Brisbane, November 2019 by seniors

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INSIDE PROFILE EX POLICE COMMISSIONER CHRISTINE NIXON FINDS NEW WORLDS OF GIVING IN RETIREMENT

ENVIRONMENT ELECTRIC CAR, SOLAR PANELS, PROTESTS: MEET ONE LADY WHO HAS GONE GREEN

Focus ON FRIENDS We’re all social animals and we need to belong

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TERMS & CONDITIONS CONDITIONS *Price *Price isis per per person person Twin Share. Single Supplement Supplement applies. applies. Credit Credit card surcharges apply. Deposit $500-$800 Deposit of of AUD AUD$500-$800 per person is required to secure tour. tour. Tour Tour requires requires a minimum number number of of passengers passengers to to depart. depart. Prices Prices may ﬂuctuate if surcharges, fee, taxes or currency change. Prices current as at 21st October 2019. 20 January 2019. Go See Touring in conjunction with Norfolk Select Marketing ABN: 93 367 366 822 ATAS Accreditation A10619 Accr

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with Chelsea Flower Show 13 - 25 May 2020 ESCORTED EX BRISBANE Spring in England is the most beautiful time of the year, when the country covers itself in flowers and the temperatures are mild. During this garden filled 13 day tour you will explore some of the most famous English gardens, stately homes and From imposing castles that Southern England has to offer. Highlights include Chelsea Flower Show, Great Dixter *per person Twin Share House, Sissinghurst Castle, Leeds Castle, Canterbury, ex BNE Single Supp. $1,385 Bath, Cotswolds, Abbey House, Malmesbury & much more! Contact us for a full itinerary.

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14 - 22 March 2020 Join us on this escorted Tassie Croquet Devils 9 day tour and visit beautiful Tasmania where you can indulge in history, visit stunning wilderness areas and enjoy some delicious food and wines. Combine the fun and friendship of hitting through the hoops with some wonderful touring when we travel to Tasmania in 2020. Why not join the fun!

11 - 18 JULY 2020 Want to enjoy the festive season twice this year? Spend a week on Norfolk Island with its stunning scenery, sandy beaches and jagged cliﬀs. There is so much to see and do - and all at your own pace. We’ve included some great accommodation options, a hire car so you can explore, some fabulous tours that you won’t want to miss, plus plenty more to do on the Island. Enjoy a festive delicious Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings, fun trivia and Carols at Paradise Hotel & Resort. Chase away those winter blues and have some fun. Call us now to secure your accommodation.

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NORFOLK ISLAND A 18 - 25 JULY 2020 LITTLE BIT COUNTRY Join Fortunato Isgro or Lindsay (Waddo) Waddington for

a fantastic week on Norfolk Island of Songs and laughter! ESCORTED EX BRISBANE A Little Bit Country on Norfolk Island 2020 sees a great line-up of performers taking to the stage. Graeme Hugo, Fortunato Isgro, Wayne Horsburgh and Lindsay (Waddo) Waddington will all perform at 3 big shows during the From week. Plus plenty of time for you to enjoy beautiful Norfolk Island with its colourful history, lush greenery, stunning scenery and friendly locals. Enjoy delicious *per person Twin Share cuisine, tours, time to shop and explore and plenty of ex BNE Single Supp. $410 laughs along the way. Call us for more information!

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20 - 27 JULY 2020 Join us for the 2020 Singapore Garden Festival. The festival showcases colourful and exciting garden designs with exquisite ﬂoral displays from over 50 designers and 19 countries. During the tour you’ll also visit the Botanic Gardens, National Orchid Gardens, have breakfast at the zoo, high tea at the iconic Raﬄes Hotel, visit the National Museum plus experience the exciting sights and sounds of Sentosa Island. We’d love to have you with us when we travel to this beautiful multi-cultural city and its fabulous gardens. Space is limited.

13 - 24 OCTOBER 2020 Vietnam dazzles the senses. The sights, the sounds, the fragrances. Dramatic vistas and tumultuous history. Beautiful fresh foods, vibrant markets and friendly locals. Let us show you why we love this compelling country so much. This 11 day tour takes in the best of south, central and northern Vietnam and ends with a 2 night cruise on the UNESCO World Heritage Halong Bay. You’ll ﬁnd out why everyone is drawn to this fascinating country and why it should be on everyone’s travel list. Contact us for more details

WELCOME

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

INDEX 3 4 6 8 14 16 26 29 37 39 58 59

News - The green behind the grey Cover story - Christine Nixon News - Making aged care sexy News - A Brissie family day out News - How good is cannabis? Feature story - Syd Kirkby Issues - Retiring into rental stress Community group guide What’s on Wanderlust Reviews Puzzles

Tips for good health and wellbeing

29 Community news and local events

Pioneers and legends Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor THIS month we feature explorers and pioneers of land, mind and electric cars! Besides the great youthful achievements of our featured profiles, these people have also moved into mature age and transformed their skills to suit the times. In my books, this part of our lives offers fresh opportunities to re-assess our lifestyle and what really matters, to speak up or change our minds or indeed, just settle down. For me, it’s remaining curious besides recognising and happily remaining open to change. Margaret McDonald is certainly driven by future environmental concerns for her children and grandchildren. It’s a key reason she become one of a few Australian people driving a fully electric car. Journalist Alison Houston spoke to Margaret about how she fared during an extensive trip in her new Hyundai Kona. While many of us pay lip service to climate change, among other things, Margaret has installed solar panels in her home, moved to a vegetarian diet three days a week and uses her ‘keep’ cup for coffee, in order to reduce her carbon footprint. Tracey Johnstone speaks to another trailblazer, Christine Nixon, the first woman to be appointed a police commissioner, about her life

after work. Frankly, in her community service endeavours, she seems as energetic as ever. The story of legendary Antarctica surveyor Syd Kirkby and his Antarctic adventures, including great pictures, is published across a two-page spread. His explanations and insights describing his pioneering explorations in this wild and beautiful part of the world are awe-inspiring. No wonder he was honoured with many awards, including the Australian Geographic Society’s highest honour, the Lifetime of Adventure Award. In our Living section, Tracey Johnstone has taken an in-depth look at something many of us suffer from — loneliness. Her feature tackles the subject head-on and talks about how we can reach out, change directions and, if necessary, find medical support. I hope you enjoy the read and don’t forget you can find us online at seniorsnews.com.au.

CONTACT US General Manager Geoff Crockett – 07 5430 1006 geoff.crockett@news.com.au Editor Gail Forrer – 07 5435 3203 gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Executive Mark Smith - 07 3327 3327 mark.smith@newsregionalmedia.com.au Online Get your news online at www.seniorsnews.com.au Advertising, editorial and distribution enquiries Phone: 1300 880 265 or (07) 5435 3200 Email: advertising@seniorsnewspaper.com.au or editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Location: 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore 4558 Website: www.seniorsnews.com.au Subscriptions Only $39.90 for one year (12 editions) including GST and postage anywhere in Australia. Please call our circulations services on 1300 361 604 and quote “Brisbane Seniors Newspaper”. The Seniors Newspaper is published monthly and distributed free in southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales. The Seniors newspaper stable includes Toowoomba, Wide Bay, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Northern NSW, Coffs and Clarence and Central Coast publications. Published by News Corp Australia. Printed by News Corp Australia, Yandina. Opinions expressed by contributors to Seniors Newspapers are not necessarily those of the editor or the owner/publisher and publication of advertisements implies no endorsement by the owner/publisher.

Retrospective and new releases at UK film fest THE 2019 MINI British Film Festival has a program of 30 titles, including some highly anticipated new releases, a retrospective on Dame Helen Mirren and some restored gems. The festival runs

nationally from October 29. It opens with Military Wives from director Peter Cattaneo (The Full Monty, 1997). Kristin Scott Thomas leads this inspiring drama about the bravery of the women of war, and the power of the

music that saved them. Closing the festival will be the highly anticipated film The Good Liar. Based on the widely acclaimed novel by Nicholas Searle, Oscar-winning screenwriter Bill Condon (Gods and Monsters,

1998) directs this wicked thriller featuring magnificent lead performances by Dame Helen Mirren and Sir Ian McKellen. The festival will also screen director Armando Iannucci’s The Personal History Of David

Copperfield, direct from opening night at the London Film Festival. A selection of highlights from Helen Mirren’s career will pay tribute to the remarkable and versatile talents of a captivating woman who embodies strength and

grace no matter the character she plays. For updates/info go to: britishfilmfestival.com.au; facebook.com/ britishfilmfest Brisbane: Runs until 24 Nov, Palace Barracks, Palace James St.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

NEWS

The green behind the grey Alison Houston

MARGARET McDonald is a pioneer of sorts – one of a relative handful of Australians who own fully electric cars. An RMIT ABC Fact Check report in June found just 0.2 per cent of new cars sold in Australia are electric and that we have the lowest sale rates of any developed OECD country. Concerned about the environmental future for her children and grandchildren, and inspired by attending last year’s Sydney’s Antidote Festival of Ideas, Action and Change, Margaret, from Erina on NSW’s Central Coast, took delivery of her new Hyundai Kona in August. She has also installed solar panels in her home and moved to a vegetarian diet three days a week in order to reduce her carbon footprint. The 74-year-old also demonstrated at the school climate change protest in The Domain, has reduced her air travel and become more aware of recycling. That includes never buying bottled water and rejecting takeaway coffee unless she has her “keep cup” with her. “I just think about my grandchildren and what an awful thing we are leaving for them,” Margaret said. With too many politicians having ignored the environmental consequences of fossil fuel reliance and the need to invest in alternatives, she said she believed it was up to every individual to do what they could. Recognising the prudence of waiting until the cost of electric cars came down and there was greater infrastructure

CHARGING AHEAD: Margaret McDonald recharges her Hyundai Kona at Euroa, Victoria, where a different system to NSW requires you to download and use an app. Photo: Alison Houston

available, Margaret nevertheless decided that with limited driving years ahead, and change unlikely until more people purchase the cars, she would take the step to electric. “I feel a little glow when I go out, knowing I am not causing any pollution,” Margaret said. And she allows herself the occasional snigger as she watches the rising petrol prices to which she is now completely immune. Margaret also is electricity bill-free, with the 20 solar panels she has installed in her home providing three times more electricity than she uses, and contributing back to the grid. But she admits the initial outlay for both the panels and the car were significant, and a lot more planning is currently required to travel long

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distances to ensure a suitable recharging stop is available. Margaret said her SUV-style Kona was about $65,000, but has a far greater range (450km) than the smaller alternative Ioniq (230km). With a charger installed in her garage, she has not had a problem getting around the Coast – only recharging twice in five weeks – but decided in September to test out a longer distance, driving to Bacchus Marsh in Victoria to visit her sister – a round trip of 2288km. She discovered the Plugshare app which allowed her to type in the vehicle make and her destination and showed all suitable charging stations along the route. Much like mobile phones, she said, not all chargers suit all cars, with many aimed at the

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more expensive Tesla brand. She explained there were three ways to charge an electric car: a DC fast-charger takes 30-60 minutes depending on how low the battery is; an AC charger takes nine hours to fully charge; and the portable charger (suitable for any household socket) takes 24 hours to recharge. The NRMA has installed free DC fast-charging stations near parks and tourist information centres in country areas, and the RACV at highway service stations (requiring a ChargeFox App to use). However, Margaret said she was surprised to find large towns like Wagga Wagga and Goulburn did not have chargers to suit her car, while in Canberra you have to apply for a swipe card which can take 5-10 days.

Another issue which Margaret hadn’t counted on was that the car’s range changes with the environment, so travelling at higher speeds and climbing the escarpment from Nowra to Jugiong drained her battery far faster than general driving. “I was panic-stricken for a while,” she said, but remembered an article she had read and slowed her speed sufficiently to get to the charge point with about 50km to spare. “As I had drained the battery to such a low point, it took 60 minutes to re-charge so I took the opportunity to have a cup of coffee and lunch,” she said. She reflected that this was another bonus of the electric car, forcing her to take rest stops rather than continuing driving tired as she might

otherwise have done. She did run into other problems on the way, including using the Victorian app, but said the return journey was uneventful as she had become accustomed to the process. “It was quite an adventure and a bit stressful at times but that is mostly to do with the lack of infrastructure,” Margaret said, with ranges of 170-265km between chargers. For everyday driving around the Coast, she said the electric car was comfortable, easy to use, so quiet she sometimes forgot it was running, and had no exhaust or heat from the engine. She has no regrets about her purchase, and says for the sake of a little extra planning and keeping an eye on the range, it is a positive step.

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NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Trailblazer

Christine Nixon up for a challenge Tracey Johnstone

ANOTHER LIFE: Former police commissioner Christine Nixon has taken on fresh challenges in her retirement. Photo: David Crosling

CHRISTINE Nixon is a woman of conviction who has stood in the line of fire in so many ways. She’s an outstanding changemaker and leader with a deep sense of community who at age 66 is facing her own and her family’s realities of ageing. Ms Nixon was the first woman in Australia to be appointed a police commissioner, taking on the role in Victoria in 2001 and holding it for eight years. She climbed up through the ranks, never wavering from her belief that her gender was irrelevant in relation to her ability to be a leader... but the appointment still came as a surprise. “I was shocked,” she said, having previously applied unsuccessfully for both the South Australia and the NSW police commissioner jobs. “I figured I had a lot knowledge and skills,

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experience and exposure. My father was the one who encouraged me to think about Victoria. “I never thought a NSW police officer would get to be the police commissioner in Victoria. “It was very public, very high profile; it was a tricky job.” And the support of her father wasn’t always there. When she decided to enter the NSW police force aged 19, it was against his will. “In those days there were very few opportunities,” she said, with the job choices for women mainly secretarial, nursing or teaching. “University was out of the question for many reasons,” she said. “I wasn’t really taken by the options and my father was a police officer. And I was tall enough, just.” She had to wait several months before she was accepted in October 1972. In those days the NSW police had a quota of only 130 women. There were many highs

and a few low points in her outstanding career. “Few women are in high-profile roles, so you are very likely to attract a lot of attention and a lot of heat,” Ms Nixon said. “Until we get to a point where a woman in a senior position is not anything unusual, and I think we are a long way from there, then you know you are going to get criticised. Part of it is knowing it’s going to happen. Sometimes you have stuffed it up and sometimes you are just being blamed.” Working Monday to Friday has finally stopped for Ms Nixon after 38 years on the police force and 15 months working as Chair of the Victorian Bushfire Reconciliation and Recovery Authority. But that doesn’t mean she has stopped working per se. She took her own advice of thinking about what was going to happen next before she made the decision to leave the force.

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SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

PROFILE

with much more to do ‘‘

... but I did know lots about people who are poor and need support “I decided I wanted to be involved in some not-for-profit organisations and I thought I would sit on some boards, perhaps for companies,” Ms Nixon said. “I also decided that I knew a lot about women’s leadership, and I wanted to encourage women to think about taking up management and leadership positions.” Most recently, she completed the role of Chair of the national organisation Good Shepherd Microfinance, which she started in 2012. The sisters of Good Shepherd of Australia and New Zealand wanted a much greater focus on their no-interest loans, and they asked Ms Nixon

Former Victorian police commissioner Christine Nixon reflects on the tragic Bourke Street attack, six months on. Photo: Aaron Francis to set up the organisation and chair the board. “I told them I didn’t know a lot about microfinance, but I did know lots about people who are poor and need support and shouldn’t be

exploited,” she said, with the organisation now providing about 30,000 loans a year. “The loans are available to anyone across Australia who are pensioners,” she said

proudly. Ms Nixon’s current roles are chair of Monash College in Melbourne and a councillor and deputy chancellor at Monash University. She also leads conversations on

women’s leadership as a result the Women Leading book she co-wrote with Professor Amanda Sinclair and presents to conferences and events on organisational change. She has about 18 months to go on current commitments and then will turn her focus back to advocating for reducing violence against women. “While I was in the police, I spent a lot of time working with community organisations about family violence,” she said. “I am also a patron of Family Violence Centre and I am on the university advisory group.” Ms Nixon’s life is anything but ordinary, yet the way she has coped with the stresses of life in the past and present is not dissimilar to many of us. In Sydney, her ageing father of 92 is steadfastly still living at home since losing his wife to dementia three years ago. Ms Nixon’s brother lives nearby, and she talks to her father daily and visits often. “You have to do some thinking about the future

but certainly I know a vast amount of people finish up dying in their own homes, not in a nursing home,” she said. Her life at home in a country town outside of Melbourne is happily filled with mosaics, painting and drawing. The backyard has two sheds: one for her creative work and another for her husband John Becquet’s work on technology interests. “What has driven us where we are now is a need for a community around us,” she said. It’s giving her the chance to become reconnected to people, something she really values. Ms Nixon recognises we are all living in a state of flux but that doesn’t mean that people like herself can’t still effect positive change. She has chosen not to go down the politics pathway, but instead use her leadership skills and community awareness to help create positive change elsewhere during what she calls the next phase of her life.

NEWS

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Making aged care sexy

Innovation needed to improve environment Kerry Heaney

AGED care institutions can look sexy, says Julie Ockerby, a former nurse who is winning global awards for her pioneering work in Australian healthcare. She believes institutions for the elderly should have much more in common with hotels, including a sexy, inviting appearance. The principal creative director for Meli Studo, Ockerby has been recognised on the world stage for her design innovations. She won a Gold Stevie Entrepreneur of the Year - Business & Professional Services and a Silver Stevie for Woman of the Year in the 2019 International Business Awards. Ockerby says more innovation in aged care is needed. “I don’t think the needs and demands of our seniors population is now so much more demanding, I just don’t think it has been met in the past,” she said. “Rather than aged care being scary, it should be a destination point, a continuation of life’s milestones that is not daunting but an added life experience in one’s timeline.” A member of Ageing Asia’s Fast Track team which conducts classes in best practice aged care around the region, Ockerby’s inspiration came from a deeply personal experience. “My father was ill and needed a nursing home,

Residential in Mosman master bedroom by Meli Studio.

Photos: Scott Riley

Uniting Care Gerringong cafe by Meli Studio.

JULIE OCKERBY’S TIPS TO MAKE AGED CARE FACILITIES MORE INVITING

GLOBAL RECOGNITION: Julie Ockerby with the Bespoke Collection fabrics outside Meli HQ.

1. Add more pops of colour. 2. Include more textures with fabrics and wall finishes. 3. Take out the sterile commercial elements and substitute the clever use of finishes that are seen in hotels and residential spaces. It has to function operationally, but it doesn’t have to look like a hospital or institution. 4. Invest in feature lights and use collaborating lighting as a feature as well as a functional tool. 5. Hang artwork as conversational pieces. Art is so subjective. You either like it or not, but either way, art can provide talking points. I don’t think I know one artist who artistically creates a piece hoping that it should be a “safe” talking point.

but I couldn’t find one to the standards I felt he deserved. Nobody was considering the environment as adding to his quality of life,” she said. “Why can’t aged care bedrooms be designed

more like hotel suites? Why can’t dining areas be more interactive and truly inspire all five senses, as we see in modern restaurants? “Moving forward, I’d like to see the design trends embracing the whole

family to encourage intergenerational involvement. “Areas such as private dining rooms need to be more than a big table with 12 chairs. They have to involve outdoor spaces and landscape features, such as playgrounds. “Our recent aged care home projects feature cafes, hotel-style reception or lobby spaces, hair salons and cinemas.” Ockerby was so frustrated by the lack of quality fabrics tailored to the aged, and the predominance of uninspiring beige (her personal design bugbear) that she released her own

Meli Studio fabric range. The bright but not overbearing colours, simple patterns, and soft but hardwearing textures all have an obligatory waterproof backing. Meli Studio also designs specialist dementia units using colour psychology to reduce the institutional feel. According to Ockerby, dementia design needs to involve the person in designing their space according to colours they like, their hobbies and their general daily routine. “In an aged-care setting, you are designing for a cluster of residents all with individual needs.

