Central Coast, February 2019

7 www.seniorsnews.com.au vfacebook.com/seniorsnews 4 1300 880 265

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WELCOME

FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Angles of architecture Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor

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Peer support for cancer patients

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Escape to a city full of surprises INDEX Cover story - Leo Sayer News - We are ready for changes Wanderlust Community group guide What’s on Money Puzzles

CONTACT US General Manager Geoff Crockett – 0413 988 333 geoff.crockett@news.com.au Editor Gail Forrer – 1300 880 265 gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Executive Sue Germany – 0408 286 539 sue.germany@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Online Get your news online at www.seniorsnews.com.au Advertising, editorial and distribution enquiries Phone: 1300 880 265 Email: advertising@seniorsnewspaper.com.au or editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au 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 “Central Coast Seniors”.

The Seniors Newspaper is published monthly and distributed free in northern New South Wales and southeast Queensland.

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.

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PRESENT and future accommodation is on the minds of many people our age.

We might have made a decision to downsize, modify our present home for future requirements, have started to check out granny flats or taken a look through retirement villages.

To support your decision making, this month our big read looks at the new wave of retirement villages, in particular, the vertical village.

The name hardly denotes the architectural leaps that have changed the face of this accommodation style from the usual sprawling, one storey plan to buildings that have grown to, as I see it, holistic living centres. It seems to me to make a lot of sense to keep facilities such as medical, beauty care, dining, leisure under one roof, but importantly to share appropriate facilities with the general public.

As you will see in this edition, there are various articles outlining contemporary studies which prove how human beings thrive on a diverse range of companionship. Indeed it is with others we figure out what's going on, compromise and exchange information

and while that’s happening, share a few laughs, feel empathy and the joy of good company. I hope you find good information in our double page feature on Singapore’s new style retirement village, which recently gained the World Architecture prize award together with news of what is happening in Australia.

For many of us travelling has to be one of our favourite things to do. Whether it be exploring Australia in our campervans to cruising the Mediterraean or a slow trip across the continents, one way or another we like to discover new places and meet new people.

This month, for the enjoyment of all, I am inviting you to share your travel adventures via stories and/or photos and I will publish either online or in print. I’d love to hear from you. Please send emails to: Gail.Forrer@seniors newspapers.com.au

SENIORS \\FEBRUARY, 2019

NEWS

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Bill and Bob take double honours for Umina club Alison Houston

IT was a big Australia Day for Umina Surf Lifesaving Club with stalwart members William (Bill) Cook receiving an OAM for services to surf lifesaving and Robert (Bob) Powell the Central Coast Council Community Volunteer of the Year Award.

Bob received his award the day before Bill, who was there to congratulate him, but had been sworn to secrecy and couldn’t say a word about his own award.

Both men say the Umina club, its members, and surf lifesaving itself are special.

“We’ve just clocked over 1000 members, so that’s a pretty big achievement,” Bob said.

“I’ve never seen a club with such great leadership across all areas … and focussed on building for the future.”

Bill said there wasn’t

another sport in the world that gave children the opportunity to become water and surf safe, while giving back to the community as volunteers without even realising it.

“I’ve been here for a lot of years, and I don’t know one kid that’s gone through that’s ended up a bad kid,” he said.

Bill, from St Huberts Island, joined in 1993, when membership was around the 300 mark, has been a Life Member since 2010 and has held just about every position in the club.

That includes two stints as president, having been treasurer, an executive member, sponsorship co-ordinator, on the building committee and building officer, bar manager and assistant Masters coach, since 2007.

He’s even put the bins out – literally!

CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

HONOURED: William (Bill) Cook received an OAM for services to surf lifesaving.

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COVER STORY

FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

The real still just Tracey Johnstone

HE’S BACK: Leo Sayer is touring Australia this year with his Just A Boy At 70 show from February to March before heading to the UK. Photo: Ed Fielding

FANTASTIC, wonderful, the best, no fears looking forward, proud to be 70.

Leo Sayer brims with enthusiasm on the eve of his tour of Australia and New Zealand. He’s just a boy. It’s always been his thing; his song and now his tour, Just a Boy at 70.

“I think I am boyish in my ways,” Sayer told Seniors News. “Everyone looks on me as this eternal youth. Michael Jackson took the title first, but I am the real Peter Pan.” Well, if you take the crazy hair, the lively music, his energetic stage presence, a wardrobe of loud jackets and a youthful attitude – yes, for him being boyish even at 70 is just fine. “I never grow up,” he joked.

He’s been working up a storm in his barn-sized studio at his home in Sydney’s southern highlands, readying

himself for up to two hours of music, if the management allows him to go over time, with a medley of everything old that remains in the memories of the ‘forever young’ - still exciting, entertaining and evocative.

“People really come to see me because of the music of the past more than the music of today,” Sayer said.

He has 13 albums to choose from. In that catalogue, there are plenty of songs audiences know word-for-word. You couldn’t help yourself sing along as Sayer belts out You Make Me Feel Like Dancing, More Than I Can Say, Train, Dancing The Night Away, and the song he wrote for Roger Daltrey, One Man Band.

“Things that weren’t the biggest hits, but at the same time, things that the audience know already and songs which are all part of the story,” Sayer said.

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COVER STORY

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Peter Pan a boy at 70 ‘‘

His story – and ours.

“A song like Moonlighting, or Thunder In My Heart or Orchard Road will trigger memories for people about what they were going through at that time.

“We have shared experiences of that time.”

In between preparing for his tour, Sayer has been scribing his memoir.

“I am writing it by myself,” he said. “I tend to be the kind of person who does everything by himself.”

His career launched in 1972 but he has got as far as writing to the end of 1978. But there is a lot to pack in when reviewing a life lived in the spotlight.

“It’s already 77,000 words,” he said. “It’s going to be quite a tome.

There is so much work going into it. I have had such a busy life.

“I get to a point when I am talking about a particular moment like when I did my first TV series in England, and

Every day that you are doing this and really mobilised and you are motivated, it’s just fantastic.

during that time there a little marks in the diary that I kept and some postcards that I wrote to my mum and dad.

“Then more events come out.

“Suddenly, oh my god, there I was the night Keith Moon of The Who died. My god, we were together that night and then I saw him off after a party we were at.

“He gave me a hug and said, ‘I will see you in a couple of weeks’. The next thing he was dead.

“I was one of the last people to speak to him.”

Sayer swore he is on the home run to getting the book finished. There is also new album in the works, but it won’t be out before the tour starts.

He is living a busy life, but Australian highland life in a sleepy village surrounded by English foliage where “you don’t need to know how to reverse park”, suits the 70-year-old who has blended into the little community.

Since moving to Australia in 2005, he has taken to eating organic foods, staying fit and enjoying a life, free of city pressures, with his Italian wife Donatella.

“Every day that you are doing this and really mobilised and you are motivated, it’s just fantastic,” he said.

“Standing still is the most dangerous thing for me, so I keep moving.”

Just a Boy at 70 tours across Australia from February. For tickets visit leosayer.com/shows.

ON TOUR: Leo Sayer is touring Australia this year with his Just A Boy At 70 show from February to March before heading to the UK. Photo: Michael Palmer

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CLIMATE CHANGE

FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

We are ready for changes

Seniors turn out to play a part in a better future Alison Houston

OF MORE than 1600 people to complete Central Coast Council’s online Climate Change Survey, 67% were over 50.

That’s an outstanding general response and shows, in particular, seniors’ keen interest in this issue, according to Mayor Jane Smith.

The mayor said as well as the impact of climate change on themselves, seniors focussed on the legacy they would leave for their children and grandchildren.

The main two areas of concern identified were increasing temperatures and rising water levels.

The mayor is keen for seniors to take part in the next step, with a series of community workshops in each ward across February and March to build understanding around climate change and gain feedback on how the public wants to be involved in future planning around council’s Draft Climate Change Policy.

“We want to have this conversation with the community, to hear their concerns, discuss what action on climate change might mean and how we can respond to it,” the mayor said.

“We want them to be involved every step of the way.”

“Mitigating” and “adapting” are the key words as council looks to reduce the Coast’s greenhouse gas emissions now and into the future, working towards net zero emissions by 2050, while recognising and adjusting some aspects to the changes we know are already occurring.

The mayor said while many older members of the community recalled extreme weather events of the past, climate change made these events – heatwaves, drought, severe storms and flooding – manifest in more extreme ways and more frequently.

It was important to recognise long-term trends, including that only one of Australia’s hottest 10 years occurred before 2005, according to Bureau of Meteorology records.

The mayor said the survey and workshops were just the beginning of high level-policy, dealing with managing risks, planning infrastructure and facilities, and building community resilience to respond to the effects of climate change.

“This is not just an environmental issue, it’s also a huge economic issue,” Cr Smith said, pointing to the cost of responding to emergency situations, damage to

CALENDAR Workshops will be held from 6-8.30pm at: The Entrance Ward: Wednesday, February 20, Mingara Recreation Club.

Gosford East Ward: Tuesday, February 26, Erina Centre, Erina Fair.

Gosford West Ward: Wednesday, February 27, Mantra Ettalong.

Budgewoi Ward: Thursday, March 7, Camp Breakaway, San Remo.

Wyong Ward: Wednesday, March 13, Wyong Civic Centre.

To register for a workshop and receive a Climate Change Community Information Pack, go to yourvoiceourcoast .com/climatechange or phone 1300 463 954.

infrastructure and the social impact.

She wants residents to understand why their rates may be allocated to certain areas in order to alleviate future problems, and work with council in planning.

“Doing nothing is really not an option,” she said.

OUR LEGACY: Seniors are looking towards their children and grandchildren's futures as Mayor Jane Smith encourages them to be part of the community workshops on council's Draft Climate Change Policy.

Her statement reflects what global environmental, political and business leaders made clear at the recent World Economic Forum, that lack of action on climate change poses our greatest threat.

“David Attenborough, one of our most revered and respected elders, is calling for action on climate change and saying we don’t have time to

wait,” Cr Smith said.

She is keen for the council to lead by example, and points to its existing program of generating electricity from waste to reduce its carbon footprint, producing enough renewable energy to power more than 4500 homes last financial year, as just the start.

“We need real actions and I am looking forward to seeing how the

community respond to and engage with this policy as we work together to find the best way to tackle the effects of climate change and make positive change here on the Coast,” the mayor said.

Public exhibition of the Draft Climate Change Policy continues until Friday, March 15.

The Stolen Generations want a commitment on aged care ELEVEN years on from the National Apology, members of the Stolen Generations are calling on governments to ensure aged care services are

sensitive to their needs. It follows the release of data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare that uncovers alarming and disprop-

ortionate levels of disadvantage for Stolen Generations aged 50 and over.

The Healing Foundation CEO Richard Weston said

the Aged Care Royal Commission had been running for less than a week and they were already hearing about the trauma experienced by

those in care.

“Clearly, the Stolen Generations need and deserve assistance in their aging years, but given their past

experiences with institutionalisation, it’s vital that we find public funded alternatives that respond to trauma related issues.”

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CITIZENS

FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Citizens make it official Three generations now call themselves Aussies

SIX years to the day since they immigrated to Australia, Dinah and James Brown became citizens on January 26.

They were among 157 people from 34 countries across Europe and Britain to Canada, America,

South America, India, Pakistan, Asia and the Pacific, to Africa and the USSR, who took part in the Central Coast Council ceremony, each with their own reasons for wanting to call Australia home.

Dinah and James are from Sandwich in Kent, and followed their son to Australia after he married

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an Aussie girl in 2007.

They now have three grandchildren, who they are delighted to be able to watch growing up.

Dinah said although the young family lived in Manly, it was “a bit too busy” for Dinah and James’ liking, and when they discovered the Central Coast, they fell in love with Umina.

“It’s lovely and sunny and everyone’s always so friendly, and it’s got everything you could want … it’s like being on holiday all the time,” she laughed.

