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2 Seniors Central Coast

In this edition

Profile: Ian ‘Macca’ MacNamara ..........................Page 3 Cover Story: Don Burke ..........................................Page 4 What’s On................................................................Page 10 Travel ...............................................................Pages 11–13 Wellbeing........................................................Pages 20–21 Puzzles ....................................................................Page 27

Contact us Editor Gail Forrer gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Consultant Sue Germany - Phone: 0438 280 894 Sue.Germany@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Now 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 south-east 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.

Welcome

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

Finding myself in a gum tree moment

HOLD on I’m having an Aussie moment.

With Don Burke on our front cover, rubbing shoulders on inside pages with Macca, I’m feeling right at home among the gum trees.

In 1987, a version of the song Home Among the Gum Trees seeped into the Australian consciousness as the introduction song to Burke’s Backyard television program.

Similar to the theme of Burke’s Backyard, the song recognised and celebrated all things that were, very simply, Australian.

The song was written in 1974 by Bob Brown and Wally Johnston, then the great Aussie band Bullamakanka did a version and the next thing you know John Williamson was singing it and Aussies were humming it across Australia.

The timeless rhythm, playful tune together with those marvellous, earthy

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK GAIL FORRER Group editor Seniors Newspapers network

Australian lyrics captured the country’s collective imagination and had us all tapping along.

For 17 years, every Friday night via television, the tune’s magic properties welcomed us into the backyards of Australia.

In 2006, at Steve Irwin’s memorial at Australia Zoo, a crowd of thousands joined the chorus as John Williamson sang: “Give me a home among the gum trees, With lots of plum trees, A sheep or two, A k-kangaroo, A clothes lines out the back, Verandah out the front, And an old rocking chair”.

As he watched from

above, perhaps Steve would have responded with a “Crikey”, as he saw all these people sing with pride of their connection with him, their community and their country.

Thirty-five years of broadcasting the radio show “Australian All Over” hosted by Macca (Ian MacNamara), proves our love of Aussie culture has not diminished (and I very much enjoy the ditty to this show too).

For about four decades these creative men have transformed their appreciation for Australian life into performance, song, and media productions in doing that they have made it possible for us to look into this mirror and identify our Australian character.

Since we are all Seniors here, I can’t miss highlighting the fact that these people would have to be the poster boys of the Active Ageing movement.

I also think they would

have to be in the line-up for Creative Ageing awards (last month’s editorial theme).

But much like this famous song, I too have been to foreign shores – seen the sights and had delights.

Travelling over planet earth is nothing less than awe inspiring and I have to say that as I sit behind my desk in front of the black framed computer reading through Ann Rickard’s Greek Island stories, I have suffered the occasional pang of severe jealousy.

On the other hand, if you can’t do the real thing, armchair travelling is certainly the next best thing. (Don’t forget to check out Ann’s travel videos on our facebook.)

Whether, national, local or in your own backyard, I trust you enjoy the catch-up conversations with our creative contemporaries.

— Gail

Spring into new planting ideas with Don Burke

SPRING WITH DON BURKE: Don with grandson Joshua, 3, planting a flower and vegie garden in tank raised garden beds that don’t take up a lot of space, but can still produce plenty of fruit and vegetables.

PHOTO: MAREA BURKE

IT’s the new gardening year for most of Australia as the blossom flowers bloom and gardeners start planning their summer pickings. Before turning that plan into reality, here’s a few tips from gardening guru Don Burke.

World’s easiest vegie garden “For older people who are not prepared to have a gigantic garden, they can have a small vegie garden, grow their own produce and it’s very manageable, and you can get a lot of satisfaction from growing

edible plants,” Don said.

“You can buy virtually ready-to-eat plants. They often come in 20-30cm pots. What that means, for some of the miniature tomato varieties, is they will grow quite happily in that.”

“All of those in an eight-inch to a foot diameter pot can go on your balcony as long as the pots get sun most of the day or put it out in the garden or near the front door, and you can grow quite a bit of edible food in a very small area.”

Don says if you are only

going to grow one fruit, it should be strawberries.

“They are unbelievably good plants in the ground, but particularly in pots,” he said.

“They will fruit for many years and all they need is fertilising say once a month with a gentle liquid fertiliser.”

Try something new Don is keen for older gardeners to turn their gardening hands this spring to growing espaliered plants which are tied flat to lattice work, for example. Fruit trees such as citrus,

apple and even olives, grown from when they are purchased with willowy stems, are easy to train flat. “It’s perfect for a sunny balcony and for an easy picking plant,” he said Planted in a pot of no less than 50cm diameter with two vertical timber pieces which have the lattice work screwed to it and with u-shaped plastic clips which can be purchased from gardening stores, your willowy plant can quickly be turned into an espalier plant. See page 4 for more on Don.

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Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Profile: Ian ‘Macca’ MacNamara

Central Coast

Macca’s been all over Oz for 35 years Aussies keep coming back to the show that reflects their everyday life and society Alison Houston

IAN ‘Macca’ MacNamara is surprisingly humble for a man who has hosted a top-rating ABC radio show for 35 years.

Congratulated on what is an almost unheard of milestone, the voice of Australia All Over said the

show’s success was less about him and more about the ordinary Australians who called in and shared their stories.

“It is a really exciting and rewarding program to work on because it connects us,” Macca said.

“There are so many divisions in society today.

Seniors 3

AGELESS: Australia All Over presenter Macca reckons he still loves the job 35 years on because it connects ordinary Australians of all ages and backgrounds.

“We don’t talk about them on Sunday morning (when the show airs).

“We don’t get into the political fray.

“It’s always been a very Australian program and what it does is reflect society, and the lives and wants and needs of ordinary Australians.”

Australia All Over live from Launceston in 1982, with Macca (far right) meeting some of the local ABC staff.

But Macca’s is no ordinary story.

A Sydney boy, who completed an economics degree before heading bush to be a jackaroo, Macca became singer/guitarist for the legendary Col Joye and the Joy Boys before joining the ABC in 1974, working on TV’s A Big Country and Countrywide.

He moved to Rural Radio in 1980 and became host of Australia All Over two years later.

In 1987 the program went national, after city travellers who heard the regional show demanded to know why they couldn’t hear it in their own lounge rooms every Sunday.

But how has it kept its appeal over all those years? Has much changed?

“It’s always been about ordinary Australians going about their ordinary lives, and it still is,” Macca said.

“It’s fascinating what people do and the places they call from, whether it’s a ringer at Kurrumba Downs Station or religious people, truckies, people

on oil rigs or kids interested in rocks.

“It’s just a lovely reflection of what life’s all about.

“People like hearing other Australians, their down-to-earth attitudes, their humour, their spirit and positivity.

“There’s not many places in the media you get that today, and it’s that reassurance that most Australians are good decent people.”

Just back from an outside broadcast in Blackall (about 1000km north-west of Brisbane), Macca said he loved travelling the country and getting out and meeting listeners.

He’s been to about 200 destinations over the show’s 35 years, from the middle of the desert at Old Andado Station, six hours south-west of Alice Springs, to Gatton in Queensland after the 2011 floods, to the centre of Sydney.

“OBs are pretty special.

You get up at four in the morning in a strange town after travelling all day and

you might find 3000-4000 people waiting for you in a park in Toowoomba or Adelaide, or 30-40 people in a remote Aboriginal community like Oak Valley in central Australia – it’s wonderful.”

And, while he has always received letters and shortwave calls from outside Australia, Macca said there were an increasing number of people reaching out on the internet from around the world.

“The world moves a lot faster these days.

“Life’s changed, society’s changed.

“We’ve got mobile phones and technology, but Sunday is still that bit slower and quieter, when you have a chance to sit and listen to the radio and relax.

“You could be surfing the net, but we surf Australia every Sunday morning – we talk to Australia and the world.”

Australia All Over airs on Sundays from 5.30-10am EST on ABC Radio.

4 Seniors Central Coast

Cover Story: Don Burke

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

INNOVATIVE : Don Burke in his secret garden and his lifelong joy breeding budgies.

PHOTO: MAREA BURKE

No weeds grow under Backyard’s first bloke Tracey Johnstone

o l F w g i

crocodile, so I told them it was great for virility, at which point they ate the lot,” he quipped.

The only native edible plant he grows in that garden section is the common lilly pilly.

“It produces little berries, about the size of a pea, and abundant fruit, and that makes a brilliant jam like quince jelly, and a great sauce to use on meat.”

In another part of his garden, quarantined from the indigenous section, are his lovingly cultivated citrus and vegetables plants.

The 70-year-old remains full of energy and enthusiasm for promoting happy, healthy lifestyles.

He remembers his Burke’s Backyard television show as the pioneer for the cloned

television lifestyle shows which now seem to dominate our prime viewing times.

“I trained as a horticulturist and was a nurseryman for many years,” Don said.

“I then noticed worldwide that the media, in terms of lifestyle and gardening, wasn’t very professional.

“It was really more out of anger and disappointment at how gardening shows were, that I just determined to do it (the show).”

From there, Burke’s Backyard was born. But, don’t ever call it a gardening show. Don said it was all about Australian’s backyards.

“We invented the concept of lifestyle. From day one it consisted of dogs, cats, backyard

pools, kids, decorating the house, building, cooking and plants,” he said.

As to why he almost always wore a woollen jumper on the show, he reveals they were the solution to the problem of where to put his microphone so it would stay close enough to clearly catch his voice.

“Very quickly after we started doing that, many women started sending in jumpers. I loved these jumpers,” Don said.

During the show and by its end 18 years later, Don made sure his jumpers were donated to charities which helped raise “many thousands of dollars”.

“You’d be surprised how much money they went for,” Don said.

One passion Don doesn’t talk a lot about

widely, but which he has treasured for 64 years, is his delightfully colourful budgerigars.

“I have never really distinguished plants and pets; I think they are the one thing,” he said.