Achieving core requirements of dementia design such as contrast levels and spaces that evoke a sense of calmness is crucial to maintaining behavioural status quo.” Given a choice, Japan would be her preferred destination for aged-care living. “Japan does aged care really well, with dignity, privacy and intergenerational activities,” she said. “Plus, top priorities such as food, music, physical exercise, social interaction and music are part of everyday life in a home in Japan.”

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NEWS

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

A Brissie family day out Kerry Heaney THINKING about taking your grandkids for a fun-filled day out? From world-class gardens to free workshops, historical tours and interstellar adventures, there are plenty of budget-friendly things to see and do in Brisbane, all easily accessible by free off-peak public transport for seniors, and free or discounted travel for accompanying kids. Best of all, the journey becomes part of the adventure, with travel on buses and CityCats an engaging treat for many children. Use your senior go card and your travel will be lighter on your pocket too. Brisbane City Council has made seniors travel easier with free off-peak travel on buses and ferries. Here are our top picks ■ Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium: Take a journey through space at the planetarium, where the Cosmic Skydome holds out-of-this-world shows to

captivate the kid in all of us. The 12.5m-diameter projection dome features shows six days a week, including Capturing the Cosmos, We are Aliens! and Dark Universe. The planetarium also has an observatory, the Galaxy Gift Shop and Sundial Courtyard. ■ Council libraries: Visit one of council’s 33 libraries across Brisbane, to explore the collection of over 1.4 million items, including children’s books, best-sellers and the latest magazines and DVDs. Brisbane libraries also run a range of free and low-cost classes, workshops, activities and events suitable for children, including craft classes and storytime. It’s a great way to spend a day with the family. If you’re not a library member, sign up for your free membership today. ■ City Botanic Gardens: Located at the south end of the CBD, the City Botanic Gardens is the place to find stunning views of the Brisbane River and Story Bridge. There are ornamental ponds, a 23-species

BOTANIC BEAUTY: Located at the south end of the CBD, the City Botanic Gardens has ornamental ponds, a 23-species bamboo collection, and a big playground. bamboo collection, a big playground and plenty of space to let the grandkids run around. CityCat and City Ferry terminals are located at the bottom end of Edward St, and bus stops are just outside the gardens’ entrance. ■ Museum of Brisbane and City Hall Clock Tour: Enjoy a free Clock Tower

tour and rise above Brisbane City Hall, one of Brisbane’s most iconic buildings and the symbolic heart of our city since 1930. Free tours operate daily, taking visitors up 64m to the observation platform in a beautiful old hand-operated lift. Once you’ve enjoyed the bird’s-eye view of the

city, check out the Museum of Brisbane’s range of creative art and design experiences, all free and a great way to inspire children and adults alike. Bus connections can be found along Adelaide and Ann Sts, as well as in King George Square bus terminal, located a short walk from City Hall.

Travel tip: Check TransLink’s journey planner for your best public transport routes to all locations. You will also find details on how and when to take advantage of free off-peak travel for seniors and discounted or free travel for kids aged five to 14 years at translink.com.au.

Carefree, relaxed living by the bay Enjoy life’s simple pleasures with a relaxed yet connected lifestyle at Cleveland Manor Retirement Village on Brisbane’s bayside. You’ll have the best of both worlds – a peaceful and secure lifestyle, with amenities and Raby Bay on your doorstep. Act before 20th December 2019 and we’ll even throw in a Christmas gift of $10,000*, so you can start the new year with a beautiful new home – and focus on enjoying your new lifestyle at Cleveland Manor.

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PROFILE STORY

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

100 adventurous years English-born, speaking several languages, and saw Hitler A FORMER school teacher and netball coach from Brookfield who survived the bombing blitz in England during World War II is one of Queensland’s newest centenarians. Margaret Holloway, who lives at the Carinity Brookfield Green aged-care community, turned 100 on October 7. She became a member of a very exclusive club – one of about 4250 centenarians in Australia. During her life, Margaret has witnessed the world at war, man walking on the moon, the invention of television and the advent of the computer age. Born in Oulton, a tiny village in Yorkshire, England in 1919, Margaret was one of six siblings. She went to school for only a few years before working as a farm labourer. “My mother lived through the depression but because they were farmers they had enough to live on,” Margaret’s

daughter Francoise Masterman said. Margaret was a high-school geography teacher for most of her life, spoke fluent German and French and coached netball at school and university. “I lived in quite peculiar times because I was born right at the end of World War I in 1919 and lived through World War II when it was in Europe,” Margaret said. “I saw Hitler. I had a German pen pal and I did a student exchange to Germany in 1936 and we went to Berlin to attend the Olympic Games and Hitler was there.” When she was in her early 20s, Margaret wanted to serve her country by undertaking war service during World War II. “Four siblings were involved in military action during the war, including one brother who was a captain in the navy and one who was a fighter pilot,” Francoise said.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: Margaret Holloway with her granddaughter Marguerite Masterman. “My mother wanted to contribute to the war effort but due to the shortage of teachers at that time, she was urged to teach. “While she was

studying at the University of Sheffield, the city was bombed heavily by the Germans because Sheffield was where a lot of the steel was made. A couple of times during the

bombings she had to hide.” Margaret spent most of her life in England before migrating to Australia in 1970 at the age of 50, to be near her only daughter.

Photo: CONTRIBUTED

She settled at Wynnum, where she lived in her own home until the age of 97 and taught at nearby Moreton Bay College. She celebrated 100 years with a family party.

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SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

NEWS

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Bathe in the beauty

Amazing facts about parkland Kerry Heaney IT’S the big Brisbane CBD park that people often overlook, but with 16 hectares bursting with seasonal colour, Roma Street Parkland is well worth exploring. The gardens are next to the Brisbane Transit Centre and with large stretches of grass lawns are very family friendly. ■ Here are 10 things to discover in Roma Street Parkland ✰1. Roma Street Parkland is the most extensive urban subtropical garden in the world. ✰2. More than 3000 annuals are planted every year for a mass blooming

of curated colour within the Spectacle Garden in Colin Campbell Place. This year the colourful display is made of mass plantings of old-fashioned favourites like petunias, snapdragons and pansies, as well as on-trend additions such as ornamental kale. ✰3. Hidden gems can also be found while meandering the gardens’ paths. Sandstone artworks have been dotted throughout the gardens, while the city side of the Spectacle Garden sees the pathway mimic the flow of the Brisbane River. ✰4. Free guided tours are run twice daily at 11am and 1pm; or simply pack a picnic, perch on a patch of

MAGICIAL: Roma Street Parkland is the largest sub-tropical city garden in the world. grass and soak up the leafy green surroundings. ✰5. The Sound Society, a free live music event, is held one weekend of every month within the parkland and is designed for young and old alike to enjoy. ✰6. If you want to bring the grandkids, free activities are held throughout school holidays at Kids

Collective. As well, for a gold coin donation, children can ride through the parkland with an interpretative commentary on the Parkland Explorer Trackless Train. ✰7. Roma Street Parkland is conveniently placed beside the Roma Street train and bus stations, is less than 10 minutes’ walk from the city and contains parking

facilities. ✰8. The newly opened Garden Room, Brisbane’s latest restaurant and dining experience, offers a coffee stop or a long lunch stop. Even linger over tea and scones. ✰9. Roma Street Parkland has a long-standing volunteer program which began in 2001. There are more than 95 volunteers

Photo: Ashley Roach

working in the parkland, in three volunteer groups; Gardening, Guides, the Parkland Explorer train team that consists of drivers, conductors and ambassadors. ✰10. The gardens offer more than 16 hectares of parkland to explore, including a Queensland rainforest bordering the main lake — the heart of the parkland.

Tech-savvy seniors reality check

River Glen

RESEARCH released in August 2019 by National Seniors Australia challenges the stereotype that seniors are being “left behind” by digital technology. Titled Senior Surfers, the online survey of more than 4500 members, whose ages range from over 50 to in their 90s, found: · 70 per cent use an internet search engine every day · 40 per cent use Facebook daily (including close to 20% of those aged 80+) · 63 per cent don’t feel technology is designed for younger generations · 68 per cent don’t feel frustrated using new technology

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National Seniors CEO, Professor John McCallum: “There are just too many blanket statements that are very negative about older people’s skills, such as ‘they’re behind the times’, ‘they’re digitally illiterate’ or ‘there is a digital divide between young and old.” The survey categorised respondents into four groups based on their digital literacy. These categories are: ■ SUPER SURFERS – Someone very comfortable using digital technology in their everyday lives. 31.4 per cent of respondents were rated in this category. ■ SAVVY SURFERS – Someone who is very comfortable using digital

services but not as frequently as “Super Surfers”. 41.6 per cent of respondents were rated in this category. ■ SOMETIMES SURFERS – Someone who uses technology when necessary but is not always comfortable or proficient. 21.8 per cent were rated in this category. ■ SELDOM SURFERS – Someone who can use technology but rarely does. Just 5.2 per cent were in this category. “The message from this is, it is a good idea to be digitally literate before you get into your 80s so you can enjoy the ease of access to family, friends and finances,” Prof McCallum said.

Located within walking distance to shops, transport and town amenities, River Glen offers its residents: • Visiting doctor • Day tours • Social functions • Workshop • Craft area • Gym

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ONLINE: Senior adults learning the latest tricks in a computer class.

Photo: SilviaJansen

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

NEWS

City funds for country Donations for areas affected by drought

Kerry Heaney DROUGHT-stricken families at Stanthorpe have a little more water in their tanks thanks to a group of seniors at Elements Retirement Living (ERL), Springwood. Based on reports from friends about critically low levels in Granite Belt dams and how Stanthorpe locals were doing it tough during the drought and fires, the residents raised $2400 from donations. “It’s good to know in our retirement years that we can help out in this way,” said ERL residents’ committee chairman Ian Smythe. “We heard from friends about people bucketing water from a creek to bathe and wash. Kids are going to school without a shower or bath for a couple of days. “Here we water our garden without even thinking about it. Now

GENEROUS GIVERS: Residents at Elements Retirement Living, Springwood have raised more than $2000 to help farmers hit by drought. people in some of Stanthorpe’s outlying areas have some water.” Money raised by residents was matched dollar-for-dollar by ERL managing director and founder, Chiou-See Anderson. “By matching fundraising efforts, I hope the Elements Retirement

Living community will rally together and give generously. Whether it be $5 or $100, every dollar will make a difference to the people of Stanthorpe,” Ms Anderson said. “They’re only four hours from us, but the contrast is astounding.” The water drive follows

a string of fundraising efforts at ERL, with residents raising more than $3100 for the Buy a Bale campaign earlier this year. “Before the devastating fires, some farmers were looking down the barrel to be without water by Christmas. The recent tragedy has seen people

deplete their own water tanks to help fight the fires, leaving the water at an even more alarmingly low level,” Mr Smythe said. “We hope our donations can make a difference for even one or two families.” Looking for ways to further support the region, the residents’ next

project is the donation of 200kg of dog food for farmers who can’t feed their dogs. ERL is located near Daisy Hill State Forest, Springwood. The village includes a community and wellness centre and Zen garden, and is near shops, cafes, hospitals and golf courses.

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NEWS

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

How good is cannabis? Government says further research is worth funding

THE Morrison Government is investing $3 million from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) to examine the benefits of medicinal cannabis for pain, symptom and side effect management for cancer patients. Since her own battle, Olivia Newton-John has been an advocate for breast cancer awareness and research, and through her personal experience and ongoing efforts has helped shine a light on the benefits associated with medicinal cannabis. A government spokesperson said this was an open and contestable grant opportunity and the Government was committed to ensuring a safe, quality supply of medicinal cannabis to Australian patients, but only when it was prescribed by a medical professional. Overall, more than 11,000 patients are

‘‘

11,000 patients are estimated to have been approved to access medicinal cannabis

estimated to have been approved to access medicinal cannabis products – with the majority approved this year. There have been only a limited number of well-designed clinical studies on medicinal cannabis, and there is a need to increase the evidence base to support medical professionals to make their decisions. Given the increase in prescribed medicinal cannabis, the Government

FUNDING: Further research into medicinal effects of cannabis will be undertaken with government investment.

Photo: FatCamera

has supported the nation’s medicinal cannabis industry, and cut red tape, to help meet demand. The medicinal cannabis industry is seen as having

the potential to make a significant contribution to exports, employment and economic growth, particularly in rural and regional areas. The first licence for an

Australian company to grow and harvest medicinal cannabis was granted in March 2017, and 78 licences now exist.

To support further growth in the industry, applicants with Major Project Status will be given priority to receive medicinal cannabis licences through the Office of Drug Control.

A K O O B TOUR

Live well in the heart of it all Welcome to Aveo Carindale – a new retirement community conveniently located across the road from Westﬁeld Carindale and adjacent to beautiful parkland. Live well in a 1, 2 or 3 bedroom apartment and enjoy access to the exclusive residents Lifestyle Centre featuring a pool, restaurant, cinema, gym, beauty salon and more.

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SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

FREE OFF-PEAK PUBLIC TRANSPORT FOR MATURE CITIZENS.

Brisbane just keeps getting better. Senior go card users now get free off-peak travel on Brisbane buses, CityCats and ferries from 8.30am-3.30pm and 7pm-6am weekdays, and on buses all weekend. For more information visit brisbane.qld.gov.au and search ‘free seniors travel’ or call Council on 3403 8888.

Conditions & exclusions apply.

NEWS

FEATURE STORY

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

‘Yes’ to a life of huge challenges

IMMENSITY: The vastness of the Antarctic made Syd Kirkby feel small as he set out with his dogs, sledges and two comrades. Photo:

Courtesy of Syd Kirkby.

Legendary surveyor’s awesome achievements

THE universal reaction to first experiencing Antarctica is “awe and wonder”, according to one of the country’s trailblazers, Syd Kirkby AO MBE. The 86-year-old retired surveyor, recognised by the Australian Museum as one of our 50 greatest explorers and by The Australian newspaper as one of our 10 greatest adventurers, said he had seen people “actually incapacitated by awe, they were just so overwhelmed by the grandeur, scale and magnificence”. And despite wintering (1956-57, 1960-61 and 1979-81) and summering there (1961-62, 1962-63 and 1964-65 and 1979-80) as part of Australia’s Antarctic program, undertaking extensive sledging journeys for exploration and mapping, and returning in later years with tourists, he said Antarctica remained fascinating and incomparable. Syd is recorded as having explored and mapped more of the Australian Antarctic Territory than anyone else – much of it by dogsled in temperatures to minus 70 degrees Celsius. He established the most easterly, westerly and southerly astrofixes in the Australian Antarctic

Territory and with two comrades became the first and only people to explore the Prince Charles Mountains on the ground more than 60 years ago. While he has not personally noticed any climate-related environmental changes over the years in Antarctica, he said “it behoves us to treat the planet with complete circumspection and care because that is the right thing to do” rather than continuing with our “profligate and careless use of resources”. Living on the edge Syd said he had never felt any enmity or opposition from the continent, as some people articulated, but it was certainly not an environment to be taken lightly. He recalled winds so strong they had picked up and blown a cable-tied DC3 plane over 12km, and spending months in a 2m x 1.5m tent, hundreds of miles from Mawson station, with just a handful of dogs and two comrades, knowing that a simple tear in the fabric could mean they perished. “Knowing there is no salvation except as a result of your efforts and those of your two comrades is a very privileged feeling,” he said, comparing it to the bond of fellow soldiers or those united by natural disaster. He said he had learnt a

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lot “as a 22-year-old kid” working with former Second World War servicemen including Battle of Britain veterans during his first winter in Antarctica. “They knew themselves, and they knew about bravery and honour and comradeship,” he said. “To run like billy-oh trying to keep up with those men and then realise after a few months that they treated you just like one of them was pretty heady stuff … mind you, you’re not like them at all.” However, Syd had fought his own battles to be there. He overcame childhood polio and being told he would never walk again through his own determination and his father’s dedication and gruelling exercise regime. Syd described the comradeship between sledgers as “probably closer than most family relationships”, because so much time was spent in complete dependence on each other, traversing terrain knowing that “no feet have ever been where your feet are”. Working with the sledge dogs, which he described as “wonderful and beautiful animals”, he said was also a privilege, although “a fairly sweaty and hardworking privilege”. However, he admitted it was also a gruesome

Syd Kirkby in the Australian Antarctic Territory. Photo: Courtesy of USC activity. “It was dirty, filthy, brutal, and often a death sentence for the dogs, but it worked at a time and place when nothing else would,” he said. Although in his earliest expeditions about 85 per

Award-winning portrait of Syd Kirkby by Tom Macbeth. Photo: Courtesy of

cent of Antarctica was unexplored, Syd does not see himself as an adventurer, with the label “explorer” sitting more comfortably with him. “An adventurer is someone who does things for the gratification of the

Tom Macbeth

thrill; I and the people I worked with are some of the most rational people on Earth – you have to be to survive,” he said. But having worked in both Antarctica and, at the other extreme, in the Great Sandy Desert with

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SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

FEATURE STORY

A long sea voyage on very rough seas in a small ship meant not being sick was a major preoccupation for about 10 days journeying to Antarctica, Syd Kirkby said. Photo:

Courtesy of Syd Kirkby.

‘‘

I have practically never seen anyone not ennobled by Antarctica and Antarctic service

some of the last Aborigines living completely traditional tribal lifestyles in the 1950s, he said: “I have certainly been blessed to work in wondrous places”. Places which bring out the best in people.

