Seniors

NORTH COAST

SENIORS REVOLUT!ON

Inside:

Travel Unravels

• Political Travel Perks Explained

We love to volunteer • Col and Liz Jealous

Australian Inventions • We look at some of the inventions that have changed the world

FREE

0 ’ I !

5

O L

n January 2017

Croquet on the North Coast • The game that’s taking off

Clarence Village Limited Where we make people the focus of everything we do ACCOMMODATION, LIFESTYLE AND CARE OPTIONS FOR SENIORS 1DA H=NAJ?A 3EHH=CA )P@ †† JKP BKN LNKłP†† Board with over 40 years experience in the self-care retirement village sector recognised that there was a strong demand for appropriately designed affordable retirement Village units in Grafton. Our aim is to provide good quality affordable residential facilities for seniors in the community.

Our facilities work together and provide a range of services and accommodation types to suit most seniors’ needs.

CLARENCE VILLAGE GARDENS - 299 Queen Street—New Development: 21 Two Bedroom Duplex units, including 5 units which have two bedrooms plus a study.

Stage 1 of our new Retirement Village Clarence Village Gardens was completed on the 9th September 2016 and Stage 2 is planned for completion late March 2017.

All 14 Stage 1 residents are happily living in their new units and the general consensus is that they should have done this a long time ago. ,JA KB PDA IKOP OECJEĹ‚?=JP @A?EOEKJO UKQ

will make is when to downsize and move into homes that are affordable, age appropriate and still have all the trappings of a quality unit. The opportunity exists to do this locally and we encourage people to check out their options early, rather than at the last minute which can be quite stressful.

Come and talk with the CEO Phil Belletty or our Village Manager Vicki Valja on 02 66425991 at the Joan Muir Community Centre 194 Turf Street Grafton, weekdays between 8:00 am and 2:00 pm to look at the options that are available.

CLARENCE VILLAGE SELF CARE RETIREMENT VILLAGE provides 73 individual one and two bedroom units to accommodate people who wish to live independently yet within close proximity to other residents for security and community activities. Some of our residents have been with us for over 20 years and love the community environment which provides them with friendship, security and independence.

CLARENCE VILLAGE ON QUEEN 166 Queen Street; provides one and two bedroom rental units for independent seniors.

There are no entry contributions, exit fees, long term contracts or hidden costs and an ACAT assessment is not required. Each unit comprises a lounge, bedroom with ensuite, kitchenette, fridge and microwave, and a private courtyard. Included are breakfast provisions and freshly prepared lunch and Tea, fresh bed linen and towels weekly and free use of laundry facilities. Small pets are also welcome. Within the grounds are a communal Vegetable garden, chickens and other amenities like a lawn bowls green. The fresh vegetables and herbs are used in the kitchen and the fresh eggs shared by the residents.

Our long term residents have seen considerable improvements in our level of service, this combined with an active social calendar which incudes bus trips, activities and a social club which draws a number of residents who enjoy sharing a drink with friends.

DOUGHERTY VILLA, RESIDENTIAL AGED CARE FACILITY -54 single rooms with ensuites, including 2 respite rooms, 24 hour care, a wide range of activities and all meals prepared and freshly cooked on site. Activities include therapies such as foot therapy, massage, aroma therapy, physio programs. We have 4 sets of inter -connecting rooms for partners and a 14 bed secure wing BKN OLA?EĹ‚? ?=NA Ä @AIAJPE= JAA@O We are actively planning for the future and propose to expand our facility in the next couple of years. As we progress down this path we will keep the community informed of progress.

The lifestyle and care choices we offer at all our facilities shouldn’t be left until the last minute. Our residents have found that the social atmosphere, degree of care on offer, quality facilities with the chores of daily living primarily done for you, leaves you time to enjoy life.

Check our website www.clarencevillage.com.au for more information on all the facilities.

We can be contacted by email on: clarencevillage@bigpond.com if you require more details on our facilities and rates.

Be ű XF8)

Ęåųå Ï±Ĺ F Ƶååũ

åĬÏŅĵå ƋŅ Ņƚų üĜųŸƋ åÚĜƋĜŅĹ üŅų ƖLjŎƀţ F ĘŅŞå åƴåųƼŅĹå Ę±Ú ± ƵŅĹě ÚåųüƚĬ ĘųĜŸƋĵ±Ÿ ±ĹÚ cåƵ ¥å±ų ±ĹÚ ĵ±Ĺ±čåÚ ƋŅ ŸŞåĹÚ ŸŅĵå ƋĜĵå ƵĜƋĘ ü±ĵĜĬƼ ±ĹÚ üųĜåĹÚŸţ å ʱƴå ŸŅĵå čųå±Ƌ ųå±Úě ĜĹč ĜĹ ƋĘĜŸ åÚĜƋĜŅĹØ ĜĹÏĬƚÚĜĹč ± ƵŅĹÚåųüƚĬ ŸƋŅųƼ ±ÆŅƚƋ ŅĬ ±ĹÚ XFDŽ Iå±ĬŅƚŸ ƵĘŅ ʱƴå ÆååĹ ƴŅĬƚĹƋååųĜĹč üŅų ĵ±ĹƼ Ƽå±ųŸ ±ĹÚ ƵĘŅ ±ųå ÏƚųųåĹƋĬƼ ŸåųƴĜĹč ƵĜƋĘ ƋĘåĜų ĬŅϱĬ c ƚų±Ĭ 8Ĝųå åųƴĜÏå ÆųĜč±Úå ±Ƌ ŅŅĬŅƵåƼ±Ęţ eüƋåų ųå±ÚĜĹč ƋĘåĜų ŸƋŅųƼØ ĜƋ ĵ±ĩåŸ ƼŅƚ ųå±ĬĜŸå ģƚŸƋ ĘŅƵ ĜĵŞŅųƋ±ĹƋ ƴŅĬƚĹƋååųĜĹč ĜŸ üŅų Ņƚų ÏŅĵě ĵƚĹĜƋƼ ±ĹÚ ĘŅƵ ĵ±ĹƼ ŞåŅŞĬå čĜƴå ƋĘåĜų ƋĜĵå ƋŅ ĘåĬŞĜĹč ŅƋĘåųŸţ %Ņ ƼŅƚ ƴŅĬƚĹƋååųũ {åųĘ±ŞŸ ƖLjŎƀ ÏŅƚĬÚ Æå ƼŅƚų Ƽå±ų üŅų ĵ±ĩĜĹč ± ÚĜüüåųåĹÏå ƋŅ ƋĘŅŸå ĜĹ ĹååÚţ Ęåųå ±ųå ŸŅ ĵ±ĹƼ Ņųč±ĹĜŸ±ƋĜŅĹŸ ŅƚƋ ƋĘåųå ƵĘŅ ƵŅƚĬÚ ƵåĬÏŅĵå ĵŅųå ƴŅĬƚĹƋååųŸ ƋʱƋ ƋĘåųå ųå±ĬĬƼ ĜŸ ĹŅ åƻÏƚŸå üŅų ĹŅƋ ÚŅĜĹč ŸŅĵåƋĘĜĹčţ a±ĹƼ Ņü Ņƚų ĬŅϱĬ ÏŅĵĵƚĹĜƋƼ Ņųč±ĹĜŸ±ƋĜŅĹŸ ÚŅ ± ĬŅƋ Ņü ÏʱųĜƋƼ ±ĹÚ ƴŅĬƚĹƋååų ƵŅųĩØ ų±ĜŸĜĹč ĵŅĹåƼ üŅų ƋĘŅŸå ĜĹ ĹååÚ ±ĹÚ üŅų ĵ±ĹƼ ĬŅϱĬ ŞųŅģåÏƋŸţ F ±ĵ Ÿƚųå ƼŅƚ ƵŅƚĬÚ Æå ±ÆĬå ƋŅ üĜĹÚ ±Ĺ Ņųč±ĹĜŸ±ƋĜŅĹ ƋʱƋ ƼŅƚ ÏŅƚĬÚ ÆåÏŅĵå Ş±ųƋ Ņüţ FƋ ĜŸ ±ĬŸŅ ± čųå±Ƌ Ƶ±Ƽ ƋŅ ĵååƋ ĹåƵ ŞåŅŞĬå ±ĹÚ ĵ±ĩå ĹåƵ üųĜåĹÚŸţ Ęåųå ±ųå ĵ±ĹƼ Ņųč±ĹĜŸ±ƋĜŅĹŸ ĬĜŸƋåÚ ĜĹ Ņƚų ŲIŅĜĹ FĹŲ ÏŅĬƚĵĹŸ ƵĘŅ ƵŅƚĬÚ ĬŅƴå ƋŅ ƵåĬÏŅĵå ƼŅƚ ƋŅ ƋĘåĜų čųŅƚŞţ Fü ƼŅƚų ÏŅĵĵƚĹĜƋƼ čųŅƚŞ ĜŸ ĬŅŅĩĜĹč üŅų ĵŅųå ĵåĵÆåųŸØ ŞĬå±Ÿå ŸåĹÚ ŸŅĵå ĜĹüŅųĵ±ƋĜŅĹ ±ÆŅƚƋ ƼŅƚų čųŅƚŞØ ƵʱƋ ƋĘåƼ ÚŅ ±ĹÚ ĘŅƵ ŞåŅŞĬå Ï±Ĺ ģŅĜĹ ±ĹÚ Ƶå ƵĜĬĬ Ę±ŞŞĜĬƼ ŞƚÆĬĜŸĘ ĜƋ ĜĹ Ņƚų ĹåƻƋ åÚĜƋĜŅĹţ ʱĹĩ ƼŅƚ ƋŅ ±ĬĬ ƋĘŅŸå ųå±ÚåųŸ ƵĘŅ ĬåƋ ƚŸ ĩĹŅƵ ĘŅƵ ĵƚÏĘ ƋĘåƼ åĹģŅƼ ƋĘĜŸ ŞƚÆĬĜϱƋĜŅĹţ Fü ƼŅƚ ʱƴå ŸŅĵåƋĘĜĹč ƋʱƋ ƼŅƚ ƵŅƚĬÚ ĬĜĩå ƋŅ Ÿåå ĜĹ åƴŅĬƚƋĜŅĹ ŞĬ屟å ĬåƋ ƚŸ ĩĹŅƵţ ĘååųŸ üŅų ĹŅƵţ

2' eƋƋåĹƋĜŅĹ× {ƚÆĬĜÏĜƋƼ küüĜÏåųŸ e Ęƚčå ƋʱĹĩěƼŅƚ ƋŅ ±ĬĬ ƋĘŅŸå ƵĘŅ ÏŅĹƋųĜÆƚƋå ƋĘåĜų ĹåƵŸ ƋŅ åƴŅĬƚƋĜŅĹţ å ƵåĬÏŅĵå ƼŅƚų ÏŅĵĵƚĹĜƋƼ čųŅƚŞűŸ ĹåƵŸ ±ĹÚ ŞĘŅƋŅŸţ Ņ ŸƚÆĵĜƋ ±Ĺ ±ųƋĜÏĬå ŞĬ屟å åĵ±ĜĬ ƋĘå ±ųƋĜÏĬå ±ĹÚ ŞĘŅƋŅŸ ƋŅ×× ÏŅĹƋųĜÆƚƋĜŅĹŸÄÏƴųåƴĜåƵţÏŅĵţ±ƚ eųƋĜÏĬåŸ ±ųå ƋŅ Æå ĹŅ ĬŅĹčåų ƋʱŠƐĂLj ƵŅųÚŸ ±ĹÚ ŞĜÏŸ ĵƚŸƋ Æå ±Ƌ Ĭ屟Ƌ ĉLjLjĩÆ ĜĹ ŸĜDŽåţ Fü ƼŅƚ ÚŅ ĹŅƋ ƵĜŸĘ ƋŅ ʱƴå ÏŅĹƋ±ÏƋ ÚåƋ±ĜĬŸ ĜĹÏĬƚÚåÚ ƵĜƋĘ ƼŅƚų ĹåƵŸØ ŞĬ屟å ĬåƋ ƚŸ ĩĹŅƵţ Fü ƼŅƚ ųåŧƚĜųå ± ųåĵĜĹÚåųØ ŞĬå±Ÿå ŸåĹÚ ±Ĺ åĵ±ĜĬ ƋŅ ƋĘå ±ÚÚų域 ±ÆŅƴå ųåŧƚåŸƋĜĹč ±Ĺ åĵ±ĜĬţ Fü ƼŅƚ ʱƴå ±ĹƼ ŧƚåųĜåŸØ ŞĬ屟å ÏŅĹƋ±ÏƋ XƼĹÚ± %±ƴĜÚŸŅĹ ŅĹ ƅƅĉƅ Ŀĉƅƅţ

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

%ĜÚ ƼŅƚ ĩĹŅƵũ 7KH EUDLQ LV PDGH XS RI SHU FHQW ZDWHU /HW V KRSH LWV ILOWHUHG

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

``ÀiÃÃ\Ê1 ÌÊ{É£Ê > ÀÌÀ>`iÀÊ À Ûi]Ê9> L>Ê Õà iÃÃÊ*>À * i\ÊÊÊ äÓÊÈÈ{ÈÊ {ÈÈ >Ý\ÊÊ äÓÊÈÈ{ÈÊ { ä 7iL\ÊÊ ÜÜÜ°VÛÀiÛ iÜ°V °>Õ > \ÊÊ Ã> iÃJVÛÀiÛ iÜ°V °>Õ

How far is too far?

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

ʱƋ Ĝü ƼŅƚ ʱƴå ĹŅ ŞŅƵåų ƵĘåĹ ƼŅƚ ±ųå ŅĹ ƋĘå ųŅ±Úũ :KHQ \RX UH RQ WKH URDG \RX GRQ W DOZD\V KDYH DFFHVV WR SRZHU 7KLV LV ZKHUH D SRUWDEOH EDWWHU\ RSHUDWHG DODUP FORFN IURP 0DFKRXVH LV SHUIHFW IRU WUDYHOOLQJ 7KH\ UH VXSHU FRRO UDWK HU UHWUR ZLWK D IOLSGDWH FRXQWHU HYHU\WKLQJ ROG LV QHZ DJDLQ DQG VR PRGHUDWHO\ SULFHG XQGHU LQF JVW DQG SRVWDJH $YDLODEOH LQ :KLWH DQG %ODFN

%DWWHULHV H[WUD %X\ RQOLQH ZZZ PDFKRXVH FRP DX DQG FKHFN RXW D KRVW RI RWKHU ZRQGHUIXO LWHPV

Fc kc) k8 Ɛ Xk U

7KH WRQJXH LV WKH VWURQJHVW PXVFOH LQ WKH KXPDQ ERG\ QR ZRQGHU ZRPHQ FDQ WDON VR PXFK

ŅĹčų±ƋƚĬ±ƋĜŅĹŸ

BåĬĬŅú

'XH WR WKH RYHUZKHOPLQJ UHVSRQVH ZH KDG WR RXU ODVW FRPSHWLWLRQ 0$&+286( KDYH JHQHURXVO\ JLYHQ 5HYROXWLRQ DQRWKHU EDWWHU\ RSHUDWHG DODUP FORFNV WR JLYHDZD\ 7R HQWHU WR ZLQ RQH RI WKH FORFNV DOO \RX KDYH WR GR LV WHOO XV ZKR VXSSOLHG WKH FORFNV IRU RXU JLYHDZD\ 6HQG \RXU HQWU\ HQWLWOHG µ&ORFNV &RPS¶ WR (PDLO FRQWULEXWLRQV#FYUHYLHZ FRP DX 3RVW 1RUWK &RDVW 6HQLRUV 5HYROXWLRQ 32 %R[ <DPED 16: ,QFOXGH \RXU QDPH DQG SRVWDO DGGUHVV GHWDLOV DQG SKRQH QXPEHU 7KH ZLQQHU ZLOO EH GUDZQ RQ 0DUFK DQG QRWLILHG E\ SKRQH HPDLO )LUVW FRUUHFW HQWULHV GUDZQ ZLQV 1R FRUUHVSRQGHQFH ZLOO EH HQWHUHG LQWR

X±ƚčĘƋåų ĜŸ ƋĘå ÆåŸƋ ĵåÚĜÏĜĹå So this old man goes to the doctor and the doctor says, “You’re test results came back and I’m afraid I have some bad news.

You have Cancer and you have Alzheimers”. The old man says, “That ain’t so bad, at least I don’t have Cancer!”

i iÀ> Ê > >}iÀ Ê >ââ Ìi ` Ì À Þ `>Ê >Û `Ã

"I finally came to the conclusion that a good, reliable set of bowels is worth more to man than any quantity of brains."

- Josh Billings "I'm not bald, I'm just taller than my hair."

- ĬĜƴå eĹÚåųŸŅĹ

À>« VÊ ià } iÀà ,iLiVV>Ê- Ì

iÊ }Ì Þ `>Ê >Û `Ã

-> iÃÊ ÃÕ Ì> ÌÃ À> Ê ÜÃiÌÌ

iÊ ÜÃiÌÌ Õ`iÊ ÞiÀÃÊ Ài> >Ê ÞÌ i

*ÕL Ã i`ÊLÞÊ Õâ >}ÃÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊ*À Ìi`ÊLÞÊ > Àv>ÝÊ i` > Disclaimer: The information contained in this publication is given in good faith. This publication should not be used or relied on as a substitute for detailed professional advice or used as a basis for formulating important lifestyle

North Coast Seniors

decisions.

To the maximum extent permitted by law, Auzmags accepts no liability for loss or damage arising as a result of any person acting in reliance on information contained in this publication.

Auzmags is not responsible for views or comments contained in advertisements. Therefore, it is the advertisers or their agency’s responsibility to ensure the content and claims in their advertisements are not in breach of the Trade Practices Act.

Copyright. All material including graphic design, editorial content, photography and advertising appearing in this magazine is copyright restricted and may not be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher or from persons holding copyright for specific feature articles.

Revolution - January 2017

3

NEWS

North Coast Seniors - Revolution Pick up points

North Coast Seniors - Revolution is distributed throughout the northern rivers region from Tweed Heads through to Sawtell and Bellingen. Below is a list of some of the major pick up points:

Alstonville

Goonellabah

Terry White Chemists Scooters and Mobility Alstonville Newsagency Alstonville Bowling Club Federal Hotel

RSL Lifecare Goonellabah Pharmacy Caltex Woolworths Goonellabah NSW Community Healthcare Lismore Workers Sports Club

Ballina Ballina Bowling & Recreation Club Ballina Golf Course Ballina RSL Bowling Club Ballina Information Centre

Iluka Iluka IGA Iluka Bowls Club

Brunswick Heads

Kyogle

Visitor Information Centre Community Centre/MOW

Kyogle Bowling Club Kyogle Council Kyogle Golf Course

Byron Bay North Coast Holiday Parks Discovery Holiday Parks Byron Bay Byron Holiday Park Byron Bay Services Club Byron Bay Information Centre Byron West Shopping Centre

Casino Casino Visitor Information Centre RVC Casino RSM Club The Whiddon Group Casino Golf Club

Coffs Harbour/Coast Park Beach Bowls Club Coffs Harbour Ex-Services C.ex Coffs Coffs Harbour Information Centre Park Beach Plaza Park Beach Holiday Park North Coast Holiday Parks Bananacoast Caravan Park Corindi Beach Caravan Park Darlington Park Lorakeet (Woolgoolga) Emerald Beach Caravan Park Emerald Beach General Store Moonee Beach Shopping Centre Sapphire Beach Holiday Park Beachstone Café Pacific Bay Resort Aanuka Opal Cove Resort Nautilus

Coraki Coraki Golf Club

Dorrigo Lookout Mountain Retreat Dorrigo Information Centre Dorrigo Neighbourhood Centre

Evans Head Woodburn Evans Head RSL Evans Head Bowling Club

Grafton Sth Grafton Bowling Club Grafton District Golf Club Sth Grafton RSL Grafton Shoppinworld Grafton

4

Lismore Lismore City Bowls Club Lismore Heights Bowling Club East Lismore Bowling Club Lismore Workers Golf Club South Lismore Bowling Club Lismore Information Centre Lismore Shopping Square Lismore Base Hospital St Vincents

Jackadgery Gap, Gwydir Highway maintenance Roads and Maritime Services is starting essential maintenance work on the the Gwydir Highway at Jackadgery Gap, about 37 kilometres west of Grafton.

This work involves stabilising the slopes and resurfacing a 1.75 kilometre section of the highway.

Slope stabilisation work has started and will be carried out between 7am and 6pm on weekdays.

Work will involve removing trees and excavating the westbound slope and is expected to take six weeks to complete, weather permitting.

Road resurfacing work which involves removing part of the road surface, placing new material, resealing and linemarking will be carried out by Clarence Valley Council on behalf of Roads and Maritime.

This work is scheduled to start in mid-March and is expected to take about 12 weeks to complete, weather permitting.

Lane closures and a reduced 40 km/h speed limit will be in place.

Motorists are advised to follow the direction of traffic controllers, signs and keep to the reduced speed limits.

Roads and Maritime thanks motorists for their patience while this important work is carried out.

For the latest traffic information visit www.livetraffic.com, download the Live Traffic App or call the Transport Management Centre on 132 701.

Tweed library opens doors at temporary civic centre sites Two temporary library sites have opened at the Tweed Heads Civic and Cultural Centre, to ensure services and resources continue to be available to the community during the Tweed Heads Library upgrade.

Richmond Tweed Library (RTRL) opened the doors of its temporary site, for pick-ups of reservations, returns and to browse part of the Tweed Heads Library collection.

In addition, the library is now operating in Council’s Tweed Heads Administration Office in Brett Street to continue access to computers, newspapers, printing and copying, and to provide a casual reading area.

The reservations service continues to be available, including online and phone bookings. Free wi-fi services are available in and around the popup library and temporary collection site.

The eight-month project to expand and improve the library will create a bigger, more versatile and user-friendly community facility.

Children’s activities are being temporarily relocated to Council’s Community Centre at Tweed South. Children’s library materials will be provided from Council’s Community Centre during scheduled Storytime and Baby Bounce sessions.

For further information, visit www.tweed.nsw. gov.au/Library or the Richmond Tweed Regional Library website, www.rtrl.nsw.gov.au.

Maclean Maclean & District Bowling Club Maclean Golf Club Maclean-Lower Clarence Services Club Maclean Information Centre SPAR Maclean

Northern Rivers U3A

Mullumbimby Byronshire Council Mullum Ex Services Club

Murwillumbah Visitor Information Tweed Regional Museum Tweed Regional Gallery M'Bah Services Club Murwillumbah Golf Club

Tweed Heads Tweed Hospital Tweed Skin Cancer Clinic Twin Towns Tweed Heads Bowling Club Visitor Information Terry White Chemist

Woodburn & Broadwater Broadwater stop over tourist park BP Service Station Broadwater Our Daily Bread Woodburn 24/7 Take Away

Yamba & Iluka Yamba Bowling Club Yamba Golf & Country Club Yamba Shopping Fair Treelands Drive Community Centre

Woolgoolga Woolgoolga Seniors Centre C.ex Woolgoolga Woolgoolga Diggers Amcal Chemist mist

January 2017 - Revolution

Northern Rivers U3A will hold its AGM on March 28 and all committee positions will become vacant.

I invite all members to consider nominating themselves or an-other member to fill these vacancies.

Nomination forms are available on our web site http:// www.u3anriv.org.au or on request from our secretary. If you are interested in any of these positions please don't hesitate to talk with me or any of the committee members for more detail and descriptions of your preferred role.

To remain a vibrant, interesting and healthy organisation we must look to the future and bring new people and ideas into our management committee.

On a bright note Secretary Pat MacLaren-Smith has been nominated by the NSW Government as one of the State’s ‘Hidden Treasures’ in recognition of her

work as a volunteer. Pat of course was awarded Life Membership of U3A NR( Lismore) earlier this year in recognition of her work for our organisation. - David Parkinson, President Vale our U3A NR founder, Don Kinsey - Graeme Eggins OUR U3A’s founding President, Don Kinsey AM, died at his home on Queensland’s Magnetic Island on October 28. He was 81. Don led the original steering committee that launched U3A Northern Rivers at a public meeting in March 1994.

More than 100 people signed up that first day. Subsequently members elected Don as the first U3A NR President, a post he held for three years.

Don’s dry humour, intelligence and high standards were vital to the birth and continual success of not only our U3A but also other U3As around Australia. Many long-stand-

ing U3A members and friends, his wife Barbara and his children Catherine, Bill and Anne, mourn him.

Una (Brown) Hunter was recognized by the Photography Group for her contributions and achievements, at their last meeting of the year.

U3A Northern Rivers has a reciprocal arrangement with U3A Ballina/Byron. Members of either U3A may attend classes or events without additional membership fees.

Where class places are limited, preference is given to members of the U3A offering the class.

To check out the classes Ballina/ Byron are offering visit: www.ballinabyron.u3anet.org.au We look forward to a great 2017 and welcome new members. For more information contact Secretary, Pat MacLaren-Smith on 6622 7408 or email maclaren-smith@bigpond.com

North Coast Seniors

NEWS

Kingscliff foreshore revitalisation begins A $21.8 million project to protect and enhance the Kingscliff central foreshore has commenced.

Tweed construction company SEE Civil has been engaged as the project contractor and has begun preparations for the three-stage project, which will construct a more permanent seawall, upgrade and reduce the size of the Kingscliff Beach Holiday Park and construct a new Kingscliff Central Park.

A series of coastal hazard studies that started in 2000 identified a more permanent rock wall was necessary to protect the Cudgen Headland Surf Life Saving Club, Kingscliff Beach Holiday Park, Kingscliff Beach Bowls Club and nearby roads, private property and other infrastructure from erosion and other coastal processes.

“The sea wall, holiday park upgrade and central park all link together as pieces of a puzzle to protect and further build upon one of the jewels of the Tweed Coast,” Council’s Director Community and Natural Resources, Tracey Stinson, said.

“The Federal Government’s very

welcome announcement in December 2015, that it would provide $9.81 million through the National Stronger Regions Fund, was the final piece to bring it all together and enable the project to go ahead.”

Tweed Coast Holiday Parks Trust is contributing $7.5 million and Council is providing $3.5 million to the project, which is scheduled to start after the summer school holidays – to minimise the impact on Kingscliff’s valuable holiday tourism – and is expected to take 18 months to complete.

Kingscliff Beach Holiday Park will close temporarily during the upgrade.

Fencing will be erected around the entire foreshore revitalisation site from 1 February, so preparation works can begin. Construction work is scheduled to start on 13 February, beginning with Stage 1 to construct the sea wall.

Council and the contractors are implementing a number of measures to minimise the effects of dust and other impacts on residents and businesses throughout the construction period.

NEW SOUNDTRAIL BRINGS NIMBIN HISTORY TO LIFE Lismore City Council recently launched a Nimbin Soundtrail to give visitors and tourists a unique window into the history, culture and people of the village.