“I started breeding exhibition budgies at about seven or eight, published my first genetics theories at 12, so I was a strange little kid.

“One of the great things about getting old is you can return to the passion of your life.

“For those that are not doing what is their passion, get a life and go do what you love doing.”

When asked if he was planning on slowing down any time soon, an emphatic “no” is all that can be heard from the energetic lifestyle leader.

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GREEN thumb expert Don Burke reveals some little known secrets about his passions that have kept the enthusiastic gardener, television star and flower show guest living life to the full.

In one part of his life, he continues to delight all those lucky enough to meet him as he travels throughout Australia presenting gardening shows. However, when those jobs are complete, the outspoken advocate for keeping life simple, but fun, retreats to his small acreage to continue working on his garden and other enthralling passions.

Tucked away in one corner of his Sydney home is a secret garden Don has nurtured for the

enjoyment of his two grandsons. In one area, native orchids overhang from the rocks, and make colourful pickings for the children to present to their mother. In another corner of his five acres he grows Australian indigenous plants, most of which are local natives. It’s one of the few of its kind in Australia.

From time to time Don even allows overseas visitors to the private garden.

“A while back we had a big Chinese group came through as they hadn’t seen Australian gardens,” Don said.

During the visit, he and his wife Marea set up lunch using native Australian food.

“The guests were mostly men and were quite worried about eating

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Local Story

Central Coast

Trevor wins top gong for Artist Chris JOURNALIST ALISON HOUSTON A COMMISSIONED painting that was never picked up has taken out this year’s Grandma Moses Art Competition and earnt Chris Ireland a $1000 prize.

The real estate agent and owner of Chic with ARTitude studio at Ettalong Beach said she had known the piece Trevor was special, but “it was a lovely shock” to win.

The acrylic painting of the dog with a bone certainly has character, and Chris said it had come together quite

quickly, in probably 6-10 hours.

Painting since 2009, after being convinced by a friend to “have a go”, and having now run her own studio for almost four years, Chris seems an appropriate winner of the Grandma Moses prize, having discovered her talent later in life.

However, at 56 this year, she wasn’t quite such a late bloomer as the prize’s namesake whose career started at 78 and resulted in more than 1500 pieces in the last 23 years of her life.

Chris admits the studio and her art, specialising in portraits of people and pets, probably provide the perfect balance to the pressures of working in real estate. She runs adult classes Wednesday

and Thursday mornings and primary-school aged classes on Wednesday afternoons. The difference between the two, she says, is “kids are braver”, not to mention helpful, coming up with lots of ideas on how their teacher could spend her prizemoney... on them.

There were 179 entries in this year’s competition, specifically for over-50s, an increase on last year.

Other winners were Irene Collings for her watercolour Sand & Surf, Sandy Solway in the novice division for Going for Broke and a double win for Sandra Stellino for Grass Tree Country and Seen Better Days in the Leisure and Learning Centre’s art group and Central Coast-inspired sections.

Seniors 5

A WINNING DOG: Central Coast Council administrator Ian Reynolds congratulates Chris Ireland on her Grandma Moses Art Competition win.

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6 Seniors Central Coast

Local Story

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

Hazel is Mariners’ No.1 fan NOTHING will keep Hazel Smith away from Central Coast Mariners’ home games – not even her granddaughter’s wedding, who has been warned.

Hazel at 74 is proud to say she’s a one-eyed Mariners fan, and hasn’t missed them at home since the team’s inception in 2004.

While the team that reached the grand final in its inaugural year has had a few tough seasons of late, including a wooden spoon, Hazel’s never given up hope or her season seat, and reckons they should make the finals this year with new coach ex-Socceroo Paul Okon and his new signings.

A 1-0 pre-season win over Wellington Phoenix on September 12, just after we spoke, would have given her heart.

The 2017 season kicks off on Saturday, October 7, with a derby against the Newcastle Jets.

The local derbies are always passionate matches, Hazel said, especially with the Jets and Mariners now giving fans free access to each other’s grounds for the face-offs, meaning it should be a good turn-out

of more than 10,000.

Originally from Newcastle, Hazel’s been living on the Central Coast for more than 50 years and despite being involved in soccer all her life, following her dad (a Newcastle goalie himself in the 1920s) to her brother’s matches, she said there were no divided loyalties – she’ll be cheering for the Mariners all the way.

“They’re still my team whether they win or lose,” Hazel said.

“You don’t stop backing them or going to games just because they’re not on top.”

But, unfortunately, others haven’t felt the same, and Hazel is keen to get fans back behind the local boys.

“That’s what we need – people to get behind the local team and stay there,” Hazel said.

She said the introduction of overseas marquee players had made it tough on the locals, who couldn’t match the deep pockets of the likes of Melbourne City, supported by England’s Manchester City.

But she said they still

MARINERS MAD: Hazel Smith with last year’s marquee signing Luis Garcia, a Spanish international who had previously played for Liverpool in the English Premier League.

boasted the largest number of players going on to play nationally for the Socceroos, and she was hopeful of a big turnaround with this year’s signings of Dutch midfielders Tom Hiariej and Wout Brama and Spaniards Alan Baro (centre back) and striker Asdrubal.

“So long as we win a few games and we’re competitive, I’ll be happy.

But we’ve got to aim for the finals, don’t we?” she

laughed.

Hazel has been at each of the Mariners’ grand final tilts and admits “crying her eyes out” when they went down to Brisbane in a penalty shootout in 2011.

She’ll also never forget the exhilaration of their premiership win over the Western Sydney Wanderers in 2013 in front of a crowd of more than 40,000.

“I was too scared to believe we would win, just

being there was exciting, but the win was the icing on the cake,” she said.

And speaking of cake, when it comes to birthday cake, the Mariners had something special for Hazel, with one of their biggest fans being presented with the game coin to toss by the team’s first coach, Laurie McKinna, on her 70th birthday.

She holds season tickets for four generations of her own

family, including her two-year-old greatgrandson, and urges others to get behind what she says is a real family centred club, with a great spirit.

Full season membership includes all 13 home matches at Central Coast Stadium for as low as $16.15 per game, as well as entry to the derbies at Newcastle.

To find out more, go to the Mariners website www.ccmariners.com.au.

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Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Central Coast

Seniors 7

Ease the stress of age

HOME Care and Community Care Services can help improve lives and ease the stress and worry on family.

It’s not easy for us to know or admit when an aging parent might need a bit of a helping hand.

The thought of them entering the next phase of their lives can be confronting and something we don’t really want to think about.

And if it’s hard for us, it’s likely to be difficult for your independent parents to admit they might need some help… let alone ask for it.

Often by ignoring the problem or putting it off can result in needing help suddenly due to a fall, a stroke or an illness.

Not being prepared can throw your life, and theirs, into chaos which can cause stress and tears.

However, by knowing what to look for, having a plan and understanding that you don’t have to do it alone, entering this phase can be a nothing more than a subtle transition. In fact, as many discover, it can be a life enhancer for

them (and a stress reliever for you).

KNOWING WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Changes in physical function and motor skills Difficulty walking and getting around? Difficulty sitting down or getting up from a seat? Using furniture or walls to keep balance when getting around the house?

Dizziness? More effort doing simple things (like opening a window)?

Personal hygiene Unshaven, messy hair, unbrushed teeth, fingernails? Showering less? Strong body odour?

The smell of urine (or incontinence)?

Physical appearance Has your parent lost weight or gained weight (could be due to depression, binging, trouble cooking, trouble shopping)? Do they have difficulty changing clothes? Wearing the same clothes day after day?

Injuries Have you noticed any injuries or bruises on your

parent (explained or unexplained)? Have they fallen? Do they have any bruises from bumping into things? Have they got any burns (from cooking, etc)?

Are injuries or chronic pain slowing them down (back agony, painful knees, etc?)

Household and garden maintenance Are your parents finding it difficult to maintain the upkeep of the house or garden? Is there unopened mail? Unpaid bills? Unfilled prescriptions? How are the fridge and cupboards (are they running low on food, or is there out of date or mouldy food around)? Is washing starting to pile up?

Unwashed pots, pans and dishes? Is there garbage or clutter in the house or yard? Is the garden overgrown? Are plants or vegetable patches dying?

Is the grass getting tall? Is the car dirty? Does the car have new dents and scratches?

Changes in mood and personality Mood swings? Irritability?

Argumentative? Swearing

and cursing from someone who never uttered a rude word?

Rapid changes in behaviour? Is a usually talkative parent becoming withdrawn and reserved?

Confusion or forgetfulness Have they been missing appointments? Forgetting day to day things?

Forgetting to take medication? Having memory lapses? Losing or misplacing items? Having trouble recalling the names of family or friends? Have they been getting lost while walking or driving? Having trouble keeping track of time?

Using poor judgment or not using their reasoning effectively? Losing themselves half way through sentences or repeating themselves?

Difficulty performing day to day tasks?

Withdrawal, loss of motivation, depression Are they lacking drive and initiative? Increased sleeping patterns? Have they stopped going out or doing the things they used to love? Stopped seeing friends?

Are they failing to return your phone calls and messages? Have they been wearing the same clothes each day?

Difficulties with everyday activities Have they been having difficulties with day to day activities? Bathing or showering? Personal hygiene? Grooming?

Dressing? Preparing food?

Eating?

What to do if you start noticing some of the signs that your parents might need some help If you haven’t already, have a conversation with your parents about their wants, desires and needs.

Have they thought about what sort of care they would consider?

The good news is that, if you have a bit of a plan and know that there’s help available, then a lot of the time, not too much has to change.

The preferred option for many is in-home care because it means your parents don’t have to go anywhere. They get to stay in their same warm, familiar, comfortable home surrounded by the

things they love instead of hospital or a nursing home.

In-home care can take care of just about everything. From gardening and housekeeping to personal care and clinical nursing.

Even complex care cases can be accommodated.

