Book early as seats are limited
Gold Coast / Tweed Gold Coast’s First Podiatry Fungal Nail Laser Clinic Registered Podiatrists Safe with No side-effects No anesthesia required
SUNSHINE EXPRESS RAIL TOURS
Clinically proven results
PO BOX 119, TOOWONG 4066
Phone: 3252 1759
Newspaper
Fax: 3252 1767
Australian Railway Historical Society Queensland Division ABN 74 009 767 579
Your Award Winning Seniors’ Newspaper - Written for Seniors by Seniors Vol 15 - Issue No. 4
MAY 2015
1300 880 265
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
FREE
Groovin’ with Zumba at Magnolia
AT Magnolia Aged Care Living there’s no sitting around waiting for the Grim Reaper. In fact if he turned up at this lively facility he’d probably cast aside his scythe and get down and boogie with the residents. Magnolia Aged Care Living has discovered Zumba, the latest dance-themed aerobic exercise craze. Instructor Shantelle knows this activity is great at keeping folk young at heart with supple bodies and lots of energy and quickly has them on their feet joining in.
Lest we forget
With its lively atmosphere, lots of colour and a wide variety of music, it’s just the thing to have residents up on their feet having the time of their lives. Showing their skills at Jazz, Latin American, Swing, Calypso, Salsa, Cha Cha and Rock ‘n’ Roll, everyone is soon in the groove. There’s so much fun, in fact, some of the Lodge residents pop along to join in the fun too Tut oh dear!T. Sorry, Grim Reaper, no customers here!
Gold Coast/Tweed
community news Calling senior surfies
Newspaper IN THIS ISSUE Health ............................ Page 28 Gardening ..................... Page 30 Postcards ....................... Page 31 Entertainment ................ Page 39 Classifieds ..................... Page 41 Crossword ..................... Page 42 All Advertising, Editorial & Distribution enquiries:
1300 880 265 07 5474 0447 Email: advertising@seniorsnewspaper.com.au editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au 2 / 12 Project Avenue, Noosaville Qld 4566
Subscriptions Please call our Circulation Services on 1300 361 604 and quote Gold Coast/Tweed Seniors Newspaper. Only $36.30 for 1 year (11 Editions) subscription - includes GST & postage anywhere in Australia.
Now Online
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au Published monthly and distributed FREE across the Sunshine Coast Also publishers of • Sunshine Coast Seniors Newspaper • Brisbane Seniors Newspaper • Toowoomba & Darling Downs Seniors Newspaper Published by ARM Specialist Media Pty Ltd (ABN 73064061794) Printed by APN Print, Yandina Opinions expressed by contributors to Seniors Newspaper are not necessarily those of the editor or the owner/publisher and publication of advertisements implies no endorsement by the owner/publisher.
Page 2 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
(L to R) Stuart Ashton, Mark Jameson, Tony Cousins, Tony Brown and Tony Bartram
by Colleen Povall IF you’re between 30 and 65 and over and still love to hit the lip on your short board, head off to Cabarita for the weekend of 16th-17th May. Once again the popular Tweed Coast Masters Surfing Event is being held at Cabarita Headland and Norries Headland at Cabarita Beach. It comes around every 5 years and is tremendously popular, attracting 60 to 70 entries. Not surprising, as it is a wonderful social event with lots of giveaways and prizes to be won. You don’t need to brave those long Malibu boards – it’s all manageable shorties. Fathers and Children can enter in their own special competition,
so if you have a surfie son or gidget daughter, give them a call to head on down to Cabarita that weekend – you could win something special! Been a long time since you surfed? No worries, there’s a special kneelo event. Worried about that hip/ knee/shoulder replacement? Sign up for the Medical Mishaps competition. The organisers have thought of everything, including lots of snacks and refreshments available. It will cost $60 to enter and for more information and an entry form, please contact Paul Ricketts on 0432 322 708 or email paul.ricketts@hotmail.com Cut-off date for entries is Wednesday, 13th May and Paul warns there will be no entries accepted at the beach on the big day, so get going!
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
community news Helensvale Probus Club TOM Green was to be President Brian’s first induction, whom he welcomed aboard with morning tea enjoyed and appreciated. David Mitchell introduced guest speaker Alan Fortunato, Director of the Southport RSL, who in turn gave an inspiring account of the importance and meaning of ANZAC Day and what it represents not only to so many families but Australia as a country, even today 100 years hence, ‘Lest we Forget’. As promised, the year is off to a great start, commencing with a wonderful combined outing with the Northern Rivers Probus clubs, visiting the Historic Newstead House. Morning tea was
Members enjoying the garden and views
enjoyed and appreciated at Logan by the river, getting the day off to a great start. On arrival at the Historic home members were in for a
treat, the viewing of the various rooms taking members back into the past and how it was but also to appreciate the fine dining and furniture
of yester year, including the bathing facilities. This was followed by lunch at the Cheebung RSL where we were fed and watered with wonderful staff at the ready, before returning home after a wonderful outing of friendship and sightseeing. The outing was an outstanding success, thanks to all who were responsible for the morning tea, safe travel and our special organisers for such a wonderful day. Our next meeting is May 8th at the Seniors Citizens Hall, Discovery Drive, Helensvale. Meetings commence at 10am, visitors most welcome. For more information contact, President Brian on 5580 1206 and Marie on 5573 0401.
Need to put a little zing into your group? ONE of the great things about retiring is that you now have lots of time for fun pursuits and volunteering for favourite causes. In fact many retirees complain jokingly that they’ve become so busy, they need to find a job to give them free time again! Maybe you belong to an organisation and feel the general community could benefit from finding out how good it is. Bring in some new blood, or maybe you’ve just had a terrific function or outing and want to brag about it. If you volunteer at something worthwhile, the organisation would probably appreciate a little plug from you. One great way to gain some publicity is to send your story and photos to your Seniors Newspaper. We love hearing from you! It doesn’t have to be a long screed (about 150 words is ideal). You can email us at editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au or post it off to Editor, Seniors Newspaper, Shop 2/12 Project Avenue, Noosaville Qld 4565. So come on! Let’s hear all about what you’ve been up to.
Lend a caring hand to our beaches this May CITY of Gold Coast and the Griffith Centre for Coastal Management are calling on the community to lend a caring hand as part of the May BeachCare program. Volunteers will be planting native dune plants, removing weeds and picking up beach litter at five different locations across the city. Mayor Tom Tate said the initiative was funded by the City and delivered by the Griffith Centre for Coastal Management. “So far this financial year, more than 600 volunteers have clocked 2000 hours, planted almost 1700 native dunes plants, removed over six tonnes of weeds and 1.5 tonnes of rubbish,” he said. “We know the valuable contribution this initiative makes to our coastline, which is why the City invests more than $110,000 into the BeachCare program each year. “This is a great example of how we are bringing research, coastal management and the community together as part of our broader Ocean Beaches Strategy.” BeachCare Coordinator Tegan Croft said with
DAY TOURS XMAS IN JULY ................................. 1 Jul QLD GARDEN EXPO .................... 11 Jul
EXTENDED TOURS LONGREACH .................... 30 May – 7 Jun DAY DREAM IS .......................... 3 – 9 Aug CARNIVAL OF FLOWERS ........ 20-22 Sep MELB CUP @ NOOSA ................. 2-4 Nov THREDBO XMAS ..................... 21 -30 Dec XMAS @ COFFS HARBOUR .... 24-27 Dec
THEATRE TOURS OUTBACK SPECTACULAR ...... 31 May 15 ANYTHING GOES ...................... 25 Aug15 STRICTLY BALLROOM ............ 23 Sep 15 FREE OFFER for Community groups Our experienced tour planner is happy to work with your tour organiser or committee. Take advantage of our years of experience to make your group travel hassle free and more enjoyable. We can offer 33, 53 or 63 seat coaches to cater for all size groups Please contact Patricia for a brochure or to make a booking.
Sunset Tours Ph: 07 55 716 719 I Fax 07 56 096 019 Email: info@sunsettours.com.au
PO Box 620, Biggera Waters, Qld 4216 www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
BeachCare groups extending from Paradise Point to Rainbow Bay, there were plenty of opportunities for people to take part. “With the leadership of BeachCare facilitators, you’ll learn interesting facts about the coast and how our beaches are managed,” she said. “This is a fantastic free, fun and family-friendly activity that will leave you with a real sense of making a difference to our beautiful city. “All equipment is provided, so come along in your enclosed shoes, a hat and sunscreen.” To participate in BeachCare, see council’s web page or go to griffith.edu.au/coastal-management. BeachCare May 2015 When: Saturday 16th 9am - 11am. Where: Palm Beach (beach end of Lacey’s Lane) When: Saturday 16th 1:30pm - 3:30pm.Where: Broadbeach (beach end of Australia Ave) When: Saturday 23rd 9am - 11am. Where: Surfers Paradise (beach end of Aubrey Street) When: Saturday 30th 9am - 11am. Where: Bilinga (beach end of Sea Street)
Stay safe when withdrawing cash ON the Gold Coast recently, would-be thieves have been hanging around ATMs while the elderly and women, in particular, were withdrawing money. Another problem can be ‘ATM skimming’. This happens when offenders install skimming devices on the ATM to record data from the card’s magnetic strip and to record the person entering their PIN number with a pin-hole camera (often a mobile phone). The stolen information is later encoded onto blank EFTPOS cards and can be used at ATMs to withdraw funds using the customer’s PIN. Offenders have also been known to hold onto stolen account information for several months before accessing skimmed accounts elsewhere in the world. It is much safer to withdraw cash at one of the major supermarkets – you don’t even have to be making a purchase, and it won’t cost you anything. At any time when you are out and about it is wise to be
aware of your surroundings. Remember the following tips: If you carry a purse or bag, hold it close to your body, tucked under your arm. Always have a firm hold of your handbag or purse, don’t leave it on shop counters or on the seat beside you on the bus or train. Never leave your handbag in the shopping trolley. Never carry large sums of money. Use EFTPOS or credit cards wherever possible. Use a supermarket or an ATM inside a shopping centre, not external ATMs. Don’t carry signed withdrawal forms with your bank book.
BUYING ANTIQUES & Old China • Jewellery
(Any Condition)
PRE 1970
OLD WARES
• BUYING NOW - CASH PAID!
ALL GOLD • OLD PAINTINGS • STERLING SILVER • COINS • WAR ITEMS China / Silver Tea Sets, , Royal Doulton, Shelley, Lamps, Old Books, Dolls, All Native Artifacts Perfume Bottles, Wrist Watches, Clocks, Pens, Postcards, ALL ANTIQUES & OLD ITEMS
All Coins, Sovereigns, Bank Notes, War Medals, Badges, Swords, Bayonets etc Experienced Cash Buyer - Gary Condon - Est. 1970 - ‘We call personally to all areas’
COLLECTOR SALES - Ph Caroline on 5577 5111 or 0418 769 799 May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 3
community news Retirees will hold Government to Account THE Gold Coast President of the Association of Independent Retirees (A.I.R.) Rob Grover warns of a retiree backlash to the continuing attack on their
entitlements and retirement plans. “The 1.6 million Australians over 65 years of age who have partly or fully funded their long standing retire-
ment plans are under attack. Two decades ago the Government of the day established compulsory superannuation contributions with the prom-
HOMES UNDER
330,000
$
ise that the future retirement income of Australians was guaranteed and would reduce dependency upon Government to provide age pensions. This was endorsed by all sides of politics and was held up as a model for the rest of the developed world,” Mr Grover said. “Workers willingly participated in providing for their future at a time when marginal tax rates were higher than those that currently apply. How misleading this has been. Successive Governments encouraged Australians to provide for their future under these arrangements only to now find the politics of greed and envy are attacking their entitlements and future retirement lifestyle. “Misleading and headline grab-
bing statements have unfairly branded self-funded retirees as rich and created the impression that all superannuants are riding on the back of unsustainable entitlements. This is far from reality.” According to Mr Grover, a suggested annual income of $58,000 per couple is necessary to maintain a comfortable lifestyle in retirement. To sustain a comfortable lifestyle for today’s retirees, a superannuation account balance per couple would need to be between $800,000 and $1M allowing for longevity issues. Are these people now the ‘nouveau rich’? “Less than 0.5% of superannuants have greater than $2.5M superannuation account balances. Yes - there are as-
Would you agree? THE only 15-letter word that can be spelled without repeating a letter is uncopyrightable. Facetious and abstemious contain all the vowels in the correct order, as does arsenious, meaning ‘containing
arsenic’. ‘Stewardesses’ is the longest English word that is typed with only the left hand. The word ‘checkmate’ in chess comes from the Persian phrase ‘Shah Met’ which means ‘the king is dead’. Telly Savalas and Louis Armstrong died on their birthdays. Emus and kangaroos cannot walk backwards easily and are on the Australian Coat of Arms for that reason. Cats have over one hundred vocal sounds while dogs only have about ten. The reason firehouses have circular stairways comes from the days of yore when the engines were pulled by horses. The horses were stabled on the ground floor and figured out how to walk up straight staircases.
pects of the current regulations that may favour those that are unquestionably rich. Regulations that allow excessive contributions to superannuation in the accumulation phase as an estate planning tool and the withdrawal of large tax free lump sums from superannuation funds in the drawdown phase do need to be finetuned,” he said. “So where does this leave the 1.6 million average Australian self-funded retirees and those about to retire? They are disillusioned and uncertain
about their future but equally determined to hold Governments to account. The threatened piecemeal adjustment of the age pension taper rates and imposition of a bank deposits tax will further fuel the resentment entrenched within today’s retirees.” Mr Grover called on the Government to develop and implement a comprehensive and broadly applied solution to ensure a sustainable Australian national economy. For further information, contact Rob Grover on 0417 732 242.
Trivia with Allan Blackburn 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.
Residents of Birmingham, England, are known by what nickname? Artist Edgar Degas was famous for his paintings of what subject? How old is a nonagenarian? In humans, where are the pinnae? What nationality was Hugh Victor McKay, inventor of the Sunshine Harvester? In chess, how many different kinds of pieces does each player start with? The lower house of parliament of what country is known as the Duma? The term “blog” is short for what? Complete the title of Irving Berlin’s song, “There’s no business like…” In which Australian city is the National Portrait Gallery? Native to Central Australia, what kind of living thing is a parakeelya? What talent does a polyglot person have? Who starred as Mr Bean in the British comedy show? Where is the Dewey Decimal System usually used? Where on the body is a brassard usually worn? Who replaced Adam Hills as the host of TV’s Spicks and Specks? What is one eighth expressed as a decimal? What surname is shared by Australia’s sixth Prime Minister and an English explorer? Which planet of our Solar System is the hottest? In which city is the tennis arena Roland Garros? Answers on page 8
Page 4 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
community news Gold Coast and Hinterland Historical Society
THE picturesque grounds of the Gold Coast and Hinterland Historical Society’s Museum in Elliott Street, Surfers Paradise, were the setting for the recent official opening of the influential former Gold Coast Mayor Sir Bruce Small’s photographic display. This superb personal collection covering his life’s journey were donated by his granddaughter Dr Anne Small and includes aerial photos of the various canal developments for which he was famous resulting as they did in the tremendous expansion of the Gold Coast from 1958 onwards. Sir Bruce was a very popular Mayor and an avid promoter of the Gold Coast, travelling within Australia and to New Zealand, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Japan and Singapore with a group of Meter Maids in tow. The exhibition at the
PODIATRISTS
GOLD COAST’S TRUSTED FOOTCARE CLINIC
June Redman of the Gold Coast and Hinterland Historical Society with Dr Anne Small
Museum is attracting great interest, together with the Museum’s other items of interest including Aboriginal artefacts, the replica cottage of the early pioneers, equipment from the Southport cable station, Vincent Sheldon’s artist’s studio, farm equipment and ma-
chinery and plenty more for everyone to enjoy. The Museum is open every Sunday from 10am to 3pm. Entry is $5, children 10 and under are free. The photographic exhibition will be on display at the Museum until October. Further enquiries to John on 0417 662 321.
• Bulk Billing Medicare Bulk Billing EPC • DVA Provider/Senior Medicare Program Discounts • Customised Orthotics • Heel Pain • Chris Matthews • Luke Kelly • Ingrowing Toenails • Steve Hollands • Melita Budd • Corn - Callous • Suzie Watterson • Medical Sterilised Instruments • Diabetic Care Emerald Lakes Village Shop 17, The Boulevard CARRARA
Robina Shopping Village 195 Ron Penhaligon Way, ROBINA
PH: 5562 5055
Australian Taxation Office tax refund online! SCAMwatch is warning us to be on the lookout for an email purporting to be from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) trying to trick consumers into providing their private details. The ATO has received numerous complaints about an email, which usually includes the words ‘Tax refund’ in the subject heading and the following text: ‘General information about e-tax, including the demonstration, benefits of using e-tax, computer and eligibility requirements, and security.’ There may be other variations to the subject and text. These emails go to great lengths to convince re-
cipients that it is genuine—they even contain a replica of the ATO’s logo and a link to what appears to be the ATO website. Consumers are asked to provide details such as their name, email details, date of birth, address and banking details in order to search for any tax refunds. The email may also direct consumers to a bogus Taxation Office website and asks for personal information and credit card details. If you receive this type of email, SCAMwatch advises you NOT to click on any links provided and to delete the email immediately. If you have provided personal or bank details via this link, contact your fi-
PH: 5562 5055
www.yourbodyandfeet.com.au
• Gold Coast’s First Podiatry Fungal Nail Laser Clinic • Specialised Nail preparation by Registered Podiatrists • Safe with No side-effects • No anesthesia required • Clinically proven results • Private Health Rebates
nancial institution immediately. SCAMwatch stresses that the ATO, Centrelink, banks and financial institutions will never send emails requesting verification of personal details for any reason, including tax returns.
Ask for Dr Mark Taylor ... Dr Taylor is one of only 10 dentists in Australia who was admitted to Griffith University’s Master of Clinical Implants program when it was pioneered. His expertise in dental implant placement and restoration has been honed over 15 years in London and Australia. Gentle, caring, professional and friendly, Dr Taylor will help you discover the latest dental implant solutions best suited to your needs and budget.
CALL NOW
Your exclusive offer Free Dental Implant Consultation
Call 07 5591 2661
(Limited to implant consults only)
www.taylordentalimplants.com.au
or book online at
Level 1, Australia Fair West Shopping Centre Cnr Scarborough & Young Streets Southport QLD 4215 P 07 5591 2661 I W www.taylordentalimplants.com.au
Dr Mark Taylor BDS (London), M Clin Dent (Queensland)
Advanced dental Implant treatments at one of the most competitive prices on the Gold Coast
Advertisement
Bumpers will look like new
WE’VE all done it before, got a little too wide when pulling into the car park, reversed into the hubby’s trailer and hugged the garage walls a little too closely. There is nothing more embarrassing than driving around in a scratched car but most of the time it’s not bad enough to pay high premiums on insurance or panel beaters to have fixed. Not to mention having to
live without your car for a day or two while it is getting fixed, it is inconvenient and frustrating. Fortunately, a business has noticed this gap in the market or car repairs and has provided a service that is convenient, professional and fast. BumperTech will come to where your vehicle is parked and repair scrapes, scratches and those unsightly damaged bumpers and minor panel damage. Forget searching high and low for matching touch-up paint, BumperTech uses a Dupont mini paint system that matches the colours. BumperTech is a cost effective repair service when compared to an insurance claim. “Research shows a well presented car brings maximum price and speedy sale,” John Cowan, BumperTech representative said. A five year warranty is given with every job. For an obligation-free quote on BumperTech services phone 0412 241 014.
MOBILE SERVICE
www.bumpertech.com.au www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
PROBLEM
SOLVED
MOBILE PAINT & BUMPER REPAIRS, SCRAPES, SCRATCHES, AND MINOR PANEL REPAIRS
FREE QUOTES NO OBLIGATION
PH: PH: 0451 0414441 288014 144 May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 5
community news Protect yourself & your holiday with travel insurance for the over 50s THERE’S nothing more exciting than anticipating the enjoyment of an upcoming holiday. Whether you’re further familiarising yourself with the sights and sounds of Australia or venturing abroad, there’s no doubt that the prospect of new experiences and unknown marvels is a delightful one. In order to truly enjoy a carefree break, some planning
must be done in advance. There are passports, spending money and travel documents to account for, technological aids to fit into carry-on baggage, and of course decisions to be made over which clothing items to pack. Along with these details, there is one more significant thing to consider: travel insurance. Many people will return from a trip with funny sto-
ries about getting lost, language barriers and or other little things that went amiss. While most people encounter minor incidents, should things take a serious turn for the worse, it is important to have the financial support of travel insurance behind you. Imagine falling ill in a for-
eign country, losing your luggage, having your possessions stolen, or being subjected to delayed flights – these are all things which could ruin your holiday experience. Luckily, these are also situations where travel insurance can come to the rescue. And that’s where National Seniors
Insurance comes in. Specially designed for the over 50s with no age limit on acceptance, it can include cover for a range of pre-existing medical conditions. It also provides financial support for a range of incidents, including lost luggage, medical and dental expenses incurred overseas and the
provision of extra flights in the case of a delay or emergency. We’ve partnered with the experts at Cerberus Special Risks to bring you cover that is underwritten by certain underwriters at Lloyds and includes 24/7 emergency assistance and the highest levels of customer support and claims man-
agement. And, by purchasing insurance through us, you will also be supporting the advocacy work that we carry out on behalf of more than 200,000 members of National Seniors Australia nationwide. Contact us for a quote on 1300 50 50 99 or visit nationalseniors insurance.com.au.
