Bowling & Lifestyle Magazine Winter 2024

Photo:Pierre Fromentin/MSF

2024 AUSTRALIAN OPEN: FINAL DAY RECAPA PERSON IN AN ORANGE SHIRT

The concluding day of the 2024 Australian Open proved to be one of the most thrilling in event history with a plethora of players etching their names into tournament folklore after the final disciplines saw their champions crowned. Following the final presentation, Western Australian and women’s singles winner Laura Butler was named as the 2024 player of the tournament.

Men’s Singles – Final

Aron Sherriff made history as the first bowler in the history of the Australian Open to claim three consecutive singles titles after a gripping 21-19 win over Cohen Litfin.

In what would be a record-extending sixth crown in the discipline, the Right at Home Jackaroo managed to fight off his Queensland teammate in a contest fitting of a final.

Having not lost in singles play at the tournament for 1,093 days, Litfin proved that he was more than up for the fight with the pair trading blows early in the contest. The younger combatant would prove to be a thorn in Sherriff’s side, remaining within a full count throughout the majority of the contest, utilising his prowess on the

long ends to keep the five-time winner on his toes. At 17-15, the Broadbeach product tightened the screws to put down some sublime bowls and move to within a shot of victory.

Litfin was undeterred, and lifted his intensity to play two supreme ends and narrow the gap to just a solitary shot.

The final end saw Litfin holding game with Sherriff needing to come up with something spectacular to hoist the trophy for a sixth time, and he obliged as he has done so many times throughout his career. In an emotional embrace, the pair shared a hug and warm words before the newly crowned world number one would step to the lectern with the gold medal around his neck.

Women’s Pairs – Final

After winning a Commonwealth Games gold medal together in 2022, Ellen Fife and Kristina Krstic now have an Australian Open title as a pair after a display of dominance in the women’s pairs final at Broadbeach on Thursday.

The Jackaroos duo continued their fine form in the final against Tayla Bruce and Jessie Cottell, taking out a 17-9 win.

The best friend pairing stormed out of the blocks, collecting a four on the first end of the game to set the tone.

Cottell and Bruce fought back from the slow start, as Cottell saved three down to two up on the second end, consolidating with a one on the third before Fife and Krstic began to run away with it.

The pair dominated through the mid-stages of the contest, winning seven of eight ends to break away 15-5. They would hold their nerve, finishing an end early to claim a memorable win.

The win breaks a streak of finals near misses for Krstic, claiming a maiden Australian Open title after six finals losses.

It is a fourth title for Fife, and second pairs title after winning with Julie Keegan in 2017.

Under-18 Boys’ Singles – Final

In one of the most remarkable contests of the entire fortnight, Victoria’s Koby Cromie would stage a miraculous comeback to edge past Travis Moran 21-19 on green one.

The first five ends could not split the pair as they sat 4-4 thanks to some exemplary shotmaking.

From there, a holding pattern ensued with seven singles scored in the coming ends before Moran broke the dam wall to race to an 18-8 buffer and seemingly the trophy. However, a twist was coming as Cromie netted a three on the 19th end to gain control of the length.

His leading bowls lifted to set him up in the coming exchanges, forging his way to 19-all in what had become a thrilling encounter.

Moran had chances to gain the upper hand once more but he couldn’t land the telling blow, allowing Cromie to pounce, and pounce he did.

The Victorian played an exquisite final end to seal one of the biggest comebacks of the 2024 tournament.

Under-18 Girls’ Singles – Final

It was a fortuitous day for Sunbury’s Akasha Fortune, who avenged her sectional round defeat at the hands of Anda Panchawat, recording a 21-17 win in the decider.

Fortune emerged to an 11-4 buffer after nine ends before her South Australian counterpart fought back to get within one shot.

The Victorian began to turn the screws however, conquering six of the next seven exchanges to lead 18-11 and put one hand on the trophy.

Panchawat was far from finished, claiming six shots from the next three ends to again trim the gap to one, causing the noise level to drop drastically and the

tension to rise.

Fortune would favour the brave in the end, as the 17-year-old again raised her level to salute as the last one standing and claim a maiden Australian Open title.

Over-60s Men’s Pairs – Final

The over 60’s men’s pairs saw the New South Wales pairing of Terry Warder and Stephen Ashdown overcame a strong start by Dennis Williams and Bill Ahoy to take a 22-6 victory.

Both pairings were going bowl-for-bowl throughout the first five ends, with leads and skips trading blows as the match looked like it was going right to the wire.

With Williams and Ahoy leading 6-5 after seven ends, Warder’s leading skyrocketed, setting his skip up to perfection as they began to pile on the multiples.

After seven ends on the bounce, the lead extended to an unassailable 16 as the teams shook hands, with both Warder and Ashdown bursting into elation following a remarkable victory.

Over-60s Women’s Pairs – Final

An extra end was needed to decide the over-60 women’s pairs champions, with Sharon McReynolds and Sue Coultas digging deep to take out the victory.

The former runners-up looked to be at risk of collecting a second silver medal, trailing for the entirety of the 18 end battle against New Zealand’s Karina Cooper and Diane Strawbridge.

The NZ duo led by as much as seven shots after 11 ends, but five consecutive singles for the team from NSW helped them reel the deficit back to two with two ends to play.

The Kiwis would go on to lead by four with one end to play, when McReynolds and Coultas fought to collect a four and force an extra end.

Two shots on the extra end would give the 2022 runners up the title.

Multi-Disability Men’s Singles – Final

Damien Delgado is a two-time Australian Open champion after a dominant multi-disability men’s singles final win on Friday.

Delgado flew out of the blocks against former champion David Minns, leading 6-0 before Minns hit the scoreboard.

It would be one-way traffic from that point on, with Minns able to only cut the margin to four at its least, with Delgado dropping just six ends to win 21-12.

Letter from the editor

Welcome to our 2024 winter edition of Bowling & Lifestyle Magazine. In this bumper issue we feature exclusive interviews with legendary actor JOHN WATERS and the much- loved stage manager JOHN (Robbo) ROBERTSON.

We are also incredibly honoured to once again have Australian Icon TONY BONNER AM as our guest writer. Don’t miss Tony’s incredible article on the ‘’TROOPING THE COLOUR.’’ We also feature all the latest news from’’Bowls Australia’’ and ‘’Henselite Australia.’’

Many thanks to our promoters for supplying complimentary tickets to 2 incredible theatre productions ‘’Snow White’’ and ‘’The Woman in black.’’ A big welcome to our Travel Companies who are now supporting us with cruises, wine festivals, mid-week stays and fantastic destination holidays at great prices just for our readers. Not to mention a huge ‘’shout-out to ‘’Doctors without Boarders’’ and ‘’The Mark Hughes Foundation’’ for their support. Make sure you buy a Beenie from the Mark Hughes Foundation to help raise funds for ‘’Brain Cancer.’’ Special thanks to everyone that has contributed wonderful stories for the magazine to publish and many thanks to Catherine Colusso for supplying us with Celebrity interviews and amazing stories. Plus, a huge thankyou to all the clubs, bowlers and businesses who have also sent in stories, latest events and articles. We really appreciate your input. We love hearing what is happening at your club. ‘’KEEP THE STORIES COMING.’’ Many thanks also to all our wonderful advertisers, who make this magazine possible. Make sure you send Bowling & Lifestyle Online Magazine to your friends and family to enjoy, or alternatively read our latest and past editions on ISSUU for FREE at https:// issuu.com/sales.bowlingandlifestylemagazines.com.au

Head on over to our Facebook & Instagram pages and give us a like/follow and support your only National Lawn Bowling Online Magazine. We appreciate the support. From the team here at Bowling & Lifestyle Magazine. Please stay safe.

Until next time…

Publisher | Rosslyn Wren

Advertising and Editorial inquiries: 0424 672 796 or email to rwren7@bigpond.com

Artwork and Design | Adele Dhillon

Copyright: All material appearing in

Rosslyn Wren

Catherine Flier

Catherine Colusso

LUXURY OVER 55’S LIVING

How Glenda’s love of children will save little lives like Ava

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As a mother, grandmother, and teacher, children have always been a focus Glenda’s life. Now, through the gift she has left in her Will to the Children’s Foundation, helping sick kids like Ava is her legacy.

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“I had been a regular donor to the Children’s Hospital Foundation. The more I learned about their wonderful work, the more my passion for supporting them grew. And leaving a gift in my Will was the logical next step,” shares Glenda.

While no gift can ever give back all that childhood illness takes away, the kindness people like Glenda show can help save childhoods and lives.

Hope through innovation

After all other treatment options had been exhausted, Ava’s oncologist organised for her part in a trial at the Queensland Children’s that combined immunotherapy and chemotherapy.

Glenda’s gift - and every gift left in Wills to the Children’s Hospital Foundation - will support groundbreaking research, help fund new and essential equipment, and provide on the ground support for every sick kid who comes through the doors of the Queensland Children’s Hospital.

Ava was one of the first children at Queensland Children’s Hospital to benefit from this innovative treatment, offering new hope for a cancer-free “By the third treatment, cancer that was the hard parts of had all gone,” said Ava’s mum.

Glenda’s generosity will help save more kids like Ava.

Saving little lives

At just 7 years old, Ava was in grave danger of becoming what her oncologist calls one of the “lovely ghosts” of cancer - one of the children who can’t be cured.

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By giving even just your estate to the Hospital Foundation, your loved ones you could be the kids like Ava deserve.

Just like Glenda, you could give hope to families and into the future.

“I would encourage everyone when writing your Will to consider leaving a legacy to the Hospital Foundation. Every little amount helps, will become part of the fabulous family,” Glenda

What was first thought to be a virus turned out to be stage 4 neuroblastoma - a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer and was given less than a 50% chance of survival.

Traditional treatments weren’t working for her, and after a grueling regime of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, Ava’s chances of survival dropped to less than 30%.

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‘I often find myself working in conflict zones and natural disasters’

Seventy-four-year-old Anne Taylor from Wellington in New Zealand, is living a big, adventurous, and purpose-driven life. In 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic shut down international travel, Anne thought it may have been time to hang up her ‘aid worker hat’. By then she had already completed 20 assignments with the medical humanitarian organisation, Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF), supporting people during conflicts and natural disasters, first as a logistician and then as head of mission.

But when the Israel/Gaza war began in October last year, Anne was asked to return to a context she knew well, to work as an emergency coordinator. Anne had been a head of mission for MSF in Palestine before, in 2018 and 2019, and wanted to return to support MSF’s emergency activities in Gaza and the West Bank.

Based in Jerusalem during November and December 2023, she is horrified by the humanitarian catastrophe that is unfolding in Gaza.

“I have not seen anything like the Israel/Gaza war, and I have worked in a lot of conflict situations before. To have such relentless bombardments where nowhere is safe and then the invasion of ground troops. I’ve never seen such persistent

attacks on civilians and lack of protection for hospitals, it really challenges all the humanitarian laws that have been written to protect civilians and medical facilities.”

Anne says she was always interested in exploring ‘non-traditional female’ job roles. She began her career as a printer; then trained to be a carpenter and worked ‘on the tools’ and as a supervisor in the construction industry for sixteen years. During her career, she supervised building projects with the non-governmental organisation Habitat for Humanity, which opened her eyes to the prospect of doing humanitarian work. She applied to MSF in 2002 when the organisation visited New Zealand. She has worked for MSF in Haiti, Nigeria, Georgia, The Philippines, South Sudan, Nepal, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Côte d’Ivoire and Indonesia.

“I joined MSF as a logistician and worked for some years in this role, developing my knowledge about the organisation and slowly taking more responsibility with each assignment: none of the medical work could go ahead without logistics. I was offered the opportunity to transition to head of mission and went on my first assignment in this role to Côte d’Ivoire in 2007. As I joined MSF late in my working life, I had considerable management experience, including owning small businesses, which helped in developing the skills necessary for a head of mission.

“In MSF we work hard to respect our charter and financial independence, thanks to MSF supporters, which allow us to work in very challenging contexts around the world – this personally makes me very proud.”

By leaving a gift in your Will you’ll help MSF to continue operating as an impartial, adaptable and visionary force in the delivery of medical humanitarian aid. You will provide the critical, non-aligned funding it needs to maintain its independence, and with it its readiness to provide lifesaving care and support today and tomorrow.

For more information, please don’t hesitate to contact MSF’s Gifts in Wills team on 02 8570 2611 or visit www.msf.org.au/leave-a-legacy

Sean Sutton/Panos Pictures

A HUMAN RIGHTS ACT FOR AUSTRALIA

In Australia everyone’s human rights should be protected. But, right now our rights are only protected by a patchwork of laws that fail to adequately prevent human rights abuses. Without overarching federally legislated protections there are few avenues for people to challenge human rights abuses, and few remedies available to those who suffer human rights abuses in Australia today.

After a decade of inaction, we have an opportunity to ensure our human rights are protected by law in Australia. We know that 73% of Australians support introducing a Human Rights Act to protect our Human rights in law. Together, we can make this a reality.

Why does Australia need a Human Rights Act?

Human rights are the fundamental freedoms and protections that belong to all of us, and Australia’s current laws are failing to prevent human rights abuses.

Australia is the only liberal democracy in the world without a Human Rights Act that protects human rights in law.

If you or someone you love suffers a human rights abuse, there’s not much you can do to hold those responsible to account, and there are few legal remedies available. Because of this, powerful people continue to abuse human rights.

Which of our rights are protected?

Australia has Anti-Discrimination laws, but these only protect people’s right to live free from discrimination on the basis of their age, sex, disability, or race.

These laws don’t protect all our rights, including our right to access healthcare, to an education, to a healthy environment, and the rights of children.

What can you do if your rights are abused?

You can complain about an abuse to the Australian Human Rights Commission, and they can investigate. If that complaint isn’t resolved through a conciliation process, then complaints about discrimination may be taken to court under the Anti-Discrimination Acts. If your complaint involves a right that’s not the right to live free from discrimination, there’s nothing more you can do.

This system is fundamentally flawed, and is failing to prevent human rights abuses from happening.

What would a Human Rights Act do?

A Human Rights Act is a tool with which we can fight for the fundamental rights and freedoms that belong to all of us, and hold those in power to account.

It would mean the rights of all Australians are protected in our laws, and force the federal government to consider those rights in their laws, policies and practices.

A Human Rights Act will:

• Prevent human rights abuses by forcing the government to consider human rights when passing laws, making decisions about policies, and delivering services

• Provide an avenue for people to take action and challenge injustice when their rights are abused

• Provide remedies for people whose rights are abused. With a Human Rights Act, we can create better lives for ourselves, our communities, and for those around us.

What does that look like?

The ACT, Victoria, and Queensland have their own state-based Human Rights Acts. They’re a good guide for a federal Human Rights Act, and show us how people can use one to challenge injustice and human rights abuses.

But without a national Human Rights Act, there is nothing enshrined in law that protects the rights of everyone in Australia.

The time to protect human rights is now

The housing crisis, robodebt, a broken aged care system... Australia needs a Human Rights Act that protects human rights in law.

Housing Crisis

Our right to housing isn’t protected in our national laws. That means if you or your family are threatened with unfair eviction, there’s not a lot you can do.

If we had an enforceable right to housing embedded in our laws, we could challenge forced evictions to ensure nobody is left out in the cold.