“We had residency and our grandchildren are Australian, and their mother, and our son had taken citizenship, so we thought, ‘why not?’ It’s nice to feel part of a country and part of a family.”

At 75 and 80 respectively, Dinah said she and James had no plans to return to England, with no close family left there, and so much to enjoy in Australia.

James was in the Royal

NEW AUSSIES: James and Dinah Brown, celebrate Australian citizenship with son Martin and his wife Megan, and their three children, Piper, 10, Hugh, 8, and Ottilie, 4.

Air Force for 22 years, and worked the hovercraft from Dover to France for over 20 more, while Dinah was in administration, before both took early retirement and spent 12 years touring various parts of Europe in a motorhome.

“It was a wonderful time,” Dinah said.

Now, they are enjoying the chance to see what Australia and New Zealand have to offer, including a recent cruise to New Zealand to celebrate 50 years together.

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They’ve also explored the Whitsundays, been on the Indian Pacific, are off to the Murray River soon and are keen to visit Lightning Ridge.

“It’s nice to have the energy to enjoy it all,” Dinah said.

NEWS

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LEISURE

FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Autumn nights at The Art House

Five must-see shows THE Central Coast is fast becoming a theatre lover’s paradise, with tens of thousands of Coasties watching world-class shows on their doorstep instead of travelling to Sydney. Here’s a pick of the best of the best in live performance this Autumn.

Sydney Symphony Orchestra – Alessio Bax Performs Mozart– March 22 Experience a night of gorgeous classical music with Australia’s premier orchestra and virtuoso pianist, Alessio Bax, in a program featuring Mozart’s transcendent final piano concerto, Mendelssohn’s Hebrides

Overture, and Beethoven’s Eighth Symphony.

Swing On This – March 30 Prepare to be charmed by four of stage and screen’s leading men, in a show featuring all-time swing classics from Sinatra to Bublé.

Starring Michael Falzon, Luke Kennedy, Matt Lee and Ben Mingay, complete with a nine-piece band, this is a scorching hot show that’s set to get your toes tapping.

The Gospel According To Paul – April 9 Co-creator and star of The Wharf Revue, Jonathan Biggins targets Paul Keating, one of Australia’s most

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER: The magnificent classical music by the Sydney Symphony orchestra on March 22. compelling and enigmatic leaders, in this unmissable one-man comedy.

It’s a funny, insightful and occasionally poignant portrait of Paul Keating, the man that (as he tells it) single-handedly shaped contemporary Australia.

I Want To Know What

Love Is – March 2 What happens when you take 800 anonymous love stories and put them centre-stage? An uplifting, technicolour journey into the L word! Featuring rose petals, banners and a lot of love, this is a joyous, and heartbreaking ride through love’s collision

course.

Room On The Broom – March 6-7 Get tiny theatre lovers into a show with this gorgeous stage adaptation of the best-selling children’s book, Room on the Broom, with songs, laughs and scary fun for

children aged three and over.

Book for all these shows and more at theart housewyong.com.au, through their box office on 02 4335 1485 or in-person at 19-21 Margaret Street, Wyong.

Searching for Apex members, past and present

Authorised by Emma McBride, ALP, 204/1 Bryant Drive, Tuggerah NSW 2259

WE ARE looking for past and present members of Zone 10 of the association of Apex clubs of Australia.

Zone 10 stretched from the Sydney Harbour up the east coast as far as Kempsey in the north. A reunion is to be held in Laurieton on March 14 and we would like to see as many past and present members attend.

Apex was, and still is a wonderful young men’s service club and was

established in most towns and cities around the country.

If you look you will find an “Apex Park” in most country towns.

Apex has been responsible for many well known service schemes and through their service work and fundraising, have donated millions of dollars to many and varied charities.

Our history ■ Apex supplied a truck and radio equipment to

The Royal Flying Doctor Service in the 1930s when that service was in its infancy.

■ Apex was responsible for free milk into schools.

■ Apex established the first training centre for Guide Dogs For The Blind.

■ Apex built and still maintain The Magic Castle in the snow at Smiggins Hole, a chalet for under privileged children to have a much needed holiday.

■ Apex run The Gympie

Muster a well known music event in Qld. That has raised $14 million for charity.

Apex’s familiar triangular emblem has been around Australian suburbs and country towns for decades.

The organisation’s story starts in March 1931, when three young architects, looking to make a contribution to their local community of Geelong, Victoria, decided to create Apex. By

Christmas that year, clubs in Albury, Ballarat, Camperdown and Warrnambool had been established.

Over the past seven decades, Apex has chartered more than 1,000 local groups and more than 200,000 younger Australians have learnt key skills whilst making a practical contribution to the common good.

Apex’s three founders, Ewan Laird, Langham

Proud and John Buchan were motivated by a simple creed: citizenship, fellowship and service.

Apex has always shown a preparedness to tackle today’s problems without forgetting those issues and social problems that fail to achieve high level publicity or fashionable celebrity support.

To register, please go to apexreunion.weebly.com or phone John on 02 6559 5264.

SENIORS \\FEBRUARY, 2019

NEWS

11

Thanks for all your efforts ‘‘

FROM PAGE 3

Bill has also been a member of Ettalong Pelican Masters Swimming Club since 1990 and of the Rotary Club of Woy Woy since 1986, serving periods as president of both and becoming a Paul Harris Fellow in 1994 as well as receiving the International Sapphire pin.

He was awarded Gosford City Council Citizen of the Year in 2008 and nominated for the Senior Australian of the Year.

Bill said receiving the OAM was “pretty humbling”, “an unbelievable honour”, as well as “totally unexpected”, having known nothing about his wife Wendy’s “behind-the-scenes” plotting for almost two years with retired police officer Graham Kinross who nominated him.

Bob, originally from Sydney’s Northern Beaches, has lived at Kariong for 40 years and became involved in surf lifesaving through his daughter in 2000, having previously always been a

It’s nice to be recognised, but that’s not why we do it

winter sport fan.

But with a history of 37 years as a training and development consultant, and his certificate in Work Place Training, it wasn’t long before Umina SLSC worked out Bob was a pretty handy recruit.

He hasn’t looked back, becoming a Life Member at Umina in 2018.

Having retired from work 12 years ago, Bob has educated and assessed thousands of surf lifesavers in his role as Chief Training Officer at Umina, and says he particularly enjoys seeing the satisfaction of members of all ages from 15 to over-50 completing their Bronze Medallion.

“They have a smile from ear to ear when they realise they are achieving their dream,” he said.

He has also conducted numerous community education sessions for all

ages and is a patrol captain, whose team, which he has led from the start, taking out NSW Surf Life Saving’s Patrol of the Year Award last year.

He has also won a number of other titles, including NSW SLSC Assessor of the Year 2014, SLSCC Lifesaver of the Year 2007, Assessor of the Year 2008 and 2014, and Umina SLSC Club Person of the Year 2005 and 2011 and Umina SLSC Patrol Captain of the Year 2018.

Bob said he wasn’t sure what to say when he was announced Community Volunteer of the Year.

“It’s really nice to be recognised, but that’s not why we do it, it’s because we love what we do and it’s a great environment to be in,” he said.

OTHER AWARD RECIPIENTS OTHER seniors to earn Australia Day honours this year included fellow surf lifesaver David Thompson, who was awarded an AM for significant service to surf lifesaving at local, state and national level.

David lives at Umina and has been a member of Ocean Beach Surf Life

Saving Club since 1977, becoming a Life Member in 1995, including stints as president, vice-president club captain and committee member, as well as state and national honours.

Kenneth Austin, from Green Point, received an OAM for his service to the community after more than 35 years with the Rotary Club of Gosford North, including stints in various offices including president. Norm Strong, 90, of Berkley Vale, received his OAM recognition for service to rugby league, including playing for the North Sydney Bears from 1947 to 1962.

He was also a foundation club member and inaugural president of Pitt Town and District Sports Club in 1980 and a gold medallist in weightlifting in his 70s at Maters Games. Seniors to win Central Coast Council awards this year included cancer education and research advocate, Yvonne Crestani as Citizen of the Year, and Lyndall Parris, of Narara Ecovillage, for the Environmental Award.

LOVING IT: Robert (Bob) Powell received the Central Coast Council Community Volunteer of the Year Award.

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NEWS

FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Thinking of The choice

‘‘

The design also set out to encourage different generations to interact.

Australia on trend with integrated living Tracey Johnstone

tracey.johnstone@seniorsnewspaper.com.au

BIODIVERSE DESIGN: The Kampung Admiralty complex in Singapore has an extensive green footprint on the new site.

Photo: Patrick Bingham-Hall

PCA’s Retirement Living director, Ben Myers.

Photo: Anthony Burns

Kampung Admiralty architect Pearl Chee.

Photo: Jing Wei

RETIREMENT living design has been thrust into the international limelight as height and style head towards the sky.

Late last year, Singapore’s innovative Kampung Admiralty project won World Building of the Year. It isn’t an office tower. It’s not a flashy hotel. Nor is it a cultural centre.

It’s a showcase of the latest in vertical biodiverse retirement living design with its social housing, large green footprint, health services, cross generational hub and vibrant community spaces supporting integration, not isolation, for its residents.

Kampung architect Pearl Chee, of the Singapore firm WOHA, said the aim of the government-sponsored pilot project was to integrate an independent living seniors’ community within an accessible and vibrant public space.

The unique design is layered. At the lowest levels are a public plaza with a food court and neighbourhood retail shops. In the middle is the medical care centre with specialist rooms. On top of that is the quieter activities of an elder care centre next door to the childcare centre, and landscape terraces.

Above that again is the social housing.

“About 80 per cent of Singaporeans live in social housing,” Ms Chee

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said.

As they age, most of them look to downsize.

Kampung has 104 apartments sized either 35sq m and 45sq m, each with an open kitchen, one bathroom and one bedroom. The design also sets out to encourage different generations to interact.

“The idea was to have a mix so the community was more vibrant,” Ms Chee said. “It’s not a closed-up project. This is a very public building where everyone can access 24 hours. There is no fence.”

The terraces are designed to encourage exercise, social interaction among the residents and spending time with young visitors.

“The operators of the care centres have arranged for combined programs so on a weekly basis the young and the old are actually interacting in arts and craft programs or meals together,” Ms Chee added.

For some residents, their grandchildren attend the Kampung childcare centre. Australia is there alongside the Singaporeans in design and innovation. Its models may vary because of the needs of this country versus those of Singapore, but when it comes to smart downsizing, Australia is on-trend.

Australia’s Retirement Living Council executive director Ben Myers said there was a range of design innovations, including mixed-used developments and multi-generational

connections such as in Kampung, being seen in Australia and which were changing the concept of retirement living away from the horizontal villages in gated communities.

Two of the newest vertical retirement living choices are Adelaide’s U City and Brisbane’s Aveo Newstead.

The 2018 PwC/Property Council Retirement Census reports only 4 per cent of Australian villages are now vertical, and this number isn’t likely to change soon. Firstly, there are some significant hurdles to overcome.

“One of the challenges is certainly the planning schemes that exist around Australia that in some instances, make that really hard,” Mr Myers said.

“In West Australia, for example, the planning laws preclude the villages from carrying out anything other than retirement accommodation.

“In the minds of many planners, retirement living and aged care are one and the same. But, they’re not.”

It’s the community support and facilities that are not being included in planning schemes Mr Myers said.

“The other challenge is the investment side and getting the capital.

“Retirement villages can only take intentions to buy into account.

“They don’t have that binding deposit to help finance (a project).”

A horizontal village can be built in several stages.

A vertical village has to be

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SENIORS \\FEBRUARY, 2019

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13

retirement? is sky high

in one.

“There is a transition away from the traditional financial models, which have helped the industry to grow, to now the operators saying if they are going to go vertical, which is what many people are desiring, particularly in capital cities, then they need the capital to build that all in one stage,” Mr Myers said.

“It’s a riskier proposal and requires great confidence that the operator can turn intention to buy into residents.”