“I have practically never seen anyone not ennobled by Antarctica and Antarctic service,” Syd said. “It demands a great deal of you and you step up to that – you look at your comrades as giants,

and they are tough as goats’ knees yet as concerned as any mother.” He recalled his team running beside or behind the sledge typically 20 nautical miles (38km) a day – on one memorable occasion covering 67 nautical miles (123km) because they were heading home. ■ The Antarctic Treaty and Honours Syd spoke to Seniors newspapers prior to a lecture on The Getting of Australian Antarctica at the University of the Sunshine Coast in association with Royal Geographical Society of Queensland. Australia’s Antarctic

Syd Kirkby said he did not see himself as an adventurer but an explorer. Photo: Courtesy of Australian Museum territory covers nearly 5.9 million sq km, about 42 per cent of Antarctica and 80 per cent of the total area of Australia itself – as Syd said, “a serious bit of real estate”. However, what he marvels at is that Australia gained this land at a time when we still only existed as a colony. He regards the 1959

Antarctic Treaty as “remarkable”, its essence contained in a few short lines in Clause 4, which states that no unilateral action by any power will affect existing territorial claims. That ensures there can be no “territorial ructions” or power plays, as feared in the Cold War days and just as likely during

today’s political turmoil, to put the land or the scientific work carried out there in peril. And for Syd, that is paramount. “I’m intensely aware of my good fortune … It’s been a great life,” he said, adding a salute to the wives and families who had made it possible for all those who worked in Antarctica “doing these hair-brained and immensely dangerous things” at a time when it was very unusual for women to have to cope with raising a family on their own. “And the majority did it bloody brilliantly,” he said. They and all his fellow comrades and mentors, he said, stand beside him every time he talks about or accepts an award for his work in Antarctica. Syd has been honoured with a number of Antarctic landmarks in his name – Mount Kirkby, Kirkby Glacier, Kirkby Shoal and Kirkby Head – and following the Polar Medal (1958) and his MBE (1966), was awarded in 2018 both an Order of Australia Medal and the Australian Geographic Society’s highest honour

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NEWS

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Discover a new

way to retire

at Azure Blue Retirement Villages

Enjoy a wonderful lifestyle close to everything you need. With quality apartments surrounded by beautiful gardens and resort style facilities, the choice is easy. Our villages offer a range of apartments to suit all your needs. Complete with spacious bedrooms, large contemporary kitchens with ample storage and quality fixtures and fittings, modern bathrooms and living areas designed to suit a variety of tastes. Enjoy the freedom of not having to take care of home maintenance and gardening, or worry about your home when you choose to travel. At our villages you can simply lock and leave, knowing your home is safe and secure. Enjoy amazing recreational areas intended as an extension of your

personal living space, where you and visiting friends and family can relax and enjoy a peaceful, yet active lifestyle. A monthly schedule of community activities allows you to enjoy the company of others as much as you desire, as well as allowing you to enjoy the best years of your life where everything you will ever need is right at your doorstep. We welcome you and visiting friends and family to relax, socialise and enjoy living your retirement your way. To ﬁnd out more about our retirement villages and how to experience easy retirement living, we invite you to come to one of our Pamper and Wellness events in November.

The best way to really get a feel of our villages is to come in and see them for yourself.

Contact Azure Blue Carina today on 3155 2126 to book your village tour or visit our website for more information www.azurebluecarina.com.au

Contact Azure Blue Redcliﬀe today on 3155 2101 to book your village tour or visit our website for more information www.azureblueredcliﬀe.com.au

Pamper and Wellness hosted by Margo Mott Come along to a morning of fashion, nutrition, health and beauty tips, and receive a mini hand and neck massage for free. Enjoy a delicious morning tea with likeminded people, and it’s a great way to meet our friendly staﬀ and residents.

RSVP is essential to secure your spot Azure Blue Redcliffe Tuesday 19 November from 9am 91 Anzac Avenue, Redcliﬀe Call 07 3155 2134 by 15 November Azure Blue Carina Thursday 21 November from 9am 455 Richmond Road, Carina Call 07 3155 2128 by 18 November

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

FREE SENIORS EVENT

NEWS

AZURE BLUE INVITES YOU TO

event ALL WELCOME

Margo Mott will be your host and will showcase her fashion label ‘That’s Me’, a collection that is easy and comfortable to wear. Our villages oﬀer a range of apartments complete with contemporary kitchens, modern bathrooms and living areas designed to suit a variety of tastes. When you choose to live in one of our retirement villages you have the freedom to enjoy the things that truly matter to you, in a safe and secure environment.

A fashion show Free mini hand and neck massage Nutrition, health and beauty tips Live entertainment Delicious morning tea

Azure Blue Redcliffe Tuesday 19 November 2019 9am - 11am

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91 Anzac Avenue, Redcliﬀe

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RSVP essential to secure your spot

NEWS

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Beautiful strong benefits of ballet Silver Swans sparkle

‘‘

...with the beautiful music and the movement, many seniors are unleashing their inner ballerina

A GROUP of extraordinary local seniors raised the barre in physical activity recently, as part of Aveo Clayfield’s (Brisbane) Retirement Living Expo 2019. Helping to spread the important message of physical and emotional health, the Silver Swans, a group of seniors who now train in ballet during their retirement, graced the stage at Aveo Clayfield and put on an amazing performance and ballet class for local senior residents. An initiative developed by the Royal Academy of Dance and aimed at

FITNESS WITH BENEFITS: The Silver Swans graced the stage at Aveo Clayfield and put on an amazing performance and ballet class for local senior residents. students 55 years and older, the Silver Swans is a ballet class that helps to improve mobility, co-ordination, posture and an overall sense of wellbeing. Crucially, it helps to provide seniors an important social connection for their demographic. This concept is proving wildly popular in helping retirees reach the minimum 30 minutes of daily physical activity they require. It comes as external

research shows that only one in 10 Australians over the age of 50 years exercises enough to gain any cardiovascular benefit. Marilyn Culpitt, principal at the Ascot School of Dance, said the program gave participants a general feeling of wellbeing. “Ballet allows a fabulous means of exercise to fabulous music,” she said. “Generally seniors are at an age where this is

just a lovely, gentle form of exercise — and they do work up quite a sweat at times. Ballet becomes more important, because it’s more than just an activity. “And with the beautiful music and the movement, many seniors are unleashing their inner ballerina that they have always wanted to be.” Ms Culpitt said ballet had many positive benefits. “Posture is one of the most important things in

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ballet, and from the very beginning, from the moment they walk on to the barre, we are focusing on their posture,” she said. “A lot of the ladies say by the end of the class, they are now far more aware of their posture when they are waiting in line at the supermarket, or even at home when they are doing the dishes — they are actually thinking of their position and how to hold themselves.”

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

NEWS

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

NEWS

Doing dying differently

A world-wide movement seeks change for the better

‘‘

Death is often over medicalised and revolves around institutions The GroundSwell Project initiated the National Compassionate Communities Forum and the www.comcomhub.com website, in an attempt to further the growth potential for the movement in Australia. “Too many Australians lack the choice, knowledge and decision-making power around their end of life and for those they care about,” CEO Jessie Williams said. “Too often we hear of negative repercussions for people when they don’t feel empowered.” The GroundSwell

Project is currently integrating the Compassionate Communities framework with nine communities around Australia. One of these projects is The Blue Mountains’ Willing Villagers initiative. This initiative aims to promote the idea that end of life is not the sole responsibility of healthcare professionals and providers but could be, and often is, a community mission. The Villagers (“neighbours” in the Blue Mountains) have the support to reach out to their own networks to heighten the care for those who are less connected and need the extra compassion. “It inspires increased tolerance and wider conversations in schools, businesses, community services, local government and social groups to normalise end of life instead of shying away from it and treating it like a forbidden topic,” Compassionate

Groundswell's Blue Mountains Willing Villagers.

Communities local lead Niki Read said. The Willing Villagers program identifies and enables people who tend to naturally build strong connections, create and solidify relationships, and are in the know about local community events

and supports. The program is closely linked to the one-on-one work taking place with GPs and small group initiatives that help with social connectedness, expanded choice and awareness about death and dying and end of life

practices. The program’s activity has been funded by Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network (NBMPHN) and is the first of its kind in Australia. Info: thegroundswel lproject.com

Blue Mountains Willing Villagers talking about Groundswell mission.

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WITH Australia’s ageing population set to double by 2050, The GroundSwell Project is advocating for local communities to bind together and become more involved in helping each other deal with the end-of-life stages of community members and their loved ones. “Death is often over-medicalised and revolves around institutions; leaving out the resources families and friends offer and the value they add to the process,” said Holly Rankin-Smith, GroundSwell Project’s Compassionate Communities national lead. Compassionate Communities (ComCom) is a global initiative started in the 1990s by Professor Allan Kellehear. The approach champions community involvement around the social issues that surround end of life and helps minimise the stigma attached to the conversation about death.

RETIREMENT

IN BRIEF

RETIREMENT LIVING PEOPLE AND PLACES

NATIONAL NEWS ThomsonAdsett has welcomed Simon Drysdale as group director – Seniors Living. Simon is extremely passionate about challenging the status quo within this sector and delving into the key issues around ‘longer living’. Simon will spearhead innovative design in retirement living and aged care across all of ThomsonAdsett’s Australian and international studios. He brings more than two decades of experience to ThomsonAdsett, having delivered a range of projects from the small and bespoke to large greenfield urban interventions. Simon has worked on various scales of retirement living and residential aged care projects across Australia and overseas. Simon’s new role with ThomsonAdsett, along with his ongoing association with RMIT University, enables him to continue his love of mentoring new talent, create practical industry research outcomes and deliver a genuine “do better” attitude in seniors living design.

ACCREDITATION SCHEME

THE new, unified accreditation scheme for retirement community owners and operators, is open for business. ARVAS is designed to be supported by the Retirement Living Code of Conduct, forming a new and robust quality framework for the operation of retirement communities. ARVAS is co-owned by two organisations representing the retirement living sector, the Property Council of Australia and Leading Age Services Australia (LASA), and operated on their behalf by Quality Innovation Performance (QIP), an experienced not-for-profit provider of independent accreditation services. Retirement community owners and operators are encouraged to visit www.arvas.com.au for more information and to register for accreditation.

QUEENSLAND

■ LENDLEASE has unveiled the plans for the $270 million Bernborough Ascot precinct, Australia’s first vertical retirement community built on a racecourse and due for completion by mid-2020.

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Retirement style to suit yourself Marcus Riley POSITIVE Ageing advocate Marcus Riley is well aware that everyone has a different idea of what they want from retirement living and it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. Mr Riley shares five key considerations to help individuals determine the right retirement living option. 1. Plan Planning will involve considering some what-if scenarios which isn’t exactly a joy to ponder but by word it is well worth doing. It is about contemplating what is important to you, so that your personal priorities govern future decisions. Planning will help you maintain control, at a time where you are at greatest risk of having no control. 2. Preferences Individuals need to establish a criteria along with their personal preferences, that need to be met. For instance, consider location and ask yourself, Do I want to be somewhere I live now? Somewhere closer to my family? Do I want to live in the hustle and bustle of an urban area or by the seaside? Additionally, the range of services and amenities need to be considered to ensure that they are suited to individual needs and preferred lifestyle. Ask yourself if there is a good physical therapy program to help me maintain my mobility? Does the physical environment appeal to The precinct has been named after one of the nation’s greatest thoroughbred racehorses, Bernborough which from 1941 to 1946, achieved 15 consecutive victories including winning the Doomben 10,000 and Doomben Cup in the same year. Developed over four stages, Bernborough Ascot will offer 300 oversized independent living apartments and a wide range of private resort-style facilities. Bernborough Ascot will feature one, two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouse style homes with views and

lunch at Ballina RSL Club enjoying the beautiful ocean views, the group could not resist a photo opportunity at the Big Prawn. Diversional Therapist Pam Grieg said many residents were looking forward to the seafood most of all. A scenic drive along the NSW coast and through Byron Bay followed the iconic photo opportunity before checking in at Mantra Twin Towns Resort for the night. Paula Fahy, 92, relished the holiday experience. “When I went into aged care, I didn’t think I would be doing this! It’s been fantastic, and we’ve been very well looked after.”

NSW

BE AWARE: BallyCara CEO and positive ageing advocate, Marcus Riley discusses making choices. me? Is green space important to me? 3. Research I’d strongly urge individuals to speak with people who possess direct experience of a village which ideally would be residents and families, but could also be staff, GP or other service providers associated with the village. It is vital to obtain full details regarding fees and charges as they may vary from place to place and high-quality finishes including state-of-the-art kitchens, stainless steel appliances and stone bench tops. Prices start at $485,000 for a one-bedroom apartment and $1.4 million for a penthouse. Info: bernboroughascot.com. ■ AURA Holdings is celebrating the success of several projects and is standing out from the major players in the industry. The company is developing and managing six communities in Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast and Toowoomba, with another five in planning stages.

identify those ‘hidden costs’ as well. 4. Ask Do your own research and speak with people that live there and key staff members – this will allow you to check that the organisation is aligned to your own values. 5. Understand Be proactive and seek your own legal advice so that you are completely clear and confident with the terms and conditions of your purchase and Aura Holdings anticipates this will result in more than 800 apartments in the pipeline. ■ SEASONS Aged Care has just celebrated10 years of offering an alternative aged care model where autonomy meets care. It has grown from one community to eight, but it’s not the bricks and mortar growth that means the most to this values-based organisation. The Seasons story continues with construction underway on Seasons Mango Hill Stage 2 and land already purchased for new communities at Holland Park, Tugun and the

ongoing arrangements. This is something you want to be clear-cut from the start. Mr Riley is CEO of BallyCara, a charitable organisation and public benevolent institution which provides accommodation, health, and care services for older people as well as a range of support and advisory functions to service-based industries.

Beaudesert region. ■ BOLTON Clarke’s Centaur Memorial community at Caloundra residential aged care clients haven’t given up going on holidays. Recently they went on their second annual road trip, this time to the Gold Coast, Ballina and Byron Bay. The 18 holiday-makers were accompanied by Bolton Clarke team members and volunteers. The annual holiday is a much-anticipated opportunity for bringing back memories and igniting the adventurous spirit in residents, many of whom are in their 90s. Following their day-one

LOVE is in the air at Mission Australia’s Benjamin Short Grove, as the aged care facility celebrates the engagement of two residents, Tim and Lynn. The couple is the first residents to become engaged at any of Mission Australia’s three aged care facilities, and the charity has marked the occasion with a celebratory engagement party. Tim and Lynn met at Benjamin Short Grove when Tim moved into the aged care facility in 2018. While the couple didn’t bond immediately, Tim’s support for Lynn during a difficult time in her life brought the pair together. The couple were engaged just a few months later. The couple’s love was celebrated at an engagement party organised by Mission Australia. Residents, friends and family enjoyed a barbeue lunch in the aged care facility’s beautiful garden. . Opened in 2017, Benjamin Short Grove provides aged care for people experiencing homelessness and disadvantage in the Orange and Cabonne Shire regions. ■ IRT Group has received development approval for a staged redevelopment of IRT Culburra Beach Aged Care Centre, on the South Coast of NSW east of Nowra. The redevelopment will see the construction of a new 26-suite wing on the vacant land north of the aged care centre, and refurbishment of existing buildings. As part of this commitment IRT has held a number of resident collaborative design workshops to help shape plans for the outdoor landscaped areas of the site. More collaborative design workshops will be held with residents in the coming months.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

BRAND INSIGHT

Change-making care Support given as you move over to retirement living

BRAND INSIGHTS TRICARE Stafford Lakes Retirement Community has recently partnered with Australia’s most trusted removalists, Allied Pickfords, to make the move into retirement living even easier for Queensland retirees. TriCare Stafford Lakes offers the best in resort-style retirement living on Brisbane’s northside, recently unveiling 24 new luxury apartments to its existing 66 units and extensive community facilities. The new ‘Westside’ development consists of two-bedroom apartments plus multi-purpose room, all with designer finishes and east facing balconies overlooking the Village’s stunning eco lake. TriCare retirement living manager Mark Norris says that many of their incoming residents have told him that moving as a senior carries its own difficulties.

“Our residents have found it to be both physically and mentally exhausting,” he said. “The prospect of packing up their much loved home can be an overwhelming experience as well as stressful and can often delay the decision to move into a retirement community. TriCare would like to make this transition easier by assisting in the move process.” Incoming residents who purchase a select unit between November 2019 and March 2020 will have up to $4000 of their move costs covered by TriCare Stafford Lakes. Working with a dedicated consultant, residents will be supported every step of the way. Mr Norris said the Allied Pickfords consultants would provide support, guidance and peace of mind to residents when they move into TriCare Stafford Lakes with a fully insured tailored service

CARE AND COMFORT: A bedroom view at TriCare Stafford Lakes. including packing and unpacking to ensure the move was seamless and stress free. Set around a picturesque eco lake, TriCare Stafford Lakes offers a wide range of

indoor and outdoor amenities providing residents with activities to keep up a great life. “Whether it be swimming in one of two in-ground pools or a workout in the fully

equipped gym our residents’ lead very active lifestyles,” Mr Norris said. Regular movie nights, musical events, dinners and the ever-popular Friday happy hour are highlights of the village’s

Photo: Contributed

busy social calendar. Terms and conditions apply. Contact TriCare Stafford Lakes Retirement Community for more, 07 3864 4500, www.tricare.com.au.

ISSUES

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Retiring into rental stress

How do we address challenges to ensure healthy communities

AUSTRALIA enjoys one of the highest life expectancies in the world, with one in seven individuals aged 65 and over. However, recent studies have found that a growing number of Australians are facing an uncertain housing future owing to fractured communication between government policies, particularly the Age Pension and Commonwealth Rental Assistance (CRA) programs. As a result, the “Golden years” lack lustre for many older adults, with 24 per cent of Australians aged 65 and over living below the poverty line, having an annual income of less than $22,300 per year. Beth, 94, has recently been forced to uproot her life and move from her house in Sydney to a small unit in Brisbane following the passing of her husband as she could not afford her house without her husband’s pension. She receives $933 a fortnight on the Widow’s Pension, however, this is still not sufficient to cover her rent of $1158 a fortnight. As a result, she is having to spend $300-400 a month out of her savings, forcing her to sell her car and take public transport, impacting her ability to access the community. “I couldn’t afford the

car any more so I had to take the bus … carrying groceries on there was far too hard for me so sometimes I went without.” Unfortunately, Beth’s story is not an uncommon one faced by today’s pensioners. ■ Decrease in Social Housing and Home Ownership The Australian Housing Report cited that the social housing stock is not keeping pace with the demands of low-income renters, forcing many to rent privately. The rising cost of private rentals is unaccounted for within the Age Pension and CRA payments, resulting in 48 per cent of pensioners experiencing rental stress. On average, rental cost across major states is $330 a week. Given the natural physical changes that come with age, finding suitable options with longer-term tenancy and home modifications is challenging to come across at an affordable price. This perpetual insecurity and the stress of housing costs are the source of anxiety, depression and stress for many pensioners. ■ Age Pension and CRA is Inadequate to Support a Decent Standard of Living A recent report by the Benevolent Society found that living on the Age Pension while living in private rental accommodation is the biggest indicator of poverty among older Australians.

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■ At a glance, when considering the 2019 Age Pension and CRA rates published by the Department of Human Services, the maximum available payments are: • Maximum Age Pension rates of $460 a week for singles and $698 a week for a couple. • Maximum CRA of $68 a week for singles and $64 a week for a couple. According to a 2019 Annual Superannuation Report Australia, these numbers are not adequate to support a

comfortable lifestyle (defined as purchasing basic living needs and occasional recreational activities), which was calculated to be $831 a week for singles and $1174 a week for couples. As a result, pensioners are having to resort to drastic measures to pay for rent. They have been reported to sacrifice basic living needs, including food, heating or cooling, medication and visits to the doctor, thus

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Maximum Age Pension rates of $460 a week for singles and $698 a week for a couple

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decreasing their quality of life. ■ What Can be Done to Support the Cause? Older Australians like Beth play a key role in building strong and healthy communities, contributing almost $39 billion each year in unpaid caring and volunteer work. To succeed in making change and improving the quality of life for older Australians, it is necessary to build upon supports in communities across Australia. Rental stress and financial insecurity do not have to be the way of the future for elderly Australians. ■ 1. Go to: fixpensionpoverty.org.au/ to find out more and join the Benevolent Society and National Seniors’ ‘Fix Pension Poverty Campaign’. This campaign aims to help reduce inequity among older Australians by lobbying for

parliamentarians to improve current policies on CRA and Age Pension payments for seniors. ■ 2. Sign the petition to support the Everybody’s Home ‘Fix the System Campaign’ on https://everybodyshome. com.au/petition/ which is lobbying to increase CRA payments and end the housing crisis for anyone in need. ■ 3. Lastly, continue to raise awareness among your friends, family, neighbours and co-workers.