Labrador Memorial Senior Citizens YOGA sessions are held on Monday at 8.15am and Wednesday at 8.30am. Both sessions go for an hour and a half. Indoor bowls is played Monday from 10am and Thursday from 12.30pm. New players are welcome to join in this fun and social activity. No prior experience necessary. We have 6 Table Tennis tables which are well used during our four afternoons of play on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. The ever popular 500, Canasta and Rummy are played on
Tuesday and Thursday. Hand and Foot (card game) is played on Monday afternoon, Tuesday morning and Thursday in the morning and afternoon. We have also started a Beginners 500 group who meet at the Centre on Wednesday afternoon from 12.15-3pm. and Foot played several times during the week, as wsell as Rummy. Rod Ferguson from the Australian Academy of Tai Chi takes our Wednesday morning class from 10.30am-11.30am. Our
MAYOR Tom Tate was joined by the GovernorGeneral, His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK
MC (Retd) in early April as they laid the first piece of the Gold Coast’s Commonwealth Walkway. The interactive walkway is an
skilled teachers are always available to help members when they require some assistance at our Craft, Art and China Painting classes held on Thursday from 9.00am. New enquiries are very welcome. The social Scrabble group meets every Monday and Thursday afternoon from 12.15pm. If you are interested in joining with any of the activities, please call the Centre. For members, a hairdresser is available on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Our library is also open during
the week, and our bus trip for members is once a month. Our weekly concert is on every Friday morning starting at 9.15am. The varied musical items and comedy skit is always very entertaining. Entry cost is $3.00 which includes tea/ coffee and biscuits. We have a social group for knitting and crochet that meet on Monday between 9.00am – 12.00pm. A very experienced knitter and crochet person is in the class if anyone needs any assistance. Please call the office if you would like to
join this group by phoning 5537 1433. We visited Bribie Island on our April bus trip. For some members it had been several years since they had last visited the island. We collected a tour guide courtesy of the Moreton Bay Regional Council who shared their extensive knowledge of the island and took us too many areas of interest, including the local Art gallery and Museum. Lunch was at the RSL club, a great place to relax and not too far from the Gold Coast.
Commonwealth Walkway unveiled at Southport
Servicing the Gold Coast since 2001
(07) 5539 2141 3/26 Central Park Ave, Ashmore, 4214
OPEN SATURDAYS 9am-11am
(Behind the Central Park Tavern) FONDLIGHT AIRLITE WHEELCHAIR
with FREE delivery & set-up on Gold Coast
• Full Electric Recline & Lift • Silent Low Voltage Motor • Single Motor • Steel/Timber Frame • Side Pocket for Books & Magazines • Weight Capacity 130kg
CTM HS360b • • • • • • •
Stable Compact Ideal for in retirement village 135kg capacity, 2 x 36 Ah Batteries Up to 32km range Max speed to 8kph
RRP - $1995
‘ATHENA’ RECLINE LIFT & CHAIR
initiative of Her Majesty The Queen, who has given permission for the creation of walkways in cities throughout the Commonwealth, marked with her personal Royal cipher. An embossed metal interpretation panel, similar to the ones outside Buckingham Palace and other London landmarks, marks the start of the walkway in Davenport Street, Southport. The panel illustrates the route, key points of interest and relevance to the Commonwealth. Cr Tate thanked the GovernorGeneral for laying the foundation panel. ‘It’s an honour to have the Governor-General visit the Gold Coast to mark the
start of this special initiative,’ he said. ‘The walkway will be completed in stages and, in time, I hope it becomes a local treasure. This is yet another important milestone for our city in the lead-up to the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games and will serve as an active legacy to the event.’ The 10-kilometre route starts at the City of Gold
Coast Southport Branch Office and finishes at the Gold Coast Cultural Precinct at Evandale. There will be up to 40 brass markers along the walkway at sites of interest while a smartphone app will provide information about the site’s significance. The walkway is expected to be officially opened before the April 2018 Games.
Burleigh North Combined Probus Club
BURLEIGH North Combined Probus Club invites visitors to join our friendly Club at 10am on the 2nd Wednesday of each month for our meeting, morning tea and a wide variety of interesting Guest Speakers. Social events are planned for 4th Wednesday of each month. For information phone Dawn on 07 5520 4650.
$995
WALKER HS148
Seniors & Carers get Discounts from 5% to10% off the Retail Price for all Daily Living Aids (Not included with any other offer - May only)
$1,395 ‘ATLAS’ (Dual motor, 170Kg Capacity)
And we offer so much more . . . • • • • •
Mobility Scooters Manual & Electric Wheelchairs Power Chairs Lift/Recline (Lounge) Chairs Walkers & Rollators
• Scooter/ Wheelchair Hoists & Ramps • Service & Repairs • Batteries & Tyres • Scooter & Wheelchair Hire
1 Central Drive, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220
GREAT NEWS! SCOOTERLAND MOBILITY Is now an Agent for
Phone: 5539 2147 GOLD COAST
Page 6 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
www.walkonwheels.com.au www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
COMPUTER HELP
community news Burleigh Waters Probus Club THE Probus of Burleigh Waters recent outing was a relaxing day at Schusters Park, Tallebudgera, where members enjoyed a tasty BBQ lunch by the serene Tallebudgera Creek. The Club invites retired or semi-retired men to meet with them on the 3rd Monday of each month at 10am in the Burleigh Waters Community Centre, 131Christine Ave. Burleigh Waters. Although we are a men’s club, wives/partners are welcome to attend all club meetings and outings and share in the great fellowship. We enjoy listening to interesting Guest Speakers each month and at our last meeting, Phil Latz told us of his travels and experiences as a helicopter pilot. Our next activity is an ‘Auto Adven-
• Problem Solving • Personalized 1 on 1 tuition • On your own computer, tablet or smart-phone • Windows, Android and Apple Operating Systems • Senior with many years teaching experience • Very reasonable $30 per hour rate
PHONE Gabriel on 0429 176 909 to make an appointment
Burleigh Waters Probus BBQ at Schusters Park, Keith Lewin and Bill Burton are the Cooks at the BBQ
ture’ (Observation Drive) which will conclude with a lunch at a Mystery destination. We have an outing on the 1st Monday
each month, in addition to our monthly meeting. For further details, please contact Brian on 5520 6332, Colin on 0427 272
829 or Chris on 5534 8556. For more information visit our website - Google “Probus Club of Burleigh Waters”
CareFlight QLD outback rescue services secured QUEENSLAND Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced a $56 million extension of CareFlight’s contract to provide doctors to transport sick patients in remote Queensland to major hospitals. The current CareFlight contract, due to expire in February 2016, will be extended a further three years to 2019. The Premier, who recently inspected drought-
TOENAIL CUTTING in your own Home Yes We Come to You! Professional foot care at an affordable price with the convenience of coming to you in the comfort of your own home. “Servicing Seniors for 15 years”
SENIORS SPECIAL FOR ONLY $25
The Toenail People 1300 885 972
declared areas of western Queensland, said the provision of experienced doctors was an essential service for people in the bush. “Last year alone, more than 4,000 sick people in outback Queensland were seen by CareFlight doctors. That’s more than 10 patients a day,” Ms Palaszczuk said. “People out west face a completely different set of circumstances to those in the city, and Queensland is such a large state that the distance to a hospital or even a doctor can be quite daunting.” Health Minister Cameron Dick said the three year extension of CareFlight’s contract with Queensland Health would provide more stability in the provision of state wide retrieval medicine services. “One of the big advantages of the CareFlight system is that they have their own doctors, whereas before this partnership existed 10 years ago, Emergency Medicine doctors were pulled from emergency rooms around the state to be flown out to major medical incidents,” Mr Dick said. “Under CareFlight, doctors are recruited and trained specifically to provide critical care via an aviation platform.” CareFlight provides world-leading retrieval medicine services and specialises in the recruitment, training and provision of front-line critical care doctors and medical support staff for air medical retrieval from nine locations across Queensland. They were one of several groups funded last year to provide medical evacuation services along the Queensland coast. But this announcement specifically allows for the employment of experienced doctors. CareFlight Retrieval Medicine Limited has had the state government contract to fly to remote areas to retrieve patients who require urgent care since 2004.
Featured Stockists (QLD) Tweed Mall Amcal Chempro Shop 59 Centro Tweed, Cnr. Wharf & Bay St Tweed Heads NSW 2485 Murphy’s Health Care Pharmacy 115 City Rd, Beenleigh QLD 4207 Terry White Chemists Nerang Shop 1/7 - 29 Cayuga St, Nerang QLD 4211 Runaway Bay Health Foods Shop 6 Runaway Bay Shopping Village Runaway Bay QLD 4216 Maclean Country Pharmacy Shop 3a/4664 Mt Lindesay Hwy Seek advice from your doctor if you suffer from these symptoms North Maclean QLD 4280 1 in 3 Australian men above 50 will suffer from an enlarged prostate Amcal Chempro Mermaid Waters Super Centre, Cnr Bermuda & Markeri St Magnus ShieldTM contains CernitinTM, the Swedish pollen extract proven in extensive ‘Q’ Mermaid Waters QLD 4218 clinical trials to support a healthy prostate and treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate. Giant Chemist Harbour Town Shop 2 Harbour Town Shopping Centre Corner of Brisbane Road & Oxley Dr “Thank you for sending out Magnus Shield. I really believe they have been a great benefit to me. Before Biggera Waters QLD 4216 Magnus Shield, I was going to the toilet 3 or 4 times a night, now using Magnus Shield I’ve been going Broadbeach Waters Pharmacy once a night, sometimes not at all” John W, Benalla, VIC – 18 Jan 2010 Shop 4, 110 Monaco St, Broadbeach Waters “I found these tablets Magnus Shield from a magazine. I found it helped me to empty my bladder at night QLD 4218 Terry White Chemists Australia Fair time and relieve the pain while passing water. It really works for me” Paul E, Ormond – 22 April 2008. Shop G143 Australia Fair Shopping Centre Southport QLD 4215 Giant Chemist Pacific Fair Ground Level Pacific Fair, Always read the label. If symptoms persist seek the advice of a healthcare practitioner. - Approval No. CHC36636-04/07 Broadbeach QLD 4218
Enlarged Prostate? Do you suffer from these symptoms?
• Frequent urination • Painful urination
• A weak stream • Constantly feeling that your bladder isn’t empty
Call 1300 760 627
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
Magnus ShieldTM Now Available Magnus Shield TM is available at good pharmacies and health food stores. Ask your pharmacist or call 1300 760 627 for more information, if our lines are busy please call again. AUST L: 123642 Visit magnusprime.com for clinical studies and information. For nearest stockists please call: 1300 760 627 May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 7
community news Quality Meals conveniently delivered to your doorstep HAVE you become immobile and housebound due to disability or injury, or, are you just sick and tired of grocery shopping and cooking and want to give yourself a bit of a break? Gourmet Meals provides the perfect solution through the delivery of wholesome, well balanced, nourishing and tasty meals right to your doorstep. The locally owned and operated
company, which opened its doors in 1993 and is based in Labrador on the Gold Coast, offers individually portioned meals in large and regular sizes, as well as soups and desserts, all at very competitive prices. The meals are mostly salt reduced, fat reduced, high in protein and fibre, and gluten free, and, as they are prepared by highly qualified chefs, they are of the finest qual-
ity and standard. There are also dairy free and meat free options. Nolene Wasniak, aged 85, was put onto Gourmet Meals by her Personal Carer, who realized that if her care patient was to remain living independently, she would have to ensure that she was able to get proper nutrition. Gourmet Meals are snap frozen meals which ensures all the freshness and goodness
is retained and no added preservatives are needed. They are easy to store in the freezer and simple to prepare in the microwave or oven. “The meals are so convenient”, says Nolene, “and taste wonderful, just like home cooking”. Gourmet Meals differentiates itself from other companies, not only with its great tasting meals, but also with its friendly personalized ser-
vice of home delivery combined with assistance in unpacking the order and putting the meals away for the customer upon request. Another point of difference is the fact that many of our meals are gluten free which is a healthier alternative for all of us, plus a welcome solution for Coeliacs who are gluten intolerant. There are no contracts, only a minimum
Ladies Probus Club of Miami THE Ladies Probus Club of Miami Inc wishes to invite ladies who would like to meet new people to join our club. If you enjoy listening to entertaining guest speakers, eating delicious morning teas & participating in social activities you will enjoy being a part of our club. We meet on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 10am, at the Broadbeach Bowls Club. Upcoming events to be held by our club are: Thursday 21st May, we are holding our club’s birthday lunch at the Palmer Colonial Golf
Course. Thursday 25th June, we are treating ourselves to the awesome morning teas produced by CreativiTea in the Oasis, Broadbeach. Thursday 14th May is a general meeting day with morning tea and a mystery speaker or entertainer. Thursday 11th June is June’s meeting day, where we’ll watch an Avon demonstration and enjoy our usual morning tea. More information about our club and these events can be obtained by phoning Aileen on 5575 8092 or Jean on 0488 715 951.
Tweed Valley Toastmasters Club CAT got your tongue? Your self-confidence need boosting? Join us on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays each month at 10am at Cudgen Leagues Club, 3 Wommin Bay Road Kingscliff. New members welcome. Contact on 02 6674 1636 or on the web at http://tweedvalleytoasmastersclubs.org/
Page 8 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
order of $47 for a delivery. For customers who mention the code word SENAD0 we offer a special incentive of a free meal
to the value of $6.50 (see our ad) with the minimum order requirement. This is a one per customer, one time offer only.
Trivia Answers from page 4 Answers: 1. Brummies 2. Dance, in particular ballet 3. Over 90 and less than 100 years 4. Visible part of the ears 5. Australian 6. Six 7. Russia 8. Web log 9. Show business 10. Canberra 11. Plant 12. Command of several languages 13. Rowan Atkinson 14. Libraries 15. Around the upper arm 16. Josh Earl 17. 0.125 18. Cook 19. Venus 20. Paris Disclaimer for Trivia quiz Answers are correct to the best knowledge of our quizmaster Allan Blackburn. Sometimes people may have different views and some answers considered correct by Allan may be considered incorrect by others. While all care and attention is taken with these answers, mistakes can happen. If you find one, please live with it! No correspondence will be entered into regarding Trivia Quiz answers.
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
community news Blue Care marks ANZAC Day RESIDENTS, staff and relatives at Blue Care Labrador Aged Care Facility knitted more than 1000 poppies as part of the nation-wide project to “plant” a massive handmade poppy field in Melbourne’s Federation Square recently. The 5000 Poppies project was a tribute to all Australian servicemen and women, commemorating 100 years since the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli. Service Manager Wannapa Foytong said for an expeResidents of Blue Care Labrador Aged Care Facility with their rienced knitter, a poppy ANZAC Day poppies takes about two hours to complete. “That’s more ting since October last “About a dozen people pies, ranging in skill from than 2000 hours of knit- year!” Wannapa said. had been making the pop- novice to experienced
Probus Club of Hastings Point Tweed Coast PROBUS Club of Hastings Point Tweed Coast meets next on Tuesday 19th May at 10am at the Tri Care Retirement Community, 87/89 Tweed Coast Road, Hastings Point, New members welcome. Enquires call Steve on 02 6676 4641 or go to http:// hastingsptprobus.org The speaker at this meeting will be the author Barbara Waters who will speak about her book “From There to Here” which was launched November 2014. The book is an account of a number of families who are tenants of North Coast Community Housing. Barbara lives in Murwillumbah.
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
Pension increase for Veterans VETERANS, their partners, war widows and widowers across Australia have seen an increase to their pensions as part of the bi-annual indexation process. As pension rates are calculated on a daily basis the first full payment at the new pension rates was made on 16 April. Deeming rates have also been adjusted. From 20 March 2015, the lower deeming rate has been reduced to 1.75%, while the higher deeming rate has been reduced to 3.25%. The reduced deeming rates mean that income support pensioners with financial assets such as cash, shares and bank accounts will have less income included in their assessment and may therefore receive a higher rate of pension. Pensions are indexed twice a year in March and September. A full list of pension rates are available on www.dva.gov.au or by calling 133 254 or 1800 555 254 from regional Australia.
knitter. “Residents, staff and visitors have all been knitting away – it’s a colourful focus point at our facility. “We started
out aiming for 100 poppies by ANZAC Day, but now we’re past the 1000 mark. “Our staff work hard to maintain connections
with the community, and this project has brought us together to respect the people who fought for our country.”
Mobile Legal Service We will Come to You
• At Home • Hospital Visits • Coffee Shop Do you have an up-to-date Will? Who will look after your affairs when you can’t? Have you taken steps to protect your assets? If your answers concern you, we can help you do something about it NOW
Don’t put off to tomorrow what can be done today. Tomorrow may be too late!
SPECIALIST LAWYER – WILLS & ESTATES Call Tracey Smith Accredited Specialist (Succession Law)
on (07) 5554 5487 today so you won’t have to worry about tomorrow! www.smithlegal.com.au
May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 9
community news Great Deals and Special Events for Seniors at BCC and Event Cinemas! FOR the month of May, BCC and Event Cinemas will host two exciting special events as part of the Cine Buzz for Seniors program. The first will be on Wednesday 13th May at 10am featuring complimentary morning tea and film event at 10.30am. Something for everyone in the special advanced screening, A ROYAL NIGHT OUT. Which tells
the story of the adventures on V.E Day in 1945, where Princess Margaret and her sister Princess Elizabeth were allowed out from Buckingham Palace for the night, where they encounter romance and danger. The next exciting event will round out a great month of movies on Wednesday 27th May at another special Cine Buzz
for Seniors event and Morning Tea with the screening of the spectacular WOMAN IN GOLD. The story of Maria Altmann, an octogenarian Jewish refugee, who takes on the government to recover artwork she believes rightfully belongs to her family. Starring Helen Mirrin and Ryan
Reynolds. Complimentary Morning Tea starting at 10am with the film showing at 10.30am. Both special events are just $8* for Cine Buzz for Seniors Members. BCC Cinemas at Australia Fair and Coolangatta, and Event Cinemas at Robina host regular screenings for Cine Buzz for Seniors members that consist of a
• Record the duration of the seizure and whether it started in a particular body part ( eg a twitching eye ) before escalating. Record when the pet last ate and what. Was the pet inside or outside prior to the event? Was the pet stressed or excited prior to the seizure? • If a seizure lasts longer then 3 minutes, cool your pet with cool ( not cold) water applied to the ears, belly and feet and seek veterinary attention. • If your pet has 2 or more seizures in a 24 hour period, veterinary attention is required. • Should your pet’s seizure last less than 3 minutes with apparent complete recovery, contact your vet
$299
Page 10 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
This is just one of the great benefits of the Cine Buzz for Seniors club at BCC and Event Cinemas. The club is free to join for anyone over 60 and allows members to receive $8* tickets to movies every day and also allows members to earn points towards free movies, free breakfasts with eligible stays at Rydges Hotels
and resorts and discount tours at Sydney State Theatre. Seniors can sign up online or join at their local BCC or Event Cinema. Tickets for A ROYAL NIGHT OUT and WOMAN IN GOLD special events are on sale at the box office or online at www.eventcinemas.com.au *+$1.20 online booking fee applies.
First aid for seizures / convulsions in your pet A SEIZURE is any sudden and uncontrolled movement of the animal’s body caused by abnormal brain activity. Seizures can be severe affecting the whole body or very mild affecting only a single body part eg. a leg. The pet may appear not to be conscious or responsive and may urinate or defaecate during the event. What to do • Prevent your pet from injuring itself during or after a seizure. Be conscious of falls from heights and make sure they are well away from water. • Keep other pets away from the patient as some will become temporarily aggressive following a seizure.
$3900
screening of a new release or pre-release film that will appeal to the dynamic and discerning seniors market and also host a complimentary morning tea with a selection of treats and a tea or coffee. All providing the perfect opportunity for members to catch up with friends and enjoy a quality film.
to determine if a consultation is required. • If your pet losses consciousness and stops breathing, start immediate CPR and seek veterinary attention asap. What not to do • Never place your hands in the pet’s mouth during a seizure. They do not
swallow their tongues and are likely to clamp down unintentionally on your fingers. • Do not attempt to slap, startle or shock your pet out of a seizure. Allow it to run it’s course, dim the lighting if possible and speak to your pet in a quiet, calm voice. Slow,
calming strokes ( well away from the mouth) may also help. Hopefully you will never be in the distressing position of watching your pet suffer a seizure. However, should the situation arise, I hope these tips assist you in dealing with a potential crisis.