The Nimbin Soundtrail is an immersive audio experience that enables visitors to learn about Nimbin both pre and post-Aquarius Festival through their smartphone or iPad. Tourists are are able to download the app for free from the Nimbin Visitor Information Centre and the GPS technology will guide them to 18 ‘story sites’ throughout Nimbin village.

Created by audio documentary producer Jeanti St Clair, the Nimbin Soundtrail includes stories, music, anecdotes and historic photos that bring to life the fascinating story of Nimbin.

“In our technology savvy world, the Nimbin Soundtrail is a great way for tourists to download the kind of historical and cultural information they want straight to their devices,” Lismore City Council Visitor Services Coordinator Andrew Walker said.

Andrew said that for the tens of thousands of people who visit Nimbin each

year, the history of the village and how the Aquarius movement began holds great interest.

“Visitors come to visit Nimbin from halfway across the world. That’s because Nimbin has a history unlike any other place,” he said.

“It was a certain time and a certain political mood that birthed the Aquarius Festival and attracted an influx of university students and hippies that wanted to live differently.

“Many locals were shocked by the newcomers’ nudity and free-living lifestyle but appreciated the new energy and the money that came to Nimbin. After the festival, a few intrepid souls stayed on to continue the Aquarian dream and sow the seeds for today’s innovative and sustainable community.

“From Dreamtime to farming time to Aquarius time, the Nimbin Soundtrail is a sonic journey through the heart of Australia’s most famous alternative lifestyle destination.”

To access the Nimbin Soundtrail download the ‘Soundtrails’ app for iPhone or Android and look for Northern Rivers or visit www.visitnimbin.com.au.

New Casino New visitor centres open at Events in the Riverside Coffs Harbour Richmond Valley Markets come to the area every year, is Visitors to the Coffs Coast will going to be a real plus for tourism be greeted by more locals than The Casino Riverside Markets locally. ever before with at least three are growing! will be held every fourth Sunday “In addition, we’ll be seeing the new visitor centres open at popRichmond Valley Council has launched a new events guide and invites visitors and locals to discover what the beautiful Richmond Valley has on offer.

With more than 60 big events occurring annually, the quarterly program outlines a selection of activities which should not be missed when visiting the region or planning your weekend.

The new guides are printed and distributed across the Valley and can be found in local Visitor Information Centres, libraries and shops. If you haven't managed to grab a copy, contact Council on 6660 300 or e-mail council@richmondvalley.nsw.gov.au

MACLEAN

of the month, from 9am to 2.30pm.

Event organisers of the Casino Riverside Market and are planning to offer a big range of arts, crafts, clothing and food by the edge of the Richmond River. McAuliffe Park will be home to lots of market stalls selling local and imported handcrafts, and food and beverage vendors. The Casino Riverside Markets will be the perfect destination to find special gifts for someone you love, or just to treat yourself to a relaxing day by the river.

TAXI

SERVICES

6645 4777

Travel in our air-conditioned vehicles with trained drivers in A1 safety & comfort

> Providing all your transport needs servicing the Clarence Coast > 24 hour booking service meeting planes, trains and buses > Taxi Transport Subsidy Vouchers accepted > Cab Charge Vouchers accepted > Veteran Affairs Transport Services provided

North Coast Seniors

ular visitor locations throughout Coffs Harbour.

“There’s nothing better than being greeted by a smiling, knowledgeable local if you’re somewhere new and want help with accommodation or activity ideas,” said Coffs Harbour Mayor, Councillor Denise Knight.

“Going from one visitor information centre in Coffs Harbour itself to at least three at Dolphin Marine Magic, Park Beach Plaza and Coffs Central, places that already see a huge number of the visitors who

introduction of visitor hubs in more locations, as well as ‘ambassadors’ – staff in places like cafés, service stations, restaurants and driving taxis - who will be specially trained to provide free, helpful advice for visitors. Volunteers will also be staffing pop-up visitor centres at major events. It’s going to be fantastic.”

The changes follow the adoption

by Council last year of a new, multi-faceted tourism strategy developed by the industry-led Destination Coffs Coast Committee (DCCC).

WATO’S FISH BISTRO & TAKEAWAY GOLDEN OLDIE $10 SPECIAL 2 x trawl whiting, 2 x calamari, 1 x garlic prawn, 1 x crumbed prawn, 1 x potato scallop, cup chips, tartare

Alfresco Dining & Takeaway

We use homebrew for our beer batters and make our own tartare sauce, dressings, salsa’s and sauerkrauts.

We source FRESH and LOCAL produce for our menu and have GLUTEN FREE options.

4 Wooli St, Yamba Ph: 6646 8880 NEAR THE CALYPSO CARAVAN PARK

Revolution - January 2017

5

OUR COMMUNITY

GRAFTON PROBUS CLUB INC Friendship, fellowship, and fun are the foundations on which Probus is built and therefore we invite active senior members of the community to participate in the many and varied activities of our club.

Come and join us for morning tea, and listen to an interesting guest speaker, when we hold our monthly meeting at 10am on the 3rd Thursday of the month at the South Grafton

Services Club in Wharf Street South Grafton.

We also meet for a social mid-day lunch on the 1st Tuesday of the month at a local venue.

Our members enjoyed their last meeting for 2016 in a jovial atmosphere at the Christmas luncheon that had been prepared and served by the staff of the Lawrence Tavern.

The meal was beautiful and the entertainment provided by David and Joanne was enjoyed by

all members present and some of the other guests at the Tavern.

The first Mid-day luncheon for 2017 will be held at the Australian Hotel on Tuesday, February 7 with the first meeting of the year following on Thursday, February 16 at The South Grafton Services Club in Wharf Street, South Grafton at 10.00am.

For further information phone our Secretary on 6642 5160.

Discover a world of antiques and collectables There is nothing better than spending an afternoon hunting for old wares and finding an absolute treasure.

Ludo and Swagman’s Oldwares, located in the historical town of Ulmarra has a huge collection of antiques, vintage and retro collectables, bric-a-brac and clothing. It is a must go-to for anyone interested in antiques and memorabilia.

Ludo and Simon of Ludo & Swagman’s Oldwares have 50 years of combined experience in the antique industry and are able to assist you with

CWA comes to the rescue

finding that perfect piece.

They are more than happy to share their extensive knowledge.

Ludo & Swagman’s also buy oldwares, so if you are downsizing, moving or are finalising a deceased estate, then it is certainly worth giving them a call.

Ludo & Swagman are open 7 days from 9am until 4.30pm and they definitely should be on your list of places to visit whilst holidaying in the Clarence Valley.

Call in and see them today.

Ludo & Swagman’s OLDWARES Always Buying for Cash Anywhere on the North Coast Deceased Estates | Downsizers | Farmyard Estates Country Estates | Over 50yrs Combined Experience Email: ludogayko@gmail.com

21c Pacific Highway (10km North of Grafton)

ULMARRA 66 444 080 0402 044 601 or 0403 071 121

The Ballina SES unit controller on the left, Gerry Burnage with colleague Graham Cork with CWA Ballina branch members who hosted a morning tea at the Ballina SES headquarters.

The Country Women's Association, Ballina branch, hosted a morning tea at the SES Ballina headquarters recently.

The branch donated rechargeable heavy duty power tools used during rescues. The reciprocating saw can cut through glass, metal, and wood. It is used during storm damage and is able to cut through windscreens and car panels at accidents. The drill, also heavy duty can remove roofing screws in seconds.

Three sets of this equipment were

donated, one for each response unit.

The crew was very grateful, especially as the CWA ladies took scones for morning tea. The crew didn't think they could compete with our reputation for baking.

If you would like to help make a difference in our community, please come along and join us. We meet every Wednesday from 9am till 12noon in our CWA rooms, 236 River Street, Ballina or phone Lyn on 0404034654 for more details.

Regain the freedom of your home Simple, safe and stylish, Acorn Stairlifts give people the chance to enjoy their own homes once again.

• For straight or curved staircases • Indoor and outdoor lifts • Free home assessment • Fast installation

FREE DVD Guide to Stairlifts!

1800 528 247

CALL NOW FOR YOUR FREE BROCHURE & QUOTATION

6

January 2017 - Revolution

North Coast Seniors

OUR COMMUNITY

ILUKA CWA BRANCH

Whether your downsizing now that the kids have left home, are looking at updating your home's decor or simply need a new piece to brighten a room, before you buy anything, it is well worth taking a look at the range and quality of furniture at Alstonville Furniture Company, which is located in The Old Butter Factory, at Alstonville.

The Old Butter Factory provides a beautiful backdrop to the large range of furniture on display where you will find new, modern, traditional and recycled pieces for every room in your home. The showroom is stylishly presented giving you the opportunity to see how various items and styles can work together.

Alstonville Furniture Company specialises in Australian made products providing you with the option of having pieces custom made to suit your needs. Most of their lounges are Australian made allowing you to choose from many different materials and patterns and adjust the size of the piece to fit your room and decor perfectly.

Knowing how important choosing the right furniture for your home is, the staff are more than happy to spend time ensuring your final choice is functional, comfortable and will suit your lifestyle and budget. The staff keeps abreast of all the latest trends in the furniture industry so are able to help you achieve the style that you are looking for whether it be modern, contemporary or traditional.

Whether you want to mix and match or customise to suit your needs you can tailor a look that is perfect for your home.

Call in and see the friendly staff at Alstonville Furniture Company or call them on 02 6628 6212.

They are open Monday to Friday from 8.30am - 5pm, Saturdays from 9am - 4pm and closed Sundays and public holidays. The Old Butter Factory is located at 3 Lismore Road, Alstonville.

This is truly a showroom worth taking the drive to see.

Welcome to the New Year everyone.

We had our Christmas break up Sedgers Reef on the bay.

Our Land cookery officer Dorothy Nolan celebrated her birthday on the same day, we all wished her a Happy Birthday. Our littlest member Amy joined us too.

We are sorry to say, we have had to say goodbye to a few long time members this year. Lynette Hughes who has moved to Bribie Island to retire with her husband, we wish them both a very happy long retirement.

Eleanor Hoskins, our CWA long time secretary, and publicity officer has left to spend more time traveling with her husband. We would like to thank Elle for all your hard work and time over the years for CWA. Your shoes are going to be very hard to fit.

Very much appreciated by us all. We wish you well and safe travels.

What a great morning we all had at the Community Hall for the Iluka Public School Presentations. What a good job the school captains and prefects did introducing everyone onto the stage with great enthusiasm and pride.

There were many donations given to help the school and the children. Our own CWA

Alstonville Furniture Co. The Old Butter Factory

5 Lismore Rd Alstonville 6628 6212 www.alstonvillefurnitureco.com.au North Coast Seniors

President Marcia Hunter was very proud to present our award from CWA. Our award was for resilience.

The awards went to Sharlett Doyle and Paige Schember.

Congratulations to you both, keep up the good work, we wish you both well in your future schooling.

CWA Ladies would like to thank the Independent Seniors and Ratepayers for printing our little reports in your newsletters.

We held our first meeting last week. We are ready for the New Year ahead.

Anyone wishing to join us in the New Year for handicraft work is most welcome to

come on Friday mornings at 9am. Alternatively, just a Knit and Natter! Our rooms are adjacent to Iluka Soldiers War Memorial Hall in Charles Street. The History Museum is also open.

Wishing everyone a Safe and Happy New year from us all at CWA. Margaret Dorrell

We wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be beaten on LA Z BOY prices!

CVIŠ170125

Is your furniture looking a little tired?

WEEKLY WE W EEKLY DELIV DELIVERY SERVICE RVICE AVAILA AVAILABLE ABLE FROM GRAFTON TO TWEED HEADS Revolution - January 2017

7

OUR COMMUNITY CWA Maclean Branch members have been very busy over the past few months especially with Christmas celebrations which we shared with a group of young people who are regulars at the Green Room centre for people with disabilities. The young people were thrilled to be invited and presented the members with chocolates. Renovations for the entrance ramp and the toilets are completed and our next big renovation will be the kitchen, which needs structural changes as well as a completely new fit out. Luckily, we have been successful with a grant to assist but many thousands of dollars are still needed. So we have had some fundraising activities. The latest event was on Saturday 7 January when the Maclean CWA Rooms were a welcome rest stop for many of the Maclean MacMarket shoppers who enjoyed traditional

FAR NORTH COAST CWA

Maclean CWA

Top left: CWA Maclean Christmas gathering on the new verandah.

Left: Maclean CWA busy in the kitchen.

Above: Maclean CWA President finishing touches to Christmas table.

Yamba Seniors

ments were also available.

The ladies of the CWA even went so far as to ‘dog sit’ pooches at the door as their owners browsed the stalls in the community hall.

Winner of the raffle prize was Jacquie Strudwick.

The CWA supports the far north coast community as well as women and children in our Pacific region. If you would like to know more about the work of this wonderful organisation – or would like to join – please visit the CWA website: www.cwaofnsw.org.au or visit the CWA Far North Coast Group facebook page.

4 Stanley St, MACLEAN Ph: 6645 2500

Lifestyle Comforts and Home Aid ‘for your mobility, fitness and home aid needs’

www.lifestylecomforts.com.au

January 2017 - Revolution

What is Yamba Seniors about?

We are a group of over 50`s folk who come together for talks, fun, social mornings and outings… if we get the numbers.

We meet once a month at the Yamba Bowling Club on the last Friday and sometimes we have guest speakers, trading table and raffles, and if we think letters should be sent to give our point of view we have discussions about it.

We have a meeting on the last Wednesday of June (before our birthday luncheon) and November (before our Christmas luncheon). On the 1st Wednesday of the month we meet at the Yamba Bowling Club for a social morning of carpet bowls (names in at 9am to make up teams), cost $4 and Hoi at 9.15am, cost $3.50 and something for the table as a prize, we have morning tea and biscuits.

On Mother’s Day some of us go to Iluka by ferry for lunch.

We get picked up at the wharf by bus and taken to where we are booked (at Iluka) and then taken back again to the ferry (at our own expense) for lunch and

Grafton CWA

The sea breezes were a welcome relief for the women of the Far North Coast Country Women’s Association of NSW when they held their market at the Kingscliff Community Hall on Saturday.

The annual CWA market is a much-anticipated event for holiday makers and the Kingscliff community who came out and showed their support for the hard working FNC Group.

There were mouth-watering homebaked cakes on sale that literally ‘went like hotcakes’, homemade preserves, handicrafts, a wide variety of books and a White Elephant Stall. Light refresh-

8

Devonshire teas and freshly made sandwiches with bottomless cups of tea.

There were also plenty of bargains to buy with lots of jams, pickles, homemade cakes, plants, wonderful old treasures and a vast array of plants for sale.

All money raised will go towards the new kitchen. Future community events include a talk on flying foxes and an accredited first aid course in February, International Women’s Day lunch in March and a Poets’ Breakfast in conjunction with the Highland Gathering in April.

Women who are interested in joining CWA are welcome to come and join in our monthly social mornings held at 40 River St. Maclean at 9.30 am on the second Wednesday of each month starting 8 February. You can contact President Leonie on 0402 821 491 for further information.

drinks, it is always a good day out.

If I can get the numbers I will work out trips, but we must have at least 20 people to keep trips at a fair price. Some of the trips we can think about are Twin Towns for a show and lunch (cost to be work out), mini golf at the club and then lunch at own expense, a trip to Dorrigo or Lake Ainsworth for a look around and picnic lunch, a trip to Casino for a look around and lunch. As well, some of us go to the Dean Doyle Show at Yamba Bowling Club (there are normally four day shows and three night show a year). In October there is a combined seniors get together where all the different groups from around the area come for lunch, this year Maclean Seniors are organising it.

Well I think I have given you a good idea about our group.

It only costs $5 to be a member and we hope to see old and new members at our first meeting on Friday, January 27. If interest and you want to know more about us ring me (Janette) on 6646 8262 after 4pm.

Grafton Country Women's Association meet on the third Friday of each month at 9.30am in our rooms in Duke Street Grafton. Our first meeting for the year will be on 10th February. New members would be made very welcome. Our handicraft friendship mornings are held on the second and fourth Mondays from 9.30 am.

Anyone wishing to join us can come along for a chat and morning tea.

We are holding our second annual fashion parade and morning tea for Ovarian Cancer Research at the Masonic Hall on 7th March. Our guest speakers will focus on women's health issues.

North Coast Seniors

OUR COMMUNITY

Clarence Care + Support 2017 is a time of change for community services and in line with this Clarence Valley Council Care and Support Services are changing their name and logo.

‘This new name is modern and shows we are a provider of community services throughout northern NSW’, said Kerry Little, Manager of the new look service.

‘Our logo has been designed by a local artist, Yohanna Dent, who has taken the colours of the Valley and then the meaning of our name, care and support. The with a flower with a heart in the middle really does show what our service means to our staff and customers’, she added.

Clarence Care and Support is an independent and not for profit organisation that enables individuals and families to achieve a lifestyle of their choice. Every individual that connects with Clarence Care and Support is looking for the assistance they need to enrich their lives.

The services we provide help them

Join In Woolgoolga Red Cross

Phone: 02 6654 8369 Email: jujujackson@bigpond.com

Tweed Valley Cake Decorators Contact: Sharyn Hagen Ph: 07 5590 4003 or Francis 02 6672 4061

Brunswick Valley Scrabble Club Tuesday 1pm-4pm Brunswick Heads Bowling Club Cost: $3 (includes tea & coffee) Ph: Barbara Hancock 0479 183 183

live and choose their lifestyle and remain living in their community.

We are here. We are here to listen.

We are here to act. We are here to help. We are here for you. We will create a care plan that suits each individual’s and family’s needs.

Clarence Care and Support has been helping people in the Clarence Valley and throughout the northern NSW area since 1994. We know our area, our people, and our services.

Our services are provided by staff who will work to provide quality and caring individual supports whether in the home or in the community. This is part of the vision and purpose of Clarence Care and Support; to deliver the highest

quality community care services to enable all people to live a lifestyle of their choice.

Our staff receives extensive training and education to ensure we have confident, experienced and knowledgeable people to match with individual needs. This also allows Clarence Care and Support to be an inclusive service for all in the community who may need support.

Clarence Care and Support is committed to enablement, community development and quality services for the aged and people living with a disability. We are proud our service is accredited for aged care service provision as well as a registered NDIS service provider.

Rotary Club of Maclean Inc.

Thursday 6:30pm Maclean Bowling Club, 1A McLachlan St Maclean - Ph: 6645 4732

Sing Australia

Every Tuesday Time: 7pm - 9pm Kentwell Community Centre Ph: 0412 660 472 A national singing program established in 1985 by Colin Slater OAM to encourage more Australians to sing. It is welcoming of all voices. There are no auditions.

There is no need to be able to read music, have experience or be able to sing in parts. Lots of fun for anyone who wants to sing.

Ph: (02) 6645 3669 2IÀFHV LQ Maclean & Grafton Working with the communities of the Far North Coast

• Home Care Package Provider • Registered NDIS Provider • Community and In Home Support • Living Skills • Social Support • Private Services CVI©SEN0117

• Domestic Assistance • Lawn Services • Meals on Wheels

North Coast Seniors

Revolution - January 2017

9

FEATURE

COME IN SPINNER

...by the Scriptic Scribbler

Travel Unravels: Political travel perks explained There’s been a lot in the news lately about our politicians' travel allowances. They say knowledge is power, so in this edition of Reverse Spin, I've cut through the spin for you to bring this report which sets out to clarify how the system works in layman’s terms.

The word on the quadrangle is that the (unofficial) 2016 Travel Rort Olympics is wrapping up with a bang!

We're kicking off the new year by setting the bar high, as the last 6 months of travel rort expenditure comes in from the Polliewood contenders to be evaluated by the Parliamentary Payola, Expenditure, Recompense and Kickback Settlements (PERKS) Committee.

Committee Chairman and Principal Evaluator Sebastian Tottenham, more generally known around Parliamentary corridors as Skittles, or Sir TotEmUp, is training up an off-sider to help with the mammoth task of evaluating and remunerating the Polliewood pollies' claims for travel and electoral expenses.

The successful young pup Skittles chose to help was given the job because of his apparent sheep-dog-like abilities to slink around a mob quietly, then make his presence felt by rounding them up neatly before they got a chance to break out. Now, Skittles must imbue Hugo Fox with the finer details of the PERKS Committee rules, or more particularly, guidelines for self-regulation.

Sir TotEmUp explains PMP: We have a Policy Management Protocol (PMP) whereby we evaluate on a number of key markers, the PERKS Criteria, or PC, which doesn't mean Politically Correct, by the way. The most effective PC is the soft leverage provided by pollies to our committee.

For example, the Foreign Minister may go to a polo match or the Minister for Finance to an AFL Grand Final or Cabinet to a New Year's Eve party ... Of course, when they believe it's a legitimate taxpayer-funded expense claim, they would invite you or me to go along too, just to ensure all is above board.

Hugo Fox: When is a polo match

10

January 2017 - Revolution

important to the Foreign Minister?

How do we assess that?

Sir TotEmUp: Eaaaasy, Son. They might watch Argentina play Brazil, which is an international event requiring the utmost diplomacy and goodwill particularly with regard to any dirty little foreign affairs which may preoccupy them during the course of the tournament. You might query them hiring a horse, though, particularly if they don't ride, or aren't competing in the tournament. However, they may justify it by saying it was necessary to reinforce or endorse some aspect of Foreign Policy, like getting it from the horse's mouth, in which case, it would be allowable.

Hugo Fox: Well, lots of MaladMinisters and Shadowy Ministers have had free tickets to AFL grand finals – did they all have tickets for you or this department?

Sir TotEmUp: No, Son, there's a limit to what we can oversee due to funding constraints – we can't go to every grand prix or whoopee, Hugo. You need to self-regulate where Polliewood is concerned – sort of calculate to emulate pollies sense of community impunity, or political pomposity, if you like, in relation to self-regulation.

Hugo Fox: Might I ask Sir …. if they self-regulate, why do we exist?

Sir TotEmUp: Hugo, wash your mouth out!!! It's important the public SEES there is an oversight committee.

Hugo Fox: Oh, I see …. we oversee the oversights when pollies make them, in order to overwrite and expedite their claims?

Sir TotEmUp: You've got it Hugo.

Smart fellow! It's Polliewood's birthright, after all, and no-one is more entitled than your very own Ozzie pollie.

Hugo Fox: Well, how could we assess the AFL grand final as a credible tax-payer expense? Tax-payers, after all, have to pay for themselves if they want to go. How would a Minister of Finance justify an AFL Grand Final?

Sir TotEmUp: Huuugo, think about it for a while! When did Treasury last balance the budget?

Hugo Fox: Ummm.

Sir TotEmUp: Exactly! They know

how to keep score at Grand Finals, so a Minister could claim it as a STUDY trip!

Hugo Fox: Soooo, what about Travel. When Shorten Curly (Leader of the Opposition) uses an RAAF plane to fly around the countryside … should we expect an invitation lest he rorts the system?

Sir TotEmUp: Wellllllllll …...

Hugo Fox: Did Shorten Curly invite you on any trips?

Sir TotEmUp: Errr, No, he mostly took his wife, and a poliday for three might have been a crowd...

Hugo Fox: And how does Lussan Sey justify all her travel claims – in 2015 it was half a million dollars ….... a few years of that would be enough to pay cash for an apartment!

Sir TotEmUp: Let's look at this case Son – it's a good one to learn on.

PollieRules are: Self-adulation before self-regulation; then creative, manipulative initiatives to avoid investigative speculation which might result in calls for legislative or regulative instruments.

These are the foundations to successful PERKS claims, along with the fact current legislation is open to interpretation.

Hugo Fox: And no-one wants to interpret it?

Sir TotEmUp: Right. Lussan played by the rules, probably along these lines, give or take some. She wants to do New Year's Eve on the Gold Coast. Well, who wouldn't?

Simple! Get an invitation from a party supporter, accept, and book the best travel and accommodation … or charter a plane. Don't worry about peak times, or getting a good deal or discount for the taxpayer …. just book the best.

Egos, remember Hugo, must be fed.

Her partner might tell her about an auction, which she keeps hush-hush but wrangles an invite to something health-related, and “just happens” to be up there half an hour before the auction so she can “inspect” the property.

Anyone else would have to get a few things checked out first, like ensure the body corporate doesn't consist of a whole lot of pollies, or it's cycloneproof, no rats in the roof etc. But she has a secret weapon – her partner,

who, forgetting to tell her, might have had time to do all that in the preceding weeks, and anyway, it could have belonged to a Liberal donor, so they wouldn't take her to the cleaners, would they?

Hugo Fox: But what about air-charter? Nearly $170,000 in 2015 – could be anything in 2016! Can we justify that?

Sir TotEmUp: We certainly can – she's saving the tax-payer on commercial flights because she's a pilot herself!

If she had to do enough hours to keep her commercial license up, even she wouldn't be able to afford it. But, having the tax-payers fund it for you is brilliant – and she's saving them too!

Totally legitimate.

Hugo Fox: What about her “Family Travel” costs – it was over $26,000 in 2015: might be double in 2016? Talk about Polidays! I'd like to spend that much taking my wife to upmarket pubs and tourist spots. Her travelling allowance was about $70k in addition to the previous acquisition. I could nearly go round the world on that!

Sir TotEmUp: You'll soon lose that ability Hugo, when you work here for a while.

Hugo Fox: B-b-but, that's not counting her domestic fares and car costs to get around the countryside or her overseas travel. And who flashes up a rented office for a couple of hundred thousand?

Sir TotEmUp: “Listen Hugo”, says the wily old Skittles. “This is doing your head in. Settle down for a while, and we'll go over this again sometime.

The Chief Bull has moved to put someone else in the position, so that'll take the heat off.

The electorate forgets after a while, you know ….. and the architect of their downfall (usually “theyselves”), has to take a hair-cut, redirect, feign introspect, ride out the after-effect (preferably not in a helicopter), and wait a while till someone else trips up before they can be recycled back into favour or the Ministry. This is the gospel according to PERKS re the law or torts, sports, escorts, passports, rorts and snorts.”

North Coast Seniors

OUR COMMUNITY

Grafton Senior Citizens Grafton Senior Citizens ended 2016 with their annual Christmas luncheon, attended by around 90 members, plus guests, entertainers and Grafton High School special class, who served the meal, which was prepared by Meals on Wheels. During the day, nonagenarian, Evelyn Milen, was surprised to be named Senior Citizens of Year. Each activity group also had their own smaller breakup party.

In December, at the final meeting of the year, a $3,000 cheque was presented to Westpac Rescue Helicopter, from monies raised by members, on the trading table and special competitions.

This brings total donated to helicopter in last ten years to $16,000. Other charities have also benefited in that time.

After a recess over Festive Season, carpet bowls, craft, mah-jong and euchre resume activities in mid-January, with remainder to resume early to mid-February.