Robodebt

Nearly 450,000 robo-debts were issued by the Morrison government. Everyday Australians were harassed, paying thousands of dollars under a policy that was never lawful. If we had a Human Rights Act, the government would have been forced to consider people’s human rights before rolling out robodebt.

Aged care

The horrifying findings of the Aged Care Royal Commission, laid bare the abuses so many older people face. Abuse and neglect. Sexual abuse. The use of chemical restraints.

The recommendation was a new aged care system, based on human rights. But how do you create this system, when our human rights are not even protected in our laws?

Remember the Religious Discrimination Bill?

In 2021, the Morrison government proposed the Religious Discrimination Bill supposedly protecting religious people from discrimination. In reality, it would give religious people the right to discriminate against others.

That Bill threatened LGBTQIA+ people, women, people with disabilities, and even other people of faith, and is a good example of how Australia’s patchwork of human rights protections don’t protect all our rights. Australia’s anti-discrimination laws don’t protect people from discrimination on the basis of their religious beliefs.

A Human Rights Act, by contrast, would protect people against discrimination based on their religious beliefs, but also protect the rights of LGBTQIA+ people, people with disabilities, and women. It would allow rights to be balanced – one group’s rights would not take priority over another.

…It doesn’t have to be like this

Together, we can make Australia a place where human rights are protected, where people can challenge human rights abuses, and where there is justice for those whose rights are abused.

To learn learn more and take action for a Human Rights Act for Australia - head to www.amnesty.org.au/act-now/ legislate-a-human-rights-act-for-australia-now/

MAKE A BRIGHTER FUTURE YOUR LEGACY

For 60 years Amnesty International has campaigned for a world where human rights are enjoyed by all. We believe everyone is entitled to live in a world where their human rights are recognised, realised, and protected. At the very core of Amnesty International is the belief that the actions of each individual can make a difference. What better way to demonstrate this than by making a gift in your Will and helping to transform the future for the better?

Organising your Will is a way to ensure that everything you have stood for in your life, everything you believed in and cared so deeply about, lives on for the next generation. A Will is more than a piece of paper, it is absolutely vital to preserving and protecting the fundamental rights that underpin everything else we hold dear. When you choose to make a gift in your Will to Amnesty International, our promise to you is to continue to uphold our shared values long into the future. We are proudly independent and non-partisan, which means gifts in Wills are critical to our work. We rely on the generosity of our supporters to help us search out the facts, expose what’s happening and rally people

together to pressure governments and those in power to respect human rights.

It’s more important than ever to hold on to what you believe in, and what you know is true. No matter the size of your gift, it’s a way of ensuring that the struggle to uphold our shared values of freedom, equality and justice will continue in the world we’re leaving our children and grandchildren.

Your gift to Amnesty International will help safeguard a future world where human rights are respected, defended and upheld. It’s a gift that will ensure that your values will live on for your loved ones and across generations to come.

For more information call Naomi Vaughan on 08 8110 8103 or naomi. vaughan@amnesty.org.au or visit www.amnesty.org.au to find out more

We’ve partnered with online Will writing platform Gathered Here, who host a free and easy step-by-step online Will writing service. Scan the code to write your Will for free today.

All images © Amnesty International

Unlock the Value of Your Home: Your Next Adventure Awaits!

Are you over 50 and considering selling your home?

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Bowls Australia

2024 AUSTRALIAN OPEN: DAY 13 RECAP

Final bowl thrillers, upset victories and bowls of the highest order filled the penultimate day of Australian Open action on the Gold Coast.

Women’s Singles – Final

For just the second time in Australian Open history, a Western Australian won the Australian Open women’s singles crown, with Laura Butler saluting in a final to remember.

Butler went head-to-head with Club Helensvale’s Kelsey Cottrell in a rematch of their 2023 singles semi final, with Butler flipping the script on that result.

The Manning, WA star jumped out of the blocks to settle her nerves against the newly crowned world number one, leading 4-0 after two ends. Cottrell settled into the contest with five consecutive singles to take the lead.

Shots went back and forth during the middle stages of the game, but six shots on the run took Cottrell to a 19-16 lead.

Butler held her nerve and fought back with an immediate three to level scores at 19-19.

Butler would go on to collect the winning shots on the next end to hand Cottrell a second consecutive singles

final loss, and collect her second Australian Open title after winning last year’s fours.

The victory was made even more special for Butler, playing the final while pregnant.

Men’s Pairs – Final

In a discipline that is proving to produce the most exciting finale in recent years, the 2024 edition of the competition was no different as 19-year-old New South Welshman Joseph Clarke and Jack McShane clinched an epic extra end victory over Flynn O’Shaughnessy and Nathan Rice.

After falling behind 0-6, the young stars rallied to gain a four on the fifth end to give themselves a foothold in the contest.

Rice and O’Shaughnessy managed to hold their lead until the 15th end, where McShane and Clarke would net a four to gain the ascendancy for the first time in the match.

They would maintain a buffer right until the last end to lead by three, where Rice put forth one of the all-time great final exchanges as he drew a trio of brilliant shots to send the match to an extra end.

The toss would see the Helensvale products with the mat before O’Shaughnessy rolled the jack into the ditch to hand the length to their opponents.

Rice managed to gain the upper hand once again, holding one with McShane heading down for his final bowl.

Holding one on the tee, the young Merrylands product landed a sensational delivery that skimmed Rice’s bowl and the jack out of bounds before it was re-spotted to seal one of the most remarkable wins and end one of the great narratives.

Men’s Singles – SF

Aron Sherriff will be eyeing off a historic sixth Australian Open singles crown on Friday, after a dominant semi final win on Thursday.

Sherriff was clinical in his 21-12 semi final win over Corey Wedlock, as he looks for a third consecutive singles title.

He will meet Cohen Litfin who impressed in a hardfought 21-16 win over the in-form Carl Healey. Litfin is no stranger to the big stage, having played in the 2021 pairs final.

They will meet in the final match of the event tomorrow afternoon.

Women’s Pairs – SF

Two big semi final wins see the women’s pairs final locked in for Friday morning.

Tayla Bruce and Jessie Cottell will take on Ellen Fife and Kristina Krstic after strong semi final performances. Krstic beat Chloe Stewart and Katelyn Inch 21-14, with an end to spare, as did Cottell over Olivia Cartwright and Laura Butler (17-9).

It will be a highly-anticipated clash, with Bruce the reigning world singles champion, and Krstic/Fife 2022 Commonwealth Games gold medallists.

Men’s Fours – Final

There was not much separating the two teams in a blockbuster men’s fours final at Broadbeach on Thursday evening.

Delayed due to clashes with the men’s pairs final, the teams took to green one at Broadbeach under lights. Jack McShane and Joseph Clarke looked to add a second title to their resume on the same day after earlier pairs success, teaming up with Sean Baker and Ben Twist.

Taking on Ray Pearse, Peter Taylor, Gary Kelly and Carl Healey, Twist’s team trailed for much of the contest, but managed to keep scores level or trail by just one or two shots often to keep touch.

A key two on the 12th end put Twist’s team ahead by one shot, leaving a thrilling finish to the night. The sides were tied after 13 ends at 8-8, with Healey’s side collecting a one on end 14 to lead by one going into the deciding end.

The title came down to the final two bowls, with Healey

Bowls Australia

drawing to the jack on the tee, and Twist just unable to take back shot, drawing just wide, to give Pearse, Taylor, Kelly and Healey a 10-8 win. It was Peter Taylor’s first Australian Open title, while adding to the already decorated CVs of the others.

Women’s Fours – Final

The women’s fours saw the quartet of Louise Cronan, Leanne Chinery, Emma Boyd and Kelly McKerihen claim their maiden Australian Open titles after a 15-8 victory against a gallant Kira Bourke, Emma Simmons, Cassandra Millerick and Kylie Whitehead.

McKerihen’s peach draped squad started the match in brilliant fashion, racing to a 5-0 buffer after three ends before their opponents got on the board.

It remained in a holding pattern until the ninth end of the contest with the Canadian’s team holding a slender 7-5 lead.

Whitehead’s last bowl had been released to show her team having the five closest bowls, leaving McKerihen with it all to do with her last, and she provided a piece of brilliance to cut the count back to one and maintain the lead.

A two and a three followed as the quartet gained an unassailable lead, racing away to a seven-shot victory with all four landing their first ever gold medal at the tournament.

Multi-Disability Women’s Singles – Final

It was redemption for Serena Bonnell as she rectified her loss in the 2023 decider by defeating her state and Australian teammate Louise Hoskins 21-13 in a dominant display.

Bonnell raced out to a 9-3 buffer after eight ends before her opponent settled beautifully to level the contest thanks to an inspired change in length.

The Club Tweed product would gain the upper hand following some supreme conversions to move ahead yet again.

At 12-9, the 42-year-old netted a full count of four to put her foot down and race away to a 17-9 buffer leading into the 16th end.

With some scintillating shooting, Bonnell managed to hold game before Hoskins cut the count to keep the contest going, and would win the next two ends to bring the gap back to seven.

However, a front hopper for the Para Jackaroo would remain as the shot on the 19th exchange to secure her maiden title at the Australian Open in her third final across all disciplines.

We Reinventing Retirement

How retirement lifestyle communities are rethinking the way we retire.

Retirement communities aren’t what they used to be. Not so long ago, the term ‘retirement’ conjured images of ‘nursing homes but the growing population of baby boomers starting or preparing for retirement is changing all that.

There’s growing resistance to anything that looks like, smells like or smacks of a nursing home or institution these days, and that’s a good thing. The youngest baby boomers turned 50 just a few years ago, and they’re looking for something completely different.

Lifestyle Villages where members enjoy private residences but share recreational or community spaces are becoming more popular. These developments attract younger residents – 55 or over – who are looking to downsize their maintenance but up-size their lifestyle with a community of likeminded individuals with whom they can feel in tune.

And here are four ways retirement communities are changing the face of retirement for the better:

1. A greater focus on health and wellness

Maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle is key to getting the most out of your retirement. Most of the new-look developments are located in enhanced lifestyle locations, so there’s plenty for you to do nearby and great infrastructure to help you take advantage of it.

Plus, with walking paths, community facilities, group fitness classes and more on site, they couldn’t be further from the image of the passive nursing home. With so many lifestyle options available to you, it’s easy to prioritise your emotional and physical wellbeing.

2. Totally connected

Just because you’ve retired doesn’t mean you’ve disconnected from the world. The latest communities realise keeping connected is crucial in today’s age and have built accessibility to technology into the fabric of their master plans.

That means there’s easy connectivity to the internet, giving you the ability to remain in touch 24/7 at the click of a mouse.

3. Encouraging independence all the way

Today’s retirement communities are designed to make you feel more independent as you age, not less. This is in keeping with the fact that residents are more youthful than ever before. In fact, retirees not only feel younger, but they are also younger – the age of people living in these communities has dropped to a youthful 55 rather than the expected 65+.

Equipped with high-quality amenities, easy-access open spaces and proximity to transport options, the planned communities reinforce the feeling of self-determination and freedom that should be integral to retirement.

And while you’ll live in your own home, the supportive community of having like minded individuals around and security infrastructure like CCTV will make you feel as if someone is always looking out for you.

4. Surprisingly affordable day-to-day

You might be considering a move to a retirement community because maintaining your current family home is taking up the time you could be enjoying a simpler lifestyle. And downsizing your maintenance also means you can enjoy substantial savings in the cost of living.

New 6-star energy-rated resort-style homes mean you’ll save more in energy costs straight off the bat (not to mention it’s designed to be kinder to the environment). You’ll also reduce fuel and car running costs with central layouts that make it easier to live, shop and thrive close to home.

Retirement communities are a radical rethinking of retirement – one that embraces the future of aging with gusto and creativity. They’re a return to more communal, more social living in keeping with a generation that has transformed our way of thinking so many times throughout the decades – and doubtless it’s not done yet!

An Encore Living community is all the above and more.

TROOPING THE COLOUR 2024

Courtesy of Tony Bonner AM

BOWLING&Lifestyle

Magazine has asked me to pen some thoughts regarding the “Trooping the colour’’ ceremony recently held in London for this edition. I am very happy to do this.

TONY

BONNER AM

Let me, for those who may not already know, what the intention for this ceremony represents.

In a simple term, it was a rallying point during a battle for the troops to know where they were during the chaotic cut and thrust of engaging the enemy. The

Colours, or flags/pennants of your regiment squad, were always held high amongst the carnage of hand to hand, and sometimes Calvary encounters. You, the soldier, could see where you needed to be, defending those ‘Colours,’ your colour. It was the 17th century where this battlefield action was adopted, under the reign of King Charles II, 1660. These troops, known as the Horse Guards were, and still are the sovereign’s personal body guards. In 1748, these colours became “The Trooping of the Guards’’ ceremony to officially signify the sovereign’s birthday.

So here we are 2024 and this ceremony is held yearly to acknowledge the sovereign’s birthday. The fabulous Horse Guards Parade, a military parade held at the majestic St. James Park where the scene of “Trooping the Colour’’ takes place, June of each year. This most recent ceremony maintained all the traditional splendour of man and horse in superbly executed routines, to the magnificent military bands accompanying this action.

The former Queen, King Charles’ mother, rode in this parade all her reign, up until 1986 where she had to succumb to then riding in a carriage until her passing.

In this year’s ceremony, Princess Anne rode proudly, I’m sure reflecting on all the years her mother led this parade, it would have been an emotional moment for her. Prince William and Prince Edward also rode, while The King received the salute from the Horse Guards as they passed his central point, King saluting his troops, his troops turning “eyes right’’ in respect.

For me, having played many military men, that held my admiration and respect, to negate this history to not be emotionally touched by the men and women of our military, who have given of themselves for us, is to not hold all military ceremonies in the respect that should be accorded.

Our Anzac Day, that reminds us all of our Australian hero’s that took up arms to defend our shores. Our link with all the worlds democacies is to be valued and honoured. So God bless the British for retaining their history, for being proud to display that respect to all their military personal. To me, if you don’t know where you have come from, don’t know where you are, then you will have no idea where you are going.

LEST WE FORGET

Tony Bonner AM

TONY BONNER AM has appeared in an eclectic mix of critically acclaimed films, television shows and live theatre during his phenomenal career, which includes ANZACS, THE LIGHT HORSEMAN, QUIGLEY DOWN UNDER and THE MAN FROM SNOWY RIVER.

He was awarded both the Sammy and Penguin Awards for “The Best Single Performance by an actor, in the 1978 Television Movie “END OF SUMMER.’’

Tony was also nominated for “The Best Actor in a supporting role’’ by The Australian Film Institute in 2003 for the movie “LIQUID BRIDGE’’ and received a “Lifetime Achievement Award’’ from the Australian Screen Industry Network Awards in 2011. Bonner was appointed a “MEMBER OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA “ (AM) in 2017 for his services to the performing arts as an actor, surf lifesaving and to the community through charitable organisations.

Making you feel Right at Home

Right at Home is your local, quality, in-home aged care and disability support provider, providing care and support that allows our clients to remain safe and independent in their own homes.

Right at Home have 49 offices in Australia throughout New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria and now also in the A.C.T.

Right at Home office owners aim to provide their communities with the best in-home care services, when and where you need them.

Right at Home’s mission is ‘to improve the quality of life for those we serve’TM. At Right at Home, our clients, their families, and our caregivers are at the centre of everything we do.

