Central Coast, August-September 2018

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WELLBEING A CENTRAL PLACE OF HEALTH & HAPPINESS PAGE 23

Meet Lt Col Harry Smith The Vietnam war hero who found his peace in blue water sailing INSIDE FEATURE STORY

FIVE FAB FISHING ADVENTURES PAGE 29

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WELCOME

AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS

Changes for the better Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor

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Don’t miss our Wellbeing section INDEX Lt Col Harry Smith Penny Cook Ms World Robyn Canner Talk n Thoughts Community Group Guide Wellbeing Living Wanderlust What’s On Money Classifieds Puzzles

General Manager Geoff Crockett – 0413 988 333 geoff.crockett@news.com.au Editor Gail Forrer – 07 5435 3203 gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Executive Sue Germany 0408 286 539 sue.germany@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Online Get your news online at www.seniorsnews.com.au Advertising, editorial and distribution enquiries Phone: 1300 880 265 Email: advertising@seniorsnewspaper.com.au or editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Location: 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore 4558 Website: www.seniorsnews.com.au Subscriptions Only $39.90 for one year (12 editions) including GST and postage anywhere in Australia. Please call our circulations services on 1300 361 604 and quote “Brisbane Seniors Newspaper”.

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THIS month commemorates, through the memories of Lieutenant Colonel Harry Smith, the anniversary of the Long Tan battle. To honour the people involved means to acknowledge the terrible situations that have provoked and enabled warfare.

Although continued warfare has proved the message underpinning American philosopher George Santayana’s words, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it,” untrue, I believe the intent – that understanding can lead to alternative actions – still holds some truth. Lt Col Harry Smith’s decision to err from past decisions that left the heroic deeds of good soldiers unrecognised has meant appropriate validation for these men. I trust this story honours all those who served their country both now and then.

On another note, here’s to Australia’s 60-year-old Ms World, Robyn Canner. Not so long ago this sort of award, generally considered a beauty pageant, seemed more about beauty of the body than spirit.

Robyn’s award is a clear indication of a changing world. It points to a holistic

judging criteria that includes body, mind and spirit and that’s good news for any age group. Sharing really is caring and this month we publish two articles urging you to volunteer your services in various areas. Both stories are keen to highlight that volunteering is a two way street, not only do you bring light into the life of a person, but you too can experience the joy of givin., Part of my job is armchair travelling and the topics in this edition have really excited me. In my mind I have been to Madagascar. I have seen the extraordinary landscapes the brilliant and abundance mix of flora, fauna and animals. I hope your exploration of our Wanderlust pages also leads to, ‘living the dream’.

As always, we invite to check out our stories and videos on our website www.seniorsnews.com.au

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SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018

NEWS

3

Cyclonic rise in cricket Cricketers never get old, until they stop playing cricket Alison Houston VETERANS is “the growth area of cricket”, according to Central Coast Cyclones Cricket Club president Bob Newman.

And he’s not just talking about on the Coast, but across the country and the world, with a growing calendar of events across all three age-groups – over 50s, over 60s and over 70s.

While Bob said there is still a competitive edge to the cricket, especially if you get to state, national and now world competitions, it’s mixed in with a lot of camaraderie and good feeling.

“There’s a lot of blokes come along to the local matches and say ‘this is the way we should have been playing cricket all our lives’,” he said.

“And the umpires love us, because everyone still enjoys a win, but it’s not at all costs... and if we sledge, we’re only sledging our own blokes!”

Having joined the club at 59, and now turning 68, Bob fondly refers to the over-50s as “the babies”, and reckons there are quite a few blokes who are 48 and 49 and “just itching” to qualify.

And there’s every incentive, with the first over-50s World Cup featuring eight nations to be held in Sydney from November 20-December 5 this year.

As a warm-up, an invitational Australian side will be playing Wales at Baker Park, Wyong on November 19.

COMPETITIVE EDGE: Cyclone Doug Trigg in action for NSW Country Over-60s against England at Baker Park, Wyong in 2016. An invitational over-50s Australian side will play Wales there on November 19.

Photos: Contributed It follows on from the success of the Coast’s first international, an over-60s match at the grounds 18 months ago against England.

This year the Cyclones have two over-60s sides heading to Maitland for the state championships, before the nationals in Penrith, featuring 32 teams from Australia and New Zealand.

Meanwhile the over-70s head to the Sunshine Coast for their national titles in September boasting five Cyclones in the NSW team – Len Hardy and Ken Campbell in Division 1, Howard Reay and Garry Castles in Division 2 and Bob Tranter as fill-in.

Bob paid tribute to club patron Bob Hook, now 82,

Need a

The Cyclones over-60s at Bradman Oval, Bowral for an interclub game. who only gave up playing at 80, and had his last game at Bradman Oval in Bowral where, ironically, just like The Don, Bob Hook scored a duck in his last innings.

Bob stressed the

veterans comp is not all about representative honours, with some players having continued in the sport over the years, and others returning after having given it up for families or

work commitments and “just giving it a go to see if they’ve still got some skills left”.

“We try to cater for all levels of ability and it’s very collegial,” he said, adding that some referred

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to the comp as “the Men’s Shed in Whites”.

“Some guys still get a bit of white line fever, but we’ve got fellows here who know they’re not players of immense ability, but they enjoy running round the field, doing their best and the camaraderie.”

If you’re not sure if it’s for you, he said, go along to weekly training and see, with the season not too far away, and fees, including cap and playing shirt just $40 annually.

“There’s a saying that cricketers never get old, you get old because you stop playing cricket,” Bob said.

For more information, phone Bob on 0418 624 559.

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COVER STORY

AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS

Harry Smith: new memorial stark reminder of Long Tan Tracey Johnstone

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

AUGUST 18 is a date in Lieutenant Colonel Harry Smith’s life that he can’t turn his back on, but neither will he celebrate it.

“It was my company of 105 soldiers that got brassed-up by over 2000 North Vietnamese and regular army, and we defeated them with massive artillery support and the gallantry of my own soldiers,” Harry, now 85, said. “Sadly, I lost 17 who were killed and 24 wounded that day. It’s always been the sad part of my life.”

Harry remembers the 1966 battle was fought in monsoonal conditions which helped mask the location of the Australian soldiers.

“The enemy used to run telephone wires along the ground so that they could give orders as they didn’t have many radios,” he said.

“The artillery shrapnel cut their telephone lines so they had to send orders by runners. Consequently, they weren’t as organised as they could have been. The rain, the artillery smoke and

everything else limited their ability to locate us.

“But, when they did locate us, we were in a well-defended position. I had already lost about 13 or 14 soldiers by the time the major assault came in and then we lost another four. We were able to repel them.

“They took so many casualties and withdrew and went home. Basically, we can say, they were defeated.”

That story rolls off the former Company

Commander’s lips with care and solemnity that defines why Harry sought peace for the last 35 years through spending every conceivable minute bluewater sailing.

When he returned from Vietnam, Harry joined the Commandos in Sydney and headed overseas to parachute jump with British, Canadian and American air forces. He returned to CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

‘‘

Certainly, on the 18th of August I remember the sadness associated with those we lost, who were killed in that battle in order that the rest of us might live.”

Lt Col Harry Smith.

Photo: Tracey Johnstone

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018 FROM PAGE 4 Australia to take over the parachute school at the Williamstown air force base as the first army commanding officer.

“We trained about 600 officers a year including girls,” Harry said. “I was responsible for bringing the girls in,” he added with pride in his voice.

His last jump forced him to retire from the army.

After a few years working in the corporate world for a liferaft manufacturer, Harry headed to the ocean. He has chalked up a personal log of close to 150,000 miles. In later years his third wife Felicia joined Harry to cruise and race.

Danger close Harry’s story of the Long Tan Battle is being retold in an Australian movie Danger Close.

Production is almost completed and it is due for release around Anzac Day next year.

The movie script is a bit of a sore subject for Harry.

It was supposed to be as true as possible to the battle story, subject to some dramatisation. He said the original script wasn’t accepted by a group of military experts, including himself. And though some amendments were apparently made to that

COVER STORY

script, he said he had not seen them.

However, he’s willing to keep an open mind on how the movie will turn out. “From what I have heard from my guys who have been to some of the movie sites, they reckon it will turn out really well,” Harry added.

Date remembered August 18 ultimately became the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia endorsed national Vietnam Veterans Day. Every year since the war, Harry has attended a Long Tan Day commemorative function.

This year he will be at the Australian War Memorial for a significant moment in his life and of those who fought at Long Tan. The permanent home of the Long Tan Cross will be unveiled.

The cross was originally erected on the battlefield, but then removed by the North Vietnamese at the end of the war. “It was put in a museum near Bien Hoa,” Harry said.

In 2016, after the 50th anniversary, the cross was given to the Australian War Memorial, but not before it had been through a chequered past.

“It was knocked down by the enemy after the war and a farmer took it home and put it over the grave of his father,” Harry said.

Major Harry Smith of Hobart is congratulated by Australia's Ambassador to South Vietnam, Mr Lewis Border, after being presented with the Military Cross for outstanding gallantry during the Battle of Long Tan. “He took the brass plate which has a little sign on it, ‘in memory of the soldiers lost at Long Tan’, and used that as a plate to heat up his fish and chips.

“It was then taken off him by the local council and put in a shed. One of my former soldiers was over there and found it in the shed, and he did a deal whereby they were going to send it back to Australia in exchange for medical supplies. But that didn’t come to pass because the North Vietnamese, who had taken over Saigon, now Ho Chi Minh City, said no.

“They took it and put it in a museum up at Dong Nai, north of Saigon, which is where it stayed until we got it on loan back here at the War

Memorial in 2012, for 12 months. Because of some noises made by the ambassadors, and by myself and others, the North Vietnamese decided it wasn’t much use to them sitting in a museum, so they gave it back to us.”

Proudly displayed in his home office is a simple photo frame containing shrapnel relics found on the Long Tan battlefield and underneath a photo of the Long Tan Cross when it was still in North Vietnam. Beside it is another presentation he received representing his company’s theme song, These Boots Are Made For Walking and it’s badge, designed by one its members, with a red triangle which is the Greek symbol for Delta and in

HISTORY: Major (later Lt Col) Harry Smith, 6 Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment wearing a Tokarev pistol in a holster. He recovered the pistol from the body of a North Vietnamese Army soldier the day after the battleof Long Tan. It is now in the Memorial's collection.

Photos:

Australian War Memorial

the middle, a pair of boots.

Harry displays little else of his Vietnam War years, using the remaining space in his study for photos of his many boats.

Battle weary Harry finished his last land battle in 2016.

“After the battle, a number of us were given awards,” Harry said.

“The awards I recommended for my soldiers who were up eye-balling the enemy, and they were the ones most gallant and courageous,

5

those recommendations were not approved in 1966.

“There was nothing I could do for 30 years because there is a secrecy period in the defence forces.”

In 1996 Harry was able to access the original awards recommendation documents and then he went back to “battle”.

“And I really did have a battle because people said, ‘you can’t go back in time with awards, you finish going back to the Boer War and so on. It’s just not possible. You just have to accept what was done’. I said no, I can’t accept that.

“These young soldiers, most of them 20-year-old servicemen, fought outstandingly in the battle and it is normal to decorate people for outstanding gallantry and they should get their award.”

Finally, he was able to take his case to the Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal.

He was knocked down once, but stood up again, and won.

In 2016 the Governor General presented the awards to the soldiers of D Company in the presence of their greatest supporter.

“That was the biggest battle I had since Vietnam,” Harry said.

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AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS

Penny Cook is back on screen Aussie favourite stars in The Merger comedy

Tracey Johnstone

THE MERGER: The multi-talented actress, MC and Australia Day ambassador Penny Cook.