Brisbane’s Newstead Mr Myers sees the Aveo development, which won the Award for Design Excellence at the 2018 National Retirement Living Awards, as a great example of the new thinking in mixed-use development.

The 19-storey, inter-city tower ticks the boxes for retail, community dining, aged care and retirement living.

“It’s a new concept in an urban renewal area,” Mr Myers said.

“I think that is going to be something we see more of over the next few years.”

Aveo Group chief executive officer Geoff Grady talks with great pride about what has been achieved with Newstead which opened last year.

“It’s the future of retirement living in this country,” Mr Grady said.

The secured upper levels of the layered complex have brought together three distinct accommodation and care products.

It has about 150 one,

two and three-bedroom independent living apartments.

It also has more than 50 apartments for low to medium care clients plus an aged-care facility with nearly 100 residential bedrooms.

Mr Grady noted this structure “enables residents to transfer seamlessly between those offerings when their care needs are elevated”.

On the lower levels there is a hotel unit for overnight rental by family members and 4000sq m for a resident recreational facilities area that includes a large community garden, gym, day spa, library, movie theatre, a-la-carte restaurant, bar, business centre, beauty salon, sky bar and private dining room on the top floor.

All of this is wired for the technology of today and into the future, including Google Home.

On the bottom level and open to the whole community is a supermarket, coffee shop, pharmacy and medical centre.

Mr Grady was finding the age group buying into the building were mostly in their 70s, which was consistent with the PPCRC report finding that the average entry age was 75.

“Why they are buying is because of the integration of their care,” he added.

Adelaide’s U City South Australia’s Uniting Communities U City has taken a similar approach to Aveo’s Newstead with its development, but with a few key variations.

The inter-city layered development is on an

existing UC-owned site and opens mid this year. It is central to many of the amenities its new residents will require and want.

The 20-storey building incorporates 41 independent living apartments, 21 specialist disability independent living accommodation, 18 short-stay serviced apartments suitable for people with disabilities, open access indoor and outdoor recreational areas and public access retail including a bar and food outlets with the balance taken up by a 420-seat function and convention centre plus commercial tenancies.

Its chief executive officer Simon Schrapel AM believes U City reflects the organisation’s commitment to providing social services and an inclusive and integrated, dynamic community in the city, in a financially viable model.

The site, both retail and its short-stay accommodation, will be run 24/7.

Its entrance is designed to welcome the public with the doors able to be pushed back to facilitate flow to and from the street frontages.

The Baby Boomers’ needs have taken a high priority in the design of the centre. Internet savvy, wanting better health options, ability to mix with other demographics –they are showing a great deal of interest in U City.

“It’s indicative of the group that want to continue to explore new horizons and territories, and I think that is what we are offering in many senses is the opportunity

VERTICAL LIVING: Uniting Communities U City development in Adelaide, due to open in mid 2019.

The top floor bar area in the new Aveo Newstead retirement living complex in Brisbane.

Photo: Graham Philip to do that rather than feel this is the last stage of your life,” Mr Schrapel said.

The vertical living innovations are being driven by the retirees’

desires said Mr Myers.

Some, but not all want cross-generational spaces. Others want high interaction with the wider community.

“This comes in so many

different forms,” he said.

“The industry is getting its head around that and trying to navigate through the investment and planning hurdles to bring some of these to life.”

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14

BECAUSE WE CARE

FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Calling for fashion flair To help style women entering the workforce Alison Houston

TRANSFORMATION: Wyong Neighbourhood Centre's Tina Waters shows off the boutique's message and the angel wings she created.

IF you are retired with experience in women’s fashion, Wyong Neighbourhood Centre wants to hear from you to help with its new Because We Care Boutique.

The boutique, officially launching on Tuesday, March 5, will be run by stylist volunteers and assist disadvantaged women to re-enter the workforce by providing professional clothing and support prior to job interviews.

WNC community relations officer Sharyn Burgess said it was a first for the Central Coast, with cash-strapped women previously having to travel to Parramatta and Marrickville for a similar service.

“For many people, the first step to re-entering

the workforce is having appropriate clothing and the confidence to go into an interview and to a workplace knowing they are well dressed,” Sharyn said.

The clothes will be top quality second-hand items, and new shoes and handbags have been donated.

“We are looking for volunteers with a real passion for fashion, a real knack for styling,” Sharyn said.

“We want our clients to feel really special when they come in.”

Clients will be referred to the boutique, which will be open two days a week by appointment for women of all ages, who come to them from a variety of circumstances, including poverty, domestic violence and divorce.

Each woman will receive a one-hour consultation at the

boutique, and also have the opportunity of one-on-one mentorship on resumes, job applications and interviewing, as well as legal advice as needed.

The sign on the boutique wall perhaps best sums up the boutique’s mission to help women coming from bad situations “be your own kind of beautiful”.

WNBC youth worker Tina Waters created the angel wings where women can chose to have their photos taken after their “transformation”.

The Because We Care Boutique is a specialty extension of the op shop, which is also run by volunteers Monday-Friday 9am-3pm and funds the centre’s emergency relief program.

If you can help, contact Sharyn at sharyn@wnci.com.au or phone 02 4353 1750.

Safety Learning Program

Road Safety Presentation for Seniors We are hosting a presentation for seniors with great tips for staying safe on our roads.

The session will include: Your health and driving Tips for safer driving Pedestrian safety Retiring from driving Driver licensing at 75 and 85 years

People aged 75 years or over are three times more likely to be killed in a crash than people in their twenties.* TOUKLEY Tuesday 2 April, 10-11am Club Toukley RSL, Holmes Avenue, Toukley Cost: Free Morning tea will be provided prior to the session commencing.

Bookings are essential as spaces are limited.

Phone 4350 5387 to book your seat or for more information. *Transport for NSW

SENIORS \\FEBRUARY, 2019

NEWS

15

16

NEWS

FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Relative Care ‘like family’ BRAND INSIGHTS IT IS one thing for a home support service operator to tell you about the quality of their care, but it means much more when it comes from a client.

That’s why 89-year-old Anne Jackson’s comments about Relative Care gives real power to owners Denise Rooke and David Dunne’s claim that they are “putting the care back into home care”.

“They’re so friendly, so reliable, so concerned for not only your health but your social life, your family … they are just like family themselves,” Anne said.

From Wagstaffe, Anne has been a client for more than four years, receiving help with cleaning, gardening, transport to medical and social appointments, including U3A classes and to the train station.

“I couldn’t survive here without them – not for one week,” said Anne, who lost her husband three years ago.

With Wagstaffe only serviced by a couple of buses daily, and thus classified as “remote”, the former teacher, always

interested in history and geography, said being able to attend U3A was very important to her.

For Denise and David, making that difference in people’s lives, giving each individual what they need to improve their quality of life, is what drives them.

Both have had their own personal experiences of home care, David through injury himself and Denise through her mother.

As her service provider grew, Denise found her mum, who had dementia, wasn’t coping with being told “someone” would be there “between 8am and 2pm” and having to deal with an ever-changing series of workers.

Denise said Relative Care was intent on “doing things differently”. They aim to stay small enough “to really know who our clients are”, offering guaranteed times and contacting clients if staff are unavoidably delayed.

Depending on the number of hours they require, clients will also see just two or three workers each, who they can get to know and trust.

The company has 50 care workers and seven other staff, has 31 aged

care and 40 NDIS package recipients, as well as offering private care, respite services and being brokered or subcontracted by other companies.

Staff are carefully chosen based on three considerations: personality, qualifications and locality, with personality vital to ensure clients have someone they relate to.

David, a former chef with a family background in hospitality, said he only knew one way of thinking and that was to provide top-quality service.

Having aged 29 fought back from a spinal injury so severe he was advised to seek a disability pension, David understands home care from the client’s perspective.

“This isn’t just a job …

I’ve lived there, I’ve been a patient and I have ongoing pain, but I love what I do,” the former Dubliner said.

For him, being “a real person, providing real services … treating people as they expect to be treated … and don’t make excuses” is a natural way of life.

Relativecare.com.au or phone (02) 4339 7446.

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NEWS

17

Aged care wait too long System needs overhauling

Alison Houston “NO DAY of dad’s has commenced or ended without prayer,” Margaret Jolly said.

But she fears his days are getting longer and harder while he waits endlessly for help from My Aged Care.

Fr Arthur Fellows is one of almost 127,000 older Australians who have been waiting months, if not years, for a Home Care Package.

And at times Margaret is ready to scream with the frustration of it.

At 96, Fr Fellows is on a Level 2 package, which provides five hours of help a week but he is shaky on his feet and becoming increasingly frail.

After being assessed by the Aged Care Assessment Team, he was approved in February 2018 for a Level 3 package.

Nothing has happened.

When Margaret rang in July to find out when the

services would start, she was told by My Aged Care there was a 12-month wait.

When she called again in December, she was told it was a 12-month-plus wait.

She has been told unofficially that the wait for many people is two to three years.

She pointed out to My Aged Care her father was 96 and may not live long enough to receive the service.

She has heard of one woman whose mother was finally approved for a Level 4 package – for those needing the greatest help for issues including dementia – 18 months after she died. If her father’s condition had deteriorated, My Aged Care told her, he could be re-assessed… it would take six weeks to be seen, at which point he would spend an hour answering the same questions as he had

several months ago.

“The irony is, I’ve given up work to help dad,” Margaret said.

“If he had the help he needed, I would be paying the government far more in tax than it would cost for his package.”

She says the government has “got the maths all wrong”. They want people to stay in their homes because it costs less than nursing home care.

People want to stay in their homes because it is their home and because they fear nursing home conditions and the boredom, atrophy and depression associated.

Yet the money which should be going to help older Australians to stay safely at home is instead being spent on bureaucracy.

“The fundamental problem with this system is it’s not the ultimate consumer and their needs which it is concerned

DESERVING BETTER: Fr Arthur Fellows, 96, with daughter Margaret Jolly speaking up for almost 127,000 older Australians who wait months or years for a home care. about – it doesn’t care about the individual.”

She cites a fall her father had before Christmas which left him with a fracture and a cast on his arm.

He had already sustained an ulcer on his ankle and a nurse had been approved to come in and change the dressing daily, straight after his

shower.

However, when Margaret asked if the nurse could come 10 minutes earlier and help put a plastic bag over her father’s arm, she was told this was not a nursing duty but a domestic assistant duty. To gain this service, she would need a referral and there would be a six-week wait –

by which time her father’s arm would be healed, not to mention the unnecessary doubling of costs sending two people to the same house within 10 minutes of each other.

“Having been through this experience myself, I hate to think what it’s like for those who don’t have a child or someone to advocate for them.”

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EVENTS

FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Day to honour women Alison Houston THE second Central Coast Festival of Women, uniting a host of International Women’s Day (IWD) events under one mighty 10-day umbrella, is a great chance for women retiring on or to the Coast to become more involved in their community.

After an official launch on March 1, the festival kicks off its celebration of women and their contributions to the community with the 5th International Women’s Day Expo at Erina Fair Shopping Centre from 9am to 3pm on March 2.

Publicity officer Margaret Heathcote said it was a wonderful chance to discover what opportunities were open to Coast women of all

ages and interests.

Information stalls include the Business and Professional Women Central Coast, Country Women’s Association of NSW, Soroptimists International Brisbane Water, Rotary clubs, Central Coast Community Women’s Health Centre, Zonta, as well as the University of Newcastle – Central Coast and TAFE NSW, Ourimbah Campus.

■ An event especially created for this year is the Women in Art exhibition, run by Tuggerah Lakes Art Society from Tuesday, March 5, until March 17 at the Entrance Lake House.

Go to seniorsnews.com.au for the full story.

■ Other major events include the Community Women’s Business Network International

OPPORTUNITIES: Janice McTackett and Linda Roberts at the CWA stand at last year's Women's Day Expo at Erina Fair Shopping Centre, letting women know some of the great clubs and services in their community.