At Right at Home, you can expect exceptional, 24/7 customer service, 365 days a year. We offer free in-home consultations and care planning as well as free support navigating the government-funded Home Care Packages scheme (HCP). We are an Approved HCP Provider for levels 1 to 4 and can offer plan and self-managed support to NDIS participants, as well as care and support for private pay clients. We don’t charge package management fees for government funded clients, meaning you get more hours of care for your budget.

Right at Home understand that care decisions for you and your loved ones are important. We believe in the Right ApproachTM, so we carefully match our carers and support workers to our clients and participants. A personal introduction to your carer or support worker helps to ensure that you feel safe and comfortable prior to the start of your service. Our caregivers are highly trained, screened and insured prior to entering a client’s home. Because every client is different, we adapt our services to suit the client’s specific needs with a custom

care plan. We also offer free supervisory visits to ensure carers are following the Right at Home customised care plan and meeting your expectations.

Planning and organising the right home care services for your loved ones can be a daunting task, so why not let the Right at Home team of highly trained and experienced staff guide you during this time of inevitable change. Chat to our friendly owners to find out how we can support you and your family. Call us on 1300 363 802 to reach your local office or visit us at www.rightathome.com.au

Right at Home is the naming rights partner of the Australian Jackaroos and supports the inclusivity and community connection that the sport of bowls provides. Click here to see the story on Bowls Australia website

Right at Home are leaders in quality homecare and support, delivering services that allow our clients to remain safe and independent in their own homes. Your local Right at Home family is ready to look after yours when you can’t. We have offices throughout QLD, NSW, WA, SA, ACT and Victoria, catering for government funded and private pay clients.

Right at Home are leaders in quality homecare and support, delivering services that allow our clients to remain safe and independent in their own homes. Your local Right at Home family is ready to look after yours when you can't. We have offices throughout QLD, NSW, WA, SA and Victoria, catering for government funded and private pay clients.

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Multi-Disability Open Pairs – Final

Chris Flavel and James Reynolds were comprehensive in their multi-disability pairs victory over Tony Bonnell and Josh Barry.

The duo dropped just four of 15 ends on their way to a 19-4 victory, a third AO title for Reynolds and maiden crown for Flavel.

Vision-Impaired Pairs – Final

Helen Boardman and Jake Fehlberg‘s domination of the Australian Open vision-impaired pairs event continued, winning a third straight title on Thursday.

The pair, directed by Peter Doherty and Cody Fehlberg respectively, trailed early against Jacky Hudson and Fred McConnell, conceding the first five shots of the game before hitting the scoreboard. They trailed 6-1, before going on a 16-4 run to claim a third straight title.

Vision-Impaired Singles – Final

Jake Fehlberg continues to add to his Australian Open tally, with a singles victory taking him to nine AO championships.

The Jackaroo and world champion fought off a strong starting Calvin Rodgers, who led 9-1, before fighting back to 17-17.

From there Fehlberg edged his way to a 21-19 win, continuing to etch his name in Australian Open folklore.

Over-60s Men’s Pairs – R16, QF & SF

Terry Warder and Stephen Ashdown will meet Dennis Williams and Bill Ahoy in tomorrow’s over-60 men’s pairs final after three wins on Thursday to book a spot in the decider.

Both sides enjoyed strong wins throughout the day, with Ahoy holding on to win by two shots in their semi final.

Over-60s Women’s Pairs – QF & SF

2022 over-60 women’s pairs runners up Sharon McReynolds and Sue Coultas will have a chance to go one step further after qualifying for tomorrow’s final. They recorded two seven shot wins to book a spot in tomorrow’s decider, where they will face New Zealand’s Karina Cooper and Diana Strawbridge. Under-18 Boys’ Singles – R16, QF & SF

Warilla’s Travis Moran will meet Essendon’s Koby Cromie in the under-18 boys final after Thursday’s knockout rounds.

Moran had three good wins, conceding a maximum of 14 shots en route to the final.

Tasmania’s Oliver Morrison beat 2023 champion Riley Gerick in his quarter final, but fell short against an impressive Cromie in the semi final.

Under-18 Girls’ Singles – QF & SF

Sunbury’s Akasha Fortune will meet Brighton’s Anda Panchawat in the under-18 girls final, after both enjoyed wins in quarter and semi finals on Thursday.

Fortune took down 2023 champion Reese FinnYoung in her quarter final en route to tomorrow’s decider. Panchawat had two good wins, as she looks for a maiden Australian Open crown.

Multi-Disability Men’s Singles – SF

There will be no 2022 multi-disability men’s singles final rematch after Damien Delgado edged out former finalist Frank Krslovic in their semi final 21-10.

He will meet 2022 champion David Minns who beat Graeme Smith to reach another final.

WE ARE GIVING ONE OF OUR LUCKY FOLLOWERS THE OPPORTUNITY TO WIN A DOUBLE PASS TO SEE THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED STAGE PLAY

“THE WOMAN IN BLACK’’

STARRING TWO OF AUSTRALIA’S MOST ACCLAIMED ACTORS, JOHN WATERS & DANIEL MacPHERSON AT THE THEATRE ROYAL SYDNEY. DATE : THURSDAY 1ST AUGUST 2024 @ 7.30PM To be in the draw, email your entry to bowlsplus1@bigpond.com

WINNER WILL BE ADVISED BY EMAIL

“THE WOMAN IN BLACK’’ is currently touring Australia. The production includes performances in Adelaide, Perth, Melbourne, Canberra, Wollongong, Newcastle and Sydney.

WIN!

The stage production of Susan Hill’s infamous ghost story “The Woman in Black’’ has been described as the most terrifying live theatre experience in the world. The play, also described as a “Masterpiece’’ is a brilliant study in atmosphere, illusion and controlled horror. The production is the second longest-running play in London’s West End history, after Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap.’’ BOWLING&LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE recently had the enormous privilege of catching-up and interviewing one of the stars of “The Woman in black’’ iconic legendary actor John Waters. JOHN is without a doubt, one of Australia’s most successful and popular actors, with a career spanning over 50 years. He has won numerous awards which include the “George Wallace Memorial Logie’’ for Best new talent for his role in the television series DAVISION 4 in 1975. In 1988, he won the AFI Award for Best Performance by an actor in a leading role for the film BOULEVARD OF BROKEN DREAMS. John has also been nominated for Best Lead Actor for “Weekend of Shadows’’ and “Best Supporting Actor in a Drama for “All Saints.’’ John was part of the Australian children’s television series ‘PLAY SCHOOL’ for 18 years. He made his debut on Play School in 1972 and appeared regularly until 1991. Waters is also an accomplished musician, and has toured many times with his highly successful stage show LOOKING THROUGH A GLASS ONION, which is a tribute to John Lennon and features numerous examples of Lennon’s music, words and images. The show is a combination of concert and monologue that captures the phenomenon that was John Lennon.

Q & A WITH JOHN WATERS

B&L : Congratulations John on your achievements and extraordinary career. You are well known to Australian audiences for your work as an actor in films, theatre and television. Many Australians also remember your regular appearances on the children’s television program ‘Play School.’ Did you enjoy your time on Play School ?

JOHN : Thank you. Yes, I loved my time on ‘Play School’ It was very creative and therapeutic for me, and I loved working with Benita Collings and Noni Haselhurst.

B&L : You are an accomplished musician and your career actually started in the early sixties, as bass guitar player with a London based band. What was the name of the band and what music genre was the band involved with ?

JOHN :The name of the band was THE RIOTS and we were a blues band.

B&L : You were born in the UK and initially came to Australia on a working holiday, before settling here permanently. What year did you come to Australia ?

JOHN :I came to Australia in 1968 on the “ten pound scheme’’ which was being offered to British citizens by the Australian Government at the time. The only requirement was that I remain in Australia for 2 years. I stayed for 3 years and went back to the UK in 1971.

B&L : How old were you at the time ?

JOHN : I was 19 going on 20.

B&L : You were very young at the time, how did your parents react when you told them your intention of living in Australia permanently ?

JOHN : They were both supportive and knew I had the travel bug. My mum came and lived in Australia after my father died, she passed away at the age of ninety five.

B&L : Were you immediately able to get work as an actor, can you tell us about the early days in Australia as an actor ?

JOHN : I was very familiar with the business, because my father was the Scottish film actor Russel Waters from the 1930’s to the 70’s. The transition from music to acting was not hard for me. In 1969 I auditioned as a singer for a part in the Sydney stage production of Hair,

and ended up playing Claude, then Judas in Godspell and Pontius Pilate in the Australian concert production of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR. I have worked consistently since.

B&L : Was their a certain icon that you admired when you were growing up ?

JOHN : I watched a lot of Westerns when I was young and I loved the low key style of Gary Cooper. I also admired Humphrey Bogart’s work in the film “The African Queen.’’

B&L :You are currently appearing in the stage production of THE WOMAN IN BLACK, which has been described as the most terrifying live theatre experience in the world. How would you describe the production ?

JOHN : Incredible and fascinating, it’s a rarity to have a play with this kind of suspense and supernatural elements that are genuinely scary. I share the stage with an excellent and vibrant actor (Daniel MacPherson) who plays Arthur Kipps the younger version of me brilliantly.

B&L : Can you name a highlight in your career that virtually changed your life and career ?

JOHN : Yes, in 1973 when producer Oscar Whitbread cast me in the ABC series RUSH, I was extremely happy to be involved with that show.

B&L : Was their a plan B in place if you were not successful as an actor ?

JOHN : No, not really I always had my music to fall back on, and I was always the one to be chosen for school plays, because I understood Shakespeare.

B&L : Are you involved with social media at all ?

JOHN : No I hate it. When I have a show to promote, I leave it up to the experts to do the promoting. I got sick of looking at people and what they eat.

B& L : Looking back now and with the advantage of hindsight. Would you have approached your career in a different manner if you had the chance again ?

JOHN : I have no regrets, life is what it is. I live for the present.

A NEW HOME FOR HENSELITE

Henselite has been a name synonymous with Lawn Bowls. The family business has been making and selling lawn bowls in Melbourne since 1918.

Twelve months ago the company made a strategic decision to move the Henselite Factory from its home of over 20 years in the inner northern suburb of Fairfield, to Kilsyth in the city's east. This was only the 3rd time in the company's 106 year history that the bowls manufacturing facility has moved and it was no small task.

“Like most major projects this one took longer, and cost more than originally planned. The task proved to be much bigger and more complex than we had anticipated.’ said Henselite Director, Ian Paterson. ‘We’ve had a very significant time out of production due to the move. Once we got up and running again, we have been selling our bowls as fast as we can make them and it’s taken some time to get ahead, so we have been low on stock and customers have been waiting longer for their orders than we would have liked. But the benefits of the move in the long term will outweigh the costs over this short period in the company’s long history.’

‘The move, the financial cost to us in achieving it, and the loyal support of our hard working staff during this extremely trying period, is a reflection of Henselite’s commitment to the bowls industry and our confidence in the game’s future, Ian said.’

Increasing Efficiency

For Henselite, the recent relocation of its factory has proven to be a game-changer in more ways than one. With its enhanced productivity and opportunity to bring its production and warehousing under one roof again, the move has brought a wave of benefits that will be realised in the coming months and years.

The decision to move the factory was driven by a strategic vision to streamline operations, maximize efficiency and lower overheads. Located in a more accessible area with better transportation access and links, the new facility has significantly reduced logistical challenges.

The layout of the new factory has been meticulously designed to optimize workflow and boost productivity while still maintaining our high standards of quality. This increased efficiency will enhance customer satisfaction by ensuring timely fulfillment of orders and provide more opportunities for innovation.

“Lawn Bowls is a precision sport where the smallest changes – in the bowl, in its delivery by the bowler – can change the game” said Ian. “Over 100 years Henselite has invested in developing the most accurate and precise bowls in the world. This is one of the reasons the Dreamline XG is proven to be the bestselling model here in Australia and New Zealand along with the Tiger Series in the UK and other parts of the world.”

“Our aim is to help all bowlers to Be Your Best. This factory move will allow us to keep making bowls of the highest quality, make more of them, give customers greater choices, and get them to our customers more quickly so they can spend time using them on the green playing the sport they love.”

Looking Ahead

As Henselite continues to reap the benefits of its strategic relocation, the future looks promising.

The decision to move its factory has proven to be a pivotal moment for Henselite, paving the way for future growth and transformation while still remaining true to its driving principles of making the world’s most accurate and precise bowls. By leveraging the advantages of its new facility, the company will look to not only improve its operational capabilities but has also reinforced its commitment to excellence and to its authentic, artisanal, hand finished bowls, made and sold by people who care.

NECK AND BACK PAIN

Neck and back pain can range from mild, annoying aches to severe, disabling pain

While most spine pain occurs as a part of the normal degenerative ageing process-it can also be a warning sign of cancer, infection, autoimmune disease, or a structural problem causing pressure on the spinal cord/ nerves

WHY DOES THIS OCCUR?

Our spines are comprised of a number of joints around the spinal cord and nerves. As we age, changes occur as the joints wear out resulting in inflammatory processes such as osteoarthritis. The joints and tissues can also become overgrown and compress a neural structure, which is called spinal stenosis. Failure of the joints to hold the bones in position can result in slippage and deformity. These are common characteristics of conditions such as spondylolisthesis, kyphosis, or scoliosis.

WHAT SYMPTOMS CAN THESE DEGENERATIVE CHANGES CAUSE?

• Dull, burning, or sharp pain-which can be confined to a single spot or cover a large area.

• Arm/leg numbness or tingling

• Sharp, shooting pain that radiates from your neck and your arm.

• Sharp shooting pain that radiates from your lower back to your buttocks, and down your leg (sciatica)

• Stiffness in your neck or back

• Difficulties with walking and balance

• Difficulties with coordination

• Loss of bladder and bowel control, with weakness in both legs are important symptoms that require immediate medical attention.

HOW IS A DIAGNOSIS MADE?

You should see your general practitioner for a medical and physical exam. They may obtain a CT scan and /or an MRI scan to assess your spine. CT/MRI produces pictures of bones, joints, ligament, the spinal cord and spinal nerves. Sometimes other tests are needed such as bone scans and specialised x-rays.

HOW ARE BACK AND NECK PAIN TREATED?

If you experience back or neck pain it may simply improve with some rest. Over the counter medicines such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, may also help alleviate discomfort. Activity should be modified to avoid movement that exacerbates pain. Physiotherapy, acupuncture, and massage therapy are beneficial.

Low-impact exercise programs may improve range of motion, increase muscle strength, and improve flexibility and mobility, increase endurance, and improve pain. Weight loss and improving one’s core strength are also useful.

WHEN CAN A SURGEON HELP?

A surgeon can advise on further treatment if the above suggestions haven’t improved the pain and your quality of life.

Your surgeon can assess your imaging and recommend cortisone steroid injections that can alleviate some forms of neck, back, arm or leg pain. An appropriate surgical operation can also significantly improve pain, mobility and quality of life.

WHAT DOES AN OPERATION INVOLVE?

Because symptoms, imaging findings and causative factors can vary significantly, a surgical procedure must be tailored for you. A traditional spine surgery procedure involves an incision along the backbone. The surgeon moves muscle and soft tissue aside to gain access to the bones of the spine and the spinal cord.

Minimally invasive techniques involve a smaller incision and special microsurgical instruments, through which the surgeon operates on the spine. Minimally invasive techniques may be able to shorten recovery time and reduce the risk of complications.