■ This project is part of the ’Social Change in Occupational Therapy’ course (OCTY4207/7830). If you have any comments, queries or concerns, contact the course co-ordinator at t.aplin1@uq.edu.au.

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Community group guide

Community notes

TO ALLOW for readers’ requests for the publication of more neighbourhood news, please keep notices short (100 word max). If you would like to submit a photo ensure it is at least 180dpi or 500kb to 1mb in size and of faces. Email editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au.

WYNNUM REGION ORGANISED COMPUTING CLUB

SENIORS helping seniors. Our next meeting will be held upstairs at the Wynnum Manly Leagues Club at 10am for start at 10.30am on Tuesday, November 12. You can join the club, on the day, for an annual membership fee of $10. We offer classes that can be up to 4 weeks of 2 hours per week or some of lesser duration. The club welcomes anyone who would like to know more about their computers, laptops, tablets and phones and is run by volunteers. We are continuing with our popular “one on one” sessions, where a member has one on one learning with a specific coach for an hour, who happens to teach a subject selected by the member. Irrespective of the type or duration of a class they only cost $10. Our classes can

commence from a very basic level so don’t be afraid to make a start. For more information, phone Lavina on 0411 806 154 or go to wroccs.org.au.

SCOPE CLUB OF WYNNUM INC

WE ARE holding our annual Christmas Cent Auction on Saturday, November 16 at the RSL Hall Melville Terrace, Manly from 1pm for 1.30pm start. Entry $7 includes afternoon tea and Lucky Door Prize. Tickets $1 per sheet and raffles. All proceeds go to supplying Christmas hampers for struggling families in our local area. Phone Cheryl on 07 3890 4671 or email cherylhastings @optusnet.com.au.

FIT FAB AND FIFTY

A FREE workshop for women over fifty is giving ageless confidence and a new sense of self, health and wellbeing.

HIGH ACHIEVERS: Recipients of the National VIEW Club 'Making a Difference Award' are Janette Hoare, Kaye Gleeson and Cath Cramb. Run by Peta Gillian the event will give women the ability look, feel, taste and experience living life beyond 50. At this event guests will hear from an expert guest speaker and talk with women who love sharing advice based on their personal experiences around Fitness, Food and Friendships. The event is Free, it’s at Uniting Church Hall, 37 Riverhills Road, Middle Park, QLD

Saturday, November 9 from 9.30am-11.30am. Bookings can be made online, go to mudputty.com/activities. This event is supporting the Wesley Mission RedBag Appeal. For further inquiries, phone Peta Gillian on 0402 025 447.

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street Carina on the second Tuesday of every month (except Jan and Dec) and our coach trips are on the fourth Tuesday of every month (except Jan and Dec). The September outing to Majestic Theatre at Pomona was a fun day. We had an enjoyable morning and much laughter et the theatre. The atmosphere took us back many years with the restored white organ and the music and

the wonderful “Silent Movie” After a luncheon at Cooroy we returned home with many having a “Nanna Nap. The October meeting was a successful day with the Annual “Bring & Buy” our only fundraising event of the year. Our thanks to all who brought articles to Buy & those who bought them. We were entertained by the “Carina Men’s Shed CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

We believe lives are for living Carinity Home Care helps seniors across Queensland live full and independent lives in the comfort of their own homes and local communities, every day. We offer a full range of services from basic support to keep you healthy and safe at home, assisting with personal and nursing care, and getting you out and about. Our locally-based teams make it a priority to really listen and understand your individual needs and interests, and work with you to develop a tailored solution. Whatever you want to get out of life, we’ll work with you to make it happen.

Call us today on 1300 109 109 or email homecare@carinity.org.au Visit CarinityHomeCare.org.au HC013-1019

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Pine Rivers VIEW Club Member Elizabeth Hoffman presenting Nico De Rooy with a certificate for his interesting talk about snakes.

ROAD TRIP: CWA Sandgate branch members recently travelled out to Charleville to support "The Year of the Outback".

FROM PAGE 29

between November 29 and January 15 phone the number supplied. Enoggera Memorial Hall is located at the corner of Wardell and Trundle streets; entry via Trundle Street. Limited parking is available, accessed by either Pratt Street or Glenalva Terrace. Council bus routes 350 361 390 598 and 599 stop near the hall and Enoggera Station on the Ferny Grove line is a short walk. Looking for a suitable Christmas gift? Our range of local history books is available at the hall. Contact us by our website or phone Dave on 07 3366 3191 or by email dlivett@optusnet.com.au.

Choir” which we all enjoyed & our thanks for being with us on many occasions. The Guest Speaker for the November meeting will be a representive from The Carina Library. November will be a very busy month with Melbourne Cup at Edmond St, Carina. Christmas Luncheon at Carina Leagues Club on November 26. We also have our final trip of the year “Brisbane & Moreto Discovery Trip”. We would like to thank all our supporters & volunteers for their attendance during the year. For further information, phone Maureen on 07 3398 4236 or Eddie 07 3395 3337.

PINE RIVERS SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB

WE MEET at The Kallangur Community Hall, 1480 Anzac Avenue, Kallangur. Our activities include: Indoor Bowls Held every Tuesday at 9am. Live Concerts - Held every second Wednesday of month 9am start morning tea included. Bus Trips - Held every third Wednesday of month. Bingo - Held last Wednesday of each month, 9am start, morning tea included. Outdoor Games - Held every seond and last Wednesday of month. Cost of membership per year is $7. Cost of each activity is $4 except for bus trips. For more information, phone President/Secretary Maureen Evans or Caroline Adam on 07 3481 0732 or0413 704 511or just come along to the club.

U3A

Pine Rivers U3A Pine Rivers will be holding our annual “Open

Day” on Thursday 14 November 2019 from 9.30am to 12.30pm at the Strathpine Community Centre, Mecklem Street, Strathpine. Our program of activities on show will include Exercise, Choir, Music and Dance. Tutors will display information regarding their classes and various activities. Memberships and renewals will be accepted on the day. A free shuttle bus will operate from the Strathpine Shopping Centre to the Community Centre for your convenience. For further enquiries please telephone 3880 6677, Monday to Friday mornings.

CARINA SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB

BRING your friends along to celebrate Melbourne Cup Day on Tuesday, November 5 from 10am-2pm at 1 Edmond Street, Carina. Cost $15 and receive bubbles and punch on arrival. Please bring a plate of morning tea or finger food to share. Sweeps available and watch the races on the big screen. For more information, phone 07 3395 4636.

LOTUS VANA AGED & DISABILITY SERVICES

LOTUS Vana proudly facilitates a senior’s social group, in addition to an NDIS approved program for people 18 years plus with disability, in Logan Village. With engaging activities including art and craft, music, games, and delicious food, we believe in uniting our community through restoring connections and social inclusion. In addition we host events such as fundraising BBQ’s, the Pub Lane Markets, and participate in local functions including the

Mental Health Wellness Walk. We warmly welcome new attendees, in addition to people wishing to volunteer and make a difference in our beautiful city. Phone 0431 152 547 or 0432 562 181 today.

MITCHELTON AND DISTICT GARDEN CLUB

ON THURSDAY, November 7, we will meet at the Enoggera Memorial Hall, in Trundle Street. African Violets is the topic of guest speakers, Althea and Barry Connor. The meeting commences after morning tea served at 9.45am. Visitors and new members are most welcome. The December meeting on the 5th will be for members and invited guests only, and will consist of end of year activities such as presentation of prizes to successful exhibitors, celebration of the club’s 55th anniversary which occurred last month, and other entertainment. This club will then go into recess until the first Thursday in February 2020. The hall is accessible by wheel chair and close to public transport. For more information phone Pat, the president on 07 3356 1256.

ENOGGERA & DISTRICTS HISTORICAL SOCIETY INC

IN DECEMBER we will cap off a successful silver anniversary year by unveiling a commemorative plaque in our research library in Enoggera Memorial Hall. We then go into recess for a month before our 26th year opens on January16. For those wanting to visit our library we will be open every Thursday between 9-1.30 until November 28. Should you want to contact us any time

NSAA (QLD) INC. BRISBANE NORTH WEST BRANCH

THE association exists for the welfare and benefit of Australian nashos called up for either of the two schemes operating between 1951 and 1973 and their wives and widows. Conscripts who served a country other than Australia are welcome to join as associate members. To discover the benefits of membership; to apply for either of the two medals available to Australian nashos or to find a branch near you, phone 07 3324 1277 or consult, go to nashoqld.org.au. Brisbane North West branch meets at Gaythorne RSL on the third Sunday of each month (next October 20) commencing 10.15. Visitors and new members are welcome. After the meeting take the opportunity to join fellow members for lunch in the bistro bar. For further information phone Dave on 07 3366 3191 or email dlivett@optusnet.com.au.

NORTH MORETON QLD ORCHID

COUNCIL INC

WE WILL hold our Summer Orchid Show at The Auditorium, Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens, Toowong on Saturday, November 2 from 8.30am-3.30pm and Sunday, November 3 from 8.30am-3pm. Admire displays of beautiful orchids and browse the sales tables for a future prize winner of your own! Helpful growers always on hand to give advice. Watch orchid repotting demonstrations. Buy all your orchid growing needs at the trade tables. Light refreshments and craft for sale. Raffle of orchids and foliage drawn at 3pm Sunday, winner advised by phone. Entry: Adults $4, Children under 14 yrs free. For more information, phone 07 3865 5615.

SLACKS CREEK SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB

COME join us. We would love to welcome you to our Senior Citizens’ Group every Tuesday from 9am-12noon at the Community Centre, 19 Nerida St, Rochedale. Play indoor bowls or be entertained by a concert group on alternate Tuesdays. Morning tea provided. Lunch (bring a plate) is enjoyed after the concert. For more information, phone Shirley on 07 3209 1682 or 0468 563 260. Mature aged women are very welcome to a social group for friendship, fun and information on healthy ageing.

OLDER WOMEN’S NETWORK QLD INC

Bribie Island WE HOLD our meetings on the third Thursday of the month from 10am. Next meeting is on November 19 at the Bribie Island RSL Club, 99 Toorbul St, Bongaree.

Phone Anne on 0408 007 370 or Older Women’s Network Queensland 07 3358 2301. You’re welcome to come along and meet new friends. Capalaba WE HOLD our meetings on the first Wednesday of the month from 9am. Next meeting is on November 4 at the Capalaba Uniting Church Hall, Cnr Ney Rd and Zandra St, Capalaba. Phone Naomi on 0424 060 603. You’re welcome to come along and meet new friends. Logan-Beenleigh MATURE aged women are very welcome to a social group for friendship, fun and information on healthy ageing. We meet fortnightly on Thursdays from 10am at the Beenleigh Neighbourhood Centre, 10 James St, Beenleigh. Next meeting is on November 14. Phone Linda on 0414 436 209 or Older Women’s Network Queensland 07 3358 2301. You’re welcome to come along and meet new friends. Mitchelton WE HOLD our meetings on the fourth Wednesday of the month from 10am. Next meeting is on November 27 at the Picabeen Community Centre, 22 Hoben St, Mitchelton. Phone Judith on 07 3351 3763 or Older Women’s Network Queensland 07 3358 2301. Woody Point WE HOLD our meetings on the second Tuesday of the month, 9.30am. Next meeting is on November 10 at the Woody Point Memorial Hall, Oxley Ave, Woody Point. Phone Helen on 0418 796 365 or Older Women’s Network Queensland 07 3358 2301. You’re welcome to come along and meet new friends. CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

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NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Chris and Heather showed their Melbourne Cup Party finery at the Newmarket VIEW club pre-party function.

EXCLUSIVE CLUB: Sue Colquhoun, Margaret Anne Wilson and Gloria Gledhill are all Life Members of the Stafford Garden Club.

FROM PAGE 32

Collaborative & Future looking. This award recognises, that through their tireless commitment and efforts, they have made significant contributions to VIEW’s overarching vision and mission. The Redcliffe Peninsula VIEW Club meets the second Thursday of each month, at the Moreton Bay Boat Club, Scarborough. We welcome new members who would like to contribute to the Smith Family Learning for Life Programe, while enjoying the camaraderie, sociable atmosphere and giving back to our local community. The Learning for Life Programe assists young people and their families to achieve educational objectives from Primary through to University, leading them towards a better future. The Redcliffe Peninsula VIEW Club currently support seven local students and their families through this programme. Email Anna at redcliffeview@gmail.com if you would like more information.

VIEW CLUBS

Centenary Evening WE ARE very grateful recipient of a grant from Round 101 of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund. This was announced recently by Mount Ommaney State Member, Jess Pugh. The money will be wisely spent on equipment needed for our meetings. Monday, December 9, will be the date of the next dinner meeting of the Centenary Evening VIEW Club. Meetings are held at the McLeod Country Golf Club, 61 Gertrude McLeod Crescent, Middle Park, 6:30 pm for 7 pm. The cost is $35 and bookings are essential. Please telephone the number above to make your booking and for more information. This is our Christmas meeting and members and guests will be celebrating the end of a very successful VIEW year. Our traditional Christmas-themed Bring and Buy stall will be conducted. Kenmore WE MEET on the third Monday of the month has a lunch meeting starting at 11.15am sharp at the Bellbowrie Tavern. The cost is $5 to attend. Bookings are essential with Robyn by the Friday prior on 0434 015 102. Our November Guest Speaker will be Christine King National President CWA. Kenmore VIEW supports 10 students on the Learning for Life programs as well as providing an opportunity for women to socialise with others through our book clubs, Mah jong and walking groups. Outings are arranged monthly to a range of interesting places. The club is arranging on November 12 for members to attend the Lord Mayor’s concert at City Hall followed by lunch afterwards. For more,go to facebook.com/Kenmore VIEWClub.

Logan OUR ladies attended The Annual VIEW Club Conference held on the Gold Coast in September. Some of our VIEW club ladies were fortunate enough to meet, and listen to Dr Craig Challen, SC, OAM .Dr Challen was a key note speaker at the VIEW Conference. By all accounts he gave a very informative and interesting address. He is a Veterinary surgeon by profession, and an Australian technical diver and cave explorer. In 2009 he was awarded the Oztec Diver of the year award for his services to caving. In 2019 he was joint winner of The AUSTRALIAN of the Year. In 2018 Craig, along with his dive partner Richard Harris was involved in a cave rescue of 12 children and an adult from a cave in Thailand. Craig also has the Medal of the Order of Australia. Craig Challen , very importantly, is The Smith Family’s National Ambassador. The annual VIEW club conference is held to gather VIEW members from all over Australia. It is run over 3 days in a different venue each year. In 2020 the conference will be in Adelaide, South Australia. The conferences entail interesting speakers of note, serious discussions, fun, friendship and making new connections and friends. Newmarket LUNCHTIME meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday of month from 10.30am for 11am start at the Gaythorne RSL Club. We are a small, friendly club seeking community-minded women. VIEW members come from all walks of life, and we would be delighted if you could join us in our mission to provide better educational opportunities for young Australians. We would welcome you as a visitor to our Lunch Meetings

and so perhaps become a member of our Club. If you wish to know more phone Estelle on 07 3356 7598. Pine Rivers VIEW members support the education of disadvantaged Australian children by raising much needed funds for The Smith Family. Through fundraising activities and social events in local communities, members raise money that goes directly to The Smith Family’s learning and mentoring programs for disadvantaged students. In 2018-19, VIEW members raised more than $1 million for The Smith Family’s programs. VIEW members nationally sponsor more than 1,350 disadvantaged Australian students, through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, enabling these children and young people to get the most from their education. Redcliffe Peninsula WE CELEBRATED our 19th Birthday at the October monthly meeting at the Moreton Bay Boat Club, Scarborough. The members where delighted and entertained by duo Romio & Juliette, before enjoying a delicious lunch. This was followed by the cutting of our Birthday cake by three of our very own members: Janette Hoare, Kaye Gleeson and Cath Cramb, all recipients of the National VIEW Club ‘Making a Difference Award’. This award is given to those members of VIEW from across Australia, who are active role models of one or more of VIEW’s guiding principles, above and beyond the normal expectations. The awardees of the Redcliffe VIEW Club have been members of VIEW for many years and actively demonstrate the core values of being Inclusive and Welcoming; Diverse and Respecting; Supportive and Caring; Locally focused while Nationally active; and

STAFFORD GARDEN CLUB

A 20-YEAR apprenticeship can be strenuous, but two people have just finished theirs. Looking remarkably unfazed by such a rigorous intern-ship, Sue Colquhoun and Gloria Gledhill were recently awarded Life Membership of Stafford Garden Club, having been members for 20 years. To get this recognition, they cheerfully worked their way through a demanding 20 year schedule. Sue is currently President, having previously been treasurer, newsletter editor and daytrip planner, while Gloria puts out a monthly Club newsletter, having previously looked after publicity and before that helped to plan the multi-location daytrips

that Stafford Garden Club members enjoy so much. The awards were made by another Life Member, Margaret Anne Wilson. In one day, Leonie Kearney’s huge, marvellous, Samsonvale garden; lunch at the Bribie Bowls Club (water views); the Butterfly House on Bribie Island complete with informative guide, and a local garden viewing on the way back to base. A typical day trip, if you belong to Stafford Garden Club. A few times a year, Stafford Garden Club organises a coach trip with multiple destinations. There’s a sense of adventure as a group of people set off, often returning to find that an acquaintance has become a friend - and having had a great time.