ACTRESS Penny Cook steps back out on the big screen this month joining John Howard in a supporting role in the Australian comedy movie The Merger.

The scene is an AFL ground in a town called Bodgy Creek (nee Wagga Wagga). The town’s population is dwindling and so are the number of people wanting to play AFL. There’s a reluctant coach, an influx of refugees who have moved into a town with tough locals, a bright idea to tap into all this talent to rejuvenate the hapless local club and an unaccepting club president played by John joined by his perky wife played by Penny.

It’s a great combination of Aussie characters, back stories and humour which will be unleashed on local movie theatres from the end of August.

Penny, 61, has had a busy life since she shot to fame as the fresh-faced veterinarian Vicky in the iconic 1980’s television series A Country Practice; funnily enough, alongside John Howard.

She has raised a daughter, looked after her ageing mother prior to her death and now watches over her step-mother who has dementia.

“There were things I had to say no to because I wanted to be around for her (daughter),” Penny said.

“She is now in West Australia at acting school.

And I was caring for my mother so that limited my commitment to stuff that I could do.”

Fitting her career into that busy family life was a challenge, but Penny has kept her hand in acting with plays and musical theatre productions, working with the corporate sector and some commercial station and ABC television shows.

She has also worked alongside some fascinating characters in her MC roles including former US president Bill Clinton and Prince Charles.

On top of all her out-front work, in the background Penny is also an Australia Day ambassador. She is also on the board of the young people’s theatre company, Monkey Baa. “We are presently touring Josephine Wants to Dance all over Australia,” Penny said.

“It’s great for not only kids to come and see it, but also for adults and grandparents who love taking their grandchildren.”

She says The Merger is a movie made up of a combination of many things.

“It’s very silly, but it deals with bigotry and racism and with good wins in the end, with a lot of laughs and tears along the way,” Penny said.

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SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018

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60-year-old crowned Ms World 2018 Robyn’s award proves age is but a number

Ann Rickard

INSPIRATIONAL: Beauty Queen Robyn Canner.

Photo: Jim DeFreece

IF ANYONE thought beauty pageants were only for the young they should look to Robyn Canner for inspiration. At age 60, she has claimed the title of Australia’s oldest beauty queen after being crowned Ms World 2018 in Seattle.

Beating contestants from 22 countries from ages of 26 upwards, Robyn has proven age is but a number.

Contestants were judged on fitness wear, evening gown, an interview and panel question.

“I was up against a lot of younger women and won, so it’s one more for the oldies,” Robyn said.

“There is no stigma attached to age any more.”

Robyn’s prizes included a crystal crown and $US5000.

Robyn’s positive ageing mindset is a huge influence on her ability to do what she does. She is proud be the first 60-year-old Ms World, and believes age is a state-of-mind rather than life-defining figure.

“I want to help other women celebrate and embrace being over 50,” she said.

“I am hoping to inspire women to stop paying attention to their age number, and be fearless about making changes in their lives, and to celebrate their life experiences and

knowledge.”

While the glamour of wearing frocks and high heels has brought excitement to Robyn’s life, her genuine passion is in helping others, and the Ms World 2018 pageant has provided a platform for Robyn to spread awareness.

Robyn’s 22-year-old son died of non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma seven years ago, and she has been passionate about doing cancer charity work since.

“Somehow I found pageantry and then found myself on World Class Beauty Queen magazine covers in the US and Europe,” she said. “It was inspiring and was character-building – it encouraged me to keep going.”

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NEWS

AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS

‘‘ Residents

They even like it when the kids play up – it makes them laugh

revel in joy of children

Two different age-groups entertain each other

Alison Houston

GENERATION FUN: Young and old mix it up at Bupa Bateau Bay. Photos: Contributed

A WEEKLY playgroup at Bateau Bay is changing the lives of both children and the residents of the Bupa Aged Care centre where it is held.

“All the residents get a lot out of it, but particularly the dementia patients,” playgroup organiser Angela Johns said.

“It’s really amazing to see – it touches something in them.

“As soon as they see the children, or especially a baby, their faces soften and light up.

“And the workers report it has a real flow-on to their mood and recognition.”

Angela’s own children, Mia and Max, have both attended the Montessori-styled playgroup, Bateau Bay Nurture the Child, which started 18 months ago, initially paying visits to the aged centre, before this year calling it home.

“I felt like there was more we could do,” Angela explained.

“If you don’t go frequently enough, you don’t form those relationships that we have now, where we all know each other and the regulars are sitting waiting for us to arrive.”

Group time involves about 20 residents sitting out enjoying the sun while

An innovative playgroup sparks joy. children from 8-10 families paint and draw.

This is followed by about 20 minutes of young and old alike singing familiar songs and saying nursery rhymes with movements, finishing with a goodbye song.

Angela said the residents always had pictures to take back to their rooms, while the kids also loved sitting on the residents’ laps to have stories read to them.

“The residents think it’s incredible all the things the kids do, and they even like it when the kids play up, it makes them laugh – for them it’s reality and it reminds them of their

kids, when they had moments too,” she said.

“I think actually both groups enjoy the attention and having a captive audience.”

Central Coast Seniors spoke to Angela after the group’s first visit to the dementia ward in late July, and she said it was likely to become a regular part of their week.

“We had a bubble machine, and the residents loved that and the dolls and toys the kids brought in – it’s the simple things that are often the most effective.”

And, she said, the kids essentially “don’t see the dementia, or recognise anything unusual”.

Angela paid tribute to former Bupa Bateau Bay general manager Robyn Blackwell who had made the program possible, including getting staff their Working with Children checks.

“She’s really passionate about intergenerational care, and she was so supportive,” she said.

“I feel really blessed to be in this space to do this, because it’s not hard, but it’s so rewarding for everyone and the residents are so grateful.”

The group, which currently has about Facebook 95 members, meets on Wednesdays from 9.30am. For details, find them on Facebook or at Playgroup NSW.

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Spring Fever

windy in spring and summer because the allergens are stirred up and blown around.

Stuffy head, runny nose, sneezing, sore, itchy, watery eyes, cough, itchy, blocked ears: if you have these symptoms without a fever, you most likely have hayfever, medically known as allergic rhinitis.

Since the body reacts by making histamine and this causes many of these symptoms, an antihistamine will usually decrease the problem a lot. Antihistamines come in eye drops, nose sprays Whilst these symptoms may and tablet form. It takes a seem like just an annoyance, while for them to work, so the if they make you sleep poorly, sooner you start, the better. you can be drowsy during the In the meantime, a day and your immune system will not get the boost it needs decongestant tablet, drop or spray can give you a break overnight. Hayfever can make from sneezing. Corticosteroids you more susceptible to sinus in nasal sprays also help the and eye infections and can make asthma symptoms harder symptoms--and not just in the nose. to control too, so it’s best not to just put up with it.

It is often possible to combine What causes hayfever? Not just hay. Pollen from grass, weeds and trees, dust mites, mould, and animal dander are all major culprits.

The problem is worse when it’s

products or ingredients to get better relief. Just as your Amcal Pharmacist what is best for you. They have the knowledge, are always available and happy to help.

GOOD HEALTH: Learn the triggers for Type 2 diabetes.

Improve your relationship now with your heart DIABETES Australia wants people to understand the very strong relationship between heart disease and type 2 diabetes; it’s their number one cause of death.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports about 574,000 Australians aged 65 and over are living with mostly type 2 diabetes, which is a largely preventable condition. Men account for about 55 per cent of these reported cases while rates can increase

with age with the highest prevalence reported in people aged 85 and over.

It’s possible you are unaware of your risk of developing diabetes because you are currently feeling okay and there are no obvious warning signs of a possible chronic condition developing.

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“We are asking people to Take Diabetes 2 Heart and have a serious conversation with their GP about what they can do to reduce their risk.”

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11

Lateral thinking: How to best use life skills Gail Forrer Group Editor Issues underpinning work after 60 have emerged in a number of categories including availability, suitability and, in particular, age discrimination.

The article below reflects back to us these issues and, for one person, a solution.

In particular, companies extending formal apprenticeship for older workers are noted, and also that few such initiatives have been taken up in Australia.

Gail Forrer PETER Brady was 68 when he decided to start the transition to retirement.

His plan was to switch from full-time work to casual contracts so he’d have more time to spend

with his family and to study.

However, the former CEO of Autism ACT soon hit a snag: age discrimination.

“I found if I submitted my full CV, I wouldn’t get an interview,” he said.

“If I truncated my experience and qualifications I’d get one, but then I’d show up at the interview and be competing against all these Gen Ys. “I’ve got no doubt there was discrimination going on.”

The Australian Human Rights Commission’s Willing to Work report of 2016 found age-related bias is widespread – and particularly rife in employment.

“Remarkably, the report found a high proportion of hiring managers who were taking age into account were aged over 40 themselves,” a manager at aged care provider IRT Foundation, Toby Dawson, said.

While age discrim-

ination has a slew of negative impacts, including those on mental health, families and financial independence, it was also regrettable from a broader economic perspective.

A 2015 survey by the Australian Human Rights Commission found an increase of just five per cent in the paid employment of Australians aged over 55 would have a $48 billion impact on the economy each year.

With the number of Australians aged 65 and over projected to double by 2055, there will be an increased demand for aged-care services and additional strain on the welfare system if greater labour force participation was not achieved.

While the Willing to Work report urged the government to create a national action plan to address employment discrimination and to launch public education campaigns to dispel

negative stereotypes about older workers, some have started taking matters into their own hands.

Mr Brady said he was delighted to be offered a reverse internship by IRT’s Toby Dawson, who at the time was 31.

The idea came from the movie The Intern, starring Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway, in which a 70-year-old widower interns at a fashion company run by a CEO half his age.

“It just so happened The Intern had come out and we’d both seen it. We talked about it at the interview and decided that’s what we’d do,” Mr Brady said.

“My role was to share some of the tricks of the trade and where I had skinned my knees, so to speak. At the same time, Toby was managing transitioning me to a more junior role – he was coaching me in how to do it again.”

Mr Brady didn’t want to

stop working completely and working 40 hours a month would allow him to put the money he’d made from selling an investment property into his super fund. However, he understood if he wanted to work fewer hours, he would need to take on a more junior role.

“When you go for those senior roles, they’ll start off saying 20 hours a week is fine but within a matter of weeks it becomes, ‘Can you give us another day?’ Or the board is calling you up at all hours. It’s difficult to be a part time CEO or manager, because crises inevitably come up.”

The role he was offered as a project coordinator at IRT allowed Mr Brady to brush up his social media skills and to learn how to use newer Microsoft Office applications; tasks he previously delegated.

He said the first year of the 18-month internship was challenging, partly because it required a change of mindset.

Talk 'n' thoughts

“When you’re no longer the manager and not directing people any more, it’s emotionally a bit draining,” he said.

But he said the experience was invaluable because he had since moved to work for Wollongong City Council where he was employed on a casual basis.

It was also a win for Mr Dawson, who said working with Mr Brady fast-tracked his own learning and development.

Companies such as Barclays Bank in the UK and Goldman Sachs and PricewaterhouseCoopers in the US have launched formal apprenticeships targeting older workers, however there were few such initiatives in Australia.

This story was originally published by bluenotes, ANZ’s newsroom for insights, opinion, research and news about the economy, financial services, investment and society, from within ANZ and outside.

12

NEWS

AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS

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13

Step out and help dementia sufferers Alison Houston HAVING lost both her father and grandmother to dementia, Emma McBride made a promise to her mother to do “everything I could to help people living with dementia and those who care for them”.

The Member for Dobell’s latest step in that commitment is to host the Grant McBride Memory Walk at Long Jetty on Saturday, September 8, to raise awareness and funds for Dementia Australia.