Women’s Day Breakfast at the Art House, Wyong.

The guest speaker is country music star Gina Jeffreys talking about her new album, music career and charity work Book via thearthousewyong. com.au or phone 02 4335 1485.

■ Peninsula Women’s Health Centre, Woy Woy, is exploring how to make a difference in gender

balance in a free event from 10am-12pm on Wednesday, March 6, with a guest speaker, morning tea and entertainment.

Phone 02 4342 5905 to book.

■ If you’d like to help women doing it tough in other countries, Zonta aims to prepare 4500 birthing kits at a packing day at the Central Coast Grammar School at Erina on Saturday, March 9.

With about 300,000 women and three million newborns dying each year from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth, predominantly in developing countries, the kits help provide a safe birthing environment.

Phone Janet on 0438 810 500.

■ The festival culminates on March 10 with the Soroptimist International Women’s Day Breakfast at

the Reef Restaurant at Terrigal from 7.45am.

The guest speaker Professor Eileen Baldry, a Professor of Criminology, has taught social policy, social development and criminology for decades and is Deputy Chair of the Disability Council NSW. Bookings ($47) on 02 4639 1096 by February 22.

FREE OPPORTUNITY: Take the chance to learn online skills. Photo: Jacob Wackerhausen

Free tech lessons here COAST Community Connections will host a free Technology in Focus event on Thursday, February 21, at the Peninsula Community Centre to celebrate NSW Seniors Festival.

The organisation is encouraging local seniors to enjoy two free sessions on the day to improve their confidence and skills when using such technology devices as iPads, tablets, computers and mobile phones.

The day will commence with a morning session on The Wonderful World of iPads from 10am–noon.

This session will be led by digital mentor Lillian who will take participants

through the basics of using an iPad and the amazing things iPads can do.

The day will conclude with an afternoon session on Taming Technology from 1–3pm.

This session offers individual help with all other types of technology including mobile phones, laptops and computers as well as other brands of tablets.

“Seniors make a huge contribution to our community and they play a large role in the success and growth of Coast Community Connections,” Coast Community Connections

chief executive officer Bruce Davis said.

“This event is a chance for us to give back to the senior community on the Central Coast and offer useful advice to help seniors take advantage of all of the benefits modern technology can offer.”

Coast Community Connections Technology in Focus Day: Thursday, February 21, 10am at the Peninsula Community Centre.

Bookings for these sessions are encouraged, phone 02 4341 9333 to book or go to coastcommunity connections.com.au/.

19

SENIORS \\FEBRUARY, 2019

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20

FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Inaugural heritage rail tour SLOW travel lovers can choose in 2019 to hop on board for the inaugural Great Southern Loop heritage steam and diesel train tour through NSW and Victoria.

The six-day tour starts on May 30 when guests join the newly restored diesel locomotive 42103, built in Granville in 1966, as it heads off from Sydney’s Central Station with its cargo of heritage carriages.

The period lounge, seating and compartment cars with windows that open for a fresh breeze and a better view of the ever-changing countryside are all part of the experience.

From Goulburn the steam locomotive 5917, built in 1952, will take the train to Junee allowing travellers to enjoy the sights and sounds of travel when steam ruled the rails.

After lunch in the historic in the 134 year-old Junee Railway Station Cafe, the rail journey continues by diesel to Albury for one night’s accommodation at the very modern Atura Hotel.

HERITAGE TRAVEL: Go slow, go easy, on the inaugural Great Southern Loop heritage rail tour through NSW and Victoria.

From Albury, passengers ride the iconic Spirit of Progress train to Melbourne. The former express train served the Melbourne-Sydney route

from 1937 to 1986.

Heritage locomotives will haul the original carriages including compartment, kiosk and parlour cars.

From Melbourne the

giant blue steam locomotive R711, built in 1952, will thunder to Seymour for breakfast and then head to Echuca where passengers will

board a Murray paddle steamer for a lunch cruise.

Passengers will then be part of rail history when their train crosses the

border to Deniliquin – the first time steam has traced the route in more than 20 years.

A coach transfer to the Riverina capital of Griffith will see the group enjoy a private wine tasting session at De Bortoli Wines and an authentic Italian lunch at the Piccolo Family Farm.

From Griffith, diesel and steam locomotives will take passengers along railway lines that seldom see passenger traffic, north to Parkes to visit the Dish – the huge, movie-famous CSIRO Observatory Radio Telescope.

After a night in Parkes, diesel and steam locos will take passengers back to Sydney via Orange, Bathurst, Lithgow and the Blue Mountains.

The tour cost it $3440 per person, twin share, and $3790 for solo travellers. Included in the cost is the privately chartered heritage trains, sightseeing and Cruise Express tour escorts.

Info: Call Cruise Express on 1300 766 537 or you can visit their website cruiseexpress.com.au

21

SENIORS \\FEBRUARY, 2019

‘‘

Sink into the armchair of a 1920s-style carriage, and take in the Sacred Valley views

THE MARVELOF RAIL TRAVEL: Meet with an effusive welcome from locals in Jaipur.

Photo: Kedar

Eight epic rail journeys EXOTIC, elegant, exciting, and you have only to unpack once as you travel onboard a luxury train to discover extraordinary destinations.

PRETORIA TO CAPE TOWN

Take an iconic journey. Board the fabulous Rovos Rail, known as “the most luxurious train in the world”, in Cape Town and arrive in Victoria Falls.

Stop dreaming of doing The Blue Train journey and book it in this year. * For travel in May, June or July this year The Blue Train is offering a 50 per cent discount on the costs for a traveller’s partner. This offer is open until February 28 and is only applicable to new bookings.

Experience an overnight Cape Town to Pretoria (or vice versa) route covering 1600 kilometres of some of the most diverse and spectacular scenery on the African sub-continent.

Elegant high teas, fine dining and pure nostalgia – a step back in time.

CAPE TOWN TO VICTORIA FALLS

Board the iconic Rovos Rail, known as “the most luxurious train in the world”, in Cape Town and seven days later arrive at the majestic Victoria Falls

Steam from Ecuador's high-altitude capital Quito, through winding Andean valleys.

The gloriously dramatic Victoria Falls.

in Zimbabwe. An iconic journey.

winding Andean valleys, traditional villages and tropical rainforests, arriving in Guayaquil – your launch point for the Galapagos Islands – 4 days later.

CUSCO TO AREQUIPA

Hop on the Andean Explorer and take a journey on one of the highest train routes in the world from Cusco, over the Andes to Lake Titicaca and UNESCO World Heritage site, Arequipa, with an optional day trip to Machu Picchu.

REMOTE INDIA IN COMFORT

The Deccan Odyssey oozes opulence with its private butlers, gourmet dining and even an onboard health spa, and will take you to some of

the most inaccessible reaches of India in comfort.

ANGOLA TO TANZANIA

Join Rovos Rail and cross the entire continent from Angola to Tanzania in 15 days including a stop in Zambia’s wildlife-rich South Luangwa.

Experience the “dark heart” of Africa from the comfort and security of a luxurious locomotive. A truly epic adventure.

QUITO TO THE GALAPAGOS

Lovingly restored steam trains descend from Ecuador’s high-altitude capital Quito, through

MACHU PICCHU, PERU

Aboard the Hiram Bingham train depart Cusco in the morning, sink into the armchair of a 1920s-style carriage, take in the stunning Sacred Valley views and arrive at Machu Picchu by lunch time. Explore the awe inspiring ruins of this sprawling Inca citadel, enjoy a fabulous high tea, then return to Cusco in the evening. Experience

Machu Picchu in comfort and glamour.

TEA COUNTRY, SRI LANKA

Considered to be one of the most beautiful rail trips in the world, the Kandy-Ella train is the best way to reach Sri Lanka’s tea country. Twice a day, it snakes through impressive mountains, verdant jungle and rolling plantations, arriving in Ella by mid afternoon.

Popular among both tourists and locals, this is the way to travel.

Info: costs and dates, ph: 02 9327 0666 or classicsafaricompany. com.au.

22

FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Fish Weipa to Cape Trib ‘‘ Nige Webster takes us to the far north for the best fishing you can find

The coast and river fishing is second to none in these parts.

Nige Webster A PLACE every angler has to visit in their lifetime is the Cape York Peninsula.

Preferably sooner rather than later as the road north is gradually being sealed the whole way, which in my opinion takes away some of the charm of the adventure.

There is something special about heading up the range from Cairns, getting to Lakeland and then turning off on the big trek up through Laura, Coen and on towards places like Weipa.

The town of Weipa is a mining town, but a great place to base yourself to explore the area.

From here you can head further north to fish rivers such as the Wenlock and further up the west coast to visit towns such as Bamaga and Seisia.

While here you have to visit Cape Tribulation or the most northern tip of Australia. The coast and river fishing is second to none in these parts.

There are plenty of fishing charters in this part of the

Jowalbinna Bush Camp.

CAPE FISHING: Cape York is 4WD territory. world and if you want to tow a tinny here, there’s plenty of creek and river fishing to be had.

This area offers fishing for the likes of barramundi, golden snapper, mangrove jack, queenfish and many, many more. The bluewater options are second to

Photos: Tourism and Events Queensland

none with the likes of mackerel, tuna, coral trout and species such as sailfish on offer.

There is a great caravan park in Weipa and similar options in places such as Seisia.

This is 4WD territory and the trip needs to be well planned and prepared

for.

Lures and bait will work so take a mix of outfits from barra size (4 to 10kg) to medium weight (8 to 20kg) and the heavy outfits (20 to 40kg).

Great lures include 90 to 120mm bibbed hardbody lures that dive from 1 to 3 metres, 3 to 4

Mangrove jacks.

inch prawn imitation soft plastics, 3 to 5 inch paddletail soft plastics and 95mm vibe style plastic lures.

The trip to the top of the Cape York Peninsula is one that should be undertaken during the dry season. This means travelling between May

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SENIORS \\FEBRUARY, 2019

GREAT SETUP: Starting your retirement dream of going camping can be fun using these simple tips.

Photos: Tourism and Events Queensland

Many camping areas have toilets.

Photo: Tourism QLD, Larissa Dening

Don’t expect to be able to cook on a camp fire in all locations.

Photo: Tourism QLD, Andrew Tallon

Camping in Queensland’s parks and forests can be comfy.

Photo: Vince Valitutti, QLD Tourism

Don’t rely on lighting powered from car battery or you’ll find your stay extended when the car won’t start.

Tips for camp comfort

CAMPING for seniors who dream of becoming grey nomad campers can seem a little daunting at first, but using these five tips from Queensland Tourism can help them become first-timer happy campers.

1. Swap the power cord for batteries Fact: Camping areas in parks and forests don’t have power.

This means the hair-dryer stays at home.

But that’s fine because everyone else will have camp hair too.

You’ll need battery, gas or solar-powered equipment for lighting, such as torches and lanterns.

And, for mood lighting, nothing beats the gentle glow from a camp fire.

If you are using inflatable mattresses, we suggest a pump that plugs into the 12-volt car battery. Or invest in a self-inflating mattress.

Tip: Don’t rely on lighting powered from the car battery or you’ll find your stay extended when the car won’t start.

Of course, if you simply can’t live without power (if you need the coffee

Pack a few camp chairs. machine in the morning), make sure you book a site where the use of generators is allowed.

2. Cooking in a camp kitchen made easy Fact: No gourmet kitchen facilities here!

But you still have options for cooking up a storm, or even just feeding the troops.

Camp with friends who have all the gear and can cook for you.

That may sound flippant but it’s helpful to camp with others and share equipment.

If that isn’t an option, search for a camp site that has barbecue and picnic facilities so you’ll have a hotplate for cooking, and a table for preparing meals.

Or you can start your

own camp kitchen collection, and purchase a fuel or gas stove for cooking and boiling the billy.

To make camp life easier, prepare meals at home before you go.