PROBUS CLUBS

Chelmer and District WE MEET at the Croll Memorial Precinct, 2 Clewley St, Corinda (opposite Sherwood Services Club) on the fourth Tuesday of the month (except December) at 9.45am. We have our monthly meeting then a friendly chat over morning tea, followed by a guest speaker covering a wide and interesting range of topics. Members also get together for regular outings, a garden group, a walking group, theatre visits, a book swap and other activities. We welcome retired men and women from Chelmer to Oxley and all surrounding suburbs who wish to join in the fun, friendship and fellowship of Probus and meet for club meetings and outings with other active, like-minded retirees. Phone Kathy on 0408 735 823 for details. Forest Lake TUESDAY, October 1 marked the International Day for Older Persons – a United Nations initiative that encourages the celebration of seniors in our community. The first day in October is the day

on which it has been held annually since 1991. The theme for 2019 was “The Journey to Age Equality”. The day is celebrated by raising awareness about issues affecting the senior members of our communities. It is also a day to appreciate the contributions that older people make to society. Forest Lake Probus Club provides a platform for older people to enjoy social activities and be a part of the local community. We aim to encourage people regardless of their age or personal circumstances, to participate and be included in t heir communities, be resilient and enjoy social and economic wellbeing. Our activities are many and varied.The committee is busy planning our Christmas Party next month at The Lion Richlands. We have terrific entertainment lined up and with the help of our local politicians we aim to keep the price as reasonable as possible for members. Our next Probus Club meeting is on Tuesday, November 12 commencing at 10.30am at The Lion, Richlands, so please give it a thought and if interested please contact our Membership Officer, Ellen, on 07 3879 7784 or Secretary Barbara on 0422 817 924. Wavell THE guest speaker for October was Bev Isdale from the Chermside Historical Society. Bev spoke about the history of the area within the former Kedron Shire (prior to the declaration of the Brisbane City Council in 1859), which included 17 suburbs from Bridgeman Downs in the west to Boondall in the east, from Bald Hills in the north to Kedron in the south. The talk was well presented and very informative. We welcome active retired CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

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FOREST LAKE FIFTY PLUS CLUB

Forest Lake Fifty Plus Club members enjoyed a day out at the Awassi Sheep Farm at Grantham. FROM PAGE 34 and semi-retired singles or couples as new members who are interested in fun, friendship and fellowship. Monthly meetings with a guest speaker, local day tours, picnics and theatre outings are part of the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities. We meet on the first Tuesday of each month at 10am at Geebung RSL Club. Bus and rail transport are virtually at the door and there are adequate car parking facilities. Contact the Club Secretary Catherine Finlay, via email 52catherine03 @gmail.com or via phone 0401 949 646 or Peter

Bartlem on 07 3350 1605.

QCWA SANDGATE

MEMBERS recently completed a 4 day tour to Charleville, in support of the Year of the Outback and to meet with many of their Country members along the way. The group travelled through Miles, Dalby and Chinchilla where they met with member s of the CWA Chinchilla and CWA Wychie branches over lunch, travelling onto Yuleba and stopping overnight in Roma, visiting many of the local attractions, including the Big Rig Oil and Gas Night show and Romas largest Bottle Tree, a magnificent

tree. After an interesting tour of the historical town of Roma, they joined members of the CWA Roma branch in the celebrations for their International Day lunch, another chance to talk with many wonderful women and share experiences of life in the Outback. The group then travelled onto Charleville to meet with members from the CWA Charleville branch.Completing over 1300 kms in their 4 day adventure, the group all agreed it had been a wonderful experience to meet with so many of their country members who are all so warm and friendly and incredibly resilient in the devastating drought

OUR October trip was to the Awassi Sheep Farm at Grantham. The Forest Lake Fifty Plus Club meet on the third Friday of the month at The Lion, Pine Road, Richlands at 10.30am. Date claimers for the next two meetings are November 15 and & January 17. For more information on the Club and its activities, phone Leonie, President on 0427 846 057 or Les, Activities Officer on 0466 377 618 to register your interest, email fl50plusc@gmail.com. New members welcome.

BRISBANE FAIR TRADE CHRISTMAS MARKET

THE vibrant Brisbane Fair Trade Christmas Market is on again for 2019! Word is spreading and anticipation is growing, as market-goers

seeking ethically-created, handcrafted items from around the world await the increasingly popular Fair Trade market just in time for Christmas shopping. With handmade items from artisan communities in Africa, Asia, South America and beyond, this unique market is a yearly celebration of global community partnerships, ethical purchasing practices, and shared opportunities to support vulnerable people across the world. Market will be held at the Western Stand in the Track and Field

Room, Queensland Sports and Athletics Centre, Kessels Rd, Nathan (Old ANZ stadium) on November 23 and 24. Opening hours are 8am-6pm on Saturday, and 8am-3pm on Sunday. Entry and parking are free, the market is fully indoors, with disabled access and air conditioning. Inquiries can be directed to Siham Craftlink via email sihamcraft @optusnet.com.au or phone 0413 627 139.

Free 4 sale classifieds Email your ad to advertising@seniors newspaper.com.au. Max is $500 and one item only per month. AIRBED Coleman Single High Blow Up. As New. Foot Pump included. Ideal for

camping or spare bed. $35. PH 0407 625 139. Caboolture. JIGSAW PUZZLES Orient Line 1000pce. Never Opened. $5. PH 0406 599 079. Carindale.

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SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

Film, markets art and ballet Kerry Heaney

FEATURE EVENT

THE Australian premiere season of The Revisionist, written by Academy Award nominee Jesse Eisenberg and presented by Refraction Theatre, will be performed at Metro Arts from November 7–14. Eisenberg’s Academy Award nomination was for his performance as Mark Zuckerberg in The Social Network. The play starts when young writer David arrives in Poland with a crippling case of writer’s block and a desire to be left alone. His 75-year-old second cousin Maria welcomes him with a fervent need to connect with her distant American family. As their relationship develops, she reveals details about her post-war past that test their ideas of what it means to be a family. The Revisionist is a stunning exploration of obsession, secrets and the nature of family. It stars Kate Wilson and Michael Mandalios, with direction by Caroline Dunphy. Go to pozible.com/project/therevisionist-at-metro-arts.

BROMS ON SHOW

EXPLORE the world of bromeliads, tropicals and indoor plants to orchids, hoyas, begonias and succulents at the Bromeliad and Tropicals Show and Sales on November 2–3 at Belmont Shooting Complex. Presented by the Bromeliad Society of

Queensland (BSQ), this popular two-day family-friendly event will feature thousands of plants for sale and free advice from experienced growers. Go to broms queensland.com.au.

FINDERS KEEPERS

AUSTRALIA’S leading design market takes over the Brisbane Showgrounds at Bowen Hills from Friday, November 8 until Sunday, November 10. This market champions creativity and features the work of independent makers and designers from across Australia. Go to thefinderskeepers.com.

WILD ART

QUEENSLAND Wildlife Artists Society Inc invites you and your family to its annual exhibition and sale event at Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens Auditorium from November 7–10. Enjoy a stunning display of original art inspired by Australia’s native animals and unique flora and fauna. Complementing the showcase are books, cards and prints available for sale. Go to qldwildlifeartists.com.au.

BESPOKE BALLET

MORE than dance, Bespoke is a multi-sensory experience bringing together artists to disrupt the norm by interlacing technology and dance at Brisbane Powerhouse from November 8–. It is a place where artists inspire each other to create ground-breaking,

What's on

thought-provoking and relevant new works. This season’s choreographers include Queensland Ballet’s own rising talent Jack Lister, as well as collaborations with independent dance makers Craig Davidson and Gabrielle Nankivell. Gabrielle’s work will also feature artists from Expressions Dance Company. Bespoke will begin outside the theatre, creating a sensory dance experience with a dance film directed and choreographed by Cass Mortimer Eipper and filmmakers Pixelframe, alongside a photography installation of works by David Kelly. Go to brisbane powerhouse.org.

IT’S A WONDERLAND

SHOWCASING burlesque, circus, cabaret, music, comedy, poetry, theatre and variety shows from both international and Australian artists, Wonderland Festival from November 21–December 1 is set to take over Brisbane Powerhouse. Expect a cavalcade of fearless physical feats, captivating live music, won’t-believe-your-eyes magic and laugh-out-loud comedy. The 30 spectacular events have been hand picked to surprise and delight,

FAMILY MATTERS: The Revisionist is a stunning exploration of obsession, secrets and the nature of family. It stars Kate Wilson and Michael Mandalios, with direction by Caroline Dunphy. Photo: Kenn Santos with a line-up of talented performers. Go to brisbane powerhouse.org.

CHRISTMAS ACTUALLY

HEAD to La Boite Theatre from November 27–December 7 and enjoy all the hits from beloved holiday classic Love Actually wrapped up with a sprig of holly, comedy and charm in Christmas Actually.

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Bursting with nativity lobsters (yes, more than one), cinnamon sticks and endless fun, Christmas Actually is the ultimate silly season starter. Go to laboite.com.au.

CHRISTMAS MARKET

HISTORIC Karuna House at Windsor will again open its doors on November 29 and welcome guests to take

part in Karuna Hospice’s major fundraising event of the year. Get ready to fill your Christmas gift bags with unique gifts, decorations and festive foods while you enjoy the live music. Funds raised go towards the Karuna Hospice Service — an in-home palliative care service for the Brisbane North region. Go to karuna.org.au.

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More local news. Now easier to read.

From next month, you’ll notice our new, easier-to-read size. Even though we’re changing the size of the paper, we’ll continue to bring you more of the local stories that matter. With our new look and feel, and more local news than ever before, we’re fitting more of the news you care about into a handier size. We’re excited about the changes coming. It’s all part of our commitment to covering the news that matters and our mission to make your favourite papers even better.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

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• 2 Nights Ballarat • 3 Nights Melbourne • Dubbo Zoo • Puffing Billy Steam & Cuisine Lunch • Ballarat Begonia Festival & Grand Parade • Old Gippstown • Gippsland Lake Cruise • Omeo & Great Alpine Road

• 4 Nights Coffs Harbour • Waterfall Way Sightseeing • Dorrigo Rainforest Centre & Skywalk • Trail Bay Gaol, South West Rocks • Bowraville Folk Museum • Harbourside Markets • Butterfly House • Clog Barn

• 3 Nights Albury • Bright Autumn Festival • Benalla Wall Art • Heartbeat of the Murray Laser Show • Silo Art Trail • Grampians Sightseeing • Twelve Apostles • Great Ocean Road • National Wool Museum, Geelong

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NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS TRAVEL BRIEFS

NATURE’S BLISS IN KARUIZAWA

LOCATED just 90 minutes by train from Tokyo is the mountainside resort Hoshinoya Karuizawa. It is rich in greenery and life, and the Picchio Wildlife Research Center runs numerous nature walks and tours for you to spot some magnificent bird species. At the foot of the mountain is Tombu no yu, where you can relax in both an indoor and open-air bath while taking in the spectacular view. As night falls, you can hear the clatter of guests donning their yukata and geta clogs, making their way for a soak in the meditation bath. A limited offer is available for three-night stays from October to December. Info: hoshinoya.com/ karuizawa/en.

FLINDERS RANGES TOUR

JAPAN BLISS: Hoshinoya Karuizawa's rice terrace.

FLINDERS Ranges Odysseys has launched a new three-day Flinders Ranges Outback Tour beginning April 3, 2020. This twice-weekly tour offers exclusive accommodation and incredible food and wine, all while discovering the spectacular and rugged

Hoshinoya Karuizawa's Mizunami Room in summer. scenery of Wilpena Pound and the magnificent Flinders Ranges. Departing from Adelaide, guests will explore the 540 million-year-old Flinders Ranges in air-conditioned Mercedes Benz vehicles, in small, intimate groups of up to eight and accompanied by a local tour guide. Info: kangarooislandodysseys .com.au.

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW

IMAGINE a Coach Tour that combines the history and culture of Melbourne with the spectacular scenic beauty of the Dandenong Ranges and

the Great Ocean Road. This is Coastal Variety Tours 13-day trip to the Melbourne International Flower and Garden show which departs March 21, 2020, including home pick-ups from the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and Gold Coast. This tour will take you via the Pacific Hwy to Coffs Harbour, Sydney, NSW south coast, Bega and Lakes Entrance, arriving at Melbourne for the Southern Hemisphere’s largest and most-loved horticultural event – the international flower and garden show. Your Melbourne tour is not complete without experiencing the beautiful CONTINUED ON PAGE 41

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

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OUTBACK TRAVEL: Flinders Ranges's Rawnsley Park Eco Villas. FROM PAGE 40 mountain scenery while travelling aboard the Puffing Billy Stream Train and spectacular Great Ocean Road. There’s more to this tour and it’s well worth discovering for yourself by phoning Coastal Variety Tours for the full itinerary on 07 33436722

FIELD OF LIGHT EXTENDED

THE Field of Light at Uluru has been extended indefinitely. The exhibition called Tili Wiru Tjuta Nyakutjaku, or “looking at lots of beautiful lights” in local Pitjantjatjara, is made up of more than 50,000 slender stems crowned with radiant frosted-glass spheres over an area the size of nine football fields. Each evening, guests enjoy the Field of Light Uluru and each morning before sunrise, AAT Kings operates Field of Light Sunrise. Info: ayersrockresort.com.au/ fieldoflight.

MORE TOURS IN JANE GOODALL COLLECTION

G ADVENTURES has added its Dr Jane Goodall-endorsed collection of wildlife-focused tours for

2020 with 12 more adventures in Indonesia, Botswana, Belize, north-west USA, mainland Ecuador, the Arctic and Antarctic, and other destinations. All trips in the collection are endorsed by the UN Messenger of Peace, whose institute protects endangered species through conservation strategies that incorporate the needs of local communities, with the understanding that helping people saves wildlife. Info: gadventures.com.au/ jane-goodall.

FLY A380 IN DUBAI MALL

DUBAI Mall’s Emirates A380 Experience is the region’s only public A380 flight simulator. Enthusiasts can test their flying abilities, and those curious about the full experience of flying an A380 can take command of the cockpit for take-off, cruising and landing at thousands of international airports, including every airport in Emirates’ global network. A qualified instructor will be on hand to guide customers through the full experience. A variety of packages are available, starting

from 15-minute sessions all the way to 45-minute experiences. Info available at: emiratesa380experience .com.

CAIRNS CHRISTMAS CAPERS

Cairns, Kuranda, Port Douglas, Mossman Gorge, Daintree River Cruise, Sky Rail, Reef Casino Xmas Lunch, Dundess Restaurant, Harbour Cruise *6 Days Tour Only $1,590, *8 Days with Return Rail Fare, QPC Economy Seat $1,640, QPC Deluxe Rail Bed $1,990, Sole Use Room Add $400, Departure Dates: 21 December

A GOLDEN COAST CHRISTMAS

Gold Coast, Broadwater Cruise, Mermaid Beach, Tweed River Cruise, Xmas Day Lunch at The Star Casino, Coolangatta, Byron Bay, Mt Tambourine, Lunch at St Bernards with magical views over the Gold Coast. 5 Days from $1,590, Single add $400 Departure Dates: 23 December

SYDNEY BRIDGECLIMB

THE iconic BridgeClimb turns 21 this year. It operates four different climbs spanning from day to night. For bookings and information, go to bridgeclimb.com.

ECCENTRIC LIGHTNING RIDGE The most unique mining town in Australia, Lighting Ridge boasts with over 100yrs of opal mining history. Fossick for your own treasure on lands that 100mil years ago dinosaurs roamed. Visit Museums, Mines and Caves and even an artesian pool! 5 Days from $1,460 Departing 13th May 2020

TOTAL TASMANIA

Tasmania, “the Island of Inspiration” is an island of dramatic coastlines, quaint villages, convict-built heritage and magniﬁcent food and wine. Incl Hobart, Port Arthur, Derwent Bridge, Tamar Valley, Beauty Point, Cradle Mt & Gordon River Cruise. 11 Days, $3,490. Return Airfares $3,925 Departure Dates: 1st April 2020

ANDREW DENTON AND JENNIFER BYRNE JOIN CHIMU

CHIMU Adventures is hosting TV personalities Jennifer Byrne and Andrew Denton aboard its Antarctica Untouched voyage’s new small ship vessel the Ocean Endeavour, which departs November 22, 2020. The trip will raise funds for the Mawson's Huts Foundation. The voyage will see them share their passion for this destination with fewer than 200 other passengers through intimate lectures and discussions, and Chimu are overjoyed to be sharing the experience with them again. www.chimuadventures .com.au.

NEw ENGLAND HISTORICAL TRAIL *4 Days* – Depart Brisbane. Enjoy Historical Armidale, Glen Innes and Tenterﬁeld, Booloominbah & Saumarez Historical Homesteads, Standing Stones*, *Lunch at Abby of the Roses Manor 4 Days - $799 *PP Twin Share, Single add $195 *Departure Dates 2020: 25th March*

YAMBA & BYRON BAY 4 Days – Depart Brisbane. Enjoy lunches overlooking beautiful oceans, colourful ﬁshing trawlers and pelicans, also Clarence River Cruise. Picturesque Villages and Maclean, known as the Scottish Town of Australia. 4 Days - $699*, *PP Twin Share, Single $195 Departing: 27th February

TURTLE HATCHING OF MON REPOS

MELBOURNE FLOwER SHOw, 25TH ANNIvERSARY

4 Days – Depart Brisbane to see the Turtle hatchlings at Mon Repos. Mon Repos is a very special place; it supports the largest concentration of nesting marine turtles on the eastern coast. Here we can learn about the Mon Repos Turtles and their colourful history. Then enjoy a Burnett River Cruise, Visit a Bundaberg Bundy Rum Distillery and gorgeous Tin Can Bay. 4 Days - $799*, *PP Twin Share, Single $195

*4 Days* *– “25th Anniversary Show”* Depart Brisbane to Melbourne. Enjoy the International Flower and Garden Show with over 300 exhibits. We also visit Old Melbourne Gaol and Queen Victoria Markets, Old Treasury and Exhibition Buildings and tour the famous MCG Cricket Ground. 4 Days, Return Flights Included Ex, BNE $1480 *PP Twin Share, Single Add $195

Departing: 4th March

*Departure Dates 2020: 28th March*

CLASSIC SOUTHERN OUTBACk PUBS AND CUNNAMULLA

*8 Days* - *Classic Outback Pubs – if only the walls could talk! *Discover the pubs where Australian folklore characters came to life including “Dad & Dave” Rudd’s Pub, Stanthorpe, QLD oldest 1864 Nindigully Pub, 1866 Club Boutique Hotel, Cunnamulla Fella Centre, Charleville Cosmos Observatory & Historic Corones Hotel, Mitchell Great Artisan Hot Water Pools, Big Rig Night Show Roma, Dalby. *8 Days $2180*PP Twin Share, Single add $420, *Departure Dates 2020: 1st April*

ICONIC PUBS OF NORTH QUEENSLAND *10 Days* -Depart Brisbane to Cairns on the Spirit of QLD Train – See spectacular scenic destinations whilst visiting well known and historic pubs including the 1878 Court House Hotel, Port Douglas, highest pub in QLD Ravenshoe Hotel, the Iconic *“Pub with no Beer”* Ingham, 1901 Great Northern Hotel, Townsville, Charters Towers 1865 Eureka Hotel *10 Days with Return Rail Fare. QLD Pension Economy Seat $1840. QLD Pension Deluxe Rail Bed $2190. Seniors Card Deluxe Rail Bed $2480 *Departure Dates 2020: 28th April 25th July; 19th Sep*

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OUTBACK TRAVEL: Flinders Ranges's Wilpena Pound.