You and your siblings can rest at ease knowing that your parents are being taken care of by warm, friendly professionals.

Worry, guilt and burden can be replaced with peace of mind. With a bit of help taking care of day to day activities and a new face around, they often start regaining their independence, feeling inspired to take up new hobbies, spend more time with family and friends and have an improved wellbeing.

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8 Seniors Central Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

Talk’n’thoughts Hurdles, highjumps and solutions

Share your thoughts

Email editor@seniors newspaper.com.au or go online to www.seniorsnews. com.au

Mental note: I am not ageist DON’T say that again, it’s discriminatory. My friend made that comment after a certain memory escaped me and I smiled and filled in the gap with an: “Oh dear, it’s a senior moment”.

Really, I thought, no need to be so serious. I said I only used that phrase occasionally and I saw it simply as one of those things that people, including myself, begin to say at a certain age and I warned her that I wasn’t fond of over-the-top politically correct language. She didn’t get my reasoning: “It’s age discrimination against ourselves,” she persisted. “It continues the myth that a memory slip-up is an inevitable part of ageing – which it is not.”

After a bit more argy

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK GAIL FORRER

Group editor Seniors Newspapers network

bargy, I could see her point. These days, most of us are mindful of typecasting other people through stereotypical descriptions, but seem not to care so much about ourselves. I guess, that would make us our own worst enemy. And yes, how can we expect others to stop ageist thinking, if we use it against ourselves.

In effect, as this light-hearted phrase becomes inbuilt into my own and other’s conversation, I concede that we are slowly, but

SENIORS NEWS: Celebrating the age of active wisdom.

surely, reinforcing the myth that memory loss is automatically connected with age: This certainly

doesn’t support a positive ageing attitude. An extract of article in Welcome Trust, Ageing: Can We

Stop the Clock? Welcome Focus (2006) was clear about the disadvantages. “… in clinging to stereotypes, we overlook the advantages of having larger numbers than ever before of older people rich in skills and life experience that they can, and do, contribute not only to the economy but also to their families and communities”.

Dr Barry Gordon in his book Memory: Remembering and Forgetting in Everyday Life, notes that each individual experiences a variation in memory over the course of their lifetime and declares that forgetfulness is a sign that something is wrong with your brain.

Incorrect, he says. “If we didn’t possess the capacity to forget we’d all

go crazy. The ability to remember what is important and the ability to discard the rest is a skill to be treasured.”

Recently, I came across the wise words of American writer and social anthropologist Mary Catherine Bateson. In her book, Composing a further life, she talks about the age of ‘Active Wisdom’ which she defines this as the time of life: “When you have the harvest of a life of learning and thinking and observing, and you are still active”.

I hope to include myself in that category and if you do too, how about we recognise and appreciate who we really are rather than undermining ourselves through silly comments.

— Cheers Gail

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Local Story

Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Central Coast

Seniors 9

Putt Putt Regatta is afloat Alison Houston

THE Davistown Putt Putt Regatta and Wooden Boat Festival on Sunday, October 22, is a full day of water-based fun, celebrating these unique little boats and their distinctive sound.

Event secretarytreasurer Neil Mulcahy said while this would be the festival’s 19th running as an annual event (having missed 2011), regattas were held in Davistown as far back as the early 1900s, with pride on the line as boat owners and builders vied to prove they had the fastest putt putt or could row the quickest.

The boats themselves are generally 4–6m open timber-built craft, powered by a simple low-speed single or twin-cylinder motor that gives them the ‘putt putt’ exhaust sound.

Many of the boats are pre-war construction, dating from the late 1920s to 1940s. While most are passed on through family or simply purchased, Neil became involved in putt putts in a unique way – he bought one with his house!

It dated from the 1930s

and Neil admits it was appealing to take the half-sunk, dilapidated little craft and get it working again and competing in the regattas.

These days, 40–50 boats regularly line up for the event, with people travelling from Queensland and the ACT to take part, but not so long ago – in 2007 – up to 100 putt putts were entered.

Unfortunately, as owners get older, entries fall, so there’s a real need for owners to get their children enthused and for the mantle to be taken up by a new generation of active retirees or younger.

Now run jointly by the Lions Club of Green Point Avoca and Davistown Progress Association, the event’s aim is to “promote an active interest in all matters relating to the history, development, building, restoration and preservation of wooden boats”.

As well as the Putt Putt Challenge, there is a grand parade of boats from Davistown to Woy Woy and return, a Boy Scout raft race, dragon boats, as well as prizes for best-dressed boat and crew.

VIKING INVASION: How far would the Vikings have got in a putt putt? Neil Mulcahy gives the grandkids a reason to love history.

Putt putts, many dating from the late 1920s to 1940s, take to the water for the Davistown Putt Putt Regatta and Wooden Boat Festival.

Neil dressed his boat as the Batmobile last year and got the grandkids involved in the superhero theme, but you can expect to see everything from Star Wars to paddle boat

and Viking themes.

Meanwhile, on land there are about 80 different food and general stalls, as well as local music and entertainment, with the event attracting

up to 12,000 people to the Davistown foreshore.

Boat entries will be taken right up to the day, so you still have time to brush off that old boat and join the fun.

For details about the Regatta and the regatta ball on October 20, visit davistownputtputt.com, email puttputt.regatta @gmail.com or phone Neil on 0407 336 447.

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10 Seniors Central Coast

Entertainment

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

What’s on JOURNALIST ALISON HOUSTON

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL

YOU are bound to see some familiar and other long-forgotten faces in the Central Coast Council’s display of photographs by the late Les Allen of 1960s and ’70s performing legends. Talks on the subject by history librarian Geoffrey Potter sold out, but you can still see the photos of early Bee Gees, Dinah Lee, Johnny O’Keefe, Little Pattie and Sandy Scott among others. It’s been such a hit, the display has moved from Tuggerah Library to Gosford Library until Friday, October 13.

JAZZ IN THE ARBORETUM

ON October 1, the pianist often referred to by critics and his peers as one of the finest artists in the world, Simon Tedeschi, and multi- instrumentalist George Washingmachine are featured. The event is run by Pearl Beach Progress Association, and tickets ($45 adults, $25 children) let you enjoy a unique experience with world- class artists in a native bushland setting.

Don’t miss out on your tickets and then grab your rug and a picnic and head along. Go to www. pearl beachprogress.org.au.

TWICE THE THEATRE

THE Art House Wyong is presenting acclaimed playwright Alana Valentine’s coming-of-age piece, Grounded, set in Newcastle. It captures the contrasts of an industrial

city re-inventing itself in a new century, and looks at the way life can take us to places we don’t expect. It is paired with Children of the Black Skirt, in which children discover the ruins of an orphanage and the history of its inhabitants, in a two-show package October 7, 13 and 14. Go to www.thearthouse wyong.com.au.

WHETHER you want to try your hand, or just enjoy looking at watercolours, Gosford Regional Art Gallery is the place to be from 10am-4pm Friday, September 29-Sunday, October 8. The Central Coast Watercolour Society’s Springtime Exhibition will showcase paintings, cards and unframed works of local artists and there’s free Try Your Hand sessions from 1-4pm on the weekend of September 30 and October 1, with tuition and artist quality materials.

Call 0409 666 709 or go to http://centralcoast watercolour.com.au.

ROYAL HOTEL SPECTACULAR

THE Royal Hotel is getting you up close and personal with leading ladies and gentlemen of musical theatre, cabaret and comedy to hear showbiz gossip as well as some great songs in what is billed as “an unforgettable night of old fashioned, quality entertainment”.

And since their last two shows sold out, you have to think they are getting it right. It’s on Saturday, October 14 from 8pm with cabaret-style seating. Call 4352 1012.

GEMS AND TREASURES

THIS is a great event to share with the grandkids – or just enjoy it yourself.

It’s free and there’s an auditorium full of treasures to explore on the weekend of October 14-15 thanks to Central Coast Lapidary Club Inc. There will be dealers from all over Australia bringing tools, minerals, gemstones and jewellery with plenty of stones in the rough, polished, carved or set in jewellery.

It’s at the Events Centre, Mingara Recreation Club, Tumbi Umbi.

ART AND WELLNESS

FRANCISCO Pacheco’s Art and Wellness exhibition is

COMMUNITY GARDEN

BLACK SWANS IN LOVE: Francisco Pacheco explores the use of imagination and colour to change our view of reality in his exhibition at the Art House Wyong from October 17 to November 11.

PHOTO: MARC CHARETTE

on at the Art House Wyong from October 17November 11 showcasing oils, acrylics, watercolours and ink pieces that explore the use of imagination and colour to change or enhance what we would otherwise call reality.

Living locally, Francisco has been painting for 40 years, 29 in Australia, and will also run free workshops on Drawing with Imagination in which attendees can explore different ways of increasing their mental activity while drawing and producing beautiful artwork.

GOSFORD ROTARY GALA CONCERT

WHATEVER your musical tastes, you should be covered at the Rotary Gala Concert on October 21, with a host of local musicians and singers including Central Coast Brass, the Central Coast Concert Band, Central Coast Philharmonia and the Youth Orchestra. It’s at Central Coast Leagues Club from 2pm. Adults $35. Call 4324 7477.

SEVENS ACTION

OKAY, I’m getting a bit ahead of myself here, but if you’ve ever been to a Sevens tournament, you will know why. The UON

Central Coast Sevens, from October 27-29, is Australia’s premier rugby Sevens event outside of the world series. It’s described as “explosive, end-to-end, heart-racing action, with big collisions, electrifying speed and skill, featuring some of the strongest international sevens teams and sevens action in the world”. I’d say that’s just sporting superlatives and clichés, but, when it comes to Sevens, it usually isn’t! So check it out on www.central coastsevens.com.au.