Computer Lessons at only $4 per lesson “AS a not-for-profit organization we can offer computer lessons for as little as $4 a visit, meaning over 50 year olds can now stay up to date with technology on the Gold Coast.” Ted Wilkes, President. Gold Coast Seniors OntheNet is a computer club for seniors (over 50 years) who are interested in learning about computers and how to use them and associated equipment, for computing, communications and entertainment. We are a voluntary organization so there is no paid staff. The very small charge for lessons covers the cost of the rooms, equipment and photocopying of lesson hand-outs. We offer regular instruction on most aspects of Windowsbased computing, e-mail messaging, and a wide range of computer programs including word processing, Computers For Beginners, Microsoft Windows 7, 8.1, Microsoft Excel, iPad, Tablets, Android, Digital Cameras, Laptop Computers, Smart phones, Facebook. Skype, Outlook.com, Hotmail, Internet Explorer, Microsoft Publisher, Media Centre, CD Burning, DVD Burning, Greeting Cards, Paint Shop Pro, on line buying and selling, Printers, Using CDs, DVDs, Memory sticks, Picasa, Windows Movie Maker, You Tube Downloading. Please check us out by typing in your browser ‘Gold Coast Seniors OntheNet’ for much more information on our courses and Membership. We have 7 computers in our tutorial rooms, all connected to the Internet and pupils can enjoy either group classes or oneto-one lessons with our
volunteer tutors. Members can learn at their own pace, there is no pressure to keep up or catch up with others. Members are welcome to bring their own laptops. Gold Coast Seniors OntheNet provides a forum, a learning place and a social circle. You can improve your quality of life in a changing world, you can communicate with your children and grandchildren at home and abroad, by email and photographs, you can learn about other countries, plan your travel itineraries, the possibilities are endless. Applica-
tion Forms can be found on our website, click on Membership in the index. Come and join us and have some fun while you make new friends! Learn about the wonderful and exciting world of computers. Our rooms are located at Suite 3, Gold Coast City Council Chambers, 47 Nerang Street, Southport, Queensland 4215 ( Entrance in Davenport Street ). Don’t delay, phone today. Office hours are 9am-4pm, Monday to Thursday. Phone 07 5591 5766 or email sotnadmin@ futureweb.com.au
Mobile Massage
MEGAN THACKERAY MASSAGE THERAPIST BEd (Phys Ed) Dip RM, Dip Lymphatic Drainage
Whether you need some remedial muscle work, a detox treatment or just want a relaxing massage at the end of the day or week, I provide a mobile therapy so you can continue to relax in your home after the treatment. • Remedial Massage • Deep Tissue Massage • Lymphatic Drainage • Myofascial Release Therapy • Swedish Relaxation Massage • Trigger Point Therapy • Mobile Massage Service
0407 410 447 Health Fund Rebates www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
community news StepUP offers a ‘fair go’ to Seniors on the Gold Coast
Join Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea this May and help beat cancer
WHEN it comes to beating cancer, we all PENSIONERS on the Gold Coast are able to access have what it takes to fair and reasonable credit through StepUP Loans, a help. You can make a low interest personal loan. StepUP is designed difference this May by specifically for people living on low incomes and hosting a biggest enables people to purchase necessary household morning tea and supporting the 1 in 2 goods and services. The loans have a low interest Australians who will be rate, are for amounts between $800 and $3000 and diagnosed with cancer are available for the purpose of medical and dental by age 85. Getting expenses, home modification and maintenance, involved is easy. second hand cars, car repairs, furniture and Simply get together whitegoods. StepUP is a community initiative with your friends, between National Australia Bank and Good family or workmates, Shepherd Microfinance which aims to provide a put the kettle on and safe credit alternative. The loans are supplied on a not for profit basis and are part of National Austra- make your cuppa count. Register at lia Bank’s commitment to ensuring that all Austrawww.biggest lians have access to fair banking services. To be morningtea.com.au or eligible, applicants must hold a Centrelink Health call 1300 65 65 85 and Care Card or Pension Card or be in receipt of Family help support Cancer Tax Benefit A. They also must have lived at their Council’s vital work. current address for more than three months. If you You’ll receive a free are interested in applying please contact Jessica host kit packed with Allen from the St Vincent De Paul Society on 07 55 fundraising ideas, party 145 306. tips, mouthwatering recipes from celebrity chefs and everything you need to get started. Everyone has a different reason to host TWO practical manuals launched recently will help a morning tea. Cancer
New fact sheets empower older workers
older people find jobs or change careers, consumer lobby for the over 50s, National Seniors Australia says. The fact sheets - on career planning, and on learning, education and training - set out tips on how to make the right decisions for financial and personal well-being. Building on the Age Management Toolkit launched in February by Treasurer Joe Hockey, the career planning information is aimed at helping job seekers assess areas such as their current work, their skills, options and developing a career plan. The learning, education and training information sets out the steps they need to take in finding the job they want, the study they may need to undertake and the tax deductions they may be eligible for. “Contemplating a career change or being out of work and over 50 is tough enough without also being unsure of what to do to improve the situation,” National Seniors chief executive Michael O’Neill said. “These information sets we’ve launched today will help older workers make informed decisions on their career paths, updating their skills and gaining the confidence they need to find a new job, change careers, start a business or get a pay rise,” O’Neill said. “The Age Management Toolkit launched in February was aimed squarely at employers recruiting and retaining older workers. “The information we have now launched is really for the workers themselves - but it’s not just for over 50s. Younger people can also benefit from the general tips on how to get and keep the job they want.” The fact sheets are available online at nationalseniors.com.au/be-informed/fact-sheets. Courtesy: National Seniors
needed them the most.” She encourages everyone to get involved. “Everyone has been touched by cancer in some way or another. So even if personally you haven’t gone through it, you would know somebody near Colin Street and a timber bridge who has,” she said. across Blacks Drain. The Colin Street In 2014, Australia’s
survivor Natalie Khoury hosted her first morning tea for Cancer Council last year after finishing treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma. She found the experi-
ence incredibly rewarding. “I hosted a Biggest Morning Tea because I wanted to give back to the community that supported me when I
New walking trail planned THE Tweed Shire Council is proposing to build a rail trail for pedestrians and cyclists from the Murwillumbah railway station to Tweed Regional Gallery. This section is estimated to cost about $1 million. It is hoped the majority of this funding would come from State or Federal Government grants. The 2.6km trail will provide a valuable link between the gallery and central Murwillumbah, while offering a safe and scenic option for commuting and exercise for walkers, cyclists and people using other non-motorised forms of transport. The trail will be a pilot for a Northern Rivers Rail Trail along the full length of the disused Casino to Murwillumbah railway corridor. This rail line was opened in 1894, a singletrack, standard-gauge railway line spanning 130km through the four local governments of Byron, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed. It originally had 24 stations and passes through a number of regional centres including Lismore, Bangalow, Byron Bay, Mullumbimby and Murwillumbah. There are two rail bridges between the Murwillumbah railway station and Tweed Regional Gallery, a steel one
Bridge is in good condition and can be used. Rails and sleepers will be removed and a precast concrete deck placed over the steel girders. The timber bridge is significantly decayed so will be replaced with a low-level bypass including a small bridge. Signage and line marking will be installed at the two road and driveway crossings at Colin Street and Blacks Drain to ensure the safety of trail users and motorists. Contaminated land issues are being considered as part of a review of environmental factors process being performed for the pilot rail trail project. Council’s environmental scientists have conducted preliminary investigations into this issue, including acquiring contamination reports from the Rail Authority, and have concluded that the risk of contamination is low and can be easily managed through appropriate construction methods and work practices. Adjacent landowners have been, and will continue to be, consulted as part of the project and concerns will be assessed on a case-bycase basis as part of the design.
Biggest Morning Tea raised a tasty $11.9million which helped fund life-saving cancer research, prevention programs and much needed support for cancer patients and their families. This year, Cancer Council aims to raise $13million to help fund its life-changing work. Every morning tea matters, so whether it’s a coffee catch-up with the girls or a morning tea with neighbours, you’ll make a big difference to the lives of thousands of Australians affected by cancer each year. The official date for Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea is Thursday May 28th but you can host a morning tea anytime throughout May or June. Make time for what matters and register today. Visit www.biggest morningtea.com.au or call 1300 65 65 85 to receive your free morning tea host kit.
All Partial Dentures
$150 OFF including one tooth, partial dentures! Claim your private dental benefit before the end of this financial year
2013 2014
2014
Mention this ad to receive a
FREE
A minimum order of $47 is required. A delivery fee of $7 applies per delivery. Prices include 10% GST & may be subject to change without notice. Delivery day depends on the suburb the customer resides in. For more details on delivery days call or visit the website.
MEAL TO THE VALUE OF $6.50* CODE: SENAD* one per customer
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 11
community news Means-testing the family home could boost pension incomes, says think tank INCLUDING the family home in the pension assets test could be a political ‘plus’ if handled properly, a report by profree enterprise think tank, the Independent Studies Centre, suggests. Calculations by the centre reckons assetstesting the family home and encouraging retirees to borrow against it in order to get the pension could boost typical pension incomes by about $6000 a year while slashing the pension bill by $14.5 billion. “It could be popular if it’s explained carefully,” says Matthew Taylor, one of the authors of the report. “Pensioners would have to overcome their emotional attachment to their homes; they would need to see that they are not just places to live, but untapped assets.” At $42 billion this year, the
Southport & District Orchid Society Inc.
ORCHID SHOW Saturday 6th June 9am - 5pm Sunday 7th June 9am - 3pm • Judged Show • Potting Demonstrations • Commercial Traders For information: Show Coordinator Peter Nickl 0403 181 544 Albert Waterways Community Centre (opp. Pacific Fair) Cnr Hooker Blvd & Sunshine Blvd Mermaid Waters
Pre-loved Homes start from
$255,000 to
$295,000
Page 12 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
age pension is the largest single payment made by the federal government, exceeded only by combined grants to state governments. Annual expenditure is predicted to rise to nearly $50 billion by 2017-18. The cost of assistance to the aged has risen by more than 50% in the decade to 2013-14, outstripping real GDP growth, while the cost of the age pension alone has increased by 35% in real terms between 2007-08 and 2014-15. In part, the growth in pension expenditure has been driven by the fact that most people of retirement age (80%) receive some form of pension. The plan by the studies centre would treat family homes the same as any other asset for the purpose of the test. Non-
home owners with assets would no longer get lower pensions than homeowners whose assets were tied up in their houses. The government would create strict rules governing the use of reverse mortgages and then encourage retirees to use them by ‘deeming’ income from borrowing against their homes and using it to cut their access to the pension. The mortgages would allow retirees to borrow up to 80% of their home’s value with set fees and a government guarantee that they would not be forced out of their home. The government already runs one such scheme – the pension loans scheme – but it is restricted to nonpensioners wanting to borrow up to the limit of the pension and is little used. A simpler means
test would cut the pension by 60c of each extra dollar earned or deemed to be earned rather than the present 50c. The centre believes the changes would force 70%of full pensioners on to the part-pension and between 24% (singles) and 32% (couples) off the part-pension altogether. They would also allow small increases in the full pension to the Association of Superannuation Funds ‘modest but adequate’ standards of $23,469 a year for singles and $33,766 for couples. The standards allow nearly $19 a week for “cinema, plays, sport and day trips”, $25 a week for “lunches and dinners out” and $36.97 a week for “domestic vacations”. Matthew Taylor said the biggest
obstacle might prove to be convincing retirees that they should use much of the value of their homes rather than pass them on. “It’s noble to want to pass on homes, but completely exempting them from the assets test means homes worth half a million dollars or much more get passed on by retirees who are effectively using taxpayers’ money to preserve the asset,” he said. Growing life spans meant an increasing number of children had little use for inherited homes, often receiving them in their fifties when they had children of their own. “It would need a cultural change, and the government would have to build a case, but it would make the pension sustainable,” Mr Taylor said.
Healthy care for the elderly - at home IF you have an elderly parent, chances are you have spent more than one sleepless night worrying about their future. When faced with the daunting task of elder-care giving, many don’t know where to begin sorting through all the daunting options available. But in fact, the answer may as simple as letting mum and dad stay put – helping them age comfortably, and gracefully, at home. Home care is not always the best solution for every elder-care situation, particularly if the home environment is unsafe or if your parent requires a very intensive medical needs. But one Australian care provider has a refreshing approach – less intrusive aged care, which involves keeping the elderly healthy, independent, productive and engaged socially. “More and more people have the choice to remain at home, rather than visit a hospital or residential facility,” says Kthryn Bondoc, NSW operations manager at KinCare Home Care Services. The service offers in-home support for wellbeing, personal and home care, social connections, health treatments, rehabilitation, assisted daily living, nursing and allied health services and transport.
The services are available short term or long term, including periods of recovery from surgery or injury. “KinCare and its referring healthcare professionals, such as hospitals and community doctors, nurses and specialists, work with you to support you in your choice to live at home and live as independently as possible,” Ms Bondoc said. “There is a KinCare solution for everyone through our directory,” she said. Visit www.kincare.com.au or contact KinCare on 1300 733 510 for services on the Gold Coast and throughout Queensland.
Broadbeach Ladies Probus Club Inc. BROADBEACH Ladies Probus Club meet on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at Kurrawa Surf Club, Broadbeach. The meeting commences at 9.30am, morning tea is provided free of charge, then followed by a guest speaker. Visitors and prospective members are most welcome. Come along and join us, or phone Patricia on 5575 5284 or Christa on 5575 5045 for more information. www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
community news Banora Point Probus Club
Easter Bonnet Fun Day IT was Easter Bonnets galore at the Easter Fun Day at the Never Alone Friendship Centre. Each year the volunteers and guests all join in the fun to see who can come up with the most colourful and original bonnet. This year the morning saw the results of some busy days making bonnets and hoping to win the prizes for the best ones. As well as a parade of bonnets, the guests were entertained by Bill Alexander and his wife Robyn with a great array of songs, jokes and some sing along. Hot cross buns and special Easter Cup Cakes were the order of the day. The group meets each Wednesday at the Uniting Church Hall on the hill at Burleigh Heads and those who drop in are assured of a great morning’s fun and entertainment. All of this for a $2 donation. Morning tea, indoor bowls, card making and a variety of table and card games go to make an enjoyable morning for those who may be alone, isolated or without any social activities. Outings, guest speakers and entertainers assure everyone of a great time. More information can be obtained by calling Neville or Dulcie on 5562 2993. The Never Alone program is an outreach program of the Burleigh Heads Uniting Church.
BANORA Point Probus Club meets on the 4th Monday of the month at 9.45am for 10.15am in the South Tweed Sports Club. A friendly mixed club for retirees. Visitors are welcome at the meetings and social outings. Guest Speaker for May is Kim Pilic with seeingeye dog Richard from Vision Australia. The talk will be about changes in eyesight as we get older, and the workings of the seeing-eye dogs. Ph Bae on 07 5590 9738 or Google our website ‘Banora Point Probus’
TOTAL FOOT & HAND CARE PACKAGE
Pictured are 1st, 2nd & 3rd winners in the bonnet competition with their prizes.
Age discrimination is still an issue OVER a quarter of older Australians have experienced some form of age discrimination according to national survey results released in April by Treasurer Joe Hockey and Age and Disability Discrimination Commis-
sioner, Susan Ryan. The National Prevalence Survey of Age Discrimination in the Workplace revealed the extent of discrimination faced by Australians aged 50 years and over. Treasure Joe Hockey said there needs to be a na-
WANTED Coins Banknotes Medals Tokens Gold & Silver Jewellery
Top Prices Paid Confidentiality assured Family Owned In Business over 30 years
We come to you and pay Cash! Phone Geoff Yates
(07) 5535 5894 or 0412 11 32 11
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
tional conversation about age discrimination in the workforce. “You have to identify the barriers for entry to work for older Australians,” Mr Hockey said. “You’ve got to help us to identify the impediments for them to remain in the workforce. “Age discrimination is as reprehensible as racial discrimination, as religious discrimination.” The survey found that 27 per cent of Australians aged 50 years and over had experienced some form of age discrimination in the last two years. Of those who experienced age discrimination, 80 per cent reported negative impacts. Commissioner Ryan said, “Age discrimination is most commonly experienced when older people are out of a job and looking for paid work rather than while they are in a job or running a business”. “Nearly three in five (58 per cent) of those who were out of a job and seeking paid work were a target of age discrimina-
tion.” The survey found that the groups most vulnerable to experiencing age discrimination were typically people who were in a lower income bracket or in a single parent household. Commissioner Ryan said the economic case for addressing age discrimination was “overwhelming”. “It is urgent that we act to break down workplace cultures of age discrimination so older people are not only retained but also hired,” Commissioner Ryan said. “With average life expectancies approaching 100 years in the foreseeable future, we need to realise that if people leave the workforce in their 50s due to discrimination, negative attitudes and the absence of pathways to retrain, they may have additional 40 or more years of life without paid work. “I hope this research will be the catalyst for business leaders and policy makers to tackle age discrimination in the
• Total Foot Care - Cut & file nails, reduce dry skin and any minor callus or corns, plus a very relaxing foot and lower leg massage Cost for this complete service is $30 (Specialising in Seniors Care) • Total Hand Care - Cut, shape & file nails and be relaxed with a hand and lower arm massage. Cost for this complete service is $25. • Traditional Pedicure - cut, shape & file nails, moisturise & massage plus paint $40 Indulge in both for the Fantastic Price of $50
workforce and liberate the economic potential of older Australians.” The survey is available online at: humanrights.gov.au/ our-work/age-discrimination/publications/.
KERRI’S Mobile Foot & Hand Care Call: 07 5546 2537 or 0429 700 881 Have confidence in knowing that I am Insured, Registered and Qualified (Cert.IV in Allied Health Assistance HLT42507). Plus 10 years experience in the field.
May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 13
community news Shares: don’t over-expose yourself in a market boom SENIOR Australians tempted to risk their retirement savings in a booming share market are warned to be careful about overexposing themselves. As savings account interest rates sink below 3%, company dividends are paying 4-5% – plus tax benefits and strong recent capital growth – and financial experts have noticed a rise in older people heading into shares. Their move has contributed to the 15% rise in share prices since mid-December, led by big gains from income-paying stocks such as Telstra and the major banks, reports News Ltd. However, for some people the extra risk may not be worth the extra return; no companies are immune from falling financial markets. During the GFC financial crisis
Don’t jump in . . . retirees should take care before investing in the share market
Australia’s biggest bank, the Commonwealth, more than halved in value, although it has almost quadrupled its share price in the six years since. Investment analysts suggests low interest rates on bank deposits could mean retir-
ees might find it challenging to generate “acceptable returns in the foreseeable future”. He said his firm had seen a number of people taking on extra risk, turning to shares and property assets – without thinking about what might
Why? Why? Why? EMAILS come with all sorts of messages but it’s always nice when they make the recipient laugh. Why? Why? Why? was originally an email but don’t be surprised if you are even treated to a belly laugh as you read Why? Why? Why? Why do people order double cheeseburgers, large fries, and a diet coke? Why do banks leave vault doors open and then chain the pens to the counters? Why do we leave cars worth thousands of dollars in our driveways and put our useless junk in the garage? Ever wonder why the sun lightens our hair but darkens our skin; why women can’t put on mascara with their mouths closed; why you don’t ever see the headline Psychic Wins Lottery? Or, why abbreviated is such a long word? Why is it that doctors and attorneys call what they do practice?
Why is lemon juice made with artificial flavouring and dishwashing liquid made with real lemons? Why is the person who invests all your money called a broker? Why is the time of day with the slowest traffic called rush hour? Why is there is no mouseflavoured cat food? Why didn’t Noah swat those two mosquitoes? Why is it that needles used for lethal injections are sterilised? And, you know that indestructible black box that is used on airplanes? Why don’t they make the whole plane out of that stuff? Why don’t sheep shrink when it rains? Why are apartments so called when they are all stuck together? Lastly, if flying is so safe why do they call the airport the terminal? Why? Why? Why?
Gold Coast Bridge Club GOLD Coast Bridge Club welcomes you to our friendly bridge club. Learn how to play bridge in 2 lessons! Yes, it’s true. This new teaching method has met with great success. Want to brush up your skills or learn new ones? Our experienced teachers provide tuition and coaching at all levels. We conduct regular bridge sessions 6 days and 2 evenings each week and
Page 14 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
hold classes at regular intervals. Like to have fun, love a challenge, want to create a new interest? Then bridge is for you. It’s one of the greatest card games in the world. Meet interesting friends from all walks of life and enjoy many of our social occasions when you join our club. Want more information? Phone Cecily or Lynley on 5538 3112 or 0418 984 856.
happen when interest rates ultimately rose or property tenants defaulted. “There’s a lot of property spruikers at the moment. Make sure you can trust the people you are giving your money to.” There are also con-
cerns that some selffunded retirees are looking to overseas markets, which carried currency exchange rate risk, without seeking expert help. The share market’s strong recent rise has prompted several analysts to warn stocks are overvalued at current prices, although most advisers say shares should form part of people’s investment portfolios because their growth and dividends guard against rising inflation. Shares, property trusts and infrastructure investments are among the growth assets that retirees could own, as long as they don’t overdo it. They understand term deposits and cash rates are going down so they need to look at alternate sources so the total return is at least beating inflation.
Solace Association Inc. SOLACE Association is an organisation for people grieving the Loss of a Partner. Our meetings are held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month at 10.30am, Broadbeach Senior Citizens Centre, TE Peters Drive, Broadbeach. For further information, please phone Betty on 5580 7034.
Swimwear Larger cup sizes Ladies 10-24
Specialist in Mastectomy Fitting • Fittings by Friendly Trained Staff • Bikinis • Separates • Maternity • Tummy Control • Mastectomy • Chlorine Resistant • Men’s & Children’s • Sun Protection in Sizes thru to 8XL • Full Coverage Head to Ankle Swimwear
489 Gold Coast Highway, (btw Fruit Market & Red Rooster)Tugun Qld 4224
info@luluswimwear.com.au
55 344 399
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
community news Arcare residents hand over Poppies
I’d never felt so helpless...