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Great days of rail travel

A train lover buys and renovates unused trains Tania Phillips THERE is something romantic and nostalgic about overnight train journeys – the chance to unpack once and just sit back and enjoy the sound of the train and the sights out the window. For many of us over 50 it takes us back to the days of summer holidays and school trips when getting anywhere without being crammed into the back of the Holden station wagon meant getting on the train. And for those growing up in the southern states, that meant taking the glorious old Southern Aurora – something you can do again thanks to the Vintage Rail Journeys company. According to company CEO and self-confessed train lover Simon Mitchell, the Southern Aurora sleeping carriages have been restored to their sparkling 1960s condition and reinstated back into service under the new name of Aurora Australis. “We have kept the carriages in as close to original condition as we could,” Simon said. “Mid-century vintage is very ‘on trend’ right now and as custodians we are proud to be able to maintain the heritage of these carriages.” While the company has, where possible, kept the vinyl wallpaper along with features such as the original light fittings, there has been some modernisation. “However, we have updated the share bathrooms in the single compartment carriages, removed ashtrays and added modern

conveniences such as USB sockets,” Simon said. The Southern Aurora provided an overnight shuttle service from Sydney to Melbourne (and return) until the mid-1980s. Considered first class in its day, the Southern Aurora provided air-conditioned luxury to its passengers. Simon himself had been a passenger in the carriages in the past, joining train trips run by the Canberra Railway Museum, so when the Australian Railway Historical Society (ACT) went into receivership he knew he had to do something to return them to service. “I have always been interested in trains and rail heritage,” he said, “and I felt strongly that we needed to put the Southern Aurora train back together and allow people to enjoy travelling on her again.” The trains are now back on the tracks, with the company developing a Golden West Trail Tour which does a loop that transports passengers from Sydney and takes in the Hunter, Dubbo, Orange, Werris Creek and the Blue Mountains, mainly aimed at those of us who still remember what it was like to ride this iconic train or wished we had. “We have found that the over-55s have a real nostalgia for train travel,” Simon said. “In the 1960s, the Southern Aurora was a first-class train used by travellers to go from Sydney to Melbourne and back. “At the time, travelling on the train was aspirational and in talking with passengers for our

VINTAGE RESTORATION: A chance to enjoy the nostalgia of train-travel.

Photo: RailGallery.com.au (C)

‘‘

Mid-century vintage is very ‘on trend’ right now The Southern Aurora - now renamed Aurora Australis.

Photo: RailGallery.com.au (C)

rail tours, the train is still held in high regard.” The first Golden West Trail Tour set for April 1-5 next year sold out within three months and tickets for September 9-13 are

now selling well. “We have developed the Golden West Rail Tour mainly for the over-55s – it is an iconic five-day and four-night itinerary over 1500km that we think

everyone will enjoy,” Simon said. “Starting in the heart of Sydney, we have off-train experiences that include the always popular Riverboat Postman and

also some out of the way places in NSW that you may not have experienced before.” For further information and a full itinerary: Go to: vintagerailjourneys .com.au to book or call 1300 421 422.

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New gold in Gympie Kerry Heaney

Breakfast is served at Amamoor Lodge. Photo: K. Heaney

The train travels 46 kilometres from Gympie to the sleepy centre of Amamoor. It’s a leisurely hour-long, one-way journey with plenty of small scenic villages surrounded by farming and food-producing land, criss-crossed by tracks, trails and waterways to see. Click Clack Cafe at Amamoor Station is where you can enjoy a coffee and Janell Cox’s home-made scones while you watch how they turn the train around. There is usually locally grown produce for sale as well. Until recently, Mary Valley has been a bit of a hidden secret. It fell off the tourism radar in 2006 when many properties in the valley were resumed

so they could be swamped by the Traveston Dam. Not surprisingly, the locals lost hope when that was their future, but in 2009 the dam was canned. Since the dam debacle, this once sleepy spot has awoken and is blooming with new promise. There are Mary Valley eateries where you’ll want to eat more than your fill of farm-fresh and ethically raised produce to take home and comfy beds to sleep in so you can do it all again the next day. Fertile soils and rolling green hills have seen several primary producers set up in the valley. The area has proved a fertile field for feijoas, free-range chickens and pigs, pomelos and a wide range of other speciality crops

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MORNING SMILES: Bec Edmonds brings out breakfast at Kandanga Kitchen.

IT’S TIME to put new-look Gympie back on your radar and discover the gold grown on the hills rather than underground. A gateway to the lush Mary Valley, sleepy Gympie first came to fame when alluvial gold was discovered in the Mary River in 1867. Now it is drawing new treasure from its country roots to create destination highlights where the coffee is so good you could think you were in a city laneway. Soma Soma in Mellor St is a Gympie cafe with cred and even a little attitude. Its daily jamu (health tonic) made from freshly sliced ginger, turmeric and whole peppercorn tea will undoubtedly put some pep in your step. Another Gympie highlight is Platform No. 1 Cafe which draws its menu from the Mary Valley food bowl. Located at the historic Gympie railway station, it’s a perfect pit stop before you ride the restored Mary Valley Rattler.

which you will find at farm gate stalls. Taste the valley at Kandanga Kitchen where Bec Edmonds and Trent Kirkwood have crafted a creative menu with local showstoppers to fill you with great country flavours. When you have jam-packed that empty spot, take a wander through the Kandanga Farm Store next door where Amber and Tim Scott stock everything from locally grown fruit and vegetables to farm equipment. Pick up a new solid wooden-handled trowel and some tasty meat for your dinner at the same time. Just up the road at Amamoor Lodge, owners Christine and Malcolm Buckley will make you feel especially welcome with help from their friendly Director of Greetings, Chester the dog. There are rooms in the Queenslander-style lodge or self-contained studios.

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

‘‘

Pack your padded shorts and get ready for the ride of your life

’DAM GOOD TIME: Windmills and canals... these twin features of Amsterdam attract millions of tourists each year to one of Europe’s most popular destinations.

Photos: Graeme Wilson

The Van Gogh Museum celebrates the special genius of one of the world's best-known artists.

An Amsterdam sunrise is truly worth an early wake-up call. The shiny boats awaiting their next European river cruise just add to the allure.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

Rare view... Rembrandt is among the famous Dutch painters whose work is on display at Museum Square.

Bikes, bikes and more bikes. Special storage areas are available to the thousands of commuters.

BLOOMING LOVELY: The canals are pretty enough in their own right, but the frequent floral touches just add another level of beauty to Amsterdam.

It’s time to get on your bike to start exploring Graeme Wilson BIKES and bongs…these are my lasting impressions of Amsterdam. Oh, and windmills. And canals. And art. It’s taken me 60 years to navigate my way to the city of tulips, but it was well worth the wait. As a regular recreational cyclist, this city is made for me. Everywhere you go you’re surrounded by bikes of all shapes and sizes, and their proliferation seems to mean power to the pedallers. So none of the road rage associated with venturing out on Australian roads, where so often it’s an angry car v bike showdown. Live and let live seems to be the Dutch motto, and that suits me just fine. A leisurely pedal out to the historic windmill

Water features everywhere around Amsterdam... here it leaps skywards outside the Rijksmuseum.

The traditional wooden shoes (clogs/klompen) are an important part of Dutch heritage and are still worn in rural areas today.

village of Zaanse Schans (see Wanderlust cover) was a highlight of my three-night Amsterdam adventure. No helmet required, so it was a ride on the wild side with the wind in what

All your senses are alive in Amsterdam, but your nasal passages in particular certainly get a workout as you wander along the winding canals and alluring laneways. I’m not one to partake

little remains of my hair. My normally dormant arty side also came alive in Amsterdam, with a visit to the Van Gogh museum providing a great insight into this master of the easel.

in such things, but the distinctive aroma of cannabis is a regular reminder of the relaxed drug laws here. Perhaps fortunately, these accompanying pictures aren’t scratch

and smell, but hopefully they paint many thousand words of praise. If you ever get the chance to visit this unique city, pack your padded bike shorts and get ready for the ride of your life.

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

VIVA ELVIS: Diehard fan David Johnstone with an exact replica of one of Elvis's famous jumpsuits –- the only pieces in the museum which are copies rather than originals.

Photo: Alison Houston

The King’s Castle a portal through to Graceland ‘‘ Alison Houston

HOW much do you really know about Elvis Aaron Presley? You will find out at The King’s Castle – the Gold Coast’s new Elvis museum. Established by Greg Page – yes, the Yellow Wiggle – and David Johnstone – long-time Elvis tragic responsible for starting the first Viva Surfers Paradise Elvis tribute competition – the Coast museum is a “Kissing Cousin” to the original Parkes venue in NSW, and the two will rotate memorabilia every few months. The Colosseum room which houses the museum at the Gold Coast Italo-Australia Club is filled with treasures dividing Elvis’s life into sections – the early years, movie years, army, Elvis and Priscilla, Colonel Parker, the comeback and concert years. David said Greg admits to being a relatively new convert to Elvis. He was introduced to his music and to Graceland in 1999 by fellow band member Anthony Field – yes, the Blue Wiggle. At America’s

And what about the origins of that famous phrase “Elvis has left the building”?

Photos and personal details from Elvis's army years, an original Christmas card sent by Colonel Parker in 1959, and a cardboard display used to advertise Elvis's appearance as "the outstanding event of the TV season!". Photo: COURTESY THE KING'S CASTLE

second-most visited residence after the White House, Greg was fascinated to walk the same floors Elvis had walked, see the things he had loved, and to hear more about the man behind the image … and he wanted more. An authentic cheque signed by Elvis and framed with a photo was Greg’s first purchase some years later, and what followed was an enviable collection of about 1500 items over the years, including cars, furniture, guitars, books,

jewellery, scripts, letters, microphones, movie and personal clothing, accessories and more. Parkes, as home to the Elvis Festival each January, was the obvious place for Greg to first share his collection with the public. The original King’s Castle opened in 2009. But he always wanted to find a spot on the Gold Coast – Australia’s Vegas – and with the new Baz Lurhmann movie tracing Elvis’s (Austin Butler) relationship with his manager Colonel Parker

(Tom Hanks) soon to be filmed on the Coast, “it’s now or never”. But the project has had its hitches. The opening had to be delayed from its original July date to August 17 – eerily enough August 16 in the US, and the 42nd anniversary of Elvis dying in 1977 at the age of 42. While not huge, the museum is a comprehensive and authentic walk through Elvis’s life. David said even the most ardent fans invariably comment at one point or another, “I didn’t

know that”. For instance, did you know that every year Elvis would give $1000 to 50 Memphis charities, or that he was enthralled by the police and had his own collection of police mementos? And what about the origins of that famous phrase “Elvis has left the building”? David said that dates from Elvis’s earliest days, when girls would attempt to follow the then up-and-coming star after he played on the Louisiana Hayride broadcast, leaving the other bigger name artists without an audience. “Letting the girls know that he had left was a sort of appeal to them to come back and watch the rest of the show,” David said.

An original early press release by the Colonel referring to Elvis as “a fireball” with “no serious interest of heart” is among documents to be seen on the Coast, along with Elvis’s handwritten lyrics for Trouble and a humble letter penned to a fan. David said the aim was to let fans and historians alike know a little bit more about the times and the man whose bigger-than-life image arguably overtook the reality, but whose music lives on. The King’s Castle is open 10am-6pm daily in the Gold Coast Italo-Australia Club, 18 Fairway Dr, Clear Island Waters. Go to thekingscastle.com.au or phone 0447 491 511. Every three months the club hosts a live Elvis tribute show. The next concert, on January 18, will feature Australasia’s best tribute artist, Brody Finlay. Tickets are $10. Tickets to the King’s Castle are $25 adults, $18 concession and children over 13 – mention Seniors News to receive half-price entry until December 31.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

Wellbeing

GOOD BONE HEALTH

PREVENTION TIPS Diet: Ensure you are consuming enough calcium — three to four servings daily are recommended Aside from diary, good sources of calcium include almonds, green leafy vegetables, salmon, sardines and tofu. Exercise: Daily physical activity is important for the health and function of your bones. Increase Vitamin D: Vitamin D helps to absorb calcium into the body. Good sources of vitamin D include vegetables and oily fish. Quit smoking: Tobacco can affect hormone levels, which can impact how much calcium is absorbed. Limit alcohol intake: Excessive drinking can decrease bone density. Ultimately, early detection is vital. Bone conditions that aren’t detected and treated effectively can severely impact a person’s mobility and quality of life.

ADVOCATE: National Osteoporosis advocate Ita Buttrose (centre) with osteoporosis patients Elaine and Carol.

Osteoporosis national action plan under way Seniors News

OSTEOPOROSIS Australia and the Federal Government have launched the National Strategic Action Plan for Osteoporosis. The $4 million plan provides critical support to the 4.7 million Australians aged over 50 who live with poor bone health, and embarks on a preventative approach to reduce future bone fractures and the impact of osteoporosis on the Australian healthcare system. Just ask NSW Central Coast resident Carole. Her world was turned on its head when she celebrated her 50th birthday with a bone density scan at the request of her GP. Some 10 years before, Carole had sustained multiple bone fractures. What followed was intense treatment but also further fractures. Her healthy lifestyle and good diet weren’t enough. After being properly diagnosed with osteoporosis, Carole’s endocrinologist started her on medication, various forms of which

she has since tried. “You just don’t realise, or recognise, the damage that fractures can cause before they occur,” Carole, now 65, said. “It’s time that people took their bone health very seriously, and recognised that by taking action sooner rather than later, painful fractures may be avoided.” The National Strategic Action Plan on Osteoporosis has three key priorities — increasing osteoporosis awareness and education

with a focus on prevention; improving osteoporosis diagnosis, management and care; and data collection, monitoring and strategic research. The evidence-based plan provides a roadmap to improve the prevention, diagnosis and management of osteoporosis. The plan aims to reduce the personal and economic burden that osteoporosis and related fractures have on the community, and in particular, on older

Australians. Currently, 66 per cent of Australians aged over 50 are estimated to have poor bone health. Hip fractures remain the costliest type of fracture related to osteoporosis. Other types of fractures remain widespread — wrist, spinal, arm and leg fractures. While osteoporosis mainly affects women, men also need to check their bone health, with 25 per cent of cases occurring in men.

Info: osteoporosis.org.au

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THE basic rule is eat and drink plenty of calcium. Unless you have broken a bone, most of us will never have our bones examined closely. The fact is, with 206 bones in the adult body that help with everything from movement to protection, bone health is crucial and shouldn’t be overlooked, especially as we get older. Understanding bone health The bones that make up the skeleton are living, growing tissue and as a result new bone is constantly being made. As we get older, our bone mass decreases and bones become weaker. As we age, bone diseases such as arthritis and osteoporosis become more common; it’s estimated that 3.8 per cent of the population are living with osteoporosis. What is Osteoporosis Osteoporosis is a disease where the bone thickness decreases and bone quality is compromised, resulting in brittle bones. These bones become prone to breaks and fractures, even from the most minor bumps. While osteoporosis is more likely to occur in women aged over 50, it can strike anyone at any age. Risk Factors These are: age; previous broken/fractured bones — from only a minor fall/bump; being underweight; and family history. Screening – Bone Density Scan “It’s important for people with increased risk factors to ensure they ask their GP for a bone health assessment, especially given there are typically no symptoms in the early stages of bone loss,” Dr Uday Ahluwalia from PRP Imaging explained. “A bone density scan is recommended to provide an insight into the overall health of the bones.” The test will reveal whether the bone density is normal, whether there is bone loss and if further action needs to be taken to prevent worsening or whether the patient’s fracture risk is high and osteoporosis medication is required.

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WELLBEING

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

More PBS medicines SINCE October 1, cheaper medicine has become available for more than 500,000 patients with price reductions for common scripts and new medicines added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), in some cases saving more than $100,000 per patient. Medicines to treat lung cancer, lymphoblastic and acute leukaemia, and nausea associated with chemotherapy are now available to patients on the PBS for just $40.30 per script, or $6.50 with a concession card. A further $390 million in mandated price reductions across 175 medicine brands have also flowed through to patients, making medicines more affordable. The new or extending PBS listings include: Tecentriq® and Avastin® will be extended on the PBS to include first line treatment of patients with stage IV metastatic non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer. Without PBS subsidy it would cost

patients more than $11,400 per script (around 16 scripts per course of treatment); or more than $189,100 per course of treatment. An average of 755 patients per year (for six years) could benefit from this listing. Besponsa® will be extended on the PBS to include patients with relapsed or refractory Philadelphia chromosome positive B-ALL. Without PBS subsidy, patients would pay more than $44,500 per script (around three scripts per course of treatment); or more than $122,900 per course of treatment without subsidised access through the PBS. An average of 16 patients per year (for six years) could benefit from this listing. Blincyto® will be extended on the PBS to include patients with relapsed or refractory Philadelphia chromosome positive

B-ALL. Without PBS subsidy, patients would pay more than more than $74,900 per script (around two scripts per course of treatment); or more than $122,900 per course of treatment. An average of 16 patients per year (for six years) could benefit from this listing. Aprepitant APOTEX® will be made available through the PBS for the treatment of patients with nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. Without PBS subsidy, patients would pay more than $80 per script (around one script per course of treatment). In 2018, 7269 patients accessed a comparable treatment for this condition. Minister for Health Greg Hunt said every six months prices on a range of PBS medicines were also reduced. “With

these price reductions, a trip to the pharmacist will be cheaper for thousands of Australians, and more life-saving drugs can be listed on the PBS,” Mr Hunt said. Fifteen common medicines – sold as 175 medicine brands will be cheaper for general (non-concessional) patients, and these include: Pregabalin: around 208,000 patients per year who have seizures or nerve pain will now pay $28.27 per script for 75 mg capsules, a saving of up to $5.11 per script Ezetimibe: around 60,000 patients per year with high cholesterol levels will now pay $33.86 per script for 10 mg tablets, a saving of up to $6.44 per script Ezetimibe with

Simvastatin: about 245,000 patients with high cholesterol levels will now pay $37.77 per script for 10 mg tablets, a saving of up to $2.53 per script. Every medicine was recommended to the PBS by the independent expert Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee. By law the Federal Government cannot list a new medicine without a positive recommendation from the PBAC. From January 1, 2020 the threshold to receive free or further discounted medicines through the PBS will be lowered by 12 scripts for pensioners and concession card holders and the equivalent of two scripts for non-concession card holders.

MEDICAL FUNDING: Check if your medicine is now subsidised.

Helpful national map NATIONAL TOILET MAP

YOU can now carry the National Public Toilet Map in hand by downloading the Toilet Map from App Store or Google Play. The app lists more than 14,000 toilet locations across Australia. It includes information on their locations, opening hours and wheelchair accessibility. These details are also available from the website toiletmap.gov.au.

ACCESS TO LOCKED DISABILITY TOILETS

THE Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK) system allows people with a disability access to dedicated public facilities, including facilities in national parks and many council facilities, elevators at railway stations, the new Changing Places facilities throughout Australia, disabled toilets that are locked, and even the Liberty Swing. People with a disability are able to purchase a MLAK key, which will open all toilets and other facilities fitted with a lock that uses the special MLAK cylinder. Info: masterlocksmiths. com.au/mlak.

Incontinence: The answers to your questions IF YOU are in a muddle about incontinence, the Continence Foundation of Australia has some answers for you. ■ I am a 62-year-old woman with no bladder problems. Am I too old to start the pelvic floor-muscle exercises? You’re never too old. If you’re willing to listen and learn how to do the exercises, then your continence health professional is there to help you as well. These exercises have been taught to people in their 90s with great success. Our message to everyone, male or female and of any age, is to learn how to do these exercises and then continue to do them for life. Like all exercises, pelvic floor exercises are most effective when individually tailored and monitored. Seek help from a health professional like a continence and pelvic floor physiotherapist. ■ Can I get funding help

for my pads? There are different funding schemes available to eligible people with incontinence. The Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS) is a federally funded program. The eligibility criteria is available at bladderbowel .gov.au/caps. Another federal program is for people under 65 whose incontinence is a result of their disability. If this is you, then you can ask to have your continence products and funding for a continence nurse advisor assessment be included in your NDIS plan. You can phone the Helpline and talk to the staff about CAPS and NDIS. You can also ask for a CAPS application form to be posted to you, and for details of your closest continence service. ■ I’m in my late 60s and have been told that I need to have surgery on my prostate. The urologist referred me to the

HEALTH MANAGEMENT: Incontinence becomes more prevalent as people age.