Curries, pasta sauces and casseroles all make perfect camp food – simply reheat and cook the accompaniment (rice or spaghetti) in your camp kitchen.

No matter which option you choose, you’ll also need to BYO Esky, cook set and camping tableware and cutlery.

Remember the can opener!

Tip: Don’t rely on a camp fire for cooking – camp fires are not permitted in all camping areas.

3. BYO water on tap Fact: Water coolers not provided.

While some camping areas have tap water at camp sites or in the amenities, tap water in our parks and forests generally isn’t suitable for drinking (without treating).

So you will usually need to bring your own drinking water with you. Simple.

Buy a large refillable water container that has a tap for convenience.

Fill it at home before you leave and there you have it – water on tap.

Bring along personal water bottles, too, if you plan on getting active away from camp.

You’ll also need one or two buckets for collecting water for the washing up.

Buckets are incredibly useful when camping – make sure you’re not caught short of a bucket.

4. Loos with views Fact: Queensland’s parks and forests do have loos (views are optional, but the settings are great).

Many camping areas have toilets – either the normal flush variety or composting or hybrid systems. It’s only when

you really go bush that you’ll need your spade and a toilet roll. Even then, you can BYO portable toilet.

And you don’t necessarily have to do without your shower.

Some camping areas have showers, or cubicles for portable showers if you want to BYO. Of course, if you camp near a river or waterhole, a splash in the shallows (only if safe) will keep you all smelling like roses.

Forget the soap and shampoo though – they’ll harm the water quality.

For a touch of luxury, heat water in the billy and fill a bucket.

Washing face and hands, as the breeze rustles the tree branches above you, and birds call all around you, is the perfect way to start or end your day.

Forget your trendy outdoor shower at home – you get the real deal when camping.

5. BYO deck and deckchairs Fact: Not all camp sites offer shade.

A tent, camper trailer or van is great for sleeping but you need a day shelter

as well. In short, you’ll want your deck.

The solution is to bring your own shade.

Pack a large tarp with tent poles and guy ropes, or a simple a pop-up gazebo with tie-down pegs. Ground sheets to lay beneath the shelter are also useful for keeping the camp site clean.

Tip: Bring a brush and pan. Remember the deck chairs too. Pack a few camp chairs – nice comfy ones with arm rests and drink holders.

Camping in Queensland’s parks and forests can be comfy. With just a little planning, you’ll still enjoy your home comforts – they just come in different (more earthy) guises.

All you need to do now is decide which camp site facilities you need, then jump online to search for camping areas in your region that fit the bill.

When you’re ready, book and pay for your camp site before you go.

For location ideas, go to lifesbestmoments.des. qld.gov.au/landings/ couples-groups.

24

FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

‘‘

Beijing’s imperial cuisine is characterised by its elaborate detail

HONG KONG: One of the great cities on the planet showing a ancient history and a vibrant, exciting, non-stop culture show.

Ancient and modern COLOURFUL festivals, big sporting events and new cultural hubs are just some of the reasons to visit Hong Kong this year.

Then there is the fabulous shopping and eating.

Here are some top insider visitor tips:

immersive attractions and exclusive Disney experiences.

EAT

CULTURE

The Xiqu Centre in West Kowloon is a platform for the conservation, promotion and development of Cantonese opera.

The Xiqu Centre in West Kowloon is a platform for the conservation, promotion and development of Cantonese opera and other genres of Xiqu (Chinese traditional theatre) in Hong Kong and beyond. There are performances to enjoy inside the striking building which blends traditional and contemporary elements.

Down at Tsim Sha Tsui the Avenue of Stars has a new collection of celebrity handprints and statues on display.

Visitors will be able to step back in time and relive the successes of past Hong Kong movies, set with the backdrop of the stunning Victoria Harbour.

EXPERIENCE

A traditional performance at the Xiqu Centre.

The Mills project has seen the former textile mills turned into a destination for innovation, business, experiential retail, arts, culture and learning. The former mills have been transformed into a single complex incorporating The Mills Fabrica, The Mills Shopfloor and the Centre for Heritage, Arts and

Textile.

The Peninsula Hong Kong is the first luxury hotel in Hong Kong to offer a trinity of deluxe transportation options – the existing fleet of Rolls-Royce Phantoms, a customised helicopter and now a yacht.

The Sunseeker Manhattan 60 is a 19-metre cruiser that can

carry up to 15 guests each evening on a two-hour evening cruise featuring the Symphony of Lights on the mesmerising Victoria Harbour during the Harbour Sunset Cruise.

Join the grandchildren, or go alone, and step into popular Disney stories at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. It has new

Japan’s ramen noodle champion Hayashi Takao and a leading specialist in Japan’s national culinary artform, Matsumura Takahiro, have launched Ramen Cubism at a chic basement venue in Wellington St, Central.

Daarukhana, a contemporary concept delivering a new take on Indian food, has opened in Wan Chai. It features lofty interiors while the kitchen shrugs off convention by using ingredients rarely seen in Indian cooking.

Guests can indulge in pairings including chilli honey glazed French langoustine with South Indian beans as well as other culinary innovations.

Former three Michelin Stars chef Bruno Ménard has joined the Junon, a establishment that combines live musical performances with fine-dining cuisine.

Bruno crafts seasonal menus supported by premium quality, fresh

25

SENIORS \\FEBRUARY, 2019

The exterior of the Mojo Nomad Central, a new concept in hotel-motel accommodation. Photo: Kevin Mak, Kingymak

HONG KONG: Avenue of Stars, Bruce Lee statue.

Chef Bruno Menard's kitchen, lightly Tasmanian trout, chlorophyll jelly, wasabi.

cooked

The exterior of the new traditional performance space, Xiqu Centre.

Hong Kong ingredients sourced from Hong Kong and around the world.

Mokutan, a Japanese Izakaya, is open in Tsim Sha Tsui at Empire Prestige. It has a repertoire of high-quality, seasonal specialties, highlighting three affordable Omakase menus.

Peking Garden in Star House, Tsim Sha Tsui, is celebrating its 40th anniversary.

It offers dishes inspired

by Beijing’s imperial cuisine, characterised by its elaborate detail and craftsmanship.

Occupying a multi-storey complex in Kowloon City, Sanwa Jo has five master chefs at the helm, the curators of Japanese gastronomic classics sushi, teppanyaki, robatayaki and washoku.

Celebrity Japanese pâtissier-chocolatier Hironobu Tsujiguchi has opened four Super Sweets Galleries in Tsim Sha Tsui, Central, Causeway Bay and Shatin.

The celebrated Iron Chef confectioner introduces a range of his

signature cakes, roll-cakes, desserts, pastries, truffles and chocolates with a French twist.

DRINK

Fans of holistic tea purveyor Basao tea can now enjoy a cuppa of its exceptional single-origin clean-grown brews at the brand’s first dedicated teabar located on Moon St, Wanchai.

Taiwanese drink maestro Angus Zou has partnered up with Tasting Group’s Antonio Lai to unveil the city’s first cocktails on tap bar concept, Draft Land.

SLEEP

Mojo Nomad Central, a ground-breaking concept that turns the traditional hotel model completely on its head, is now open on Queen’s Road Central. It features exceptional food and beverage offerings and 24-hour facilities including a contemporary fitness centre, laundry area and an expertly appointed co-working space.

A mont-blanc cake from Japanese pâtissier-chocolatier Hironobu Tsujiguchi.

The new Rosewood Hotel.

For more information go to The Peninsula Hotel's newest guest experience, a 15-metre powerboat, is available for daily harbour tours. discoverhongkong.com/au.

26

FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Kukrit House.

At the Wat Po Gardens.

Traveller Kathleen Clare shares a great way see this delightful city.

Fai the Thai from Chang Mai at Chatachuk Markets.

Real deal in Bangkok Kathleen Clare SA WAH Dee Ka! The Banyan Tree welcome letter was itself a delight, listing the many free things offered with our five-star hotel package – breakfast buffet, daily club lounge, laundry and cocktails.

Hard as it was to leave the hotel, Bangkok proved a delightful place for our first four days in Thailand to visit.

Quintessentially smoggy, concrete and high density, it’s surprisingly clean, with smiling people and a deep sense of history that you don’t really feel in Australia.

With Google map downloaded and Luxe Guide aboard, my sister Mary Bridget and I went out for a two-hour Thai massage at Health Land, a 15-minute walk from the breakfast buffet.

Side by side in a room, we were gently squidged and stretched into our holiday. Total price, $52.

Limping the streets afterwards, we visited an art gallery in a gorgeous heritage home and

marvelled at the quirky curves of the laneways and post-modern mess of overhead wires creating a canopy in every street.

Later at the hotel’s famous Moon Bar we joined an Aussie friend and her journalist mate from Brisbane who has lived in Bangkok for 30 years. Moon Bar cocktail, $20.

I love both Thai food and a bargain, so my favourite meal of the trip was at the MBK shopping centre – mushroom soup, fried spun egg and rice.

Cost, $2.50.

The other end of the foodie spectrum was Eat Me, a modern fusion restaurant owned by Australian siblings and where I tried street food cocktails like Laab-Moo, garnished with a slice of crispy bacon. Cost, $17.

The prize for best dinner experience, however, went to Flying Chicken.

Our Brisbane-Bangkok friend, Mr Andrew Biggs, as the Thai people call him, took us there and we were greeted like celebrities. We were seated at a choice table right next to a catwalk

CHECK IT OUT The other end of the foodie spectrum was Eat Me, a modern fusion restaurant owned by Australian siblings and where I tried street food cocktails like Laab-Moo

BANGKOK SURPRISE: A most unusual plastic sculpture at a Bangkok art centre.

Photos: Kathleen Clare

which cut curiously through the restaurant.

The smiling staff brought us fans. Andrew ordered barbecued chicken, deep fried whole fish, som tam (green papaya salad – the Thai national dish), kai jeow (omelette) and kra pao (minced pork and basil).

Then suddenly,

commotion. A man on the catwalk is ringing a bell and holding a roast chicken aloft.

Another enters on a unicycle, wearing a helmet bearing a unicorn-style spike. Unicycle man wheels off stage as the chicken is placed on a catapult device.

Excitement builds and

the bell rings again. The unicycle speeds towards the stage and the catapult clunks.

The roast chicken flies through the air and is expertly speared on the helmet.

Dinner cost, don’t know as Andrew paid.

Next day I walked to M.R. Kukrit’s Heritage

Home. It’s a green oasis amongst Bangkok’s concrete jungle. Entry, $2.

Using Grab, Thailand’s Uber, I ordered a motorbike rather than a car and flew pillion across town (and full of adrenalin) to another historic estate, Jim Thompson House.

There were loads of tourists, gorgeous pavilion architecture and great espresso. Motorbike ride, $3.50. Entry, $7.

It’s hard to briefly encapsulate everything Bangkok offers including Wat Po (golden reclining Buddha), the Grand Palace and Chatuchak markets. Head to the Mandarin Oriental river jetty where a porter can arrange a long scenic boat tour, cost, $45.

SENIORS \\FEBRUARY, 2019

27

The joy of being a friend Tracey Johnstone BEFRIENDING is a proposed new approach to helping reduce depression and anxiety in people living in aged care.

National Ageing Research Institute (NARI) researchers are looking to develop a model where befrienders can, through their volunteer work, reduce the all too commonly found conditions of depression and anxiety in aged care residents.

The NARI project is being funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council and beyondblue.

It will start from this month with field work.

The first step is to recruit volunteers who are available to visit a person in residential aged care.

They will be asked to visit for an hour once a week, over at least four months.

Project co-ordinator Marcia Fearn said she

‘‘

What is the impact of social support and visiting people regularly isn’t looking at any specific type of person to volunteer.

“We will be providing training for them before they go into residential care facility,” she said.

“They will be provided with support from the research team throughout the time they are involved in the project.”

The chief investigator, Professor Colleen Doyle, says her team will be doing assessments of residents before, during and after their field work.