“FOR two days last June, I lay on the floor of my home of 42 years, in horrific pain, unable to pick myself up, unable to call for help, unable to feed myself, unable to make it to the bathroom, unable to determine just how injured I was. Not a single soul knew I was in trouble. I’d never felt so afraid. Never felt so ashamed and I’d never felt so helpless than I did during those 48 hours. I’d always prided myself on being able to take care of myself but I Mary Bray, Kath Dixon, Ian Mackay (husband of Pauline Mackay, travelling quickly realised just to Gallipoli) and Rita Petersons how vulnerable I was. Lucky for me, my story ARCARE Hope Island, a five star Arcare Hope Island and Pauline’s has a happy ending, I aged care residence on the Gold family thought it would be lovely to was thankfully found Coast, held a ceremony to officially send some of their Poppies with the and given the care I handover Poppies, crafted by the travellers to Gallipoli, which was needed. Knitting Group, to the family of a especially significant not only But the whole episode staff member who will be personally because of the ANZAC Centenary, was traumatising. I escorting the Poppies to Gallipoli. but because Rita’s father had served didn’t know during the The Knitting, Crochet and Craft in Gallipoli. 48 hours I was group originally set out to create Unfortunately Rita passed away prior stranded, that I was Poppies to commemorate ANZAC to the ceremony, but a Poppy will be going to be found in Day at the residence, but it was when taken to Gallipoli in her memory and two days. Environmental Staff Pauline was in to honour her father. Although I tried to keep conversation with Rita Rogers, a The Knitting Group would never a positive outlook, I member of the crafting group, that have imagined that their humble had considered the they found out Pauline’s daughter poppies would make such an possibility that I might and husband had won two tickets to extraordinary journey to such a never get up off that Gallipoli. significant destination. floor!
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
Afterwards I suffered from anxiety and panic attacks and didn’t like to be left alone. It put enormous strain on my family and we decided I should move to a nursing home”. This is a just one of the true stories that inspires EMS to find solutions to keep people in their homes SAFELY for longer. With the safeTcare model, our clients are monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year! The device is the latest technology and more importantly simple to use. Everyone deserves the freedom to take charge of their independence and stay in their own home for as long as they safely can. Words like Dignity, Integrity, Pride and Care spring to mind. Since the 1990’s we have provided solutions to both the security and Emergency Medical Alert Services. The security industry has many rules and regulations, the medical alert industry does not. Standards for this
industry must be created and as a company, we act accordingly, it is our goal to see this materialise. Paul Joseph, safeTcare Team Captain Government Licensed Security Advisor, Monitoring Specialist, phone (07) 5634 4047 or email paul.joseph@emsas.com.au
EDITORIAL DEADLINE Editorial copy is always welcome. Deadline for the June edition of Gold Coast/Tweed Seniors Newspaper is 27th May, 2015
Do you want to know how to store your vegetables in your fridge, so that they stay fresh for more than two weeks? On returning from a three-week Christmas holiday, all my vegetables were as I left them in these bags in the fridge – fresh and ready to eat. I have been using these Roslyn Roberts amazing bags for more Hammond Village than two years and they Coombabah, QLD are still going strong. Bags are washable and reusable and can be kept anywhere in the fridge - on shelves, in the fridge door and the crisper. To purchase immediately visit www.superfreshbags.com.au or call
Super Fresh Bags on 1300 768 706 FREE DELIVERY AUSTRALIA WIDE
May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 15
Page 16 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
community news Burleigh Heads Ladies Probus
Million Paws Walk at Southport ON Sunday 17th May, more than 20,000 people and their dogs will walk in Queensland to show their support for animals in need. The Million Paws Walk is a great day out for the whole family where you will be treated to entertainment, stalls, delicious food, competitions, giveaways and a whole lot more! Regardless of the breed, size or age of your dog, everyone is welcome as long as they are fully vaccinated, friendly and well socialised. No four legged friend? No problem! Even those without pooches are welcome to join in the fun. Money raised through online fundraising, merchandise sales and activities on the day will help to provide essential care, veterinary treatment, food and shelter for more than 15,000 dogs that RSPCA Qld cares for each year. Every dollar you raise will make a big difference and will
assist in reaching the goal of $540,000. Sign up today to help give another dog a second chance at a happy life. Register online at millionpawswalk.com.au/queensland before 15th May to take advantage of ticket price savings and then start fundraising to help fight animal cruelty! Get involved on Sunday 17th May, by enjoying a healthy walk with your four legged friend at The Great Lawn, located within the Broadwater Parklands on Marine Parade, Southport. Funds raised through walk registrations and online fundraising goes towards vital programs, services and campaigns undertaken by RSPCA Queensland, as well as looking after the animals in their care. You can also register on the day at 8.30am, with the walk commencing at 10.30am. You can choose to walk either 1.5km or 3km.
ANZAC
Red Shield Appeal 2015
100 Year Anniversary CD
Ladies enjoying the Brisbane City views
BURLEIGH Heads Ladies Probus had a great day in Brisbane. This photo was taken after the turn on the Brisbane wheel where we enjoyed some fabulous views of the city. Then an ABC studios tour, lunch and a visit to Ikea on the way home. We got lost in Ikea and had to be rounded up, all part of the fun of
the day. We meet at Burleigh Heads SLSC on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 10.30 am. Morning tea, guest speakers and good company. Why not join us, our trips are on the following Wednesday. Call Julia on 5576 4202 or Carol on 5534 5430 for more information, or just come and say hello.
SONGS THE SOLDIERS SANG, WITH LYRICS
Safer roads for the Gold Coast
EASTER is always a bad time for road accidents and with this year’s appalling record in Queensland, GC City Council is promoting a road safety plan. Reducing serious injuries from road accidents by 30% between 2010 and 2020 is a key target outlined in the plan. This bold action is supported by 50 actions to achieve a reduction in road safety trauma. The actions focus on shared and individual responsibilities for all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, public transport passengers, motorcyclists and motorists. Mayor Tom Tate said the 30% target was consistent with national and state government strategies. ‘This road safety
plan is a good first step to deliver safer local roads for people travelling in our city. As a community, we all need to be considerate and aware of others when riding, driving and walking on our roads.’ The City manages more than 3000km of roads and 2000km of footpaths. Between 2009 and 2013 there were more than 3000 crashes on the Gold Coast resulting in serious injury and loss of life. More than 16,000 crashes were reported in the same period with people suffering minor injuries. Tragically, many of these accidents were preventable. Statistics detailed in Council’s plan show excessive speed contributes to 33% of fatal accidents; drink driving was
Musgrave Hill Bowls Club Inc Cnr Musgrave Ave & Kumbari Ave, Southport
CLUB BISTRO $11-$16.50 Asian & Australian 3 Course Buffet Open 7 days for Lunch. Tues - Sun for Dinner Friday Night $16.50 Seafood Wednesday & Sunday Night $13.50 Seafood
a contributing factor in 13%, 10% of fatalities and serious injuries involved an unlicensed driver; in 5% of such accidents, seatbelts weren’t worn; and provisional licence holders account for 20% of serious injuries. The plan prioritises key actions addressing vulnerable road users and members of our community including pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, youth and older people. Actions include improving flooding roads monitoring systems; prioritising upgrades (fixing the worst roads first); managing the road network effectively, including implementing speed awareness devices, school zone traffic management and improving areas with significant multi-modal transport demands. The City has partnered with key stakeholders to develop the Road Safety Plan, the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, Queensland Police, the Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety (Qld) and the RACQ.
GREAT GIFT! $25 Inc. Postage
PH: WALTER 5573 1475 THE Salvation Army has launched its annual Red Shield Appeal, with a national fundraising target of $74 million. The Salvation Army will again look to the Australian public and business community for support. Dick Smith AO was the keynote speaker at the launch. Mr Smith says he and his wife Pip are proud to have supported The Salvation Army over the years. “When I was born in Australia I won the ‘lottery of life’ and for most of my adult life I have believed it is the duty of those who are wealthy to share that wealth with those whose circumstances fall short of what fair-minded people would consider acceptable,” Mr Smith said. “Now spanning 150 years, the work of The Salvation Army has changed the lives of people in need around the world in real and meaningful ways and I am proud to support this fine organisation.” Doorknock dates are 30th and 31st May this year and the Appeal is always grateful for volunteers to help. All volunteer collectors must be registered to participate in the doorknock. You can register online at salvos.org.au or by phoning the volunteer hotline 13 SALVOS (13 72 58). A local doorknock coordinator will then contact you closer to the time and give you information about arrangements in your area.
ENTERTAINMENT
RAFFLES
Three Excellent Greens. Club Open 7 Days. Social Membership - Only $5.00 p.a. Phone
(07) 5532 1277 for more info
www.musgravebowls.com - email: info@musgravebowls.com
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
• Laptop repairs • Older machines revitalised • Virus removal & internet security • Custom built systems
Ask for your Seniors Discount
WE COME TO YOU! PH 0411 327 477
LIFETIME WARRANTY
Parking/Carpark Mishaps
Wednesday Night 35 Prizes Raffle 7.30pm Friday Night . . .60 x $15 Meat Trays 7.30pm Sunday FREE 20 Prize raffle 2-4pm Membership Draws: Wed 8pm, Sat 2pm, Sun 5pm
COURTESY BUS
At last a trustworthy, honest computer person who really cares about giving older people affordable reliable service with all their computer needs in their homes. Call Tony Friend today! He goes the extra mile but doesn’t charge an arm and a leg!
www.coastalpcrepairs.com
Karaoke every Wednesday 6.30pm-10.30pm &1st Sunday of each month 12noon-4pm 100 Poker Machines....Regular Promos Bingo....Tues, Thurs & Sat 7.30pm Mon & Sun 7.00pm Live Entertainment.....Friday Nights from 6.30pm
Operates daily on demand 4pm till late
COMPUTER REPAIRS AT YOUR PLACE
We come to you You come to us!! Pensioner Discounts
• Bumper Scrapes / Scratches • Minor Collision / Panel 5 YEAR • Private / Insurance WAR• New / 2nd Hand Parts RANTY • Equipped Repair Centre • Complete Resprays • Buff / Polish FREE QUOTES • Pre-Sale Packages
VISIT OUR REPAIR CENTRE: 2/44 KORTUM DRIVE BURLEIGH (07) 55 358 261 SMS PIC FOR QUICK QUOTE!
See website for photos, videos & more info www.bumperpro.com.au
TROY 0405 009 145 (Mobile Service Manager)
1300 4 BUMPERS 1300 428 673 ADAM STOKMANIS (DIRECTOR) 0404 156 288 ABN 86 161 113 542
May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 17
community news Seniors reject pensioner reverse mortgage proposal A PROPOSAL by the Centre for Independent Studies to reverse mortgage the family home could leave many elderly people without roofs over their heads, National Seniors warns. The Centre for Independent Studies says its modelling shows that reforming the pension could deliver income gains of more than $5,900 a year to almost 98% of pensioners. These reforms would also reduce the cost of the pension by $14.5 billion a year. “With four out of every five retirees on the pension, and pensioners with over a million dollars in assets getting the same payment as those with almost nothing, the pension clearly needs reform,” says Simon Cowan, research fellow and coauthor of the report, The Age Old Problem of Old Age: Fixing the Pension. “The way to boost pensioner living standards lies in unlocking the savings in the family home, not in continually increasing pension spending.” As the population ages the pressure on the pension will only get worse,” Cowan says. “The answer is for government to count the family home in the assets test, boost take-up rates for reverse mortgages and including that income in the pension income test.” Australians are continually told they don’t save enough for retirement, but there is $625 billion in pensioner housing assets that could be raising pensioner living standards. The potential benefits are enormous,” Cowan says. National Seniors chief executive Michael O’Neill said, “The centre is proposing the government include the family home in the pension assets test and encourage people to take out reverse mortgages. “The proceeds of the reverse mortgages would be included in the income assets test for the Age Pension and according to the
GOLDEN CREST MANORS AWARD WINNING OVER 50’s LIFESTYLE RESORT Enjoy 5 star facilities and daily activities including bowls, tennis, aqua aerobics, tai chi, gymnasium, cinema, arts and crafts, workshop, dancing, bingo, singing, café, hairdressing salon, convenience store, and much much more.. Come and see why it is the most popular over 50’s resort on the Gold Coast!
WITH A SELECTION OF 2 AND 3 BEDROOM HOMES AVAILABLE STARTING FROM JUST $375,000 (07) 55961555 or info@goldencrestmanors.com 1 McKenzie Drive - Highland Park QLD
Centre, slash $14.5 billion from the cost of the pension each year. “But reverse mortgages can be complex financial products and many people do not understand how they work,” he said. “Pensioners could risk losing their homes when the principal, interest and so-called ‘break fees’ to discharge the loan total more than the home is worth. “This could mean many older people would be forced to sell their home and would become even more reliant on the tax-payer-funded Age Pension,” O’Neill said. Source: seniorau.com.au
Welcome to Opal Murwillumbah – Specialist Aged Care
AT Opal Aged Care, we provide specialist residential aged care through our highly trained staff. We currently care for over 5,000 residents across 69 Homes in Australia, with 7 Homes in the Gold Coast and Tweed Heads region. Our Opal Murwillumbah home, located in the beautiful Tweed Valley, is currently undergoing refurbishment and has vacancies to cater to all needs. Opal Murwillumbah’s refurbishment is planned for completion at the end of June 2015 and we encourage you to come and take a tour of our home, so that if you are thinking about residential aged care for yourself or your family, you can have a look and ask any questions you may have. We’re happy to explain levels of care, where to find information on aged care homes, how to work out costs, how to apply and information on moving in and managing your affairs. Sometimes the smallest things cause the greatest anxiety. People often ask ‘can I take my own belongings?’, ‘what’s the food like?’ or ‘can I still garden?’ I can say our Homes provide some of the most passionate and caring staff you’ll ever meet as well as a range of activities and meals for our residents to enjoy in their homes. Contact me for more information, I look forward to talking to you. Jacky Van Der Westhuizen, Regional Admissions Manager. Phone 0438 705 233 or email Jacky.VanDer Westhuizen@opalagedcare. com.au
No Exit Fees
No Body Corporate Fees No Council Rates No Stamp Duty
Top Enders
Central Gold Coast Location All homes are Owner Occupied Pet Friendly Multiple Award
Sales Office Open Monday to Friday 10am-3pm S02F019312 Page 18 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
CONNECTING the over 50’s from all areas of the Gold Coast for friendship, fun outings and fellowship. Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 11am3pm. For more information phone Sue on 0405 936 330 or email Sam oz.sam@live.com.au
AOOB’s Twin Towns Branch OUR monthly meetings are held on the 1st Friday of each month at South Tweed Sports Club, Tweed Heads South at 2pm, in the Secret Garden Room. All members and guests are invited to attend. Phone Evelyn on 07 5599 8283.
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
community news QCWA Coomera
MEMBERS recently catered for a funeral for a member’s son – a sad occasion, but a way to help members of our community. Our park and the hall were well-attended for the Anzac Day Dawn Service and on April 29th, we held a minute’s silence for Anzac Day at the memorial in our park before our Cookery Contest, which brought out some of our gun cooks. Entries ranged from the classic Cinnamon Teacake to Chilli Chocolate cake, and were expertly judged, with our President, Mrs. Margaret Riesenweber, winning 8 sections. A hotly contested section
the Photography, Dressmaking, Floral Art and Public Speaking finals for our Southeastern Division at Canungra on the 15th May and then the Division International Day, to be held at Coomera on the 22nd May, and the Division Cookery contest also at our hall on June 5th. Check out our Facebook page for more pix and info: QCWACoomera. was the Pat Proud Our hall at 161 Trophy - awarded in Maudsland Road memory of a much-loved Oxenford is available for member. hire on 0456 625 776, Our two “cent auctionplease ring 0456 625 776, eers” kept everyone or email laughing with their qcwacoomera@hotmail.com comments and jokes. We We look forward to are looking forward to seeing you.
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
U3A North Gold Coast U3A North Gold Coast (based at Labrador) has welcomed some new members to its 2015 Management Committee and has great plans for the upcoming year. Included is the introduction of an interactive (on-line) Strategic Planning process, which has been introduced and is being managed by Griffith University PhD students and aims to ensure that future direction meets the needs of an ever-changing U3A NGC members. New courses/topics on offer include Preparing Vegetarian Meals, Climate Change, and Italian for
Beginners, as well as a host of technology based workshops. Of note is the upcoming Founders Day Luncheon, to be held on Friday 22nd May at the Arundel Tavern from 12 midday. Anyone who is interested in being part of this celebration should contact the U3A NGC office on 5529 0583. Likewise, if you’d like to make an enquiry regarding U3A NGC (including the on-line Strategic Planning processes) please phone the office on 5529 0583. Website: www.u3anorthgoldcoast.com.
This phone call could leave you a lot worse off SCAMMERS have recently been calling Australians telling them that there is a warrant out for their arrest. Many people have reported to SCAMwatch that messages have been recorded on their answering machines asking them to call back later. The telephone number provided is 0261003027 and they ask you to call during office hours to discuss the matter further. However, the telephone number has no connection with the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions, Australian Taxation Office or any other state or commonwealth department. The scammers may spin a range of stories about why an arrest warrant has been issued, including that you have failed to pay taxes. Scammers typically ask for money to be sent via wire transfer as it’s nearly impossible to recover money sent this way. They may also ask for people’s financial and other personal details to access their money and use this information to commit other scams. Be on guard - if you receive a phone call from someone saying you have an arrest warrant and asking you to pay a fee, hang up and do not respond. If in doubt, don’t use the contact details provided - look up the government department or organisation yourself in the phone book or online and phone or email them.
May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 19
Page 20 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
community news Caravanning through the outback
ONE of the great things about being retired is the ability to travel when the urge strikes you. The best part about living in this great country is that you don’t need to go overseas or have a huge amount of money to enjoy travelling. My wife and I recently took a caravanning trip through the outback of Queensland and the experience was simply breathtaking. Using a combination of free stopovers and caravan parks we were able to keep the cost to a minimum while still enjoy what this country has to offer. During our trip we stopped at Barcaldine to visit the Workers Heritage Centre and Tree of Knowledge, under which the Australian Labor Party was established all those years ago. We wondered what the Labor Party forefathers would have thought about the direction the
party had taken since its inception. The original Tree of Knowledge was poisoned a number of years back and a new tree has been promulgated from its DNA and is being nurtured in the Workers Heritage Centre. It is appropriately called: “The Young’un”. As we travel we tend to use caravan parks in the smaller towns to use as our base for exploring what the area has to offer. And this trip was to be no different. We wanted to spend a few days exploring the Longreach area and decided the perfect place to set up camp would be the small town of Ilfracombe, some 27 km east of Longreach. Caravan parks in the smaller regional centres tend to be a bit quieter and sometimes cheaper than those in the major centres. Ilfracombe has a line of machinery stretching the
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
entire length of its main street and you can spend hours just walking down it. Most of the machines have a plaque telling you the history and what it would have been used for. One piece that caught my eye was a Marshall Oil Tractor which was first used in 1912. It weighed a massive 11½ ton, travelled at a top speed of four miles per hour and used four gallons of fuel per mile! Staying at the Ilfracombe Caravan Park is a real experience with a happy hour that is second to none. Park owners, Jesse and Cathy Hitson have owned the park of the past 10 years and have made some enormous changes in that time. Jesse had the crowd in stitches as he recounted how he had met his wife and other outback tales. We the next day in Longreach and you could easily spend a few more to take in what this
town has to offer. The two ‘must visits’ are the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and the Qantas Founders Museum. The Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame pays tribute to Australia’s stockmen and women, pioneering legends and the Royal Flying Doctor Service. It has an art gallery, artefacts, electronic
displays, photographs and films. You could easily spend a full day exploring what it has to offer. The Qantas Founders Museum is an aviation buffs dream come true and is home to some of Qantas’ famous aircraft, including a DC3, Boeing 747 and 707 airliners. Guided tours of the 747 and 707 are available as is a wing walking tour of the 747 (weather permitting). The 707 was found in England in a poor state of repair but after nearly one year of dedicated rebuilding by ex-Qantas engineers and many others it put back into an airworthy state and flown half way around
the world to Longreach. The sad part is both aircraft will never fly again as the runway is too short to allow them to take-off. Next we are off to
Winton, the dinosaur capitol of Australia and home of Waltzing Matilda and Queensland Boulder Opal. (See our continuing journey in a later edition)
Very Affordable COMPUTER TRAINING I’ll come to you! • Explain things simply in an everyday language • Experienced caring tutor in Microsoft Word, How to send Emails with attachments, Internet Explorer, download pics from your digital camera etc.
Phone Norma
“Experienced Tutor”
5528 8610
Will travel up to 20kms from Runaway Bay
May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 21
community news Deadline for our June edition of Gold Coast Seniors Newspaper is 27th May
MONEY EXCHANGE Buy and Sell Foreign Cash Travel Insurance Phone Cards Telegraphic Transfers Special Seniors Rates No Fees
AUSTRALIA FAIR SHOPPING CENTRE Shop G110 (Just inside off the Nerang Street Mall), Southport - Tel: 5526 4944
PACIFIC FAIR SHOPPING CENTRE Shop 187 (Nearly opposite K Mart), Broadbeach - Tel: 5570 4933
COOLANGATTA 90-100 Griffith Street, Coolangatta - Tel: 5536 8217 - 9am - 5pm
HARBOURTOWN SHOPPING CENTRE (Next to Tourist Lounge) - Tel: 5537 8662
Page 22 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
Nest with a feast of a view This pair of Ospreys, well-known Southport residents, share a nest high above the Broadwater near Sundale Bridge, giving them a wide view over the feast of fish that swims below. Photo by Donna Mroz Turcic
Nerve stimulator implant could offer hope to people with rheumatoid arthritis THE benefits that a new electronic implant might provide for people with rheumatoid arthritis have been demonstrated by scientists from the Academic Medical Centre in Amsterdam in a small study of 20 people. The device sends bursts of electrical impulses to the vagus nerve, which connects the brain to the major organs, for three minutes a day. This reduces the activity of the spleen so it produces fewer chemicals and immune cells that cause harmful inflammation in the joints of people with rheumatoid arthritis. Over half of the people involved in the study showed significant improvement thanks to the device. Some became pain-free, even if they had proven re-
sistant to all other forms of therapy. It is thought that people with other chronic conditions such as asthma, obesity and diabetes could benefit too. The device could be in use within 10 years but first more needs to be done to understand how the technology works and any long-term effects it may have. “Even in patients who have failed everything, including the most modern pharmaceuticals, we have seen a clear trend of improvement,” highlights Prof Paul-Peter Tak who is involved in the project. “We may be able to achieve remission in 20% to 30% of patients, which would be a huge step forward in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.”