It is, of course, named in honour of her father, the long-serving former Member for the Entrance (1992-2011), who died in February at 68, after living with younger onset dementia for over five years.

And with distances from

1-7km, and costing from just $10 for seniors aged 60-plus, it’s something that Emma believes everyone can join in and help to make a difference through.

Emma is patron of the newly formed Central Coast Dementia Alliance, which works to raise awareness, reduce stigma and support people living with dementia, and their carers.

Last year she also organised the Walk in My Shoes Carers Conference, and regularly highlights in parliament the needs of her older constituents, recently hosting Federal Labor’s Medicare Taskforce for a roundtable on aged care and dementia at The Entrance.

“On the Coast we have about 6000 people living with dementia, and that number is expected to

HAPPIER TIMES: Emma McBride in 2008 with her father Grant, after whom the September 8 Memory Walk to raise awareness and funds for dementia has been named.

Photo: Peter Clark reach 14,000 by 2050,” Emma said.

“Dementia affects those living with it, as well as their carers, family and friends.

“Memory Walks started in 2004, and now bring together tens of thousands of people each year.”

As we live longer, the number of people living (and dying) with dementia is growing – 425,000 have been diagnosed nationwide, with nearly 300,000 carers – so the disease is touching more and more of our lives.

With one in five Coast residents aged over 65,

Emma hopes everyone with an interest in positive ageing will take part in the Grant McBride Memory Walk by running, walking, sponsoring or donating.

The event starts at 10am at Saltwater Creek Park, Tuggerah Pde, Long Jetty, where it will also finish.

Bring along a picnic, or enjoy the sausage sizzle for a small price. You can choose a 7km route to Picnic Point, The Entrance and back, 4km to Long Jetty and back or the 1km course for those with kids or limited mobility.

Participants are

encouraged to gain sponsors, and bring along family, friends, even your dog ($5). To register or donate go to the website memorywalk.com.au/ events/77/emmamcbride.

FUNDRAISING TIPS

■ Social media: Everyone loves to read about good people doing good things, so don’t be shy; spread the word that you are taking part.

■ Set a goal and update how you are going: Statistics show that fundraising pages with targets raise 46 per cent more.

■ Get creative: Tell your friends that if you raise $500, you’ll run the course in a clown costume, or whatever will get them hooked.

■ Email and posters: For those who don’t have Facebook and to let people at work or clubs know what you are doing, try some old-fashioned communication.

■ Match dollars: Some employers, clubs, groups or even friends will match dollar for dollar what you make in your other fundraising.

Ideas courtesy of Dementia Australia.

Government boosts fight against elder abuse THE fight against elder abuse has been given a major boost with the Federal Government announcing a $2 million package for the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN).

Minister for Aged Care Ken Wyatt said the funding would be a key weapon in the face of growing concern that elder abuse is becoming rife throughout the community.

“Preventing elder abuse is everybody’s business because all older Australians have a fundamental right to expect safe, dignified treatment,” Mr Wyatt said.

“Estimates of elder abuse range from 2 to 12 per cent.

“Whether concerns are raised by older individuals, family members, aged care residents, staff,

community visitors or government officials, they must be heard and they must be acted on.”

And the Minister said OPAN – which was established last year to deliver key services throughout the country – was already becoming a powerful ally for victims of elder abuse.

“New figures show that OPAN had a combined 1330 information contacts and cases of

people at risk of or experiencing elder abuse in its first year of operation and conducted 285 sessions to educate older Australians and service providers on elder abuse protection,” he said.

“The OPAN services report that the more they make their services known, the more people contact them, who often feel they have nowhere to turn to for help.

“This new funding builds on the $1 million provided to OPAN to help combat elder abuse over the past year.”

Their key projects include: ■ Developing national elder abuse advocacy response protocols ■ Creating a national decision making system to support older people, especially those living with dementia ■ Implementing a

national elder abuse minimum dataset ■ Mapping elder abuse referral and support pathways in each state and territory ■ Researching special needs of rural and remote populations Senior Australians, their families or carers in need of advocacy should go to the OPAN website or phone 1800 700 600.

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AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS

Coast Community Connections Aged Home Care Packages

Coast Community Connections offers home support and care services to older aged locals allowing them to maintain independence and remain connected to their community.

As a registered MyAgedCare support provider, our team can assist with: Social outings & support

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Phone our friendly team today to discuss eligibility and requirements

P: 02 4343 1888 W: coastcommunityconnections.com.au

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018

15

Community group guide

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 ensure it is at least 180dpi or 500kb to 1mb in size and of faces, in a nice bright setting. Email editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au.

VIEW CLUBS

Brisbane Water Evening WE HOLD our monthly meeting in the Grange Hotel Function Room, Renwick Street, Wyoming on the fourth Tuesday of the month – 6.30pm for 7pm. New members and visitors are most welcome. Phone Valda on (02) 4325 1688 or Helen (02) 4367 5670.

Toukley WE MEET on the second Friday of the month at Club Toukley RSL at 10.30am. We have lucky door prizes, raffles and lunch followed by guest speakers or members anticipation. We also have outings, Friendship Morning Teas, Soup and Damper days raffles and interesting discussions. VIEW stands for voice, interests, education of women.

VIEW is a valued part of the Smith Family and raises money for Learning For Life sponsorship and education of disadvantaged Australian children and young adults.

Phone Sandra on 4396 6206.

TARRAGAL SPRING FAIR

COME join us and have a fun day and also do your pre-Christmas shopping on September 22 from 10am-2pm. There will be a variety of choices at the market stalls. Buy tickets in our Mega Raffle. Enter our bowling and table tennis competitions.

Great prizes to be won.

Enjoy Devonshire Tea and a sausage sizzle. At 6 Tarragal Glen Avenue, Erina or 110 Karalta Road, Erina.

POETRY BREAKFAST

JOIN us for a wonderful morning of poetry and laughter, not to mention great food. An assortment of bush poets and short story tellers will regale us with amusing, inspirational and educational tales, some of which will be based on the theme of “a little country church”.

A hearty breakfast of bacon, sausage, tomato, mushroom, eggs, toast and fruit with tea, coffee or juice will make this an

Community notes Our farmers are doing it tough and we want to help. Toukley 50 Leisure & Learning Centre is holding a concert and afternoon tea on Saturday, September 29. event not to be missed.

For those who wish to tell us their poems or short stories, an open mic will be available on the day for a small fee. Cost is $20, inclusive of breakfast and poetry. All profits go towards the upkeep of the historic 106-year-old Little White Church on the Hill.

On Saturday, September 29 at 9am at the Mangrove Mountain Union Church, 2154 Wisemans Ferry Road, Mangrove Mountain. Phone Judy on 0458 655 850 or like us on Facebook: facebook.com/Mangrove MountainUnionChurch.

Online tickets available at trybooking.com/wagi.

FUNDRAISER FOR OUR FARMERS

TOUKLEY 50 Leisure & Learning Centre is holding a concert and afternoon tea on Saturday, September 29 from 1-3.30pm in the Club Auditorium. Be entertained by our ever-popular David Lang &

STOP BY: Come along on Saturday, September 29 at 9am at the Mangrove Mountain Union Church for a special poetry breakfast.

Photos: Contributed Friends (who have kindly donated their fee to this fundraiser). All proceeds from the day will be donated to our Farmers.

Tickets are $10 each from Club Reception or on the day. Located at 1 Hargraves Street, Toukley.

Phone 4396 5075

TRIVIA NIGHT

THE Central Coast Clubs of Inner Wheel will hold their annual trivia night on September 21 at 6pm for a 6.30pm start.

Bistro opens at 5.30pm.

Cord Blood Research is the beneficiary of this function which is the major project of Inner Wheel Australia. Over many years 45 research grants have been awarded

by IW to scientists throughout Australia for research into new treatment for conditions such as juvenile diabetes, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, leukaemia and prostate cancer. Venue: Diggers at The Entrance, 315 The Entrance Road,

The Entrance. Wear a touch of red and white.

Fun games, raffle, lucky door prize and best dressed table. Gold coin donation required for games. Tickets $20 per person (10 players per table) nibbles included.

Bookings essential.

Phone Pat on 0417 480 549 or email r_pmatthews @bigpond.com.

ERINA TOASTMASTERS

LOOKING to connect with new people and a way to find your voice? We meet on the second and fourth Mondays at 6pm in the Erina Leagues Club.

Toastmasters can improve your speaking skills and communication in a fun and friendly environment.

Phone Gail on 0403 280 882.

WESLEY LIFEFORCE

WESLEY LifeForce has developed quality suicide prevention training. This

workshop is designed to teach people how to identify the signs that someone may be at risk of suicide and appropriate action to take. Simple effective interventions can make a real difference and save lives.

All Wesley LifeForce facilitators are accredited trainers and have completed suicide intervention training.

Interested? Phone Nicole on (02) 4321 8604.

WYONG WRITERS

LOCAL writers meet to develop their writing skills on the fourth Saturday of each month. Arrive 1.15pm for 1.30pm start.

Next meeting is September 22 at Woodbury Park Community Centre, 1 Woolmers Cres, Mardi.

Inquiries with President, Mei-Ling Venning on (02) 4333 7489, email meilingvenning@hotmail. com or go to wyongwriters.org.

DYING WITH DIGNITY NSW

OUR next meeting will be November 23 at 10am, Meeting Room 3, Gosford City Council Library, Erina Fair. All welcome. Phone (02) 4369 8053 for more information.

Enter to win fine collection of Australian novels SENIORS newspapers are offering you a chance to win books that have been recognised as the best in Australia.

The Miles Franklin Literary Award is Australia’s most prestigious literature prize.

Established through the will of My Brilliant Career author Miles Franklin, the prize is awarded each year to the author of a novel

which is of the highest literary merit and presents Australian life in any of its phases.

First presented in 1957, the award helps to support authors and to foster uniquely Australian literature.

Miles Franklin believed that “without an indigenous literature, people can remain alien in their own soil”.

She also had first-hand

experience of struggling to make a living as a writer and was the beneficiary of two literary prizes herself.

2018 award The short list for the 2018 Miles Franklin Literary Award has been announced. The short-listed titles are: ■ No More Boats by Felicity Castagna (Giramondo) ■ The Life to Come by Michelle de Kretser (A&U)

■ The Last Garden by Eva Hornung (Text) ■ Storyland by Catherine McKinnon (Fourth Estate) ■ Border Districts by Gerald Murnane (Giramondo) ■ Taboo by Kim Scott (Picador).

If you would like the chance to win a selection of these books, please read the advertisement on page 30.

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The gift of giving back Volunteering ensures a great variety of rewards

Volunteers help those in need.

‘‘

a program of volunteer Community Visitors that befriend residents in aged care professional photo of each volunteer in their role,” Fiona said.

“I feel that the real winners are the organisations and communities in which all our nominees volunteer!

“And this is certainly true for VCC, we have over 60 volunteers with 20 of those assisting us to help

other to find the ideal volunteering role for them in their community.

“One such volunteer is Dennis, who has been with VCC for over 10 years, presenting our ‘Bridge to Volunteering’ information session, making people feel welcome and being a shining example of someone who has found their calling in their mature years.

“We run a program of volunteer Community Visitors that befriend residents in aged care facilities, whose relatives may live too far away for regular visiting.

“This is a bespoke program that seeks out the extraordinary people that can be matched and make friends with the residents.

CHEERS TO VOLUNTEERS: Volunteering Central Coast befriend residents in aged care facilities, whose relatives may live too far away for regular visiting.

“The program’s 25th anniversary of being with VCC was celebrated recently with a short film by the ‘Bank of Goodwill’ program.”