They will be looking to

Wellbeing

determine if there has been changes to the person’s depression and anxiety symptoms as a result of the befriender visits.

Loneliness is another issue Professor Doyle’s researchers will be studying during this very important project.

“We will be providing some new evidence of what is the impact of social support and visiting people regularly, on the individual,” Professor Doyle said.

To register your interest in volunteering for facilities in Melbourne and Queensland, please phone Marcia Fearn on (03) 8387 2305 or m.fearn@nari.edu.au RIGHT: National Ageing Research Institute researchers are developing a model where befrienders can, through their volunteer work, reduce depression and anxiety in aged care residents.

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FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Peer support changing bowel cancer experience Tracey Johnstone IN ONE life he is an expert risk manager and in another Victorian Bobby McKeown is a reluctant expert on the impact of bowel cancer.

He’s been through the journey twice. As a result, Bobby, 64, has come out with what he describes as “peculiar” allergies, particularly when it comes to food.

Onions is one example.

It’s amazing how many foods contain onion or onion flavouring.

It’s his willingness to be open about his treatments and their outcomes, like his food allergies, that has led Bobby to become a vocal supporter of the work of Bowel Cancer Australia, and to volunteering with its Peer-to-Peer Support Network.

The informal network connects patients with similar treatment pathways so they can

support each other and family members through the physical and mental trauma of this cancer, and help to raise awareness of bowel cancer and funds to assist BCA’s work.

“They (BCA) put me with a mentor, someone who was further along the line than me. I was talking with that guy on quite a regular basis and it was really good,” Bobby said.

“You can talk to all the nurses and doctors that you like. But until you talk to somebody whose actually been there and done that, it’s still very theoretical.

“You don’t know if what is happening to you is normal.

“So, just to get that confirmation and to get advice on how they overcame a certain situation, I found it very good.”

Bobby has taken that experience into the conversations he now has with other bowel cancer patients.

He’s currently supporting a fellow, called John, who he meets in Sydney once a

month when he is there on business.

“The problems he has and the similarity to the problems I had mean that we get on like a house on fire,” Bobby said.

“We both like it because we can both talk quite openly.”

While Bobby has been clear for three years, John’s cancer has come back for a third time.

Bobby is determined to remain by John’s side.

Sometimes Bobby finds his peer contacts very reluctant to talk.

But once he explains that he has “been there, experienced that” the conversation often opens up to become valuable to the patient.

Keeping well while remaining very busy with his work and volunteering is a challenge for Bobby.

He visits a psychiatrist regularly to help him deal with what he calls his “guilt trips”.

“There are two sides to this,” Bobby said.

“Sometimes it’s ‘why me’ and then sometimes it’s ‘poor me’.”

He also survives on tablets, some 20 of them

PEER SUPPORT: Bowel cancer patient and Peer-to-Peer Support Network volunteer, Bobby McKeown. each day.

His food allergies have forced him onto a White Diet – all white food – because he can’t handle fibre. And now he’s a diabetic.

Through all this Bobby

is upbeat and remains enthusiastic about supporting the “great work” being done by the team at BCA. He wants other bowel cancer patients to put up their hands to volunteer

for the support network.

Like Bobby, that person will probably find the support will end up going both ways.

Info: bowelcancer australia.org.au

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29

FOCUS ON EYE HEALTH

What to know before you choose cataract surgery LENS CHOICES

There is no one-size when it comes to lens choices. It comes down to what is your lifestyle.

The most common choice is long distance vision with glasses worn for reading. Or you can choose a reading lens and then wear glasses for long distance.

The third choice is a multifocal lens so no glasses are required, but there are limitations with your sight at night when driving.

Tracey Johnstone BEFORE you make a decision on whether to have cataract surgery, there are several issues you should become familiar with.

Because you have cataracts doesn’t mean you have to have surgery, says cataract and retinal surgeon Dr Simon Chen from Vision Eye Institute.

He suggests glasses may be a solution to start, but once the cataracts reach a certain point where you no longer have the quality of vision that you want, then it’s probably time you have surgery to remove them.

An eye specialist will talk you through the pre-surgery steps.

They will look at what level of vision you have and your lifestyle to determine if you need to have cataract surgery.

You will also be assessed for suitability based on your general health, whether you have other issues with your eyes and what is the cause of the cataracts.

“Most cataracts are typically related to age,” Dr Chen said.

But sometimes they can be related to underlying health conditions which will influence the treatment choice.

PRE-SURGERY EYE

NON-SURGICAL CHOICES

EYE TIPS: cataract surgery is a very common and for many seniors, it's almost inevitable the surgery will be needed.

Photo: wathanyu

HEALTH

If you have the common problem of dry eyes, the accuracy of the critical measurements being taken pre-surgery can often be affected, so a specialist is likely to treat that particular condition firstly.

“When you have cataract surgery we take a range of measurements and they are used to calculate the power of lens that is going to be put in your eye, like a pair of glasses, but it goes inside the eye permanently,” Dr Chen said.

SURGICAL OPTIONS

There are two choices of surgery – manual or laser-assisted.

With the commonly used manual operation the surgeon uses a scalpel to make an incision into the eye and then uses other devices to remove the cataract.

“Even the best surgeon in the world when they have a blade in their hand, not every operation is going to be exactly the same,” Dr Chen said.

“So, there is a little element of unpredictability in surgery

no matter how good the surgeon is.”

In laser-assisted surgery the first few key steps are performed by computer guided laser.

“It removes some element of human error,” Dr Chen said.

It also increases the predictability of the surgery outcomes.

The choice of laser surgery is often limited by cost and availability.

Many seniors have both cataracts and macular degeneration.

“If you have macular degeneration, that will limit the improvement you

get (from surgery),” Dr Chen said.

“Even if you have a perfectly performed operation, you will probably see a lot better, but you may not see perfectly afterwards.

“It’s important you ask the surgeon what outcome you are expecting.

“For a lot of people who have additional eye conditions such as glaucoma or macular degeneration, there is increasingly a wide range of different procedures we can do at the same time as cataract surgery.”

“Not any good ones,” Dr Chen said.

He adds those on offer can’t reverse the cataract nor stop them getting worse.

It may be possible to delay cataract surgery and choose to update your glasses and change your lifestyle such as stop driving or stop working.

“Once it starts to deteriorate and have a negative impact on your quality of life, then you should consider surgery,” Dr Chen said.

“The longer you leave it, the more advanced the cataract becomes and so the higher the risk of complications during surgery.”

Dr Chen said cataract surgery is a very common and for many seniors, it’s almost inevitable the surgery will be needed.

He believes after surgery a person’s quality of life improves, there is less likelihood of falls and the opportunity to maintain independence.

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Living

‘‘

We want to feel safe and secure

INDEPENDENCE: The good news is that staying at home is not only achievable but can also help you live a better and longer life.

FROM STRENGTH

TO STRENGTH

Planning to age at home?

CENTRAL COAST SELECT PROPERTIES, NOW LEADING THE WAY IN RETIREMENT!

BRAND INSIGHTS

Ton y G welcome’s n ilmour from Central Coa ew team mem st bers Debora Select Properties h Baker and Maureen Ba ker

Deborah and Maureen have been heavily involved in the Retirement Living market over the last six years. They offer a thorough and sensitive approach to assisting you with all your needs should you be contemplating a change from your existing accommodation.

Services include: • We are the Real Estate Agency that understands your Retirement needs • Sell your existing property • Our Consultants will guide you to your Dream Retirement Home • We are the specialists in Buying and Selling property in Retirement Villages • Understand Retirement Village Legislation • We work independently for You!

P: 43248486 | M 0414 676 839 mbaker@ccselect.com.au www.ccselect.com.au Suite 9, 482 Pacific Highway North Gosford, NSW 2250

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Call now for your current market appraisal

WHEN most of us think about ageing, we think about staying in our own home. According to a 2015 Government Report, 76% of those aged over 60 would prefer to stay in their own home.

We want to feel safe and secure, but we also want to continue to live an independent life. We want to continue to host Sunday night family dinners, visit our local church, and have our hair cut at the same hair salon we have been going to for over 20 years.

Everyone values different activities, and whatever these are, most of us don’t want them to change. In fact, not only do we want this, it’s also more convenient and cost-effective for the government if older Australian’s age at home.

The good news is that staying at home is not only achievable, but can also help you live a better and longer life.

Here are a few examples:

Familiarity Staying in your own home means you know exactly where everything is.

If your eyesight is fading or you’re becoming forgetful, familiar surroundings will help you avoid stressful situations.

Sometimes home modifications are required to help you stay in your home safely, however, government funding may be available to cover this.

Our team are more than happy to help you check your eligibility.

Community connections Continuing to live in the community that you love to socialise in, is more important than ever as you age. A study completed by Stanford University in 2014 found that strong social connections lead to a 50% increased chance of longevity. It is important to remember that you don’t need to go out every night of the week to be considered “social”.

Just give a family member a call, invite a friend over or join a hobby group. Our team can help you get involved and drive you there.

Independence Often people feel that their independence may decrease when receiving home care support. In reality, home care support can increase independence and empower you to live the life you have always loved.

For example, *Betty currently receives home care and when she first started receiving support, she was unable to lift her arms to wash her hair.

Our team supported Betty by using her packaged funds to have her hair set every week and regular physiotherapy.

After a few months, Betty can now lift her arms again, increasing her independence.

Whether you are preparing for the future, looking out for a friend or family member, or need immediate assistance, we are here to help.

Fresh Hope Care Home Care can help you, phone 1800 005 484 or email us at hello@fresh hopecare.org.au. *Name changed for privacy.

SENIORS \\FEBRUARY, 2019

LIVING

33

Catering for furry friends ‘‘

BRAND INSIGHTS

WHEN it comes to caring for the Community, Meals on Wheels Central Coast has it covered.

Not only do they offer meal delivery and social support to seniors and people with disabilities, they are also now offering an affordable Pet Food range.

Their pet food range, Furry Friends, is available through Coast Cuisine, a subsidiary company of Meals on Wheels Central Coast, and is available to all residents across the Central Coast.

Premium quality food for those extra special family members can now be delivered free of charge to homes around the coast, with furry relations loving the food on offer.

Whether your dog or cat is big or small, the Furry Friends range has the right size meal for them, offering premium beef and

Premium quality food for those extra special family members, can now be delivered free of charge to homes around the coast

chicken options.

The Furry Friends pet food contains no preservatives, chemicals or additives, and is delivered in convenient pre-packaged frozen portions.

With three sizes available, 125 grams, 250

grams and 500 grams, the Furry Friends pet food is designed to meet the total daily nutritional needs of your cat or dog, depending on their body weight.

With only one portion needed per day, this is not only a cost effective way to feed pets, but also a healthy one.

Meals on Wheels for Furry Friends is designed to alleviate some of the financial and physical burdens of pet ownership for Central Coast residents.

There is no longer a need to lug around heavy bags of pet food, and with portions starting at only $1.05, makes this an economical and easy way to provide for the beloved pets.

Furry Friends pet food can be purchased (no minimum order required) online, go to ccmow.com.au or coastcusine.com.au or phone 02 4357 8444.

TASTY CHOICES: Whether your dog is like Harvey or a cat, big or small, the Furry Friends range has the right size meal for them, offering premium beef and chicken options.

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FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Community group guide WE welcome your contributions. Please keep notices short and to the point (100 word maximum). If you would like to submit a photo ensure it is at least 180dpi or 500kb to 1mb in size with a focus on people’s faces, in a nice bright setting. Email editor@seniors newspaper.com.au.

SENIORS FESTIVAL

THERE is so much happening for seniors that Central Coast Council keeps the NSW Seniors Festival going throughout February. Pick up a copy of the full program from your 50+ Leisure & Learning Centre, Seniors Centre or local library, or find it online, go to centralcoast. nsw.gov.au/news.