Housie and hoi are both struggling for numbers, and we hope more attend in 2017. Both are easy; housie (or bingo) mark off called numbers and hoi turn over called cards. There are even small grocery prizes for winners of each game. Numbers at other activities are satisfactory, but more will always be welcome.

Join In Coffs Harbour Writers Group

Westpac helicopter presentation. From left : Jane Wayland (Westpac), Bob Pearce (Seniors President), Nina De Amyand (Seniors fund raiser).

The first bus trip for the year is a weekend in March to Newcastle, for Daniel O'Donnell show, and all purchased tickets have been sold, but reserves will be noted.

The major trip, seven days to Toowoomba, Lockyer Valley and Brisbane in August has just four spare seats.

First day trip to Aranyani Bison Farm near Whiporie on 21 April, will go on sale at meeting on 14 February, at 10.30am. Other day trips will go on sale progressively during the year. Other special activities, including an open day, soup day, pie and pea day, winter Christmas, Singalong morning and annual Christmas luncheon, are also planned.

For existing members, annual fees are due in February. Prospective new members can attend the meeting, as above, or enquire with Publicity Officer, Sandra Connelly, phone 6642 7720.

The Coffs Harbour Writers Group was established in 1986 for the purpose of creating an environment of support and encouragement for aspiring writers.

We offer members and visitors the opportunity to meet twice a month, including social coffee mornings, where we share writing skills, and assist writers with improving their skills through the provision of learning opportunities in the form of seminars, workshops, study groups and guest speakers.

Meeting Venues: 1st Wednesday of the month, Cex Club, Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour Time: 10:30am to 12:30 (if attending a workshop 1:30 to 3:30pm) Social Coffee Mornings: 3rd Thursday of the month, members homes or at nominated venues Time: 10:00am to 12:00 noon Members Fees: $20 per Annum plus $2 monthly meeting fee Workshop/ Seminar Fees: $7.50 / Members; $7.50 / Non Members $15.00 Contact Details: Social / Publicity Officer, Janice: ph 66528518; Website: www.cofffsharbourwriters. com

Grafton U3A Inc

Presentation of books to Woolgoolga Library by U3A

Coffs Harbour/Woolgoolga University of the Third Age (U3A), has over 500 members and 40 different courses being held each week. It has 30 enthusiastic tutors who are all volunteers.

Woolgoolga has eight courses conducted by five tutors. All classes are held in the comfortable meeting room at Woolgoolga library where staff make members feel at home in the friendly atmosphere.

Each year U3A makes a gift of several books on Australian history to the library as a mark of our appreciation. The 2016 year ended with the U3A Australian History class making the presentation.

U3A President, John Clingan and Australian History Tutor , John Imrie presented the books to Librarian Surinder Kaur.

“Caps and Veils” written by Valerie Griffthis is a fine book about the history of Sydney Hospital and its Matrons from 1788 to today. The author is a nurse who trained at the hospital and gives a wonderful account of the people who worked there.

“Australians Vol.3” by Thomas Keneally . This is the third book telling the history of Australia by Australia’s best historian. It is called “Eureka to Flappers” and is a book that should be read by every Aussie.

U3A will be offering many new courses at Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga in 2017. Our Australian History and Poetry class will be held on Fridays at the library and new members are always welcome. john.imrie26@gmail.com 6649 2456

Are you interested in advertising in...

North Coast Seniors

REVOLUT!ON

For advertising information please contact one of our advertising representatives on 02 66469466 or email sales@cvreview.com.au North Coast Seniors

A community organisation with State, National and International alliances dedicated to the sharing of our knowledge, skills and experience in a friendly convivial way.

Rooms 8/9 Dougherty House 46 Prince St, Grafton Ph: 6642-4615 Email: info@grafton.u3anet.org.au www.grafton.u3anet.org.au

Coffs Harbour Chess Club c/- Coffs Harbour Catholic Recreation and Sports Club, 59 High Street COFFS HARBOUR Phone: 6656 1404

Grafton Probus Club Inc Every 3rd Thursday at 10am South Grafton Services Club Men and women meet for monthly social activities.

Ph: Secretary 66425160 for further information.

ATTENTION: PUBLICITY OFFICERS! If you are interested in submitting an article about your group and its activities, please email Lynda at contributions@cvreview.com.au to express your interest.

Revolution - January 2017

11

OUR COMMUNITY

A passion for curtains

Old, But Not Spooky Freemasonry the world’s oldest fraternal organisation for men.

Its origins are obscured by the passage of time, but it evolved from the ancient stonemasons’ guilds of Europe.

By the sixteenth century, it seems clear that the fraternity began to accept men from other professions into their Lodges – ‘speculative’ rather than ‘operative’ masons.

The first Grand Lodge was formed by three small London Lodges in 1717. In NSW, Freemasonry was first practiced by the early settlers under warrants of authority from England, Scotland or Ireland.

A Grand Lodge, or governing body, for NSW, was finally

created in 1888.

Masonry is now an international organisation, united by the values of brotherly love, benevolence, and honesty.

Masons have generally kept a low profile in their communities, which gradually led to the popular misconception that the Lodge is some sort of ‘secret society.’

This, of course, is a myth. Local Freemasons now frequently run open days to showcase what they do and explain the layout of their quaint and historic buildings.

Many people have heard something about handshakes and passwords, but these are simply left over from the days when travelling builders had no photo

licenses to prove their skills.

One of the great things about Masonry is its inclusiveness.

Men from all walks of society, regardless of their income, ethnicity or religious background are welcome to join.

Freemasonry is old, but it isn’t irrelevant or spooky! It is committed to helping others and inspiring men to be at their best.

And, very likely, there is a Lodge near you.

In the next issue of Revolution, we’ll look at what happens at a Masonic meeting.

2B1 ASK1 Interested in Freemasonry?

Have you ever wondered about Freemasonry what it is and what its members do?

Do you ever think about joining but don’t know any masons or what =?PEKJ PK P=GA PK òJ@ KQP IKNA If you are interested and would like to talk with a mason, contact Grand Lodge who will put you in touch with a member from your suburb who can give answers and advice.

Grand Lodge is available Monday to Friday on (02) 9284 2800 or you can contact us by email at info@masons.org.au 12

January 2017 - Revolution

A Happy New Year from Barbara.

So many choices make deciding on colours, styles, and fabrics daunting. The right curtains or blinds set the tone and mood of all rooms. They play a big part in your decor style, and you want to make the correct choice. And that’s why it’s a good idea to call on Compass Curtains, the professional window furnisher.

Compass Curtains was established 20 years ago this year by Barbara and Peter Wilson and they have successfully grown and diversified the business to the “perfect solution” for windows it is today.

Barbara is passionate about window furnishings. She has a flair with fabric textures, colours and suitability that will be perfect. So you can be sure that she will offer solutions that are totally unique to your home.

“Offering services such as free measure and quotes, free loan curtains where needed while the project is being made, interest-free vendor finance for approved clients, and a Senior Citizen Discount of 15%, we believe Compass Curtains leads in the window furnishing retail industry,” says Barbara.

Peter, an accountant adds “The interest-free vendor finance has been tailored to be as convenient as possible. We understand that for some clients it is easier to manage a monthly payment, and we can negotiate.”

Special Offer for “Seniors” – 15% Discount off window furnishings retail prices on orders to 28 February 2017

Window furnishings have changed over the years, and Barbara has kept up to date with product improvements and innovations. She is a font of helpful hints, suggestions, and ideas and listens to what you want. She guarantees a finish you will love!

Compass Curtains cover all the North Coast and do travel further afield if needed. Compass Curtains is the name you can trust for all your window furnishings.

And they will offer products to suit your budget.

Call Barbara on 0435 954 212 to arrange a measure and quote. Compass will always point you in the right direction.

UPDATE YOUR HOME NEW YEAR...

NEW CURTAINS!

Interest Free Finance available to approved applicants!

15% DISCOUNT FOR SENIORS* • Personal, In-home Service • Since 1997 delighted customers have come back for MORE! • The choice for those who Value QUALITY! • FREE measure and quote including colour & design advice ... and while you wait for Creating your new curtains... dow abulous win r f • FREE loan curtains nishings fo *Offer valid till 28.02.17

fur ars. over 18 ye

COMPASS CURTAINS Phone Barbara

CVI©161012

Freemasonry –

0435 954 212 compassinteriors@optusnet.com.au North Coast Seniors

OUR COMMUNITY

Want to make friends and make a difference?

Kyogle CWA wants you!

The Kyogle Evening Branch of the CWA is preparing for another big year, after smashing some major goals over the past 12 months.

Local women of all ages are invited to come along and be part of our friendly, fun and diverse group and to help have a positive influence in our community.

So what does the Kyogle CWA actually do? Besides being active and visible members of Australia's largest women's lobby group, in 2016 we also: • Received funding to send ten of our members to a chainsaw operations course • Raised $465 for Kyogle Youth Ventures from our fun Clothes Swap event in February • Donated $800 to the CWA Drought fund • Donated $100 each to Royal Flying Doctors Service and CWA Medical Research fund (researching Lyme’s disease and Lyme-like disease in Australia) • Donated $200 to the Kyogle Community Kitchen • Donated various amounts of money to assist local young people to attend events such as state sporting competitions • Donated many bags of

personal care items to various organisations in Kyogle and Lismore to assist people fleeing domestic violence • Joined forces with Lions, Rotary, and Quota to help with the clearing sale in April • Hosted a domestic violence forum in April • Contributed travel costs to assist Mikaela Kerwin to travel to Sydney to meet with Royal Lifesaving Australia, in relation to her Water Awareness and Danger Education program • Volunteered at Primex, with money raised used for educational grants for local students • Heard many guest speakers at our meetings, covering subjects including mindfulness, medicinal cannabis, money matters, the Rural Fire Service • Baked 'Democracy Cakes' for all young people who enrolled to vote in time for the federal election in July (and one for someone not so young who finally enrolled!)

• Provided a rest tent at the Kyogle Show • Were visited by Ruth Shanks, president of the Associated Country Women of the World, who chaired our AGM and loved our branch • Sponsored an award

Laugh a little “Always read stuff that will make you look intelligent if you die in the middle of it."

- P.J.O'Rouke

Join In Tweed Valley Cake Decorators Contact: Sharyn Hagen Ph: 07 5590 4003 or Francis 02 6672 4061 Very Gentle Exercise Class Tweed Community Health Centre Tweed Heads Hospital Mondays 8.30am.

Contact: Deb 0414 644 064

Kyogle CWA AGM 2016

at Kyogle High School’s end of year assembly (Congratulations Holly Walters) • Spoke out against changes to Kyogle Hospital shifts • Had loads of fun, gained national media coverage, and raised awareness of the CWA by entering the Kyogle demolition derby • Hosted the start of 16 Days of Activism against violence • Rocky Horror fundraiser, dividing funds between the Care Connections’ Square Pegs program and Kyogle Youth Ventures • Learnt and shared new skills in art, craft, and cookery • Attended social functions and cultural events, enjoyed our monthly meetings and we had a fantastic Christmas Party!

The CWA is more than

just tea and scones and we would love to share it with you. Meetings are held at the KMI Super Room on the first Tuesday of the month at 6 pm, where new members, wine, and cheese are always welcome! We also get together for an informal 'social night' on the fourth Thursday of the month. You can come along to a few meetings before signing up, and membership is $41 a year.

For more information check out the Facebook page ‘CWA Kyogle Evening Branch’ or email kyoglecwaevening@ gmail.com For more information please contact: CWA Kyogle Evening Branch President, Odette Nettleton at odette@ nettleton.com.au or Jasmine Phillips, Kyogle CWA Publicity Officer on 0401 302 371.

What's a 'Sunshine Club'?

The Sunshine Clubs are for small groups of people over 65 that live in the community that are socially isolated, frail aged or people living with a dementia related illness.

They are to promote social interaction, community inclusion and support to continue living independently in the community.

Grafton Sunshine Clubs operate every

TAXI TRANSPORT SUBSIDY SCHEME

Wednesday- Thursday and Friday from 10 Kemp St, Grafton.

There are also Sunshine Clubs in Glenreagh, Yamba and Broomshead that operate weekly or fortnightly For more information contact: Nina McConnell, Lifestyle Coordinator, Over 65's, at nmcconnell@cranes.org.au, visit www.cranes.org.au or phone 6642 7257.

Brunswick Valley Scrabble Club Tuesday 1pm-4pm Brunswick Heads Bowling Club Cost: $4 (includes tea & coffee) Ph: Barbara Hancock 6685 0409 Grafton U3A Inc A community organisation with State, National and International alliances dedicated to the sharing of our knowledge, skills and experience in a friendly convivial way.

Rooms 8/9 Dougherty House, 46 Prince St, Grafton Ph: 6642-4615 Email: info@grafton.u3anet.org. au www.grafton.u3anet.org.au Coffs Seniors Computer Club Our Coffs Seniors Computer Club meets Monday mornings (except public holidays) at the Cavanbah Centre; near cnr of Harbour Drive & Earl St; Coffs Harbour.

Mondays: 8.30 coffee; 9.00am - 11:30am Lessons Ph: 0407 581 898 Email: cscompclub@gmail. com Quota International of Lower Clarence Meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday of the month in the Board Room at Yamba Bowling Club, Wooli St, Yamba Ph: 6645 1270

ONE CALL ... DOES IT ALL

If eligible you can travel for 1/2 PRICE*

WE SPECIALISE IN:

Lawn and acreage mowing

Domestic &

DON’T FORGET THE MAXI TAXI Carries up to 10 passengers & wheel chair accessible vehicle

VETERAN’S SERVICES Yamba Taxis & Hire Car Services are NSW Government

YAMBA TAXIS Meeting planes, trains and buses

PHONE: 6645 5888

*People with permanent disabilities: aged immobile, deaf, confined to a wheelchair, ambulatory problems, vision impaired, epilepsy, Intellectual or other functional disabilities. For further information and application forms phone Yamba Taxis on 6645 5888

North Coast Seniors

Accredited to carry Veteran Affairs Gold & White card holders in Yamba, Iluka, and all surrounding areas. TRAVEL FREE OF CHARGE TO HEALTH AND MEDICAL RELATED APPOINTMENTS, AS AUTHORISED. “Be transported in fully licenced chauefer driven luxury vehicles”.

For more information and booking details contact 6645 5888

NO JOB... TOO BIG • NO JOB... TOO SMALL

Mills Boys Property Maintenance Call Gary - 0475 456 830 - 6646 7313

Commercial Cleaning Hedge Trimming and Rubbish Removal Gutter Cleaning and Gutter Guard Installs House Washing and Water Blasting Window Cleaning Move In/Move Out Services Chimney Sweeping No Obligation FREE Quotes ©CVI

Revolution - January 2017

13

FEATURE

We love to volunteer

Col and Liz Jealous have been volunteering for many years, more often than not together. Their voluntary work has sometimes exposed the married couple to immediate danger or the aftermath of natural disasters.

They presently serve with their local NSW Rural Fire Service brigade at Wooloweyah. They tell Geoff Helisma about their experiences.

I

n January 2011, Col and Liz Jealous spent “about 18 days all together” helping the victims of the floods that swept down the Toowoomba range through the Lockyer Valley and onwards to Brisbane, killing people and devastating the region. For their service, performed with the Red Cross, they were each awarded the National Emergency Medal.

On January 11, the day after parts of Toowoomba and, subsequently, Murphy’s Creek and Grantham at the base of the range were devastated, Col and Liz received a phone call. It was an unusual present for Liz, who was celebrating her birthday, but they were soon driving to Brisbane. “We got a call from Red Cross to say, ‘don’t come into Brisbane, the streets are flooded you can’t get in here, find a motel and put yourselves up overnight’,” says Liz. “The next morning we got a phone call to be at the Brisbane airport by 8.30am. So for my birthday I got a trip to Brisbane, I got a meal out in the local pub and a night in a motel.

“Then, to top it off, the next day when we got to the airport, they put us on the emergency service helicopter and flew us out to the Ipswich.”

Col says seeing Brisbane inundated by floodwater from above was a memorable experience, but what awaited them upon their arrival was unforgettable.

“As we came into Ipswich showground, because

14

January 2017 - Revolution

Ipswich was underwater, we landed on the bottom paddock in the sopping water; and about 100 of the 3,000 people there were cheering as we climbed out of the helicopter. We spent the next five days looking after those people with registrations, accommodation, clothing and food.”

“Red Cross Emergency Services goes out and sets up evacuation centres,” says Liz. “They set up recovery centres, too, to help with paperwork and all that sort of stuff after the event, when people have been able to go home. The recovery centres have in them all sorts of things. Lifeline is there if you have a need to talk to somebody. We have to have very broad shoulders in those sorts of situations; because we hear a lot of stories which you have to dump pretty quickly, otherwise you go mental. Lifeline is there and the Department of Primary Industries, Centrelink; they’re all there to help these people get over what they’ve been through.”

“When the Governor General arrived, she came in through the backdoor of the kitchen and served the evacuees their meals and there was no hullabaloo. She was just someone behind the counter in a Salvation Army tabard.”

Liz turns to Col asks: “It was really rewarding work wasn’t it!?”

Col: “Yeah. When the flood goes down you get set up into teams and you go out and walk the streets to make sure people are alright.”

Liz has fond memories of former Governor General Quentin Bryce’s humble visit to the evacuation centre. “She arrived a day after the Prime

Minister [Julia Gillard] when it was a big hullaballoo and media and all that rubbish,” she says. “When the Governor General arrived, she came in through the backdoor of the kitchen and served the evacuees their meals and there was no hullabaloo. She was just someone behind the counter in a Salvation Army tabard. I walked over and looked, and I looked again, and I said to a fellow standing there, who was probably [her security]: ‘I can’t resist this I have to take a photo.’ He said: ‘Go ahead, she would love it.’

When she finished serving, she just grabbed [a meal] and went down and had lunch with the evacuees.

There was no obvious security.”

Unfortunately, Liz and Col’s memory of that moment will remain just that – the picture has been lost. “I’m still spitting chips that I have lost those photos,” says Liz. Col: “We don’t know what happened to them.”

Liz: “I’m sure I had them on a USB stick and I was sure I had them on a disk; both. I have searched high and low and they’re just not there. I am so, so dirty about that. We took 50 or 60 photos out of the helicopter going to Ipswich ... I’ve lost the lot of them. There’s one photo surviving that whole trip: Col and I working on the registration desk.”

Col and Liz rate themselves as “serial volunteers who just can’t help themselves” and say that there are “quite a lot of married couples volunteering together in Rural Fire Service (RFS) brigades – and getting along – and quite a few in the Clarence Valley”.

“For years we’ve volunteered in different organisations together. We were in the Australian Army Cadet Corp and Liz was in charge of a unit when we were living in Queensland for about four or five years,” says Col, “and we volunteered for the SES (state emergency service) and Red Cross emergency services.”

North Coast Seniors

FEATURE In September 2009, there were numerous fires burning in the Clarence Valley. Col and Liz were working in Pillar Valley with the Red Cross, preparing meals for the RFS fire fighters. After talking with some of the fire fighters, Liz says, “we decided that they were a nice bunch of people so we’d join them as caterers; by the end of 2010 we joined the brigade. We came out here [to Wooloweyah] on the open day. Col was talking to the captain here and he said they were having trouble getting people throughout the week because everybody works. So he decided to help them out, and I just said, ‘oh well if you’re going I may as well, too’.

“I thought, ‘I am never ever going to a fire, I’ll do whatever else I can but I am never, ever going to a fire. It didn’t last long.”

Col: “The first fire call we got, she went. Most of our fires we’ve been out together, most of the time it’s just been the two of us side by side.”

Since joining Wooloweyah RFS, says Col, who was employed as a fireman at Wollongong in the 1970s and ’80s, “there haven’t been any hairy situations, but we’ve had some hot fires. The first one, which was a big fire at Purgatory Creek, frightened Liz a little bit.”

Liz: “That wasn’t the first one.”

Col: “It wasn’t? It was the first big one.”

Liz: “It was the first time I’d been put on property protection of a house; trying to remember all of the things that you have to do and making sure that it happened before the fire got there. I was full of trepidation wondering what was coming, because I hadn’t seen it before.”

Liz’s immediate fear was short lived, though.

“We got the place all set up waiting for the fire and just before it hit the wind changed and it went along the road instead of jumping the road as we’d feared it would do.”

Col: “Once it went past that house we just jumped in the truck and went to the next one.

We just chased that fire all day until about nine o’clock that night. It was a big, tree top fire: [Liz had] never seen one before. The truck was parked on the other side of the road and you couldn’t touch it, it was that hot.” They have attended many fires since then, Liz says.

Col is 66 and Liz, 65: isn’t that a little old to be out fighting fires?

“You don’t know until you try,” says Liz. “We’ll know when it’s time to stop going out to fires; at the moment, yes we do have health issues, but nothing that’s going to stop us from doing this.”

Col is the senior deputy captain at the Wooloweyah RFS. He is also the officer in charge of the brigade’s equipment and its community engagement initiatives.

“I do catering,” says Liz. “Col drives the truck, too, and is a Rural Fires Service Association (RFSA) representative. I’m the brigade’s secretary and drive the little fire truck, as well as being an RFSA rep and community engagement person.

“The RFSA was set up to help the RFS out with financial stuff. It raises funds and represents the volunteers. Every year it has a grant system where you put in an application for grant money to buy something for your brigade.”

Col: “The organisation goes to the government and says ‘hey listen, we’ve had these problems’. The RFS bosses sit down and...”

Liz: “They help sort out any problems that the brigades are having.”

How do you cope with the heat when fighting fires?

Liz: “While you’re actually fighting a fire, I guess it’s the adrenaline rush. You don’t know how hot it

North Coast Seniors

Join In RSL Tibouchina Day Club

Every Wednesday Time: 10am - 2pm Alstonville Community Centre Ph: 6624 2714 The RSL Tibouchina Day Club offers social activities and opportunities for older people, mostly still living at home in the Alstonville/Wollongbar area, who are unable to attend more active programs offered in their local community.

The RSL Day Club provides exercises, interesting activities, community involvement, speakers & leisure activities to the elderly in the region.

Toastmasters International Murwillumbah: Contact: Hazel 0427 281 819 Or Christine Halloran (02) 6672 5531 Tweed Valley: Contact: Steve (02) 6676 4641 Twin Towns: Contact: Bub (02) 6674 1636

Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre Gardening, Men’s Shed, craft, creative writing, technology centre, Stretch Your Mind , gentle exercise, U3A activities, volunteering.

Contact: (02) 6676 4555.

The Silver Smiths (top) Col (above) Col and Liz work ing on the registration desk at Ipswich during the 2011 floods

is.”

Col: “You don’t notice the heat.”

“With all the training the RFS gives you it’s sort of in here,” says Liz, pointing to her head. “You just drink water to keep up the hydration side of it.

And they have what they call snack packs, a couple of packet of chips, a couple of lollies or something for energy; and they are now starting to put in little tubes of electrolytes that they encourage you to stick into your water to keep up your salts. The RFS duty of care is brilliant; they really look after the troops. You’re encouraged through your training right from the start to keep an eye on your fellow crew members.”

Col: “Look after one another.”

Liz: “Make sure that they are drinking water and if you see or don’t think that they’re drinking, it’s a case of giving them a nudge and saying get some water into you. There’s a fatigue management SOP (Standard Operating Procedures) in place now, to make sure you only work a certain amount of hours.”

Col spends a lot of his spare time at the fire shed making “sure everything’s working”; and there’s a social aspect, too. “You can be here doing something and then the next minute a couple of the boys will be driving past and see your car there and pull up,” he says. “We often end up just sitting around talking.”

Volunteering with the RFS is an important part of their togetherness. Col says that having a common interest and sharing many of their experiences means they have “more to talk about”.

“And after 45 years of marriage,” he says, “we still get on – so we must be doing something right.”

Every Wednesday Time: 5pm - 6pm Location: Kentwell Community Centre We do not sing because we are happy…we are happy because we sing!

So if you’d like to join us, come and share memories and happiness through the songs of yesteryear. We also entertain the older communities of Ballina and its surrounds. All welcome.

Contact: 02 6681 6357 or 02 6686 5663

Lennox Head Life Ball

Every Tuesday Time: 9.30am - 11.30am Lennox Commmunity Centre Contact: 0448 004 161 Life Ball is a fun, safe team ball cgame ideal for seniors and those with injuries.

Far North Coast billiards and snooker community

To join in with this fun snooker group contact: ballinasnooker@yahoo.com.au Mobile, 0447 026 443 Lismore Workers lwcsnooker@gmail.com Mobile, 0435 045 077 Casino RSM akrea@live.com.au Mobile, 0414 9958 34 Banora Snooker jackmalone@maloneglass.com Mobile, 0412 141 456

Make 2017 your year to Join in Revolution - January 2017

15

OUR COMMUNITY

A Hidden Treasure When it comes to fashion we all have our own tastes, size and styles and it is rare to find a store that caters for everyone. Clovelly Fashions is one of those stores.

Owned and operated by Bev Anderson for 41 years, Clovelly Fashions is jam packed with a huge range of unique quality ladies clothing to suit all discerning types.

Born and bred in Maclean Bev has been involved in the fashion retail industry all her life and is able to help you find exactly what you are looking for. Whether it be casual wear or something more formal, Bev is able to help you coordinate and accessorise ensuring your outfit is perfect for you.

Clovelly Fashions specializes in sizes for the fuller figure stocking clothes from size 8 through to size 26. You will find cozy knits, dresses, separates, swimwear and accessories and all at affordable prices. There is a huge range of outfits for the over 50s, including brands such as Black Pepper and Tanner Street and Bev is able to organise alterations to your garmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s length if required. Seniors receive a 10% discount on all purchases, except sale items.

Over the years, Clovelly Fashions has become a trusted name for fashionable womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clothing, where you are always able to find exactly what you are looking for.

Clovelly Fashions is open Monday to Friday 9am until 5pm and Saturdays from 9am until 1pm and is located at 32 River Street, Maclean.

They are also an agent for Ballina Dry Cleaning.

Clovelly Fashions â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of those hidden treasures you must visit next time you are in Maclean.

We pack.

We carry.

We care... and we can deliver.

There are many reasons people canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get out to shop. It can be through illness, lack of transport or sometimes as we age we become less able to do routine tasks by ourselves.

Spar Maclean have a home delivery service available to residents of Maclean, Townsend, and Gulmarrad for seniors who find it difficult to shop or do not have others to shop for them.

This service provides vital support, encouraging independence and allowing seniors to stay at home longer.

There are a couple of options available to residents.

1.

You can either do your own shopping and when you get to the checkout ask the operator to organise your groceries to be home delivered for you. This is a great service for those that find it difficult to lift bags of groceries.

Let Spar do the heavy lifting for you.

2.

Phone your order through to have the shopping service and delivery.