Visit bankofgoodwill. com.au/portfolio/ community-visitorsscheme for more.

“Volunteering brings people together for many reasons,” Fiona said.

“Not only is it a great way to learn new skills, meet people and give back to the community, it is also a way to improve your own health and well-being.

“In addition, volunteering helps to get on the job experience and follow a path to employment and we are so proud to have a

wonderful team of our own volunteers giving back to those who give a great deal to their communities.”

For more information on how you can get involved, go to volunteeringcentral coast.org.au, phone (02) 4329 7122 or email recruit@volcc.org.au.

Everyone needs a lift sometime We can provide transport for Shopping Social Outings • Medical Appointments Other Special Needs We are always happy to welcome new volunteers to support our work with elderly clients

Call our caring customer service team to discuss your needs 4355 4588

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VOLUNTEERING Central Coast conducted their inaugural Volunteering Awards this year in National Volunteering Week, in recognition of some individuals who devote their time, energy and enthusiasm as volunteers in the Central Coast Community.

Categories included Volunteer of the Year, Young Volunteer of the year and ‘Living Legend’ Volunteer (10 or more years of service) as well as Volunteer Managers and Corporate Volunteers for 2018.

“The theme for this year’s National Volunteering Week was ‘Give a little change a lot’, however it appears that all the award nominations have given a great deal,” Fiona Morrison from Volunteering Central Coast said.

“Indeed, the people of the Central Coast are very generous with their time, skills and hearts with a higher percentage of people volunteering here that in Greater Sydney, over 46,000 people volunteer, and we get to meet many of them at Volunteering Central Coast.”

The judges were representatives from the VCC Board, TAFE’s Community Services Unit and Hunter Volunteer Centre, and they were looking for how volunteers personified VCC’s message about volunteering – ‘Helping people, changing lives’.

“VCC are showcasing each winner with a once in a lifetime opportunity to be recognised for their endeavours in their own community, thanks to our award sponsors, Claude Neon, for donating the promotional space at their bus shelters to present a

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018

NEWS

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Fulfilment at Fairhaven Your chance to give-back BRAND INSIGHTS INTERESTED in giving back to/being part of the community in a meaningful and fulfilling way?

Fairhaven is a not-for-profit organisation that has been working with families on the Central Coast since 1962.

We value and respect the capacity of people living with disabilities to lead the life they choose.

Fairhaven has a few volunteering opportunities we’d appreciate you considering.

Fairhaven is dependent on the generosity of community-minded people. We enjoy offering opportunities for the community to be involved in what we do.

We are extremely grateful for the time and effort provided by all volunteers. We could not continue to do what we do without generous volunteers, just like you.

Activities you can be

‘‘

Fairhaven is dependent on the generosity of communityminded people involved with are: ■ Fairhaven shopping village – our retail and book store, art and crafts, furniture barn, plant nursery or sorting donations ■ Experienced woodworking enthusiasts in ReCreate Garden and building maintenance ■ Donation pick-ups and furniture delivery ■ Creative craft, art and up-cyclers ■ Special events such as autumn fete and car boot sales.

Phone (02) 4349 5500, email hello@fairhaven. org.au or go to www.fairhaven.org.au.

ARE YOU A VOLUNTEER? Fairhaven Central Coast could do with your skills if you’re keen. Photo: Wavebreakmedia

Funding to help more voices join in song

Grants are available to help start more With One Voice community choirs.

There are no auditions, no requirement to compete or perform publicly, no restrictions on what is sung. But membership is expected to be drawn from and embrace a wide cross-section of a community.

The seed funding supports setting up a choir and a mentoring program.

“We spend 12 months with the group to make sure the choir establishes itself in the community in a way that is sustainable,” Nathan said.

“We try to set groups up so that they can sustain the program over a period of time. We think a lot of the benefits of the group don’t happen in just 6-12

months.”

Applications for these grants are open until August 31 through www.creativityaustralia. org.au/start.

Creativity Australia was founded 10 years ago by soprano singer Tanya de Jong.

Its primary aim is to create social community enterprises through singing.

“Your social status or income level doesn’t have an impact on your ability to sing,” Nathan said.

“It’s a great leveller.

People come to these programs as equals and sing as equals.”

There are some 3000 Australians in Victoria, NSW, Queensland, ACT and South Australia, aged between nine and 90, who are members of a With One Voice choir.

Seven new choirs have already been established this year as a result of these seed-funding grants.

If starting a choir isn’t your interest, Nathan suggests you join an existing one. The list of choirs is on the Creativity Australia website.

SOCIAL INCLUSION: A With One Voice choir in action.

Photos: Graham Denholm

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Under its With One Voice project, the not-for-profit organisation is offering up to five seed funding grants, worth $10,000 each, for organisations or individuals to start With One Voice choirs.

Applicants need to be local communities, social businesses or not-forprofits willing to promote social inclusion.

Program director Nathan Lange said these choirs are intended to help tackle “what is a growing epidemic in Australia of isolation and loneliness” along with depression and disadvantage in their community.

“People are becoming less connected – there are less opportunities to do so. So we think bringing people together and singing provides a whole range of benefits that can’t be done in any other way.”

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Helping older Australians retain their independence Sensors support stay at home BRAND INSIGHTS HEALTH data shows that falls are now one of the leading causes of hospital admissions for Australians aged 65 and over, and with more Aussies living in their own homes longer, 60 per cent of all falls now occur at home.

AbiBird has been developed in Australia to support people who want to retain their independence as they age.

The AbiBird sensor is placed in the home of your loved one and tracks daily activity in their home.

The sensor then shares this information on the smartphone of a carer or family member.

If activity stops, or is unusual, AbiBird sends an alert to the AbiBird app on your smartphone.

A quick glance at your smartphone can let you know whether your loved one is OK, or if they may

need attention.

A key difference between AbiBird and other products is that AbiBird is not a wearable device and it does not need an internet or telephone connection. AbiBird has also been designed to maintain privacy, there is no camera or audio recording.

One or two AbiBird sensors is enough for a typical home and AbiBird can be installed in less than a few minutes.

You simply turn it on, download the free AbiBird app and confirm or change the settings.

Replacing the batteries once a year when alerted is the only maintenance required.

The AbiBird solution is available for a free one month trial and thereafter it is only $20 per month.

There are no installation fee or lock-in-contracts.

Go to abibird.com.au or phone 1300 132 121.

HELPING HAND: The AbiBird sensor is placed in the home of your older loved one and tracks daily activity in their home.

Photo: Christian Quinlan

Digital health record is a valuable tool for some SANDRA Johnston has a number of chronic conditions which is why she finds having a My Health Record invaluable.

“I see a wide variety of health professionals including six different specialists. Now I have My Health Record, when I visit the GP I don’t have to worry about remembering medications and test results because I know it’s available,” Sandra said.

Six million Australians already have a My Health

Record, an online summary of their key health information.

By the end of this year all Australians will have a record, unless they choose not to have one.

71-year-old Clint Ferndale has been in the health business for quite some time.

He created a My Health Record last year because it was “the way of the future”.

He finds the system easy to use.

“I found it easy to

authorise various accesses or set up barriers to bar access,” Clint said.

“I think the whole thing is rather easy. I’m not a technocrat, I’m just a user.”

Some key things to remember about My Health Record: ■ Your important healthcare information is available in one place and accessible by your doctors, specialists or hospitals.

■ When moving

interstate or travelling, your information can be viewed securely online.

■ In emergency situations, treating doctors can view information such as current medications and Advance Care Plans to provide appropriate treatment quickly.

■ You don’t need to remember the dates of tests, medicine names or dosages.

■ Because healthcare providers have better access to clinical

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information, they have a more detailed picture to make decisions, diagnose and provide treatment.

■ You can control what information goes into your My Health Record and restrict who is allowed to access it.

■ For those that require assistance accessing your My Health Record, you can nominate someone to act on your behalf or ask healthcare providers involved in your care to add information to your record.

■ The My Health Record system is protected by robust, high grade, multi-tiered security controls and all data is stored in Australia.

By the end of 2018, a My Health Record will be created for every Australian, unless they choose not to have one.

If you don’t want a My Health Record, you can opt out by October 15.

For more information, go to myhealthrecord.gov.au or phone 1800 723 471.

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018

NEWS

RETIREMENT DESTINATION: Roys Peak Track in Wanaka, New Zealand.

19

Photo: Miles Holden

An overseas retirement

New Zealand is the number one destination for retirees

often earning bigger dollars than they could at home.

Others, he said, looked at New Zealand as being both culturally and geographically close to Australia but potentially giving them a better standard of living, with house prices, groceries and eating out all costing significantly less in New Zealand.

“It’s just a quick flight across the ditch, but your money goes a lot further and that is something pensioners are becoming a lot more aware about: as people are living longer, they are looking to make those savings dollars go further,” Patrick said.

WEDnESDay 19Th SEpTEMbER

WorldFirst head of foreign exchange Patrick Liddy.

Having links to family and friends overseas, similar cultures, and “a community you can just walk into” were also enticing, as was the fact that funds could be transferred to New Zealand within one business day.

savings, maybe $1 million, you want to make the most of your dollars,” he said.

For instance, the change in the market of Australian to US dollars over recent months from over 80c in the dollar to 73c equates to about $100,000 if transferring $1 million.

Those who emigrated to the US four years ago, when the Australian dollar was particularly strong against the Greenback, would be 20 per cent better off than if they exchanged the same amount today.

“You need to do your research and look at future currency projections,” Patrick said, particularly with economic uncertainty, current threats of trade wars with China, and US volatility.

WorldFirst offers a

unique Forward Contract, which allows customers to lock in a rate of exchange available today and settle the contract in anything up to two years, according to when they want to actually make their move.

Alternatively, you might want to transfer smaller amounts on an ongoing basis, depending on rates, investments and circumstances.

The best thing, Patrick said, was to get professional advice on what was best for your individual financial position.

Worldfirst.com.au manages international payments across 45 currencies and promotes its exchange rates as up to seven times cheaper than offered by the big four banks.

Win Tickets to A Special Screening Thanks to Event Cinemas, we’re giving away 10 double passes for readers to attend the Seniors Morning Tea and Screening of Disney’s ‘Christopher Robin’, from 10am on Wednesday 19th September.^ Tickets $10* for Cinebuzz for Seniors Members.

Sign up to be a member for free online at eventcinemas.com.au Tickets for this screening go on sale on August 15.

In the heart warming live action adventure Disney’s “Christopher Robin,” the young boy who embarked on countless adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood with his band of spirited and lovable stuffed animals, has grown up and lost his way. Now it is up to his childhood friends to venture into our world and help Christopher Robin remember the loving and playful boy who is still inside.

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THERE is a lot to think about if you’re considering retiring overseas, and much of it comes down to money and community, according to WorldFirst head of foreign exchange Patrick Liddy.

New Zealand was the number one destination for Aussies looking to retire overseas, he said, citing WorldFirst’s analysis of thousands of pension-type international transfers by customers across 2016 and 2017.

It was closely followed by the UK. The figures didn’t surprise Patrick, with many of those transfers made by people returning to retire in their homeland after working in Australia,

Singapore had the third highest proportion of pension money transfers, closely followed by Thailand, and then the USA. “We’re definitely seeing an increase in Asian destinations,” Patrick said.

“You can live like royalty in Thailand for a modest amount in Australian dollars, and it’s a stunning place.”

On the other hand, it’s Singapore’s strong economy which appears to be drawing Australian ex-pats, despite its high cost of living.

The important thing if thinking of moving anywhere overseas, Patrick said, was to do your research and move your funds at the right time.