SPRINGTIME WATERCOLOURS

IF YOU like to garden but have maybe moved into an apartment, or haven’t got the space for the vegie’s you’d love to grow, Wyong Neighbourhood Centre has a Community Garden working bee each Wednesday from 12-2.30pm. It’s a chance to get your hands dirty and meet like-minded community members. Call 4353 1750.

SPRING FESTIVAL

THIS is a celebration of fun, friendship and community. Rhonda Burchmore has endeared herself to many Australians and in her one-woman show, she performs songs from shows she’s starred in over the decades. A sizzling show, not to be missed! On October 6, 10am to 12pm at Henry Kendall Gardens, 150 Maidens Brush Road, Wyoming. To book go to https://events.spring retirementfestival. com.au/dc/reg/ HENRYKENDALL-GARDENS

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Central Coast

Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 11

Travel

10

ANN Rickard has visited the Greek islands every year for the past 15 years.

She gives us 10 reasons why she’d love to buy the Greek islands.

1. Because it sounds marvellous: There is something special about saying, ‘the Greek islands’. It’s like saying ‘the Bahamas’ or ‘the Maldives’. It has a ring of the exotic about it. (Not that you want to go to the Greek islands just to say it out loud… but, it sounds pretty good, no?)

2. The Aegean: I could give you 10 reasons alone about the joy of the sea in

things to love about the Greek islands

Greece. Swimming in the Aegean is like wrapping yourself in silk like immersing yourself in an invigorating salt bath. The sea is so clear and blue it is like looking through a bottle of Bombay Sapphire Gin. 3. Sunshine, lots of it: If you go in summer (and when else?), you are guaranteed consistent sunlight. In my 15 years of summers in Greece, I have never once encountered a cloudy sky or a drop of rain. It is the guarantee of consistent sunshine from sunrise to sunset that makes it

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ideal.

4. Greek salads: Sunripened tomatoes, briny black olives, crunchy cucumber, rings of red onion, full-fat feta, a sprinkle of oregano and a dressing of olive oil (Greek of course) and lemon juice. Greece on a plate eat it every day.

5. The sea again: There is no fear of shark attacks or rips or currents to wash you out to sea, so swim out as far as you dare, look down through the crystal-clear water past your toes and the ocean bed below, tread water and stay there until you

feel 10 years younger.

6. Choice: So many islands offering different aspects. Party person?

Mykonos is your go. Crave peace and quiet?

Karpathos is still reasonably empty. History and culture? Rhodes has so much of it. Making new friends from around the world? Crete has a plethora of global visitors in the summer.

7. Getting around:. Fast ferries and speedy catamarans are good if you want to island hop.

They run all day and early evening in the summer.

Best to do your research

h u t TA L K S Discover where your next holiday will take you, with our information session in the Journeys room at The Travellers Hut.

arm yourself with timetables and plan.

Flying is quick, but you must contend with small airports and often delayed flights… not for us seniors.

8. Blue and white and splashes of red: White-washed villas, blue domed churches, crimson bougainvillea… don’t need to say any more.

9. Santorini: The rock-star of all the islands. Soaring brown cliffs rising from the caldera topped with clusters of white buildings that look like icing sugar, give Santorini the wow factor. Vivid lingering

sunsets that defy belief, windmills, panoramic views out over the caldera… Santorini tops the bucket list of travellers across the world.

10. Plate smashing: Mostly only done in the tourist restaurants but fun to watch, as is a Greek dance show: lots of zorba and leg lifting and swift kicking. You’ll find plenty of these tourist restaurants in the Plaka below the Acropolis in Athens. Starting your Greek island hop with a stay in the vibrant Plaka will set you up for a perfect holiday.

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12 Seniors Central Coast

Travel

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

Greek Island Mykonos is the place to be seen Ann discovers after 12 years others have also found her Mykonos Ann Rickard

THE Greek island of Mykonos is an island synonymous with parties, noise, loud music, young people and night clubs that open from midnight until dawn.

A holiday destination that certainly doesn’t sound like the choice of the seniors community.

But 12 years ago, we discovered a small bay about 5km from the main town, away from the usual hedonism associated with Mykonos.

Psarou Bay is small sandy beach, lapped by a serene sea dotted with fishing boats and was all anyone could want in a Greek island.

But at first, we were cautious. If you are going to Mykonos, you want to be in the famous town with its paved grey-andwhite labyrinthine streets, its famous windmills, shops, the port, the restaurants … all the dazzle.

“We can always hire a car and go into town when we want,” I said to the husband, who was not keen on staying so far out of town.

We found a family-run place right on the beach called Soula Rooms.

Next door, a small taverna presented seafood and retsina at modest prices. Simplicity melded with paradise.

And best of all,

CHANGING FACE: Little Venice in Mykonos.

swimming in the gin-clear sea was an experience like no other.

We revelled in our discovery. Soula and her family became our family and we make the pilgrimage every year.

As for the drive out of town? No problem at all.

If we needed the lights, sounds and parties of Mykonos, it’s there waiting.

For the first five years, we left the serenity of Psarou Bay a couple of times a week; visiting the town, enjoying cocktails in Little Venice, shopping for sparkly sandals and snazzy swimwear.

On several daring

occasions, we even stayed out until the very early hours, crowding into the tiny Piano Bar after midnight. Then Psarou Bay changed.

The modest taverna next door upgraded, became super swish and began attracting celebrities and billionaires.

The beach was taken over with the taverna’s sun-lounges; a hundred or more of them crammed so close together you were virtually in your neighbour’s lap.

Every year the changes became more significant.

Service on the beach is now so stylish we are

One of the lovely houses that you will see in exciting Mykonos.

taken aback. Girls in G-string bikinis stroll the hot sand taking drink and food orders, relaying them

back to the taverna kitchen on little technical gadgets.

Psarou Bay is a scene

that opens the eyes to the senior guest. You either love it or hate it. We’re not sure now where we fit in.

Travel

Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Central Coast

Seniors 13

Travel check list for seniors Some helpful travel tips that will assist you on your journey Ann Rickard

ANN Rickard is a seasoned and senior traveller who has made many mistakes in her annual travels. She gives us some tips that will help seniors enjoy smoother travelling.

■ The advantages of senior travel are many, mostly that we are free now to go any time, and out-of-season or shoulder-season means travel bargains. April through June is a lovely time to visit Europe or the US before the crowds have descended and when accommodation and tours are cheaper. The same goes for September and October when the masses have gone home.

■ Speak to your doctor before you go and ensure you have enough

medications to last through your holiday and at least a week after. Ask your doctor to write a list of medications and keep it with you when you travel.

If you do have to visit a pharmacy, the pharmacist will be able to match a similar brand.

■ Travel insurance increases with your age, especially once you are over 70. But travel insurance is essential.

Never leave home without it. Read the covenants on your policy carefully, especially the one about getting you home if you are taken ill and can’t fly on commercial airlines.

■ Always have a spare (or two) pair of glasses. And take your prescription with you in case of emergencies.

■ We all know to pack light, but how many of us

do it? Stick to the adage of packing, then taking half out, and if you are brave, take half out again.

I cannot emphasise this too strongly.

Many is the time I have had to post half my clothes home for lack of need – and postage is expensive.

■ Make sure your suitcase wheels are in good order, and if you must take a carry-on bag, ensure it will fit on top of your suitcase so it can be wheeled along with it.

■ Sensible walking shoes, one pair. Sensible multi-purpose flat shoes, one pair. That’s enough.

No more.

■ Train travel is becoming more popular every year no security airport hassles, departing and arriving in the heart of cities. But getting heavy suitcases on and off trains is difficult for the senior traveller. Again, pack light, lift easily. Ask

anyone near you for help.

Or pay a porter.

■ When travelling on trains, pack your lunch and snacks. Simple sandwiches and water or drinks will save money and avoid you getting up and walking along the aisle of a fast-moving train to the dining car.

■ Long haul flights are the curse of every Australian traveller, especially seniors. If you can afford it splurge on Business Class (you deserve it).

If not, ensure you have an aisle seat so getting up and moving about is easier.

■ Some of the big international airports have long distances to walk between gates.

If you have knee or back problems or are just a slow walker, make arrangements ahead and book a people-mover, or a wheelchair if necessary.

■ Stairs are the enemy of the senior traveller,

STAY COOL: Ann shares some travel tips that will help you enjoy your holidays without the headaches.

especially in Europe, where many of the smaller hotels do not have elevators. Always book a ground-floor room.

■ Ask for seniors’ discounts everywhere you go. That means everywhere, from hotels to museums and tourist icons. Even if there is no sign, still ask. You’ll be surprised how many places offer seniors’ discounts but don’t advertise it.

■ Toilet stops. Make the most of any restaurant or café you are in and use the loo even if the urge is not there. It will be 10 minutes after you have left, and public toilets in

countries other than our own are scarce (and scary).

■ Always keep an eye out for seats, benches and chairs in museums, parks, squares, streets.

Seniors need to sit more than other tourists.

■ Never take your good jewellery. If you must bling-up, make sure it is costume jewellery and your diamonds are sitting safely at home.

■ Ensure a family member or friend at home has your passport details. If lost or stolen, it is more efficient to correct if you know the number. www.annrickard.com

Telephone:

02 4325 8000 5 Day King Island

8 Day Great Ocean Road

Extended holidays for 2018 include:

Departing Sunday 4th February 2018

Departing Saturday 17 February 2018 Looking ahead to 2018, we start the year with one of our most popular holidays exploring the magnificent Shipwreck Coast. Our journey begins as we travel to Albury for overnight, then onto the Great Ocean Road spending overnight at Apollo Bay. Plenty of photo opportunities with views of the remaining twelve apostles, London Bridge, the Grotto and Loch Ard Gorge. 3 nights in Warrnambool to visit Flagstaff Hill, Port Fairy and see the Maremma Dogs that protect the little Penguins. Two night shows included are “Shipwrecked” and “Blood on the Southern Cross “in Ballarat.