These approaches allow the surgeon to trim

away overgrown bone, ligament and joint tissue to decompress the spinal cord and spinal nerve. Some operations (for example those that help control the conditions spinal stenosis or sciatica) employ a decompression technique and at times may also require a fusion. The latter involves a surgeon placing titanium screws and rods to stabilise the spine and cause adjacent vertebrae to fuse.

There are minimally invasive ways to perform this type of surgery, and can even encompass advanced technology such as GPS-like tracking systems and robotics. If performed for the right indications, surgery can be effective in 80-90% of patients.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER SURGERY

Most patients are mobilised either on the same or following day of surgery, as early movement has been shown to be be beneficial.

You may be reviewed by a physiotherapist to provide advice on stretches, exercises and activities. Sometimes health professionals will design a rehabilitation program to meet your needs. The type of program will depend on the procedure you underwent and your level of mobility.

The goal of back and neck rehabilitation is to help you return to your highest level of fitness and independence and improve your overall quality of life.

Courtesy

Dr Raj Reddy, MBBS, MS, FRACS

Dr Raj Reddy is a neurosurgeon with special interests in complex & minimally invasive spine surgery, paediatric neurosurgery, and brain tumour surgery.

Raj manages all neurosurgical conditions, both cranial and spinal. He has a special interest in spine surgery, with foci on minimally invasive techniques as well as complex reconstructive surgery. The focus of his cranial surgery is in the management of intracranial tumours, trauma , and craniofacial operations; both adults and paediatric patients

Suite 3, Level 7

Prince of Wales Private Hospital

Barker Street, Randwick NSW 2031

P (02) 9650 4132

E enquiries@brainspine.com.au

W. www.brainspine.com.au

Dr Peter Wilson is a specialist neurosurgeon with a focus on endoscopic skull base surgery, complex spinal surgery and cranial / spinal tumour surgery.

Peter is committed to maintaining the highest level of clinical and operative care of his patients, and is constantly striving to improve his practice by perpetually evolving in pace with the latest in medical advancements. His clinical interests include:

• Pituitary disease

• Trigeminal neuralgia / hemifacial spasm

• Spinal sagittal balance

• Benign and malignant brain tumours

Suite 3, Level 7

Prince of Wales Private Hospital

Barker Street, Randwick NSW 2031

P (02) 9650 4132

E enquiries@brainspine.com.au

W. www.brainspine.com.au

Dr Raj Reddy, MBBS, MS, FRACS

Dr Peter Wilson BSc MB BS (Hons) MS MSurg FRACS (Neuro)

DR. RAJ REDDY

MBBS. MS. FRACS.

BOWLING & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE recently had the enormous privilege of chatting with Doctor Raj Reddy about the things that are important to him: his family, his extraordinary career and the impact that COVID has had on society.

Dr Raj Reddy is a dedicated neurosurgeon who strives to achieve the best possible outcome for his patients. His commitment to them is paramount; his ultimate goal is “to help patients return to their highest level of fitness and independence, and improve their overall quality of life’’. He is currently the Head of Department of Neurosurgery at the Prince of Wales Public. He also holds appointments at Prince of Wales Private, St Vincent’s Private, and The Sydney Children’s Hospital.

Doctor Reddy’s special interests include complex and minimally invasive spine surgery, paediatric neurosurgery and brain tumour surgery. He manages all neurosurgical conditions, both cranial and spinal. The focus of his cranial surgery is in the management of intracranial tumours, trauma and craniofacial operations in both adults and paediatric patients.

Raj graduated from Sydney University in 1999. He commenced his internship at Westmead Hospital and spent the following years working in general surgery, before commencing his neurosurgical training. He completed this in 2009, becoming a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of Surgeons.

Q&A WITH DR. RAJ REDDY

B&L: Congratulations Raj on your extraordinary career. Why did you become a neurosurgeon, and are other family members in the medical profession?

RAJ: Yes, my father is a GP in the Liverpool area so a career in medicine became an appealing choice for me. However, I think my parents were disappointed that I became a neurosurgeon! They wanted me to be a physician, since the life of a surgeon can be demanding.

B&L: What led you to follow the brain and spine path?

RAJ: The brain defines us, and I find operating on the brain technically and intellectually challenging. Challenges motivate me, and bring out the best of my abilities.

B&L: What was your second option if you were not successful in this field?

RAJ: I am good with my hands, so I could have become a chef, mechanic or a carpenter.

B&L: How does your family feel about your success as a surgeon and the dedication to your work?

RAJ: Being a surgeon is challenging, there is no room for complacency and mistakes. My parents and my partner are very proud of the work I do for the community.

B&L: Any plans for marriage and children?

RAJ: The short answer is yes. Unfortunately our plans have been temporarily put on hold due to COVID.

B&L: What motivates you to continue doing what you are doing?

RAJ: I want to make use of my skills and do as much good for the community as I can.

B&L: Can you tell me about your association with the other doctors in BrainSpine and how that came about?

RAJ: I am an only child; I’ve always seen the bond and strength siblings have. Hence, developing a group of doctors with a similar mindset has many positives. We brainstorm difficult cases, and manage each other’s patients when one of us is away.

B&L: What is the most common ailment you observe in your patients?

RAJ: I work in both the public and private sectors; therefore, I deal with everything that occurs in the public sector, mainly trauma and cancer, and mainly degeneration issues in the private sector.

B&L: Who do you admire in the medical field and why? Did you have a mentor?

RAJ: Yes, Doctor James Drake from Toronto because he is neurosurgical royalty, vastly skilled, and experienced – yet is grounded and acknowledges his limitations.

B&L: What is your advice for a healthy mind and body?

RAJ: Balance, moderation, and remaining active.

B&L: What are your thoughts on the COVID crisis and how should we be dealing with it?

RAJ: Unfortunately, the situation is very difficult for the public to understand, because of the changing data. The data does not change because it's wrong, it changes because we are continuously learning more about this disease. Also, the authorities' messaging is not as clear and straightforward as it could be.

B&L: People seem hesitant about receiving the jab because of side effects (blood clotting) from AstraZeneca.

RAJ: All vaccines can have side effects; however, the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the rare risk of side effects. It's better than getting COVID.

MiCare Retirement Living Villages

Beatrix Village

Our independent living units have been built to provide affordable and attractive accommodation. One and two bedroom units are available. The village offers a safe and secure environment where residents can choose a private lifestyle, or enjoy the benefits of friendship, support and shared interests within a community of likeminded individuals.

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Avondrust Village

Avondrust Village units consist of two bedrooms with a spacious living and dining area, kitchen, built-in robes, combined bathroom and laundry with seperate toilet. Each unit has its own garage and garden space along with ample visitors’ car parking. Avondrust Village is conveniently co located with Avondrust Lodge, our aged care home.

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741 Luxury Apartments

741 Apartment features 40 exquisite apartments, all with private balconies or terraces, set within landscaped grounds. There is a choice of six modern, stylish, and spacious two-bedroom designs, some with study/flex-room, to suit your lifestyle. Conveniently located across from our aged care homes, Margriet Manor and Overbeek Lodge, Kilsyth.

Mt Dandenong Rd, Kilsyth VIC 3137

Renewed focus on pancreatic cancer research will spearhead new treatment options

Members of the Putoczki Lab (L–R) Trinity Peachey, Azalea Rohaizam, Suya Shen, Ka Yee Fung, Clara Kosasih, Associate Professor Tracy Putoczki, alongside Jane Hemstritch AO and clinician-scientist Dr Belinda Lee.

L-R: Dr Belinda Lee, Associate Professor Tracy Putoczki, Jane Hemstritch AO, Clara Kosasih

www.wehi.edu.au/wills

Philip, died of the disease two-and-a-half years after diagnosis. Years earlier Philip’s father, Reg, died of the disease on the day he was diagnosed.

03 9345 2929 | diamond.ch@wehi.edu.au

said Assoc Prof Putoczki.

For confidential enquiries about making a donation or leaving a gift in Will to WEHI, contact Christine Diamond in our Future Giving team

The experience of watching Philip’s treatment led Jane to become a strong advocate for personalised medicine. Driven by this experience, Jane has pledged a generous gift to establish the Hemstritch Centre of Excellence for Pancreatic Cancer Research at WEHI.

WEHI director Professor Ken Smith said research investment was critical, given the growing number of people being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and the poor survival rates.

finding solutions never thought possible.

Millions of people live healthy lives today because of our discoveries. Our research teams are globally recognised and continue to take on the world’s major health challenges,

“WEHI is a world-class medical research institute, and like all others, requires funding from a range of sources to do its work, and I’m pleased to be in the privileged position of being able to provide support,” Jane said.

WEHI is Australia’s leading medical research institute, with more than 100 years of world-changing medical discoveries.

While Jane's generosity marks a significant milestone in the fight against pancreatic cancer, sustained financial support will be essential to realise the centre’s ambitious objectives and bring hope to countless individuals affected by this devastating disease.

Mastery of disease through discovery

At WEHI, we believe that together, we can cure the most devasting diseases. By working collaboratively and with your support, we can solve health challenges faster than ever before.

WEHI is Australia’s leading medical research institute, with more than 100 years of world-changing medical discoveries. Millions of people live healthy lives today because of our discoveries. Our research teams are globally recognised and continue to take on the world’s major health challenges, finding solutions never thought possible.

For confidential enquiries about making a donation or leaving a gift in Will to WEHI, contact Christine Diamond in our Future Giving team 03 9345 2929 | diamond.ch@wehi.edu.au www.wehi.edu.au/wills

L-R: Dr Belinda Lee, Associate Professor Tracy Putoczki, Jane Hemstritch AO, Clara Kosasih

PANTOMIME

IN AUSTRALIA CELEBRATES 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY WITH BONNIE LYTHGOE’S

Snow White

GIVEAWAY

One family pass for Bonnie Lythgoe’s Snow White pantomime at Riverside Parramatta on 7 September, 7:30pm

2 Adults 2 Children

To be in the draw, send your email to bowlsplus1@bigpond.com WINNER WILL BE ADVISED BY EMAIL

STARRING DEBORA KRIZAK as the ‘Wicked Queen’ IN EXCLUSIVE SYDNEY SEASON AT RIVERSIDE THEATRES, PARRAMATTA FROM 7 SEPTEMBER 2024

After five years, the queen of pantomime Bonnie Lythgoe is back! Celebrating the 10-year anniversary of bringing ‘panto’ to Australia, Bonnie Lythgoe Productions announces a brandnew version of SNOW WHITErunning for an exclusive limited season from 7 September at Riverside Theatres, Parramatta.

SNOW WHITE was the first panto that Bonnie Lythgoe brought to Australia in 2014, and she’s delighted to charm audiences from ages 3 to 103 again with this special new fairytale production.

Also announced today is the casting of Australian musical theatre darling, Debora Krizak, starring as the glorious ‘Wicked Queen’. Debora has been a leading lady in productions spanning over two decades, including The Producers, Anything Goes, Mamma Mia, Cinderella, Billy Elliot, A Chorus Line, and Sweet Charity.

Bonnie Lythgoe said: “The beloved story of Snow White is a show for adults as much as it is for the kids, known for its interactive style and humour. I cannot wait to welcome back Australian audiences to boo, hiss and cheer together again,

and we’re absolutely thrilled to have Debora Krizak joining us as everyone’s favourite fairytale nemesis!”

A Bonnie Lythgoe panto is a magical theatrical experience with a rollicking mix of song, dance and good old-fashioned fun with a modern twist. The show is hilarious one minute yet heartfelt and imaginative the next, with spectacular sets and costumes to wow the audience.

Previous Bonnie Lythgoe Productions have been a critical, sell-out success, including Cinderellastarring Jimmy Rees, Jack and the Beanstalk starring Lucy Durack, Aladdin starring Beau Ryan, and the original Snow White starring Magda Szubanski, Sir Cliff Richard and Kyle Sandilands. More casting announcements coming soon. Tickets on sale today. For more information visit: www.ozpanto.com or @ozpanto

Venue: Riverside Theatres, Cnr Market & Church Street, Parramatta

Dates: Sat 7 & Sun 8; Friday 13, Sat 14 & Sun15 September Tickets: from $59 Bookings: https://riversideparramatta. com.au/whats-on/snow-white/

We’ve partnered with Gathered Here to provide our supporters a free and easy step-by-step online Will writing service.

In less than 10 minutes you can have a life-long impact on sick kids, with free and unlimited updates for life.

Scan the QR code to learn more or access our free Will writing service, or call our friendly team on 07 3606 6100 today.

@childrensorgau

childrens.org.au

How Glenda’s love of children will save little lives like Ava

As a mother, grandmother, and teacher, children have always been a focus in Glenda’s life. Now, through the gift she has left in her Will to the Children’s Hospital Foundation, helping sick kids like Ava is her legacy.

Creating a lasting legacy

For Glenda, leaving a gift in her Will to the Children’s Hospital Foundation was a unique opportunity to share what she has with future generations to impact the lives of our “beautiful children”.

“I had been a regular donor to the Children’s Hospital Foundation. The more I learned about their wonderful work, the more my passion for supporting them grew. And leaving a gift in my Will was the logical next step,” shares Glenda.

While no gift can ever give back all that childhood illness takes away, the kindness people like Glenda show can help save childhoods and lives.

Glenda’s gift - and every gift left in Wills to the Children’s Hospital Foundation - will support groundbreaking research, help fund new and essential equipment, and provide on the ground support for every sick kid who comes through the doors of the Queensland Children’s Hospital.

Glenda’s generosity will help save more kids like Ava.

Saving little lives

At just 7 years old, Ava was in grave danger of becoming what her oncologist calls one of the “lovely ghosts” of cancer - one of the children who can’t be cured.

What was first thought to be a virus turned out to be stage 4 neuroblastoma - a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer and was given less than a 50% chance of survival.

Traditional treatments weren’t working for her, and after a grueling regime of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, Ava’s chances of survival dropped to less than 30%.

Hope through innovation

After all other treatment options had been exhausted, Ava’s oncologist organised for her to take part in a trial at the Queensland Children’s Hospital that combined immunotherapy and chemotherapy.

Ava was one of the first children at Queensland Children’s Hospital to benefit from this innovative new treatment, offering new hope for a cancer-free future.

“By the third treatment, the cancer that was riddled in the hard parts of her bones had all gone,” said Tiffiany, Ava’s mum.

By giving even just 1% of your estate to the Children’s Hospital Foundation, after your loved ones are taken of, you could be the difference kids like Ava deserve.

Just like Glenda, you could give hope to families now and into the future.

“I would encourage everyone when writing or updating your Will to consider leaving a legacy to the Children’s Hospital Foundation. Every little amount helps, and you will become part of the fabulous family,” Glenda says. To

$3.1 MILLION RAISED IN

NRL BEANIE

MEDIA RELEASE: Sunday, June 16

FOR BRAIN CANCER ROUND 2024 THE AUSTRALIAN PUBLIC DIGS DEEP TO PURCHASE OVER 135,000 MHF BEANIES FOR BRAIN CANCER THE BIG THREE TREK FROM SYDNEY TO NEWCASTLE RAISES OVER $230,000

The Australian public has rallied behind the Mark Hughes Foundation this week to raise an astonishing $3.1 million in the 2024 edition of NRL Beanie for Brain Cancer round.