You will need to phone before 11am

for morning deliveries or before 3.30pm for afternoon deliveries.

You can order all your grocery requirements including chilled and frozen foods.

Make sure you have a list of everything you need for the week.

Provide as much detail as possible as this will help your shopper select the groceries that you want.

Your first delivery for the week is free and from then on each delivery will be charged at $5.

You can pay with cash or credit card.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to check out the specials in the Spar catalogue which is delivered with the Clarence Valley Independent each week.

Spar Maclean prides itself on its customer service and has won many awards over the years for its service to the community. This shopping and delivery service is just another way they are supporting their customers. You can call them on 6645 2002.

W

° s OR! O D R U O Y O T T H IG R ER IV EL WE CAN D

IE DELIVER

TANNER STREET

32 River St, Maclean Ph: 6645 2151 16 18

January 2017 - Revolution

S

Experience prize winning customer service at its best at...

4 River Street, Maclean 6645 2002 WE PACK. WE CARRY. WE CARE. North Coast Seniors

FINANCIAL/LEGAL

Plan for retirement changes in 2017

Join In Crafty Ladies Club

Cards and paper craft. 1.30pm Fridays, South Tweed Sports Club Contact: Della (07) 5513 1548

Probus

Hastings Point/Tweed Coast Monthly meetings at Tri-care, Hastings Point.

Contact: Steve (02) 6676 4641 Tweed River, meet South Tweed Sports Contact: Liz (07) 5599 3001

*BY CRAIG DAY

Many Australians will be affected by changes to legislation announced in last year’s Federal Budget so there are some new things to take into consideration in your retirement planning in 2017.

Kicking off the year, the new assets test rules for the Age Pension implemented on 1 January mean couples who have assets between $375,000 and $816,000, excluding the family home − may have had their Age Pension entitlement reduced − while couples with assets between $816,000 and $1,178,500 will no longer qualify for even a part pension. Where people have lost the Age Pension due to these changes they will continue to be eligible for both the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card and the Low Income Health Care Card.

However, the good news is that couples who have assets between $296,500 and $375,000, excluding the family home, may now qualify for the full Age Pension, depending on their income.

If your rate of Age Pension has been impacted by the asset test changes, you may need to review the income you receive from other sources to ensure you have sufficient cash flow to meet your needs.

Changes to superannuation From 1 July 2017, contribution caps will reduce. The annual cap on concessional (before-tax) superannuation contributions – taxed at 15 per cent – will decrease from the current level of $35,000 to $25,000 for those age 50 and over, and from $30,000 to $25,000 for everyone else.

The non-concessional (after-tax) contributions cap will reduce from $180,000 to $100,000 per year. This means the maximum amount of non-concessional contributions a member can make under the three year bring forward rule will reduce from $540,000 to $300,000.

From 1 July 2017 a new rule will also apply to restrict members from making any non-concessional contributions once they have accumulated more than $1.6 million in super.

Here is an example of how this will work.

Joe is approaching 65 and is looking to contribute the proceeds from the sale of an investment property into super. There is a window of opportunity for Joe to take advantage of the current non-concessional cap before the proposed changes are implemented on 1 July 2017. That is, if he takes action prior to 1 July 2017 he will be able to make non-concessional contributions of up to $540,000, but after 30 June, the most he could contribute to super would be $300,000.

If Joe already has $1.6 million in superannuation, he has a window of opportunity to take action before 30 June as from 1 July he will be restricted from making nonconcessional contributions.

Transition to Retirement Those who are thinking about a transition to retirement (TTR) pension may also need to review their positions. From 1 July 2017 super funds will need to pay tax on the income they receive from the underlying investments they use to pay these pensions. Depending on your circumstances, this may mean the benefits of a TTR pension will be reduced.

For example, under the current rules, Sarah, a 57-year-old divorcee, could use a TTR pension to

North Coast Seniors

increase the amount she salary sacrifices and then replace that lost income with her pension payments. In this case, the tax benefits Sarah receives from doing so could help her boost her super nest egg prior to retirement at age 65. However, these tax changes as well as the reductions to the concessional cap to $25,000 from 1 July 2017, may make this strategy unviable.

Nonetheless, this will very much depend on a person’s circumstances. For example, a TTR pension could still help people over age 60 to boost their retirement savings. Other benefits could include assisting repay debt quicker or to fund any income shortfall while a person is transitioning from full-time to part-time work before full retirement.

What you can do With a few months to go, there is still a window of opportunity to revisit your financial plan and to look at ways to build your savings for a comfortable retirement.

The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) says couples will need $59,236 and singles $43,184 per annum to retire comfortably.

Here are some options: 1. Focus on salary sacrificing. While you’re still working, it may be worth setting up a salary sacrifice arrangement with your employer so you can top up your super. Or if you’re already salary sacrificing, you might consider increasing the amount. Even a small increase could make a big difference down the track. 2. Make an after-tax contribution. If you receive a windfall, like a bonus or an inheritance, you might consider putting it straight into your super. These types of ‘non-concessional’ contributions currently have an annual cap of $180,000 — although this annual cap will be reduced to $100,000 from 1 July 2017.

3. Delay retirement. If the assets test changes are likely to have a serious impact on your retirement lifestyle, you might consider staying in the workforce for a few years longer, either full time or part time. This will allow you to keep growing your super. 4. Reduce your assets.

Depending on your circumstances, there may be strategies you can follow to lower the value of your assessable assets, such as ‘gifting’ money to your children or grandchildren. But before trying this kind of strategy to increase your pension entitlement, make sure you consult a professional financial adviser who can guide you through it.

If you don’t have a financial adviser, you can find one on our website: www.colonialfirststate. com.au/findaplanner *Craig Day is Executive Manager, Colonial First State FirstTech

Craig Day

Red Cross - Coffs Harbour

We meet at 9.30am on the 2nd Saturday of the month at Kimberley House (opposite Fire Station), Little Street, Coffs Harbour.

New members are most welcome.

The Coffs Harbour branch of Australian Red Cross works to promote the Fundamental Principles of the organisation : Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity and Universality.

As well as fund raising, our members and volunteers assist in the Red Cross services in the Coffs Harbour area : Hands On (in local aged care facilities), Playscheme (at the Coffs Harbour Health Campus), Telecross, Trauma Teddy, Good Start Breakfast (at Tyalla Public School) and Emergency Services.

Phone: 6651 2922 Email: trishmill@rmwebed.com.au

Brunswick Heads Environmental Groups - Dunecare

A small friendly group of locals meet monthly (2nd Sunday 9am-12pm) To regenerate the area from the river to the Surf Club. New members are very welcome.

Contact: Greg McDonald 0414 457 346 e: brunswickheadsdunecare@gmail.com

Darts Club Mullumbimby Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club Wednesday Nights 7pm Beginners Welcome Contact: Diane 02 6680 2119 Rick 02 6680 1942

Tai Chi & Qi Gong

Banora Point Community Centre Tai Chi 10am and 11.15am Fridays Contact: Margaret 0407 262 950 Qi Gong, 1pm Tuesdays, Contact: Lyn (07) 5523 2030 Murwillumbah Tai Chi Contact: Vic 0418 495 094

Our firm has been established in Ballina for over 20 years. We offer the services of an accredited property specialist and also provide competent and practical assistance in almost all areas of the law including wills, powers of attorney and appointments of guardians. We provide safe and free storage of certificate of titles, wills and other important documents.

Please don’t hesitate to call us if you need to discuss legal matters on 6681 4155 or call in to 2/130 Tamar Street, Ballina.

Email: clarissa@chuegill.com www.chuegill.com

Revolution - January 2017

17

FINANCIAL/LEGAL

Three simple steps for planning ahead Planning for your future involves spending time considering how you would like your affairs managed and how you wish to be looked after if your circumstances changed. It’s especially important to start the conversation with family or those close to you about what your future health, lifestyle and financial needs may be.

Most people know it’s important to plan ahead but don’t know where to start, are putting it off or are worried the process will be overly complicated. In fact there are only three steps to the planning ahead process – prepare a Will, make an Enduring Power of Attorney and appoint an Enduring Guardian.

Preparing a Will

By preparing a Will it allows you to decide who will receive your assets when you die. This can include large assets such as real estate as well as sentimental items you want passed onto someone you love. Most people are familiar with the need to make a Will. However, many assume a Will is all that is required when planning

ahead, when in fact it only goes part of the way. There are other documents just as important that take effect while you are still alive.

Make an Enduring Power of Attorney An Enduring Power of Attorney is an appointed person who has legal authority to act on your behalf, in relation to assets and financial affairs, should you lose the capacity to make decisions. This could include buying and selling property, paying bills, collecting rents and looking after your investments.

Appoint an Enduring Guardian

An Enduring Guardian is a substitute decision-maker of your choice, with legal authority to make health and lifestyle decisions on your behalf,

if you lose the capacity to make those decisions. Such decisions can include: • where you should live • health care you should receive • what kind of personal services you will receive • giving consent to medical or dental treatment.

An Enduring Guardianship appointment only comes into effect when you lack capacity to make decisions.

Some people have strong ideas about what sort of medical treatment they want when something happens to them down the track. If it is important to you, you can write down your wishes in an Advance Care Directive which ensures decision-makers are aware of your health care wishes.

An Enduring Power of Attorney, Enduring Guardianship and Advance Care Directive are complementary documents. They work together so that nominated people in your life can make decisions across all areas of your living situation, if you are unable to make those decisions for yourself.

It’s important for people to put plans in place while they still have capacity and can make informed

decisions.

Don’t leave it until it’s too late.

By planning ahead you take control and gain the peace of mind that you and your family will be looked after when decisions concerning health care and financial matters are required if you become incapacitated through injury, dementia, stroke, frailty or you pass away.

In cases where a person does not have planning ahead documents in place their family members or friends may need to apply to a court or tribunal to decide who will make decisions for them. This is a last resort option and can be stressful and time consuming. The opportunity to choose who you would like to act on your behalf will be lost.

The process of putting these documents in place is much easier than most people think and NSW Trustee and Guardian, or a solicitor can help you every step of the way. To find out more or book an appointment to get started call the Lismore branch on 6626 3223 or email taglismore@ tag.nsw.gov.au. Or visit our website www.tag.nsw.gov.au.

Book an appointment to Planning ahead make or update your is Planning documents easier Ahead than you think Specialist staff from our Lismore branch regularly When you appoint NSW Trustee & Guardian hold Planning Ahead Days where you can make or as your independent and impartial executor update your Will, Power of Attorney and Enduring and attorney you will benefit from our Guardianship documents in the following areas:

experience of over 100 years. Please see our

• website Coffs Harbour • Tweed Staff Headsfrom NSW for fees & charges.

• Trustee Grafton & Guardian • Tenterfield Lismore branch regularly • hold Maclean Plan Ahead Days in:

You can alsoHeads book an appointment Monday - Friday t Tweed t Maclean in our Lismore Branch, 6 Zadoc Street, Lismore.

t Grafton

t Ballina

Situations where you may want to update your Planning Ahead documents include:

Plan Ahead with us

Book now to: • marriage • separation or divorce Prepare a Will • buying or selling a house Make a Power of Attorney • retirement • welcoming children grandchildren into your family Appoint anorEnduring Guardian • a beneficiary or executor named in your Will has died Contact NSW Trustee & Guardian Lismore today on Appointments essential.

Call 02 6626 3200 02 6626 3223 or email taglismore@tag.nsw.gov.au

or visit www.tag.nsw.gov.au/willsdays For more information visit www.tag.nsw.gov.au 18

January 2017 - Revolution

North Coast Seniors

FINANCIAL/LEGAL

2017 Superannuation HAVE YOU GOT THE RIGHT CAR INSURANCE? reform LAURA CROWDEN, ISELECT

The majority of measures will commence from the 1st of July, 2017.

A summary of the reforms can be found below: • Reductions have been made to the concessional contribution cap, lowered to $25,000 a year for all parties.

• Non-concessional super contributions will be limited to $100,000 per year from 1 July 2017 compared to $180,000 presently.

• The introduction of a $1.6 million transfer balance cap has been finalised, placing limits on the amount an individual can transfer into the tax-free earnings retirement phase. The measure is also applied to death benefit income streams.

• Introduction of additional income tax rules on recipients of certain defined benefit income streams in excess of $100 000 per annum.

• Reductions have been made to the threshold at which high-income earners pay Division 293 tax on their concessional taxed contribution to superannuation to $250,000.

• Members with a total superannuation balance of less than $500,000 will be allowed to make catch-up concessional contributions from 1 July 2018.

Please note that an individual cannot have an unused concessional contributions cap amount before 1 July 2018 for the purposes of the catch-up provisions.

What this means is that the 2019/2020 financial year is the first year in which you can apply your unused concessional contributions cap amounts.

• A tax offset is now allowed where spouse income is less than $37,000.

• Allowance of a deduction for personal contributions without testing the proportion of employment income received (the 10% test).

• Introduction of a low-income superannuation tax offset to replace the low-income superannuation contribution.

• Abolishment of the anti-detriment payment.

• Removal of the tax-exempt earnings for transition to retirement income streams.

For seniors, the biggest issue may that one can have a maximum of $1.6 million in a tax-free environment. If you have an account based pension exceeding this amount, you will have to move some of the money back to your super. This means the earnings on the funds over $1.6 million will be taxed at 15% rather than being tax-free.

There is some good news for people still building their super. Additional deductable contributions over the $25,000 annual cap may be made if the total superannuation balance is less than $500,000. Individuals will be able to use their accrued unused concessional contributions cap space to make catch-up concessional contributions from 1 July 2019.

The effect of these changes will depend on individual circumstances and it’s important to consult a financial advisor This article includes factual information only and does not include general or personal financial product advice.

This is Alan.

• Public Accountants • Tax Agents • Company Auditors •Self Managed Superannuation Funds

The costliest car accident can be a matter of holding onto the wrong insurance policy

We don’t like to think about it, but the more kilometers you clock up on the road, the more likely you are to have a car accident.

For some, these accidents will amount to nothing more than a scratch on the fender while exiting a parking spot; while for others it can mean something far more serious.

Whichever end of the spectrum a car accident falls into and regardless of who’s fault it was, the first question you are likely to be asked by the other party (hopefully after “are you ok?”) is “can I get your insurance details?”

The vast majority of Australians hold some sort of car insurance policy. Even those with older, low value vehicles typically carry a third party policy to insure themselves against the potential damage caused by their vehicle to other cars. After all, it’s not uncommon for a small prang in a car park to cost thousands of dollars in repairs.

And while car insurance is definitely worthwhile, it can be costly with average premiums running at many hundreds and at times over a thousand dollars per year. When combined with ongoing costs such as registration, petrol and servicing, this can transform car ownership into a drain on your wallet.

However, while there is nothing you can do to reduce registration costs and petrol prices. There are things you can do to keep your car insurance costs at a minimum while still receiving the cover you need.

Review instead of renew: When you received your annual car insurance renewal notice you may find your annual premium has either remained the same or increased since last year. Either way, don’t take it at face value and renew on the spot. Rather take it as an opportunity to compare to make sure it’s still the best value for your needs and budget. With new policies, providers and discounts arriving in the market year on year it’s always worth shopping around.

Honesty is the best policy…literally: While for some people it can be tempting to exaggerate or understate details (such as driving history or address) on car insurance applications to bring down their premiums, these little ‘white lies’ could end up costing you big time. Any incorrect information you provided to your car insurer– whether intentionally or an honest mistake, could automatically void your policy when it comes time to claim.

Make your good driving count: If you have not had an accident for 5 years you may be eligible for a Rating 1 classification which means lower premiums. If this sounds like you, check with your current provider to see how you are classified in case you are not getting the maximum discount you are eligible for based on your driving and claims history.

Combine and save: For households with more than one car, an easy way to save money can be moving your

separate policies into a single multi-car policy. These types of policies can offer great value, and the more cars on the policy, the more you could save… plus the added bonus of less paperwork!

Look for high value, not just low price: Price is important but it’s not everything as opting for the cheapest policy may not cover what is most important to you. A good place to start is looking for a tailored seniors policy which includes all the benefits you might need when claiming. For example, if you need a car to get to work or appointments, make sure your policy gives you a hire car in the event of an accident.

Talk through your budget and requirements with a car insurance expert and they will be able to match the up with a suitable policy for your needs and budget.

Car insurance isn’t fun, its costly and you only use it under bad circumstances.

However, if you have the right policy you can ensure a car accident doesn’t snowball into a financial disaster.

About iSelect At iSelect, we get that most people find insurance, utilities and personal finance boring. But we understand that it’s really important to always get these things right.

As Australia’s life admin store, iSelect gives customers the confidence to make the right call on some of the things that matter most.

Our highly-trained experts at iSelect HQ help customers to choose and buy from thousands of available policies, products and plans. And we provide our advice at no cost to the customer.

We compare and sell some of Australia’s biggest brands but are proud to be 100% independently owned. From health and life insurance through to energy and broadband, as well as car insurance and home loans, iSelect helps Australians take care of the boring but important stuff. www.iselect. com.au

CS©161214

With a goal to strengthen and future proof the superannuation industry, the Federal Government has recently passed significant changes in the Senate, affecting superannuation.

Alan has a great accountant.

hs

Hamilton Simmons & Co

189 River Street, MACLEAN | Phone: (02) 6645 3083 | Fax: (02) 6645 4666 | email@hamiltonsimmons.com.au North Coast Seniors

Revolution - January 2017

19

FEATURE

Australia: a nation of innovation

BY JOSH MCMAHON

F

urther across the lawn, perhaps a large garden can be found, which was dug with ease thanks to a self-propelling rotary hoe. This great Aussie invention was first created in 1912, when 16-year-old Cliff Howard of Gilgandra invented a machine with rotating hoe blades on an axle that simultaneously hoed the ground and pulled the machine forward.

T

Do a little digging, and it’s extraordinary how much the innovation of Australians has shaped modern life, both here and around the world. Everywhere you turn, you’ll find Aussie invention – health, transport, kitchen and the garden –; our best and brightest have made an immense difference to our world.

W

alk into your kitchen. Look around. See that fridge keeping your food cool and fresh? This everyday item was originally conceived in Geelong in the 1850s by Aussie, James Harrison. His patented ether vapour-compression system, whereby gas was passed through a compressor to be cooled and liquefied and then circulated through refrigeration coils, is still the most widely used refrigeration system today.

This system is used not just in fridges, but also the air conditioners found in homes and offices around the world.

ake a glance back at the house, and on the roof many will find a solar hot water system. The first Aussie solar hot water system was developed by the CSIRO in 1953, by a team led by Roger N Morse.

These efficient systems, manufactured by Solarhart, can now be seen on rooftops across the world.

Take a brief stroll to the garage, and you may find an electric drill sitting on a shelf. Melbourne City Council's first electrical engineer, Arthur James Arnot, patented the world's first electric drill in 1889. It wasn't the nifty handyman-sized version in your shed, though; Arnot's drill was designed primarily for excavating oil and coal.

lowing a 1964 survey that revealed 80 per cent of Americans didn’t know how to sharpen a knife. To date, more than eight million Staysharp knives have been sold around the world, with patents and design registrations in 37 countries.

The plastic spectacle lenses you’re looking through that make everything crisp and clear – they’re thanks to the experiments of an Adelaide company in the 1950s.

S

tep outside to the garden. See that nicely mowed lawn that took just half an hour to achieve? It’s thanks to the innovation of Lawrence Hall, an Aussie boat engine builder, and Mervyn Victor Richardson, who later refined the original idea to make it a commercial success. Hall engineered a rotary blade lawn-mower to cut his parents’ lawn in 1948.

A

lso in the garage is another great Aussie icon, the ute. The utility vehicle was designed

by Lewis Brandt at the Ford Motor Company in Geelong, Victoria. The first ute rolled off the Ford production lines in 1934. The idea is said to have come from a Geelong farmer's wife who wrote to Ford in 1933, advising the need for a new sort of vehicle to take her 'to church on Sundays and pigs to market on Mondays’.

H

O

pen the fridge and you may find a cask of wine. The wine cask was created in 1965

by Thomas Angove of Renmark, South Australia.

Angove’s' original design, with a resealable spout, was replaced with a tap by the Penfolds wine company in 1972.

is 'Mowhall' had blades mounted onto a plough disc and used a kerosene tin as the petrol tank, a boat motor and a tubular steel frame. It was so heavy it took two people to move it across the lawn. Richardson saw Hall's mower demonstrated in a park in Concord, Sydney. Four years later, he made some cylinder-type mowers for his son's part time lawn-mowing business. Then he tinkered together a lightweight, cheap, prototype rotary-blade lawn-mower with a peach tin for its petrol tank and a two-stroke engine. Within two years Richardson had sold 20,000 Victa brand mowers and had already begun to export them.

A

R

ifle through the kitchen drawer and many will find a self-sharpening knife. The Staysharp knife was developed by Aussie company, Wiltshire, in 1970. This innovation was the brainchild of Melbourne design engineer, Dennis Jackson, fol-

20

January 2017 - Revolution

further glance around the yard may reveal the iconic Aussie clothesline, the Hills Hoist.

The Hills Hoist rotary clothes line, with a winding mechanism allowing the frame to be lowered and raised with ease, was developed by Lance Hill in 1945. The first Hills hoists were made right in the inventor’s Adelaide backyard, and continue to be found in yards across Australia and New Zealand.

J

ump in the ute and head off to the beach, and on the way you notice the smooth handling of the vehicle.

This is thanks to the invention of variable rack and pinion steering in 1971,

by Australian engineer, Arthur Bishop.

This technology continues to be utilised in millions of new vehicles every year.

O

nce at the beach, you look around and see dozens of faces smeared with zinc cream to protect skin from the harsh summer sun.

The zinc-oxide based cream was developed by the Fauldings pharmaceutical company in Australia in the early 1940s.

G

lance out onto the water, and you may see a catamaran slicing through the waves. The first high-speed, stable catamarans were developed in 1980

by Phillip Hercus and Robert Clifford of Incat in Tasmania.

O

ur ‘girt by sea’ nation has also excelled in yacht racing, with Ben Lexen designing the winged keel that helped team Australia II end the

North Coast Seniors

FEATURE New York Yacht Club's 132-year ownership of the America's Cup in 1983. The keel gave the yacht better steering and manoeuvrability in heavy winds.

'Most of us have no idea of our real creative height. We are much more gifted than we know. My tools help to nurture those gifts.' - Julia Cameron

I

f you then decide to head out into the surf for a swim, get caught in a rip and are being dragged out to sea, you might be saved by another two Aussie inventions that help lifesavers come to your aid: the surf life-saving reel, demonstrated for the first time at Bondi Beach on 23 December 1906 by its designer, Bondi surfer Lester Ormsby; and the surf ski, created in 1912 by Harry McLaren and his brother Jack, at Port Macquarie.

The Artists Way to Retirement

F

ollowing your rescue you’re taken to hospital for observation – a place where Aussies have led the world in life-changing innovation. The cochlear implant was developed in the 1970s, giving the gift of hearing to those who had never experienced sound.

Development began under Professor Graeme Clark at the University of Melbourne in 1970, and the first patient was fitted in 1978. The device uses an external microphone, a speech processor and a transmitter, to send sound to a receiver inside the ear. This receiver then coverts the signals into electricity, and sends them to electrodes attached to the cochlea and on to the brain through the auditory nerve system.

A

ustralia’s first ultrasound scanner was built in 1961 at the ultrasonics institute of the Department of Health, by George Kossof and David Robinson. In 1976 the ultrasound scanner was introduced into obstetrics in Australia, and has been a vital tool in monitoring pregnancy ever since.

Victa mower images supplied by www.vintagemowers.net This website is well worth a look.

I

n 1981 another health innovation was made by an Australian – Professor Colin Sullivan of Sydney University developed the Continuous Positive Airflow Pressure (CPAP) mask. The CPAP system has become the most common treatment for sleep disordered breathing. The invention was commercialised in 1989

by Australian firm ResMed, which is currently one of the world's two largest suppliers of CPAP technology.

Spray-on skin was another Aussie health breakthrough, helping severe burns victims recover more quickly and with less scarring. The treatment was developed in the early 90s by scientist Marie Stoner and plastic surgeon Dr Fiona Wood, of Perth. It is now approved for use in Australia, Europe, Mexico, Canada, and China.

Australians are also at the forefront of nanotechnology – creation of a machine so tiny it can be placed inside the body to detect drugs and viruses or diagnose genetic disorders.

A

ustralia’s contribution to health innovation is immense, and also includes: the birth of the first frozen embryo baby in Melbourne in 1984; creation of the pacemaker in 1926 at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney; and development of medications such as flu vaccinations and the cervical cancer prevention drug Gardasil, in the early 1990s.

A

tour of Australia’s extraordinary innovations would be incomplete without a visit to the airport. Powered flight itself was invented by an Australian, Lawrence Hargrave. In 1894 he invented the box kite; in November he strapped four of these together with a compressed air engine and managed to fly the five short metres that changed aviation history.

T

hen in 1958, Aussie chemist Dave Warren created the world’s first ever ‘black box’ inflight recorder, now used on millions of planes worldwide to investigate aerial incidents. The box, used to record sound during flight, is, in fact, coloured orange.

S

P

erhaps the most world-changing Aussie health invention has been the common antibiotic, penicillin. In the 1940s, Adelaide scientist, Howard Florey, developed a way for penicillin to be manufactured and processed so it could be used to treat human infections, saving millions of lives.

North Coast Seniors

uch is the extent of Aussie innovation, that the above is by no means an exhaustive list. But scratching the surface does give you an idea of how much our nation has contributed to new and exciting developments here and around the world. What other Aussie inventions do you know about?

This article was first published in Clarence Scene in February 2016.

The Artist's Way movement began more than two decades ago and has now helped millions of people around the world to discover - and recover - their creativity. Whether you want to work on a large artistic project or simply wish to experience more creativity in your life, The Artist's Way for Retirement is the perfect guide to help anyone wanting to live a more creative and vital life. It aims to dispel the 'I'm not talented enough' conditioning that holds many people back and helps you to unleash your own inner artist. Its step-by-step approach enables you to transform your life, overcome any artistic blocks you may suffer from, including limiting beliefs, fear, sabotage, jealousy and guilt, and replace them with self confidence and productivity. It helps demystify the creative process by making it a part of your daily life. Whatever your artistic leanings, this book will give you the tools you need to fulfil your dreams.

Packed with engaging, thought-provoking exercises and useful tools designed to help unlock your creative energy, this book will enable you to: • pursue creative activities with confidence, • realize the creative dreams you have been harbouring • enjoy the freedom and independence that retirement offers • bring more creative expression into your everyday life Using a range of artistic forms and styles, and devised to address and support the emotional upheaval that retirement can bring, this book will take you on remarkable and transformative creative adventures.