Tour Price: $1650.00 per person twin share

5 Days Black Opal - Lightning Ridge Departing Thursday 26th April 10 Day Gippsland Gold & Lakes Departing Wednesday 2nd May Including Healsville, Walhalla Goldfields, Wilsons Promontory & Lakes Entrance 10 Day Adelaide Discovery Departing Saturday 26th May 12 Day Airlie Beach & The Whitsunday Departing Friday 8th June

Tour price from: $2950.00 per person twin share 4 Day Barrington Tops Departing Thursday 8th March 2018 Venture to Gloucester for a 3 nights stay Explore Barrington Tops National Park carved out of an ancient Volcano rising to over 1500 metres and down to world heritage listed tropical rainforest visit Thunderbolts Lookout, Blue Pols and the Dingo Gate. Many more surprises in this tour.

Tour Price: $795.00 per person twin share 6 Day Easter in Dorrigo Departing Thursday 29th March 2018 Enjoy a 5 night stay at the Lookout Mountain Retreat Situated on 16 acres and perched on the edge of the Dorrigo Plateau. All meals included along with daily sightseeing tours around the area.

Tour Price: $1395.00 per person twin share

9 Day Phillip Island & Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show

Call for our latest Day Tours & 2018 holiday book.

Departing Saturday 17th March 2018 Overnight in Cooma before travelling the Monaro Highway through Bombala into Victoria. Visit Orbost on the banks of the Snowy River before overnight in Bairnsdale. Spend 2 nights on Phillip Island, view the little penguins coming into shore and take a tour of French Island.

Visit William Ricketts Sanctuary before 3 nights in Melbourne to tour the MSG, cruise the Yarra and spend time at the Garden show. Enjoy a 5 course dinner on the Colonial Tramcar restaurant and take time at the famous Victorian Markets. Overnight in Yass on our return home.

Tour Price: $1999.00 per person twin share

Holiday inclusions: Home pick-up for Central Coast & Newcastle Passengers, 5 star coach travel with professional and informative coach captain / guide.

Quality motel accommodation, 2 course dinners, full cooked breakfast and all entry fees, attractions and cruises as per each itinerary Shop 5A Gosford Central Plaza | 153 Mann Street GOSFORD 2250 Telephone: 02 4325 8000 | Dublet D Pty Ltd t/a It’s Easy Tours ABN 93 165 847 316

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Flying via Melbourne to picturesque King Island 4 nights at the King Island Wilderness Retreat All Meals and daily tours including King Island Cheese. So much to see and do on this uniquely beautiful island.

th

14 Seniors Central Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

IN HOME CARE FEATURE

Flexible respite for carers now available with KinCare KINCARE has launched the country’s first ‘truly flexible’ respite model designed to work around carers’ needs and schedules.

Funded by the Commonwealth Home Support Program, the new services are being rolled out in the ACT, NSW and WA – with other states expected to follow.

KinCare’s CEO Jason Howie said the new model breaks down the barriers of accessing respite by removing fixed dates and times.

“Carers play an important role in our communities, yet the majority struggle to find time to care for themselves because respite options have become too rigid.

“If we’re serious about increasing access to respite then it must be flexible and it needs to

work within an environment that changes from day to day.”

Under the new suite of flexible respite arrangements a KinCare customer care manager would conduct a detailed assessment with each carer and care recipient to plan services that best meet their needs.

“Services can range from a few hours per week, to take a Zumba class, go for a swim, pamper themselves or simply visit friends, to live-in care that allows the normal carer to have a longer break.”

Carers NSW recently surveyed 1800 carers, finding that a third had never accessed respite.

Elena Katrakis, CEO of Carers NSW, said prioritising the development of diverse, flexible respite options was a must amid ongoing

changes to aged care, disability and carer service systems.

“Our survey confirmed that there simply isn’t enough flexible respite options and people are still unsure of how to access it.”

Katrakis said many carers found respite gave them much-needed time out from caring, allowing them to focus on their own health and well-being, spend time with family members and friends, or pursue education or employment.

“As our disability and aged care systems focus more and more on care recipients, it is getting harder for carers to access the respite they need,” Ms Katrakis said.

“Respite needs to be made more accessible to carers rather than having to ring around various departments and being

put on a waiting list that you never hear back from.”

Jason Howie said the new program would benefit both carers and KinCare customers.

“The new services model will provide the flexibility carers desperately need to take a break from their daily responsibilities – to take time out day or night – to enjoy the everyday life moments that are important to them. It is unfortunately common in this sector to find the carers struggle without any real support, and don’t get a much-needed break to care for themselves.”

Find out more about Flexible Respite services Call one of our friendly team members on 1300 702 319 or visit kincare.com.au. We’re here to help.

TO ALLOW for readers’ requests for the publication of more neighbourhood news, please keep notices short and to the point (100 word maximum). If you would like to submit a photo please ensure it is at least 180dpi or 500kb to 1mb in size and of faces, in a nice bright setting.

The deadline for the October issue is October 11. Email Nicky or Chris at communitynotes@seniors newspaper.com.au.

of Indoor Bowls at the Central Coast Leagues Club. We play 3 times a week (both social and competition games) in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and we would be delighted to welcome new members - if you are new to this activity, tuition will be given. For further information call 4334 3800.

shines the spotlight on the most momentous local performances in history. Many styles of entertainment have evolved over the years, has it been the shows or the audiences that have made the biggest impact on popular culture? The Exhibition runs until November 30 at Henry Kendall Cottage and Historical Museum, 25 Henry Kendall Street, West Gosford. Open: Wed / Sat / Sun 10am to 3pm.

Entry $5 adult, $4 concession, $3 children, $10 family - groups at other times by appointment. Enquiries (02) 4325 2270 or go to www.henrykendallcottage. org.au.

reception on Saturday September 30 from 4pm to 6pm with guest speaker Jocelyn Maughan, respected artist and owner of the Patonga Bakehouse Gallery. Mary Ellen Wallace, classical pianist will provide guests with beautiful music on the Hall’s piano.

This is a great opportunity to meet many of the 5 Lands Artists and see their work in one beautiful collection!

Amongst the exhibiting artists will be Margaret Fortey with her alluring paintings of the Australian bushland and Janet Hoyer Cobb’s recognisable style is always a treat. Enjoy Chris Clark’s encaustic landscapes, Cathryn McEwen’s "water" paintings, Willemina Villari’s stunning wire drawings and collages, and the artworks of Bronwyn Van De Graaff (ast year’s Gosford Art Prize), Camelle Denny, and Andy Collis. Also included will be Jon Ellis’ "en plein air" paintings and the colourful works Ann Parker, Sandy James, Mike Rubbo, Katerina Rubbo, Rowena Hordern,

TAKE TIME OUT: Carers play an important role in our communities.

Community WYONG APEX 40

THIS is a social group open to all former Apex members and their partners from any Apex Club and are now living on the Central Coast. The group was formed in 1982 to retain the great friendships made in Apex.

We meet on the last Thursday each month for a dinner, at a restaurant or member's home. If you would like to catch up with some old friends please contact Lea or Tom Dumpleton on 4393 2681 for more details.

INDOOR BOWLS

COME and enjoy a game

BRISBANE WATER EVENING VIEW CLUB

WORKING for the Smith Family holds its monthly dinner meeting in the Function Room at the Grange Hotel, Renwick Street, Wyoming on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 6.30pm for 7pm. New members and visitors are most welcome. For details call Valda on 4325 1688 or Helen 4367 5670.

BRISBANE WATER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

WE ARE celebrating the 2017 History Week theme "Pop" with the ‘Stepping Out on the Coast’ temporary exhibition that

ART @ WAGSTAFFE

ARTISTS of the 5 Lands Art Studios are exhibiting again this year at the Wagstaffe Hall over the October long weekend Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 9am to 4pm each day with gold coin entry towards the Wagstaffe to Killcare Community Assoc. The public are invited to join the artists for their

and Norma Dunston, who describes her work as "stitching the landscape".

PLUS... there will be a raffle of several artworks donated by some of the artists to be drawn on Sunday October 1 at 3pm.

Come a bit earlier to enjoy the music of the Big Band Obsession jazz ensemble from 2 to 4pm. All exhibited works will be for sale and a percentage of funds raised will go to the WTKCA and 5 Lands Art Studios.

REUNION

ST COLUMBAN’S College at Caboolture (formerly at Albion) are planning two reunions in late October for past students. A whole of school annual reunion is scheduled for Friday October 20 at the Tattersalls Club in Queen Street, Brisbane. All former students of both the Albion campus and the new Caboolture campus are welcome to attend. For students of the 1967 Alumni (that is students completing or would have completed year 12 in 1967 had they continued their study), a special separate 50th year

reunion is planned which will be celebrated at Brothers Football Club on Saturday October 28 commencing at 6pm. The organising committees are keen to contact all past students of the school as well as the Alumni 1967 and formally issue an invitation for them to attend either or both functions. Readers who may know former students who attended either campus, are asked to pass the information on. The event on Saturday October 28 will include a bus trip from Brisbane to the Caboolture campus where a guided tour will be conducted. Afterwards, the bus will return to Brothers Football Club in Crosby Road, Albion for drinks and dinner. Some former teachers from the Albion campus have been invited to attend.

To contact the planning committee, call Jennifer Butler on 5495 3111 or email jennifer.butler@bne. catholic.edu.au for details. For the Alumni 1967 event, call Michael McMahon on 3266 3939 or Dick Bennett 0402 717 247.

Central Coast

Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 15

IN HOME CARE FEATURE

My Aged Care top 5

Remain living independently in your own home IF YOU are currently receiving government funded home care or thinking about it, there were beneficial changes made in February 2017 that will help you.

You now have more choice and control over the type of care you want to receive from the government’s Home Care Packages program.

You can now choose the care company that is most suitable and going to give you the things that matter most to you.