Runaway Bay Lions provide huge support to Vanuatu THE Runaway Bay Lions are pleased to announce that an amazing total of $7,823.25 has been raised in support of those in Vanuatu that were affected by the destructive Cyclone Pam. Thanks to the wonderful support of the Runaway Bay Shopping Village, the Lions set up a collection desk with a couple of donation tins for a week. The response by the amazingly generous Runaway Bay and surrounds community was just astounding with donations large and small pouring in consistently over the six days of collection. From corporate donations to school cupcake drives, to individual donations – the range of donors was the full cross section of our community. As is the case with every Lions fundraising event, every single cent that was raised has been sent in support of the cause, in this case the people of Vanuatu. Runaway Bay Lions Club sincerely thanks all the donors, and the Runaway Bay Shopping Village community for making this appeal an outstanding success.
Robina VIEW Club THE Robina VIEW Club meets on the 1st Wednesday of each month starting at 9.30am for morning tea at Robina Bowls Club, Ron Penhaligon Way, Robina. We have interesting Guest Speakers and Friendship Days, which include pleasant outings. New members and guests are always welcome. For more details please phone Jennifer on 0408 005 458. VIEW supports the Smith Family’s ‘Leaning for Life’ program.
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
community news Australia’s Coolest Celebration of the 50’s and 60’s
FANS of rock’n’roll, rockabilly, classic cars, hot rods and the fashions of the 50s and 60s will converge on the Southern Gold Coast and Tweed from 29th May-8th June for Cooly Rocks On, Australia’s number one Nostalgia Festival. For 11 action-packed days, the border towns of Coolangatta and Tweed Heads will be fuelled with party atmosphere. Pre1970 cars, nightly cruises, music, dancing and famThe Street Parade ily fun are all trademarks of this annual, much- an amped-up crowd of tended Cooly Rocks On, loved festival. Last year, over 100,000 people at- held in the colourful, vibrant and beautiful beachside destinations of Coolangatta and Tweed Heads. More than 50 rock’n’roll and rockabilly bands will perform this year, alongside a line-up of guest international artists, who will rock the crowd at outdoor concerts, beachside marquee events and performances at local clubs and venues throughout the border towns. Cooly Rocks On is revving up to host the biggest and best car show ever this year with over 1,300 custom and classic cars and hot rods registered for the Shannon’s Jim and Sharon Sciortino dancing in the streets Show’n’Shine car dis-
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
day 6th June. The parade leaves Musgrave Street Kirra at 9.30am and continues along Marine Pa-
rade Coolangatta. This year the two kilometre procession of colour and fun will also travel along
Griffith Street allowing more vantage points in Coolangatta’s two main streets.
plays. Car enthusiasts can preview some of the cars at the ‘Sneak Peek’ Show’n’Shine in Marine Parade Coolangatta on Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st May. On the Queen’s Birthday weekend, 6th and 7th June, the major Show’n’Shine will be in full swing, with streets throughout the border towns brimming with unique and extraordinary cars. Organisers estimate the value of cars on display this year will top the 30 million dollar mark. A spectacular and muchloved tradition of Cooly Rocks On, the annual Sharp Motor Group Cooly Rocks On Street Parade, will take place on Satur-
May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 23
Page 24 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
community news
Having a ‘Catnap’
Coolangatta Senior Citizens Centre
THE Coolangatta Senior Citizens Centre for ‘50 and over Seniors’ welcomes all Gold Coast and Tweed residents and visitors. The Centre has a large range of activities including, Bingo, Ballroom Dancing (New Vogue & Modern Incl. Lessons), Broadband for Seniors with free computer lessons, Card Games, Choir group, Indoor Bowls, Knit & Natter, Craft & Chatter, Light Exercises, Line Dancing, Mah Jong, Meditation, Qigong, Rock & Roll (incl. lessons,) Spanish, Swing or Sway, Snooker & Eight Ball, Social Table Tennis, Tai Chi and Yoga. Also, Monthly Bus Trips, Free Monthly Variety Concerts, a Hairdresser & Beautician, Free Wi-Fi, inter
active Sports on Big Screen. Our next Free Monthly Concert will be on Monday 25th May at 1pm and will feature “THE DIXIE JAZZ BAND” This multitalented group of outstanding local professional musicians will enthrall you as they play all the Traditional Jazz songs that you know and love to hear. A great afternoon of entertainment is assured. BYO lunch/nibbles, Tea /Coffee available. For enquiries, events brochure and concert bookings (recommended), please phone 07 5536 4050 or visit the centre at 2 Gerrard Street, Coolangatta. We look forward to making you welcome.
Twin Towns Evening VIEW Club
TWIN Towns Evening VIEW Club meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month at Tweed Heads Bowls Club at 6.30pm. Visiting interstate View Club Ladies are always welcome to join a friendly group of women who enjoy a two course meal and Guest Speakers. As a group they not only raise funds for Disadvantaged Australian Children to help them attain good education but make lasting friendships. Many activities are organized though out the year, such as visiting other View Clubs for special events. VIEW is a part of the Smith Family. So come and join us. Phone Jenny on 07 5536 2653 by 1pm on the Monday prior or email twintownseveningview@gmail.com
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
Lifeline Bookfest returns to the Gold Coast
Tweed Valley Justices Association
THE Gold Coast Lifeline Bookfest is a must visit event with more than 100,000 second hand books waiting to be read. Booklovers, students and book collectors can lose themselves in the vast array of fiction, reference, history, health and wellbeing, cooking, children’s and science fiction with books at prices as low as $1 when Bookfest returns to the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre on 15 to 17 May 2015. Doors are open 8am to 5pm daily. “We were overwhelmed by the response we received last year from the Gold Coast community with more than 6000 people visiting the Bookfest and helping to support the Lifeline 24 hour 13 11 14 Crisis Support Line, and other UnitingCare Community services” said Jim Dale, Lifeline Business Manager Gold Coast. “For this year’s Bookfest we have received a collection of valuable books such as History of Holden since 1917, James Bond novels, the Penguin complete centenary collection and many others books in nearly new condition.” “Opening day is always our busiest day so we recommend that people arrive early, first timers to the event should be aware that we are continuously restocking the tables with help from over 200 volunteers so its worthwhile popping in several times throughout the weekend”. Customers who spend more than $50 at the Gold Coast Bookfest get a chance to enter into a raffle draw. There will be 5 raffle draws every day where the lucky winners will win $30 vouchers to shop at a Lifeline Shop on the Gold Coast or at the Lifeline Bookfest. Lifeline encourages everyone to have the Lifeline Bookfest experience, and if you haven’t been before, you should come along and get lost in the world of books. Can you help Lifeline at the Bookfest event? Volunteers are needed to help in the lead up to the event and throughout. To join the volunteer team call 07 5510 4555.
TWEED Valley Justices of the Peace meet on 3rd Wednesday of the month at the South Tweed Sports Centre. Next month on 20th May, we will have a guest speaker John Bancroft, from Westpac Helirescue Services. If you are a JP, you are invited to join the Association. If you would like to become a JP, please contact your local member, visit our website or call our President Colleen on 0439 700 311. Our members will be available for signing at Tweed Centro on Tuesdays between 10 and 2 and Tweed City on Thursday between 10 and 2 and 5 till 7. Don’t forget to bring your ID.
You are most Welcome! Rental Accommodation for Single Pensioners & Over 50’s Available Now! No Entry/Exit fee Costs only part of the single pension. All meals included.
Warm Friendly Environment Comfortable, air conditioned & fully furnished unit with ensuite bathroom, washing machine and dryer (bedroom, lounge & bath) • All meals cooked fresh on the premises • Quiet suburban location; walk to public transport • Close to shopping centres • Parking • Onsite Manager • Also available: visiting doctor & hairdresser
BOUGAINVILLEA LODGE 5 Bourton Rd Merrimac, 4226, Gold Coast Ph: 07 5530 6011 or 0406 823 156 www.bougainvillealodge.net.au
May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 25
News from THE TWEED Tweed Heads Diabetes Support Group ON Tuesday 12th May at 9.30am, we have guest speaker Eileen Fleming, Author ‘I Just Want to Feel Good Again’. Our meetings are relaxed, friendly, informative and everyone is welcome! Regular meetings are held throughout the year at 9.30am on the 2nd Tuesday of every Month (February to November). Location details are Community Room, Tweed City Shopping Centre, 54 Minjungbal Drive, Tweed Heads. Contact Janet Commens, Convenor on 07 5576 2328 for further information.
Bulk Billed Children’s Dental Scheme
TWEED HEADS SOUTH
BROADBEACH
Tweed City Shopping Centre (off the food court) Open Monday to Saturday
15 Albert Avenue,
Phone: 5524 8888
Phone: 5527 5585
(opposite Commonwealth Bank)
U3A Tweed Coast Inc. – Learning and Loving It ARE you new to the Tweed or recently retired - would you like to try something new? At U3A Tweed Coast we acknowledge that a well-rounded, intellectually diverse life, a good social network, social engagement and physical activity help to keep our brains healthy for as long as possible. Our organisation ticks all these boxes and enables people in their Third Age to continue to share the journey of life-long learning. University of the Third Age is a worldwide movement. U3As are “Universities” in the original sense of the term, communities of people who come together to learn from one another. Why do we call ourselves a Third Age group? Age 1 is our childhood, Age 2 our working life and Age 3 our retirement. Here at U3A Tweed Coast we have learnt that life doesn’t stop at 50. In fact, you can also become part of our happy band as long as you are 40. Think of this early participation as practising for reaching that exciting mid-century milestone. Group leaders at U3A Tweed Coast volunteer their time and services which, combined with the generosity of venue managers and the fact that we do not operate our own office, enables
us to keep our fees to a low $35p.a. This entitles attendance at as many classes as members wish without further cost. Our curriculum is extensive and classes are conducted in a friendly, non-formal atmosphere during NSW school terms.at venues from Tweed Heads to Pottsville. Our website: tweedcoast.u3anet.org.au/wp contains course information for Second Term 2015, including course particulars and contact information for group leaders. Membership application forms are available to download on this site. Alternatively, contact us via our email address: tweedcoastu3a@gmail.com For those not connected to the Internet, phone Lynda on (07) 5513 1047. Our First Friday Forum on the 5th of June at 2pm, will take the form of a talk with the title “Safety for Seniors” to be presented by Pam Blowers, Volunteer in Policing, NSW Police Force. The venue for this event is the Uniting Church Hall, 24 Kingscliff Street, Kingscliff. Afternoon tea will be served (donation $2). You do not have to be a U3A member to attend, everyone is welcome. Forum enquiries to Ian on 0478 451 706.
U3A Twin Towns Tea & Talk
NSA Gold Coast South – Twin Towns
OUR guest speaker in May will be Sandra Dowling from the Department of Human Services. Sandra will bring us up to date on Aged Care services. She will also tell us what financial and service benefits are available to us as senior citizens. Last month Jenny Greenwood spoke to us about her experiences as a puppy raiser for Guide Dogs, Queensland. Jenny told us about the challenges and triumphs of puppy raising. Her latest puppy, Noel, had left her about half an hour before she came to speak and she told us how difficult it was to see him driven away to begin the next phase of his training but she was looking forward to watching his graduation. As sad as she felt she was also happy to know that Noel had made it through the first phase of his training. Jenny had photos of the handsome dogs that she’s raised. All of the pictures were lovely but the absolute best was one where Noel and Jenny’s two year old grandson were communing over their soft toys, side by side on the floor. Jenny had told her grandson that Noel was feeling a bit sad and sore after being to the vet and the little boy was comforting him. Tea and Talk is held at 2.00PM on the second Wednesday of each month at the Tweed Library
NATIONAL Servicemen’s Association of Australia (Qld) Gold Coast South – Twin Towns. RSL Sub Branch Room of the Twin Towns Services Club. GCS - Twin Towns Branch, serving from Tallebudgera to Tweed. Next General Meeting is Sunday 17th May at 10am in the Sub Branch. Members of Military Forces of the Commonwealth “between” 1951 -1972 and Partners are all welcome to attend. Come along to our meeting and Social outings and re kindle the camaraderie you experienced during your Service. For further information contact: Tom Hughes, Public officer on 07 5513 0665.
Tweed Border Branch of National Seniors
TWEED Border Branch of National Seniors will meet at the South Tweed Sports Club, 4 Minjungbal Drive at 10:00am on Wednesday, 27th May. Guest speaker will be Dick Ciffjers from Travelworld. Bus trip is to Jasmine Organics at Mt Tamborine followed by lunch at Eagle Hawk Hotel. Bus times at April meeting all inquiries to Jan on 5523 1255.
Tweed Shire Library Events
Check out our showroom of new scooters, power chairs and a large variety of daily living aids • Large range of New & Used Scooters from Shoprider, Merits, Pride & Elite/Breeze • Wheelchairs/Walkers • Lift Chairs • Daily Living Aids • Power Chairs • Huge range of Spare Parts & Accessories • Free Home Demos • Interest Free Finance (conditions apply) • Expert Servicing • Hire Equipment • Emergency Breakdown Service
NEW PORTABLE FOLDING SCOOTERS FROM MERITS
Covering Tweed, Test scoot today Gold Coast & Northern Rivers New models of AGENTS FOR ACORN STAIRLIFTS & outdoor scooters NOW SUPPLYING ADJUSTABLE BEDS from Pride 2/84 Industry Drive, Tweed Heads South
Page 26 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
07 5524 4398 1800 726 000
www.scootersandmobility.com.au
Tweed Heads Monday 11 May 2015, 11.30am – Wills and Power of Attorney. Want more information about wills, power of attorney or guardianship? Kimbah Pengelly from the Northern Rivers Community Legal Centre will discuss and answer your questions. Bookings essential 07 5569 3150. Wednesday 20 May 2015, 11am – Special Storytime with Henry the Guide Dog. Join Henry and his handler Bev for a reading of the story “Along came Henry.” Wednesday 27 May 2015, 11am – National Simultaneous Storytime. To celebrate Library and Information Week, join thousands of other children reading simultaneously in libraries, schools, childcare centres and many other places around the country. Thursday 28 May 2015, 10 – 11.30am – Recycled paper crafts for grown-ups! Come along and make something new and beautiful using different types of recycled paper. Bookings essential 07 5569 3150. Murwillumbah Thursday 21 May 2015 11:00am The trip is over: what now? Reliving and sharing the travel experience. Have you been on holiday? Got lots of photos and/or videos? Leonie Jennings will show
you what to do with them and bring them alive. See how to create your own photo books, slideshows and travel blogs. Bookings 02 66702427. Wednesday 27 May 2015, 11am – National Simultaneous Storytime. To celebrate Library and Information Week, join thousands of other children reading simultaneously in libraries, schools, childcare centres and many other places around the country. Kingscliff – Friday 8 May 2015, 10am – Do It yourself Fermenting Food. Get Healthy with Fermented LiveCulture Food: In this fun & informative session you’ll learn why fermented food is good for you & how to get started. Bookings 0266 741 607. Wednesday 27 May 2015, 11am – 11.30am – Simultaneous Storytime. Listen to the same children’s’ story being read throughout the public Libraries, childcare centres, schools within Australia: The Brothers Quibble by Aaron Blabey. Wednesday 27 May 2015, 2pm - 3pm - Library Week: Poetry with Deborah Bates. Listen to Deborah as she explains the fundamentals and inner workings of Poetry. A very enlightening poetry session. Bookings 0266 741 607. www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
News from THE TWEED Tweed Hospital Auxiliary prizes was drawn on the day, with Julie Braithwaite from Brisbane, being the winner of the Rainbow Rug which was the 1 st prize. Our next fundraising event will be our Annual Fashion Parade to be held in the Tweed Civic Centre, Cnr Wharf & Brett Streets Tweed Heads on Friday 29th May, commencing at 10am.
Maggie-anne Leybourne of BAM Corporate Events will again be our compere. There will be fabulous fashions supplied by Autograph, BeMe, Black Pepper, Connor, Jeans West, Katies, Noni B, Resort Wear, Rockmans, Simoda, Suzanne Grae, The Works, Tummy Control and W. Lane. Tickets are $15 per
person and can be purchased at the Tweed Hospital Auxiliary Gift Shop and at the door. Morning Tea will be supplied and there will be Lucky Door Prizes and the Fashion Parade Raffle will be drawn on the day. Raffle tickets are on sale at various shopping centres and clubs around the Tweed. Why not come
along and have a great time and support the local Tweed Hospital Auxiliary? Also don’t forget that the Auxiliary holds Bingo sessions every Sunday afternoon commencing at 1pm at the Tweed Heads Bowls Club. Proceeds from all our fundraising activities go to the Tweed Hospital.
Jean Carter, Jennifer McKellar, Denise Morton and Sue Stanger. All Auxiliary members with Julie Braithwaite (centre) 1st prize winner from April raffle
THE Tweed Hospital Auxiliary held a very successful Market Day at Noble Park Lakeside Village in Kingscliff on Fri-
day 10th April. Approximately $4000 was raised on the day with all proceeds going to purchase necessary equipment for
the Tweed Hospital. A very big Thank you to everyone who contributed and attended on the day. A raffle with various
Tweed Computer Club I HAVE been making a few Photo Books of holidays and my photography that now spans sixty-five years. I keep learning new things that can be achieved with modern devices. It comes as a shock when early one Sunday a four year old grandchild rings up on a video link to have a chat. The club provides a great start for those people new to the many different devices that now are available. Classes are very relaxed and the opportunity to learn new things is never-ending. The club started in 2007 using the raised part of the room and it has now expanded to almost fill the space and hundreds of people have benefited from the tuition that has been made available. When I started my computer experience I knew nothing and it was hands on learning then. There
is always a start point and the computer club is the easy way to begin. The computer club is located in the South Tweed Sports Club 4 Minjungbal Drive South Tweed in a great air conditioned environment. Assistance is offered to people wishing to obtain their first computer with courses from absolute beginners to the more advanced. The tutors work on a voluntary basis and get fulfilment from passing on their knowledge to help others using the PC’s and Apple Mac Computers. People can join at any time but if they require more direct information they can attend the next “sign on” day on Friday 29th May at 11am-1pm. Further information about the club can be obtained by visiting the club’s web site at http:// www.tact.org.au or contacting Jenny on 07 5524 3057.
Let’s play cards
At The Eye Care Clinic, our eye surgeons and specialists care enough to see you as people, not just as someone with a problem. Doctors Novakovic, Svoboda and Lamont personally see you all the way through your procedure - right from the first visit till they are totally satisfied all is well. Nor does this high level of care mean that you are charged an arm and a leg. We actively work to keep the costs as low as possible, and provide services including cataract surgery, glaucoma, lid tumours, diabetic eyes, iritis, laser surgery, squints, dry eyes and lid malpositions. In fact those who are insured also enjoy the cost saving benefit of our No Gap Policy. What’s more, there’s no need to travel out of the local area for the actual surgery as our surgeons operate in Tweed Heads. We also offer a full range of eye care services through the Public health system in Murwillumbah. When you want someone that takes a sight better care of both you and your health, ask for The Eye Care Clinic. You’ll see we really do care.
WE play Euchre and 500 at the Tweed Heads Bowls Club every Monday. Euchre starts at 10am and finishes 12 noon. 500 starts at 1pm and finishes 3.30pm. There are numerous prizes to be won. $4 to play for non members. The card club is now into it’s 11th year with new members and beginners being most welcome. Come along and enjoy the friendship and atmosphere. For further information please ring Adrian on 0417 714 219 or (02) 6676 3315 or Barbara on 0433 002 442.