Julia Cameron has been an active artist for more than thirty years. She is the author of more than thirty books, both fiction and non-fiction, including bestselling works on the creative process: The Artist’s Way, Walking in this World and Finding Water. Also a novelist, playwright, songwriter and poet, she has multiple credits in theatre, film and television. During her marriage to director and actor Martin Scorsese the two collaborated on three films together.

North Coast Seniors, Revolution have three copies of Artists Way to Retirement to give away.

To win a copy you must write down in 50 words or less what you loved doing most when you were young and why. The best three entries will win a copy of Artists Way to Retirement.

Entries can be emailed to: contributions@cvreview.com. au or you can post them to: Artists Way to Retirement PO Box 367, Yamba NSW 2463.

Entries are to be received no later than March 30, 2017. Judges decision is final. No correspondence will be entered into. Entries may be published in our next edition. Only first names will be published.

Revolution - January 2017

21

HEALTH

Get a good night’s sleep for your health’s sake

Do you wake up feeling refreshed, jumping out of bed ready for the day? Or do you wake up feeling exhausted, aching and knowing that the only way you’ll get out of bed is to roll out and fall onto the floor?

How you feel when you wake up, and your health in general, can be linked to a good night’s sleep.

According to the Sleep Health Foundation, lack of sleep can lead to an increase in weight gain and anxiety, with many chronic diseases such as diabetes, stroke, and depression also linked to long-term poor sleep.

So how do we get a good night’s sleep?

Going through a wind-down routine each night before bed can help prepare your body for sleep. Turning off the TV and not using other electrical devices such as tablets or mobile phones an hour before bed and sleeping in a darkened cooler room are all things you can do to help you get a good night’s sleep.

One other major factor in how well you sleep is how good your mattress is. A worn mattress, one that doesn’t support your body properly, will leave you aching all over and waking up grumpy and tired.

You need to make sure the mattress that you are sleeping on is the best you can afford. It is recommended

that you renew your mattress every 8 years and it must be comfortable for you. Because everybody is different, and everyone sleeps differently purchasing a new mattress can be tricky.

Dallas from Gary Bryant’s Mattress Discounts in Lismore has these tips for choosing a new mattress.

It is best to try before you buy. Lay on the mattress in the position you would normally sleep in. The mattress should support your body, properly maintaining the natural alignment of your spine, and you should also be able to roll over easily.

If you have a partner, get them to lie on the mattress as well. You should not be able to feel your partner turning and you both should not end up in the centre of the bed. The right mattress will be comfortable and supportive for both of you.

Don’t try mattresses out when you are tired. After an exhausting day of shopping or golf, anything will feel comfortable.

Give your new bed a chance. You may find that you don’t sleep well for the first few nights on your new mattress. This is because you and your body will be adjusting to your new sleeping position.

Gary Bryant’s Mattress Discounts have a huge selection of beds, mattresses, and bedroom suites available.

They also stock a range of electric beds, which are perfect for those who find it difficult to get out of bed due to physical ailments.

Call in and talk to Dallas and Lisa Bryant or Grant Evans. They are there to help you find the perfect mattress for your needs. Gary Bryant's Mattress Discounts is located at 138 Dawson Street, Lismore or you can call them on 6622 0011.

Do the right thing for your health and call in and see them today.

Nourish your body properly Eating nourishing food and keeping active are the cornerstones to staying healthy over the years. For older Australians, this helps with maintaining muscle strength and a healthy weight – and having the getup and go to live life to its fullest.

As we age, we often need less energy (kilojoules) – due to being less active than in our younger years – but we still need just as many of the nutrients in food. One way to pack a punch when it comes to eating better and feeling healthier is to cook nutritious meals at home.

At home, you have control over what goes into your meal and how much you serve up, and studies suggest that people who cook at home more often have healthier overall diets.

Try these 10 tips from the Dietitians Association of Australia for healthy home cooking: 1. Stock your pantry with smart staples: Keep a good supply of shelf-stable, budget-friendly staples like legumes (kidney beans, chickpeas), pasta, rice, noodles, canned tomatoes, pesto, curry paste, tinned fruit, and vegetables. This means you’ll always have the basis of an easy home-cooked meal.

2. Balance your plate: Try this simple rule for portion perfection: ½ vegetables, ¼ good-quality carbohydrates (such as potato, pasta, and rice), and ¼ lean protein (like meat, chicken, fish, eggs or legumes).

3. Plan weekly meals: Set aside some time to organise meals in advance.

That way, you’ll be more likely to cook a healthy meal, rather than falling back on tea and toast, or a take-away meal, which more often than not will be higher in saturated fat, added sugars and added salt.

4. Stick to the perimeter of the supermarket: Stick mainly to the outside aisles of the supermarket as this is where you’ll find whole foods like vegetables and fruit, whole grain breads and cereals, meat, fish and eggs, and dairy foods.

5. Build your recipe repertoire: Not a confident cook? Learn to cook a few trusty basics – think meat and vegetable stir-fries, spaghetti bolognese, jacket potatoes to have with easy toppings, omelettes, and a roast. Once you’re confident with these, the possibilities are endless.

6. Eat more veggies: Aim to fill half of your plate with vegetables. If you find your vegetables don’t last, keep some salt-reduced canned vegetables in your pantry, or frozen varieties in your freezer. These are handy to add to stir-fries and make a great addition to soups or casseroles.

7. Make friends with the freezer: Try cooking in bulk and freezing meals.

That way, you’ve got a meal on hand when you don’t feel like cooking.

8. Make smart shortcuts: Cooking from scratch is great if you can, but look out for options like microwave brown rice, tinned rather than dried lentils, and storebought curry sauces, which may make it easier for you to cook at home.

9. Consider how you cook: Choose cooking methods that maintain the nutrients in food, such as microwaving vegetables or grilling, stir-frying or baking meats, and poultry.

10. Cook for friends and family.

Organising regular catch-ups with friends or family is important in staying connected. And what better to catch up than over a healthy meal you’ve cooked yourself!

Check out the ‘Cheap and Cheerful’ recipes from the Dietitians Association of Australia’s ‘Smart Eating for You’ webpages and download The Thrifty Cookbook. You’ll also find tips for eating well when you’re older on the Government’s Eat for Health website.

And for more tailored advice and support on healthy eating, contact an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) – they’re the experts in food and nutrition.

Visit the ‘Find an Accredited Practising Dietitian’ section of the Dietitians Association of Australia website at www. daa.asn.au to find an APD in your area.

ADJUSTABLE LIFT UP ELECTRIC BEDS We have 8 Different models available...

Ranging in size from Single, King Single, Double, Queen, Split Queen, King and Split King They can be used at Home or in Aged Care or with Home Care Help as the Bed lifts up to waist height for easy making like a Hospital Bed.

138 DAWSON ST,

RECLINER LIFT CHAIRS NOW IN STOCK

LISMORE PH: 6622 0011 www.gbmd.com.au 22

January 2017 - Revolution

1 0 Y R WA R R A & TGA CERTIF NT Y ICATE

Various models, colours & fabric or leather available

North Coast Seniors

HEALTH

Lentil Patties Preparation time: 20 minutes Serves: 6 Ingredients: 1 cup sweet potato, chopped, cooked and mashed (180g raw) 2 cups canned cooked green or brown lentils, drained 1 onion, finely grated 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 carrot, grated 1 cup wholemeal breadcrumbs 1 egg, lightly beaten 1/4 cup sesame seeds 1/4 cup sunflower seeds 1 tbs salt-reduced tomato sauce (optional) 2 tbs flat-leaf parsley, chopped olive oil spray 4 tbs light tzatziki large green salad, to serve Method: 1. If using the oven to cook the patties, preheat to 180°C and line an oven tray with baking paper.

2. In a bowl, combine mashed, sweet potato, lentils, onion, garlic, carrot, breadcrumbs, egg, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, tomato sauce (if using) and parsley.

With wet hands, shape into 12 even-sized patties.

3. If baking patties: Arrange on prepared tray and spray with oil. Bake for 40 minutes, turning over halfway through cooking. If frying patties: Spray a large, heavybased frying pan with oil. Cook patties over medium heat for 5 minutes each side, or until crisp and golden and cooked through.

4. Serve with tzatziki and green salad.

Sweet Chilli and Cashew Stir fry Preparation time: 25 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain brown rice 850g packet frozen mixed stir-fry vegies 1 tablespoon peanut oil 500g chicken tenderloins, thickly sliced diagonally 1/3 cup oyster sauce 1/3 cup sweet chilli sauce 1/4 cup raw unsalted cashews, toasted Method: 1. Bring a large saucepan of water to the boil. Add brown rice; cook according to packet instructions until tender. Drain rice, cover to keep warm and set aside.

2. Meanwhile, bring another large saucepan of water to the boil. Add frozen vegies; cook for 1 minute, or until thawed, then drain.

3. Heat peanut oil in a large deep frying pan or wok set over high heat. Add chicken and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, or until just cooked through. Add vegies and sauces; stirfry for 2–3 minutes, or until heated through. Add toasted cashews and toss to combine.

4. Divide reserved warm brown rice among serving plates, top with stir-fry and serve.

Variations: To save time, you can replace the brown rice in this recipe with 2 x 250g packets of microwavable brown rice Recipe from Healthy Food Guide magazine, available at supermarkets.

Improve the quality of your skin “The Tweed Skin Cancer Clinic in the centre of Tweed Heads receives patients from the wider Mid North and North NSW coast.

We have a 100% bulk billing policy and are committed to maintaining an excellent level of service in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer and melanoma.

We also have a visiting Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon who consults and performs surgery in our rooms every month.

We very rarely have to refer our patients to have surgery in a hospital. This level of service is not matched anywhere in Australia.

Our standards of care are well above average, we find three times more skin cancers and melanomas according to pathology audit results.

We also have an extremely high level of accuracy in removing skin cancers successfully. Our Doctors are rigorously and regularly trained by our Plastic Surgeon, and we have regular in house patient case study reviews to ensure our standards are kept to this high level.

We welcome patients from the wider NSW north coast to come and have a thorough check and examination, and construct a plan to eradicate skin cancers and improve quality of skin for the longer term.”

TWEED SKIN CANCER CLINIC Excellence in Skin Cancer and Melanoma Diagnosis and Treatment

ALL SERVICES bulk billed Female doctor available Open Saturdays No referral necessary

LONG ESTABLISHED CLINIC

Tweed Day Surgery and Specialist Centre Suite 6, 38-44 Boyd St Tweed Heads | 07 5536 4961 North Coast Seniors

5658646ae

EARLY DETECTION MAY SAVE LIVES

Revolution - January 2017 23

HEALTH

Why a sea change is great for your health

Denture Care

By Jessica Dawes, Dental Prosthetist, Grafton

Tinnitus is that annoying buzzing, ringing or clicking sound that never seems to go away. It is common among seniors and can be a symptom of hearing loss or the result of exposure to excessively loud noise, extreme stress or trauma, as well as some prescription and non-prescription drugs.

But regardless of the cause, the effect can be devastating. The result of this non-stop cacophony can be anxiety, depression, irritability, poor concentration and sleep problems.

The perfect excuse for a coastal break Intrusive tinnitus, which isn’t a symptom of underlying hearing problems, can’t be cured, but it can be masked.

And that’s where those crashing waves come into play.

According to the Tinnitus Association of Victoria, when the brain first hears tinnitus, it tries to classify it from the data bank of sounds it’s familiar with. When it can’t find a “match”, the brain concentrates on the sound much more than it should as it tries to figure it out, causing it to be magnified.

One way to think of it is to consider your reaction to the sound of a blind knocking on the window sill during the day. You don’t think twice about it because the brain knows what it is and that there’s no danger. But when you hear the same sound at night your brain considers it a possible sign of danger and magnifies it to warn you.

Similarly, if you focus on the sound of tinnitus, the brain interprets it as a danger signal and magnifies it to warn you. After a while, the brain becomes “obsessed” with the sound, and keeps focusing on it, keeping the body and mind in a state of high alert that can result in stress and depression*.

Leading ENT surgeon, Associate Professor Melville da Cruz, explains that intrusive tinnitus can be treated by using other sounds to “mask” the ringing noise, such as recordings of whale noises or the ocean. But who needs recordings when the real thing is available 24/7 simply living near the coast? As if anyone needed another justification for a sea change.

Get checked out Of course, tinnitus can also be associated with hearing loss, so Associate Professor da Cruz says it is important to start with a visit to the doctor to make sure it is not caused by any underlying medical problems.

“If there is no connection to any other problem found, an important part of managing your tinnitus is understanding that it is common and isn’t anything to be seriously worried about,” he says. “This can ease anxiety and sometimes make the condition seem less apparent. Other simple actions to ease tinnitus include stress management, reducing exposure to loud noises, quitting smoking and easing off on stimulants like caffeine and alcohol.”

Professor da Cruz says if the tinnitus is found to be associated with hearing loss, dealing with the problem usually eases the symptoms. This can include air conduction hearing aids, night time masking and tinnitus retraining therapy.

“Air conduction hearing aids are an effective solution if the tinnitus is associated with a wider hearing problem,” he says. “When the sufferer can hear every day sounds, this can help distract from the ringing noise, and can also help reduce the perceived volume of the problem. In the case of severe to profound hearing loss, an implantable hearing solution, such as a Cochlear implant, can be more effective.”

About Associate Professor Melville da Cruz Associate Professor Melville da Cruz is Associate Professor, University of Sydney, and ENT surgeon at Westmead Hospital, Sydney and SCIC Cochlear Implant Program, an RIDBC service. He has special clinical interests in disorders or the ear, hearing and temporal bone with expertise in middle ear surgery, cochlear implantation, acoustic tumour surgery, as well as general disorders of the ear, nose and throat. http://www.entwest.com.au/ For more information on ways to improve your hearing visit www.cochlear.com/au/recapturehearing.

You can also contact our Cochlear Concierge Team for information, guidance and support at concierge_ ausnz@cochlear.com or call 1800 875 212. *Tinnitus Association of Victoria

0HDOV RQ :KHHOV COOKED IN GRAFTON DAILY

• Sweets, Salads, Sandwiches • Hot / Chilled / Frozen available each day • Weekend Meals Delivered • Out of town catered (frozen packs) • Soup on menu for winter Mon-Fri 7am-1pm | Enquiries: 6642 3879 Email: mowgraf@westnet.com.au

24

January 2017 - Revolution

For three generations the Dawes family has provided Quality Denture Care to the Clarence Valley

Ken Dawes

DENTURE ENTURE E CLINIC

CVI©170125

The North Coast is a favoured destination for seniors, whether they’re after a permanent sea change or a getaway destination. After all, what could be better than spending your days enjoying the sun, sand and surf before falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing on the beach? And for those who suffer from tinnitus, it can be just what the doctor ordered – literally.

Dentures, as with teeth, can collect stains, plaque, tartar and general food debris. It is recommended to have a daily cleaning routine in order to keep the dentures, and more importantly, your mouth, clean and healthy.

The most effective removal of plaque and general stains is soaking and thorough brushing.

There are many commercial denture cleansers out there and there isn’t one brand that will suit every patient. The best thing to keep in mind is, that some are denture cleansers that should be used daily, and some are stain removers which are usually only to be used once a week.

If you have trouble determining which is which, contact your Dental Prosthetist. Do not EVER soak your denture in laundry bleach (even diluted!), methylated spirits or boiling hot water.

When brushing your dentures, do so over a basin, not in the shower! Place a folded towel in the basin, or half fill the basin with water to prevent breakage should you drop the denture. With a soft denture brush and denture paste (standard toothpaste is not recommended but is what most people use), scrub the denture both inside and out. If you have a partial denture, you still need to brush and floss your own teeth thoroughly too. If you have a full denture, it doesn’t hurt to massage/ brush your gums and tongue with a soft toothbrush as well. This will stimulate blood flow and can aid in the prevention of bad breath.

If you are following the above instructions but still develop stains and plaque build-up, you can have your dentures professionally cleaned for a small fee, which may be covered entirely if you have Private Health Insurance.

At Dawes Denture Clinic, we will happily provide you with advice on anything related to dentures so please don’t hesitate to contact us for a no-obligation, free consultation on 6642 2300 or 6645 2300 or drop into 26 Prince St, Grafton.

For dentures designed exclusively to suit your individual preferences, contact us today on GRAFTON 6642 MACLEAN 6645

2300 2300

North Coast Seniors

HEALTH

Stay in your own home for longer For over 25 years, Clarence Valley Home Modification and Maintenance Service (CVHMMS) has assisted over 500 Valley residents each year to function safely in their homes.

CVHMMS assists clients who are frail aged, with a disability, or their carers through the Commonwealth Home Support (CHSP) and NSW Community Care Supports (CCSP) Program.

CVHMMS is a community based and managed not- for-profit organisation.

CVHMMS is fully licensed and all work completed comes with a warranty. Operating under the Home and Community Care Act 1985, GST is not charged for any aspect of the service, quality materials obtained in bulk (therefore at a discounted cost) are used, and labour is provided at a subsidised price. All work is completed by licensed trades people.

Modifications can range from a grab rail in the shower to installation of a lift. Regularly provided modifications include handrails, chair raisers, step wedges, anti-slip treatment to wet areas, stair chairs, ramps and bathroom modifications to allow for easy access.

Home maintenance services are also provided as well as attending to other hazards around the home.

CVHMMS also provides a yard care program to assist with safety for clients.

The service is at capacity, so please contact the office if you would like to be added to the waiting list.

To access a CVHMMS service, the process is as follows. For clients aged 65 years and over (or 50+ for ATSI clients), either visit www.myagedcare.gov. au or phone: 1800 200 422. This is a new centralised referral service for any required aged care service. For younger clients, please phone the Occupational Therapy department: Grafton on 6641 8738 or Maclean: 6640 0123, or CVHMMS: 6643 1831 to arrange a free Occupational Therapy Assessment to determine the best modification to suit your needs.

CVHMMS is located at Unit 3/137 Prince Street, Grafton (frontage on Bacon Street), where an exhibit of grab rails, shower hoses, and taps, together with some examples of modifications that CVHMMS is able to provide, is on display. We are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm.

Most people want to remain living safely in their own homes. We can assist you to do this. Clarence Valley Home Modification and Maintenance Service: prescription builders; enhancing people’s lives in a very practical way...

New mobile screening sites for 2017 Commencing in 2017 the BreastScreen NSW North Coast mobile unit will be offering free screening mammograms at three new locations. For details of other mobile screening locations on the North Coast please refer to our website www.breastscreen.nsw.gov.au Murwillumbah: 6 February – 23 February (Knox Park car park) Ocean Shores: 27 February – 9 March (Ocean Shores Community Centre) Mullumbimby: 13 March – 23 March (Dalley Street) Screening remains available all year round at our fixed sites located at Coffs Harbour, Lismore and Tweed Heads.

Breast screening continues to be an important health check for women.

Breast Cancer remains the most common cancer diagnosed in Australian women. Nine out of 10 women who are diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease.

The service is free for all women over the age of 40, however women aged 50 to 74 years are given priority and actively encouraged to attend for screening.

Appointments take only 20 minutes. No GP referral necessary.

To book your free screening mammogram call 13 20 50.

Twenty minutes every two years could save your life.

s,DD^ ŝƐ Ă ŚŽŵĞ ĂŶĚ ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚLJ ĐĂƌĞ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĂƐƐŝƐƟŶŐ ƚŚĞ ĨƌĂŝů ĂŐĞĚ͕ ƉĞŽƉůĞ ǁŝƚŚ Ă ĚŝƐĂďŝůŝƚLJ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞŝƌ ĐĂƌĞƌƐ ƚŽ ƌĞŵĂŝŶ ůŝǀŝŶŐ ƐĂĨĞůLJ ŝŶ ƚŚĞŝƌ ŽǁŶ ŚŽŵĞƐ͘

,ŽŵĞ DĂŝŶƚĞŶĂŶĐĞ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ ƌĂŶŐĞ ĨƌŽŵ ĮdžŝŶŐ LJŽƵƌ ǁĂƐŚŝŶŐ ŵĂĐŚŝŶĞ ƚŽ ƌĞƉĂŝƌŝŶŐ Ă ůĞĂŬ ŝŶ LJŽƵƌ ƌŽŽĨ͘

,ŽŵĞ DŽĚŝĮĐĂƟŽŶƐ ĐĂŶ ƌĂŶŐĞ ĨƌŽŵ ƚŚĞ ŝŶƐƚĂůůĂƟŽŶ ŽĨ Ă ƐŵĂůů ŐƌĂď ƌĂŝů ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƐŚŽǁĞƌ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ŝŶƐƚĂůůĂƟŽŶ ŽĨ Ă ůŝŌ͘

E^t ĞƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚ ŽĨ &Ăŝƌ dƌĂĚŝŶŐ >ŝĐĞŶƐĞ EŽ͘ ϭϬϰϯϰϰ ͘

Live safely and independently in your own home!

Now providing yard care, including: • Lawn mowing • Pruning • Trimming • General clean up • Gutter clean (eligibility criteria apply and numbers are limited.)

Please phone for details.

FOR ALL ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE IN GRAFTON, LOCATED AT 3/137 PRINCE STREET, OR TELEPHONE ON 6643 1831.

Revolution - January 2017 25

HEALTH

Tips for enjoying a healthy lifestyle KEEP ACTIVE There’s no doubt that keeping active makes us feel younger and more energetic. But there are a number of specific benefits that make keeping active much more appealing, including helping to: • Manage high blood pressure and angina • Keep you at a healthy weight • Stimulate a poor appetite • Maintain regular bowel movements • Strengthen muscles and bones, reducing the risk of falls and fractures • Ease discomfort if you have arthritis or Parkinsons.

Regular exercise assists in boosting the production of brain chemicals that uplifts your mood and make you feel happy – so it can be a good way to deal with stress, loneliness, and anxiety.

The 4 building blocks to keeping active Developing and maintaining strength, stamina, flexibility, and balance are very important as you get older, and can help you carry out everyday tasks more easily, as well as enjoy activities with families members more.

Stamina - helps you to walk longer distances, swim, out gardening & running round after grandchildren.

Strength - helps you to climb stairs,

carry shopping, rise from a chair and open a container.

Flexibility - helps you to bend, get in and out of a car, wash your hair and get dressed.

Balance - helps you to walk and climb steps confidently, stand from a sitting position and respond quickly if you trip.

Any amount of extra activity that’s appropriate for your age group/ability and health makes a difference.

IF YOU DON'T DO ANY EXERCISE If you haven't been very active before it's never too late to start. Limit the amount of time you spend sitting watching TV, reading or listening to music. Look out for everyday activities that can help you become more active, and create new social networks to help you along your way. They could include: • Walking to the shops instead of taking the car or bus • Using the stairs instead of lifts or

escalators • Doing the housework.

• Going to Group Fitness classes in the community like Tai Chi, Yoga or Pilates Try as little as 10mins a day, set yourself achievable goals that will assist you to stay motivated. Always build up gradually and speak to your GP before increasing your activity levels significantly.

• Participating in a Low Impact Group Fitness Class If you're already active If you’re already active, you can improve your fitness and health by challenging yourself to something new and out of your comfort zone. This can include: • Running or a shuffle • Cycling fast or up hills • Climbing stairs • Playing Tennis or Football or Golf.

• Participating in a Group Fitness Class MUSCLE-STRENGTHENING ACTIVITIES Staying active is a combination of cardiovascular health and maintaining muscle strength which is vital in assisting with healthy bone density.

Exercises that help strengthen your muscles can include dancing, low impact group fitness classes, water aerobics, yoga, and pilates. Lifting bags of shopping or weights can help to strengthen the muscles in your arms and wrists. And don’t forget the more you get out and about the more the body releases that happy hormone keeping a smile on your dial.

IF YOU'RE FAIRLY ACTIVE BUT COULD DO MORE If you're generally fit and you have no health conditions that limit your ability to move around, then it is recommended that you complete 2 – 3 hours of physical activity a week.

Moderate activity may leave you feeling warm and a little breathless. It can include: • Walking fast “Wisdom always comes through a • Cycling on level ground story and an unforgettable journey” • Swimming or Water aerobics

L O R T N O C TAKE H! ALT E H R U O Y OF JOIN US TODAY

Stay Active Stay Healthy Group Fitness & Much More

HOUR

24 ACCESS 7 4 2 a b Yam Fitness H ea lth &

12B Treelands Drive YAMBA • 0455 737 827

26

January 2017 - Revolution

Are you over 65?

FREE

Call & book your annual full & comprehensive skin check TODAY! Are you concerned about any spots on your body?

Or you haven’t had a skin check in the last year?

Call today for peace of mind.

6645 8155 2/24 Yamba St, Yamba (next door to newsagency/ across from Post Office) North Coast Seniors

FEATURE

Learning to live with the loss of someone close is one of the most painful experiences we can encounter, and society’s response often makes it even harder.

‘Walk Beside Me’ I was at a restaurant with a group of friends enjoying a meal and somehow the conversation found its’ way to death. With tears welling up in my eyes and a choked voice I added to the discussion by saying, “I just can’t get over the loss of my brother.” What followed revealed the typical response; an awkward silence, one sympathetic smile, and then someone started commenting on the weather.

Why is it that as soon as someone mentions the pain of losing someone they love, people don’t know what to say nor how to respond?

Maria Owings Shriver is an American journalist, activist, author of six best-selling books, former First Lady of California, and the estranged wife of former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. At a ‘From Heartache to Healing’ conference in California, Maria was one of the keynote speakers. In her speech she mentioned, “We are a grief illiterate society and that people are not comfortable talking about grief or loss or any kind.” 1 People often feel uneasy and uncomfortable with discussing the topic of death. Perhaps some people avoid it for fear of reawakening their own grief buried deep within their own hearts? Others may find the topic too confronting, and no doubt others simply do not know how to respond, so they choose to avoid the issue altogether.

Here are some statements grieving people have said: “I am lost without him. I don’t know if I am coming or going and don’t know which way is up or down. I am just trying to make the best out of an empty world.”

“I’m exhausted emotionally, mentally and suffering physically.”

“I will never get over the way he died he was too young. My heart is broken and in pieces.”

“I have lost everything. I’m so lonely to the point that I’m not sure if life is worth living without her.”

“It’s hard to describe. It’s the worst place you could possibly be. All you do is get up every day and hope it’s a bad dream.”

“Every day I grieve. People say to “move on” but I cannot get over it.”

“It feels like my grief will go on forever. Will this deep sorrow ever go away?”

“I don’t want to live anymore. The grief is too overwhelming.”

“People say I should be over it by now. It has been four years since my darling died from cancer. But I can’t get over it.”

“Children bury their parents, not the other way around. I wish I’d died instead of my son.”

How would you respond to these people? Would you know what to say?

A friend of mine said that after the loss of her baby she remembers very little of what was happening around her after the tragedy, except for the heartless things people said such as “You can always have another baby”, “Only the good die young” and “God loved your baby so much that He took her home to live with Him”. “These comments accentuated my heartache,”

North Coast Seniors

she said and admitted she still finds it hard to forgive those people.