Home Instead Senior Care is experienced in delivering quality care services to clients on the Central Coast and they have found these are the top five things people want, need and should be

asking their potential new provider about ■ 1. A personalised plan of care that is tailored to who you are as a person, your specific changing needs and current capabilities.

■ 2. The same trustworthy, compassionate and trained caregiver who turns up at exactly the time that you asked for the services.

This is particularly important for clients living with dementia.

You want to have the same caregiver so they can build a relationship of trust with them, someone who understands their specific needs and how best to engage them.

■ 3. Easy fast access to

services through a friendly, local office team which answers the phone knowing who you are and can change or update your care schedule as you wish including after-hours changes.

■ 4. A care manager who can help you understand My Aged Care, Centrelink, ACAT and all the other Central Coast services you could now be dealing with.

This will ensure you get the right care at the right time at the right cost.

■ 5. Low monthly management charges, with no exit fees.

This will enable you to receive more hours of care and easy to understand financial information.

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16 Seniors Central Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

IN HOME CARE FEATURE

Help is there if you need it MY AGED Care is an Australian Government website and phone line to help you find out what aged care services are available for you.

It’s never too early or too late to talk about aged care. Talking about getting some extra help often is the difference needed to help you continue to live an independent and active life.

Here are the five steps you can take to see if you qualify for assistance in your home.

Step 1. Find out what services are available There are a some steps you can take to find out if you are eligible to receive services such as help at home for personal care like help getting dressed, transport, modifications to your home like hand rails or ramps, nursing, physiotherapy and other care including meals and household jobs like cleaning or gardening.

You may also be able to gain assistance with equipment like walking

frames, invalid ramps and anti-slip products, and social activities such as grocery shopping and medical meetings.

Services can be long or short term. Sometimes you may need temporary help when you have had a setback and want to get your independence back.

Perhaps for recovery from an accident or illness, including after a hospital stay or when you or your carer needs a break. You can also apply to go into an aged care facility.

Step 2. Call us on 1800 200 422 A consultant will ask questions over the phone to help work out your needs and care arrangements – this takes at least 10 minutes.

You will need your Medicare card.

If you would like someone to call My Aged Care for you, you will need to give them your consent.

If you’re calling for someone else, they will need to give their consent.

Step 3. Have a face-to-face assessment My Aged Care may arrange for a trained assessor to come to your home. With your consent they will assess your care needs and eligibility for services and work with you to develop a support plan which addresses your needs, goals and preferences. Someone else can be with you during this visit.

Step 4. Find out about costs My Aged Care and service providers can give you information about costs. You will be told if you need a financial assessment.

Step 5. Choose services The service finders on the My Aged Care website can help you locate and compare some services in your area once you know which type of care you are eligible for. Your assessor and My Aged Care can also help you find a service provider in your local area that meets your needs.

■ During your home support assessment, the Regional Assessment Service assessor will work with you to develop a support plan that reflects your aged care needs, goals and preferences.

FINDING A SERVICE PROVIDER If your assessment shows you are eligible for services under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme, you can work with the assessor to decide which service provider(s) you want to receive services from. You can find a service provider in your local area that meets your needs with help from your assessor, by using the service finder on the My Aged Care website or by calling My Aged Care.

CHOOSING SERVICES You can decide on the services you want and choose providers to deliver them. When choosing a service provider, you should ask about the services available and discuss

Your rights.

Your voice.

Seniors Rights Service provides free and confidential legal advice, aged care advocacy and community education.

Our aged care advocates • Provide information about rights and responsibilities • Listen to your concerns • Help resolve problems or complaints with your aged care service providers • Refer to other agencies where necessary

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what’s important to you. If you want to visit service providers to decide if their services are right for you, ask your assessor to give you a referral code to give the service provider when you meet with them.

The Regional Assessment Service assessor can send referrals for service to the relevant provider(s) in your local area. If there are no services available, the assessor will talk to you about other options such as being placed on a wait list. People with the highest level of need will be offered services first.

HELP AT HOME COSTS The Australian Government subsidises home care services. If you are eligible, you are expected to contribute to the cost of your care and services if you can afford to. Costs are different for care at home provided under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme and the Home Care Packages Program. If you don’t know what type

of care at home you may be eligible for, find out more by clicking on the Getting Started section on the My Aged Care website.

If you are going to be, or have been, assessed for care at home, read on to find out more about costs.

COMMONWEALTH HOME SUPPORT PROGRAM You do not need a financial assessment to access Commonwealth Home Support services and your age pension will not be affected by your contributions to the costs of services.

You will need to discuss and agree to any fees with your service provider before you start. Service providers should have a fee policy with arrangements for those who cannot pay their fees due to hardship.

Assistance with care and housing is provided without the need for you to pay a fee for the services you receive. For details visit https://www. myagedcare.gov.au or phone 1800 200 422.

Central Coast

Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Coast Community Connections offers a range of services that assist you to live in your own home Our Ageing and Disability group deliver : • Home Care packages • National Disability Insurance Scheme ( NDIS ) • Commonwealth Home Support Program • Coordination of supports • Personal care • Domestic assistance • Shopping, social activities and transport • In-home respite Our Home Builders Services can assist you with • Maintenance around your home • Home modifications – rails and ramps and bathroom upgrades • Lawn and Gardens Services We have over 20 years’ experience delivering quality services across the Central Coast To access our services please call 4343 1888

Do you nEED hElp ArounD your homE?

home modification, maintenance, lawns & Gardens Coast Community Connections has over 20 years experience delivering home modification and maintenance services within the ageing and disability sector.

We offer consultation, Occupational Therapy, specialised expertise, flexibility and a focus on value for money outcomes.

Our consultation practice considers sustainability, support arrangements, informal supports in a Person Centred approach to promote independence.

Seniors 17

proGrAmS/ACTIVITIES include: • Gentle Exercise Classes • Tai Chi and Yoga • Zumba Gold • Roni L’s Senior Exercise and Dance • University of the Third Age (U3A) Classes • Community College Courses • Bridge Club • Coast Care Counselling • Scrabble Club • Bootscooters and Line Dancing • Carers Group • Free seniors internet kiosk and iPad classes • Multicultural Senior Social Group • School for Seniors For more information please call 4341 9333

Peninsula School for Seniors - Since 1989 Have fun and learn something new

upComInG EVEnTS AnD proGrAmS AT ThE CEnTrE Free Financial Counselling Available to people who are experiencing financial hardship. Financial counselling can be provided to the person who has the financial problem, their families, friends or work mates or anyone whose life is affected by financial stress. Call Robyn directly to make an appointment or see the Ladies in the Centre Front Office.

When: Tuesdays & Wednesdays.

Contact: Ph: 4331 9630

The Knitters Guild now meet at the Centre.

Any knitter or crocheter is very welcome to attend. Cost of $4 per meeting, which includes tea/coffee/cake. To join is $15 plus a $10 joining fee, which provides membership until 31st December 2017. After that it is $30 a year. Members may attend any group they wish at any time and there are loads of other activities going on around the State - like a Knitting retreat weekend, a Guild Knitting Cruise and a Fibre Festival each year. Locally, there are workshops and bus and train trips to venues like yarn shops. People can just come and knit, crochet and chat.

The next meeting is Saturday 21st October from 1pm-4pm.

Tax Help: Get FREE help with your tax return from our Tax Help Volunteer, available if you earn around $60,000 or less. Contact the Centre to make an appointment. On 4341 9333

mEnTAl hEAlTh AWArEnESS monTh oCToBEr – ShArE ThE JournEy ArAFmI Carers Group Support Group for Carers of People with a Mental Illness When: 9 :30am – 11:30am Last Wednesday of each month.

Contact: 0413 468 981 COST: Free

Peninsula School for Seniors - Since 1989 Have fun and learn something new

Activities include: Painting and Arts and Crafts, Australiana History Discussion Groups, Bushwalking, Outings and Theatre groups General Enquiries: 4341 9333 School Coordinator: Di Johnston e: communitycentre@coastcommunityconnections.com.au w: www.coastcommunityconnections.com.au 6678532aa

18 Seniors Central Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

Home Care giving you a headache?

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Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Central Coast

Seniors 19

Struggling to apply for Government subsidised Home Care?

Having problems navigating the My Aged Care website?

Confused by words like ACAT Assessment and CHSP? If you, like many, are finding navigating your way around Home Care gives you a headache, we can help and setting you up is free.

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20 Seniors Central Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

Wellbeing

Sleep apnoea is on the rise Advertorial

SLEEP apnoea is more prevalent today than it has ever been.

Sleep apnoea is characterised by repeated cessation of breathing during sleep and is often noticed by the partner. It is associated with snoring, gasping and grunting noises during sleep.

The daytime symptoms vary but generally it causes a disruption in your sleep and results in excessive daytime sleepiness.

The other symptoms are morning headaches, increased blood pressure, lack of concentration and motivation, and not feeling refreshed on waking.

Twenty years ago the expected prevalence was 5–10% of the general population, but with the increase in obesity, we have seen the prevalence

reported up to 50% of the general population.

Originally seen as a condition that affects men, it is now associated as much in women, particularly post-menopause.

Benchmark Sleep Services is a leader in both diagnosis of sleep apnea and the treatment of the condition.

A simple home test can be performed where a patient wears a device to bed at night and it records your breathing and oxygenation, as well as your brainwave activity.

The data is then analysed by a sleep specialist and a report sent to your GP for a recommendation on treatment.

If you suspect you may have sleep apnoea, you should discuss it with your GP and get a referral to Benchmark Sleep

Services. There are copies of the referral form on the website for the GP or yourself.

A CPAP machine is the gold standard for the treatment of sleep apnoea and many people find them life-changing.

Benchmark Sleep Services provides options with all the leading brands, from Resmed and Fisher & Paykel Healthcare to Philips Respironics.

Benchmark Sleep Services also has all the latest style of masks, which is important to get a good night’s sleep.

CPAP machines are now whisper quiet and it is a myth they are noisy.