“When you’re looking at a bulk transfer of your

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NEWS

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A prestigious vision for luxury Redcliffe living WITH the projection of more than five million to be over the age of 65 by 2025, downsizing to a more convenient, luxurious lifestyle by the beach to enjoy the positive effects of health and well-being by the seashore, is still high on the list of living choices for many seniors.

Now under construction

by Traders in Purple, the new Bathers Beachside development is a high-end, luxury project consisting of 24 expansive apartments positioned directly opposite the water in Margate.

This prestigious development is for those for whom only the best will do.

A closely guarded local secret, Margate with its two kilometres of sandy beach is a little piece of paradise tucked away on Queensland’s stunning Redcliffe Peninsula.

At Bathers Beachside you will find a world of bayside grandeur with spacious, open-plan layouts of generous proportions set to become a lifestyle icon and a shining beacon on the Redcliffe Peninsula.

Nature lovers will be enthralled with the sighting of approximately 22,000 migrating whales that pass through Moreton Bay from June to October each year.

The lure of absolute beachfront living has seen buyers from Brisbane and across Australia excited about rediscovering the Redcliffe Peninsula.

Known to those in the know, as a “tranquil pocket of paradise”, discerning buyers are offered a stunning opportunity to live so close to Moreton Bay and still be within a 35 minute commute to Brisbane’s CBD. Comprising 24 luxury three bedroom apartments from the ground floor to the third floor, Bathers Beachside capitalises on its waterfront location and uninterrupted Moreton Bay views.

With its sophisticated design and sweeping vistas of the endless ocean, Bathers Beachside will appeal to those buyers searching out quality apartments in the upper $800,000 range.

With a discerning palette of refined finishes

DISCERNING DESIGN: Comfort, style and easy living have been prioritised in these luxury apartments.

Bathers Beachside with its uninterrupted Moreton Bay views from all apartments.

Traders in Purple are proud developers of beautiful living spaces.

Photo: Mike Curtain Photography

and superior well equipped kitchens complete with Miele appliances and home automation, Bathers Beachside has enjoyed great demand from buyers with off-the-plan expressions of interest and strong early sales.

Traders in Purple have over 30 years of business experience and development know-how, dating back to the early

environmental impacts and maximise the leverage of natural resources to lower living costs for buyers,” Robertson continued.

Significant natural light penetration and air flow through the increased ceiling height and floor-to-ceiling glazing reduces the need for air-conditioning and artificial lighting.

Positioned an easy 35

1980s.

Their vision for Bathers Beachside was to encompass the local lifestyle values of the blue chip location of Margate Beach by offering open-plan living, and ensuring the development responded to climate and context by maximising natural light, breezes and spaces to entertain.

“Part of the Traders in Purple developer hallmark

is to maximise space in the living and balcony areas of our apartments where people spend most of their time,” says CEO Brett Robinson.

“Our passion for environmental sustainability goes into each and every project we develop with techniques, products and innovative designs incorporated into every development.

“These minimise

minute drive from Brisbane’s CBD, this magnificent stretch of coastline is never over crowded.

Margate Beach features soft white sand and a scenic timber boardwalk that stretches along the coastline for leisurely strolls.

For more information, go to the website www. bathersbeachside.com.

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018

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NEWS

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AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018

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New look centre Health group integratedliving has opened a purpose-built well-being centre especially for the benefit of older adults Tania Phillips A PROGRAM aimed at giving older people better health and more independence has reached a major milestone with the opening of new Wellness Centre in Ballina on August 15.

The centre is the brainchild of integratedliving, a not-for-profit organisation aimed at providing vital services for older people and their carers across rural, regional and remote areas of Australia.

While there are already five Wellness centres in rural and regional Australia – Ballina is the first purely purpose-built facility, according to integratedliving’s CEO Catherine Daley.

Ms Daley said up until now the centres had been put into their existing facility but more purpose-built facilities were in the works.

The business has come a long way since first forming in the Muswellbrook area in 1999.

It now operates services from the Northern Territory and northern Queensland right through to Launceston in Tasmania.

“The only places we don’t operate are metropolitan Melbourne and Brisbane,” she said, adding that integratedliving aimed to help people outside the major cities to improve

their health and have access to the latest facilities.

She said it was now Asia Pacific’s number one specialist health service provider and the new Ballina centre showcased just what the group could offer.

Research shows that in regional, rural and remote communities, 75 per cent of people are not getting enough exercise and more than 50 per cent of people have one or more chronic illnesses.

Ms Daley said the focus at integratedliving was to provide access to health and well-being services to older Australians in these areas and creating the Wellness Centre in Ballina would help to achieve that.

The Wellness Centre at Ballina features a state-of-the-art Wellness Gym and a range of services to help older people live an active and independent life and improve their situation, on both health and social levels.

The services include exercise and yoga classes, massage therapy, occupational therapy services, allied health treatments, assistive product displays and the ‘Staying Healthy Eating Well’ meals service.

They have Australia’s first set of Moto-Tiles, where users can tap their toes on the flashing tiles to test and improve their co-ordination and balance.

Wellbeing

‘‘

integratedliving is now Asia Pacific’s number one specialist health service provider and the new Ballina centre showcased just what the group could offer.

GREAT HEALTH FACILITIES: Seniors will be using in the new Ballina Wellness Centre.

The gym features specialist HUR equipment from Finland.

The equipment is

designed to help older people stay active while also supporting people who require

exercise as part of rehabilitation.

■ The new Wellness Centre is at Ballina West

Photo: tuukkakiviranta.com

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WELLBEING

AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS

Men’s Health: Chesty body panels check

IT DOESN’T matter whether you are in your 60s, 70s or older, it’s a good time to check out the uppper body panels: your chest.

You can use the following check list from Foundation 49 for some of the items you should consider talking to your GP about and to find out more information.

■ Asthma (air/fuel mix) – asthmaaustralia. org.au.

■ COPD (air/fuel mix) – includes emphysema, chronic bronchitis and chronic asthma – lungfoundation.com.au/ patient-support/copd/ ■ Blood Pressure (oil pressure) – heartfoundation.org.au/ your-heart/know-yourrisks/blood-pressure.

■ Heart risk factors (clean fuel lines) – heartfoundation.org. au/your-heart/know-your -risks/heart-attack-riskfactors.

■ Heart disease (broken heart) – heartfoundation.org.au/ for-professionals/ clinical-information/

INTERVENTION PROGRAM: Nurse Andrea Taylor and Dr EJ Marsden, from the program, with patient Joan Graham.

Photo: Lou O'Brien.

Emergency dept intervention plan for the elderly Tracey Johnstone

MEN'S HEALTH: Check out your chest health this winter.

Photo: Men's Health coronary-heart-disease.

■ Type 2 Diabetes (fuel injector blockage) – diabetesaustralia.com.

au/type-2-diabetes.

Go to: malehealth.org.au.

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“Those nurses are specially equipped to make detailed assessments of frailty and particular issues that relate to older people,” Prof Wallis said.

“They then have direct referral pathways such as straight through to the orthopaedic surgeon or the aged care team or to community services if the GEDI nurse believes the patient would be better looked after by that group.

“The GEDI nurses can organise for people to be safely transported back home, and put in place better care.

“With the appropriate care at home these people then avoid the stresses of medication and routine changes, disorientation and confusion – all of which can happen when an elderly person is pushed into the ED.” The program is in place at two Sunshine Coast hospitals. It will be rolled out in Cairns and Ipswich before an implementation training program will be developed and offered Australia-wide.

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THE unique Geriatric Emergency Department Intervention program, which was conceived and tested in a small hospital in regional Queensland, has the potential to go worldwide.

The program is a fast-track hospital emergency department program designed specifically for frail elderly patients, mostly aged about 70 and over.

Often these potential patients arrive at emergency as the first stop when a key medical issue arises and, for example, their GP is not immediately available.

The patient is then placed into the hospital system immediately. However, it’s not always necessary for this person to have hospital admission and be submitted to the often very stressful, high-pressure department.

University of the Sunshine Coast program research leader and program co-designer,

Professor Marianne Wallis said, “If you are increasingly frail, maybe with some mild cognitive impairment or some other age-related condition, then emergency departments become very confusing places; there are bright lights, noise, machines going ping. They can worsen mental functioning; people can become quite anxious and confused.”

“What these patients need is for someone to work out what care is required for the patient.

This is where GEDI comes to the fore. A team of gerontology-skilled ED nurses, dressed in bright and easily identifiable pink uniform, are on hand.

Attached to the team is an ED doctor who acts as the medical lead and communicates with other doctors on the GEDI patient’s needs and status.”

Where the service starts is when a frail person arrives at the ED. The primary ED nurse will call in a GEDI nurse to review an admitting patient.

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SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018

WELLBEING

Come again with Encore programme Alison Houston CONNECTING, sharing, fitness, fun and self-confidence are what the Encore breast cancer exercise program is all about.

Run by the YWCA, it is a free eight-week program designed specifically for women who have had mastectomy, lumpectomy or breast reconstruction surgery at any time in their lives.

Carol Campbell runs the course regularly on the Central Coast, with the next starting in Erina on Thursday, October 18.

Joyce Byrne attended the last program and is keen to take part again, having found that being able to “talk to ladies with the same issues and discuss them openly with each other” was a great comfort and support.

“When I had breast cancer, I thought I was the only one, but I realised at Encore there are so many of us, all different and at various stages, but all going through similar things,” she said.

With her own business, Feather Touch Massage and Wellness Centre, and a background in nursing (from midwifery to palliative care), massage and health counselling, Carol is “loving life” in her “sizzling 60s”, and said she has always been “passionate about looking after women”.

She said the Encore program, running two hours per week, and combining floor and pool

25

‘‘

Joyce Byrne is keen to take part again, having found that being able to “talk to ladies with the same issues and discuss them openly with each other” exercises as well as guest speakers, was “empowering” for women at any stage of their treatment or recovery journey, whether two months or two decades after surgery.

“When you are diagnosed and being treated, it’s very hard to take in anything except that you’ve got cancer and you might die,” she said.

“It’s often not until after treatment that you feel able to say ‘I have a choice about how this disease is going to affect me’ and get education on how to care for yourself.”

Encore aims to help women improve their quality of life, fitness, mobility, strength, body image and confidence, as well as reducing the side effects of treatment including stress, muscle pain, fatigue and lymphedema.

Carol said Encore groups generally comprised up to 10 women 40-90 years old, with two facilitators at each “fun, light-hearted and supportive” session, and guest speakers covering everything from

massage to drumming to dance, yoga and lingerie.

Participants are assessed for flexibility and aerobic activity before the course and again at the end, and Carol said were often overwhelmed by how much they had improved.

While women may start out feeling body-conscious in swimsuits, or choose to wear shirts, Carol said “everyone loves the water (the pool is heated), and there’s lots of fun and laughter”.

“Everyone’s journey is very personal, but they all understand exactly how you are feeling and are all there to support each other,” she said.

Joyce agreed.

“I’m not a swimmer, but I really enjoyed the pool, and the program is very motivating to keep going with exercise incorporate it in what you do, and realise the importance of a healthy body,” she said.

SHARING AND CARING: Encore participant Joyce Byrne and facilitator Carol Campbell said the program combines education, support, fun and fitness.

Photo: Contributed

To find out more, go to ywcaencore.org.au, phone 0449 904 011 or contact Carol at lovelife.tpg. com.au.

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LIVING

AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS

Living

NEW HEALTH: The Federal Government has launched a trial into home-based treatment that includes holographic virtual doctors.

Seniors News IMAGINE this scenario: sitting in your lounge while you discuss medical advice with a hologram.

That could very well be a look into the not-too-distant future after the Federal Government launched a trial into home-based treatment that includes holographic virtual doctors.