Activities to come include seniors kayaking or stand-up paddleboard at Avoca Lagoon (phone 131 302 or (02) 4348 6700), low intensity aqua water aerobics (various venues), Walking Football at Pluim Park (phone (02) 4362 4300), tai chi,

ballroom dancing (phone 0414 242 669), to card-making and Scrabble, and talks on everything from estate planning to nutrition and getting tech-savy.

VIEW CLUBS

VIEW stands for for Voice, Interests, Education of Women and is a valued part of the Smith Family raising money for The Learning For Life sponsorship and education of disadvantaged Australian children and young adults.

Toukley WE MEET on the second Friday of the month at Club Toukley RSL at 10.30am. We have

DYING WITH DIGNITY NSW

WE WILL meet next at the Candidates Forum on Friday, March 1 at 10am, Meeting Room 3, opp.

Gosford Library, The Hive, Erina Fair.

The NSW State Election will take place on March 23. Looking ahead, we wrote recently to the candidates for the main parties for the Central Coast electorates of Gosford, Terrigal, The Entrance and Wyong, asking their views on legalising voluntary assisted dying.

Their responses will be reported at the Forum.

Candidates were also invited to participate in the Forum, to speak and to respond to members’ questions or, if they could not attend, to send a brief statement on their views

GET ACTIVE: The Seniors Festival activities include cycling, walking football, water aerobics, card-making, scrabble and various talks.

Photo: Wavebreakmedia Ltd to be read at the Forum.

Question & Answer session after refreshments.

Non-members welcome.

December). The next meeting is on February 23 at Woodbury Park Community Centre, 1 Woolmers Crescent, Mardi. Contact president Mei-Ling Venning on (02) 4333 7489, email meilingvenning @hotmail.com or go to wyongwriters.org.

WYONG WRITERS

LOCAL writers meet monthly to encourage and develop their writing skills. Meeting on the fourth Saturday of each month – arrive 1.15pm for a 1.30pm start (no meeting held in

Come long to Fairhaven Central Coast on Thursday, April 18 at noon for ‘We love Disney’ concert on centre stage in our garden for our disabilities special people to perform to the public for a gold coin donation.

Fairhaven services has a op shop and cafe and it will be an all around happy day. For more information, phone Helen on 0412 289 841.

FREE CONCERTS FOR SENIORS SAVE the date.

AN

AUSTRALIAN GLOBAL ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS

AFTERNOON AT THE

A MUSICAL SPECTACULAR IAN

THE BLUE DANUBE

COOPER

ORCHESTRA

OPERA SINGERS - PRIMA BALLERINAS - GOVERNOR MACQUARIE MEMORIAL PIPE BAND evoke the sheer exuberance of THE PROMS in concert

RULE BRITANNIA, LAND OF HOPE & GLORY, JERUSALEM, JOHANN STRAUSS II Plus selections from such great movies of the 20th Century as Singin’ In The Rain, Dr.Zhivago, South Pacific, Oklahoma, Mary Poppins and other favourites

The ACE Award winning “Best Production Show” in Australia

THE ART HOUSE WYONG Sun 28th April 2019 - 2pm Show

BOOKINGS: 02 4335 1485 | ONLINE: WWW.THEARTHOUSEWYONG.COM.AU TICKETS: $79 | CONC: $77 | GROUP 8+: $75 5 G o l d e n F i d d l e awa r d s violinmaestro.c om.au

|

2 M O Awa r d s

|

4 A C E Awa r d s

THE PROMS - A Musical Spectacular

|

1 p l at i n u m A R I A awa r d

info@austentertainment.c om.au

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Community notes

lucky door prizes, raffles and a two course lunch $25 followed by guest speakers or members anticipation and interesting discussions.

We also have outings, Friendship Morning Teas along with raffles.

Joining our VIEW Club is a perfect opportunity to meet with other like minded women and establish new friendships.

For more phone Kathie on 02 4393 0647 or 0413 424 949.

SENIORS \\FEBRUARY, 2019

Alison Houston Journalist

FOLK JAZZ TRIO

THE unusual folk jazz trio Elixir comprises jazz saxophonist Zac Hurren, Australian poet Michael Leunig and singer Katie Noonan. For 19 years they have been exploring the relationship between text and sound. They are performing at Laycock Street Community Theatre at 8pm on Thursday, February 21. Phone (02) 4323 3233.

DECIPHERING HANDWRITING

GAIL Davis, senior archivist at the State Archives of NSW, will provide tips and tricks for deciphering old handwriting for all you family historians from 10.30am-12.30pm on Wednesday, February 27 at Tuggerah Library.

Places are limited so phone (02) 4350 1560 or visit your local branch.

JAZZ, WINE AND CHEESE OPEN DAY

YALLAMBEE Village’s next open day event is on March 29. With smooth Jazz from local musicians,

35

great wine and fine cheeses on offer, is there a better way to consider retirement living? The friendly team at Yallambee Village, Yallambee Ave, West Gosford, will be on hand as a guide and to answer any of your questions while you wander through the beautiful gardens, view the range of living options and get to know a few of the locals in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

GIRRAKOOL FEST

THE 4th Girrakool Blues Festival and Barbecue is on from Friday, March 1 to Sunday, March 3 at Mt Penang. There are 20 bands, including West Coast Rhythm and Blues Revue and RL Boyce with Dom Turner from the USA and Ben Waters and Derek Nash from the UK. There is also a focus on indigenous culture and 50 teams competing in the Australasian Barbecue Competition. For details, go to girrakoolblues.com.au.

’60S VARIETY SHOW

IF YOU were a fan of The Everly Brothers, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, The Bee Gees or The Hollies, you will love The Roberston Brothers Variety Show at

The ArtHouse Wyong on Friday, March 1. Cost is $59.55. Phone (02) 4335 1485.

What's on

LOVE STORIES

WHETHER it’s a painful break-up, meeting the love of your life, or a hilarious first date, everyone’s got a love story, and for the past few years The Good Room theatre company has been turning their audiences’ love stories into a powerful theatre production in I Want to Know What Love Is. It has played sold-out shows nationwide and comes to The Art House Wyong on Saturday, March 2. They are now calling for the Central Coast’s anonymous submissions.

To submit, go to wewantyourlove.com. To see the show ($25-$35) phone (02) 4335 1485.

ULTIMATE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL

IT’S hard to believe that rock queen Suzi Quatro is still going strong, but she is, and she’s back for the Red Hot Summer Tour Series Two from 2pm on Saturday, March 9 at Mount Penang Parklands.

“I will retire when I go onstage, shake my ass and there is silence,” she said. Also on the line-up are The Angels, Baby Animals, the Screaming

LOVE STORIES: I Want to Know What Love Is is playing at The Art House Wyong on March 2 and is looking for your anonymous thoughts and stories to add to the show.

Jets, Jon Stevens, Moving Pictures and Chocolate Starfish. Phone 136 100 or go to ticketmaster.com.au.

KEITH POTGER

FAMOUS as a founding member of The Seekers, Keith Potger’s solo acoustic performances intertwine their timeless favourites with a touch of Nashville, original ballads and hits from the 1960s-80s, with anecdotes from more than 50 years on the international music scene. He’s at Laycock St

Theatre from 11am on Wednesday, March 13.

Tickets $16-$19. Phone (02) 4323 3233.

FLAVOURS BY THE SEA

CENTRAL Coast Council will celebrate Harmony Day with a live multicultural event, Flavours by the Sea, celebrating the region’s diversity with a taste of the world’s best food, music and art. It’s at Memorial Park, The Entrance from 3.30-8.30pm on Saturday, March 16. Go to

centralcoast.nsw.gov. au/events or phone (02) 4350 5555.

OPERA IN THE ARBORETUM

SATURDAY, March 16 is time to head back to the Pearl Beach Crommelin Native Arboretum for an open-air festival of top Australian opera singers and the Central Coast Chamber Orchestra, presented by the Rotary Club of Woy Woy. Tickets are $70 for seniors. Phone (02) 4342 8183 or go to opera.pearl-beach.com.

“Biggins almost out-Keaters Keating... If only we had people this clever running the country.” - Crikey

THE

GOSPEL ACCORDING TO

PAUL SATURDAY 30 MARCH 2PM & 7:30PM

FEATURING ALL-TIME SWING CLASSICS FROM SINATRA TO BUBLÉ STARRING MICHAEL FALZON, MATT LEE, BEN MINGAY, LUKE KENNEDY & A 9-PIECE SWING BAND

TUESDAY 9 APRIL 8PM Jonathan Biggins is Paul Keating in this highly-anticipated new comedy

BOOK NOW! www.thearthousewyong.com.au | 02 4335 1485 | 19-21 Margaret st, Wyong

36

FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Money

Bruce Brammall WITHOUT what seems an unlikely bounce in asset prices, there’s probably not a lot of joy for DIY super trustees looking into their crystal balls for 2019.

And let’s face it, few are predicting a rebound in any growth assets this year, with property prices likely to continue to slide and shares showing no promise.

So, what’s in store for 2019 for SMSFs? Banking Royal Commission ■ RESULTS from the commission are due this month.

There are likely to be significant structural changes to parts of the industry that will impact on everyone’s super and, in some cases, specifically for SMSFs. Those areas are superannuation, insurance and lending products.

SMSF predictions While this is most likely going to impact the major institutions and their intermediaries (financial advisers and mortgage brokers) the most, there will be inevitable flow-on for all.

While Hayne’s interim report was out in November, it will be political reaction to the final report that will most likely. But it will be the reaction and promises from the political parties to the final report that will be where the real impacts come for consumers, including SMSFs. Federal election ■ LABOR HAS several policies specifically designed to hurt both SMSFs and those who traditionally use SMSFs (wealthier Australians).

There’s the banning of franking credit refunds and a possible increase in capital gains tax (CGT) for super funds.

But Labor has recently reiterated their intentions to reduce the threshold at which Australians must pay an extra 15 per cent tax on super

YEAR AHEAD: SMSFs?

What's

contributions,to $200,000.

It also opposes the five-year catch-up provisions. These allow members to put extra into super if they didn’t fully use their $25,000 concessional contributions limits in previous years.

And it proposes to reduce the non-concessional contribution limit further, from $100,000 to

in

store

for

2019

for

Photo: MartinPrescott

$75,000.

The reduction in the CGT discount from 50 per cent to 25 per cent will hit traditional SMSF trustees in their personal names, but Labor is not intending to adjust the current 1/3 reduction for SMSFs themselves. Similarly, the removal of negative gearing provisions (except for new property) is also likely to hit SMSF trustees in their personal names hardest. This is also likely

to impact SMSFs, but less so.

LRBA loans ■ WITH THE departure of the major lenders from the LRBA market through 2018, interest rates from the remaining providers have been trending slightly upwards.

Contrary to some commentary, however, LRBAs are not dead.

The second and third-tier lenders that remain are likely to now be able to get some scale from a less fragmented market. This might actually have a medium-term positive impact on competition in the market.

However, there remains a possibility that LRBAs could be banned.

Three-year audits for SMSFs off the table?

■ IN LAST year’s budget, the Government announced that it would allow SMSFs with a good audit history to move to having audits every three years, instead of every year.

It is now widely speculated that the

government doesn’t have time to get this legislation through the parliament, considering the very limited number of sitting days before the election.

Asset returns looking shaky ■ Figures out in recent days confirm returns for most super funds with diversified investments were likely to be sitting very close to 0 per cent for the 2018 calendar year.

What’s on the radar for 2019? Few are predicting any return to strong gains in the growth markets of shares and property, domestically or internationally. Certainly, direct residential property looks almost certain to record further falls in Sydney and Melbourne.

But often, market corrections are simply buying opportunities for the patient.

■ Bruce Bammel is a columnist for InvestSMART. www.investsmart.com.au To read the full report, go to seniorsnews.com.au.

Has the investment world changed forever?

Paul Clitheroe AS WE sit at the start of 2019, it can seem that there’s plenty to worry about.