WE DELIVER TO YOUR DOOR WE MEASURE AND FIT COMPRESSION/ SURGICAL LEGWEAR IN-STORE
10% DISCOUNT on presentation of this ad - not valid on Sale items
WE CAN SERVICE YOUR SCOOTER
GREAT RANGE OF BATHROOM AIDS
NEW & USED SCOOTERS
NOW IN STOCK $ TRUSTCARE 139 OUTDOOR WALKER
95
$
FROM
1100
$
BUY ONE GET THE SECOND ONE HALF PRICE
• Hire • Repairs • Wheelchairs • Walking Aids • Bathroom Aids • In Home Service • Continence Care • Medical Legwear • Daily Living Aids
Call Carole, Andrew Wendi forWendi friendly, experienced help from locals Call Carole,and Andrew and for friendly, experienced help from locals
1/29 BOYD ST TWEED HEADS • 07 5536 8841 • tweed.walkonwheels.com.au • PALM BEACH • ROBINA • BURLEIGH • MUDGEERABA • NERANG • CURRUMBIN • SOUTHPORT • POTTSVILLE • MURWILLUMBAH • BYRON BAY
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 27
FEELING GOOD
nt e d n e p e d In g in y a t and S Volunteers reduce maternal mortality rates in Africa
HELP improve women’s health care in Africa with ‘Mercy Monday in May’. Mercy Ships is asking for your help to raise awareness and funds for women’s health issues in Africa by participating in Mercy Monday in May. Helping is easier than you think, all you need to do is get your friends together for a good time and raise money for a great cause in the process. Coinciding with International Nurses Day, National Volunteer Week and Mother’s Day, Mercy Monday in May on May 11th, will help Mercy Ships volunteers’ to provide life-changing medical assistance in the African island nation of Madagas-
widely available. They occur during prolonged or difficult labours and they can have devastating physical and emotional consequences. “Africa holds the highest maternal mortality rates in the world. A woman living in sub-Saharan Africa has a one in 16 chance of dying during pregnancy, compared to a one in 13,300 risk for a woman in Australia,” Mr Burrell said. “Mercy Ships volunteers provide free corrective surgery, rehabilitacar. “Without access to impact,” explained Mercy Western countries where tion and counselling to medical care during and Ships Australia Manag- caesarean sections are some of the estimated 2 after childbirth, many ing Director, Alan Burrell. women are left with These health issues, vesichronic health issues that covaginal fistulas and can have a devastating rectovaginal fistulas are GATHER your girlfriends for a weekend of inspiraphysical and emotional relatively unknown in tion, information and fun at the 2015 Women’s Health and Wellbeing Expo on May 16th-17th at the Robina Community Centre, with an emphasis on recognising and celebrating women’s lifestyles in all of their vibrancy and diversity. The Expo has something to offer everyone and will showcase a SAFELY Home is a joint partnership How does it work? When someone vast array of information, presentations and interbetween Alzheimer’s Australia (Qld) finds the lost person, they can look at active demonstrations all under the one roof, inand the Missing Persons Unit of the the bracelet, telephone the police and cluding medical and health specialists, cooking Queensland Police Service (QPS). It quote the personal identification numdemonstrations, beauty and skincare, fashion, busican help people living with dementia ber. The police then make arrangeness coaching, financial health and tips on active to walk safely by providing rapid and ments for the person to be returned accurate identification if they get lost. safely home. Carers can use Safely Safely Home provides a stainless steel Home to instigate a search for the perbracelet, designed to be worn at all son with dementia by contact their lo- MEDITATION and positive thinking on Monday’s times by the person with dementia. It cal police station and filing a Missing 10.30am-11.30am. Regular meditation should improve features an engraved toll-free telephone Persons Report. The police immedi- your ability to focus and think clearly. By practicing number and personal identification ately initiate a search using the infor- meditations which cultivate our ability to sense and number linked to the QPS Missing Per- mation on the database. Thanks to the care for our natural energy we are able to live life with sons Unit database. The confidential generous start-up funding from greater awareness and confidence. Each class includes database includes a detailed descrip- Lowood Slimmers Group, the Safely guided meditations, discussions, short talks and the tion of the person with dementia, in- Home program is a free service for introduction and practice of techniques. Free Event. cluding a photograph, where provided, people with dementia in Queensland. Seeking Silence – Tuesday Evening Meditation 6.30contact information, previous residen- The Safely Home bracelet is available 7.30pm. Leave your day behind you and take an hour tial address and locations the person by filling out a registration form from to get back to the silence and stillness within. The may visit. The database is accessible the Alzheimer’s Australia (Qld) website hour will include intervals of guided meditations, siby police at all times. Safely Home is (qld.fightdementia.org.au) or by tele- lence and gentle music. You are welcome to come suitable for anyone with intellectual phoning the National Dementia and go at any time during the hour. Free Event. Medidisabilities at risk of becoming lost. Helpline on 1800 100 500. tations on Sundays 5.30-6.30pm. Join us for an hour of meditation to start your week in a peaceful way. Free Event. All are welcome. Please contact us beforehand to register your attendance. To assist us in running these programs, voluntary contributions are gratefully accepted. 27 Bordeaux Parade, Mermaid Waters. Phone 5575 2126, email: goldcoast@ au.brahmakumaris.org or website: http:// www.brahmakumaris.org/au/whatson
million mothers who suffer from childbirth injuries and our women’s health program allows us to do even more to prevent these childbirth injuries from happening in the first place,” Mr Burrell added. Mercy Monday is a great way for people to share the story of the charity with their friends, and improve women’s health in Africa at the same time. Events can be of any size and held at any time during May. Mercy Ships will provide everything else needed to host an event, such as invitations, a
DVD, brochures and other materials to help make your Mercy Monday in May event a great success. Mercy Ships uses hospital ships to deliver free, world-class health care services, capacity building and sustainable development to those without access in the developing world. Register your interest in hosting a Mercy Monday in May event by contacting the Mercy Ships Australia national office on (07) 5437 2992 or visit w w w . m e r c y monday.org.au.
2015 Women’s Health and Well-Being Expo
Safely Home - Peace of mind for people living with dementia
Gold Coast Brahmakumaris
ageing. Why Attend? The Expo promises to provide expert tips, advice and a wide range of educational and informative products and services on how to get the most out of life for women of all ages. It’s a FREE community event, proudly presented by Gold Coast City Council. Enhancing women’s health and well-being enriches lives, families and communities. Where: at the Robina Community Centre, Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May. Parking is available at the Robina Community or park at the Robina Town Shopping Centre.
Beach access for mobility devices DID you know that Gold Coast City Council provides beach matting alongside the swimming enclosure at the Southport Broadwater Parklands? This matting enables residents and visitors using wheelchairs or scooters to get close to the water’s edge. A number of our beaches have other accessible features including connecting pathways, level viewing platforms and access ramps to the sands. These include Broadbeach, Kirra, Coolangatta, Rainbow Bay, Snapper Rocks, Main Beach, Mermaid Beach, Miami, Burleigh, Palm Beach, Currumbin, Surfers Paradise, Tugun and Bilinga. You can also hire beach wheelchairs from Gold Coast Recreation and Sport (phone 5531 3312 Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm) and the Tallebudgera Surf Club (phone 5576 4415). For more details on beach access points and platforms, visit www.cityofgoldcoast.com.au/beachaccess The Gold Coast Disabled Surfers Association also runs ‘Let’s Go Surfing’ Days at Currumbin. For more details visit their website:www.disabledsurfers.org/qld/goldcoast-branch/
UnitingCare Community
B Sc Podiatry (Hons) M.A.Pod.A Member of Sports Podiatry Qld Provider No 2494087A ACN 158 015 260
Weekdays 8.30am-5.00pm Saturdays 9am-12noon
Coolangatta & Mudgeeraba www.chrisgarsidepodiatry.com.au Page 28 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
FOR the cost of a local call, seniors can speak to a real person for information and support. The UnitingCare Community Seniors Enquiry Line helps seniors, their friends, family and carers with information about a wide range of topics including concessions, household assistance, retirement accommodation, transport, social activities and much more. No question is too big or small, so please call UnitingCare Community on 1300 135 500, Monday to Friday between 9am-5pm. www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
FEELING GOOD
endent p e d In g in y a t S d an
National Volunteer Week 2015
THE 26th annual National Volunteer Week running from the 11th-17th May, is an opportunity to make Australia the happiest place on earth. While you might think volunteers are just naturally happy people, it’s becoming apparent that the benefits of volunteering aren’t limited to charity and nonprofit organisations. Research has shown that giving just few hours of your time can make can make you happier, healthier and even improve your sleep. Volunteers experience a “helpers high”, a powerful physical and emotional feeling associated with better mental health and overall well-being. Not only does volunteering have a profound positive bearing on our communities and improve the health of participants,
it helps individuals find themselves, discover a new skill or passion or feel the satisfaction of becoming an active contributor in your community. Volunteers play a crucial role in our communities, less than 10% of Australia’s 600,000 plus not-for-profit organisation’s, have the resources to employ paid staff. National Volunteering Week is not only a chance to say thank you, it’s the perfect time roll up your sleeves and help out. Each year volunteers contribute $290 billion to the Australian economy, this Nation Volunteer Week join more than 6 million Australians and “Give Happy, Live Happy”. Visit volunteeringaustralia.org to connect with over 10,000 volunteering opportunities and find your slice of the happiness.
Robina Red Cross ROBINA Red Cross Branch is seeking the voluntary services of a qualified auditor to check the computerised accounts of this branch. Our financial year ends 30th June. Should you feel able to volunteer your time to carry out this service, please contact our President, Margaret on 55 70 1903.
Tweed Coast CFS/ME/FMS Support Group Inc.
FIBROMYALGIA, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Support Group meets on the 1st Friday of every month at 10.30am at the South Tweed Sports Club, 4 Minjungbal Drive, Tweed Heads South. All welcome. For further information call Bronwyn on 5593 9319.
Bowel Cancer Awareness Month
BOWEL Cancer Awareness Month is an annual initiative of Bowel Cancer Australia running throughout the month of June (1st-30th June each year) to raise public awareness of a disease that claims the lives of 77 Australians every week. Bowel cancer is the second most common type of newly diagnosed cancer in Australia affecting both men and women almost equally and is Australia’s second biggest cancer killer after lung cancer. Bowel Cancer Awareness Month has a positive message, saving lives through early detection, as bowel cancer is one of the most curable types of cancer if found early. Bowelscan is a public awareness program seeking to increase community knowledge of bowel cancer and its symptoms as well as the
distribution of faecal occult blood testing kits to facilitate early diagnosis. Australian Rotary Health supports and promotes the programs of Bowelscan. These test kits can be obtained from your pharmacy, for a cost of $15. The test is completed at home and the results of the ensuing pathology analysis are sent back to you and your nominated GP. Positive results from bowel screening programs do not confirm the presence of bowel cancer but indicate the presence of blood that may be invisible to the naked eye in your bowel movement, this may be an early warning sign. You should speak to your GP who will initiate further investigation such as a colonoscopy. Ask your pharmacist about buying a Bowelscan kit today!
New Coolangatta Zumba Gold Class! COOLANGATTA’S newest Zumba Gold class is starting on Tuesday 28th April at 10.30am. This class is a low impact dance fitness program suitable for active seniors, beginners, and anyone looking to increase their fitness, balance and co-ordination. Zumba can help reduce depression, stress and anxiety, and gives you an opportunity to meet other people. It’s lots of fun, with easy to follow moves, many participants come because they love dancing and the music, this is truly exercise in disguise! See you at Zumba Gold every Tuesday at 10.30am, Twin Towns Uniting Church, Cnr McLean & Lanham Sts, Coolangatta. All Welcome. Casual classes available. Phone Rovena on 0405 989 280 for more information.
ANTHONY NEST
DENTURE CLINICS PENSIONER DENTURES VETERAN AFFAIRS ALL HEALTH FUND PROVIDERS BANORA POINT
5523 3588
TWEED HEADS
5599 2744
Banora Point Shop 2/25 Stuart Street
BURLEIGH HEADS 5576 3244 1894 Gold Coast Hwy
TUGUN
5525 0012
Cnr West Wyberba & Karana Streets
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
Gold Coast Stroke Support Group A supporter of National Stroke Foundation. For any stroke (or brain attack) survivor members or their family, their carers and other interested members of the public. Finger food luncheon sponsored by Somerville funerals (held bi-monthly). Next luncheon day is Wednesday 3rd June. Please mark your diary. For more information email colin oxenford@bigpond.com or visit the website www.goldcoaststroke supportgroup.org.au
Living well with Parkinson’s DO you or your partner have Parkinson’s disease? Blue Care Gold Coast Allied Health is running a’ Living well with Parkinson’s Disease’ group. Come along and learn practical hints and tips about Parkinson disease. Group commenced in April but runs for 10 weeks in Southport. To register or for more information, call Blue Care Customer Service centre on 1300 258 322. May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 29
Let’s Get
Fresh The Story of Our Country
THIS is a Green Army project, funded jointly by the Australian Government and City of the Gold Coast, with support from indigenous leaders from Yugambeh Museum and Friends of the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens and supervi-
sion by Conservation Volunteers Australia. The project is one of many practical Green Army environmental projects around Australia supporting the local environment and national and indigenous heritage conservation.
Representatives from the Yugambeh Museum described three regions traversed by Aboriginal people both in the distant past and more recently as the community pilgrimage ‘Drumley Walk’. Their detailed brief dictated the design. The ‘Story
of our Country’ garden is an abstracted landscape with an extensive regional planting palette, addressing both landforms and plant types in honour of this historic and now contemporary journey. An extensive species list relates stories of Aboriginal plant use and reflects the connection between seasonal plant habits to other food sources such as fish, birds and mammals. Plants with other
important Aboriginal uses are also included, including rare species. The simulated journey will be travelled along an informal pathway in either direction – from open grassland through transitional woodland and subtropical rainforest set amidst volcanic rocks to a headland with hexagonal basalt and adjacent coastal heath communities. There are two ephemeral lagoons, one in the coastal zone and the other an inland
waterhole. A bush track system will allow discovery away from the main access path, which leads across a spacious open area simulating the traditional Bora Ring. A smaller second meeting place will be hidden amongst rainforest vegetation. As the planting matures, artwork and signs will be introduced to interpret important cultural Aboriginal stories and relate the sustainable practices that ensured
ongoing resources and protected the land. Regular visitors to the Gardens have watched the progress of construction and will be among the first to take a walk along the journey when the barriers come down! With the weather gradually cooling into Autumn, it’s a great time for a walk through the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens. Perhaps try an ice cream, organic coffee or a snack at the Friends Centre afterwards.
Keep kitty indoors
BSA Lic 11 597 62
Do you need a Good Plumber? For good old fashioned reliable service
Solar Hot Water Bathroom Renovations Taps Repair and Replacing Toilets All General Maintenance
Acclaimed Plumbing 0410 324 524 Qld Lic. No. 1105535 NSW Lic. No. 94696C
GLENDALE GRANNY CABINS
• Independence • Security • Peace of Mind
CITY of Gold Coast is working towards a city of contentedly contained cats in a bid to protect our precious native wildlife. Community and Cultural Development Chair Cr Bob La Castra said keeping cats enclosed was part of responsible cat ownership. ‘Many people routinely let their cat outside but they’re actually far better off kept safely indoors as much as possible, if not all the time,’ he said. ‘Cats don’t have to roam outdoors to be happy. In fact, a cat that is secured, whether it be in the home or within a cat-proof fence or an enclosure, will usually live longer than if allowed to roam free. ‘It’s natural for cats to want to act out their hunting instinct but there are plenty of ways your cat can be happily entertained indoors. Apart from reducing the risk of becoming lost or impounded, indoor cats have much less chance of being injured or killed in a road accident, fight or dog attack. ‘Plus the risk of picking up ticks and diseases, which can cost an owner hundreds of dollars to have treated, is dramatically lowered. When it comes to protecting your feline friend, keeping your cat contained is as important as microchipping and desexing.’ Cr La Castra said the environmental impact of unrestrained cats was a real concern. ‘Our biodiversity is world-class but the reality is, cats kill native animals,’
Coastal Machine Knitters MACHINE knitting enthusiasts meet at The Franklin Craft Centre, Mudgeeraba on the second Monday of the month (or third Monday when the second Monday is a public). Our next meeting will be held on Monday 15th June,commencing 9am and ending around lunch time. A Singer machine will be used for our demonstration, following the usual Show and Tell of members’ knitting and other craft works done during the month. Our Group has always been active in knitting items for those in need and this year, by using donated and our own yarns, we’re making a special winter effort for people on the Gold Coast. We are a congenial group who together have a large knowledge of knitting machines and can usually help anyone with knitting machine problems or enquiries. Visitors to our meetings are always welcome and further information is available by phoning 5537 1436.
Tom Beatson Outlook closed THE IDEAL SITUATION
Providing privacy and Independence, with the security of proximity to family. Glendale Granny Cabins provide comfortable, self-contained accommodation for elderly relatives on the same site as the family home.
• Over 4000 satisfied Glendale owners • 7 year structural warranty • Over 25 years experience • Undisputed industry leader
OBLIGATION FREE SITE INSPECTIONS AND DESIGN ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE
Dickson Rd., Caboolture 4510 FREECALL 1800 801 710
Please send me more information on Glendale Granny Cabins Mr/Mrs/Miss .............................................................. Address ................................................................... .................................................P/C.......................... Phone ......................................................................
Page 30 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
THE Tom Beatson Outlook and walkway at Tweed Heads (commonly known as Razorback) has been closed to the public until further notice. The decision was made in the interest of public safety. Council staff has erected fencing and signage at the bottom of the walkway at the base of the lookout. The carpark at the top end of Razorback Road remains open for use by the public. ‘Council acknowledges the site has great cultural significance to the local Aboriginal community and historical connections for many in the Tweed and southern Gold Coast community,’ Council’s Manager, Recreation Services, Stewart Brawley said. ‘Alternative lookouts are located at Point Danger, Kirra Hill and Greenmount. Council apologises for any inconvenience to residents and visitors.’ If you have further concerns about the closure, please call Stewart Brawley on (02) 6670 2400.
he said. ‘We know each unrestrained pet cat kills an average of 32 native animals a year, so we need cat owners to keep this in mind and help us protect our biodiversity. For tips on keeping kitty contentedly at home, visit cityofgoldcoast.com.au/cats
The Twin Towns & District Garden Club
THE Twin Towns & District Garden Club will hold its next meeting on the 11th of May at the Tweed Heads Civic Centre from 8.30am. Guest speaker will be Dan Willman from Rocky Point Mulching, who will speak on Fertilisers and potting mixes. The meeting will include benching, plant sales, raffles and lucky door prize. Entry is $3 with morning tea provided. Come along and meet other garden lovers. For more information, phone 07 5524 4339.
ROSCOS RUBBISH REMOVAL Residential General Household clean-ups Garden green waste
“Let us help you clean up, we do the work”
•clean ups • de-cluttering specialists • lawns cut and trees trimmed • furniture • unwanted goods and green waste removal • pick ups & deliveries • best and cheapest rates • DVA and Pensioner Discounts
LET US HELP YOU CLEAN UP Phone Anne 0410 136 223 www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
TRAVEL POSTCARDS Gold Coast
Travel for over 50s
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 31
Page 32 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
POSTCARDS
Gold Coast Seniors Newspaper
Travel for over 50s
RLQ tourist card RESIDENTS and travellers within regional and outback Queensland can become a member of a public library in the Rural Libraries Queensland (RLQ) network, for free. RLQ is a collaboration between local governments and the State Library of Queensland to provide high quality public library services across rural Queensland. RLQ public library membership is free to anyone who is residing or travelling within regional and outback Queensland. The library card enables members to borrow books and items from all RLQ libraries. Library cards must be shown each time an item is borrowed. Members can borrow up to four
items at a time for four weeks although limits apply to some collections. Library items can be returned to any RLQ library branch regardless of where they were borrowed. Most libraries have afterhours access chutes which can be used by members 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Register for your free library card at plconnect.slq.qld.gov.au/ forms/rlq-tourist-card and a card will be mailed to your home address or PO Box within five working days.
Get your head in the aClouds, nd IF you are seeking rejuvenation, reconnection and relaxation, then a cottage at Clouds of Montville delivers that promise. Set on 2.2 ha of beautiful and restful parklands overlooking the Sunshine Coast, the cottages and serviced apartments at Clouds give you peace in your soul and the chance to slow down, leave troubles behind and get lost in a rainforest. Clouds lies in the
just relax and rejuvenate
heart of the Sunshine Coast hinterland, renowned for brilliant shopping, vibrant markets, wonderful restaurants and fresh local food. The artistic heritage continues to flourish with world class artisans and galleries. Or if it’s shopping and food and fun times with family and friends, a selfcontained one-bedroom apartment with great coastal views or a ground floor studio apartment will serve you well. A new addition at Clouds is the
outdoor kitchen with barbecue, pizza oven and cafe bar to complement the Balinese-style dining pavilion, par 3 golf course and lawn bowls rink. Come up to the Clouds, just 2.5km south of Montville on the Balmoral Road between Montville and Maleny. Contact Phillip and St ephanie on 07 Stephanie 54 42 9 174 or visit 5442 91
STOP PRESS! A Cruise and Travel Experience Not to be Missed! • Home pick up Gold Coast • Flight Brisbane to Hong Kong • Arrival transfer to Kowloon hotel for 2 nights with continental breakfast, 18 night cruise of Legends of the Seas to Brisbane and transfer home.
Saturday 11th July 2015 QUEENSLAND GARDEN EXPO Go there by steam train to Nambour
Total $3958.00 pp
Tripaway Cruise & Travel Coolangatta Shop 45 The Strand Marine Parade Coolangatta QLD 4225
Call Janet on +61 (7) 5599 1510 Mob: 0413 214 554 E:
janet@tripaway.com.au
www.tripaway.com.au
*** Due to Airline regulations we are now required to put passport information into ALL international bookings. Passport details are not required to make a booking, but will be required prior to travel. Failure to provide these details may result in the airline refusing boarding. *** Travel insurance is strongly recommended by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for all overseas travel. As part of our commitment to safe air travel, we recommend you visit www.casa.gov.au. For up to date overseas travel information, we recommend you visit www.smartraveller.gov.au on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) website, or call toll free on 1300 139 281.
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
Sunday 26th July, 2015 GRANDCHESTER Celebrating 150 years of railways in Queensland UPCOMING TOURS TOOWOOMBA CARNIVAL OF FLOWERS Saturday 19th September 2015 Sunday 20th September 2015 Wednesday 23rd September 2015 “Book early as seats are limited”
SUNSHINE EXPRESS RAIL TOURS P.O. BOX 1119, TOOWONG, 4066 Phone 3252 1759 Fax 3252 1767 Australian Railway Historical Society Queensland Division ABN 74 009 767 579
May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 33
POSTCARDS
Gold Coast Seniors Newspaper
Travel for over 50s
Travel TALES How many yarns have you begun with ‘I remember once when we were in...’? We all have our favourite travel stories we love to share, especially the funny ones you can back up with a photo or two. Don’t just save them for family and friends. Send them in to us here at your favourite Seniors Newspaper and share with us. We’d love to hear all about your adventures or maybe a handy travel tip or two that will save fellow readers a lot of hassle. You can email them to us at editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au, with the heading Travel Tales and remembering to include your name, address and daytime phone number. Or post it to us at Travel Tales, Shop 2, 12 Project Avenue, Noosaville 4566. Don’t forget a stamped self-addressed envelope if you want your photos returned! All we ask is that you keep the story short and the photos be in high resolution.