The Australian-first Integrum Aged Care+ trial promises to reduce

hospitalisation and help senior Australians live independently in their homes for longer.

Minister for Aged Care Ken Wyatt said the trial, run by Silver Chain, a not-for-profit organisation delivering community health and aged care services, could hold the key to unlocking technologies that would assist seniors staying in charge of their health.

“This trial aims to overcome the challenges

of fragmented care and poorer patient experiences, which can happen when a person is transferred between hospitals, specialists and aged care providers,” Mr Wyatt said.

“It’s hoped that through Integrum older Australians will have more control over their care, through a wraparound network that delivers both health and social support.

“It will include the Australian-first application of the Enhanced Medical

Hologram trial allows seniors to stay in home for longer

Mixed Reality interface, allowing healthcare professionals to link with doctors and data through holograms and video conferencing, while they are visiting clients’ homes.

“The Silver Chain Integrum team will communicate with the client’s regular GP, if they have one, to complement the care they provide as part of a shared care model.

“This care team will oversee and manage

processes like care planning, co-ordination of health and aged care services, referrals and escalation of care, if needed.”

Mr Wyatt said the pre-trial results had returned positive feedback and led the Federal Government to back the initiative with a $948,400 investment.

“The second phase of the trial will see the program offered to up to 300 people with multiple chronic conditions who

have been hospitalised between one and five times in the previous year,” Mr Wyatt said.

“As part of the trial, the project team will be testing whether this integrated care approach helps senior Australians to better manage their conditions at home and reduce hospitalisations and emergency department visits.”

For more, details on the Integrum program, go to silverchain.org.au.

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SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018

LIVING

A beachy lifestyle is right here Affordable beachfront living BRAND INSIGHTS WAKING up to the sound of waves crashing on the shore at the nearby beach was something Vicky and Mark Rayner always knew they wanted wherever they ended up in retirement.

“We’ve been coming to the Central Coast region for the past 30 years, visiting friends and family.

And I always thought it would be a lovely place to retire to,” Vicky said.

The first step in Vicky and Mark’s retirement journey took them to Valhalla by Gateway Lifestyle, in Chain Valley Bay. While this is substantially closer to the beach than their former home in the Penrith area, it isn’t as close as their new home at Beachfront.

“We love the lifestyle

we found living in a Gateway Lifestyle community,” Vicky said.

“Friends of ours live in a similar style village, so when the time came we knew and liked the financial model, and we like the great facilities and the sense of peace we found.”

Making the move from Valhalla to Beachfront came about after they stayed at Beachfront as tourists, and it was in the process of being converted to an over-50s residential community.

“Residents of Gateway Lifestyle communities get a discount on accommodation in their tourist parks up and down the coast, so we booked at Beachfront when we were up there for a friend’s birthday,” Vicky said.

“When we heard we

COME ON IN: Beachfront Welcome Billboard. could live here permanently, it was an easy decision. We love the proximity to Foster and Tuncurry, there’s so much to do in this area, and of course we get to live within metres of the beach.”

Gateway Lifestyle CEO Trent Ottawa said Beachfront’s location is definitely a key selling point, as is the financial model that living in a land lease community offers.

“Who wouldn’t want to

live so close to the beach when there is such affordable housing available?” Mr Ottawa asks.

“At this stage of development, potential residents have a great choice of homes and sites at Beachfront. It really is a great time to be downsizing into a low maintenance lifestyle.”

Inspections can be arranged at any time with Chris on (02) 6559 2630.

Beachfront, Kookaburra and a view.

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Aveo takes giant step into the future with Bella Vista

Aveo builds luxury units North West Sydney BRAND INSIGHTS

THE future of retirement living has arrived.

Market giant Aveo have taken a giant step to providing “the best retirement living options on the market” with the opening of the first stage of the $400 million Aveo Bella Vista in New South Wales.

Aveo CEO Geoff Grady believes the new community, located in the $3 billion Norwest project, will provide the very best in lifestyle, luxury and peace of mind.

“Retirement attitudes and needs are changing – people entering this stage of their life want to

BIG BUCKS: The $400 million Aveo Bella Vista is set to offer the very best in lifestyle, luxury and peace of mind.

Photo: Aveo

maintain their lifestyle, and Aveo Bella Vista is leading the charge to meet this demand by providing the best retirement living options on the market,” Mr Grady said.

“Being part of the exciting Norwest precinct and incorporating

beautiful gardens, a lake and retail space into the community’s design will play an instrumental role in bringing the local community together.

“Aveo Bella Vista’s unrivalled location near Norwest Private Hospital, complemented by our on-site care services,

means that we’ll be able to provide the necessary services for seniors to age in place. Our residents will have around-the-clock access to the best possible care as and when they need it.”

The soon to be opened $75 million Waratah stage exhibits the key

attractions of the community – snooker room, function rooms and health and wellness centre, all surrounded by the beautiful water views of the Norwest precinct.

And sisters Marilyn Bright and Lee Jones, who have bought adjacent apartments, couldn’t

agree more.

“I just love this location.

It is so close even from where we were – we can still do everything in our surrounds, it’s just wonderful,” Ms Bright said.

“It was a very easy decision for me to make,” Ms Jones added.

The sisters may quickly find they have more neighbours soon.

“Aveo Bella Vista has been well received with more than 750 inquiries to date, predominantly from local retirees in the Hills Shire, Blacktown and Hornsby regions who are considering their next move,” Mr Grady said.

Aveo Bella Vista’s sales office is located at Shop 25 of Circa Retail Shopping Complex on the corner of Norbrik Drive and Circa Blvd, Bella Vista.

For more on Aveo Bella Vista, go to aveo.com.au/ bellavista or phone 13 28 36.

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SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018

Put a taste of exotica on your list Congratulations to our Winners

Congratulations to the winners of our June Andre Rieu Giveaway.

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AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS

Bait a hook here: A line to top 10 of the world’s fishing spots Try your fishing skills in very unusual locations.

1. SALMON: UMBA RIVER, KOLA PENINSULA, RUSSIA

Aurora borealis, reindeer herds, snow: Russia’s Kola Peninsula is a winter wonderland beyond compare. But come spring, this Arctic eden morphs into a different kind of paradise: salmon heaven. Each May, fisher-folk flock to the Kola’s 123km-long Umba River to cast for some of the finest, fattest Atlantic salmon on earth.

The Umba is believed to have up to five salmon runs a year, making for an almost endless flow of fish. But nothing comes easy here: the Umba is isolated, the wading tough going, and anglers have to share their space with the greatest fish fans of them all: bears.

The season is May to the end of October, catch-and-release only.

For more information, go to murman.ru/guide/

tourism/fishing-eng.html.

2. GIANT BLACK MARLIN: CAIRNS, AUSTRALIA

On Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, anyone with a snorkelling mask can find Nemo. But it takes a tough cookie to land a legend. The giant black marlin is one of the most coveted catches on the planet: weighing up to 750kg and able to swim up to 130km an hour, it has the ability to turn hardened game fishers (and, after several hours in battle, their wrists) to jelly. The stunning 250km stretch between Cairns and Lizard Island is the best place on earth to hook one: more giant black marlin are caught in these waters than in the rest of the world combined.

The season runs from early September to late December. For more information go to cairnsbluewatergfc.com.au.

3. CATFISH: SOUTHERN USA

Y’all hungry? Git noodlin’! Also known as cat-daddling, gurgling and hillbilly hand-fishing,

noodling is the not-exactly refined art of shoving your hand into an underwater hole, waiting until you get bitten by a flathead catfish and wrestling the thrashing “mudcat” to the surface. Noodling has its drawbacks (catfish have a lot of teeth, and you never know what is lurking in that hole) but the sport isn’t just for masochistic kicks: Native Americans were highly skilled hand fishers, and in many southern states, the practice has become a much-valued tradition passed down over generations. Solo noodling is a no-no; an online search will bring up plenty of expeditions for the wannabe cat-daddler.

It’s legal in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma.

South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin.

The season runs from May to August.

4. TAIMEN: EG-UUR RIVER BASIN, MONGOLIA

Think Mongolia, and it’s yaks, nomads and exceptionally salty tea

ASIAN FISHING: Experience the serenity of evening fishing for squid on Halong Bay in Vietnam.

Photo: katoosha

ICE FISHING: Join in the annual competition at the Brainerd Jaycees $150,000 Ice Fishing Extravaganza.

Photo: Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing

that probably spring to mind. But this remote central Asian outpost – more famous for steppes than streams – is one of the last remaining havens for the world’s largest trout species, the taimen.

A fierce, cannibalistic monster (they’re known locally as “river wolves”),

BE-AR-WARE: Watch out for the bears when salmon fishing in Russia.

taimen can grow up to 2m and smash the scales at 90kg; fishing for these whoppers is not for the faint of heart or the feeble of arm. The fish can live for up to 50 years, giving determined taimen trollers a lifetime to land the perfect beast.

Catch-and-release of

Photo: MaharaMK

taimen is strictly enforced.

The season is June to November.

5. PIRANHA: AMAZON BASIN, BRAZIL

It can happen to anyone: a few enjoyable hours watching piranha

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WHETHER it’s pinning down piranha, battling black marlin or shrimping on horseback, fishing offers holiday fun and local insight. Not to mention dinner.

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SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018 Brazilian state of Amazonia, and join one of the many tours that offer piranha fishing (and in some cases, eating).

A hunk of meat lands them by the dozen, but their razor teeth can cut through steel hooks as well as fingers. Exercise caution: in this fishing story, the only one that gets away should be you.

July to October is the dry season in the Amazon and a dangerous time for piranha fishing as the fish are hungry and aggressive. Tours can be organised through www.ariautowers.com.

6. SHRIMP: OOSTDUINKERKE, BELGIUM

‘‘

Exercise caution: in this fishing story, the only one that gets away should be you.

B-movies, and then bam!

Aquaphobia! Since swimming is now off, why not spend your spare time

fishing for the demons that turned you into a neurotic mess? Head to Manaus, capital of the

If you find rubbernecking an irresistible pastime, head to Oostduinkerke, on Belgium’s southwest coast, where prawn fishermen – paardenvissers in Flemish – use not shrimpers but sturdy stallions to harvest the North Sea’s fruits de mer.

For the last 500 years, the fishermen have galloped into the sea on horseback, their steeds dragging nets and a wooden carriage (to scare the shrimp to the surface) through cold, crashing waves in a tradition recently recognised by Unesco as being of

“intangible cultural heritage”. This four-legged fishing is best left to the experts, but lucky visitors can score a ride in the shrimp-scaring rig.

The seasons are February to May and September to November.

For more informaiton, go to visitor.koksijde.be.

7. GOLIATH TIGERFISH: CONGO RIVER BASIN

For an adrenaline rush that really will send you reeling, head to the Congo to hunt down the goliath tigerfish, a terrifyingly toothy brute with a temper just as sharp. Africa’s equivalent of the piranha, this aggressive predator has a history of attacking humans, and has been known to maul birds in flight. Growing up to 1.5m and weighing in at 70kg-plus, the mbenga (as it’s known locally) is no easy catch: dangerous day-long battles have made it one of the world’s greatest sports fishing challenges.

The best time is catch one is during the Congo’s dry season, June to October.

8. ICE FISHING: BRAINERD, USA

Do you like to dig holes in ice and stare into them for a long time? Then the

central-Minnesota town of Brainerd is your dream destination. The annual Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza is the largest of its kind in the world, attracting more than 12,000 hopefuls keen on the cold… and on hooking themselves a cool $US150,000 worth of prizes. Organisers pre-drill 20,000 holes into the thankfully very well-frozen Gull Lake, from which (d)anglers pull up walleye, perch and bass.

Go to icefishing.org for details on the Ice Fishing Extravaganza held each January.