$3.1 MILLION RAISED IN NRL BEANIE FOR BRAIN CANCER ROUND 2024

In what can only be described as a roaring success, a staggering 135,000 MHF Beanie’s were sold, exceeding expectations set in the eighth year of the NRL’s official charity round and setting a new online sales record.

this amazing community, and more determined and motivated than ever to continue our fight to tackle this insidious disease. By embracing a ‘one team’ mentality, where competition gives way to collaboration, we will keep make progress in the fight against brain cancer.”

NRL CEO, Andrew Abdo, said the power and generosity of the Rugby League community was felt this round. “There is nothing more inspiring than when the Rugby League community unites behind a worthy cause,” Mr Abdo said. “Players and fans all wearing beanies at matches this weekend meant that once again we were able to raise awareness and much needed research funding for fighting brain cancer. This will hopefully help save many lives in the future. “Thank you to everyone who contributed and congratulations to Mark Hughes and the Foundation for leading the fight against this disease.”

THE AUSTRALIAN PUBLIC DIGS DEEP TO PURCHASE OVER 135,000 MHF BEANIES FOR BRAIN CANCER

Significant financial contributions were made throughout Beanie Round that pushed the final amount to the target set by MHF. Forming The Big Three Trek, 64 trekkers departed NRL Headquarters in Sydney on Friday to walk 150 kilometres across three days in torrential rain on their way to McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle raising over $230,000 for MHF.

This season’s designs are still available online or at participating Lowes and IGA stores to purchase.

THE BIG THREE TREK FROM SYDNEY TO NEWCASTLE RAISES OVER $230,000

Brain Cancer statistics

• Survival rates have increased by 1% over the last 35 years

• Kills more children than any other disease

The Australian public has rallied behind the Mark Hughes Foundation this week to raise an astonishing $3.1 million in the 2024 edition of NRL Beanie for Brain Cancer round.

Sportsbet donated $66,000 after 66 tries were scored across the round, with $1000 donated per try scored.

MHF Founder, Mark Hughes, who was on site at McDonald Jones Stadium for the final game of Beanie Round, said: “The rugby league community seems to find a way to lift every year, no matter what’s going on in the world. We understand that financially times are tough for everyone in the country right now, so to help us raise $3.1 million dollars is just incredible. It will never be lost on us how special it is for people to still find it important to buy a beanie or donate to MHF ” “What the wider media does this week to act as a megaphone for our cause, and help build the awareness and support cannot be measured. “I have to extend a gigantic thank you to the NRL, Channel 9, Fox League and the entire rugby league media for sharing stories of our brain cancer warriors, reinforcing the dire statistics and facts on brain cancer through all platforms is what makes it so real for people to understand why this round is so important. “On behalf of the MHF team and our army of volunteers who all work so hard, we simply want to say thank you to every single person who contributed to our cause. We are blessed to be surrounded by

• Only 2/10 people diagnosed will live more than 5 years

• Kills more people under 40 than any other cancer

In what can only be described as a roaring success, a staggering 135,000 MHF Beanie’s were sold, exceeding expectations set in the eighth year of the NRL’s official charity round and setting a new online sales record

• Receives less than 5% of federal funding for cancer research

• One person every 5 hours is diagnosed in Australia

About NRL Beanie Round and MHF

Significant financial contributions were made throughout Beanie Round that pushed the final amount to the target set by MHF. Forming The Big Three Trek, 64 trekkers departed NRL Headquarters in Sydney on Friday to walk 150 kilometres across three days in torrential rain on their way to McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle raising over $230,000 for MHF.

2024 is the eighth NRL Beanie for Brain Cancer Round since it began in 2017. The officially themed NRL round was the idea of former Channel 9 NRL producer Matt Callander in collaboration with MHF, who bravely battled a stage 4 Glioblastoma himself. He sadly lost his battle with brain cancer in October 2017.

Sportsbet donated $66,000 after 66 tries were scored across the round, with $1000 donated per try scored

The Mark Hughes Foundation (MHF) is a charity formed in Newcastle by Mark and Kirralee Hughes following Mark’s diagnosis with Brain Cancer in 2013. The Mark Hughes Foundation’s mission is to raise much needed funds for research, to create awareness and support brain cancer patients and their families.

2024 MHF BEANIES ARE STILL AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE HERE

Collagen is a major component of the human body. It is a protein that is the building blocks of the body or the glue that holds everything together and makes up 30% of your body’s protein.

It is in your skin, bone and also makes up the lining of your arteries, organs and intestines.

However, by your late 20’s we start to lose collagen, so it’s important to replenish your collagen, especially as it’s essential for almost all of your body’s systems and your overall health. There are a lot of benefits to taking Collagen. Your skin benefits by reducing skin ageing, improving elasticity and hydration. On the inside it increases fat loss and muscle gain and strength. Reduces joint pain and stiffness helping to reduce wear and tear on your joints. Improves bone mineral density and bone growth (pretty important as you get older). Reduces tendon and ligament injuries as well as tendonitis and supports cartilage health. Collagen is particularly important for those experiencing joint problems, whether these are due to injury, an inflammatory condition like arthritis, or just the natural effects of aging.

MAGIC POTION FOR YOUR HEALTH:

CollagenActiv

Increase strength & enhance mobility with anti-inflammatory & anti-aging supplement - CollagenActiv.

Marine collagen + Cyactiv = Dual-Action power supplement that is delicious and has essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to support your internal and external body AND skin health.

Marine collagen strengthens our connective tissues:

• muscles

• skin

• hair

• nails

• bones

• ligaments and more

Cyactiv reduces whole-body inflammation to support:

• full range of motion

• healthy inflammation response

• stem cell function (allowing the body to recover and repair more efficiently)

HydraActiv Electrolyte INCREASE HYDRATION | DECREASE INFLAMMATION

When you see that 3 out of 4 people suffer from dehydration; that’s 75% of the human population drinking less than 2.5 cups/ glasses of water per day it makes sense to take HydraActiv which equals 3 large glasses of water.

This electrolyte formula is fortified with magnesium which offers improved health, supporting hydration, muscle function, cardiovascular health, energy metabolism, stress management, and cognitive function. Incorporating such a formula into one's daily routine can help individuals achieve peak physical and mental performance while safeguarding against various health issues, ultimately contributing to a vibrant and active lifestyle.

Incorporating vitamin B complex into an electrolyte formula enhances energy production, nervous system function, mood regulation, and cardiovascular health. Together with electrolytes, vitamin B complex contributes to hydration, energy metabolism, and overall vitality, making it a valuable addition to support optimal health and performance. HydaActiv, like CollagenActiv is also a full body anti-inflammatory.

COLLAGEN PEPTIDES TO REBUILD, REPAIR AND HEAL YOUR BODY

BOWLS AUSTRALIA WAS SADDENED TO HEAR OF THE RECENT PASSING OF HALL

OF FAME MEMBER

CHRISTOPHER “ARNOLD” O’BRIEN OAM.

Arnold was a lifelong bowls administrator, inducted into the Bowls Australia Hall of Fame in 2017 for more than six decades of service and commitment to bowls both in Victoria and Australia.

While boasting achievements both on and off the green, O’Brien will be remembered for his tireless work and contribution to the sport in a non-playing capacity.

He was recognised with an Australian Sports Medal in 2000, presented with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his services to the sport in 2004 and was made a Bowls Victoria life member in 2006.

At an international level, O’Brien served on Bowls Australia’s selection committee in 2002, before taking the reins as Chairman for a term

of three years from 2003.

He was also a marker and umpire at the sport’s premier event, in the 1980 World Bowls Championships.

From a state perspective, O’Brien had a distinguished tenure with the Royal Victorian Bowls Association (now Bowls Victoria), serving as a Councillor for 21 years in total, which included the roles of Vice President from 1994 to 1998, Deputy President from 1998 to 2000, and at the helm as President for a further three year period from 2000 to 2003.

A proud Victorian, having represented the Big V in over 200 occasions, O’Brien also served on the state’s selection committee for 26 years, 12 of which as Chairman, and the coaching committee for 21 years, 13 as Chairman.

BOWLERS AMONGST KING’S BIRTHDAY

HONOURS

RECIPIENTS

Nearly 500 Australians have been recognised with King’s Birthday honours, with a handful of people from the bowls community among the recipients.

Several member of the bowls community from across the country were recognised with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to their community, including work they have done with bowls clubs and in the sport.

This year, one person was recognised specifically for their service to lawn bowls.

Ken Forbes was recognised with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) honour.

Mr Forbes has contributed to bowls for several decades in various capacities. He is a life member at Windang Bowling Club where he is a former president and has played at since the 1980s, and is the Illawarra Zone 16 Bowls Association president, serving in that role since 2008.

Many others have been recognised for their overall

2024 Australia Day honours recipients (bowls contributors)

Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM):

Mr Kenneth James Forbes

For service to lawn bowls Illawarra Zone 16 Bowls Association

• President, since 2008

• Delegate, Bowls NSW, since 2008

• Vice President, 2005-2007

• Delegate, 2000-2005 Windang Bowling Club

• President, 2001-2007

• Former Vice President, two years

• Former Director

• Life Member, since 2019

• Member, since mid 1980s Bowls – Other

• Former Secretary, Wollongong City Bowling Club, two years

• Former President, Illawarra Mercury Bowls Committee, two years.

Mr Michael Nicholas Litis

For service to the community through sports organisations

Hellenic Lawn Bowling Club, Castellorizian Association

• President, six years

• Former Secretary, 14 years

• Former Treasurer

• Executive Member, 30 years

contribution to their communities, including bowls. See all those names and their bowls contributions below.

Bowls Australia congratulates all recipients for their commitment to their communities and the sport over many years.

To view all 2024 King’s Birthday honour recipients, click here.

• Convenor, Corporate Bowls fundraising events, since 2008

• Editor, History of the Hellenic Bowling Club – two editions, 1990, and 2010-2014

• Member, since 1992

• Life Member, 2006

Sport – Other

• Board Member, Osborne Park Bowling Club, 2005-2007.

Ms Rhonda Joan Parker

For service to the community of Boyup Brook

Boyup Brook Bowling Club

• Secretary/Treasurer, since 2019

• Member, since 2015.

Mr Lance Raymond Boswell

For service to the communities of Albury and Howlong

Howlong Country Golf Club, Howlong Bowling Club

• President, 1983-2003

• Treasurer, 1964-2004

• Former Committee Member, 42 years

• Former Deputy Chairman, Management Committee

• Former Member, Building Committee

• Life Member, 1983.

Mrs Helen Nance Pittman

For service to the community through a range of organisations Woonona Women’s Bowling Club

• President, 2019-2021

• Publicity Officer, 2017-2020

• Secretary, 2017-2019

• Assistant Treasurer, 2014-2015

• Charity Garage Sale Coordinator, since 2010

• Facebook Marketplace Coordinator, since 2019

• Annual Charity Bowls Days Committee, 2010-2020

• Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea Coordinator, 2002-2020

• Member, since 2000

• Community – Other

• Board Member, Woonona Men’s and Women’s Bowling and Recreation Club, since 2019

• Organiser, Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea, Edgewood and Woonona Womens Bowling Club 2003-2019

Mr Kenneth Ronald Dixon

For service to youth, and to the community of the Central Coast.

Ettalong Memorial Bowling Club

• Vice President, and Charity Bowls Coordinator, current.

• Past President

T ogethe r, we ca n build a b etter f uture for people, a nimals a nd t he planet

your gift could help koalas, elephants and their habitats to survive and thrive far into the future

O u r n atu r al wo r l d ne e d s u s . Only together, through collaboration and action can we answer the call. For over 50 years and with projects in more than 40 countries the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) rescues individual animals, prevents animal cruelty and campaigns for the protection of wildlife and habitats.

Our work is only possible because of the generosity of our supporters, many of whom have chosen to leave a gift to IFAW in their Will. In fact, for every f fi ve animals IFAW has helped, o ne has been saved thanks to the generosity of gifts in Wills. And the impact of those gifts is never limited to just one individual animal.

Including IFAW in your Will is a powerful way to continue making an impact that helps people and animals thrive together. A gift in your Will extends your legacy as part of IFAW’s change-making boots on the ground around the world.

You can continue helping rescue and rehabilitate individual animals, like Sally the 2-year-old elephant calf who was entangled in a poacher’s snare when we rescued her and airlifted her to the IFAW-supported Wild

is Life-ZEN Elephant Nursery in Zimbabwe where she’s continuing her journey back to the wild.

You can be a lasting part of our fight against illegal wildlife trafficking, such as training and equipping wildlife rangers to intercept traffickers, investigate crime scenes and ensure proper care for living animals seized as part of prevention operations.

You can continue to play a vital role in our long-term landscape conservation efforts, like Room to Roam, our innovative approach to conservation in Africa that aims to ensure viable, stable, resilient elephant populations long into the future.

You’ll be part of saving the few remaining North Atlantic right whales, rehabilitating koalas burned by bushfires in Australia, rescuing animals caught up in natural disasters, fighting for legislation that better protects animals and much, much more.

G Gi fts i n W i l l s ma ke al l t hi s p o s s i b l e For more information, please contact Naomi Hepperlin on 02 9288 4988 or nhepperlin@ifaw.org

Download your free Will information guide here:

©IFAW

©IFAW

Cruising comes home: Sailing in Australia, New Zealand and the

South Pacific

Local waters have long been the most popular for Australian and New Zealand cruise fans. Travel writer and avid cruiser Sally Macmillan looks at what we can expect in our region as cruising rebounds.

Cruise ports big and small around Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific are gearing up to welcome dozens of ships and thousands of travel-starved passengers for the 2022-23 Wave Season. It’s been a long time between visits and all the major cruise lines are returning to local waters, several of them deploying ships in the region for the first time.

New This Summer

P&O Cruises’ Pacific Explorer will be joined by the freshly refurbished Pacific Encounter and Pacific Adventure in August and October 2022. Adventure becomes the fleet’s flagship and will homeport in Sydney, Encounter will be based in Brisbane and Explorer will offer seasonal cruising from Auckland, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane and Cairns. Between them, the three ships will sail to an impressive array of Australian and South Pacific destinations, including Papua New Guinea, New Zealand and Fiji.

Princess Cruises’ Coral Princess is sailing her first local season out of Brisbane until May, when she heads off on her world cruise and Grand Princess will debut in Australia in October, sailing out of Melbourne and Adelaide. Majestic Princess will also offer a wide selection of cruises around Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Eclipse will be based in Sydney between October 2022 and April 2023 for her inaugural season of cruises visiting Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. Port Arthur is a new port for Celebrity, and some Pacific itineraries include calls to Fiji, Tonga and Samoa.

Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth will make her first circumnavigation of Australia in November before sailing a range of two- to 21-night itineraries in Australia and New Zealand until the end of March. The

Culinary Voyage in January, hosted by Matt Moran, is another (very popular) first for Queen Elizabeth.

In November, Carnival Cruise Line is introducing Carnival Luminosa, which will be based in Brisbane. Itineraries will include the Great Barrier Reef, Airlie Beach and the South Pacific, while Carnival Splendor returns to Sydney for cruises to Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

In December, Norwegian Cruise Line’s extensively refurbished Norwegian Spirit will make her debut Down Under, sailing transTasman and Pacific itineraries until March. Meanwhile, on the luxury front, Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Explorer arrives in Australia in December for her first Asia-Pacific season, but sadly for fans of the ‘most luxurious cruise ship ever built’ it is almost entirely sold out – best get in quick for her return in 2023-2024!