Using a CPAP machine is life-changing and requires a supplier that provides support throughout the process.

That support includes product knowledge, data

interpretation and skill in fitting the right mask for the right person.

Ultimately, Benchmark Sleep Services is aiming to get you a good night’s sleep and does this by treating your sleep apnoea and giving you support through the process. A great mask is critical for CPAP therapy success.

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Central Coast

Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 21

MEN’S HEALTH FEATURE

What cancers affect men?

OF THE 70,000 Australian men diagnosed each year with cancer, the most common cancers are skin, prostate, bowel and lung.

Rather than ignore the fact that cancer may affect you, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk or find it early.

TO START ■ Stop smoking.

■ Keep a healthy weight.

■ Protect yourself from the sun.

■ Be active every day.

■ Slow down on the alcohol.

■ Eat moderate amounts of lean red meat and limit or avoid processed meats.

■ Enjoy eating plenty of fruit and vegetables.

■ Eat a variety of high-fibre foods.

■ Go low with salt and fat.

It’s a good health strategy to visit your GP once a year for a check-up and go any other time you notice a change to your body that isn’t normal.

SKIN ■ There are three main types – basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell

carcinoma and melanoma.

■ Keep an eye out for new or changing skin spots.

■ Use this check list to go top to bottom – check your head, scalp, neck, ears, sides, front of torso, back, arms, hands, fingers and fingernails, and feet.

■ Ask a family member or friend to help check the back of your legs and upper body.

■ Visit your GP if a spot has changed colour, size or shape, has an irregular border or becomes itchy or bleeds.

It’s never too late to slip on clothing, slop on SPF30+ or higher, slap on a broad-brimmed hat, seek shade when you can and slide on the sunnies.

PROSTATE ■ This is the most commonly diagnosed cancer.

■ The exact cause of this cancer is unknown.

■ Risk increases with age for men 60 and over and for those with family history.

■ Early prostate cancer

HEALTH CHECK: There are actions men can take to reduce the chances of being diagnosed with cancer.

PHOTO: ALEXRATHS

doesn’t usually cause symptoms.

■ Later-stage urinating symptoms can be feeling an urgent need to go, difficulty starting, a slow or intermittent stream, leaking or dribbling after urination, pain when urinating, pain in the lower back or pelvis, blood in the urine.

■ Doctors can conduct a prostate specific antigen blood test and may also do a rectal examination.

TESTICULAR ■ It’s more common for

men aged 18–39 and in men born with an undescended or partially descended testicle or testicles.

■ Most cases are found by accident.

■ It’s easiest to check your testicles after a shower or bath, when they’re warm and relaxed.

■ Look for a hard lump on the front or side, a change in size or shape, a difference in size between testicles, a heavy or dragging feeling in the scrotum, pain or

discomfort in the testicle, scrotum or lower abdomen.

BOWEL ■ Bowel cancer risks increase with age, with men over 50 the most common to be diagnosed.

■ Risk factors are a history of bowel polyps, ulcerative colitis or Chron’s disease and a family history of the disease.

■ It can be treated if detected early.

■ Most often there are no early symptoms.

■ If your bowel habits change, see your GP. Take the opportunity to get your bowel checked by completing the free National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

LUNG ■ Smoking causes 90% of lung cancers in men.

■ Other risk factors are being over 60, a family history of lung cancer, having a history of lung disease and exposure to substances such as asbestos, coal gas, diesel fumes and radiation.

■ This cancer can be hard to diagnose early so if you have any of the following symptoms, you should see your GP – a persistent cough that lasts longer than three weeks, a change in a cough or coughing up blood.

■ Need help with quitting smoking? Phone the Quitline on 13 78 48 or go to www.icanquit.com.au.

Details on any of the cancers listed above at www.cancercouncil. com.au.

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22 Seniors Central Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

Living

CWA helps lead the way ❝ CENTRAL Coast Council is aiming for the number one title when it comes to Australia’s biggest re-use event, the 2017 Garage Sale Trail, on the weekend of October 21–22.

And where would any event be without a bit of input from the Country Women’s Association?

CWA of NSW Tuggerah Lakes branch was one of the first groups to register for this year’s sale, which involves more than 150 councils Australia-wide.

“We have our own rooms, which not many of the branches still do, and consequently there’s been a bit of hoarding going on,

thinking ‘maybe we’ll be able to do something with that next year’ – so we’ve decided it’s time to have a clear out,” president Margaret Heathcote said.

“We have a lot of things they call retro today, which we just call old,” she laughed.

Among the items up for grabs is a stack of heavy vintage yellow crockery by Johnson of Australia, including dinner and side plates, cups and saucers.

The crockery probably dates from the 1950s and is trending again online, so it will likely go quickly.

There’s also retro furniture including chairs,

Members are also being encouraged to donate items for sale – ‘so long as if it doesn’t sell, they take it home again. We’re meant to be clearing out, not collecting!’ card and trestle tables, and a collection of craft items from lace to buttons and beyond.

Members are also being encouraged to donate items for sale – “so long as if it doesn’t sell, they take it home again. We’re meant to be clearing out, not collecting,” Margaret said. And while the CWA is definitely about more than

tea and scones, no one can deny the members do them well, and Margaret said all the things you normally find at a CWA street stall would also be on sale, including craft, cakes and scones.

All the money raised will go to the CWA’s charity work, including disaster relief, hospital support and helping families in need.

This is the first time the Garage Sale Trail will run across the entire weekend, but the CWA will be opening its doors at 1 Pacific St, Long Jetty, only on the Saturday.

“Last year the Coast recorded 201 individual sales and 116 group sales, with approximately 8000 coastal shoppers out and about supporting the event – all across just one Saturday,” council administrator Ian Reynolds said.

“Council is encouraging residents, businesses and community groups to get together to sell off their unwanted goods and be part of the solution to

creating a more sustainable Central Coast,” Mr Reynolds said.

“We are aiming to go even bigger this year and take the number one spot as Australia’s most sustainable region, so we need as many registered sales as possible.”

For more information and to register your garage sale, visit garagesaletrail.com.au.

GARAGE SALE TRAIL WEEKEND ❚ Date: Held from October 21–22. ❚ Info: garagesale trail.com.au.

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PHOTO: AMY BROWN

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Central Coast

Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 23

Queensland

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24 Seniors Central Coast

Living

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

Family Fun at Peninsula Village free open day

THE award-winning Peninsula Village at Umina Beach will be hosting a free Family Open Day on Saturday, October 7, as an opportunity to invite community members of all ages to experience the village and care facilities as well as enjoy a range of free family entertainment that will be on offer.

The Family Open Day will include live entertainment, farmyard animal fun with Kidz Zoo, a photo booth and jumping castle for the kids, as well as a free barbecue lunch and performances by Los Bonkers and Katie Conty.

As a community not-for-profit organisation, Peninsula Villages has been serving the needs of Central Coast locals for more than 40 years.

Chief executive officer Shane Neaves said the Family Open Day was an opportunity to open the doors of Peninsula Village and give back to the community.

❝

For more than 40 years, we’ve been caring for our older aged locals.”

“For more than 40 years, we’ve been caring for our older aged locals and providing a welcoming community for residents to feel safe and included,” Mr Neaves said.

“As a community for-purpose organisation, we are also focused on serving the needs of the wider Peninsula and Central Coast community and are proud to enjoy strong relationships with a host of local schools, social clubs, sporting clubs and groups.”

“Our Free Family Open Day is an opportunity to invite not just the families of our residents, but families within our local area to pay a visit to Peninsula Village and enjoy a day of fun.

“Families will also have

an opportunity to find out more about Peninsula Villages and our care services as well as enjoy some intergenerational activities and family entertainment.”

Attendees on the day will also be able to tour the Peninsula Village facilities, interact with residents and talk to the friendly staff and volunteers.

“Peninsula Villages also enjoys promoting activities that engage all generations from the little ones to our older aged residents, and this year’s event will see free dance therapy and djembe drumming demonstrations so everyone can enjoy some shared fun on the day,” Mr Neaves said.

Community members are invited to come along to the Peninsula Village Family Open Day on Saturday, October 7, from 10.30am to 3.30pm.

Peninsula Village is located at 91 Pozieres Ave, Umina Beach.

THEY’VE GOT IT ALL: Animals, drums, family entertainment and free food at the Peninsula Village Open Day. Why not take the grandkids along?

PHOTOS: ANDREW MCCRAE

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Central Coast

Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 25

Money

Super way to shrink Andrew Heaven, WealthPartners

ANDREW Heaven, an AMP financial planner at WealthPartners Financial Solutions, talks about putting downsizing proceeds into superannuation.

Question: My wife and I are looking to downsize the family home and move into a smaller property.

We believe we can put some of the proceeds of the property sale into super. However, we are in our 70s and haven’t worked for years. What is the process of investing these funds into super?

Answer: As part of the 2017-18 Budget, the government announced the superannuation downsizer contribution for those looking to sell a family home in retirement and invest the proceeds into

super.

From July 1, 2018, individuals aged 65 and over will be able to make personal, on-concessional contributions into their super of up to $300,000 from the sale of their home. For those who qualify for the superannuation downsizer contribution, the existing super contribution rules for people aged 65 and older, the work test for those aged 65-74 and no contributions for those aged 75 and over, will not apply.

Additionally restrictions on non-concessional contributions for people with balances above $1.6m will not apply under this new initiative.

Draft legislation was released on July 21 which provides additional details of the requirements to be eligible to make a superannuation downsizer contribution.

Both members of a couple will be able to take advantage of the superannuation downsizer contribution cap. Meaning that a couple could contribute up to $600,000 ($300,000 each) to super.

There is no obligation for you both to have been on title, just that one of you was on title.

The consultation draft legislation provides for the sale of any type of property, however caravans, houseboats or mobile homes are specifically excluded.