Come on – we’re longing to hear those great travel tales.
Swimming in Antarctica without a Wetsuit
Casino Supermarket
Margaret and her husband are on the left
at Noumea, New On a recent cruise we called at the “Casino” Caledonia and went shopping et. Although there which is actually a supermark there were two were no Australian products, doorway to the stores Australian “animals” on the feel at home! sorting room, which made us
Maureen Lee
Day 6: Friday 5/1/01 Deception Island Antarctic Peninsula Deception Island is an active collapsed volcanic cone with the twisted remains of a Chilean whaling station destroyed by a volcanic eruption in the 1970s. The MV Marco Polo anchored in the bay and we went ashore in groups via Zodiac inflatables. The black cinder beach contrasted with the white snow. A group of chinstrap penguins welcomed us. After looking around it was time to swim. We took off our gum boots and balancing by leaning on plastic chairs brought from the ship, we stripped off: hats, gloves, red jackets, waterproof over pants, track suit pants, tights, woolen socks, jumper, t-shirt, singlet to our bathers. I wore plastic shoes as the cinders were razor sharp and difficult to walk on. We scrunched into the sea which was boiling hot in some parts and freezing cold in the rest. Fumeroles (volcanic vents) create the super-heated water. All I could do was sit down and waft the water around me trying to mix the hot and cold together. It was very shallow for several meters and there were about 10 adults floundering about trying to stay in the hot parts while keeping bodies under water as the air temperature was only 5 degrees. My feet were totally numb and my body was hot. Suddenly we heard the sound of a woman yelling: “Stop! Stop! Oh Harold do be sensible!” This was followed by a totally naked man running towards the sea yelling: “I’m 75 years old and nobody told me we could swim in Antarctica!”
Margaret Mourik
Handy apps SAFE TRAVELS
This is a non-profit app which helps you reach out and become the sight for a blind person helping them cope with basic tasks which we usually take for granted. With this app, you can become the sight for someone who cannot see. The app was developed by a visually impaired person in Denmark and connects such people to volunteers who can see via video chat from a phone camera. The sighted volunteer can “lend their eyes” to see the blind person’s environment and surroundings and answer their questions. (Free iOS app) Page 34 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
Gold Coast Seniors Newspaper
Shenzhen for Shopaholics
BY PHIL HAWKES
CONTEMPLATING a trip to Hong Kong? Well, there’s an extra attraction you should know about. It’s the city of Shenzhen, just across the border in China and it’s certainly worth an excursion for a very good reason. Shopping! We found getting there easy on the KCR train from Hong Kong in less than an hour. On arrival, we fill in a simple form, hand over a photo plus 168 RMB (about $28) and get an instant visa valid for 5 days. Then we sally forth into the scrum of humanity. At first it’s a bit
10
overwhelming, but with a sense of humour and the sniff of a bargain we make a pit stop at the nearby Shangri-La Hotel. Suitably refreshed, we hit the Lo Wu Commercial City (LWCC) across the road, ready for action. And action there is. Touts of every description offer to guide us to the “best”, the “cheapest”, the “highest quality”, the “real thing” and so on. But armed with introductions from the Shangri-La concierge, we forge our way through the labyrinth and find our first target…Lark International Tailors where Stephanie
presides. She helps us choose some rather beautiful Chinese silk and promises my wife delivery of a dress the next day. So the day passes. There are shops selling just about anything you can name, and some you can’t. We’re offered “genuine” brand name handbags, watches, pearls, jeans and casual wear, leather goods, electronic gadgets and widgets, branded spectacles (made with lenses to our prescriptions in just 2 hours), big name golf clubs…the list goes on. It’s a circus. And in the process we’re offered copies of everything except my wife. She’s a one-off, luckily. This shopping business is particularly exhausting for males who soon grow tired of looking at yet another pile of boxer shorts, so it’s back to the oasis of the Shangri-La and cocktail hour in the Horizon Club…a sort of recovery ward. There are plenty of dinner options in the hotel, and if you’re brave enough there are abundant local
restaurants and bars in the city to try. We had decided to spend a night in Shenzhen and pick up the goodies the next day. Lo and behold, the frock was ready on time as were our tailor-made shirts and blouses… all a perfect fit and well made. So on the afternoon of the second day, we bid farewell to LWCC and its jumbly-tumbly alleys and corridors and head for the train station just metres away. Laden with our modest treasures, we’re glad our friends in Hong Kong recommended this brief encounter with Mainland China. For us, Shenzhen and the LWCC
have been an eye-opener, particularly for the tailoring where we made savings enough to justify our trip expenses including a night in the hotel. As long as you’re hassle-proof, it’s a fun experience… it’s a small window to China if you haven’t been there before, and you can add considerably to your shopping trophies to impress your friends. And if you didn’t bring an extra suitcase, you’ll soon be offered “a real bargain” in the shape of a Salmonite bag. www.shangrila.com www.shenzhenshopper.com www.journeywoman.com
POSTCARDS Travel for over 50s
Seniors Brisbane Airport - Gold Coast/Tweed
Gold Coast Airport - Gold Coast/Tweed
Interesting TRAVEL FACTS that will make you want to travel
1. Travel can help improve your problem-solving skills. 2. Taking a vacation can lower your risk of heart disease. 3. Studies show that money spent on travel makes you happier than money spent on material goods. 4. Benefits of travel are almost immediate. After only a day or two, 89% of people experience significant drops in stress. 5. Travel has been shown to help aid those suffering from depression. 6. Travel has been shown to promote overall brain health. 7. Austrian citizens are said to have the most vacation time of any country. 8. France is the most visited country in the world. 9. And the most visited city in the world, as of 2013 data, is Bangkok. 10. Russia produces the most oxygen in the world.
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 35
Page 36 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
POSTCARDS
Gold Coast Seniors Newspaper
Travel for over 50s
Mega Cruising ALLAN BLACKBURN
lifts, over 20 pools and spas, large kids’ CRUISING ships come in entertainment areas, a many shapes and sizes, special place for most are really teenagers and a retreat enjoyable. However, if exclusively for adults. you want a cruise that is The sports deck features exceptional, you need to a full-sized basketball try one of the mega court, mini-golf, table cruise ships. The Royal tennis area, two flow Caribbean line has one riders, a zip line and of the biggest, Oasis of there is even an ice the Seas. This is a huge skating rink. A huge ship at over 225,000 fitness centre has every tonnes, and it carries kind of gym machine over 6,300 passengers imaginable. and 2,350 crew. The superlatives Comparing Oasis of the continue. One deck has Seas to a normal cruise Central Park which is a ship is like comparing a proper garden, complete standard hotel to a Las with full-sized trees and Vegas casino. The Oasis countless shrubs and is over-the-top in every flowers. It even has department. It has 16 resident live butterflies. decks, taller than many Two walls are covered in city structures. Most vertical gardens. It is a shopping centres would real retreat, away from love to have a mall as big the hustle of the busy as the one on Oasis. The areas. ship has 24 eateries, The stern deck has a anchored by three large Boardwalk which formal dining rooms. focuses on a carnival There are 20 bars and theme, with carousels, lounges, 24 high-speed clowns, face painters,
balloon artists and two five-storey high rockclimbing walls. The Aqua Theatre is the venue for the water shows. An amazing fountain display and three levels of diving platforms feature in the shows. The pool is the deepest on any ship, at 5.9 metres. There are so many entertainment venues that none are crowded, although some are filled on a first come, first served basis. Numerous live acts are repeated daily so that everyone has a chance to see them. The main theatre seats over 1300 people. The ship has a resident Broadway musical which runs for five years. Recently it was Hairspray but is about to change to Grease. Comedy shows, game shows, bingo, trivia, gambling in the casino, card games, craft classes, sports tournaments and
dancing continue through the day and into the small hours. On every cruise the food is a highlight. This is certainly the case on the Oasis. If the cuisine in the three main dining rooms is not to your fancy, you can opt for one of the specialty restaurants, or maybe go for a pizza or to one of the bistros where you can eat as much as you want as often as you want. The choice is astounding and would satisfy even the most fastidious eater. The ship is so large that its movement is barely discernable, even in rough seas. Hence, seasickness is not a problem. Disembarking for shore excursions is a streamlined event that is efficient and fast. The whole ship is cashless. Your Seapass card works as a stateroom key and as a credit card for all onboard purchases.
All aboard for the Garden Expo
THE Australian Railway Historical Society will be running a steam train tour to the Queensland Garden Expo at Nambour on Saturday 11th July 2015. Our train will depart from Roma Street Station, with convenient stops picking up passengers at Northgate, Lawnton and Caboolture along the way. The train passes the spectacular Glass House Mountains and travels through pineapple paddocks, citrus orchards as well as areas of virgin scrub. On arrival at Nambour Station, coaches will transfer passengers between Nambour Station and the Expo site. Alternatively, as the train will be doing a local run from Nambour to Yandina and return, you may choose to stay on board the train for this shuttle and then enjoy some free time in Nambour. 2015 marks 150 years since Queensland’s first train ran between Ipswich and Grandchester. To mark this memorable occasion the Society will be running a Steam Train from Brisbane to Grandchester and return on Sunday 26th July 2015. Many exhibits from a bygone era will be open for inspection at Grandchester, such as static and working displays of old machinery, vintage cars, trucks and tractors, blacksmithing, wheelwright, heavy horse work, shearing, wool spinning and quilting. www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
Shore excursions are available when the ship docks in such exotic destinations as the Bahamas, Jamaica, Haiti, Grand Caymans, St Maarten’s or Cozumel in Mexico. Arrivals are timed to give passengers maximum daylight hours on shore and the activities on offer are as many and varied as those on the ship itself. Are there any negatives? Well maybe one. Since the ship is essentially American, tipping is virtually mandatory. In fact, unless you pre-pay the tips, the company debits your account at least $12 per person per day, more if you are in a suite. Most on-board purchases also attract a 15% automatic tip, then they offer you the chance to add an extra tip! To Aussies, this may be
slightly off-putting, but if it is budgeted in to the total, it is not so bad. All up, the Oasis of the Seas offers an
unforgettable experience, one you are unlikely to regret. You will certainly be talking about it for a long time.
Pensioners/Senior Citizens
VISIT GRAFTON IN NORTHERN NSW Enjoy a GREAT HOLIDAY PACKAGE
HILLDROP HILLDROP
MOTOR MOTOR INN INN
GRAFTON GRAFTON
$529pp
Twin Share single supplement
Includes:
5 x nights accom 5 x hot b/fasts & 5 x hot dinners 3 x morning teas 2 x afternoon teas PLUS 4x fabulous scenic bus tours
$100 PHONE NOW FOR FREE BROCHURE 1800 622 355 Email: info@hilldrop.com.au Website: www.hilldrop.com.au or write to: Hilldrop Motor Inn PO Box 126, Sth Grafton 2460
“Grafton is easily reached via car on the Pacific Highway or, if you travel via coach/rail we provide courtesy transfers”
In September 2015, the Australian Railway Historical Society will be running their annual Carnival of Flowers Tours on Saturday 19 th September and Sunday 20th September. Board a Steam Train at Roma Street Station to travel to Toowoomba where a coach will transport you around a couple of the prize-winning gardens. The coach drops you at Helidon station to rejoin the steam train for Brisbane. A similar excursion on Wednesday 23rd September will be worked with a 2000 class railcar. For detailed brochures and bookings please contact the Australian Railway Historical Society Queensland Division on 07 3252 1759, email tours@arhsqld.org.au , or visit our website at www.arhsqld.org.au/sunshine-express-rail-tours
Magical Montville & Maleny ..................... 17 May Robotic Dairy & 4Real Milk ..................... 26 May Qld Transport Museum & Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre ................. 16 Jun Eumundi Markets & Ginger Factory .......... 27 Jun Queensland Garden Expo ......................... 10 Jul Christmas in July Tranquil Park .................. 15 Jul
Our 2015 Tour Brochure available NOW! Please phone Jan to make sure you receive your copy
May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 37
POSTCARDS Travel for over 50s
ATTENTION ALL COACH TRAVELLERS OUTBACK QLD EXPLORER LONGREACH – WINTON – AUST AGE OF DISOSAURS – CHARLEVILLE COSMOS CENTRE – EMERALD – ROMA – BLACKALL
$1,799.00 – 9 DAYS – 21st-29 June Fare Includes: Good Motels – Breakfasts & Dinners Admissions: Charleville Cosmos Centre, Age of Dinosaurs, Longreach Hall of HOME PICK UP AND RETURN: Sunshine Coast Area, Caboolture, Redcliffe, Brisbane Metro, Redlands, Gold Coast, Tweed Heads, Banora Pt, Kingscliff.
CAIRNS & TROPICAL NORTH QLD WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS, PORT DOUGLAS, KURANDA, DAINTREE, MAGNETIC ISLAND 13 Days 18th - 30th July $2199 Includes: Good Motels, Breakfasts & Dinners, One Morning Tea, Admissions: Sky Rail or TravelTrain to Kuranda, Daintree Rainforest River Cruise, Port Douglas Tour, Boat Cruise - Two Island Cruise (Hamilton and Daydream Island), Townsville Tour, Magnetic Island, Paronalla Park, Mackay, Rockhampton, Airlie Beach, Bundaberg. HOME PICKUP AND RETURN: Sunshine Coast, Caboolture, Redcliffe, Brisbane Area, Redlands, Gold Coast, Tweed Heads, Banora Point, Kingscliff. Sunshine Coast, Caboolture, Redcliffe, Brisbane Metro Area, Redlands, Gold Coast, Tweed Heads, Banora Pt, Kingscliff Will mail Itinerary on all tours, Please Phone Sunshine Coast / Brisbane: 3343 6722 - Gold Coast: 5520 1499
Coastal Variety Tours
Page 38 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
Gold Coast Seniors Newspaper
A breath of fresh air…
FOR those looking for new experiences when river cruising in Europe, in 2016 Avalon Waterways will have new ships, new itineraries and new destinations, including two new cruises into Belgium on the Meuse River. There’s the 8-day ‘Essential Holland and Belgium’ itinerary which begins in Amsterdam and visits Rotterdam and the windmills of Kinderdijk before travelling to the grandest cities in Belgium including Ghent, Antwerp and Brussels. Pay your respects during the 9-day ‘Enchanting Belgium’ cruise from Amsterdam which visits the battlefields of Ypres as well as the picturesque riverside city of Namur. To mark the launch of the new program, Avalon Waterways is offering discounts until 30 June 2015 of up to 15 per cent off 2016 river cruises in France and up to 10 per
cent off all other 2016 European river cruises. A French itinerary that’s bound to be popular amidst the interest in this year’s Anzac commemorations is the 8-day ‘Paris to Normandy’s Landing Beaches’ cruise. Avalon has also announced two new Suite Ships to be launched in 2016. Avalon’s river cruise fleet is the most modern in Europe with an average age of just over three years, and the smaller Suite Ships visit towns and waterways that are out of reach to larger vessels. Avalon Waterways Managing Director Australasia Stewart Williams said the new ships and Belgian itineraries were a reflection of Avalon’s innovation over recent years. “Avalon Waterways revolutionised river cruising with the launch of
its first Suite Ship in 2011, giving passengers more space, better views and a contemporary style,” Mr Williams said. “The concept has been a huge success, particularly among Australians, so we’re expanding it further and introducing new destinations in response.” Avalon’s stylish Suite Ships offer 30 per cent
more cabin space than the industry average, with wall-to-wall panoramic windows that open to provide an open-air balcony or close to create an intimate lounge area. Clever suite design means beds face the views instead of the wall, while smaller capacity allows a more intimate and uncrowded style of travel.
Contact yyour our local TTra ra ravveller ellerss Choice consultant today on 1300 78 78 58 or visit www.travellerschoice.com.au to enjoy a breath of fresh air cruising Europe’s rivers with Avalon Waterways.
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
‘Let Us Entertain You’ . . . New exhibition at Tweed Regional Gallery A FASCINATING new exhibition at Tweed Regional Gallery will present strikingly different perspectives on what constitutes Indigenous contemporary art. The World Is Not a Foreign Land is an Ian Potter Museum of Art and NETS Victoria touring exhibition curated by Quentin Sprague and will be on display at the Gallery from 17th April to 14th June. Bringing together work by Indigenous artists Timothy Cook, Djambawa Marawili, Ngarra, Rusty Peters, Freda Warlapinni and Nyapanyapa Yunupingu, the exhibition crosses three geographically and culturally distinct regions: the Tiwi Islands, the Kimberley
and North-eastern Arnhem Land. Exhibition curator Quentin Sprague said he travelled widely while researching the exhibition. ‘This exhibition brings together a group of artists whose work highlights new ways of thinking in between the different regions, cultural groups or art histories within which each artist lives and works,’ he said. ‘In this sense, it’s about highlighting new relationships, whether formal, material or poetic, which activate areas of overlap, resonance and even contradiction.’ The Gallery and cafe is open from Wednesday to Sunday 10am5pm.
Monster Machinery Day – not just for the blokes! GOLD Coast City Council is offering you the chance to check out everything that digs, scoops, cleans and beeps at the 12th annual City of Gold Coast Monster Machinery Day. This year it will be held on Sunday 31st May between 9am and 2pm at the Broadwater Parklands Precinct, Marine Parade, Southport, opposite Broadwater Parklands tram station. Parking is also available within Southport and Australia Fair. The hugely successful event showcases the extensive array of vehicles, trucks and machines that the City of Gold Coast Council uses to provide essential services. This action-packed family fun day allows kids and adults alike to get up close and hands-on with the City’s
fleet of equipment, see them in action and meet the behind the scenes operators. The day also raises awareness and educates the community about what goes into building and maintaining our great city. More than 30 City vehicles will be on show, including excavators, graders, loaders, tip trucks, road sweepers, beach tractors, water vehicles and more. And it’s not just for blokes with a love of big toys! Non-stop entertainment will include vehicle demonstrations, stage shows, rides, food stalls and interactive games with great prizes and giveaways on offer for all ages. For further information, please contact Nicole van Leeuwestyn on 5581 7461 or email nvanleeuwestyn@goldcoast.qld.gov.au
The Gold Coast City Brass Band needs new members IF you are a brass player, or percussionist, you are invited to join our band to enjoy weekly rehearsals, performances and comradeship. The Band is a volunteer, community based, not for profit organization that has proudly served the Gold Coast since 1902. We play a variety of brass band music (both modern and traditional) and perform at events such as Australia Day Citizenship Awards, Anzac Day Parades, the Gold Coast Moncrief Community Awards, and many other community events including a variety of
concerts, workshops and, of course, Community Christmas Carols. It is a friendly atmosphere and people of all ages and playing abilities are welcome.Why not come along for a few weeks to see if you enjoy it? Instruments are available for hire at extremely reasonable rates. We rehearse on Wednesday evenings at 7.30pm at 12 Mick Veivers Way, Southport, Queensland 4215. Phone Ruth on 1300 731 345 or see our web page for more information http:// www.goldcoastcitybrassband.com
Northern Gold Coast Variety Shows UPPER Coomera Centre, 1st Wednesday at 10am-12pm, 90 Reserve Rd, Upper Coomera. Runaway Bay Youth Centre, 3rd Wednesday at 10am-12pm, 379 Oxley Drive, Runaway Bay. Helensvale Cultural Centre, 4th Wednesday at 10am-12pm, 62 Sir John Overall Drive, Helensvale. Featuring Special Guest Artists, singalongs and prizes. All shows are $5. For Catering purposes, please call us
to RSVP on 07 5582 9327 or email us UpperCoomera Centre@gold coast.qld.gov.au and then pay $5 per person at the door. Includes: Show, morning tea and lucky door prizes. To find out more about our upcoming Community days, contact the Upper Coomera Centre on 07 5582 9327 or visit http://www.goldcoast. qld.gov.au/community for details and updates.
Bittersweet search for comfort JAVEENBAH Theatre next production is Rabbit Hole by David LindsayAbaire Winner 2007 Pulitzer Prize. This play is a beautifully crafted drama laced with insightfulness, compassion & searing honesty. A young couple embark on a bittersweet search for comfort in the darkest of places looking for a path that will lead them into the light of day. Come along & www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
see this thoroughly absorbing play. Opening Night Saturday 16th May at 8pm, $25 incl supper no discount or on Sunday 17th May at 2pm. Also, Thursday 21st, Friday 22nd, Saturday 23rd May at 8pm and Thursday 28th, Friday 29th, Saturday 30th May at 8pm at the Javeenbah Theatre, Cnr Stevens & Ferry Streets, Nerang. Phone or e-mail me on 0403 810 940 or taurus28@optusnet.com.au May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 39
‘Let Us Entertain You’ . . . Editorial copy is always welcome. Deadline for the June edition of Gold Coast/Tweed Seniors Newspaper is 27th May, 2015
Free Seniors Screening ‘THE Water Diviner’ on Thursday, June 18 th at 10.30am, Auditorium, Robina Community Centre. Four years after the battle of Gallipoli, his wife Eliza begs him to bring back their sons. Aussie father of three, Connor, travels to Turkey to search for them, or their remains. En route, he encounters Turkish war widow Ayshe and Turkish Major Hasan, both of whom are surprisingly helpful. Not so helpful is British Captain Charles Brindley. Inspired by a true story. Drama/ War, Rated M, 110 minutes, starring: Russell Crowe, Olga Kurylenko and Cem Yilmaz.
Aged Care residents celebrate St Patrick’s Day
LAST month, our Assisted Living residents took great delight in celebrating St Patrick’s Day. Magnolia Aged Care Living’s
Brain Training Answers From page 43
Lodge was transformed into an Irish themed display of fun and activities with green streamers, shamrocks and leprechaun hats.