Another much smaller ship sailing in the region for the first time is Windstar Cruises’ 312-guest Star Breeze. Lengthened and remodelled in 2020, Star Breeze will offer a series of cruises around Australia and New Zealand between December and February.

Something For Everyone

Cruising encompasses a wide range of lifestyles and budgets and this season, cruisers can choose to cruise in our own backyard on everything from family friendly megaships to ultra-luxe boutique ships.

Royal Caribbean’s high-tech Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas will be the biggest ships in the region, accommodating some 4,000 guests each. Holland America Line’s 1,972-guest Noordam and 1,964-guest Westerdam make a welcome return Down Under, and the ships mentioned above, sailing locally for Carnival, Celebrity, Cunard, NCL, P&O and Princess, cater for between 1,900 and 3,000 guests.

MSC Cruises will bring two ships to local waters in February, each catering to 3,000 passengers. The MSC Poesia will visit Auckland, Sydney Brisbane and Cairns as part of a world cruise, while MSC Magnifica will visit Auckland, Hobart, Sydney, Cairns as Darwin, also on a world cruise.

At the smaller end of the scale, Oceania Cruises’ 1200-guest Regatta arrives in Sydney in December for seven itineraries that include a

35-night circumnavigation of Australia, while Azamara Cruises’ 702-guest Azamara Quest will sail a variety of Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific cruises between December and February. Ultra-luxe lines Seabourn and Silversea are returning to local waters from December to March with, respectively, Seabourn Odyssey (458 guests), Silver Muse (596 guests), Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper (392 guests apiece). Prepare for some serious onboard pampering and new adventures ashore! A few weeks after her sister ships depart, Silver Explorer will arrive in Australia in May for the Kimberley season.

Luxury adventure line Ponant has an exciting line-up of ships and itineraries coming up. Le Soleal and Le Laperouse will explore less-travelled destinations in the South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand between October and February. Then in April, Ponant’s 30-guest, three-masted Le Ponant will make her debut in the Kimberley, joined by Le Laperouse; Le Soleal will also offer Kimberley itineraries from June to October. Meanwhile, Ponant’s Le Paul Gauguin cruises in the South Pacific year-round.

APT’s 90-guest MS Caledonian Sky is another Kimberley favourite. From October to May, she will offer a series of expedition cruises around the Great Barrier Reef, Tasmania and South Australia before heading back north for the 2023 season.

The long-established Australian company Coral Expeditions operates three ships that cruise all over Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. Purpose-built for exploring tropical destinations, Coral Discoverer accommodates 72 guests while sister ships Coral Adventurer and Coral Geographer accommodate 120 guests each. Last but certainly not least, New Zealand’s Heritage Expeditions

runs more expeditions around less-travelled parts of New Zealand than any other cruise line, with itineraries ranging from seven to 17 days. Its two ships are the 140-guest Heritage Adventurer and the 18-guest, New Zealand-built motoryacht Heritage Explorer.

Health and Safety

As the world ‘learns to live with’ covid, cruise lines have implemented stringent health and safety protocols for crew and guests. Accommodation is set aside for isolation purposes, all crew have to be fully vaccinated and all guests should check what vaccinations and tests are required with individual cruise lines before booking. Policies about wearing masks in public areas onboard vary from line to line, but as at home, it makes sense to mask up and maintain social distancing wherever possible. On most ships, you no longer have to gather in large groups for muster drill – you’ll watch it on your TV or device instead. It’s also advisable to avoid using lifts whenever you can – apart from adding a bit of incidental exercise by using the stairs, passenger numbers in lifts will be limited and the wait will be longer. Serving yourself at the buffet is uncommon on many lines – instead, staff working behind glass counters will serve you at food stations.

Finally, a word about travel insurance. It’s important to remember that even when cruising in Australian waters, you’re not covered by Medicare for medical problems. Cover for covid is complex and you should ask your travel agent for expert advice. If you’re doing your own research, read the product disclosure statement (PDS) thoroughly before paying the premium.

Written by Sally Macmillan. Cruise Specialist

Health measures mean we sail with confidence

Even as borders were closing through the first months of the pandemic, cruise lines were already working with medical experts to redefine how we cruise.

Scientists, epidemiologists and other respected medical advisors had begun a complete bow-to-stern review of cruising, looking at every aspect of the cruise experience to decide how it might need to change in response to Covid-19.

The result is the most extensive set of new health protocols to be found in almost any industry, allowing a careful resumption of cruise operations that began in some countries as early as the second half of 2020.

“From the outset, cruise lines knew the only possible response to the pandemic was to get the best medical advice from the experts and ensure that health and safety remained the top priority,” said Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Managing Director Australasia Joel Katz.

“To win the confidence of travellers, we had to show we had measures in place that would not only mitigate against the risks of Covid-19, but also provide detailed response plans to deal with any cases that might emerge.”

The cruise industry’s health protocols are still among the most stringent to be found anywhere in tourism and go well beyond the Covid-19 measures in place on land.

In Australasia, they include testing and vaccination requirements for passengers and crew as well as extensive protocols covering aspects like distancing, sanitation, ventilation, and response procedures.

Millions of passengers have sailed successfully under these measures in more than 100 countries where cruise operations have resumed, including in Europe, North America, the Caribbean, Asia, South America, Africa, and Australasia.

“The experience around the world where ships have been operating for some time has been that serious illness due to Covid-19 is rare on cruise ships, thanks to testing and vaccination requirements and extensive onboard measures,” Mr Katz said.

“In fact, rates of hospitalisations due to Covid-19 are between 30 and 80 times lower on cruise ships than they are on land.”

Cruise ships have enhanced medical facilities on board and staffing

for potential Covid-19 isolation and treatment. There are detailed response plans in place and close cooperation with health authorities for reporting and management of suspected or confirmed cases.

“No setting is immune to Covid-19, but we have the processes in place to reduce the risks of Covid-19 getting on board and for dealing responsibly with the virus when cases do appear,” Mr Katz said.

For the passenger, the health measures mean relatively few changes to the way they enjoy their cruise, but provide layers of precautions and protocols behind the scenes.

In Australasia, those who sail are required to be vaccinated against Covid-19 and to have proof of their vaccination, though there are processes in place for small children and those with medical exemptions.

Guests are also required to take a Covid-19 test and receive a negative result prior to travelling, and must complete health declarations before boarding.

Cruise lines provide instructions to make the process as smooth as possible, often involving apps or online systems to gather the necessary requirements. They also provide healthy sailing advice, including in-cabin information and videos, to help explain the new cruise environment and provide other instructions.

“The most reassuring aspect is that the essential cruise experience is still there, just as we enjoyed before the pandemic,” Mr Katz said.

“The reaction we keep hearing from cruise passengers is that they love being back at sea and have confidence in the health protocols we have in place. The experience we’ve had in other countries shows this confidence only continues to grow.”

Sailing towards zero carbon

Clear waters and a pristine natural environment are both essential parts of the cruise experience, and cruise lines have long worked to protect the oceans, rivers and landscapes they sail to.

But as the world strives to reduce carbon emissions and tackle the effects of climate change, the cruise industry has united around even greater ambitions that will define the ships of the future.

Around the world, cruise lines are investing billions of dollars in new ships and new technologies that make sustainability the priority in cruising. The issue has become the most critical topic of discussion in cruising – at every level from the board rooms to the shipyards – and new innovations will be needed to help achieve the industry’s goals.

“This has been building for some time and there are already many important developments pioneered by the cruise sector,” said Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Managing Director Australasia Joel Katz.

“New alternative fuels, new sources of clean energy and new ways to protect our marine environment are already a reality and delivering results, but there is still more to achieve.”

CLIA cruise lines recently announced new emissions targets that will set the standard for cruising into coming decades and help drive further investment in sustainable operations. Ocean-going CLIA members are now pursuing net zero carbon cruising by 2050 and are working on the technological advances needed to achieve this – not just for cruising but for the wider shipping sector globally.

“Around the world we’re seeing increasing use of low-emission transitional fuels like LNG and technologies like exhaust gas cleaning systems which make big reductions in cruise ship emissions,” Mr Katz said.

LNG fuel produces zero sulphur emissions, 85% lower nitrogen oxide emissions, almost 100% fewer particulate emissions and a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

The world’s first LNG-powered ship was introduced at the end of

2018, and by 2027 LNG will power more than half the new capacity of the global cruise fleet. Importantly, LNG is also a transitional fuel, which means LNG-ready ships can adapt to a future generation of fuels that will bring further benefits in coming years.

“These new fuels will require a considerable amount of research and development, but we already see potential alternatives on the horizon,” Mr Katz said. “Cruise lines are embarking on joint ventures with fuel companies and other developers, and we’re seeing more investment in future fuels and power sources like biofuel, methanol, ammonia, hydrogen, hybrid propulsion and electric batteries.”

Cruise ships are also maintaining a focus on reducing waste and recycling. In some cases, cruise operators can repurpose up to 100% of waste generated on board by removing, reusing, recycling, and converting waste to energy.

Other advances protect the waters ships sail upon, like the advanced wastewater treatment systems now in use aboard most cruise ships. These systems will be used on all new ships on order and can treat wastewater to a higher standard than systems used in many coastal cities.

Efforts to achieve greater sustainability also extend into social and economic areas, where the cruise industry is working closely with communities to develop responsible tourism management practices that maximise economic benefits while minimising other impacts of visitation.

At the same time, cruise lines are working in developing countries to help create business opportunities and support charitable efforts in areas of health, education, conservation, and wildlife protection.

“The cruise industry represents less than 1% of world shipping, but we aim to be leaders internationally when it comes to reducing emissions and protecting the environment,” Mr Katz said.

“Cruise tourism brings enormous benefits to communities around the world, but our aim is to ensure these benefits can continue in a way that is sustainable and provides lasting results.”

Source: Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia

For decades group travel has been one of the most popular forms of travel available for like minded friends. For more than 20 years, Groups Tasmania has been providing Clubs and groups from all over the world the opportunity to explore our wonderful State without the pressure of having to plan an itinerary or book everything themselves. Group touring is about being shown around by locals and really capturing the essence of the destination. It means seeing the famous attractions but also wandering off the tourist trail. So much more than just a coach tour, you’ll experience the culture, meet the locals and savour the wonderful food.

Our well-balanced tailor made itineraries are designed with the traveller in mind. We put great effort into getting the right balance between organised touring and free time, after all it is a holiday! We include all the essential sights that others consider “optional extras”, while providing plenty of time for you to explore & discover.

• COACH TOURS

The best way to see the spectacular island state of Tasmania is on board a well appointed coach, with different sizes available depending on the number in your group. Let your experienced and knowledgeable coach captains do the driving while you relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

• CAR CLUBS

Tasmanian roads are renowned for their appeal to car and motorcycle enthusiasts, with its natural topography allowing for long sweeping roads through undulating hills and magnificent scenery.

• EDUCATIONAL TOURS

Tasmania is a popular destination for educational tours with its history, scenery and perceived isolation from the rest of Australia playing a major role in drawing schools to Tasmania for a memorable life experience.

Opening in February 2000, Groups Tasmania was established as a Nationally Accredited Tourism Operator by David Luttrell with a vision to provide excellent service in the expanding market of coach touring. Tasmanian owned and operated, Groups Tasmania offers comprehensive knowledge and experience of holidaying in your Natural State. David and Brett are true Tasmanian’s with both having in excess of 25 years specifically selling Tasmania as a holiday destination and we would love you to benefit from our knowledge and to share our passion for Tasmania.

We specialise in itinerary planning for every kind of group from schools to car clubs through to senior community groups and everything in between! We can arrange your travel arrangements including flights, Spirit of Tasmania, accommodation, meals and attractions in Tasmania.

If your organisation is looking at Tasmania as a destination for its next conference we can also assist with day tours and pre or post conference tours.

Basically if you have a group that is looking to travel to Tasmania then Groups Tasmania can be your one stop shop and most importantly help you put together a memorable trip.

12 Nichols Street, Kings Meadows Tasmania 7249

Phone: 0409 857892 (David)

Email: david@groupstasmania.com.au

Website: www.groupstasmania.com.au

Tasmanian Group Travel Specialists

Coach Tours

The best way to see the spectacular island state of Tasmania is on board one of our well-appointed coaches. Let our experienced and knowledgeable coach captains do the driving while you relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Whether you are a Bowls Club Probus Club, Rotary Club, Sporting Club, Special Interest Group or just a group of friends wishing to travel around Tasmania, we can help make your trip memorable. If your Club is considering Tasmania as their next destination, then let Groups Tasmania assist you in preparing an itinerary that won’t disappoint. Our vast experience in selling Tasmania as a tourist destination has brought us to the forefront in group travel in Tasmania.

Groups Tasmania can organize everything your coach, accommodation, meals, attractions and sightseeing to the smallest detail including that surprise birthday cake for one of your members whilst on tour!

By using our expertise on Tasmania you are guaranteed to see everything you wanted plus some hidden treasures you didn’t know existed!

Tasmanian Group Travel Specialists

Groups Tasmania specialise in itinerary planning for every kind of group from schools to car clubs through to senior community groups and everything in between!

We can arrange your travel arrangements including accommodation, meals and attractions in Tasmania.

Tasmania is a popular destination for educational tours with its history, scenery and perceived isolation from the rest of Australia playing a major role in drawing schools to Tasmania for a memorable life experience.

Coach Tours Tasmania offer Day Tours ex Launceston. Choose from tours including Cradle Mountain, Tamar Valley Wineries, Bay of Fires, MONA, Salamanca, Tasmanian Produce, Tasmanian Wildlife, Estates, gardens and more.

Are you looking at Tasmania as a destination for your future Conference or Special Event? Groups Tasmania offer a free registration service and can assist committees with all their particulars in organising a conference in Tasmania.

“May I compliment you – on behalf of the organising committee – and to your staff for all that you have done. It has been a huge mission and I am enormously proud of the professionalism which everyone has demonstrated in bringing to fruition a remarkably successful Nationals’ event.”

“On behalf of ICPA Tasmania and the 2014 Convening Committee, I would like to say a huge thank you for all you did with the registrations and accommodation bookings. Verbal and written feedback on the conference, subsequent emails and correspondence has all been exceptionally positive, including quite a few who mentioned the ease of the online registrations. As a totally voluntary association, we are very appreciative of your sponsorship and support which helped to enable us to host a professional and affordable conference for the rural and remote families who travelled great distances from all over Australia to attend.”

WINES OF THE WEST FESTIVAL

SATURDAY 17 & SUNDAY 18 AUGUST | 11AM-5PM

Save the date for the annual Wines of the West festival, returning to The Carrington on Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th August 2024. This event showcases wines from the Blue Mountains and Central West Region of NSW and this year we have an outstanding lineup of winemakers from the Megalong Valley, Bathurst, Orange, Mudgee and more – all under one roof.

Our confirmed wineries include: Petersons Wines, Walter Wines, Gilbert Family Wines, First Ridge, Stockman’s Ridge, Cooks Lot, Rowlee Wines, Megalong Creek Estate, Twisted River Wines, Orange Mountain Wines, Zinga Wines, Mansfield Wines, Macquariedale, Antionio D’Onise, Robert Stein, Colmar Estate and Matthew Atallah Wines.

Our relaxed festival space will allow you to speak directly with the winemakers, sample their varieties on offer and pick up some fabulous wines from the Cellar Door.

ENTRY IS $20 PER PERSON, VALID FOR BOTH FESTIVAL DAYS AND INCLUDES:

• Exclusive access for ticket holders only.