For generations people in our society have become accustomed to keeping a stiff upper lip by being strong, putting on a brave face, sweeping our feelings under the rug and by avoiding engaging in conversations about bereavement. There was a stigma surrounding grief that made people feel embarrassed or ashamed if they exhibited any expression of mourning. ‘Real men don’t cry’, and women ought to ‘hold it together’ for the sake of the family, are just some of the many damaging concepts that have circulated for decades. Trite clichés such as the ones expressed in the previous paragraph reveal just our naive and insensitive people can be. Even professionals urged people to avoid or ignore their personal responses to grief by promoting prescribed processes to follow, or by numbing their pain through medication.

By failing to promote the importance of embracing and expressing grief millions of people are dealing with serious physical, mental and emotional problems and disorders. In extreme cases, some people have suicided because they did not know how to deal with their acute grief.

‘Learning to live with the loss of someone close is one of the most painful experiences we can encounter, and society’s response often makes it even harder. There’s an urgent need to improve access to bereavement services, and to ensure that people who have been bereaved are not ignored or left isolated.’ ~ Dr. Dawn Chaplin (http://dyingmatters.org/news/ bereaved-workers-failed-employers) As the new year dawned, I launched a new campaign entitled ‘Walk with me’. The purpose is to raise awareness in our communities of the importance of caring for the bereaved. It consists of a Facebook Page (Walk Beside Me), a book by the same name, and the announcement of a new comprehensive course entitled ‘Certificate of Bereavement Care’.

Marina Krim arrived home one afternoon, after taking her daughter Nessie (3) to a swimming lesson, to find her two other children, Lulu (2) and Leo (6) had been murdered by their Nanny. Neighbours reported hearing Marina’s terrifying scream and immediately phoned the police. A distraught Marina tearfully said, “I was sitting in the hospital asking over and over to anybody who would listen, “What am I supposed to do tomorrow?

How do I do this? What do we do?” The hospital workers looked at me with a blank stare. They didn’t have an answer for me. A few days later, Kevin and I met some of the top psychiatrists in NYC, and they didn’t have a reassuring answer for us either. There was no obvious path for us, no manual with step by step direc-

tions about how to deal with a blow like this, no teacher telling us what to do.” (www.yahoo.com/parenting/familys-amazing-resilience-after-tragedy) Marina is right; there isn’t an obvious path to take, there aren’t any how-to-grieve-successfully manuals and there aren’t any teachers to instruct us how we ought to grieve.

There are, however, people whose hearts overflow with compassion for the heartbroken, and are willing to walk alongside them in their grief. It is for these folk, I have written this book, launched this course and created the Facebook Page.

This campaign suggests numerous ways people like you and I can help grievers express, share, and work through the painful feelings they will be experiencing in the wake of their loss. I use the term ‘grief companions’ a lot to explain the role of those who are caring for a grief-stricken family member, friend or client.

Grief companions are aware of not trying to fix, cure or rescue people; nor do they try to find ways to alleviate their suffering. Instead, they journey alongside them as the griever forges his or her their own unique healing pathway. We become caring, comforting companions as they discover their own strategies and solutions for each hurdle they’ll encounter along the way.

I am making a PDF copy of the Walk Beside Me book available for free for readers who would like to know more about companioning the bereaved. Please email me at delmariemcalister@yahoo.com and I’ll email a copy to you.

Del Marie McAlister is a chaplain, life coach, recreational activities officer and a counsellor specialising in grief, loss and aged care.

She has written a few books on grief and runs a grief support group in Ballina.

Delmariemcalister@ yahoo.com

Del Marie McAlister

1. http://heartachetohealing.com/ grief-healing-resilience-spoken-at-womens-conference

Beautifully crafted, unique cremation urns www.forgetmenoturns.com.au Revolution - January 2017

27

OUR COMMUNITY

Celebrate Seniors' Week in the Tweed

Lismore CWA The CWA Lismore Branch this year based its display case and wall at The North Coast National on an item found during the clean-up of our rooms. This is the truly magnificent corset to the left of the photo, Also found were old photos that had been used in much earlier celebrations, Among our records, we found a calender of puddings, from 1930 and members brought in other artefacts.

We also found, and borrowed from the Show Society, a pair of old hurricane lanterns.

The display also included a poster and photos from our Intemational Officer, Helen Dargin, and a terrific Agriculture and Environment display from Verlie Troughton, developed in consultation with the display planner and coordina-

tor, Robyn Stewart. Our Handicrafts were also displayed across the front of the case as well as our charity items,trauma teddies, wraps with love and comfort dolls.

Also prominent were ACWW photos and magazines.

The display was erected with the invaluable help of our resident helper, Steve Stewarkand received many positive comments from visitors. Steve, Robyn and Helen are in our photo and dismantled the display when all the shouting and hurrahs had died down.

The club also manned a baby rest/ change/feed area, handicraft sales and served coffee,tea and biscuits.

Thanks go to all the people who served and those who donated items.

Robyn Stewart, Handicrafts Offcer

Tweed Shire will present about 80 opportunities for its seniors to explore new activities during the NSW Seniors Festival between March 3rd and 12th.

2017.

As one of the State’s leading retirement destinations, the Tweed region has built up its Seniors Festival reputation over many years. The community eagerly supports the ten day event with functions and activities that are lapped up by its enthusiastic over 55’s.

The 2017 program includes both active and passive outings to allow Tweed residents to sample things they may like to take up as a regular pastime. There are dance and aquatic exercise sessions, tennis groups, croquet and introductory yoga classes for the active, while those wishing to keep mentally agile can enjoy Mah-Jong lesosns, family history facilities and workshops on retirement investment strategies, new technologies or safe social networking techniques.

Tweed’s art galleries, libraries and museums offer special days

LISMORE DENTURE CLINIC

and local village communities and schools open their arms with concerts and functions that acknowledge and celebrate their older citizens.

Local bus companies come to the party with low priced tours that visit interesting destinations as far north as Brisbane and south to the Clarence River. Bus prices are kept low with ticket subsidies from the Tweed Seniors Committee.

Well known local identity Vic Crowley heads the Tweed Seniors Committee which organises the program with the support of the Tweed Shire Council. Vic encourages his fellow seniors to take advantage of the dozens of chances they will get in early March to expand their range of regular weekly activity. “Get out there and enjoy yourself” is the Committee’s advice to all.

A full list of programmed activities in the Tweed Shire will be available on the Committee’s website from February 7th. Visit www. tweedseniors.com to find the event for you.

NSW Seniors Festival is the LARGEST FESTIVAL for seniors in the Southern Hemisphere.

NSW Seniors Festival is designed to thank, celebrate and recognise seniors for the role they play and the contributions they make to the NSW community. There are plenty of activities again this year over the C.ex Group of clubs.

Jon Doulman RDP • Professional denture care

C.ex Urunga Sunday 12 March Tim Pike 3pm – 5pm | $FREE

• Precision denture design

3-12 MARCH ‘17

• Individual cosmetic dentures • With exceptional care & attention to detail • Complimentary initial consultation and assessment

PURCHASE A MUG OF COFFEE OR TEA FOR THE PRICE OF A CUP

C.ex Woolgoolga C.ex Coffs

Wednesday 8 March The Howie Brothers 2PM | $FREE

Friday 3 March to Monday 6 March Art Display & Competition

Wednesday 8 March Dee Donovan in the Entertainment Lounge 2PM | $FREE

PURCHASE A MUG OF COFFEE OR TEA FOR THE PRICE OF A CUP

HALF PRICE

DURING SENIORS FESTIVAL ‘17 1

Friday 10 March

Serving the community for over 30 years

Coffs Regional Brass Band in the Vista Lounge 12.30PM | $FREE

PLUS...

SENIORS INFO DESKS AT C.EX COFFS DURING THE FESTIVAL

Because your smile says everything For complete denture services

Phone 6622 2244 28

January 2017 - Revolution

2/15 Molesworth St Lismore (along from Planet Music) North Coast Seniors

CELEBRATE SENIORS' WEEK

GOD'S WAITING ROOM This is a play in two acts especially written by our own author, Dorothy Hillis, for Seniors Week Grafton in March 2017. Set in the fictitious Grafton Retirement Village with people from all backgrounds and experiences. The oldest resident is coming up to his 100th birthday with preparations for a party and he is looking forward to his letter from the Queen and all the publicity he expects this will bring.

There are 11 characters in the play aged in their 60's upwards, both men and women, who get on well together in a family atmosphere.

The theme is of retirees, some of whom have met prior to coming to the Village, talking about the circumstances which brought them there. The residents have different interests and hobbies and usually meet each day for

morning tea/coffee in the recreation room.

A couple of the characters, Margaret and Grace, will be remembered from Dorothy's previous plays of Welcome and Even More Welcome. Margaret has come to the Retirement Village to be the new manager of the Village after the death of her husband Bill.

Grace has found that she can no longer take care of the other people in the Welcome and needs to be free of her duties there. By coming to the Village she can enjoy the rest from cooking and helping the young residents in the Welcome and enjoy her later years.

This is by no means a sombre play and many moments of comedy are to be enjoyed.

Audiences will remember most of the cast from previous plays staged at the Pelican Playhouse.

Venue: Pelican Playhouse, 81 Through St South Grafton Show Dates: Evening Shows - March 3, 4 and 10, 11 at 7.30pm Matinee Shows - March 5, 12 at 2pm Tickets: $20 Full / $15 Conc - South Grafton News & Gifts, Skinner St South Grafton Ph: 6642 3027 Tickets on sale from Friday, Feb 10

l a v i t s

ern rth 3A o N )U ith ore w m in (Lis in Jo ers v i R

Fe

Celebrate Senior's Week with Northern Rivers (Lismore) U3A. A free event entitled Festival will be held on March 14, 10am to 3.30. This will include lots of fun....costume.....music.... poetry plus guest speakers. The venue is the Lismore City Council Education Centre in the beautiful botanic gardens, Wyrallah Road, Lismore. Visitors are welcome but bookings are essential for catering. Contact Pat MacLaren-Smith, Secretary on Pmaclaren-smith@bigpond.com or phone 66 227 408.

Laughter is the best medicine The secret to long life

again, don't drink too

is to stay busy, get plenty

little. - Hermann Smith

of exercise, and don't

Johansson at the age of

drink too much. Then

103.

SENIORS WEEK 2017 FRIDAY 3RD MARCH - SUNDAY 12TH MARCH 2017

God’s Waiting Room 7.30pm Pelican Playhouse 81 Through Street, South Grafton Tickets: $20 Full / $15 Conc.

FREE “Just Friends” musical duo 7.30pm onwards Grafton District Services Club 105-107 Mary Street, Grafton SATURDAY 4TH MARCH God’s Waiting Room 7.30pm Pelican Playhouse 81 Through Street, South Grafton Tickets: $20 Full / $15 Conc.

SUNDAY 5TH MARCH God’s Waiting Room 2.00pm Matinee Pelican Playhouse 81 Through Street, South Grafton Tickets: $20 Full / $15 Conc.

North Coast Seniors

Yamba Seniors Inc. Morning Tea, Sausage Sizzle & Entertainment 10.00am onwards Yamba Bowling Club 44 Wooli Street, Yamba Cost: $5 per person Enquiries: 6646 2305.

MONDAY 6TH MARCH FREE Tech Savvy Seniors Grafton Shopping World 52-74 Fitzroy Street, Grafton 10.00am; 12 noon & 2.00pm TUESDAY 7TH MARCH FREE Morning tea with the Yamba Sunshine Club (CRANES Community Support Programs) Treelands Drive, Yamba 10.30am - 11.30am Enquiries: Nina McConnell at CRANES 6642 7257.

FREE Tech Savvy Seniors Grafton Shopping World 52-74 Fitzroy Street, Grafton 10.00am; 12 noon & 2.00pm

WEDNESDAY 8TH MARCH FREE Morning tea and music

by Roger Green with the Grafton Sunshine Club (CRANES Community Support Programs) 10 Kemp Street, Grafton 10.00am - 11.30am Enquiries: Nina McConnell at CRANES 6642 7257.

FREE Tech Savvy Seniors Grafton Shopping World 52-74 Fitzroy Street, Grafton 10.00am; 12 noon & 2.00pm “Women of Yulgilbar” exhibition at Grafton Regional Gallery 158 Fitzroy Street, Grafton Open till 25th March.

Maclean Seniors Luncheon with entertainment and games 1.30pm onwards Maclean Bowling Club 1a McLachlan Street, Maclean Cost: $3 entry fee.

Enquiries: Ph 6645 3711

Grafton Senior Citizens Open Day 9.00am - 3.00pm Grafton Community Centre, 59 Duke Street, Grafton FREE Australian Hearing Bus 9.30am - 2.30pm Market Square Park, Grafton THURSDAY 9TH MARCH FREE Tech Savvy Seniors Grafton Shopping World 52-74 Fitzroy Street, Grafton 10.00am; 12 noon & 2.00pm FRIDAY 10TH MARCH God’s Waiting Room 7.30pm Pelican Playhouse 81 Through Street, South Grafton Tickets: $20 Full / $15 Conc.

FREE Tech Savvy Seniors Grafton Shopping World 52-74 Fitzroy Street, Grafton 10.00am; 12 noon & 2.00pm

SATURDAY 11TH MARCH God’s Waiting Room 7.30pm Pelican Playhouse 81 Through Street, South Grafton Tickets: $20 Full / $15 Conc.

SUNDAY 12TH MARCH FREE “Suburban Country” (country music act) 1.00pm Grafton District Services Club 105-107 Mary Street, Grafton God’s Waiting Room 2.00pm Matinee Pelican Playhouse 81 Through Street, South Grafton Tickets: $20 Full / $15 Conc.

CVI©170125

FRIDAY 3RD MARCH

Revolution - January 2017 29

Palm Lake Resort YAMBA Have you checked us out lately?

Our resort in Yamba, is situated at the mouth of the Clarence River in Northern NSW and is in easy reach of Ballina, Byron Bay, Grafton and only 2hrs to the Gold Coast. With amazing beaches, Yamba features a relaxed lifestyle, national parks and a large marina in a beautiful setting.

classes, Tai Chi, cards, craft groups and of course a game of pool or darts.

Along with the well equipped gym, library, pool with heated spa, we also have safe and secure compounds for caravan and boat storage at no additional cost.

Yamba also offers top class golf and bowling clubs.

Our Resort is also pet friendly, so don’t worry about leaving your four legged family member behind.

The Resort includes a wide range of facilities and activities such as a Bowls Green, Tennis Court, Golf Driving net and our community hall also known as the Round House is the centre for many social functions, dinners, BBQ’s and other activities such as carpet bowls, exercise

So with NO lawns to mow, NO council rates, NO stamp duty, NO entry or exit fees, just a happy and secure atmosphere. Homes starting from $220,000. What are you waiting for, come and visit and be a part of Palm Lake Resort Yamba.

FACILITIES

ACTIVITIES

• RESORT POOL

• AQUA AEROBICS, INSTRUCTOR

• HEATED SPA • BOWLING GREEN • CLUB HOUSE • DANCE FLOOR • LIBRARY • ART AND CRAFT • COMMUNITY BBQ AREA • CARAVAN STORAGE AREA • WELL EQUIPPED GYM, AIR/CON

FRIENDLY MANAGEMENT & GROUND STAFF

• TAI-CHI PLUS EXERCISE • SOCIAL BOWLS • INHOUSE BOWLS • SOCIAL RESIDENT SIDENT GROUPS • BAR

NO MOWING NO COUNCIL RATES NO STAMP DUTY NO ENTRY OR EXIT FEES

• BILLIARD TABLE

CVI©SEN170125

• DART BOARD

VILLAS FOR SALE! RANGE FROM $195,000 TO $400,000

STORE YOUR BOAT OR CARAVAN AND PET FRIENDLY

RENTAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE

1800 084 119

PALM LAKE RESORT • 1 ORION DRIVE • YAMBA NSW 2464 • www.palmlakeresort.com.au January 2017 - Revolution

30

OUR COMMUNITY

How to use creative and healthy ageing techniques to improve wellbeing The Whiddon Group’s Director of Research and Creative Ageing Expert, Karn Nelson, shares her insights on the links between creativity and wellbeing, and tips on how to use these techniques at home.

At Whiddon, we use the term creative ageing broadly to include arts and crafts, music and song, dance, theatre, animal therapy, storytelling, writing, cooking and gardening.

The reason it works is that creative expression engages many different parts of the brain, and it is enjoyable, which means that you are more likely to keep on doing it. Neuroscience confirms that our brain’s capacity for creative expressions does not diminish with age, in fact, it can grow.

We’ve found that getting people involved in creative activities and groups is a highly effective way of tackling social isolation and loneliness, reducing anxiety and depression, and improving capability and cognition. Our trial of HenPower, a creative ageing and social-engagement program based around keeping and caring for chooks has resulted in much improved quality of life for the residents that get very involved. For one resident, Aub, having chickens in the home gave added purpose to his day and helped him regain

a previous level of physical activity by giving him a reason to spend time outside and walk around.

Our tips for healthy ageing: Get creative – You don’t need to be ‘naturally’ creative. Anyone can get involved in and enjoy creative activities - music, singing, art, mandala meditation, puzzles, even gardening and cooking involve creative expression. These activities build confidence and can have a big impact on positivity, wellbeing and happiness.

Stay connected – Loneliness and social isolation can have huge impacts on health, engagement and wellbeing.

Find ways to connect with people, places, interests and things that matter to you and encourage family and friends to do the same.

It’s important to understand that being social and keeping connected looks a little different for everyone; it could be finding new interests or maintaining existing hobbies, going to social groups and events, caring for a family pet, going on outings with family and

friends, or even having a meaningful conversation with someone.

Be physically active – Keeping active is important at all ages and exercise is beneficial for both your physical and mental wellbeing.

Having a reason to keep active or spend time outside in the garden, as we saw in our HenPower trial, helps with the motivation for this. This could be going for a walk to catch up with family or friends, spending time in the garden, walking a pet or going for a swim.

Aub says having Priscilla to look after helps him stay motivated to be active and spend more time outside.

Exercise your mind – Brain training is a hot topic and we frequently hear about activities to keep the brain active. Whiddon offers a program called Chat, Stories & Tea, a social program that uses non-medication based approaches to slow cognitive decline.

Techniques from the program can also be used at home to help engage a family member or friend - use plenty

of sensory stimuli, such as music, pictures, things to hold and play with to help encourage conversation and memories to flow. Avoid asking direct questions, as this can be intimidating and instead use imagination to encourage conversation to build confidence.

Find meaningful activities – Participating in meaningful activities helps us feel positive, purposeful and accomplished. These activities may change as we grow older and it’s important to help a family member find what’s meaningful and enjoyable for them - pursuing an old hobby, or finding a new one, volunteering, mentoring others and finding ways to give back.

Caring for another being or living thing, human, animal or plant can have an enormous impact on feeling that we are contributing and valued, which is why pet therapy is so powerful.

To find out more about Whiddon’s award winning aged care services and creative ageing programs visit www. whiddon.com.au or chat to us on 1300 738 388

Community Care Supporting you at home

At Whiddon, we provide personalised health, wellbeing and support services to help people stay living in their homes for longer.

Talk to us about: - Personalised and flexible care plans - Home Care Packages and private services - Help around the home, transport solutions and respite care - Access to our award winning healthy ageing programs and creative clubs

Award winning aged care services Award winning aged care services whiddon.com.au 1300 738 388 whiddon.com.au 1300 738 388 North Coast Seniors

Revolution - January 2017

31

SPORT

Coffs Harbour A SURFING LEGEND IN Over 50s Table Tennis OUR MIDST BY: COL HENNESSY

John 'Nipper' Williams

There are plenty of would be champions within the surfing community on the Clarence Coast but how many of them would be aware that there is an Australian surfing champion in our community. I speak of course of John ‘Nipper’ Williams who won the first ever boardriders contest in Australia in 1958 aged 18. The event was held in Sydney at Avalon beach and he was using a Malibu.

Nipper lives in Iluka but doesn’t frequent the beaches very much anymore, preferring the golf course for his leisure time.

John grew up in the northern beach suburbs of Sydney, but in his days surfed all the major surfing spots on the east coast including Angourie. He started to get serious about surfing following the visit of an American surfing team to Australia in 1956. It was only two years later he won that first title and there were some great surfers of that era including Midge Farrelly and Nat Young, both of whom went on to become world champions.

In 1961 he led a team of Aussie surfers to Hawaii. One of that group was a young Midge Farrelly who won his world title at their home beach of Manly some three years later. Nipper was part of the official Australian team chosen at the end of that world championship.

By now Midge had his own column in the Sydney newspaper and had this to say in the Sun Herald “One of the unsung heroes of the Australian surf is John ‘Nipper’ Williams” “As far as I know, Nipper was the first surfer in Australia to take a step forward on his surfboard. I saw him do this while riding at Long Reef. Other surfers have told me he was the first to ‘hang five’” Sun Herald March 29, 1964 His life away from surfing didn’t change all that much. He was employed by Barry Bennett surfboards as a glasser (fibreglass) and made his own modifications to create the ‘Nipper Williams’ brand. He was also president of the Manly Pacific Surf Riders club as well as head lifeguard at Manly.

When he wasn’t in or near the water he cut a fine figure as a model for surf wear

32

January 2017 - Revolution

including Speedo and Casben as well as Pan Am airlines. He cut a very suave figure in those days and hard to believe he got the name ‘Nipper’ because of his small stature in his early school days.

He left the busy Sydney lifestyle and the fibreglass particles in his thirties to go to the Tweed area ,ust a short drive from the renowned Snapper Rocks where world champions ply their trade. It too became very busy and so the move to Iluka where I doubt the local surfers would even be aware of his presence. He may have to move on though (south coast) if it gets any hotter.

As to the current surfers, he has too much respect to be critical of his fellow water babes. Our world champions like Mick Fanning are no better than Midge or Nat but have a much better lifestyle and more financial support. The main difference he suggests is just that there are more of them.

The boards they ride are generally better as well, but if the truth be known a lot of the fins and extras are more novelties and extras as much as anything.

Although he would have liked to, he couldn’t get ‘out there’ to the bigger surf.

“The boards were too big and we didn’t have the marine craft to tow us out there,” he said.

When quizzed about the current debate surrounding sharks along our surfing beaches he didn’t hold strong views, but just saw it as changing times. He was neither for nor against culling their numbers.

He did comment that because there were so many more surfers out there on boards going to more remote spots than they used to (like river mouths) and at times that were not appropriate (late afternoons). Not to mention the black wet suits dangling off the boards themselves. It stands to reason, there would be more attacks he said.

BLUEPRINT FOR A SUCCESSFUL CLUB

We were asked recently by Table Tennis NSW why we have such a successful club. Our response has been circulated to all NSW clubs by our governing body indicating that our ideas may be helpful to them in their efforts to promote the game of table tennis. We are considered by Table Tennis NSW as a very successful country or regional club. Quite an honour for simply doing what we do.

Below is the Q & A. How does your club attract and retain players?

Our club is a social club specifically for the over 50's age group. We therefore concentrate very heavily on the social aspect of our sport.

The majority of our members are recruited by word of mouth and advertising in the Community section of our local newspaper.

However, we also run events to attract players to our club, such as Seniors Week where we open the club to Seniors on a specific day and invite them to a free sausage sizzle and a game after that.

We also advertise our club on the local radio station which is a free service. We also have a barbecue and fancy dress on Australia Day and normally invite a Coffs Harbour councillor to attend, that way Council can see the good job we are doing keeping older people active and healthy.

Within our club, when a member reaches 80, we have a special afternoon tea and they are presented with a certificate for that milestone.

This is always appreciated by that member and enjoyed by the rest of the club.

Our club's recent activities include a free family picnic lunch at a local national park with fun and games (as per photos below) and our annual Christmas party with live dance music including the Macarena which gets everyone up on the dance floor.

In addition to our busy social calendar, we do play table tennis at 189B Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesday and Fridays. For more information you can contact the club by email at coffsover50stabletennis@gmail.com or call Gail on 6653 1551 or visit the club's website typing in at Google Coffs Harbour Table Tennis and select “Sites Google”. https://sites.google.com/site/coffsharbourtabletennisclub/

Laughter is the best medicine Golf: Playing golf is like

(Above) Memories of yesteryear

If you think it's hard

going to a strip joint. After

meeting new people, try

18 holes you're tired and

picking up the wrong golf

most of your balls are

ball. - Jack Lemmon

missing. - Tim Allen

North Coast Seniors

SPORT

Croquet

on the North Coast

BY COL HENNESSY

The game of croquet has had a remarkable growth spurt in the last two years. New clubs have been established at Yamba and Iluka for instance and Coutts Crossing had just embarked on a massive expansion programme.

Just why this has happened is not that obvious but probably it is because of the increasing profile of what is known as ‘golf croquet’.

The traditional game of croquet, known as Association croquet (AC) has its origin in Wimbledon where players shared the lawns with tennis players. It is not an easy game to learn and the almost chess-like movements didn’t inspire people to stay with the game.

In recent years, however, golf croquet has become the game of choice. In this way, players still ‘run the hoop’ in the traditional way, but it is more social as players simply have alternate hits. Sometimes in Association croquet, a better player will not just dominate the court (with up to fifteen consecutive shots) and also the time.

For this reason, many new players found it frustrating and turned instead to the golf croquet format. It’s like comparing the games to cricket for instance. Five-day test matches in cricket are the traditional games. At the other end of the scale, we have T/20 cricket which is

like golf croquet and appeals to the masses. In between, there is the 50 over game in cricket and the game of ‘Ricochet’ which is somewhere between golf croquet and association. The ancient game has come a long way since it was part of the Olympics. It is proving popular with all ages.

Interesting to note that there are two new clubs in NSW every year. In other words, the game is not in decline. More of a facelift. In our area, only Kyogle has folded and sometimes it’s club politics that bring that about.

Croquet is not a game for just the elderly, which is the picture in many people’s mind. The world champion of golf croquet is just 29. Certainly, it is a slow paced game and not too energetic but it is played at walking pace and you are out in the fresh air, meeting new people and learning new skills. Isn’t that the secret of healthy living as you age?

Some people say the game is a mixture of chess and billiards and while that is partly true, the skill set can be likened to putting in golf. Instead of the ball lipping out of the cup as it does in golf, now you find the ball in the jaws of the hoop, which is only marginally wider than the ball. You do have to be precise.

The good thing is that you can pick up the basics in one easy lesson and then enjoy a game that same day.

You improve rather quickly as you begin to appreciate the nuances of the game and learn from others.

The most attractive feature of the game for many is the camaraderie that exists between clubs. When Iluka had its opening in early November players came down from Lismore, Ballina, Casino and Coutts Crossing to assist those novices being introduced to the game. It was a huge success.