Crossword Answers From page 42
Mind the Gap: 1. Pin 2. Wag 3. Ado 4. Hen 5. Cub Add Up: 47 Mini Fit: Pay Sip Veto
Residents enjoyed a lovely home-style cooked Irish stew followed by scrumptious stuffed green apples for dessert. With lots of Irish tunes enjoyed and ditties sung, the Lodge was a very jovial place to be. The finale of the day was a Best Dressed Parade with Marjorie, June, Betty and Jo strutting their stuff on the catwalk. It was an extremely hard decision to make, but Marjorie and June were crowned our winners on the day. Well done ladies!
10
$
LUNCHES
7 Days a Week Conditions Apply
BISTRO New Trading Hours 11.30-3.00pm & 5.30-9.00pm LINDFIELD RD
NEW MENU Page 40 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
SIR JOHN OVERALL DR
WE ARE HERE
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
FREE 4 SALE
‘Let Us Entertain You’ . . .
CLASSIFIEDS
Was she your favourite Miss Marple?
IN Agatha Christie’s words, ‘Miss Marple’ was born at the age of about sixty five or seventy years old, which as it turned out was unfortunate, because of her immense popularity, she had to last a very long time. Her debut in the short story ‘The Tuesday Night Club’ published in Royal Magazine USA in1927, became a great success with readers asking for more and the planned six short stories became to be twelve, much to Agatha Christies delight. Also in this initial short story, Miss Marples nephew Raymond West, was introduced. This was two years before her first appearance in a full length novel ‘Murder at the Vicarage’ published in 1930. Geraldine took over the role in 2004, this was already a character that was so different to Poiret but who also became loved by Christie fans around the world ‘Like some ones favourite Aunt’. Already portrayed by other actresses such as Margaret Rutherford, Gracie Fields, Angela Landsbury and Joan Hickson to name a few. Showing her versatility as an actor, Geraldine recreated Miss Marple as a markedly different female detective, in contrast her sleuth fizzed with impish glee, seeking to make her presence felt with the local constabulary, who dismissed her
vagueness, her outlandish improbable suggestions but when these ‘clues’ became ‘facts’. Those in authority were gracious in their praise of her, though never really understanding how she knew. When she retired from the roll in 2007, she passed on the knitting needles, summer hat and spectacles to Julia McKenzie. The series ended in 2013. She enjoyed an acting career that spanned six decades, on stage, film and television and including two best actress awards for ‘The Rivals’ and ‘The Way of the World’, 1983 and 1995. Television brought her art to the wider public and again
Moonlight Serenade A Musical Revue Devised and directed by Gai Byrne Assisted by Chris Hawkins Produced by Tugun Theatre Company Vocal director Lynne Campbell Choreographer Tracey [Fleur] Lord. Tugun Theatre Company is dedicating the show to the memory of Allan Grant. The revue is set in the 1930’s to the early 1950’s with music and songs from these decades. The revue opens on Thursday 14th May at the Tugun Village Community Centre, 414 Coolangatta Road, Tugun, with the show beginning at 7.30pm. The season runs for three weeks with evening performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturday until the 30th May 2015. On Saturday the 16th and 23rd of May only there are matinees which begin at 2.00pm. For the evening performances the doors at the theatre open at 6.30pm. The opening night, the 14 of May, will be a special occasion and supper will be provided after the show, as well as the usual champagne. The cost for this one night will be $20.00, with no concession reductions and no complimentary tickets can be used. th
Patrons are encouraged to wear either evening dress or an outfit suitable for the 1940s - enjoy the dressing up. Bookings for the season can be made with Mandy on
she starred as Jeanette Winterton’s fictionalised mother in ‘Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit’ 1990. She loved challenging roles and won a Best Actress BAFTA Award in the USA for her “chillingly convincing” roll as the Pentecostal evangelist who relentlessly steers her daughter (Charlotte
Coleman) away from the breeding grounds of sin. Geraldine McEwan married Hugh Ruttwell in 1953 whom she met as a teenager. Cruttwell was the principal of RADA from 1965 to 1984. He passed away in 2002. Geraldine McEwan is survived by her son and daughter. © Sue Rains 2015
Fun with word play
BIKE men’s boulder size 21-L colour blue/ black plus razor helmet white/red as new $150 pickup. phone 0419 799 334 Benowa. BRAND NEW white line lawn bowls size 4, blue yellow speckle. Made in Scotland. Logo bulldog. $250 phone after 6pm 02 6674 5330 or 0431 306 192 Kingscliff. QUICKIE2 manual wheelchair, opal/blue colour, 19"width, 16" depth, 6"caster wheels, 24"solid tyres, natural fit hand rims, jay 3 back with head rest, seat cushion included, does disassemble, valued at $3000 sell $390. ph 0422 762 027 Banora Point. TAURUS scroll saw unwanted gift, never used $80. Ph 5530 5089 Mudgeeraba. TIMBER extension ladder 2.4m to 4.8m, good condition $35 phone 5596 0785 Nerang. GARDENING books, big variety, good prices. Ph 5596 0785 Nerang
117 LITRE BAR FRIDGE as new, bought in December 2014 $150. Ph 0435 055 227 Biggera Waters REGENCY MAHOGANY DINING ROOM CHAIRS six at $45 each ONO Ph 5592 4425 Broadbeach Waters 4PLY CROCHET/KNITTING COTTONS 27 full balls, 24 approx. ¾ full, 20 less than ¾ full, all in multitude of plain and variegated colours. Will sell the lot for $60 ONO Ph 0415 562 628 Runaway Bay LAWN BOWLS Henselite size 2, good condition $40. Banora Point ANZAC 100 YEAR ANNIVERSARY CD songs the soldier sang with lyrics $25 posted. Great gift. Ph 5573 1475 WHEELCHAIR folds up, not manual, good cond. $200 Ph 5594 6730 Labrador
LIFTCHAIR Pride C1 Ladies, as new, warranty $280, save $700 on new price. Absolute bargain. Ph 0428 753 318 Mermaid Waters FOUR COLONIAL STYLE CHAIRS made from European birch walnut colour in very good condition. $60 Ph 5524 4521 Tweed Heads South PORTABLE ELECTRIC SEWING MACHINE Bernette, good working order, complete with tools etc. $40 Ph 5576 0808 Burleigh Waters SUNBEAM BAKE AND GRILL OVEN never used, still in the box $75 Ph 5576 2416 TABLE solid dark brown wood, unscrewable legs. 1 metre square, 800cm tall VGC $80 Ph 0400 525 577 Varsity Lakes
FREE 4 Sale Classifieds
THE Washington Post’s Mensa Invitational once again invited readers to take any word from the dictionary, alter it by adding, subtracting or changing one letter, and supply a Only ONE FREE FOR SALE classified is allowed per person per month. No other new definition. sorts of Classifieds, ie: Wanted adverts will not be accepted. The publisher reserves Here are some of the winners: the right to decline, edit and reduce the number of classifieds appearing due to space Cashtration (n.): The act of buying a house, available in the newspaper. Due to these space constraints sometimes not all adverts which renders the subject financially impotent will appear in the one month, but may be placed in the following month. for an indefinite period of time. Intaxicaton: Euphoria at getting a tax refund, You can write up to 20 words per advert, but make sure that your contact phone which lasts until you realise it was your money number, location and the selling price are clearly stated. to start with. Items for sale must not exceed $500. Reintarnation: Coming back to life as a hillbilly. Conditions apply: Free For Sale classifieds are for private party advertising only. Bozone (n): The substance surrounding stupid No business adverts accepted. Please print the first word of your classified in people, stopping bright ideas from penetratCAPITALS, and the rest of the advert should be in lower case. All adverts must be ing. The bozone layer, unfortunately, shows accompanied by the name, address and phone number of the person placing the little sign of breaking down in the near future. advertising. Giraffiti: Vandalism spray-painted very, very Please submit FREE classifieds only by post, fax or email to our office. high. (No adverts will be accepted over the telephone.) Sarchasm: The gulf between the author of Wanted items are no longer accepted. sarcastic wit and the person who doesn’t get it. POST your adverts to: ‘GCT Free 4 Sale,’ Gold Coast/Tweed Seniors Newspaper, Inoculatte: To take coffee intravenously when Shop 2/12 Project Avenue, Noosaville 4566 you are running late. FAX adverts to: 5474 4975 Decafalon (n): The gruelling event of getting EMAIL: free4sale@seniorsnewspaper.com.au (All emailed adverts must be in lower through the day consuming only things that case, except for the first word, which should be in capitals.) are good for you. Arachnoleptic Fit (n.): The frantic dance performed just after you’ve accidentally walked through a spider web. Beelzebug (n): Satan in the form of a mosquito, that gets 8mm Film into your bedroom at three in the Transfers morning and cannot be cast out. Caterpallor (n): The colour you turn after Pickup & Delivery finding half a worm Must present this in the fruit you’re Coupon eating. www.FilmCopyCentre.com Valid till 31-05-15
Transfer 8mm Films to DVD
• • • •
15% OFF
Super and Standard 8 Films to DVD Slides and Photos to DVD Camera/Video Tapes to DVD LP Records & Audio Cassettes to CD
FREE
PH 1300 730 430 or 0412 757 144
07 5522 4740 www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 41
community news Straight Clues
Seniors Twospeed Crossword
Cryptic Clues ACROSS
ACROSS
1 Pulls apart small girl’s cloaks 6 Tending to make peace in huge body of water 9 Left later, becoming higher in stature 10 Herb called an incompetent fool 12 Gives a second opinion on amendments to document about bad cones 14 Seem to be different for a girl 17 Some stop pleading in fall from grace 19 Most expensive but best loved 20 Dreamt ties became badly handled in anger
1 Pulls to pieces 6 An ocean 9 Higher 10 Common fool 12 Thinks over again 14 Girl’s name 17 Fall over 19 Most loved 20 Was cruel to
DOWN 1 Awry 2 Earth 3 Close 4 Put in place 5 Ship’s canvas 6 Small coin 7 Rasping implement 8 Gathered together 11 Airman 13 Unnatural sleep 15 Appear 16 Goes wrong 17 Russian ruler 18 Silly person
DOWN 1 Twisted out of shape single wrongful act passed on outside 2 In this way one left some earth
Auspac Media - Answers on Page 40
3 Not far from normal listener 4 Put in position with learner to help 5 Masai lands showing pass by sea 6 Write to US city for a little girl 7 Keep on record about life 8 Being bunched together resulted in change after clan leader
11 One who navigates plenty following private investigator 13 Unconscious state, starting coagulation of many arteries 15 Appear to look over me first 16 Makes a mistake with directions about rights 17 Star material for former supreme ruler 18 Small pair attending a foolish person
Word Trivia The plural of mouse, the rodent, is mice. The plural of mouse, the computer hardware device, is mouses. Other unusually pluralised words are brother, which may be pluralised to brothers but also brethren; cherub, which is pluralised to cherubim; die, which is pluralised to dice; formula, which may be pluralised to formulas but also formulae.
Moonlight Serenade - A Musical Revue THE revue is devised and directed by Gai Byrne, with the assistance of Chris Hawkins, and pro-
duced by Tugun Theatre Company. The vocal director is Lynne Campbell and the choreographer
Available Sunday to Thursday this MAY
Tracey (Fleur) Lord. Moonlight Serenade is a musical revue in the style of the late Allan Grant’s productions, in which Gai was a singer and a dancer. Tugun Theatre Company is dedicating the show to his memory. The revue is set in the 1930’s to the early 1950’s with music and songs from these decades. Many of you will remember this music and have enjoyed it when you were younger, and may still enjoy listening to this style of music. The show begins with a celebration of the Moon in song and then moves on to a tribute to the crooners, such as Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra and Bobby Darin. Next comes
a tribute to the war years with music from Glenn Miller and songs made famous by artists such as Vera Lynn and the Andrews Sisters. In the second half there are tributes to some of the major song writers of this period. There are numbers written Cole Porter, George and Ira Gershwin and Irvine Berlin. These tributes are full of well know songs, including such classics as “Anything Goes” and “Summertime” that are still sung on a regular basis in shows more than half a century on from their original presentation. Throughout the show there are lavish, beautifully costumed, dance
FUNERAL SERVICE
TOTAL PRICE $335 per couple
TOTAL PRICE $395 per couple
FABULOUS BONUS Morning or Afternoon Tea at the beautiful Secrets By The Lake overlooking Baroon Pocket Dam
numbers to enjoy, as well as a rather saucy number danced by the choreographer of the show. There are also a series of comedy skits between the various parts of the show to give you a laugh. There is an amazing array of props and in particular a large and impressive creation in our war year’s segment that took more than a hundred hours to create. It was designed and built by Mark Randall and Trevor Neve and is a sight to behold. The revue opens on Thursday 14th May at the Tugun Village Community Centre, 414 Coolangatta Road, Tugun, with the show beginning at 7.30pm. The
Why pay too much . . . ? For a loving farewell not an expensive one . . . price from $4,500 includes: • Transfer of deceased • Quality coffin • Chapel service • Celebrant / Minister • Cremation
• Doctors certificate • Memorial book • Floral Tribute • Death Certificate Pre-arranged funeral plans available from $2000
Phone 1300 311 747 All areas Brisbane & GC www.cremationsonly.com.au Page 42 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
season then runs for three weeks with evening performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturday until the 30th May 2015. On Saturday the 16th and 23rd of May only there are matinees which begin at 2.00pm. For the evening performances the doors at the theatre open at 6.30pm. This time will be adhered to as the cast will be doing their vocal warmups prior to 6.30pm. The opening night, the 14th of May, will be a special occasion and supper will be provided after the show, as well as the usual champagne. The cost for this one night will be $20.00, with no concession reductions and no complimentary tickets can be used. It is $20.00 for everyone who comes along. Those patrons
who do come to the opening night are encouraged to wear either evening dress or an outfit suitable for the 1940s - enjoy the dressing up. Bookings for the season can be made with Mandy on 07 5522 4740. Please call her between 8.30am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday. If outside these hours you will get the answering machine, but Mandy will deal with your bookings as soon as possible. Please leave a clear message about your booking and your call back details. This is a very enjoyable and nostalgic program for our theatre goers to relish. On the way home you may find yourself humming or singing some of these long time favourites. A show worth seeing and experiencing.
Care & Support Services Home & Community Care – HACC Program Ph: 1800 052 222 Program assists people who are frail aged or younger people with disabilities to stay in their homes Deaf Services Qld Helpline Ph: 1800 645 916 Support provided to people (& their families) who are deaf or who have hearing impairment Council on the Ageing Infolink – COTA Ph: 1300 738 348 COTA assists to find services and information to assist with informed decision making about well being and lifestyle choices Disability Information Service Ph: 1800 177 120 Provides information and referral service for people with disabilities Citizens Advice Bureau & Gold Coast Legal Service Ph: 5532 9611 Free confidential legal advice www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
community news One big cultural feast at Chinatown Street Markets A REGULAR Asian-inspired street food market is bringing our evolving Chinatown to life. The market will take place on the first Saturday of each month, with a special feature attraction at each market, including martial arts, live music and cooking demonstrations. From 4pm -10pm, you can browse a range of food vendors serving delicious cuisine from China, Thailand, Japan, Korea, Vietnam and the Philippines. Cr Dawn Crichlow said the street markets would serve as a major attraction for both visitors and residents. “Gold Coast Chinatown is still progressing and is an integral part of the revitalisation of Southport as an international CBD for the Gold Coast,” she said. “These food markets will bring people together, help celebrate our diversity, create jobs for local food vendors and I’m hoping they will become a new and popular attraction on the Gold Coast.” Local shops and restaurants will extend their trading hours during market times. Merchandise stalls and live entertainment will rotate monthly to invigorate the culture, creativity and energy of Gold Coast Chinatown. Dan McNeight,
of Dan’s Dim Sim Kitchen, will be offering his chicken, prawn and pork dim sims, along with his award-winning cheese and bacon dim sim skewers. “Our street food business has been running for 14 months and it’s going so well we’re opening a shop in Southport at the end of May,” he said. Edwin and Pipin Salazar, owners of The Filipino Shop - a specialty grocer and caterer located in Chinatown - will be introducing popular Filipino street food, a relatively new product on the Gold Coast. “We will be serving the ‘must try’ charcoal grilled pork belly barbecue (skewers), lechon (roasted pig on a spit), kakanin (native delicacies) and ‘dare you try’ balut (hard boiled fertilised duck egg),” said Mr Salazar. Another stall holder is Kate Wichaidith, who runs Pho Express, a Thai/Vietnamese food restaurant in Southport Central, soon to be renamed Summer and Spices. “I’ll be serving fresh rice paper rolls and Thai dishes made from scratch like chilli and lemongrass stir fry,” she said. The dates of the next two markets are 6th June and 4 July. Chinatown is at Young and Davenport Streets, Southport.
They bred ‘em tough in the old days
THESE household remedies were taken from the 1901 edition of The Housewife’s Friend, a recipe book compiled by the Grafton (NSW) Cathedral to pay off the debt on their hall. Hair Restorer: Into an earthenware jar put quarter of a pint of fresh oil of sweet almonds. Set it into a vessel of boiling water. Gradually melt it by that heat. Add a quarter of an ounce of spermacetti and 1 ounce of purified beef marrow. When cold dry up gradually with it as much tincture of cantharides as it will absorb. Add whatever perfume is desired when it is cold.
Rheumatism: Rub the part affected with raw chillies. Another cure: Hot fomentations, then gently rub in warm castor oil (every household had that evil brew in its distinctive blue bottle). Indigestion cure (good – their words!): 1 egg, 1 tablespoon chilli vinegar, a little pepper and salt. Break the egg out of shell, taking care to keep yolk whole, then add other ingredients and swallow altogether. If not successful with one dose, repeat in 2 hours. Bet nobody admitted to lack of success! Either people were tougher then or more desperate!
African Children’s Choir ‘Under one Sky’ at Twin Towns TWIN Towns presents the African Children’s Choir - Under One Sky Tour Morning show on Thursday 11 June 2015 @ 11am; Tickets $12 (60 minute show) Evening show Saturday 13 June 2015 @ 7.30pm; Tickets $25 Adults; $20 children Bookings www.twintowns.com.au or 1800 014 014 Following a sell-out tour in 2013, the Uganda-based choir returns to Australia for the second time. A group of 18 orphaned children from Uganda’s disadvantaged areas of Kampala and Luwero are brimming with excitement about their long-awaited trip down under. The vibrancy and outstanding musical and dancing abilities of the African Children’s Choir captured the world’s imagination when they first started touring 30 years ago. Every year since, the choir has toured North America and Europe to raise money for children in their homeland. Through international sponsorships and fundraising, many choir members have completed university educations, some returning to their communities as lawyers and doctors. In June 2015, nine Northern New South Wales families will host the group of 18 children and eight adults when the Choir visits the region for two shows at Twin Towns. Gold Coaster Marsha Gusti, President of Kwaya Australia Inc, says she is extremely proud and excited to be joining the Choir for its second Australian tour. “When I first went to Uganda, I thought that as Australians, we have everything. I came home with a whole new definition of what ‘everything’
really is,” she said. “These people have a real joy in their heart despite the fact that materialistically, they have nothing. Many of these kids have lost family members, including one or more of their parents or siblings. “But they never fail to bring happiness and elation to all who see them perform.” When they join their Northern Rivers families for a three day stay, Marsha says organisers have set some rules that all hosts must adhere to. “We have a ‘no screen policy’ in the homes where they stay – no TV, computers, video games, mobile phones. “Initially, the host families look at me wide-eyed and open mouthed, aghast, and I know they are thinking ‘What are we going to do?” “We ask this for two reasons. One, the kids don’t have luxuries like technology so we believe while they are touring, it is not a good idea for them to get accustomed to something they won’t have when they get home. “The second reason is we want these families to share a real cultural experience with the children; we want them
to sit around the table, have meals together, play a board game, go outside for a game of cricket. “Already many of the host families are planning to ensure the kids get to see some of our native wildlife, experience our beaches, go fishing or bushwalking. During the Twin Towns concert, the African Children’s Choir will perform songs in both English and Ugandan. The concert also includes drumming and dancing. The African Children’s Choir will
perform two shows at Twin Towns, a morning performance on Wednesday 10 June and an evening show on Saturday 13 June. The African Children’s Choir arrives in Australia on 4 April and will perform 15 concerts across the east coast of Australia, including the Twin Towns shows. One hundred percent of all money raised through the African Children’s Choir tour will go towards their latest project: a new choir academy in Uganda.
Who do you call… Seniors Card 137 468 or 1800 175 500 (free call outside Brisbane) Centrelink: Retirement 132 300 Disability, Sickness & Carers 132 717 Employment Services 132 850 Seniors Enquiry Line 1300 135 500 Department of Veteran Affairs 133 254 or 1800 555 254 (Regional) National Information Centre on Retirement Investments (NICRI) 1800 020 110 National Aged Care Information 1800 200 422 www.agedcareaustralia.gov.au
A new place to call home Situated on the beautiful Sunshine Coast, Little Mountain Home Park offers resort style retirement living for the over 50’s. Located just minutes from Caloundra’s town centre & beautiful beaches. Relaxed & secure environment. A perfect place to call home. • Community Hall • Bowling Green • Swimming Pool • Spa • Library • Craft Room • Bus • BBQ • Hairdresser
Homes available from only $165,000
Answsers on Page 40 www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au
72 Mark Road West, Caloundra • Phone 5492 5600 • www.lmhp.com.au May 2015 - Gold Coast Seniors - Page 43
Page 44 - Gold Coast Seniors - May 2015
www.seniorsnewspaper.com.au