9. SQUID: HALONG BAY, VIETNAM

The word squid mightn’t conjure up the warm-andfuzzies right now, but after a night on Halong Bay, that will change. Dozens of junks ply the bay’s jade-green waters on moonless evenings, fishing for the slippery little cephalopods that go into the region’s bestknown speciality: squid sausages. With only a bamboo rod, a catch net and a lamp to attract the squid to the surface, anyone can hook themselves an impressive 30-plus squid in just a couple of hours. The stillness of the bay dotted by the dreamy reflection of

the lamps makes for a contemplative, romantic evening.

The season begins in April and runs through until January. The biggest squid are caught between October and November.

10. BROWN TROUT: RIO GRANDE, TIERRA DEL FUEGO

Tierra del Fuego is Spanish for “Land of Fire” and au fait fly-fishers couldn’t agree more: when it comes to trout, this place is hot. The archipelago boasts the world’s best sea-run brown trout angling: the minimum average weight of the region’s brown trout is 4kg (one in 50 catches are said to be 11kg or above), and the Rio Grande teems with an estimated 70,000 of the prized fish. Being at the end of the earth, Tierra del Fuego can be hard to get to, but Rio Grande’s mammoth trout statue will let you know you’ve arrived.

Despite the abundance of trout, there are strict fishing restrictions on Tierra del Fuego: catchand-release firmly applies.

The season is from December until mid-April.

Reproduced with permission from www.lonelyplanet.com, author Tamara Sheward.

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AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS

‘‘

welcome to a definitive list of the world’s best journeys

PURE WONDER: Experience by water the Pianemo islands, Raja Ampat, Indonesia.

Photo: MariusLtu

Ultimate top travel list

Selected by international travel experts, these are a selection of the very top travel destinations you should have in your bucket list

IF YOU were wondering what are the best places to visit, then the ultimate bucket travel list is here for your enjoyment.

The World’s Best Journeys list for 2018 has been released and 50 destinations and experiences have been selected by Flight Network and more than 500 top travel journalists, agencies, bloggers and editors.

It’s the ultimate inside guide to diverse and dynamic adventures; for the seasoned traveller and for the ones who want to live life to full for as long as they can travel.

Welcome to the most definitive list of the World’s Best Journeys – a truly inspiring collection of the top 50 transformative trips every traveller must experience in their lifetime. This inspiring resource is an unparalleled guide to diverse and dynamic adventures with exhilarating activities in

the most stunning, mystical, and culturally rich lands on the planet.

We start from the bottom of the list and will work our way over the coming months. This month it’s 50 to 46.

Hold on to your seat while we take off on a fabulous journey Asia, Africa, South and North America.

SAIL THROUGH THE RAJA AMPAT ARCHIPELAGO

Sail through one of the most mesmerizing regions in Indonesia, the Raja Ampat Archipelago, an astonishing collection of 600 islands. These isles remain largely untouched by the modern world and feature vibrant jungles, satiny white beaches, blue waters with almost endless visibility, and a rich tapestry of Indonesian culture.

Climb aboard your boutique ship in Sorong and sail to Kri Island where you can start your

vacation off right with a snorkel atop the rainbow of coral reefs and gentle stroll along the immaculate beach. Then hike on Gam Island, home to the famous Red Bird-of-paradise, before sailing to the Wayag Islands and exploring caves, lagoons, and narrow inlets.

Mix with the locals in Deer and exotic wildlife in Boo Kecil lagoon, then indulge in the gorgeous landscapes of forests and rolling hills on Misool.

Take advantage of your relaxing transportation as you cruise by the alluring shores of the Farondi Islands, then say yes to more snorkelling and beach-chilling on the Kalig and Fiabacet Islands.

Finish your trip with the colourful marine life on Kepulauan Penyu, and friendly locals on Markhesa Bay. Getting there: Fly into Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. From Jakarta, catch the daily

non-stop flight to Domine Eduard Osok Airport in Sorong.

MOTORCYCLING MADAGASCAR COAST TO COAST

Madagascar’s difficult road system makes motorcycle touring an excellent choice for navigating the different terrain and having intimate views of volcanoes, the rainforest and the Malagasy people.

This bold motorcycle journey begins in the capital Antananarivo, where you set out to Ampefy passing the Itasy region’s lakes, waterfalls and volcanoes. After a night’s rest, you’ll ride to Antsirabe along rice paddies and quaint villages.

The next leg takes riders to Ambohimahasoa, passing lakes of Andraikiba and Tritiva before resting at Lemur Forest Camp. The road to Manakara leads to the coast through the

rainforest. Enjoy a canoe trip before riding toward Mananjary in the Indian Ocean rim and head to Ranomafana to see the best park on the island.

Riding to the Deep South, you’ll pass rock formations near Fianarantsoa before arriving in the vineyard region of Ambalavao.

Continuing south from Ambalavao to Ranohira, riders pass the Anja reserve for a glimpse of ringtail lemurs. Bikers can spend a day exploring canyons and riding along sandstone formations of Isalo National Park.

Heading down between Ranohira and Ifaty, riders can take a break in Ifaty’s beach village and check out baobab trees before catching the flight back to Antananarivo the next day.

Getting there: Flights arrive into Ivato Airport, 20km north of Antananarivo. It’s best to take a charter taxi due to the challenging road conditions. Less than

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SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018

Sunset in the famous Avenida de Baobab near Morondava in Madagascar.

Photo: pawopa3336

Ride the Death Road of Bolivia.

NATURE’S PARADISE: chameleon.

Drive the Sea to Sky Highway, British Columbia.

Follow the vast Wildebeest migration in Tanzania.

region to begin breeding season.

Getting there: Several mobile tented camp companies are available to accommodate patrons.

Arrive by flying into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi and transfer to Wilson Airport for domestic flights into Tanzania. Another option is to fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam and make your way to Tanzania’s northern safari destinations by using charter flights out of nearby Arusha Airport.

tour company. Minibuses and GoTransTur buses take travelers into La Paz. Minibuses travel to Avenida 16 de Julio, La Paz’s main street and Plaza Isabel La Catolica where several hotels and inns are located.

A

Madagascan

panther

Photo: belizar73

to tickle the senses 20 per cent of the roads in Madagascar are sealed, leaving the remainder riddled with massive potholes so it’s wise to have a local driver take you to Antananarivo.

During the rainy season many of the country’s routes are impassable and a local driver would know the appropriate detours. Motorcycles can be leased in many places in Madagascar, including Nosy Be, Tulear, and Ile Sainte Marie.

FOLLOW THE WILDEBEEST MIGRATION IN TANZANIA

As migratory river crossings go, the great wildebeest migration in Tanzania is the most dramatic. Rain-swollen and deep, the river tests the wild herds plunging into its murky, crocodile infested waters as they rush to the other side.

Navigating the river’s steep cliffs and fierce currents, they undergo

their frenzied migration through the Serengeti National Park to rich grasslands of the park’s southern region of the Ndutu area of the Ngorongoro Conservation.

Following the migration, the safari begins by jeep in the western region of the park near the Grumeti River, where wildebeest move past zebras, elands and gazelles who inhabit this corridor. Not only do wildebeests have to survive the river crossing, the region is home to predators like lions, cheetah, leopards and hyenas. Pressing on to the eastern section of the Serengeti, wildebeests cover the valleys following long rains, pouring through the narrow route toward the Angata Kiti pastures.

The safari bears witness to the wildebeest’s annual preservation quest when the animals reach precious grazing land in the Serengeti’s southern

RIDE THE DEATH ROAD OF BOLIVIA

Featuring cross markings where many have fallen, the Death Road of Bolivia attracts thrill-seeking cyclists from around the globe each year. A road surrounded by mountainous terrain and terrifying cliffs connecting Bolivia to the capital city, guides lead bikers on the journey with a 4650m ascent

from La Paz to La Cumbe Pass.

Crossing snow-covered mountain peaks, villages, and wildlife like alpacas and llamas, cyclists reaching the top must shift to a treacherous descent of 1100m on a slim, dirt road to wheel into the lush jungle of the Amazon below. Cyclists ride through the spray of nearby waterfalls before reaching the bottom in Yolosa. Outside of Yolosa, riders rest at La Senda Verde Animal Refuge to eat and take a swim in the pool. And, if you still have energy to expend, try Bolivia’s exhilarating zip line, Zzip the Flying Fox, before heading back to La Paz. Getting there: Arrive by flying into El Alto International Airport in Bolivia or through Cusco, Peru and Arica, Chile. Just 25 minutes from the center of La Paz, an airport taxi will get you to the city where you can coordinate with your bike

DRIVE THE SEA TO SKY HIGHWAY, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Curving along cool waters of the Pacific, the Sea to Summit Highway snakes north from Vancouver for 120km before reaching the resort town of Whistler in the Coast Mountains and it’s a drive of a lifetime.

Leave from Vancouver and drive to Lynn Canyon to walk the 50 metre-high suspension bridge at Lynn Canyon Park. Hop in the car and steer west towards Shannon Falls and see massive falls flowing an impressive 335m down the Howe Sound.

Drive to Stawamus

Chief Provincial Park for a hike to stretch your legs.

For a unique vantage point, take the Sea to Sky Gondola 900m up the side of Mount Habrich.

Get a bird’s eye view of the coastal mountains boarding a charter flight above Garibaldi Provincial Park. Continue your journey with a walk around one of the three lakes at Alice Lake Provincial Park.

North of Garibaldi, Brandywine Falls Provincial Park features magnificent falls to ponder from a viewing deck. After your drive, spend the night in Whistler and hike the Peak to Peak 360 Experience.,.

Getting there: Arriving by air you’ll likely be flying into Vancouver International Airport.

Major car rental companies have desks at the airport. flightnetwork.com/blog /worlds-best-journeys

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AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS

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KNITTERS UNITE

IF YOU’RE a knitter, the Coast’s libraries have you covered. It no longer has to be a solitary pursuit.

Depending on where you live and your time available, you could choose Knitwits Knitting Group which meets monthly 9-10am on the first Friday of the month at Tuggerah Library. Phone (02) 4350 1560. Or there’s Umina Library Knitters, who meet every Monday and Thursday 10-11am and morning tea is provided. Phone (02) 4304 7333. And if you’re in the Lake Haven area, head along to Wild Woolies Knitting Group every second Saturday from 10-11am. Phone (02) 4350 1570.

COAST OPERA

THE Coast’s professional opera company, Coast Opera Australia, is making its historic debut on Saturday, September 1.

Artistic director Angela Brewer said the special event would feature four internationally acclaimed opera singers, and a full 40-piece orchestra. An Exquisite Night of Musical Brilliance will be hosted by ABC’s Linda Mottram and headlined by baritone Jose Carbo, who debuted at La Scala in 2009 and just toured with Sumi-Jo

and Guy Noble. It also stars mezzo-soprano Sally-Anne Russell, who is returning from European performances, as well as two top emerging stars.

The principal ensemble will be composed of local emerging artists. It starts at Central Coast Leagues Club’s Parkview Room at 7.30pm for the concert at 8pm. Tickets from $75.

Phone (02) 4325 9888 or go to trybooking.com.

COMEDY

WOMEN Like Us is the creation of comedians Mandy Nolan and Ellen Briggs – middle-aged women, mothers and country girls, telling it like it is. They are bringing their show to Davistown RSL on Friday, September 7 and Mingara Recreation Club on Saturday, September 8. Their stories of motherhood, marriage, break-ups and breakdowns, getting older, the beauty industry and various obsessions, are the stuff of real life and totally relatable for women who are overworked, overtired and just over it. Go to womenlikeus.com.au or phone the venues. Tickets cost $35.