• Cellar door experience including wine tasting.

• Festival discounts, offers, and promotions across the weekend.

• www.thecarrington.com.au

Caloundra

QUEENSLAND’S TOP TOURISM TOWN

The southern belle of the Sunshine Coast, Caloundra is a coastal hotspot beloved for its vibrant street art, epic attractions, and trendy eateries. Recently awarded the prestigious title of Queensland’s Top Tourism Town, you'll easily come to love this family favorite as you uncover Caloundra’s abundance of places to shop, explore and stay. So, throw your beach towel in your bag and let us show you around our playground by the sea!

Apart from enjoying our many beaches, the coastal walkway, shopping, and hinterland excursions, there are lots of Tourist attractions for you to spend a few hours of your leisure time within an easy drive.

Australia Zoo

The world-famous Australia Zoo is a 25-minute drive south along Steve Irwin Way. Australia Zoo offers a full day of wildlife action and adventure, where you can check out all the amazing wildlife, set on over 70 acres of natural Australian bushland. There are over 10 shows where you can watch the free-flight bird show, snakes slithering, tigers at play and the huge saltwater crocs! Crikey!

Amaze World

GET LOST in this living hedge maze with 2-metre-high rows of fragrant cypress pine hedges. Appealing to all age groups. Bring a picnic lunch or treat yourself to Devonshire tea or Lavazza coffee.

Caloundra Cruise

Discover Caloundra on this fabulous 1 hour 30-minute cruise.

Caloundra

See the Pumicestone Passage, Bribie Island and Pelican Waters. On Tuesdays and Fridays, you can enjoy a relaxing one hour sunset cruise. (Frequent Stayers Discounts apply)

Flight-Seeing Tours

If you've never had a flight along the Sunshine Coast at 1,000 feet in a light aircraft, you have missed an unforgettable experience. (Frequent Stayers Discounts apply)

Skydiving

Sunshine Coast Tandem skydiving operates from Caloundra airport, landing on one of the local beaches. Go from 0 to 200 km/h in 10 seconds. An experience you will never forget!

Underwater World Sea Life Mooloolaba

20 minutes north to Mooloolaba. A fascinating range of animal experiences you will never forget!

What The Locals Love

♥ Hiring a boat from Bills Boat Hire and exploring the stunning waterways.

♥ Going for a refreshing morning swim at Kings Beach beachfront saltwater pool.

♥ Cuddling a camel at QCamel

♥ Enjoying the thriving market scene (Caloundra Street Fair, Caloundra Twilight Markets and Currimundi Lake Twilight Markets)

See you in Caloundra soon

HOLIDAY CENTRE

Discover the stunning Kimberley and the untouched wonders of the Gibb River Road with your fully guided adventure tour with Kimberley Safari Tours Our comfortable camping tours take you off the beaten track and on to the adventure of your life!

KIMBERLEY AND WA TOURS -

SMALL GROUP 4WD SPECIALISTS

Put on your hiking shoes, have your swimming gear handy and get ready for breathtaking Kimberley and WA scenery, endless gorges, and Aboriginal culture as you tour with Kimberley Safari Tours - the specialists in the Kimberley and Gibb River Road Tours. We have fantastic Broome to Broome Kimberley Tours and we also have Perth to Broome Tours via Karijini, and the magnificent WA coastline. Explore the best of Kimberley and WA with the experts. Kimberley Safari Tours is a family-based business passionate about our beautiful state and our rich culture and history.

Tour in small groups (typically 16-19 people) in modern, 4WD air-conditioned coaches, built for the tough Kimberley conditions. Journey with experienced guides ready to inform you at every corner. Comfortable camping (stand up tents, 70mm mattresses, pillows, comfy chairs with back / arm rests) with accommodation, park fees and most meals included. Travel to the spectacular and remote Mitchell Falls and the impressive and ancient Munurru Rock Art Sites (few operators go to the Mitchell Plateau). Visit the impressive Wolfe Creek Crater (few tour operators regularly visit this).

Experience WAs magnificent Ningaloo Reef and walk in the Gorges of Karijini on our Perth to Broome Tours. Enjoy camp oven meals, explore gorges, be refreshed swimming in plunge pools and waterfalls, and ponder over ancient rock art. Walks are carefully planned so they are achievable for active travelers of all ages. Defibrillators, First Aid trained staff, remote communication, and safety equipment for peace of mind. Join Kimberley Safari Tours, a family run business, for the adventure of a lifetime!

Kimberley Tours, 'Broome to Broome' depart May through to August

'Perth to Broome' departs May (combine with our Broome to Broome tours at a reduced price

Founded in 2014 Kimberley Safari Tours has a goal and desire to enable others who perhaps don’t have access to a 4WD and camping equipment, to experiences the Northwest of Western Australia in particularly the Kimberley and the Gibb River Road in a comfortable group setting. In October 2023 the business changed ownership to Glenn and Jaye Ursino who are committed to continuing to provide the great comfortable camping tours.

We are a small family business run by a husband a wife team. Each tour has a tour leader and tour guide/helper to assist the tour leader and guests. We intentionally keep our business at its current size so we don't lose the family touch.

Our

Mission

To share our love for the Kimberley through the provision of high quality small group comfortable camping tours, predominantly Kimberley Tours, at an affordable price for active travelers of all ages.

Our

Values

All people are created as equals and are treated with respect and honour. The land and its creatures have been created for humanity to care for and cherish. We only take photographs and create memories whilst leaving no trace of our presence. We value fun, culture and doing things well.

There are so many reasons to consider a Norfolk Island holiday. Situated a short two hour flight from Brisbane & Auckland and two and a half hours from Sydney, we are mid-way between Australia and New Zealand.

The beauty of the Island is renowned with its tall, majestic pines, high rising cliffs, green undulating valleys, lush rainforest and brilliant turquoise waters over coral reefs. So many arriving visitors are simply astounded by the beauty they find providing countless photographic opportunities. The island has long been a source of inspiration to painters and artists.

Our Home, Norfolk Island

Our little island is packed full of things to see and do. World Heritage listed Kingston will take you into the history of turbulent convict years and today’s vibrant Norfolk culture (born out of the infamous mutiny on the Bounty) all of which can be explored via tours, displays and even a chat with a friendly local. Encounter our pristine environment via swimming, reef snorkeling and rainforest walks. Our cafes and restaurants offer delicious, fresh, seasonal meals and local art, crafts, toys, shoes, and tax-free items are also among shopping highlights.

Many of our visitors experience a feeling of ‘coming home’ perhaps to a way of life they knew from years ago with a relaxed pace, a

Experience

Norfolk Island

Within a breathtakingly beautiful environment experience snorkelling in turquoise waters over coral reef, soaking up history in a World Heritage listed area and exploring a unique local culture.

Island History

From Polynesians, to convicts to the descendants of the Bounty mutineers, you’ll find museums, tours and spaces to just wander and soak up the stories.

sense of quiet, genuine friendliness, attention to life customs and community. On Norfolk there exists a safe place to gently ‘reconnect’ with yourself, loved ones or friends. At the same time this intriguing island has so much on offer that if you choose, you’ll be very well entertained – and busy!

Island Environment

Pristine, clean, green and abundant…

Whether you are in or on the water, a 4WD tour, a National Park walk or simply out and about, the beauty of our unspoilt environment surrounds you.

Island Food

Fresh, seasonal – and tasty!

Islanders have always lived off their home grown fresh, seasonal produce. Restaurants advertise today’s fishing catch, likely be served with vegetables harvested that day.

Norfolk Island Travel Centre

Play in Paradise : Norfolk Island

ANYTIME and Bring Your Group

ESSENTIALS: 7 NIGHT PACKAGES

✓ Return flights + Norfolk Airport transfers

✓ 7 nights twin share accommodation

✓ 7 days car hire per room

✓ Norfolk Island Orientation Tour + MORE

 bne from $ 1 , 979 * pp  syd from $ 2 , 049 * pp

‘Watawieh’

… Hello and how's it going?

A short flight from AU & NZ, Norfolk Island is ‘Paradise in the Pacific’ for lawn bowlers!

Renowned as one of the friendliest you’ll find, Norfolk Island Bowling Club's slogan is: “there are no strangers in this club, only friends you haven’t met”. With such a welcome, it's easy to see why bowlers of all skill levels are drawn to these tournaments.

Located in the heart of town, most things are 5-10 minutes away from the Club – including cafés, shops, accommodations and the airport! You could disembark, collect your bags, book in and be on the green within an hour of arrival! There’s no such thing as being 'stuck in traffic' on Norfolk, in fact the island has no traffic lights and only three roundabouts. It won't take you long to slip into ‘Norfolk mode’, which is ‘easy, easy, easy’. Even locking your car during play is treated by the local members as strictly optional!

Annual Norfolk Island Bowling Tournaments:

South Pacific Pairs: February 2025 – An open competition with mens, womens or mixed pairs.

 brisbane 15-22 feb 2025 • 7 nights from $2,009 pp

 sydney 14-23 feb 2025 • 9 nights from $2,299 pp

Christian-Bailey Agencies – Bounty Bowls: May 2025 The Bowling Club’s longest standing signature fours event.

 brisbane 3-10 may 2025 • 7 nights from $2,149 pp

 sydney 2-11 may 2025 • 9 nights from $2,369 pp

NIO Classic Triples: August – Contest with mens or womens teams and a minimum of five qualifying rounds.

Travel ANYTIME of year. Whether you're in a group, or flying solo and looking to join a local team, you'll find plenty of play and socialising on and off the green!

Book today with Norfolk Island Travel Centre! Email or call us to receive a detailed Info-Pack: groups@nitravelcentre.com • 1800 1400 66

DAVID BECKHAM was recently unveiled as an ambassador to the “King’s Foundation’’ which, could potentially boost his likelihood of receiving a knighthood ?

“I’ve

always been keen to help young people to expand their horizons and I’m particularly looking forward to supporting the “King’s Foundation’’ and “education programs’’ and its efforts to ensure young people have greater access to nature.’’

DAVID BECKHAM

Former international footballer David Beckham has been hailed as one of the greatest and most recognisable footballers of his generation. David, primarily known as one of the best midfielders of all time, as well as one of the best free-kick takers in the industry.

Beckham has won 19 major trophies in his career, he is the first English player to win league titles in four different countries, which include England, Spain, the United States and France.

David is considered to be a global ambassador of football and a British cultural icon. In 2013 David was listed as the highest-paid player in the world having earned over $50 million in the previous 12 months. He was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame in 2008, and the Premier League Hall of Fame in 2021. In 2003 he was honoured with an OBE by Queen Elizabeth II and has been a UNICEF ambassador since 2005.

EARLY LIFE

David Robert Joseph Beckham was born in London in 1975. He is the son of Sandra and David (Ted) Beckham, who were fanatical Manchester United supporters. According to David’s biography “Both feet on the ground’’ he was given his middle name “Robert’’ in honour of Bobby Charlton, his father’s favourite footballer. David inherited his parents love of football and Manchester United.

CAREER

Beckham attended one of Bobby Charton’s Soccer Schools in Manchester as a youngster, and won the chance to take part in a training session with Barcelona, as part of a talent competition. David’s professional club career began with Manchester United, where he made his first-team debut in 1992 at age 17. After signing with Manchester United as a trainee, Beckham became part of a group of young players who helped the club win the FA Youth Club in 1992. Manchester United Manager Sir Alex Ferguson had a great deal of confidence in the club’s young players (known as Fergie’s Fledgings) which included Beckham.

CULTURAL ICON

By 1996 Beckham’s star was rising and he subsequently established himself as a household name in Britain. In August of that year, David attracted global attention when he scored a goal from the halfway line. The following year, Manchester United successfully defended it’s league title and Beckham was voted “Young Player of the year.’’ While playing for Manchester United, David won the Premier League title 6 times, the FA Cup twice and in 1999 won the UEFA Champions League. Also, in 1996 at the age of 21, David’s International career started to gain momentum. He captained the English team for 6 years, earning 58 caps during his tenure. He made 115 appearances in total, appearing at 3 FIFA World Cups. David then went on to play four seasons with Real Madrid winning the La Liga championship in his final season with the club. Beckham joined LA Galaxy in 2007, which was

recognised as a transformational moment for football. Beckham’s 5 year contract was said to be worth an eye-watering $250 million.

David retired from professional football in 2013. He was 38 years old. By the time he retired, he had amassed a staggering $800 million fortune, making him one of the highest paid athletes of his time.

POSH SPICE

David started dating Victoria Adams in 1997, after she attended a Manchester United match. Victoria was famously known as “Posh Spice’’ of the pop group SPICE GIRLS. David and Victoria were married in 1999. Shortly after their wedding, the Beckhams bought a country house set in 24 acres in Herfordshire, which the media nicknamed “Beckingham Palace.’’ Beckham’s marriage to former Spice Girl, Victoria has contributed to his celebrity status beyond the football field. The couple are sought after by clothing designers, fashion magazines and cosmetic manufacturers. Their combined incomes primarily stem from lucrative endorsement deals with renowned brands which include Armani, Gillette, Pepsi and Adidas.

Bowling&Lifestyle Magazine recently had the immense fortune of catching-up with the much loved stage manager John (Robbo) Robertson. John, was Operations Manager for The Adelaide Festival Centre Trust and a Director of Cameron Mackintosh’s company (CMPL) and Executive Producer for his Australian productions. We were lucky enough to take a nostalgic trip down memory lane with him, as we reminsced about his extraordinary career...

Q & A with John (Robbo)

Robertson.

B&L : Congratulations John, on your astounding and distinguished career thus far. You embarked on your remarkable theatre journey in 1956, won numerous awards and garnered recognition for your contribution to excellence in Australian performing arts. You also occupy a unique place in Australian theatre history, and have been credited with being instrumental in bringing the excitement back into theatre.

How do you feel about your numerous achievements and was there ever any reluctance in the early days when pursuing this awe-inspiring career in the entertainment industry ?

B&L : Were you an ambitious child ?

JOHN : I’m lucky to have had such an interesting career in the theatre………. I think, looking back, I was never ambitious. I had not really decided on a career path up to the time I left school.

B&L : How old were you when you first entertained the notion of a showbiz career and why did you choose a “behind the scenes role’’ and not a performer ?

JOHN : I was 19 and in National Service with the RAAF. I had had a short period as a Trainee Auditor based in Geelong prior to that and I think it was that job that told me that it was not for me.

B&L : Can you tell us about your theatre journey and what prompted you to leave the safe environment of accountancy, and what motivated you to try your luck in the uncertain world of theatre and show business?

JOHN : My decision to ditch the accounting world (to the shock of my father I think) and a shock to me too. I had no idea of what I might do, but went to Melbourne and did the rounds of the theatre companies initially enquiring about jobs in their administrative departments thinking that my six months in accounting might be of interest. I even auditioned for a play which was planned for the Princess Theatre…….but having no acting experience meant there was no luck in that facet of show business for me.

B&L : Was there a certain Icon in the showbiz world that you admired that inspired you ?

Who were the icons of the theatre world at the time ?

JOHN : When I first started in 1956, the icon of the business then was JC Williamson Theatres – the top theatre and concert promoter in the southern hemisphere. This company was the premier producer of Opera, Musicals and plays together with special concert events over its 100 year history – 1876 – 1976.