(Clockwise from top) Bill Hammond, at 100 years of age, had the honour of hitting the first ball at the Iluka Croquet Club’s inaugural “come and try” and practice day.

Croquet Practice:Iluka-ites turned out in force to sample the joys and challenges of croquet at the Iluka Croquet Club’s inaugural practice day.

Croquet Coaches: Instigator Col Hennessy (centre) is pictured with visiting coaches Fay Ross, Captain of the Lismore Club (left) and Peter Martin, Secretary of the Coutts Crossing Club (right).

CLUB CONTACTS • URUNGA - Rosemary Lloyd - 66551341 • SAWTELL –Helen Chambers -66515541 • WOOLGOOLGA – Jenny Burgess – 66561100 • COUTTS CROSSING – Peter Martin – 66495109 • YAMBA - Ros Higgins -66460235 • ILUKA - Col Hennessy – 0416814911 • CASINO – Margaret Fardell -66626509 • LISMORE –Elaine McCormack – 66280685 • BALLINA -Helen Young -66280682 • BALLINA – Jan Copeland – 66868784 • ALSTONVILLE – Mary Weingrath – 66286583 • BYRON BAY - Graeme Tucker - 66808804

CLUB PROFILES URUNGA: Linked the CEX club in Coffs, it has two full courts and upwards of 40 members. Play golf croquet and association, with a beautiful setting on the river.

They share facilities with the tennis club.

SAWTELL:. Over 100 members which is not surprising given there is no club in Coffs. They play five mornings a week and cover all variations of the game.

WOOLGOOLGA: Play two days a week and have 40 members most of whom are regular participants.

COUTTS CROSSING: With no club at Grafton, their numbers are increasing.

They love to travel and have been responsible for the growth of the game in the Clarence Valley. They play golf croquet mainly with some association. They are in the process of building new greens and are a very progressive club.

YAMBA: Very good numbers regularly attracting up to 40 players on a Tuesday morning. Not linked with CNSW but operate under the banner of the U3a. Do not have their own lawn but use sporting fields provided by the council. Play only golf croquet.

ILUKA: The newest of the clubs on the North Coast. Part of the bowls club,

North Coast Seniors

there is a beautiful ‘boutique’ court (80%). Play only golf croquet at this stage on Fridays and Sundays including twilight games. Nearly 30 regular players at this stage.

CASINO: On the banks of the Richmond, they have two courts with some 30 members. Only play golf croquet at this stage on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Have just attracted funding for a new watering system.

LISMORE: One of the oldest clubs in the state (1931), it is situated in the main street of town with a beautiful lawn surface. They play all three varieties on four days a week with some 40 regular players. Mainly responsible for mentoring the Iluka club.

ALSTONVILLE: They have almost 30 members (but with no men at this stage).

Play Mondays and Thursdays but only have one ground. Share clubhouse with the local hockey team. Play golf and ricochet.

BALLINA: There are two clubs in town to choose from – both using the Cherry Street facilities of the sports complex fields but on different days. Over 100 members in total and have been operating in town for over 80 years BYRON BAY: Their numbers and popularity have struggled with the growth of tourism in the town. Seems all the newcomers are attracted to the beach culture.

They only play association croquet at this stage.

Revolution - January 2017

33

CROSSWORD

A CROSSWORD TO KEEP YOUR BRAIN ACTIVE 1

2

3

4

5

18

6

7

8

9

19

20

24

34

11 21

25 28

33

10

12

Laughter is the best medicine Have you ever wondered what a gardener does when he retires?

13

14

27

30

31

32 36

38

39

40

41

37

42

44

45

47

48

49

50

53

54

57

58

59

60

17 23

35

43

16

22

26

29

15

51

46

52

55

56

61

62

63

64

66

65

67 68

69

70

71

72

73

74 76

83

84

85

77

78

79

80

86

87 91

94

95

92

96

88

98

101

103

118

119

131

126

132 137

107

113

114

121

122

115

127

128

123

133

134

138

139

140

135

141

147

148

149

150

151 154

156

157

158

159 165

164 168 172

173

160

161

162

166 170

174

175 180

188

181

182 189

192

163

167

169

179

183

184

190 193

195

185

186

176

177

178

187 191

194 196

Are you interested in advertising in...

North Coast Seniors

REVOLUT!ON

For advertising information please contact one of our advertising representatives on 02 66469466 or email sales@cvreview.com.au

34

145 152

153

171

136

142 144

146

124

129

143

155

108

117

120 125

130

106

112 116

90

99

105 111

89

102

104 110

82

93

97

100

109

81

75

January 2017 - Revolution

ATTENTION: PUBLICITY OFFICERS! If you are interested in submitting an article about your group and its activities, please email Lynda at contributions@cvreview.com.au to express your interest.

North Coast Seniors

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Ghosts 14 Paid companion 19 Shiver 20 Type of primate 22 Put to death 24 Come to know 25 Harvest 26 The back of anything 27 Salad vegetable 28 Metal joiners 30 Beg 31 Good for solace 33 Illegal entry 36 Repeated a theme 38 Extreme fear 40 Bringing memories 41 Make dirty 43 A body joint 46 Sleeps (coll) 47 Cleaned river bottom 48 Straw bed 50 Crushes up 52 A win 57 Relaxation 60 Mineral deposits 61 Take away breath 63 Of corrupt type 64 Stitches 66 Puppy sound 67 A counter 68 Break 70 Heavy 71 Throw in dump 73 Married 74 Odours 78 Idle chat

79 80 83 86 88 89 92 94 96 98 99 100 101 103 104 105 106 109 112 113 114 116 118 120 122 123 125 126 128 130 135 138 139 141 143 144 146

147 Keen 149 Lured 150 Share out 152 Prised 156 Cow colour 157 Make spirits 159 Drenched 161 Handy tool 164 Piece of music 167 Finished 168 Golfing aid 169 Wide range 170 Finished 171 Money from investment 175 Nerve disease 179 Type of hounds 182 Bad mark 184 Type of sale 188 Lack of money 189 Sharp sound 190 Bull sound 191 Groups of drugs 192 One fleeing 193 Put off 194 Entertainers 195 Bishops etc 196 Public house

Puts off Attempt Creases Very dry Knock over Scatter Shuts Tested Ocean predator A bird call Type of shoe Part of church Climbing plant Scottish musician Close firmly Strong drink Afflicts with pain Extra performance A club The devil Engine expert Stress a joint Equals A lot Large tooth Avoid Be in debt Alter Small shovel One sketching Cut shorter Interfered with Heroic Very steady Type of mist Catch Skin injury

DOWN 2 Cleanse 3 Press down 4 Surges around 5 Simmer 6 Shut firmly 7 With ability 8 For oneself

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 20 21 23 29 32 34 35 36 37 39 42 44 45 49 51 53 54 55 56 58 59 61 62 64 65

In plenty Long-lasting Rows of houses Eye part Hit Prison room Lissom One gluing Spins Crisp Drink as a cat Colour With most sound Let fall Crime against country Transmit Male beasts Become ill Irritates Fragrant Cast slur on Tired Thighbone Things to be learnt Flies in one position Find the answer Game for horsemen Shrill calls One refusing to comply Had private fight Skin colouring Slumbers Slightly dangerous Droop Important

69 72 73 75 76 77 79 81 82 84 85 87 89 90 91 93 95 97 99 102 104 106 107 108 110 111 112 115 117 119 121 124 127 129 131 132 133

Word of honour Portion of something Thin biscuit Woodman Goes by yacht Mature Holds up Travel around Temporary problem Scope for action Slides on belly Weather pattern Sheep watcher Breathed Lost consciousness Plant parts Title for a lady Ovens Tree trunk Cook slowly Transparent Sets of horns Come secretly Biting insect Arrive Bad smelling Read at leisure Released Renew Oarsmen Piece of hair Go against Plant barrier Spent Buns Action Rages

134 136 137 140 142 143 145 148 151 153 154 155 156 158 160 162 163 165 166 172 173 174 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 185 186 187

Distinct outlines Church officer Rocky hill Securing device Friend (coll) Foul smelling Animal Handy items Merciful Take to use Hangs Written works Amount of wool Lorry-driver (US) Determined people Lengthy Lockups Level out Dressed Come to a point Mixup Small fish Greets A compound Beam of light Cricket extras Footwear See Wet lump of earth And not Insincere remark Freezes Common food (coll)

SEE PAGE 42 FOR THE SOLUTIONS

Moving the Clarence Valley Medical Appointments Let the facility/doctor know when you ring to make your appointment you are travelling with Community Transport • Ask how long will the consultation/ procedure take • Ring 6645 3200 to make a booking as soon as you know the appointment time and date Eligibility Criteria may apply for some services

Community Outings • Please phone our friendly booking QHſEGTU VQ GPSWKTG CDQWV VJG UQEKCN outings we have available.

Community Access and Shopping Buses Our buses based in Maclean and Grafton provide regular services on a weekly/fortnightly basis to and from most areas including:• Baryulgil • Brooms Head • Copmanhurst • Glenreagh • Grafton NB: Please • Gulmarrad advise on booking if • Iluka wheelchair • Maclean access is • Wooli required.

• Yamba

Ring 6645 3200 to make a booking

Show us your seniors card for a great morning or afternoon tea cold drink & cookie combo deal* *Offer valid all day from Jan 25 til Feb 25

25 Yamba Street, Yamba (next to Yamba Post Office)

02 6646 2322

Servicing Yamba, Maclean, Iluka (Pick Up at Woombah Woods) to the Ballina Airport MONDAY TO SATURDAY, MEETING MORNING AND AFTERNOON FLIGHTS

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL

For all bookings and enquiries please call

0428 055 479 or 02 6645 3200 or book online at

www.yambashuttle.com.au North Coast Seniors

Revolution - January 2017

35

ARTS & CULTURE

CEX

THE AUSTRALIAN ARMY BAND

The Australian Army Band Newcastle and the Royal Australian Artillery Band Brisbane variety performance will showcase the talent and professionalism of the Australian Army’s soldier musicians.

The musicians, including a Pipes and Drums section, will combine onstage at the here at C.ex Coffs in February.

The Australian Army Band Newcastle has existed as Newcastle’s own Military Band, since its formation with The Newcastle Volunteer Rifles in 1861.Since that time the band has

played an important role in both the military and cultural life of the Hunter Valley region.

The Royal Australian Artillery Band Brisbane have played a pivotal role in supporting and promoting the ADF in South East Queensland for over fifty years. The variety performance caps off several days of performances for various schools and community groups throughout northern NSW. WHEN: Sunday 26 February 11:00 am - 1:00 pm COST: $10

Tweed Regional Gallery The Phantom Art Show – until Sunday 26 February

The exhibition is inspired by the comic book character, is truly for the young at heart. Nostalgic, surprising and fun, this exhibition celebrates the evolution of this unique heroic character over the past 80 years.

Becoming by Susan Kinneally – until Sunday 26 February

Grafton Regional Gallery The Grafton Regional Gallery continues to bring an exciting exhibition program for both Clarence Valley residents and visitors.

February and March will see many musical memories rekindled with What a Life! Rock Photography by Tony Mott on tour from the State Library of New South Wales. In conjunction with International Women’s Day, Women of Yulgilbar will celebrate the lives and contributions of women from this much-loved Clarence River property to the advancement of human rights, science, agriculture, and sport. Clarence Valley artist Chris Hazell’s colourful portraiture will be on show in her solo exhibition Cynosure alongside Gladys O’Grady’s floral paintings and portraiture from the gallery’s collection.

Throughout April the Gallery will be

part of the Clarence Valley’s annual art and culture festival, plunge.

Political cartoons will take centre stage in Behind the Lines, on tour from the Museum of Australian Democracy.

Showcasing 2016’s best Australian political cartoons, Behind the Lines, captures the fearless tradition of our nation’s political cartoonists. Arts Northern Rivers’ If These Halls Could Talk exhibition will bring Frances Belle Parker’s immersive installation to the gallery, exploring the history of the Eatonsville Hall.

Photography will also be a focus with The Daily Examiner’s Special Edition showing alongside plunge festival’s Clarence Valley In Focus.

The final in our floral collection series Flowers III: Beautiful Flowers will also be one not to miss.

8 February – 25 March What a Life!

Rock Photography by Tony Mott Collection: Portraits (8 February – 4 March) Women of Yulgilbar (8 – 25 March) Chris Hazell: Cynosure Collection: Flowers II – Gladys O’Grady

This work began with a course in botanical illustration at the Botanical Gardens in Melbourne and grew into a series of works inspired by the artist’s interest in different realities. One does not Elisabeth Cummings always see it at first, the wrapping P K as the Phantom 2014 of a mermaid’s tail around the stem oil on canvas 70x60cm or an iris, nor the carpet snake Performance by Abbey McCulloch transforming into a Golden Penda.

Tony Mott Chrissy Amphlett 1983.

Image courtesy of the State Library of New South Wales Theodosia Ogilvie 1859. Image courtesy of the State Library of New South Wales

– until Sunday 26 February

Like bursts from a camera shutter the series Performance captures not only the most consciously posed and poised bodies, but those moments in between that reveal the out-takes, where gestures belie the vivacious, confident woman caught only in a millisecond.

A-Z: the alphabet in art Works from the collection – until Sunday 16 July Drawn from our collection, this playful exhibition brings together a curious combination of works inspired by the alphabet. Play the classic game of ‘I Spy’, or create your own game using the artworks as a visual language.

36

January 2017 - Revolution

Margaret Olley: from the collection – until Sunday 7 May This exhibition features an eclectic array of works by Margaret Olley from the Tweed Regional Gallery collection.

Many of these works have never been on public display, such a Kewpie doll painted by Olley when she was just 15 years of age.

Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre 2 Mistral Road Murwillumbah NSW 2484 Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday 10.00am to 5.00pm

29 March – 6 May Behind the Lines: The Year’s Best Political Cartoons If These Halls Could Talk Clarence Valley In Focus DEX: Special Edition

Cathy Wilcox 2016. Image courtesy of the Museum of Australian Democracy (Below) Christine Willcocks Kangaroo Paw - Anigozanthos Manglesii 1999.

Collection: Flowers III – Beautiful Flowers

Grafton Regional Gallery is located at 158 Fitzroy Street, Grafton - 6642 3177 Email: gallery@clarence.nsw.gov.au Opening Hours: 10am-4pm TuesdaySaturday (closed Sunday and Monday)

North Coast Seniors

ARTS & CULTURE

Tweed Regional Museum Village Stories: Uki - Opening 7 February

Special Days coming up at Tweed Regional Museum

Learn some of the secret stories of Uki and discover a collection of local objects, some of which are being displayed for the first time.

This exhibition is a journey through Uki's colourful past, from fancy dress to local tug-o-war heroes.

Grandparents' Day When: Saturday 4 March 10am - 4pm To celebrate the NSW Seniors Festival, Tweed Regional Museum is hosting Grandparents' Day. Together, Grandparents and Grandchildren can enjoy vintage games and dress-ups in the Museum courtyard, or reminisce while exploring historical objects on display.

Thunder eggs from the Museum’s collection.

Thunder eggs: Tweed's hidden gems Opening 28 February These spherical wonders are found in the silica-rich volcanic landscape of the Tweed and tell a story of the molten lava that once flowed through the area over 20 million years ago. As the lava cooled, the trapped gas and minerals produced a stunning array of colour and crystals inside the thunder eggs. Thunder eggs fascinate both young and old, and this display features a wide selection from the Museum's extensive collection.

Uki May Ball poster, 1986. TRM Collection

NORPA

International Women's Day When: Wednesday 8 March, 5pm Come celebrate International Women's Day at the Museum as we highlight women's contribution to the shire across distant, and recent, decades. Special guest, Margot Anthony, will entertain us with recollections of her life-long association with the area.

Entry to the Museum, as well as all exhibitions and events, is FREE. Tweed Regional Museum, 2 Queensland Rd, urwillumbah For more details see our website museum.tweed.nsw.gov.au or call (02) 6670 2493

TUBULAR BELLS

Images: Justin Ealand

Ask anyone who grew up through the '70s and they will be able to tell you exactly where they were when they first heard Tubular Bells.

Composed by Mike Oldfield in 1973, the album was the first release on Richard Branson’s fledgling record label, Virgin Records. The album went on to sell over 30 million copies, kick-starting the Virgin empire.

Now, more than 40 years on, two young Australian multi-instrumentalists, Aidan Roberts and Daniel Holdsworth, are presenting this modern masterpiece in a spectacular live event. So what’s the catch? Oldfield harnessed – what was at the time – the latest in multi-track recording technology, playing a multitude of instruments one-by-one in the studio.

However, in Tubular Bells for Two

North Coast Seniors

there are only two men on stage needing to perform every part live with only four hands and four feet between them.

The duo are literally rushed off their feet as they rush around a sea of instruments. It is an intricately choreographed, thrilling piece of tightrope theatre. Things can go wrong at any moment, and the slightest mistake or misplaced limb can bring the entire show crashing to a halt.

Regardless of whether you’re a Tubular Bells virgin, or long-time fan, Tubular Bells for Two is guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. It is one of the most innovative musical performances to grace the stage in many years.

WHERE: Lismore City Hall WHEN: Saturday 25 March 7.30pm

Tweed Regional Museum is one of the jewels in the area’s cultural trail, preserving the Tweed’s unique history and heritage and bringing it to life.

Permanent displays provide insight to Tweed Shire’s settlement and development.

Its changing displays ensure there is always something new to see, showcasing the Tweed Regional Museum’s substantial collection, as well as contemporary stories about places, events and people significant to the Tweed community.

Free admission

W

museum.tweed.nsw.gov.au

Open Tuesday to Saturday

T

(02) 6670 2493

10am–4pm (DST)

A

2 Queensland Road, Murwillumbah NSW

Revolution - January 2017

37

TRAVEL

Evans Head well worth a visit

Enjoy the local hospitality Picturesque Evans Head is located at the mouth of Evans River and is a short 7km drive off the Pacific Highway from Woodburn. Nestled amongst national parks the small fishing village is definitely worth exploring.

A popular spot for fishing, surfing and swimming, it also boasts its own ship wreck which can be seen on the beach north of the town. The 1984 wreck is of the two masted timber schooner 'Pilot' which was on a voyage between Melbourne and the Richmond River.

Whilst seeing the sights of Evans Head it is worth visiting the Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome Heritage Aviation Museum.

Whether your planning a day visit or looking at a longer stay, whilst in Evans Head, make sure you take the time to call into the Woodburn Evans Head RSL Club.

Situated on the banks of the Evans River, in Evans Head, is the Woodburn Evans Head RSL Club.

Complete with all club facilities, including large LCD TVs, free pool tables and nibbles on every bar, this modern club is a fantastic place to enjoy lunch or dinner, or relax with mates over a glass of beer.

Imagine enjoying freshly cooked

steak and seafood, or a chilled glass of wine, all the while overlooking the beautiful Evans River, soaking in the laid back holiday atmosphere .

The floor to ceiling windows in the upstairs area provide magnificent views of the Evans River and the River Bistro restaurant has a mouth watering menu with a range of meal options to suit all tastes at affordable prices.

The club is also a great venue for all your functions from birthdays, engagement parties to weddings and the staff are always more than happy to help with your planning.

It is located at 11-13 McDonald Place or you can call them on 6682 4282. This is a great little club and well worth checking out.

WOODBURN EVANS HEAD RSL CLUB Woodburn Evans Head RSL Club is situated on the banks of the beautiful Evans River in Northern NSW. Being just over 700km from Sydney and approx 240km from Brisbane makes Evans Head the ideal choice for your next holiday.

With its Temperate climate and its laid back life style, Evans Head truly is a hidden paradise.

The RSL Club is also the perfect venue for all functions, weddings are a specialty with a huge room downstairs with fully equipped bar facilities. Full catering services are available at reasonable prices, so book early for that special day.

8SVWDLUV Ă RRU WR FHLOLQJ JODVV ZLQGRZV RYHUORRN WKH Evans River, large LCD TV's for your viewing pleasure, free pool tables, Keno, TAB, great food, always nibbles on the bar, Great beer and spirits ensures a very laid back day.

The huge Auditorium downstairs with FULL bar facilities available IRU DOO \RXU QHHGV IURP D ELUWKGD\ SDUW\ WR DQ RIĂ&#x20AC;FLDO GLQQHU We will look after you.

McDonald Place, Evans Head NSW 2473 73 (02) 6682 4282 (02) 6682 4179 www.woodburnevansheadrsl.com.au

38

January 2017 - Revolution

North Coast Seniors

TRAVEL

canada alaska britain greece europe asia africa

Travel the world with Casino Travel Shoppe Are you looking at traveling in a group environment, meeting new friends and enjoying the amazing scenic wonders of our ever changing world?

The Casino Travel Shoppe team have prepared a wide range of Group Travel options for 2017 and added a small number of selected Cruise and Rail journey options for you to choose your next adventure.

For the stay in Australia travelers, we have selected escorted tours covering every state including the Top End (some including the Ghan), the Kimberley, Western Australia, Tasmania, Great Ocean Road and Kangaroo Island, and some selected Ocean Cruise options including the Melbourne Cup. Always a favorite destination,

Canada and Alaska and USA is well covered from East to West including the Rockies, the glaciers, snow-capped mountains, azure blue lakes, and we have now included tours to the Grand Canyon, the amazing formations of the National Parks of Utah, Arizona and Wyoming including Yellowstone, and a tour from Nashville to New Orleans.

Our Britain and Ireland with Edinburgh Tattoo is nearly full, however we provided a wide range of options including Italy, Greece, Greek Island Cruising, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve covered the best of traditional European destinations, with Ireland, Scotland, Portugal, Spain, Slovenia, and Croatia as well as Moscow, St Petersburg, Scandinavia and Iceland with three

popular Europe River Cruises and a Mediterranean Adriatic and Aegean Sea Cruise, so much to choose from.

We have included two great tours to South America covering spectacular Rio, Iguassu Falls and the icons of Peru with Machu Picchu and a cruise to Antarctica in February 2018.

In Asia we have Japan, China, Tibet, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand included in a variety of tours.

Finally Africa for the sense of adventure, the animals in the wild, Cape Town, Table Mountain and the power of Victoria Falls.

For 2017 the Casino Travel Shoppe have you covered in our Group Departure Book, get your copy today.

Casino Travel Shoppe

2017 Group Tours Book Now Available!

GREAT HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS G DESTTINA ATIONS TO CHOOSE FROM!

To secure your copy contact the Casino Travel Shoppe 109 Barker Street CASINO NSW 2470 P: 6662 6255 F: 6662 6070 E: casino.travel@bigpond.com New Website: www.casinotravel.com.au North Coast Seniors

Revolution - January 2017

39

TRAVEL

Discover Yamba's beauty

It doesn't get better than this How often do you visit an area without ever really knowing what it is like? Without the knowledge of a local, you can frequently miss much of the beauty of an area and many of its attractions. This is why it really pays to take a tour.

Yamba Tours is run by Rick and Vickie to showcase the Clarence Valley and its surrounding areas and reveal the natural beauty to those who may never have really experienced this picturesque area before.

Catering mainly to seniors groups, the tours are fun, informative and entertaining. Each day consists of a different drive through the area and guests are invited to take part in nature walks, shopping expeditions, sightseeing and tours through the many museums, and galleries this area has to offer.

Rick drives the coach and has an extensive knowl-

edge of the local area and its history. Vickie as hostess ensures everyone is comfortable and enjoying themselves. She also home cooks most of the tasty morning teas and lunches herself making as much use of the local produce as possible. All dietary requirements are catered for.

Rick and Vickie pride themselves on being professional and providing personal service with a smile to all guests, whilst ensuring they enjoy their stay and see all the Clarence Valley has to offer.

Yamba Tours is a great way for you or your community group to experience your 'own backyard'.

The tours are for five nights and four days with guests arriving on Sunday and departing the following Friday or you can grab a group of 30 or more for a personalised valley highlights day tour. For information and bookings phone free call 1800 813 033 or email info@yambatours.com.au.

YAMBA TOURS

Recently refurbished the Aston Motel is one of Yamba’s premier accommodation venues. Ideally located near the heart of Yamba it is a short stroll to the town’s shopping precinct, clubs, restaurants, and beaches.

The Aston Motel will provide you with some of the most delightful options for quiet motel accommodation. Complete with all modern facilities such as swimming pool and BBQ area, this truly is a great option for those looking for an affordable place to relax and unwind. You can also enjoy a home cooked breakfast whilst staying there.

When it comes to providing tourists with exactly what they need the Aston Motel is truly one of the best Yamba has to offer. It is Yamba Tours preferred accommodation location.

The Aston Motel is located at 37 Coldstream Street, Yamba. Contact them for reservations or more details on 6646 2199. Check them out on Trip Advisor.

Images: Graham Dowsett

NEWLY RENOVATED

Aston Motel ACCOMMODATION FOR INDIVIDUALS & LARGE GROUPS • Air Conditioned • Spa Units • Hot Breakfast

Escape... Explore... Enjoy...

• Close to all facilities #NAA 4Eê

TWO FANTASTIC ITINERARIES CLARENCE VALLEY EXPLORER TOUR $ PP & CLARENCE VALLEY ESCAPE TOUR TWIN SHARE

780

5 Nights/4 Days including home cooked meals. Breakfast, delicious morning teas, BBQ & Prawn/Chicken Lunch, Two Course Evening Meals. Travel in air-conditioned luxury with local knowledge, local driver & local tour director showcasing the Clarence Valley.

COMFORTABLE ACCOMMODATION AT

ALL INCLUSIVE TOURS! CONTACT VICKIE AND RICK LEA FOR AN INFORMATION PACK

P: 1800 813 033 E: www.yambatours.com.au 40

January 2017 - Revolution

Quiet location off the Main Road

CHECK US OUT ON

02 6646 2199 37 Coldstream Street Yamba 2464 North Coast Seniors

TRAVEL

GET AWAY FROM IT ALL RELAX UNWIND Sometimes you just want to get away from it all. Go somewhere tranquil and relaxing without having to travel too far, but far enough to feel like you have left everything behind you.

Somewhere where you can just sit and enjoy the views and immerse yourself in the peace and tranquillity this unique location has to offer. Perhaps you will want to be a little more adventurous and explore the World Heritage National Park as well as the many other attractions Dorrigo and the surrounding countryside has to offer.

The Lookout Mountain Retreat, just 4 km’s east of the township of Dorrigo and adjacent to the Dorrigo national Park, is just that place. Situated on 16 acres of pastoral land, the Lookout Mountain Retreat is perfectly positioned on the edge of the escarpment of the Dorrigo Plateau with magnificent views across the Bellinger Valley to the ocean. The stunning landscaped gardens with expansive manicured lawns and a backdrop of beautiful ornamental trees are perfect for idling the time away.