Photo: RapidEye

Helpline for advice about my pelvic floor. It’s best to start your pelvic floor exercises sooner rather than later if

you are having prostate surgery. The Foundation’s Prostate and Continence — guide for men undergoing prostate

surgery is a good starting place. It goes through what the prostate is, where in the body it is located, how to do pelvic

floor exercises and health professionals who can help. You can order a free copy of the booklet by phoning the Helpline. You can also learn about the pelvic floor through videos on the pelvicfloorfirst.org.au website. For confidential advice, phone the free National Continence Helpline on 1800 330 066. To book a free, personalised Healthy Bladder and Bowel talk for your club or social group, contact the Foundation at continence.org.au/ healthpromotion or phone 1800 330 066. Remember, you can find the National Public Toilet Map using toiletmap.gov.au. Incontinence can affect men and women of any age, however, it does become more prevalent as people age. It shouldn’t be considered normal. With the right advice/ treatment it can often be cured, or otherwise managed.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

WELBBEING

Coping with cancer Tips on how to take care of your mental well-being

WHEN experiencing cancer, whether yourself or through a loved one, your mental health is often challenged. Trained psychologists have provided several tips to help Queenslanders improve their mental health. ■ Be active When you exercis,e your body releases stress-relieving hormones. Physical activity can be an effective way to “burn off” the effects of stress and lift mood. Start slowly and be kind to yourself — gradually build your endurance. ■ Go to bed on time Research shows that good sleep habits improve our mental wellbeing. Try going to bed at a regular time and build good habits into your sleep routine, like turning off screens at least an hour before bed. ■ Make some time for you The busyness of life can squeeze out time for

the activities that help you to unwind and recharge. Create spaces in each day to stop the busyness and just “be”! Think about the activities that help you to relax and feel good and make time to do them. ■ Deal with unhelpful thinking Take a step back and look at the problem from a different viewpoint. This can help us keep our reactions in check and cope better. ■ Take a break Take a break from what’s causing the stress. Sometimes doing a simple breathing exercise can help: Close your eyes and breath in to the count of four, hold for the count of four, and breath out for the count of six. Repeat this breathing pattern about 10 times. ■ Build a support circle Develop a support network around you; people you can open up to. It may include a trusted friend, your doctor,

HEALTH CARE: Being active can help your state of mind during illness. a work colleague. Talking to others can help you to make sense of how you are feeling. ■ Eat healthily Take steps towards a balanced diet and try to

limit sugary drinks and alcohol. ■ Practice gratitude Gratitude has been shown to improve wellbeing and mental health. To increase

feelings of gratitude, write a list of things that you are grateful for or keep a gratitude journal. If you or a loved one are

coping with a cancer diagnosis or challenges associated with survivorship, please know our Cancer Support and Information team are here to help. Phone 131 120.”

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Wearing a hat is critical. Aim for a wide brim rather than caps.

IN BRIEF

FUNDING BOOST FOR WA PALLIATIVE CARE

DEMENTIA Australia welcomes the announced $17.8 million funding boost for palliative care in Western Australia. Maree McCabe, CEO Dementia Australia, said the funding would help provide improved support and services for all Western Australians in need of palliative care, including those living with dementia. From the funding boost, $9 million will be used to provide an additional 10 in-patient palliative care beds in northern metropolitan suburbs. Community-based services across both metropolitan and regional Western Australia will be expanded to better meet demand via $6.3 million of the funding.

PROVIDER CALLS FOR LEADERSHIP

SUN SENSE: The scalp is a high-risk site which, if neglected, can lead to some nasty outcomes.

Photo: thodonal

Scalp protection tips Tracey Johnstone YOU may be very aware of regularly applying sunscreen on our face, hands, arms and even our legs, but what about taking care of your scalp? Dermatologist Dr Yan Pan says it’s an area of the body that is often neglected. “Hair loss can affect both genders,” Dr Pan said. “With females, as

they age, there will be thinning and increased parting of their hair on the scalp. It’s a risk that people should be aware of.” The scalp is a high-risk site which if neglected, can lead to some nasty outcomes. Protection ■ Wearing a hat is critical. Aim for a wide brim rather than relying on baseball caps. ■ Avoid relying on a visor for protection.

■ Treat wearing a hat like you treat putting on sunscreen; put it on as you head outdoors, particularly if you are going outside for an extended time. ■ Be aware of the UV index which you can find through the Sunsmart app which you can download from the App Store or Google Play. ■ Use sunscreen with a SPF factor of 30+, broad spectrum and is water-resistant. Apply 20

minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours. ■ Make sure the sunscreen you are using hasn’t expired. Detection ■ It can be hard to successfully self-examine your scalp health, so ask your partner, friends or hairdresser to look for you. ■ “Sometimes the skin cancer can be in hair-bearing areas which can be tricky to

self-assess,” Dr Pan advised. ■ If there is anything you are worried about, talk to your GP. They can then refer you to a specialist, if required. Skin examination “I think you should have your skin examined annually by your GP,” Dr Pan said. “For high-risk patients, it should be done more regularly.” For more information, go to www.sunsmart.com.au

Functional in-home dementia design

DESIGNING functional spaces in a home can help address the complex needs of people living with dementia. In his submission for the 2019 Alzheimer’s Disease International Annual Report, Associate Professor Colm Cunningham, a director of the HammondCare Dementia Centre, says being able to “see and sense” is vital as unfamiliar environments and situations within a home can cause a person to become stressed and confused. Prof Cunningham suggests design should include: ■ Kitchen — reduce clutter by clearing benches and workspaces of occasionally used

items and leaving out things that are needed every day, such as tea and coffee-making items. ■ Noise — reduce distracting noises from both radios and televisions. ■ Calm — create a calming space where the person has favourite and familiar items and to which they can retreat if feeling tired or overwhelmed. ■ Lights — adjust light levels, remembering that people with dementia and older people generally benefit from more light. ■ Signs — use signs and cues that reduce confusion or uncertainty such as in the kitchen; pictures work well as the ability to read words may be lost.

A NOT-FOR-PROFIT aged care provider has called for strong leadership to tackle workforce issues, with a Minister for Ageing sitting on Cabinet demonstrating a powerful commitment to Australia’s ageing popluation. Speaking at the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, Sandra Hills, CEO of Benetas and also a member of the Aged Care Workforce Industry Council, said there was much work to be done and this could not be done by the Workforce Council or providers alone. When asked by the counsel assisting if the Department of Health was providing enough leadership, Ms Hills responded with: “No, more leadership would be welcome.” The Aged Care Workforce Industry Council is charged with delivering 10 of the 14 Strategic Actions identified in Australia’s Aged Care Workforce Strategy,

TRAINING IN DEMENTIA CARE FOR WORKFORCE

DEMENTIA CARE: In-home design, including better lighting and using contrasting colours, are keys to managing patient needs. Photo: simpson33 ■ Colour — Introduce contrasting colours where needed as they can help people to understand the room and situation to find their way. “For example, having

contrasting bed linen so the bed is more obvious and a different colour top and bottom sheet that contrast to the floor makes finding and getting into bed easier

and can be the difference between needing assistance and getting into bed independently,” Prof Cunningham suggests.

DEMENTIA Australia is again joining broader calls for the government to implement national mandatory dementia education for the aged-care workforce. Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe said that ensuring the aged-care workforce was trained with skills that respond to the needs of people living with dementia, their families and carers was of vital importance to the quality of care provided to the growing number of Australians living with dementia.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

Music stimulation

Living

A gentle lilt of encouragement can make a world of difference Tracey Johnstone MUSIC can act as a positive behavioural change tool when used in the right way. It can connect people to the present through the past, acting to calm or stimulate those living with dementia, depression and anxiety. Professor Felicity Baker, head of music therapy at the University of Melbourne, and her team are using the pilot Homeside training program to show family carers how they can use music in a targeted way. “We know one of the most distressing things around caring for someone with dementia is when they stop recognising you,” she said. “Music can stimulate a stronger connection to the here and now, and to the past. There is a greater chance they will recognise the person that they are sharing these musical experiences with.” The program is not just about turning on the radio or putting a favourite CD and walking away. “It’s about using music for three things,” she said. “One is to manage the symptoms of dementia such as

agitation and disorientation and the aggression that people with dementia can sometimes display when they get confused. Two is to help the carer to cope better by using music for their wellbeing. The third aspect is around supporting the maintenance of a meaningful relationship between the carer and the person living with dementia.” Another aspect of the project is providing information for carers on how to choose what to read and how to read to a person with dementia to achieve a meaningful connection. During the running of the pilot program, the researchers will also collect health economic data to determine the impact of both the carer and the person living with dementia. “We will look at how much it will save the carer and how much money will it save society by keeping people better managed in their homes through these interventions,” Prof Baker said. In the meantime, she notes that music can have either stimulate or calm a person, so carers using this type of therapy need to tune in to responses and adapt what they play

MUSIC THERAPY: Using music can help both those living with dementia, their carers and family members.

Photo: SilviaJansen

and when they play the music. “Don’t assume that what worked yesterday will work today,” Prof Baker said. “People respond to music in different ways depending on how they are at that moment.” It may be that where a person living with dementia is agitated, the pace of singing needs to be modified to help reduce the anxiety of the aroused person, for example. “My first suggestion is

the carer explores the music that is meaningful to that person that they are caring for, not play what they like,” she said. “And not just have it playing in the background, but use it in a meaningful way. “It’s about taking the time to share that experience and after the piece of music has played, ask the person if it reminds them of something, and encourage them to connect with the

memories that are associated with that piece of music. “We want the music to stimulate auto-biographical recall so that they are remembering things from their past which are mostly pleasurable and as a result become more animated.” Study volunteers Prof Baker is looking for carers of people with dementia, who live in Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Melbourne, to

volunteer for the Homeside global research project which is being run across five countries. Her team will study how home carers use music in a targeted way to manage dementia symptoms, for their own wellbeing and supporting a meaningful relationship between the carer and the person living with dementia. To volunteer, email homeside-australia @unimelb.edu.au. Phone (03) 8344 4449.

A couple of points to know about returns to the retailers PARCEL delivery service CouriersPlease (CP) has done all the research on the legislation surrounding retailer returns, to help you understand your rights as a consumer.

■ The customer isn’t always right. Contrary to the popular saying, retailers are not required to provide you with a refund for every return. For example, the consumer guarantees –

such as the consumer right to return an item that doesn’t match its description, receive a repair or replacement for a faulty product and the right to cancel a service if it doesn’t offer the desired results, when they

purchase products or service – do not apply if you simply have a change of mind, find a cheaper alternative or find you no longer need it. In these instances, retailers are not required to right the wrong or offer a remedy.

■ No receipt? No problem. Legally, you do not need to provide a cash register receipt to return a product. As long as you can prove the item was purchased from that

store, you are entitled to a full refund. Proof of purchase can include a credit card statement, a lay-by agreement, or a confirmation or receipt number from a phone or online purchase.

How does your grandchild’s school compare? An exclusive education series every grandparent must read. To find out more visit education.news.com.au THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DECIDE YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE

LIVING

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Friends are important Tracey Johnstone AN OLD friend mentioned in a recent email to another school friend that I had just moved to town and was feeling lonely so could I be included in a reunion lunch. Coincidently, the email wasn’t supposed to have me copied in. When I read it, I felt quite miffed that I was seen as being lonely. It might have been true, but the public labelling of me in this way without me ever saying that was the case left me feeling lousy. There is a strong stigma associated with admitting you are lonely, Dr Barbara Neves, a senior sociology lecturer at Monash University, has found. “Particularly in later life,’’ she said. “This is because some older people already feel so stigmatised, so patronised because they are old and frail, and so loneliness adds another layer to a comprised sense of personhood and dignity, particularly in a society obsessed with being young.” But, is it that I am just alone rather than lonely? Al: “I never allow myself to (be) LONELY! Occupy your mind with activity that you’ve always wanted to do while you can. I love being on my own (not lonely).” Being alone is often when we choose to be by our self. Loneliness is something quite different. It’s not something that we can see; it’s a feeling, and it’s subjective. It comes from a lack of companionship, a sense of neglect, feeling as though you don’t belong. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare puts it simply: “Having a lower level of social contact than desired.” According to the AIHW, older Australians are at an increased risk of social isolation due to a number of environmental factors, primarily the loss of physical or mental capacity or the loss of friends and family members. It estimates that about one in five (19 per cent) of us are socially isolated. The highest rates occur in the largest urban regions and in sparsely populated states and territories. Margaret: “Groups are fine for some people…thankfully I don’t need them.” But what about Al and Margaret’s natural social

GET-TOGETHERS: Being part of something is a good feeling. needs? Humans are social animals and we need to belong. By forming meaningful relationships, we can stave off many major and costly health issues including depression, anxiety and possibly the onset of dementia. “Loneliness increases the risk of dementia by more than 40 per cent for older people,” Dr Neves said. ❚ Reach out Queensland University’s Professor Alex Haslam argues that we all need groups in our lives, but there is one very important component to groups that can make them work for you, and that is meaningfulness. “The critical thing that gets people out of loneliness, or drives them into it, is loss or gaining valued group memberships,” he said. Just spending time around other people isn’t necessarily the answer. If the people you are with aren’t valued by you, it can make things worse. “The critical thing is being a member of meaningful groups. “It’s not just about not having anyone to talk to; it’s about not being part of these groups that take you out of yourself or individuality.” Let’s face it, how often does some bright spark suggest you join this group or that group while not fully understanding what type of connection

you really need? So, being forced into a group isn’t necessarily the answer for you. You need to achieve a sense of being connected to that group and that means finding people who think the way you do. “The key message is that you should join groups, not which groups should you join,” Prof Haslam said. “Any group is good for you as soon as you can identify with it and it works for you. “It’s the meaningfulness of the group that matters, not the nature of the group,” he added. Ted: “You can choose to be lonely or not lonely. That said, you can be lonely in a relationship too. If I was to be lonely, I would rather be lonely on my own than in a bad relationship.” It’s the quality of relationships that is important as well. You need to surround yourself with people who mean something to you. That might be many or just one or two, but the critical choice is ensuring they complement you and allow you to be who you are. ❚ Change direction The first step is to realise loneliness is not your fault Dr Neves says. “It’s a social issue, not just an individual issue.” Chari: When my husband passed away eight years ago, my life went from being super

hectic to nothing doing. I learned how to keep myself busy by volunteering, watching movies, joining several groups of friends for regular lunch outings, and most importantly, I learned to do things on my own and enjoy it rather than wait for someone to do things with me. I still do feel lonely sometimes but that’s OK.” Secondly, you need to determine who you want to spend time with. “Trying to go around negative behaviours and being more open to quality time with others is crucial,” Dr Neves said. Her next tip is to find out what social activities are happening in your neighbourhood or retirement community, and that interest you. “It’s where you can meet people with similar interests,” she said. Pat: Best thing ever when I joined a VIEW Club. You can also look at where you can share your experience and knowledge within a volunteer role. “Volunteering and helping others can help with our own feelings and can help us see the value in ourselves,” Prof Haslam said. “Everyone has a role to play in helping to address loneliness. In our research we have found that helping other people is one of the best ways to stave it off yourself.” He says viewing your neighbour as someone who you can share

Photo: Cecilie_Arcurs

common group membership or a sense of identity with, consequently developing “us-ness’’, is a valuable “way to interact with them and the way you perceive them and the expectations you have around them”. “Beyond joining a group, you can also look at the relationships you have and see how you can make them better for you,” Dr Neve says. “And be open to new relationships.” Another idea from Beyond Blue is pets, particularly dogs, who provide constant companionship and unconditional love, and need to be kept active. They give you a purpose of getting you out of your home even when you’re feeling down, forcing you to be more active and opening opportunities for you to connect with others in your community. If you are still feeling lonely, then Dr Neves recommends you talk to a social worker or your GP. ❚ Social prescribing The Royal College of General Practitioners reports in its 2019 General Practice: Health of the Nation that psychological issues such as depression, mood disorders and anxiety “again appear as the most common health issue managed by GPs”. In the UK, GPs are being encouraged to connect these patients with relevant social

services. “Its impact is a bit mixed precisely because you are often imposing solutions or groups on people and doing that in a not very structured way,” Prof Haslam said. On a recent episode of the ABC show The Drum, former AMA president Kerryn Phelps explained the challenges around this type of health support approach as GPs are often only able to allocate 20 minutes for a consultation. “I think there is an artificial divide between psychological and physical illness,” she said. “The two almost always coexist. Somebody might present with trouble sleeping or a headache or some other somatic condition or physical symptom, whereas the underlying or coexisting condition is one of anxiety or depression or difficulty with life circumstances. And, of course, the GP is the first point of call and should be for someone suffering from any kind of health condition.” The burden lies with the GP who Dr Phelps says would find it almost impossible to provide sufficient support to a patient within a 20-minute consultation, especially when a patient does not express their psychological issue until the last minutes of an appointment. In Australia, University CONTINUED ON PAGE 53

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

LIVING

part of good health

GOOD COMPANY: Pets can be a great comfort. FROM PAGE 52 of Queensland’s Associate Professor Genevieve Dingle is leading The Ways to Wellness Social Isolation Project research team which is testing this social prescribing concept,

where patients are referred to a link worker and on to non-medical group programs in the community. Prof Dingle’s team are examining the effects of this social prescribing project with a view to developing a model that

Photo: Jevtic

can be implemented across Australia. ❚ Tackling the conversation head-on Talking to others about being lonely is hard. Often those that matter most to you will divert the conversation away from what you are trying to

voice rather than listen to what you have to say. If this keeps happening, there are free phone services you can contact so your concerns can be heard. “Although we are talking about strategies that people can take at the

Being on your own has merit, but not all the time. Photo:

kali9

individual level, it is important to think about our social responsibility,” Dr Neves said. “One thing that is extremely important is more initiatives to destigmatise loneliness and deconstruct the idea that loneliness is

associated with a personal weakness.” If any part of this story raises concerns, phone Lifeline 131 114, Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 or Red Cross Telecross, 1300 885 698.