We’re seeing headlines about falling property values, sharemarket jitters and a whole host of other issues from Brexit to our upcoming federal election.

So how do we, as investors, handle the current spate of market

volatility and media hype?

The answer lies in understanding that the world has always been incredibly volatile.

History is peppered with natural disasters, multiple wars, any number of great depressions, and at any given time there have always been nations at loggerheads.

The fact is, things have always gone up and down.

What’s different today is that television, radio and the internet tell us about every crisis, virtually as it happens.

The world is not actually a bad place.

Yes, I know there are

troublesome issues with the Trump administration, and we face serious concerns over global warming. But something’s always been in trouble on this planet we live on.

That’s why it’s so important to approach investing with commonsense.

There’s a lot to be positive about.

The world population is growing. More people are in the middle classes – hundreds of millions of people.

They’re all spending, and living longer.

That’s good for companies that supply

products and services, which in the long run is good for share prices.

A growing population is also good for property values.

The trick is not to become overly paranoid about too much information and think that everything is different these days. Everything is not different.

Retain your composure and keep investing for the long-term through a diverse mix of investments.

Different asset classes move in different directions at various times.

No one can exactly predict when markets will hit a high or a low. But with a blend of investments, you won’t feel the full impact when one market falls.

When markets are underperforming, use this as an opportunity to top up your portfolio.

It pays to diversify across countries as well as asset classes.

We tend to have a bias towards investing within Australia. You can take advantage of a world of opportunities not available on our own shores by investing through a managed fund.

One of the great innovations of our time is the availability of extremely low cost managed funds that allow investors to build a diversified portfolio of assets with exposure to local and international markets.

You get the benefit of automatic portfolio rebalancing and transparency of the underlying investments.

Paul Clitheroe is Chairman of InvestSMART, Chairman of the Australian Government Financial Literacy Board and chief commentator for Money Magazine.

The Forum For Your Two Cents Join our exclusive online community, where you’ll find other seniors ready to socialise and share. Seniors online - connecting you to an exciting retirement.

Like us on Facebook!

Visit facebook.com/seniorsnews

SENIORS \\FEBRUARY, 2019

NEWS

37

Songs of the South Pacific Alison Houston BALI Hai is calling...

If you are like me, those four little words have the whole soundtrack of South Pacific running through your head... not to mention movie scenes.

Little wonder director Pollyanna Forshaw chose them when asked how she would promote the Gosford Musical Society’s latest show, running from March 1-16 at Laycock Street Community Theatre.

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic musical, which in April celebrates its 70th birthday, is one of her favourites from childhood, nostalgically reminding her of listening to the songs on her parents’ record player.

It is the story of Nellie Forbush (Sancia West), an American army nurse who is “in love with a wonderful guy”. That “guy” is French planter Emile de Becque (Gerard

Dunning), with whom she shares “some enchanted evening”, and other names you may recall include Lt Joseph Cable (Tom Kelly), his young love Liat (Marlee Carter) and Bloody Mary (Tina Leaitau).

With both the older and younger relationships threatened by prejudice and war, Pollyanna said South Pacific’s message remained relevant today, while the music and lyrics were as memorable as ever.

Pollyanna said she had always keenly felt “the sacrifice of our young men at war”.

At the audition, she played the video of an ex-serviceman friend Brian Smith, 96, who she had been with recently when he returned with his daughter to where he had fought in Rabaul, Papua New Guinea.

She wanted to give prospective performers some understanding of war through the eyes of someone who was there,

with Brian at 18, having lied that he was 21 in order to enlist.

She said seeing the rows and rows of young men’s graves at Rabaul had been quite overwhelming.

However, she said while the show has a serious message, it also has “so much vibrancy and joy in it as well”.

Pollyanna is delighted with her lead cast and the various ensembles of nurses, sailors and islanders.

However, she said the show was “the product of so many people’s work”, in front of and behind the scenes, or both, as in the case of set designer and actor Daryl Kirkness, who plays the comic relief Luther Billis.

Tickets for the show from March 1-16 are $46 adults, $44 concession and $42 members.

Go to the website gosfordmusicalsociety. com or phone the theatre on (02) 4323 3233.

SO MUCH JOY: Some of the nursing cast at rehearsals for South Pacific are Raechelle Walters, Helena Esposito, Eleanor Hannan and (front) Olivia Rowe.

Amber Kirkness works on the set for South Pacific.

Sancia West and Gerard Dunning.

Many people who are eligible to receive home care are unaware of all the ways that they can use their funds to live more independent and active lives.

That’s why we’ve created this guide so you feel informed: “Home Care Services.

Everything You Need to Know” Our guide tells you everything you need to know about home care, including how to choose the right provider for your unique needs.

Do you know what your Home Care options are?

To get the guide please visit www.homecare.community

freshhopecare.org.au 1800 005 484

Fresh Hope Care, transforming communities and lives with fresh hope.

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CLASSIFIEDS

FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS

To advertise, call 1300 136 181 or visit finda.com.au to view more ads online.

Motoring Cars

BEWARE OF SCAMS

Buyers and sellers should be cautious of possible scams when buying or selling a vehicle.

Buyers should be cautious when dealing with car sellers that are overseas and should always arrange to view the vehicle prior to the transfer of any money.

More information is available at scamwatch.gov.au

It’s one of the best ways to get results from your garage sale.

To advertise, visit www.finda.com.au or phone 1300 136 181.

6546920aa

Be wary if the number in the ad is disconnected.

If the buyer/seller says the number is disconnected because they are overseas, ask for a landline phone number at their current location as well as a mobile phone number.

All contact details of the person buying or selling the car should be verified to ensure they are genuine.

Be Ready for Anything.

Notices

Congratulations to our Winners

Congratulations to the winners of our November André Rieu Screening giveaway.

Louis Belcourt Paul Pawlak Pauline Atkinson

William Lawson Yvonne Haley

Stay tuned to the paper and our website for the latest Seniors News Giveaways

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Visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitions

Got More Spare Clothes Than Your Local Op Shop?

When your wardrobe overflows and choosing an outfit is harder than climbing Everest, it’s time to clean-out and get some cash.

Don’t delay. Start your spring clean and head to finda.com.au to reach thousands of fashionistas from near & far.

SENIORS \\FEBRUARY, 2019

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

1

2

3

PUZZLES 4

5

6

7

8 9 10 11 12

13

14

15

16

17 18

19

20

21

22

23

24 25

Down 1 What small magnifying glass is used by a jeweller? (5) 2 What hard quartz produces a spark when struck with steel? (5) 3 What small ornament is attached to a bracelet? (5) 4 Which African antelope can leap nine metres? (6) 6/7 Which daughter of grocery shop owner Alf Roberts became known worldwide? (8,8) 12 What is a paid office or post involving minimal duties?

(8) 13 What is a composition for an orchestra and a soloist?

(8) 14 What is a disorderly or violent crowd? (3) 15 What does “sec” on a wine label mean? (3) 19 What is the opposite of perigee? (6) 21/22 Which blonde starred in Hitchcock’s Dial M For Murder and Rear Window? (5,5) 23 Which golfer (Sam ___) was the first PGA Tour player to shoot his age (of 67)? (5)

Across 5 What is the most common surname in Scotland? (5) 8 Which musical was the first to feature an on-stage death? (8) 9 What is the main ingredient of butter? (5) 10 Which body organ produces insulin? (8) 11 In Oliver Twist, which member of Fagin’s gang is murdered by Bill Sikes? (5) 14 Alfred E Neuman is closely associated with which magazine? (3) 16 An obi is worn around what? (6) 17 What word for a cannabis cigarette originated in the 1930s? (6) 18 What word can precede leaf, window and rum? (3) 20 What is a dealer in stolen goods? (5) 24 Napoleon’s surgeon Baron Dominique Larrey could amputate a leg in how many seconds? (8) 25 Mulligatawny is seasoned with what? (5) 26 From Latin, what is an expression of guilt? (3,5) 27 Which 6th-Century Greek collected fables? (5)

39 26/1

26 27

SUDOKU

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

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

5x5

ALPHAGRAMS

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

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 fiveletter solution starts with J, the six-letter solution starts with K, and so on.

A

11

T P

12

13

14

15

16

18

19

L

S

R R

17

R S

PAGES THE ELM TENSION INTO JARS PINK DRAPE

C

T

S

S

Note: more than one solution may be possible.

20

SOLUTIONS 21

ahem base beam beams behave behaves bema bevies ease eaves hames have haves heave heaves heavies hems hive mashie mesa mesh MISBEHAVE mise same save seam seem semi shame shave sheave shive sieve vase vibe vies

22

R E S T S

QUICK CROSSWORD Across: 1. Dais 8. Extinguish 9. Martinet 10. Heir 12. Voiced 14. Streak 15.

Dilute 17. Scaled 18. Stop 19. Construe 21. More or less 22. Knew.

Down: 2. Antagonist 3. Sent 4. Atoned 5. Unites 6. Euphoria 7. Char 11.

Inadequate 13. Crumpled 16. Escort 17. Sunder 18. Same 20. Task.

Solution opposite

BLACKOUT

ALPHAGRAMS: GAPES, HELMET, INTONES, JANITORS, KIDNAPPER.

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

E L E C T

How many words of four letters or more can you make? Each letter must be used only once and all words must contain the centre letter. There is at least one nine-letter word.

No words starting with a capital are allowed, no plurals ending in s unless the word is also a verb.

TODAY: Good 22 Very Good 28 Excellent 33

DOUBLE CROSS

T I R E S

A E

S P O R E

617

WORD GO ROUND

H M

SUDOKU

5x5

A S S E T

E

GK CROSSWORD Across: 5 Smith. 8 Oklahoma. 9 Cream. 10 Pancreas. 11 Nancy. 14 Mad. 16 Kimono. 17 Reefer. 18 Bay. 20 Fence. 24 Fourteen. 25 Curry. 26 Mea culpa.

27 Aesop.

Down: 1 Loupe. 2 Flint. 3 Charm. 4 Impala. 6/7 Margaret Thatcher. 12 Sinecure. 13 Concerto. 14 Mob. 15 Dry. 19 Apogee. 21/22 Grace Kelly. 23 Snead.

I S

B V

Down 2. Opponent (10) 3. Despatched (4) 4. Made amends (6) 5. Joins (6) 6. Elation (8) 7. Burn (4) 11. Insufficient (10) 13. Crushed (8) 16. Accompany (6) 17. Break apart (6) 18. Identical (4) 20. Job (4)

WORD GO ROUND

Across 1. Platform (4) 8. Put out (10) 9. Disciplinarian (8) 10. Successor (4) 12. Spoke up (6) 14. Run naked (6) 15. Weaken (6) 17. Climbed (6) 18. Halt (4) 19. Understand (8) 21. Approximately (4,2,4) 22. Was aware of (4)

N I B E X R O S L N P E A S T

J W E T Y W V E R G E B B W K

R E G A L I A D E Q A D R A N

E C U W E C L N D U C X I Q E

D E N I M D I I O V E R D U E

I V D N O Q H C V K F Z G I U

D A T E R S A I R L I N E L M

P R X R H U N B A H O U D U E

K N I T S J G E T V R E S I N

O D R M U M C S U U A E C N V

W A K E F U L O R U M B A N I

T C L P F C I H R A R M R Q E

S I X T I E S T E V O L V E D

Z D L V C Z P S T Q D L E K Z

M B U N E A S E P M M O S L O

BLACKOUT

Work out which squares need to be deleted to reveal a completed crossword.

Solution opposite

DOUBLE CROSS

R I E B E G A E X Y L I O V A E R E G P E A E A B R A S K N

E D I D K W S E A N A C I D U N T I R K X U I N E R T E T N R S U F F I C E E M U E A H A N G L I S P S L I E E D O R T U R R E T V L U V C E I R A M R O D R N E B L O S C A R V E S I D G E U I E L E E E N V I E D O

40

CENTRAL COAST

FEBRUARY, 2019// SENIORS