The Lookout Mountain Retreat comprises 26 beautifully appointed suites and family units complete with undercover walkways and onsite conference facilities. The Lookout can easily cater for large groups, wedding receptions, and corporate events.

The 80 seat dining room is open for bookings on Friday and Saturday evenings and is an iconic landmark of the area with its unique architecturally designed interior spaces showcasing large roughly hewn timber posts and beams and huge double stone fireplaces, the perfect place to stay for that relaxing winter getaway or that special event.

For those wanting to venture outdoors, the Dorrigo World Heritage National Park is an area of exceptional natural beauty with its pristine waterfalls and souring rainforest canopy.

The Rainforest Centre is home to the Skywalk treetop walk providing dramatic views over the rainforest canopy. There are numerous walking tracks of varying degrees, for every level of fitness, as well as open

picnic areas to stop for lunch.

Take the time to take in the flora and fauna that abounds in the rainforest or be amazed by the spectacular panoramic view of the Great Dividing Range from Griffiths Lookout. The majestic beauty of Dangar Falls located only two kilometres from the township of Dorrigo is a must see for photographers and is a favourite swimming place for locals.

So how do you get to Lookout Mountain Retreat?

Approximately 4kms east of Dorrigo township when you reach the top of Waterfall Way the landscape opens to open farmland… keep an eye out for the large “Lookout Mountain Retreat” sign on the left. Turn into Maynards Plains Road and then left into the driveway of the Retreat. (Heavy vehicles should use the second entrance) Pull into the undercover parking area outside main reception.

For bookings, phone 02 6657 2511 or visit www.lookoutmountainretreat.com.au.

Lookout Mountain Retreat is located at 15 Maynards Plains Road, Dorrigo Mountain.

ENJOY THE NATURAL BEAUTY

15 Maynards Plains Road Dorrigo Mountain NSW 2453 . Q Q M Q W V

/QWPVCKP

4'64'#6

ur

rbo

Ha ffs

Co

Phone: 02 6657 2511

& 1 4 4 + ) 1 / 1 7 0 6 # + 0 0 5 9

North Coast Seniors

Revolution - January 2017

41

TRAVEL

Lest We Forget tour

Our Lest We Forget tour is a poignant reflection on how wars have shaped our nation. Join us as we travel to Canberra to attend the Remembrance Day service and reflect on lives lost during the Last Post ceremony.

shrine, a world-class museum, and an extensive archive.

The highlight of our tour takes place today. Attendance of the Remembrance Day service commencing at 10:30am.

We will depart the hotel at 9:30am allowing some time to soak up the atmosphere before the ceremony. Upon conclusion of the ceremony more time is allocated to look around the memorial some more. After a rest and refresh at the hotel it is back to the memorial for the Last Post Ceremony We are hoping to obtain approval for one of our tour members to lay a wreath at some point in day. Then onto a special dinner at the Burns Club.

We take in the city sights of Canberra including Mount Ainslie and the Embassies and Duntroon. You may also wish to visit Old Parliament or New Parliament houses Travelling via Bateman's Bay we stop in Nowra at the Fleet Air Arm Museum.

The Museum boasts a 6,000m2, two-storey exhibition centre, souvenir shop, function centre, theatre and airfield viewing platform. A short hop up the road to Wollongong where we have an afternoon guided tour of Smith’s Hill Fort.

We take a leisurely drive through to Sydney where you have the choice of visiting either the Australian National Maritime Museum in Darling Harbour or

Highlights of the tour include: A visit to the Woolgoolga RSL club where we get to see the well-kept War Memorial, the Iroquois Helicopter commemorating those who died in Vietnam, and the mural on the club’s outer wall painted by local Ashley Johnston (aka Ash Nozzle Finger). We continue through to Kempsey with an afternoon stop at the Slim Dusty Museum, before travelling to Port Macquarie for the night We visit Fighter World, a museum dedicated to preserving the history of the RAAF. Perched on the Observation Deck you can witness the various aircraft of the RAAF’s premier Fighter Squadrons take-off and land while listening to all the action on the live audio feed direct from the Williamtown Control Tower. Following this we will visit Fort Scratchley ending the day at Campbelltown.

In Canberra, we dine onsite at the Australian War Memorial for lunch before spending the afternoon at leisure exploring some of the facility. The Australian War Memorial combines a

Lest We Forget To u r

the RAN Centre at Potts Point.

We visit Cockatoo Island for a guided tour. During World War II, Cockatoo Island was the main ship repair facility in the southwest Pacific.

We travel to Singleton where we visit the Australian Army Infantry Museum.

Gallipoli, The Somme, Tobruk, The Kokoda Trail, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan are all bought to life along with less familiar deployments.

We continue on to Tamworth, Australia’s home of country music

visiting The Big Golden Guitar Tourist Centre. This is not only for country music fans but also houses The Collectors Museum featuring Sir Donald Bradman.

Then home via Glenn Innes, with a look at the Standing Stones.

Don't miss this fantastic tour. Call Riverland Travel today to book your place or to find out more.

Riverland Travel is located at 191 River Street, Maclean and you can contact them on 6645 2017.

Crossword Solution S P E B U R E R G I T R E S E T L O I N D E S C O M F L E V U W E D D E A F O L D A E T R R I L A T C I U D M P E E R O I D R A W O E L R B L I S S S B C O D A L R I N T E A P P O T E S P R E

C T R E S L O T A L I S E M L W P A S S T E W A R E D G E A S O R T Y A P N S E D S R S A R I L I P I A L L E T S N H E N C O R R O A S M A N E K E R T M F O G T E R T A R I N D L D O P U R E S T A P B V E R T Y E A E L A T E S

S A R E M B L A L E L D E R R R R O R E P D P A L O E E L O D E S E S N A P O T R N G O S S D M I F D S H A A V E I M N E B A T R E Y O D O W E M S S O L E S T V O E A G E R M A M E D I S N G T T E R T A S S E T O S S C A P E K Y

P R D E L E M U R R E A P R E S P L E A D O E B N O S T A L G A E E L E T M P W S M O T H E L L I N E R O U S E T I P D E L A S E E C L O S E R K A I V Y B L S R U O N A S P R A I N E S C H A N G E E O E D V A L I G A O E N T I C E E K T I L S E F A A M P L I T U M A T S S T A I N T O O T R O E D E F E R R N D

T L C C E X E C U T E A R N F L R E S T F U L A R I C D E F I L E A N A S H E S S U O O U R V E N A L I E T S C R A P P E D K S A D Y S T R Y T C C D O S L E U T R I L L B R E M O M A A I L S S A T A N E N E T E S L F A T R O W E L K R U R C A N T S L O W N L N D A L L O T I E O O D D E N U T I I R D E C E A S E H N A U C T I O N A R A C O D A N C E R S S T S H

A L I E T H R E E T C C H S B A G S W N A O G M G I D N G E P N A L P E N N D S H A P I L O S

L G I R L L E T U C E E L P R I S E R F K I P E S S M R U T U R E R R B G E S M E L L N S T R E H E U E S P I P E H I N E E R R E D O D G P L O P P E O L B S D E V E R E A R S I L T O V E N I N G L E I A A T E S R E T E L R Y

L O U D E S T S

S A W Y E R F R E E D

D P R I S O N S

8 T H - 1 6T H N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 7 TOUR INCLUSIONS: • Quality Accommodation • Fleet Air Arm Museum • Cockatoo Island • Full Day at the AWM • Last Post Ceremony • Houses of Parliament

Be present for the Remembrance Day Service at the War Memorial

• Australian Maritime Museum & the RAN Centre • Big Golden Guitar • Luxury Coach Travel • Meals Included - 8 Breakfast, 6 Lunches, 4 Dinners

• Australian Military Museum • Slim Dusty Museum

PRICES PP TWIN SHARE RSL Sub Branch Members

$

Pickup Locations:

2,495

Non Members

$

2,575

Tweed Heads, Ballina, Maclean, Grafton

Single Supplement

$

650

Come in and see the team at Riverland Travel to book now! 191 River St, Maclean Ph: 6645 2017

42

January 2017 - Revolution

North Coast Seniors

TRAVEL

Heaven and Earth South Africa offers much to the tourist. From safaris, gourmet food, and wine, surfing, hiking, and resorts, there is much to see and do. The scenery is amazing as are the villages, towns, and cities. It is a captivating and fascinating nation that excites the senses.

One of the most popular drives for tourists starts just along the beautiful coast from Cape Town. Called The Garden Route, it winds through magnificent forests as well as along the famous beaches.

Drive over Sir Lowry’s Pass and on a clear day you will see some of Cape Town’s southern suburbs. If you would like to take a photo of the breath-taking sights, then take care. There are signs that warn you of baboons (or ‘bobbejaan’) that like to ‘meet’ tourists, and they may not be as friendly as other locals.

Whilst it’s tempting to drive straight along to Plettenburg Bay or Port Elizabeth, spending some time in the first

part of the Garden Route is a lovely surprise. Locals helped us plan a very interesting trip that may not be as well-known among tourists.

Explore Hermanus, for example, located around 1.5 hours east of Cape Town.

Famed for the whales that visit each year in Walker Bay (it’s claimed you are ‘almost guaranteed’ to see them between September, and November), it is well worth a stopover. Locals claim that one of the ‘best-kept secrets’ in Hermanus is Rotary Way Scenic Drive, that allows a panoramic view of the stunning Walker Bay. Hermanus offers a wide range of accommodation – from camping to bed and breakfast establishments to up-market hotels. There are also numerous cafes, restaurants, bars and wine farms to visit and arts and crafts to explore. Their Wine Village proudly claims it is ‘one of S.A.’s best wine shops’ (they’re not wrong). If you would like to visit a winery, then not

This is Australia‘s number one retirement lifestyle book. The Weeks’ have visited over 200 locations around Australia to come up with the best Australia has to offer and included tips, the hotspots and local knowledge. Two editions of Where To Retire In Australia have proved popular with practical advice, tips, maps, great photographs and covers recreation, real estate, climate, shopping, dining, transport, retirement villages, pet ownership…to name but a few of the essential topics they cover.

The enterprising couple have travelled thousands of kilometres around Australia to find the best retirement spots.

To purchase a copy visit www.where2now.net

far from Hermanus are many from which to choose, including in the ‘Hemel en Aarde’ (Heaven and Earth) Valley. This is a perfect name for the area.

For a different trip, leave Hermanus, travel through Swellendam (which has lovely examples of Cape Dutch architecture), and arrive at Calitzdorp famous for its port wine. When driving in South Africa it’s always wise to check ahead for road conditions. (Locals with a sense of humour in one section had placed a sign that said: ‘Extreme Danger. Fasten Seatbelts, Remove Dentures’).

From Calitzdorp the next ‘must do’ stop is Oudtshoorn, which is known as the ‘Ostrich capital of the world’. There are ostrich farms to visit, but you can also see the birds along the roadside in their paddocks. They are curious creatures and take a keen interest in tourists taking photos of them. Another attraction not far from Oudtshoorn is the Cango Caves.

Bookings are essential and a guide will lead you through the amazing limestone formations.

Along from Oudtshoorn is a different place to stay. The Oulap Country house is situated high on a hill with sweeping views and is run by a couple, one of whom is a former movie director (and colourful raconteur). His stories are as amazing as their impressive home. It is a magical experience to stay there. The home has all the comforts many travelers prefer: large bedrooms, lounge, library, pool, a magnificent dining room with enormous dining table and large stained glass window from Leeds (’from a church being demolished’). Around every

corner, there is a visual surprise. Our storyteller joins us after dinner, with conversations about the movies he directed, South Africa and projects he has worked on with locals to assist them to become financially independent. Interesting and interested, the hosts are welcoming and make the stay special.

From Oulap, make your way down the Robinson Pass, one of the many mountain passes that have magnificent views and ‘sweeping’ corners. A welcome and refreshing stop along the way is to have a cup of tea, or stay, at the Eight Bells Mountain Inn that has been welcoming travelers for over 80 years.

A little further down is the harbour town Mossel Bay, which is about halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.

There are some fascinating museums to visit, beautiful beaches to stroll and, for the adventurous, there is also ship wreck diving, snorkeling, bungee jumping, eco-tourism and many other activities.

This part of the world is certainly ‘Hemel en Aarde’ (heaven and earth).

• Parking for Buses

www.byronbaycampers.com.au

RENT ONE OF OUR CAMPER VANS,MOTOR HOMES, CARS OR STORAGE SPACES TODAY! BYRON BAY CAMPERS - 0422 272 510 Shed 2, 6 Southern Cross Dr, Ballina North Coast Seniors

91 Hare St, Casino Ph: 6662 1777

• Licensed Restaurant • 30 Rooms • 3.5 Star S ar Rating ating

info@casinomotorinn.com.au Revolution - January 2017

43

TRAVEL

Camp cooking Travel - tailor made for you made easy

Our team at Helloworld Lismore City provides tailor-made holidays designed around your personal interests, individual needs and budget.

Wherever your destination, our team likes nothing more than sharing our insider tips and suggestions. We can arrange all the travel essentials such as visas, travel insurance, transfers, car hire, group travel as well as independent itineraries and fully escorted tours.

Helloworld Lismore City is a locally owned and managed travel agency that has been operating for over 16 years.

In 2013, Betty-Anne Durheim, took ownership and the agency changed from Travelworld to the Helloworld group.

As a Helloworld agency we are able to offer exclusive deals to our clients. We take great pride in the fact that we find the best value offers combined with a travel plan to suit your needs. Travel can be organised in-store, over the telephone or via email.

We have a Groups Consultant that can work with your club or community group in creating tailor made, fully-escorted journeys. We also work with well-known reputable travel companies to offer special package deals. One of our favourite upcoming trips is the seven day fully escorted “Ultimate Outback”

Queensland rail adventure traveling on Queensland’s famous “Spirit of the Outback” train from Brisbane. Visit the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Qantas Founders Museum. Travel along the old mail route in a genuine Cobb & Co Stagecoach. Cruise the Thomson River at sunset, experience a stockman’s campfire dinner and follow the dinosaur trail at Winton. Traveling with an experienced tour group escort means you can relax and fully immerse yourself in this incredible adventure. Seniors and singles rates are available for this package. Call our team on 0266 276100 or email us at lismorecity@helloworld. com.au and we will be happy to help you with this tour or any travel enquiry you may have.

Whether your travel plans involve guided or independent touring, river or ocean cruising, rail travel or car rental, our personal service, and touch will help ensure your holiday memories last a lifetime.

GREAT SOUTHERN RAIL ADVENTURE

ULTIMATE OUTBACK RAIL JOURNEY

SPIRIT OF THE OUTBACK, LONGREACH, WINTON, BRISBANE

INDIAN PACIFIC, ADELAIDE, PERTH CITY SIGHTS TOUR, SWAN RIVER CRUISE, MARGARET RIVER

THE GHAN, ALICE SPRINGS, KATHERINE, DARWIN CITY TOUR, LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK, DARWIN HARBOUR CRUISE

7 days from *

8 days from *

7 days from *

$3050

per person twin share

$3999

$3499

per person twin share

per person twin share

INCLUDES: • One way travel on the Spirit of the Outback from Brisbane to Longreach – First Class Sleeper • Exclusive escorted group tour • 5 night’s accommodation in Longreach

INCLUDES: • 3 nights Gold Service on the Indian Pacific from Sydney to Perth • Off Train Excursions while on the Indian Pacific • 3 nights Holiday Inn Perth

INCLUDES: • Accommodation in Adelaide (Crowne Plaza) & Darwin (Hilton) • 2 nights Gold Service on The Ghan from Adelaide to Darwin • Off train excursion tours while on The Ghan

Departures: 9th May, 27th Jun, 18th Jul 2017

Departures: 5th Jul, 9th Aug 2017

Departures: 27th May, 29th Jul, 26th Aug, 23rd Sep 2017

NEW FULLY ESCORTED RAIL TOUR

tious camp oven meals, steaks or even breakfast without the hassle of carting a trailer load of firewood. The Kingaroy Choofer fits neatly into a milk sized crate for easy packing and transportation and you can store your camp oven inside.

With the lid on and camp oven inside resting on the crossbars, it becomes an oven within an oven, requiring minimum heat which is controlled by the position of the chimney damper.

Remove the Choofer lid and place a piece of mesh on top of the lower half for boiling the billy or making toast.

The large door allows you to use long limbs of wood or you can use charcoal or heat beads.

With the door closed, your fire is safely contained inside the Choofer and positioned on a stand, has been used in National Parks where open fires are banned (permission must be sought and granted).

Australian made, the Kingaroy Choofer is quickly getting a great reputation and is fast becoming a popular accessory for campers. It comes in 3 sizes and 9 colours to suit all requirements.

You will absolutely love how easy and practical your Choofer is to use.

With the Kingaroy Choofer, your days of traveling and camping will be made a much easier and enjoyable experience for many years to come.

THE KINGAROY CHOOFER

HELLO ADVENTURES

ULTIMATE OUTBACK QUEENSLAND ADVENTURE

If you’re dreaming of packing up the car and caravan and exploring Australia, or just want to pitch a tent and enjoy the great outdoors then you really need the versatility of a Kingaroy Choofer - a great camp oven cooker/fireplace for all your cooking and heating needs.

The Kingaroy Choofer was designed and is built in Kingaroy QLD, by a husband and wife couple who love traveling and wanted an easy to store and lightweight camp oven cooker to take traveling.

Sturdy and compact, the Choofer has many uses when you are in your home away from home.

Keep yourself warm through the cold nights and cook lots of scrump-

BONUS DARWIN SUNSET DINNER CRUISE

helloworld Lismore City

A great versatile versat camp oven cooker for all your cooking & heating needs on the road

THE CT PERFE N IO ADDIT UR TO YO OR ER CAMP VAN CARA

Shop 6, Conway Plaza, 21 Conway Street, LISMORE, NSW 2480 (02) 6627 6100 lismorecity@helloworld.com.au *Conditions apply, for full terms and conditions please see in store. Offer valid until 9 Feb 17. Prices correct as at 9 Jan 17 but may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change. Offers subject to availability. Agents may charge service fees, rates vary. Payments by credit card will incur a surcharge. Airfares not included unless otherwise stated. All savings are included in the advertised price. Offers may be withdrawn without notice and are not combinable with any other offers unless stated.

Please check all prices, availability and other information before booking. Sunlover Holidays and Helloworld booking terms and conditions apply, see in store for details.

44

January 2017 - Revolution

Contained, Safe Camp Oven Cooking

www.thekingaroychoofer.com.au North Coast Seniors

TRAVEL

Decision made easy!

Clarence Valley Ramblers are the local chapter of the CMCA (the Campervan & Motorhome Club of Australia). They are the biggest RV club in the Southern Hemisphere with over 66,000 members and were established in 1986. Our group has 88 member vehicles from Wiz-bangs, caravans, an imported American RV, to a totally refitted bus.

The wealth of knowledge of our country and the best places to stay, along with the dos and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ts of motorhoming are shared by all.

We meet every month at a different venue, for a weekend of fun, laughter, friendship and to plan coming outings. We have theme weekends, bush camping etc, something for everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s taste. We will celebrate our 19th birthday this year with a huge cake. Our Christmas party and our birthday are always a buffet feast of humungous proportions, while our Christmas in July, is a spit roast with soup and vegies. We celebrate Mothers and Fathersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Day usually with a breakfast or BBQ. We enjoy tag-a-longs to various festivals and an occasional show throughout the year. Eight of our group even enjoyed a cruise last year.

We are lucky to have some talented members who provide our entertainment. With John on keyboards, Barry on guitar and Belinda our songstress, we are never short of some music to sing along too or have that dance. We also have a group of ukelele players and a couple who can teach rock n roll and line dancing. We play disc bowls, Finska, card and board games, as well as raffle dice and the extremely popular grocery grab.

We welcome new members, and anyone interested in finding out more information on the group, please ph the secretary Carol Randall 0472517170

take the time to explore the visually stunning Blue and Green Pools at Angourie and also the world renown Angourie Surfing Reserve, all adjacent to tranquil walks through the national parks.

With everything you need right at your doorstep, the decision to head to the Northern Rivers area has never been easier. You will find the quiet alternative that is Fishing Haven Holiday Park only two hours from the Gold Coast, and even less to Coffs Harbour, Ballina, and Lismore. So, come take a moment with us but don't forget to book. Fishing Haven Holiday Park can be found at 35 River Road, Palmers Island or please contact them by calling 02 6646 0163, or email info@fishinghaven.com.au. You can also check out their website for more information at www.fishinghaven.com.au Hope to see you all soon.

FR I E N D LY

Absolute Waterfront

ET

PARK

Great Fishing 3 fishing jetties

Cabins & Onsite Vans

Powered Sites ZZZ Ă&#x20AC;VKLQJKDYHQ FRP DX

North Coast Seniors

CVIŠ161012

and for your convenience, there is a camp kitchen, including a large freezer thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s big enough to store that â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get away!

Another big â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;thumbs upâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for Fishing Haven Holiday Park is that they are pet-friendly all year round so no family member misses out on a break-away.

Whilst you are in this part of the world, take the short drive into the beautiful coastal township of Yamba and explore this picturesque hamlet. Amongst the array of cafĂŠâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, boutiques, award winning restaurants and sporting clubs, there is something for everyone. If you are a nature enthusiast, you will discover that you are spoilt for choice. There are eleven pristine beaches in the area to take your pick from; either for a dip in the ocean or a romantic walk along this spectacular coastline. When you are out and about,

Ramblers

P

With the excitement of the festive season behind us and the hustle and bustle of holidays at a close, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to take a moment.

Maybe sit back and take a moment or two. But where to go? Well, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a decision made easy for you. Simply hook up your van, fuel up the motorhome or just pack a suitcase and head towards the Fishing Haven Holiday Park, found right on the banks of the magnificent Clarence River.

In this peaceful park, you will find a variety of camping sites for all shapes and sizes of van or perhaps fully self-contained cabin accommodation is more your speed. Fishing Haven Holiday Park boasts three well-positioned jetties. So, remember to pack the fishing rods. There are two bbq areas to choose from for you to tell your tall tales aka fishing stories

Join the

Pet Friendly

5LYHU 5RDG 9LD *LOOLHV /DQH 3DOPHUV ,VODQG 16: Â&#x2021; Â&#x2021; Ă&#x20AC;VKLQJKDYHQ@outlook.com

Revolution - January 2017

45

TRAVEL

WRAP UP AND GET READY FOR Motorhome THE GREATEST Winter Escapes... ADVENTURE YET! Get Ready to Roll Head North for Winter Warmth or South for Serenity

Image: : Bowen Tourism & Business Location: Grays Bay, Bowen (Top of the Whitsundays, Queensland)

I was chatting to some grandparents about their journeys in their motorhome and was amused to hear their “winter policy”......head north and avoid their grandchildren who invariably transferred their winter cold germs to them. I immediately started Image: John Warden wondering if my parents avoided visiting my children in Winter, dark winter’s night in a motorhome, safe it makes so much sense! No offense and cosy. Or watching the fog clear as kids! the sun rises on a crispy morning.

I have a relative who prefers to travel Whatever your preference, with south for winter, seeking the cold. He’s Summer slowly slipping away from us, not a big lover of crowds. He sends mes- now is the time to start planning your sages boasting of how he has the whole Winter escape. Maybe you’d like to campsite to himself in Tasmania, South travel with friends, a convoy of motorAustralia, Victoria, or inland NSW....... homes and caravans diverging and not another person in site. No surprise reconnecting, meandering, pleasing yourmaybe they’re at the local pub bathing in selves. The choice is yours. the warmth of an open fire.

Where will you roll?

Most people prefer basking in the Kelly Rynkiewicz from Rolling Resorts northern sun. But each to his own!

- your friendly local motorhome hire Although there is something to be said option. Contact@rollingresorts.com about snuggling under a doona on a cold, www.rollingresorts.com 0417 158 289

Personal, Friendly Service LOCAL MOTORHOME HIRE!

Where will you Roll?

• Unlimited kilometres • Comprehensive insurance for 25-75 year old drivers • Drive on a standard car licence • 24/7 Roadside Assist • No hidden extras • Long-term rental discounts • Extended lesson on handover

• Luxury for the price of ordinary!

• Two living areas • Separate toilet & shower • Electric bed - lowers and rises at the push of a button • Lots of kitchen bench space • Automatic gearbox and power steering - so easy to drive you’ll forget it’s a motorhome

The visual beauty of rugged mountains rising dramatically from the ocean... the majestic icebergs... the diverse and awe-inspiring wildlife. A trip to Antarctica really is a once in a lifetime experience.

Anyone who has visited the big white continent will agree when we say that you leave Antarctica with a lasting belief that you are incredibly privileged to have shared the land and waters with its natural inhabitants.

Being up close and personal with the penguins is truly magical; watching their antics as they squabble while building nests with their lifelong partners.

They are such charac-

ters, the way the duck and dive and waddle and slide!

If you have always dreamed of the stunning scenery and unique wildlife of Antarctica, but have been put off by the world’s roughest waters of the Drake Passage, did you know that you can now fly across the passage, then cruise the relatively calm waters of Antarctica before flying back to South America?

Choose from a selection

of cruise and fly-cruise options.

If you have any questions or would like to begin planning your holiday, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Margie has experienced Antarctica first hand and would love to share her passion with you.

Visit us in store at 80 Main Street, Alstonville (opposite the pub), email us travel@dcmtravel.com.au or give us a call on 02 6628 3701.

Have you been dreaming of exploring Antarctica?

Now is your chance, with more travel options than ever before!

CALL KELLY TO CHAT ABOUT THE POSSIBILITIES OR FOR A FREE QUOTE - 0417 158 289 Email: contact@rollingresorts.com Website: www.rollingresorts.com

46

January 2017 - Revolution

North Coast Seniors

Serving the area for over 23 years NOW OPEN SUNDAYS

FEDERAL

SPECIALISING IN OFF GRID BATTERY STORAGE SYSTEMS!

FREE Y R E T T A B CHECK

• Design & Install: Solar Equipment on Homes & Dual Battery Systems on Caravans & RV’s • Mobile Phone & Hard to Find Batteries

SHOPRIDER MOBILITY RANGE Information & pricing Electric Scooter available

Wheelchair

Electric Chair

B A T T E R I E S F O R E V ERYTHING! 135 Fitzroy St, Grafton 24HR Ph: 6642 7314 M: 0427 788 506

Chair & Scooter Ramps

+ 24 HOU MOBILE R OUT SER CALL VICE

Alex is 90 and still growing At Whiddon we believe in caring for the whole person. It means ensuring that the older people we support can still enjoy doing the things that matter to them: gardening, art, singing, even raising chooks. It helps people stay socially engaged, active and make the most of every day.

With 70 years experience, our award winning approach makes Whiddon a leader in residential and in-home aged care.

Casino • Kyogle • Grafton • Maclean • Tweed Heads whiddon.com.au 1300 738 388