Mutual support and meaningful connections THE team at Lively are young, enthusiastic and energised and ready to roll out their innovative intergenerational home-care service. The management group of four in their early 30s, led by Lively founder Anna Donaldson, are bringing to the aged-care space a new model for delivering in-home support which is a fresh, youthful approach Ms Donaldson says is sometimes lacking in the industry. “It’s about young and older people coming together and supporting each other in an enthusiastic and energetic way on both sides, and recognising both young and older people can be lively and have a whole lot to contribute and offer,” Ms Donaldson said. The not-for-profit organisation has been operating in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane for about four years, offering technology help to 700 older Australians. Last month it expanded its operations, after running

a pilot, launching its home-care service model in Melbourne. The service is based on the Netherlands’ Buurtzorg low-cost model which uses a local team of helpers who are established in a local community and work directly with people in that area with the autonomy to self-manage as a team, but supported by a central office. “Teams can then pop up anywhere around Australia in the near future rather than us growing to become a huge organisation,” she said. Ms Donaldson says the new business aims to address youth unemployment and underemployment while also tackling social isolation among older Australians, and the disconnection and ageism between the generations. “We train and employ job seekers in the 18 to 25 age bracket to work with older people in their local communities, providing support and

NEW MODEL: Lively’s newly launched home care service is working to build reciprocal relationships. Photo: Lively services that help older people maintain social connection and general wellbeing,” she added. “Through the process we try to facilitate and encourage the formation of meaningful relationships and friendships between the older and younger people where they are learning from the older people’s knowledge and experience, and breaking down some of the stereotypes, attitudes

and preconceptions young people might have about older community members.” The young workers are selected based on their attitudes, values and mindset instead of just their qualifications. Lively put them through an introductory course which Ms Donaldson says is about establishing an empathy and awareness of the people they will be working with.

“And (we do) some foundation work around their communication and interpersonal skills, and the skills they need to manage themselves in this environment,” she said. “We give them a lot of autonomy to be connected with the older clients and work with them to self-manage how they work together and support each other. “Through the training we impress on them the responsibility and

expectations of their role.” This approach is an innovative way of creating a new entry point for young people moving into working in aged care. “It gives them an introduction to the sector and a sense of how rewarding it is, and build their motivation to take on more training and qualifications.” The services provided will be basic support that doesn’t include personal care and support with mobility. The workers will be paid for doing simple tasks like gardening, shopping and jobs around the house The workers are paid through the Home Care Packages program. It’s a two-way relationship where both generations value getting to know each other, Ms Donaldson says. “We are trying to build reciprocal relationships where there is a sense of exchange,” she said. “The older person is contributing to the younger person rather than just receiving care and support.”

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Money

Hold tight and don’t react to things you can’t control

When best thing is to do nothing at all

Paul Clitheroe MAKING money doesn’t involve luck or kneejerk reactions. It’s about planning and perspective. But sometimes the hardest part for investors is doing nothing at all. Recent months have seen various headlines around share market movements – often along the lines of “billions wiped off Aussie shares”. Several things about these sorts of headlines bother me. First, the market value of the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) is measured in trillions of dollars – $1.9 trillion to be precise. So while

POSITIVE STEP: Plan for what you can control such as the fees you pay on your investments. Photo: SelectStock movements measured in billions may make for eye-catching headlines, they overlook the bigger picture – the sheer scale of the ASX. In addition, daily reports by their nature focus on short-term events. The issue here is

that growth assets such as shares are prone to ups and downs over short periods. That’s why equities are regarded as a long term investment – one you should plan to hold onto for at least five years. Over the past month for

instance, Aussie shares have dipped 1.42 per cent. But if we take a longer term view, investors have enjoyed average price gains of 4.7 per cent annually over the past five years. Bear in mind too that media reports focus on

price movements of equities. Yet this only tells part of the story. Shares can also generate lightly tax dividend income. For many investors this is the clincher that compensates for shortterm volatility. By way of example, over the past five years we’ve seen plenty of newsworthy events – such as the rise of cryptocurrencies, several changes of prime minister, the UK Brexit vote, and the so-called US/China trade war. Not surprisingly, many of these events have had an immediate impact on global share markets. Despite this, over that same five-year period Aussie shares have notched up total after-tax returns averaging 11.02 per cent annually once dividends and franking credits are taken into account. The upshot is that when InvestSMART clients ask me how much they should

be worried about headline risks, my response is “Not one bit”. As humans we tend to react more to bad news that to good news. This explains why we’re more likely to see reports of a market dip than a subsequent recovery. Share markets by nature are volatile. But if your portfolio reflects your attitude to risk and personal goals, there’s only one thing to do when you encounter negative market news: nothing. A more positive step is to plan for what you can control – the fees you pay on your investments. High fees can have a far more devastating impact on your portfolio over time than day-to-day market movements. Paul Clitheroe is Chairman of InvestSMART, Chairman of the Australian Government Financial Literacy Board and chief commentator for Money Magazine.

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MONEY

MONEY ADVICE: No matter the retirement lifestyle you are hoping to achieve, planning ahead and early as possible will reap rewards.

Photo: jacoblund

Planning ahead for the perfect lifestyle in your retirement Dianne Charman WHEN we finally start to see our retirement on the horizon a lot goes through our minds. We start to think about all the things we want to do but haven’t yet. The adventures and places we’ve always wanted to explore but never had the time to. We ask ourselves big questions like: what do I want to do for the next 30 to 40 years? Then we start to think about money. Do I have enough money to tick off all those things on my bucket list? I’m over work, but what happens when I no longer receive my fortnightly pay check? Will I/we be able to manage? We all have different goals. And each different retirement lifestyle brings with it its own unique set of questions. Here are some helpful pointers to help you navigate a few different

types of retirement lifestyles. Globe trotter, cruiser or adventure seeker Firstly, you need to establish what kind of traveller you want to be. Are you a flash packer or backpacker? Are you looking to tick off as many places as you can off your list? Or, are you the kind of traveller that likes to really get a feel for the place they are visiting and stay put for a while? Establishing the above will help you determine your budget. I encourage my clients to think about their retirement savings in buckets: the income nest egg and the lifestyle bucket list funds. By keeping your funds separate you’re less likely to eat into your income fund. Knowing exactly how much you have in your nest egg and that you have enough to cover your day to day costs will bring peace of mind. This will give you the space to

enjoy whatever adventure you choose to go on. The working retiree Sometimes our retirement is not about stopping paid work altogether. But it’s important to be very clear about why you are continuing to work. Working in retirement because we need to rather than because we want to isn’t retirement at all. We define retirement as ceasing work because you have enough money for the lifestyle you want. I tell my clients that they shouldn’t rely on their part time income. Some companies offer a Transition to Retirement approach which involves reducing your working hours over several years prior to retirement. This can valuable for both the employer (who doesn’t lose valuable knowledge all at once) and the employee. Transition to retirement is a flexible option that

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big questions like: what do I want to do for the next 30 to 40 years? allows you to work longer and retire later and on your terms, and rewards you for staying in the workforce by allowing you to access some of your super to make up your income to the required amount. However, as it can be complex, we strongly suggest you discuss your options with your super fund and seek licensed financial advice. There’s a difference between transitioning to retirement and having a part time job in retirement. Be sure you

know which one suits you best. Relocation retirement Whether you’re looking for a sea or a tree change, or you just want to downsize, it pays to do the numbers. Selling the family home is not a simple or easy decision and there are many financial, practical and emotional factors to consider. Clients will often say that they’ll top up their super with the “extra money” from downsizing their home. Sadly, the new smaller home in the dream location often comes with a similar or higher price tag. But if you’re lucky enough to have money left over after you downsize you could look at using the government’s downsizing contribution scheme to add the extra money to your superannuation and top up your nest egg. The scheme is open to those

who are aged 65 or over and sell their principal residence that they have owned for at least 10 years. If you tick that box, you are eligible to make a non-concessional contribution to super of up to $300,000 from the proceeds. Couples can contribute $300,000 each. Downsizing your home may have an impact on the amount of social security you receive because your Age Pension entitlement depends on the value of your assets and the amount of income you receive. No matter the retirement lifestyle you are hoping to achieve, planning ahead and early as possible will reap rewards. Dianne Charman, of Jade Financial Group, is an Authorised Representative of AMP Financial Planning Pty Ltd, ABN 89 051 208 327, AFS Licence No. 232706.

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SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

TRAVEL

‘‘

Activities range from a Segway Safari along bush tracks to a flying fox zip line

STILL GREEN: O'Reilly's Mountain Villa survived the recent bushfires and open for business.

O’Reilly’s is ready for you Phil Hawkes IT’S late October on a beautiful clear mountain-fresh day at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat in the Lamington National Park, the traditional land of the Yugambeh people. In the lobby I overhear a conversation between a couple from Brisbane and the receptionist. “We’re lucky to be here,” says the wife. “This morning my mother told us we should cancel our booking as the place had been burnt down in the recent bushfires, so we made a phone call and found that wasn’t true. So here we are.” Yanina and Apoorva at the desk say they’ve

heard this comment from a number of guests, and there’s been much confusion caused by dramatic scenes on TV. Later, at the manager’s daily guest briefing over afternoon tea (where appropriately, lamingtons are served), Brendan Long explains that in its 93 years of existence, O’Reilly’s has not been damaged by bushfires because it’s in the Gondwana subtropical rainforest area dating back millions of years, unscathed. Tragically, the Binna Burra lodge and other properties across the range were destroyed, the difference being those sites also contain eucalypt and sclerophyll forest which is prone to bushfire events. The

Lost World Spa Couples Treatment Room.

village of Canungra (the jumping off point for the road into O’Reilly’s) was not damaged although it was used as a base for fire-fighting authorities. Still, the false perception exists that the whole Scenic Rim area was burnt out; local businesses are just getting back on their feet and visitation is very welcome. Back at O’Reilly’s, an Advanced Eco-Tourism resort, there’s much to enjoy in the clean air nearly 1000 metres above sea level, away from the coastal humidity. Ideal weather for walking, so I set off with another couple on a leisurely two-hour return hike to pretty Moran’s Falls where there’s a picnic area, good for a BYO lunch. There’s

historic interest there too, being the site of a bark hut where the O’Reilly brothers first lived when they moved here to establish a dairy farm in 1911… but that’s another story. Apart from a number of different walks up to seven hours (a bit too much for me, I’d admit) there’s plenty to do at the resort, ranging from a Segway Safari along bush tracks, highly recommended, to a flying fox zip line experience down a valley which certainly gets the adrenalin moving. Less strenuous is a billy tea tour to a lookout by 4WD, with damper and a few yarns to accompany the magnificent views over the green mountains. No fire damage here.

Sunset from the summit of Moran Falls.

Photo: Ryan Fowler Photography

The highlight for me is the 6.45am bird walk. Armed with a camera and bird seed, we stroll quietly along the Booyong track where many different rainforest species including king parrots, Regent bower birds and the inevitable bush turkeys appear on cue, posing for happy snaps and a bit of birdsong. Our knowledgeable guide Sylva even seems to know many of them by name; she’s obviously a dedicated bird whisperer. Back at the dining room, a substantial breakfast awaits and having given the birds just small handfuls of seed, everyone is overcompensating by diving into the hot and cold buffets with abandon, fuelling up for

Shane O'Reilly.

another day’s activities. Just down the hill there are a number of separate villas and the Lost World Spa with an infinity pool, an excellent place to soothe tired muscles after all that walking. And good news for campers: according to Shane O’Reilly of the retreat’s owning family, the Green Mountains camp ground is being completely redeveloped adjacent to the resort with new facilities, giving visitors another option for accommodation in one of Queensland’s most beautiful mountain rainforests. For more info, go to oreillys.com.au * Phil Hawkes was a guest of O’Reilly’s Rainforest Resort

REVIEWS

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Rescued against all the odds

Are we friends?

PEOPLE went on about death bringing friends together, but it wasn’t true. The graveyard, the stony dirt - that’s what it was like now. From the author of The Natural Way of Things, Charlotte Wood, The Weekend is a tale of three women who know each other better than their own siblings, But, their friend Sylvie’s death opens up strange caverns of distance between them. Four older women have a lifelong friendship of the best kind: loving, practical, frank and steadfast. But when Sylvie dies, the ground shifts dangerously for the remaining three. Can they survive together without her? They are Jude, a once-famous restaurateur, Wendy, an acclaimed public intellectual, and Adele, a renowned actress now mostly out of work. Struggling to recall exactly why they’ve remained close all these years, the grieving women gather for Christmas at Sylvie’s old beach house – not for festivities, but to clean the place out before it is sold. Without Sylvie to maintain the group’s delicate equilibrium, frustrations build and painful memories press in. Fraying tempers, an elderly dog, unwelcome guests and too much wine collide in a storm that brings long-buried hurts to the surface –

True colour revealed in new novel

and threatens to sweep away their friendship for good. The Weekend explores growing old and growing up, and

Grandmother run-arounds

A FUNNY and heartwarming novel about four very different grandmothers, from the bestselling author Salley Vickers. Grandmothers follows four grandmothers. Blanche can't seem to stop stealing things from the local pharmacy. Minna just wants a quiet life in her shepherd's hut, though the local children have other ideas. Cherry is adjusting to life in a care home. And Nan, whose favourite occupation is researching funerals. All four lives and the grandchildren become

‘‘

Seriously, how much adventure and fun can four grand -mothers cope with? unexpectedly entangled in Salley Vickers’s Grandmothers. In bookshops from November 14. Published by Penguin, RRP$32.99.

what happens when we’re forced to uncover the lies we tell ourselves. A celebration of tenderness and

friendship that is nothing short of a masterpiece. Published by Allen & Unwin. RRP $29.99.

CAPTAIN James Cook is one of the most recognisable names in Australian history; an almost mythic figure who is often discussed, celebrated, reviled and debated. But who was the real James Cook? Australian author Peter FitzSimons reveals in his new novel who was the real James Cook. This Yorkshire farm boy would go on to become the foremost mariner, scientist, navigator and cartographer of his era, and to personally map a third of the globe. His great voyages of discovery were incredible feats of seamanship and navigation. Leading a crew of men into uncharted territories, Cook would face the best and worst of humanity as he took himself and his crew to the edge of the known world – and beyond. Focusing on his most iconic expedition, the voyage of the Endeavour, where Cook first set foot on Australian and New Zealand soil, author FitzSimons contrasts Cook against another figure who looms large in Australasian history: Joseph Banks, the aristocratic botanist.

IT’S the inside account of the breathtaking Thai cave rescue that captured the world. In Against All Odds Australians of Year 2019 Dr Craig Challen SC OAM and Dr Richard Harris SC OAM share their story of the Tham Luang cave rescue Challen is an Australian veterinary surgeon, technical diver and cave explorer. His partner in the story is Richard Harris, an Australian anaesthetist and cave diver who played a crucial role in the rescue. “I just want to warn you. You’re going to dive to the end of the cave. You’re going to see these kids. They’re all looking healthy and happy and smiley. Then, you’re going to swim away, and they’re probably all going to die.” In June 2018, for 17 days, the world watched and held its breath as the Wild Boar soccer team were trapped deep in a cave in Thailand. Marooned beyond flooded cave passages after unexpected rains, they were finally rescued, one-by-one, against almost impossible odds, by an international cave-diving team which included Dr Harris and Dr Challen. Published by Penguin. RRP $34.99.

Hachette RRP $49.99.

Dementia home design MOST people who live with dementia want to live in the familiar comfort of their own home and maintain engagement with their community. Associate Professor Colm Cunningham with Agnes Houston MBE and Natalie Duggan have written My home, my life. The book is packed with practical ideas for people with dementia and carers, and brings together the voice of people with dementia and carers with the best learning from research and care experience to provide insightful tips and

strategies. To get your copy of My home, my life, go to hammond.com.au/shop/ dementia-and-aged-care/ my-home-my-life. Cost $19.99.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

G E N E R A L K N O W L E D G E

PUZZLES 3

Across 1 Which Japanese city hosted the 1972 Winter Olympics and has an annual ice and snow sculpture festival? (7) 4 What do we call the costume of a nun or monk? (5) 7 What British nobleman ranks below a marquess and above a viscount? (4) 8 What did Gene Roddenberry create? (4,4) 10 What is a colloquial expression for an amorous glance? (3,4,3) 12 What dung-beetle was considered sacred in ancient Egypt? (6) 13 Where did Sophia Loren spend her childhood? (6) 15 Who was the author of A Spaniard in the Works? (4,6) 18 What wine bottle is about six times the size of a standard bottle? (8) 19 What is a mark left by a whip? (4) 20 Which card game was a forerunner of bridge? (5) 21 What is the white part of an egg? (7)

8 9

10 11 12

13 14 15

17 18

Down 1 In what sport are ﬂying clay targets used? (5) 2 What hard, sharp-tasting cow’s milk cheese is used primarily in grated form? (8) 3 What are groups or series of eight? (6) 4 With whose band did Frank Sinatra make his ﬁrst recordings? (5,5) 5 From what part of the cork oak does cork come? (4) 6 What are the proceeds from a period of selling? (7) 9 Gymnastics was given a new lease of life as a sport by which gymnast at the 1972 Olympics? (4,6) 11 Sir Winston Churchill was born at which palace? (8) 12 Colloquially in the United States, what part of a town is frequented by vagrants and alcoholics? (4,3) 14 What is the capital of Turkey? (6) 16 What material is most commonly used for brush bristles? (5) 17 Which language used to be called Siamese? (4)

59 26/10

SUDOKU

Fill the grid so every column, every row and 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

DOUBLECROSS

8 9

Find a ﬁnished crossword by deleting one of the two letters in each divided square.

11 12 13

15 16

19 20

Down 1. Obstacles (8) 2. Statutes (5) 4. Commencement (6) 5. Uncontested (12) 6. Proﬁcient (7) 7. Extinct bird (4) 8. Midpoint in a progression (7,5) 12. Enthusiasm (8) 14. Wine seller (7) 16. Cheerful (6) 18. Dissenter (5) 19. Melt (4)

Across 1. Excludes (4) 3. Concentrated (8) 9. Dependent (7) 10. Wept (5) 11. Intolerable (12) 13. Disclose (6) 15. Promise (6) 17. Over time (2,3,4,3) 20. Indian religion (5) 21. Quiver (7) 22. Deteriorated (8) 23. Charity (4)

5x5 B L U E R

A I S L E

R E A V E

E G G E D

S E E R S

SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU

ALPHAGRAMS: EXALT, FEARED, GARNETS, HARDWARE, INSINUATE.

DOUBLECROSS

ALPHAGRAMS Solve the anagrams. Each solution is a one-word anagram of the letters beside it, and the ﬁve solutions are sequential. For example, if the ﬁve-letter solution starts with J, the six-letter solution starts with K, and so on.

LATEX DEAFER STRANGE HER AWARD ANNUITIES

5x5

R I

G A

L R

E E

GK CROSSWORD Across: 1 Sapporo, 4 Habit, 7 Earl, 8 Star Trek, 10 The glad eye, 12 Scarab, 13 Naples, 15 John Lennon, 18 Rehoboam, 19 Weal, 20 Whist, 21 Albumen. Down: 1 Skeet, 2 Parmesan, 3 Octads, 4 Harry James, 5 Bark, 6 Takings, 9 Olga Korbut, 11 Blenheim, 12 Skid Row, 14 Ankara, 16 Nylon, 17 Thai. QUICK CROSSWORD Across: 1. Bars 3. Focussed 9. Reliant 10. Cried 11. Insufferable 13. Reveal 15. Pledge 17. In the long run 20. Hindu 21. Tremble 22. Worsened 23. Alms. Down: 1. Barriers 2. Rules 4. Outset 5. Unchallenged 6. Skilled 7. Dodo 8. Halfway house 12. Keenness 14. Vintner 16. Blithe 18. Rebel 19. Thaw.

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Insert the missing letters to make ten words — ﬁve reading across the grid and ﬁve reading down.

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BRISBANE

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