Of course there were also so many artists who visited the country under their banner. but one of the most important was the landmark Opera company in 1965……..the Sutherland Williamson Operas company – with Joan Sutherland and Luciano Pavarotti.

B&L : In 1977 you joined THE ADELAIDE FESTIVAL CENTRE TRUST as Production Manager. Was this a major turning point in your career or had your career already gained momentum ?

JOHN : At this time JCW (JC Williamson theatres) had closed down and the AFCT (Adelaide Festival Centre Trust) approached me to return to the complex as Operations Manager, covering a number of areas in the Centre. It was the beginning of an era of major production which in a way sort of replaced JCW as a production house for other producers in Australia.

B&L : How did your family react to your decision, were they supportive of your commitment to the theatre ?

JOHN : My mother and father never resisted but maybe after an expensive education they may have hoped for a better prospect – but my father would have been concerned as he had been thinking that I could have continued in

the family accounting company in Camperdown. When I was learning stage management at the Tivoli in 1957 with Katherine Dunham’s company, my parents were in Sydney and came to the closing performance. The company was going on tour. Miss Dunham dragged me onstage at the end of the show and assured my parents that I would be well looked after by her and the company!

B&L : Did you have a plan B in place, if your show business aspirations failed ?

JOHN : No none !

B&L :You were Director and Executive Producer of The Australian production of English juggernauts CATS, LES MISERABLES, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA and MISS SAIGON. What do you remember about this epic time in your life ? Did you find this time exciting or stressful ? Did you get nervous on opening night or were you confident that the shows would succeed ?

JOHN : These mega musicals were produced here in Australia by Cameron Mackintosh. There was always a combination of excitement and stress involved ………. There is always a risk……. financially. It is always part of the focus in setting prices, controlling expenditure and marketing…….. all of these shows had a track record of success from overseas and of course that goodwill carried on here in Australia.

The success of the original production of The Phantom of the Opera here has yet to be surpassed in terms of the run – 1990 -1998.

B&L : Looking Back now and with the advantage of hindsight, do you have any perpetual anguish relating to your career, and would you approach situations in a different manner, if you had the chance again?

JOHN : No, I don’t have any anguish at all. There are always situations and events that one might have been handled differently in hindsight but dwelling on them does not change the outcome.

B&L : Over the years you have met some incredible people, is there one individual that created a lasting impression ?

JOHN : Yes, of course I’ve met some remarkable people over the years. Some were performers, some were dancers, some were producers…..if I named one it would have to be Cameron Mackintosh……. Who changed the theatrical landscape in Australia after the demise of JCW.

B&L : Can you name a highlight in your career that virtually changed your life and career ?

JOHN : The first was joining the AFCT in Adelaide. The second was joining Cameron Mackintosh as a Director of the Australian company and Executive Producer.

B&L : You are the recipient of numerous awards, including the prestigious JAMES CASSIUS WILLIAMSON Award which recognised your long theatrical career in 2003. Plus, you were also awarded the (ORDER OF AUSTRALIA MEDAL) for service to the performing arts as a producer and mentor, in the 2014 AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS.

JOHN : I was also honoured with the Sydney Theatre Critics Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023.

B&L :How did you feel about the honours and being revered by your peers at the time? Was this a celebratory time for you which culminated into a major highlight of your career ?

JOHN : I was thrilled and honoured to be the recipient of these awards……it has been the culmination of a long and wonderful theatre career.

B&L : What advice would you give youngsters who are hoping to get into showbiz ?

JOHN : Things are very different today compared to when I first started. A passion for the industry in whatever area is of interest…………Patience and endurance. It is a tough industry!

B&L : What are you working on at the moment and what is next on the agenda for John Robertson ?

JOHN : Next for me ………. I have retired of course, but still keep an interest in theatre in Sydney.

John (Robbo) Robertson’s interview courtesy of Catherine Colusso

PLAY OR RELAX

Mermaid Beach accommodation – Tucked among swaying palms and landscaped gardens, Montana Palms offers a number of fully self-contained, self-serviced apartments featuring two bedrooms and two bathrooms plus air conditioning, laundry facilities and free Wi-Fi. External onsite amenities include an extra-large swimming pool, spa and barbecue facilities, and when it’s time to explore, you’ll find the beautiful beach and a host of renowned cafes only a short, flat stroll away.

Excellent apartment with everything you need. There is secure onsite undercover parking with a fantastic pool and spa onsite and only a 2 minute walk to the beach and shops. Only about 15 minutes’ walk to the big Pacific Fair shopping mall and short walking distance to plenty of good restaurants around the place. Just across the street is a mini golf place called (Putt Putt) which was a great family fun. I will recommend 100% Montana Palms for your family stay destination.

DhirajBhartu

We could not fault anything, the swimming pool and bbq facilities And landscapes were very well maintained, and Steve and Julie were always courtesy professional and friendly. We would certainly recommend this resort to holidaymakers or residents. We will certainly be back David6611

Sydney, Australia

GOLD COAST

THE DEMISE OF CONCORDE

THE CONSTRUCTION.

The supersonic Concorde was jointly developed and manufactured by France and The United Kingdom under an Anglo-French treaty. Twenty aircrafts were built. Unfortunately, Air France and British Airways were the only two airlines that purchased the aircraft, largely due to the economic factor.

Concorde commenced service in 1976 with Air France and British Airways. However, was only used by wealthy passengers who could afford the aircraft’s expensive luxury service. Concorde’s supersonic flights more than halved travel times and flew five miles above and 800 mph faster than the subsonic 747’s. However, the supersonic noise from the aircraft over the ground limited it to transoceanic flights only, which restricted flight availability and limited it’s service.

CONSPIRACY THEORIES

Over the years there have been many conspiracy theories relating to, “as to why Concorde is no longer operating.’’ Many people believe that Concorde’s engine failure and the horrific crash that followed in the year 2000, accelerated the retirement of the supersonic aircraft in 2003.

The crash which killed 109 people on board and 4 people on the ground was the first fatal crash of a Concorde in 24 years.

According to the official explanation from both the French and the UK governments relating to Concorde’s demise, was “it’s high operating costs and unsustainability.’’ Additionally, the cost and consumption of fuel played a major part in the success of Concorde, which in the end proved to be hugely problematic.

However, a French government investigation into the crash later determined that the Concorde ran over a strip of metal on the runway, causing a tire to blow out. A large fragment of rubber then struck a fuel tank on the underside of the wing causing irretrievable damage to the plane. This caused engine failure and loss of altitude, resulting in a catastrophic tragedy and the unfortunate loss of 113 lives. The metal strip on the runway was identified as a jet engine part that had fallen from a Continental Airlines “DC 10’’ moments before the Concorde’s take off.

An American aviation mechanic was found guilty of “involuntary manslaughter “ of the 113 victims that lost their lives in the disaster.

As many people grow disillusioned with traditional GP consultations, the search for alternative therapies becomes more pressing.

Conventional medicine often addresses symptoms rather than the root causes of health conditions and can come with unwanted side effects. This is why more people are turning to natural alternatives. At Vasse Valley, we understand the increasing interest in natural, holistic solutions to health challenges. Our deep knowledge of terpenes and hemp seedbased health benefits allows us to offer products that promote wellness in a natural way.

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including hemp, that have various health benefits. For example, Beta-Caryophyllene, a terpene commonly found in black pepper, cinnamon and cloves, is a powerful antiinflammatory. These natural compounds can help manage chronic discomfort, stress, sleep disturbances, and enhance concentration. Certainly there are many other benefits not yet discovered, but preliminary scientific research has also demonstrated anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties as well as promising results with cancer cells and degeneration of brain cells. Our hemp-based products harness the power of terpenes to target these benefits, supporting a healthier lifestyle.

In addition to their beneficial qualities, terpenes are also a more affordable alternative to medical cannabis and CBD oil. While medical cannabis and CBD oil can be effective, they often come with higher costs due to regulatory and production expenses. Terpenes, on the other hand, offer

similar therapeutic effects at a fraction of the price, making them an accessible option for those seeking natural remedies without the financial burden. Again we mention BetaCaryophyllene. This amazing terpene is very similar in structure to CBD and has been shown to activate the same receptors in our bodies. It has thus been dubbed the ‘dietary cannabinoid’!

Vasse Valley is a small, family farming business operating out of the pristine Margaret River region in Western Australia. We pride ourselves on providing high-quality, eco-friendly products that contribute to a healthier lifestyle. Our commitment to innovation with hemp ensures that you receive the best natural solutions to improve your quality of life.

Join us at Vasse Valley as we continue to explore the potential of hemp and offer products designed to enhance your wellbeing naturally. For more information or to learn more about our products, please visit us at www.vassevalley.com.au

All Bowling and Lifestyle readers receive 10% off their first online purchase. Simply use the code BowlingLife10 at checkout. If you are not comfortable ordering online, simply speak to one of our friendly team by calling 0468 456 755.

The

parallels between Wallis Simpson and Meghan Markle are astonishing. Both ladies have reshaped Royal history by marrying into the British Royal Family causing widespread controversy, scandal and resentment across the globe.

In 1936 a constitutional crisis in the British Empire arose when King Edward VIII chose passion over protocol and announced his intention to marry Wallis Simpson. Wallis, was an American socialite who was divorced from her first husband and in the process of divorcing her second. Unfortunately, the marriage was opposed by the British government. As the British monarch, Edward was head of the Church of England, which at the time did not allow divorcee’s to remarry in church. As a twice-divorced woman, Wallis Simpson was perceived as unsuitable as a prospective queen consort. She was regarded by many in the British Empire as a calculating social climber of “voluminous ambition,’’ who was pursuing the King because of his wealth and position. Despite the opposition, King Edward declared that he loved Simpson and intended to marry her as soon as her second divorce was finalised. Their marriage caused monumental damage to the monarchy, which shocked the world and resulted in the abdication of King Edward VIII.

On the 10th December 1936, Edward signed the “Instrument of Abdication’’ in the presence of his three surviving brothers, the Dukes of York, Gloucester and Kent.

The next day (11th December 1936) Edward announced in a radio broadcast “I have found it impossible to carry the heavy burden of responsibility, and to discharge my duties as King as I would wish to do, without the help and support of the

woman I love.’’

After abdicating, the former monarch was made “Duke of Windsor by his brother and successor, George VI. Edward and Wallis married in 1937.

Wallis became formally known as The Duchess of Windsor upon their marriage.

After their marriage, which was held in Paris, Edward and Wallis were exiled to the Bahamas, by then English Prime Minister Winston Churchill, with the blessing of the Royal Family. According to Royal Historians, the exiled couple were ordered to take up Governorship of the island, because it was out of the way and a place where they could do little damage.

However, Edward’s arrogance and the couple’s pro-Nazi admiration caused problems during and after World War II. During this time, The Royal Family were aware of their contemptuous Nazi sympathies and feared they were communicating with the enemy. However, the extent of their betrayal could never be fully verified due to the secrecy of the Royal Archives.

In 1952 the couple bought a historic villa in Paris, which was formally owned by the city of Paris. Historians believe that after the scandalous abdication, Edward and Wallis remained far from happy with their inadequate and flawed life in exile. The couple remained in the villa until their death. The Duke, a heavy smoker died in 1972 of throat cancer. The Duchess, died in 1986 from bronchial pneumonia. Edward and Wallis are both buried in the Royal Burial Ground near Windsor Castle.

During her time with the former Monarch, Wallis Simpson was precocious enough to recognize exactly what Edward wanted and she obligingly delivered.

S

Is Meghan Markle The Modern Day Equivalent Of Wallis Simpson ?

Meghan Markle and Wallis Simpson, both American divorcees from humble beginnings, possessed a stifling desire to lift their social status by marrying a rich English Aristocrat.

Fast forward to 2018, Britain was overjoyed when the most popular member of the Royal Family, Prince Harry finally found his perfect match. However, many in Royal circles had reservations about the suitability of the union. Unfortunately, many could not help but notice the similarities between the two American ladies who reshaped British Royal history.

Both Wallis and Meghan were American divorcees, who met their respective husbands at the age of 34. Both respective husbands were

3rd in line to the British throne at birth, and both ladies were accused of being opportunistic social climbers with a dubious past history, who used their husbands to lift their own social and financial status.

According to Royal experts, Wallis Simpson’s desire to be Queen drove her to pursue Edward VIII relentlessly. At the time, she was globally perceived as a calculating opportunist and an unsuitable prospect as a Queen Consort.

However, she managed to claim the title of “Duchess’’ by marrying Edward VIII which resulted in Edward VIII abdicating in 1936. Unfortunately, her desire to lift her social status and lead a privileged Royal lifestyle backfired. After the abdication, Edward and Wallis were effectively exiled abroad. The exiled couple then chose to live in France. On the surface, their lives appeared rich and romantic, however according to Royal experts, their lives “post abdication’’ were fraught with unhappiness, deception and financial despair.

American bi-racial former actress MEGHAN MARKLE married Prince Harry in 2018 and inherited the title of The Duchess of Sussex.

It is believed the late Queen Elizabeth II was delighted with the prospect of having Meghan’s bi-racial identity included in the Royal Family. However, it did not take long for the Royal fairy tale to implode. The couple announced in January 2020 their intention to step down as senior members of

the Royal Family to pursue a financially independent life in America. Unfortunately, it later transpired that Meghan was fundamentally hostile towards the Royal Family and accused a senior member of the Royal Family of making racist remarks in reference to (the colour of baby Archie’s skin) She also accused The Royal Family of turning their backs on her while she was experiencing mental health issues. The couple have since delivered an avalanche of criticism directed at the Royal Family, initially taking part in a tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey and conducting several interviews with major networks, where they savagely criticised the Royal Family. Harry then released a tell-all memoir detailing what life was like behind Palace Walls. Many believe, the couple’s frustration was a result of constant media intrusion and Buckingham Palace’s refusal to allow them to develop their “SussexRoyal’’ brand. However, and unsurprisingly, many believe their revengeful tactics were a desperate attempt to stay relevant.

Unfortunately, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle now risk the prospect of fading “into obscurity’’ like Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson………

STORY COURTESY OF CATHERINE COLUSSO

“Making group tours personal”

Australian owned and operated; Duty Nobly Done Battle Tours will take you to the First World War battlefields for a personalised experience.

Offering highly experienced Australian authors, historians and guides; the team will take you on an unforgettable journey. You may have an Anzac relative you want to honour, or you love Australian military history and want to see the battlefields for yourself.

After decades of walking and researching the battlefields, Adam Holloway came to the realisation that the memorials and cemeteries can only tell part of your family’s personal Anzac story. Adam’s dedicated research and design has helped create a tour, where he will bring your own Anzac family stories to life.

You will walk the actual ground where your Great-Grandfather or Great-Uncle was wounded in action, honoured for courage or perhaps, made the ultimate sacrifice.

Adam personally hosts two exclusive 10-day tours each year, departing April and September.

With a maximum of 22 guests in each tour, seats are filling quickly for 2025 and 2026. See our website for tour details.

Adam’s Great-Grandfather was a competitive lawn-bowler from the age of 13 (1908) and ended his days as the green-keeper at Sandgate Bowls Club, where his brother was President. Their brother and eight Holloway

cousins were all Anzacs and the subjects of Adam’s first book, Duty Nobly Done (2018). The book was selected by the Australian Army’s Royal Military College (RMC-A) for their Professional Military Education (PME) ‘Reading List’ (2020-2021).

You’ll find what you’re looking for with Duty Nobly Done Battle Tours.

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