While there is a cap of $300,000 per person, the limit of the contribution is the value of the property sale.

So if you sold the family home for $450,000, the limit would be $450,000 for the couple, provided no more than $300,000 was contributed per person.

If an individual was to sell a property for $160,000, then $160,000 would be the limit. Individuals must have owned their property for a minimum of 10 years however they are not obliged to have lived in the property for the full 10 years. There is no obligation to make a subsequent property purchase.

You can move into retirement communities, aged care, smaller properties, homes not close to schools or away from major employments centres or into your adult children’s homes.

Superannuation downsizer contributions would be required to be made to a super fund within 90 days of settlement of the property.

Extensions to this deadline may be sought from the Australian

Taxation Office.

You may make multiple contributions within the 90 days provided that in aggregate the contributions are within the caps and meet all other criteria.

However, you are limited to one superannuation downsizer contribution from the sale of a property, even if you sold a subsequent qualifying property. In order to take advantage of the superannuation downsizer contribution, the contract of sale must be entered into on or after July 1, 2018.

Therefore exchanging contracts on the property prior to July 1, 2018 would void any entitlement to utilise the superannuation downsizer contribution, so be careful.

The superannuation downsizer contribution is a non-concessional contribution therefore

FINANICAL PLANNER: Andrew Heaven.

there are no tax deductions for making the contribution.

The consultation period for the draft legislation closed on Friday, August 4. Please note the draft legislation is not yet law and may be subject to change.

As to whether using the superannuation downsizer contribution is of benefit to you will largely depend upon you personal circumstances.

Q&A with The Coach story first appeared on the WealthPartners www.wealthpartners.net. au.

They can be followed on Facebook and Twitter. Any general advice in this story doesn’t take account of your personal objectives, financial situation and needs.

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

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26 Seniors Central Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

Let’s save Reap the benefits HOME COOKING CHRISTINE PERKIN

GROW: Rosella's make one of the most delicious jams.

tomato relish, pickled cucumbers, rosella’s for the most wonderful jam and cordial, eggplants, tomato and capsicum you can cook and preserve in olive oil.

Why not make sun-dried tomatoes in your oven or make your own beetroot slices for those summer barbecues or a delicious

Beetroot Relish. You can stock up your pantry and save money on your weekly shop. Then enjoy the satisfying fruits of your labour.

WHAT TO PLANT

HERBS: plant basil, chives, coriander, fennel, lemongrass, mint, parsley, and tarragon .

FRUIT & VEGETABLES: plant artichoke, beans, capsicum, celery, Chinese cabbage, cucumber, eggplant, kohlrabi, leek, lettuce, melons, okra, onion, potato (tubers), rosella, silver beet, spring onion, squash, sweet corn, sweet potato and tomato. For recipes go to www.seniorsnews.com.au

BE THRIFTY AND THRIVE NICKY NORMAN INSECTS can be extremely annoying and affect your health, especially if you have an allergy. Major itching is just one side effect from a mozzie bite but in severe cases, they can spread disease and cause respiratory failure.

The chemical compound DEET or diethyltoluamide is the most common active ingredient found in insect repellents, so finding a natural alternative is a better option.

There are a variety of essential oils that can repel bugs, so by using a combination of oils, you can produce a plant-based natural insect repellent.

Spring is here and summer is around the corner, so create your own special blend and smell a little sweeter than the standard Aerogard.

Bug-Repelling essential oils:

Citronella, lemon eucalyptus, lemongrass, tea tree, peppermint, patchouli, cedarwood, lavender, cypress, rose geranium, rosemary, bergamot and lemon. ✰Lemon eucalyptus oil The most recommended and studied of the natural repellents goes by the trade name Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), which is extracted from lemon eucalyptus trees.

A preferred DEET alternative, it can be mixed with cedarwood, lavender and rosemary essential oils. This combination is a good start to keep the pesky insects away. ✰Citronella oil Aside from various benefits like being an antibacterial and antiseptic, the insect repellent properties work on mosquitoes that carry yellow fever, lice, and fleas.

Apply minimal amounts of pure citronella oil to your forearms for up to two hours of protection.

More information via: www.diynatural.com.

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SEPTEMBER is a peak planting month and if you want to capitalise on the relatively mild conditions of spring and early summer, you can produce a wide variety of vegetable crops that can be used in the kitchen.

Grow the veggies to make your own antipasto that will give barbecues, dinner parties, picnics, and even sandwiches that special touch. You can also give gifts of your cooking.Save a little and give a gift that your friends and family will love.

It’s all about thinking ahead and planting fruit and veggies you will use in the coming months.

Plant the ingredients for

Repel bugs with an alternative

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Puzzles

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Across 7 Which king of the Huns devastated much of the Roman Empire before he was defeated? (6) 8 Which greyish Eurasian wild horse was hunted to extinction by 1919? (6) 10 What is hollandaise sauce thinned with? (7) 11 What was Walt Disney’s middle name? (5) 12 What secretive drab grey and brown bird lives near marshes? (4) 13 What rice-paper screen in a sliding wooden frame is used in Japanese houses? (5) 17 What is the loincloth worn by male Hindus? (5) 18 What is a baby deer? (4) 22 What flower features in the title of an Alexandre Dumas novel? (5) 23 Which is the only member of the cat family that cannot completely retract its claws? (7) 24 What figure indicates the antiknock rating of petrol? (6) 25 Where did the League of Nations establish its headquarters? (6)

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Down 1 Which university is the US’s oldest? (7) 2 What sheet with cut-out designs or letters is used to reproduce these? (7) 3 What type of shoes usually have wooden soles?

(5) 4 Drawings and carvings of what small dog have been found in ancient tombs in Egypt? (7) 5 Which country occupies most of the Iberian Peninsula? (5) 6 What is an acute but non- specific sense of anxiety? (5) 9 What word originates from Greek for “master builder”? (9) 14/15 Which film introduced the bumbling Inspector Clouseau? (3,4,7) 16 Which serious disease is also called “wool sorters’ disease”? (7) 19 What leather device sharpened old razors? (5) 20 What was measured in ells? (5) 21 Who was brother of Flopsy, Mopsy and Cottontail? (5)

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SUDOKU

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

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

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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.

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Across: 1. Kick 3. Lenience 9. Neutral 10. Ramps 11. Legitimising 14.

Nip 16. Idols 17. Leo 18. Bloody-minded 21. Claps 22. Deliver 23. One by one 24. Stud.

Down: 1. Kindling 2. Clung 4. Eel 5. Irresistible 6. Nominal 7. Else 8.

Gratuitously 12. Moody 13. Wondered 15. Pulsate 19. Duvet 20. Echo 22. Den.

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 21 Very Good 29 Excellent 37

QUICK CROSSWORD

ALPHAGRAMS: LIFTS, MARRED, NEUTRON, OVERSTEP, PATHOGENS.

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Down 1. Firewood (8) 2. Held on tightly (5) 4. Stream dweller (3) 5. Overwhelmingly tempting (12) 6. A token amount (7) 7. Otherwise (4) 8. Done without good reason (12) 12. Temperamental (5) 13. Felt curious (8) 15. Throb (7) 19. Bed covering (5) 20. Repeat (4) 22. Animal’s lair (3)

WORD GO ROUND

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Across 1. Boot (4) 3. Mercifulness (8) 9. Unbiased (7) 10. Sloping surfaces (5) 11. Making legal (12) 14. Small drink of spirits (3) 16. Greatly admired individuals (5) 17. Star sign (3) 18. Stubborn and unhelpful (6-6) 21. Applauds (5) 22. Hand over (7) 23. Singly (3,2,3) 24. Horse breeding farm (4)

Win A Double Pass to BCC and Event Cinemas’ special seniors screening of Battle of the Sexes Seniors can enjoy a complimentary morning tea when they catch a special screening of Battle of the Sexes on Wednesday 11th of October at BCC and Event Cinemas.

Battle of the Sexes tells the true story of the legendary tennis 1973 tennis match between Billie Jean King (Emma Stone) and Bobby Riggs (Steve Carrell), as they go head-to-head on the tennis court.

And thanks to BCC and Event Cinemas, Seniors is giving you the chance to win a double pass!

To be in the running, simply email communitynotes@seniorsnewspaper.com.au. Make sure you tell us your name (first and last), contact number, email, postal address and Seniors Newspapers region, then answer this question What movie are you most excited to see in the next year? Or visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitions to enter online. Good luck!

Visit www.seniorsnews.com.au for more information.

Visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitionterms for full competition terms and conditions. Promoter is ARM Specialist Media Pty Ltd of 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore Qld 4558.

Promotional period 18/09/17 – 2/10/17. Competition drawn 5pm 2/10/17 at Cnr Mayne Rd and Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006. Winners announced in Seniors October Editions 2017. Total prize value $54.00 (including GST). Entry is open to all permanent residents of Queensland, residing in the Northern NSW, Coffs and Clarence and Central Coast NSW Seniors distribution areas. Permit number: NSW/LTPS/17/17638.

Wellbeing + Travel + living + Money

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WORD GO ROUND

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Note: more than one solution may be possible.

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Across: 7 Attila, 8 Tarpan, 10 Vinegar, 11 Elias, 12 Rail, 13 Shoji, 17 Dhoti, 18 Fawn, 22 Tulip, 23 Cheetah, 24 Octane, 25 Geneva.

Down: 1 Harvard, 2 Stencil, 3 Clogs, 4 Basenji, 5 Spain, 6 Angst, 9 Architect, 14/15 The Pink Panther, 16 Anthrax, 19 Strop, 20 Cloth, 21 Peter.

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acetyl aptly city clay cyst easily easy espy eyas lacy laity lays paisley palsy pasty patsy pays peaty piety pity play plays salty scaly silty slatey slaty slay spacey spacy spay SPECIALTY spicy splay stay stye style styli tipsy typal type types typical yaps yeast yelp yelps yeti

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Central Coast