IAN MOSS

IAN Moss promises to get “solo, acoustic and intimate” with us at the

WHAT’S ON Art House Wyong on Friday, September 7. The former Cold Chisel guitarist is respected in his own right as a musician and has this year released his sixth album, a self-titled studio recording. Tickets cost $60. Go to thearthouse wyong.com.au or phone (02) 4335 1485.

MICHAEL JACKSON

THE Legacy Tour tribute to Michael Jackson comes to Ettalong Diggers on Saturday, September 8 and the Art House Wyong on October 12. The show was produced and endorsed by previous members of Michael Jackson’s crew and takes you through his artistic life. The dance moves, live band and light show stars William Hall and has toured the world. Tickets range from $54-$65.

Phone Diggers on (02) 4343 0111 or the Art House on (02) 4335 1485.

ADVENTUROUS WOMEN

WHETHER you are adventurous yourself, or just like seeing what others can do, the Women’s Adventure Film Tour Volume 2 celebrates the extraordinary things women are doing in the name of adventure. It’s a

35

What's on

OPERATIC DELIGHT: You don’t have to go to Sydney to hear world-class opera, with the central coast’s own company, Coast Opera Australia, in its debut concert on Saturday, September 1, featuring four internationally acclaimed singers and a full 40-piece orchestra. new set of short films focusing on adventure, the environment and heart-warming stories and is coming to the Majestic Cinemas, The Entrance on Wednesday, September 12. Cost is $25. Phone the cinema on (02) 4332 6566 or go to womensadventure filmtour.com.

PLANT FAIR

THE annual Plant Lovers Fair is returning to Kariong Mountains High School on the weekend of September 22 and 23, and promises to be “brimming with wonderful, hard-to-find, rare and unusual plants, not generally available in nurseries or garden centres”. The fair features

more than 40 exhibitors with everything you need from ornamental to food gardens, trees, shrubs and ground covers, succulents, perennials, natives to herbs and bulbs, plus quality garden products, talks and workshops. ABC’s Gardening Australia host Costa Georgiadis is again ambassador, so look out for him in the main marquee as well as chatting around the venue. Entry is $14 adults ($12 online). It will be held from 8am-4pm Saturday and 9am-3pm Sunday. Go to plantloversfair.com.au.

RICHARD FIDLER

RICHARD Fidler’s Conversations has become one of Australia’s

most-loved radio programs and you can hear him talking about his work with fellow ABC host James Valentine at The Art House, Wyong on Saturday, September 22.

Fidler has interviewed prime ministers, astronauts, writers and scientists, as well as remarkable people you may not otherwise have heard of, always presenting an inside look at that person. Tickets are $39. Phone (02) 4335 1485 or go to thearthousewyong.com. au.

TOUKLEY MARKETS

IT SEEMS we can never get enough markets in the hunt for a bargain, so find out what Toukley has to offer every Sunday from 7am-1pm. There are more than 70 different stalls including fashion, food, craft, pet treats, plants and tools. The markets been running for more than 30 years and are held in the Coles carpark.

To find out more go to greatertoukley.org.au or phone (02) 4397 1711.

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AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS

Accounting help

Money

James Gerrard

TOP TIP: The difference between having an average accountant versus an exceptional one should not be underestimated. Photo: Martin Prescott require three years’ industry experience, passing an in-depth curriculum and undertaking an intensive mentoring program.

Contrast this to the minimum requirement of becoming a registered tax agent; an accounting diploma and two years’ relevant experience.

■ There has been pressure on accounting fees over the past five years as more digital and outsourced accounting firms appear. Ask your accountant if they offshore any aspect of your taxation work. If so, ask what controls and measures they have in place to protect your information.

■ Ask what the accountant’s lodgement rate is with the ATO. If an accountant does not lodge at least 85 per cent of all statements and tax returns on time, the ATO can remove their lodgement extension concession.

■ Be wary of the high fees charged by instant tax refund firms. Although you will get your tax refund on the spot, they will usually charge a percentage of your refund in fees in addition to your normal tax return costs.

Avoid tax refund rush If you’re due for a refund on your tax return, get it done once the accountant has received all the data in a pre-filling

report, which may be later in July or even August depending on the data sources feeding in.

If you have additional tax to pay, delay lodgement until closer to the due date, which is October 31 for individuals, or May 15 if you use an accountant, but only if the accountant has a good lodgement history and has the lodgement extension concession.

As you can see, it pays to is be patient and not to get your tax return done at the start of July.

“The first mistake accountants and clients make is to lodge the tax return too early.

Accountants receive information from the

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Australian Taxation Office in what’s known as a pre-filling report,” Mr Ricardo said.

“The report contains information compiled from various sources on things like bank account interest, share dividends and investment distributions.

“The data can be automatically imported into the accountant’s tax return software.

“However; the issue is that it takes time for this data to flow through.

“For those eager to lodge their tax returns early, the accountant must manually input data provided by the client... and if it does not match the eventual data that

appears in the pre-filling report, the chance of getting audited go up exponentially.”

The difference between having an average accountant versus an exceptional one should not be underestimated.

Not only will it potentially result in better tax outcomes, but you will enjoy less stress and hassle.

The good accountant will be on top of things, making the tax process as painless as it can be from start to finish.

James Gerrard is the principal and director of the Sydney financial planning firm: FinancialAdvisor.com.au

Aged care financial advisers you can trust

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THERE is so much attention paid to choosing advisers but very little paid to choosing accountants.

If you don’t have an accountant or are considering changing accountants this year, there are a few things to consider.

Where you may have started years ago solely dealing with your accountant, you may find you’re now primarily dealing with an underling with only the occasional interaction with your beloved accountant.

So make sure your accountant has capacity to take on your work, and has good processes and systems in place so you won’t be pushed off to someone else at a later stage.

Ask how many clients they have.

Timothy Ricardo, certified practising accountant with Ricardo Accounting, said there’s a small trick that usually works to get your accountant to personally do your tax return.

“It’s simple: book the appointment and physically go in to your accountant’s office to do your tax return,” Mr Ricardo said.

“If not, the chances are much higher that it will be done by a junior. Even if it costs more, it’s usually worth the expense to get in front of the senior accountant to prepare your tax return.”

The main checks are: ■ Is your accountant a certified practising accountant or chartered accountant?

To become a CPA or CA, in addition to an accounting degree you

• Planning your financial strategy for a transition to home care, retirement villages or residential care • Estate and taxation planning

TBA Financial Services Pty Ltd (ABN 46 002 163 886), t/as TBA Aged Care Financial Advisers is an authorised representative and credit representative of AMP Financial Planning Pty Limited, Australia Financial Services Licensee and Australian Credit Licensee.

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018

MONEY

37

You can shop around for the best deal on super Tony Kaye THE Productivity Commission and the banking Royal Commission have both focused on the distinct lack of transparency in many areas of the financial industry.

The $1.2 trillion managed funds sector, where so many retirees have their funds invested, often on the recommendation of their financial adviser, is one of those areas where transparency is distinctly lacking in terms of fees disclosure.

If you don’t know what you are paying in fees, if you have your capital invested in a managed fund, it’s definitely time to find out.

Research conducted by InvestSMART using data

from investment research group Morningstar shows that, at May 2018, out of about 5300 Australian managed funds that have a 10-year investment history, 76 per cent had underperformed their industry standard benchmark by an average of 1.75 per cent per annum.

What’s staggering is that there is currently about $330 billion of investors’ capital sitting in these under-performing funds alone, which are charging average fees of 1.73 per cent per annum.

While average management fees on some investment products have been falling in recent times, many investors in managed funds are often paying higher fees than those in other funds largely providing the same investment exposures.

What’s worse is that the highest management fees being charged are by the

actively managed investment funds whose primary mandate is to outperform against their market benchmark.

In most cases, they haven’t.

Fees can be controlled The most important dimension to the managed funds fees issue is investor apathy.

Many Australian investors are paying the ultimate financial price by choosing to keep their capital in under-performing managed funds instead of shopping around for better alternatives.

While it’s impossible to predict the future performance of a particular fund, what most investors are ignoring is that the amount of fees they are paying paid can be controlled by switching into funds that, by virtue of charging lower management fees, will outperform their competitors. Some will outperform their set

benchmarks in different years, but over longer periods they probably won’t.

But the key is to choose funds that offer the same or similar investment exposure, such as to Australian large cap or mid cap stocks, or to global markets, and that charge lower management fees.

Comparing funds The easiest way for investors to compare between different funds covering the same investment category is by matching one or more funds to the market benchmark they are measuring their performance against.

InvestSMART has just released an industry-first tool, Compare Your Fund (investsmart.com.au/ compare-your-fund), which allows investors to compare the fees and performance of nearly 9000 Australian investment funds online.

The free-to-access tool can analyse the performance of managed funds, super funds and pension funds against peers and industry standard benchmarks, and also allows investors to assess fund fees against comparable funds.

InvestSMART’s funds research is telling. It shows that 96 per cent of managed funds in the multi-sector moderate category have underperformed the benchmark Morningstar Aus Msec Moderate Total Return AUD comparison index over the last 10 years by an average of 1.54 per cent per annum, and are charging average annual fees of 1.58 per cent.

Similarly, 92 per cent of funds in the multi-sector growth category have underperformed the Morningstar Aus Msec Growth Total Return AUD comparison index over

10 years by an average of 1.62 per cent, and are charging average fees of 1.69 per cent.

The story doesn’t change across other fund categories, except that the total percentage of under-performing funds does reduce.

It’s evident to most investors that the amount of fees paid will have a direct impact on returns over time.

Yet this becomes even more stark when an investment is left in an under-performing fund over a long time.

The key message for investors is not to stay in under-performing managed funds.

They are costing you better returns.

Look around and shop around.

Tony Kaye is the editor of Eureka Report, which is owned by listed financial services company InvestSMART. Go to investsmart.com.au.

Keep up to date with bequest limitations and challenges WILLS and estate planning lawyer Dylan Heffernan, of law firm McCabes, works through what are some of the limitations with giving bequests.

Charity limitations Conditional bequests to charities are possible, but there are practical limitations.

“If a client was looking to give an amount to a charity but wanted that amount to applied to particular project, we would generally recommend specify that as a wish,” Mr Heffernan

said.

“You might say, for example, ‘I give $… to RSPCA Australia and I express a sincere wish that this amount is applied to finding homes for dogs that are rescued from puppy farms’.”

When you die and that project no longer exists, the bequest can still go to the specified charity and it will apply the funds as it sees fit.

Once the bequest is received, there are no obligations for the charity to carry out any actions for the donor’s estate.

Most of them will however issue a receipt or letter of thanks to the donor estate.

Other organisations You can also give your assets to a non-charitable, private organisation as the people who will benefit from the bequest will be the shareholders.

Challenges to gifts Family members may be able to challenge a testator’s bequest decision if it can be proven that the testator didn’t approve the contents of their will.

Leave the legacy of a cancer-free future for children Consider leaving a gift in your will to The Kids’ Cancer Project, a charity dedicated to funding childhood cancer research.

Visit thekidscancerproject.org.au/giftinwill to learn more or phone Veena Singh in confidence on 02 8394 7715.

Complete the form to learn how your will can help the littlest cancer patients.

Post to (no stamp required): The Kids’ Cancer Project REPLY PAID 6400 ALEXANDRIA NSW 2015

Title:

Name:

Address: State:

Send me more information

Telephone:

Request a call from Veena

Email:

thekidscancerproject.org.au/giftinwill

Postcode:

Another area of challenge may be where a testator leaves all or a large part of his or her estate to a charity and doesn’t leave anything in their will for persons that they have duty to provide for under the will.

If you give a bequest to “natural person” who has died before your estate is settled, the gift will fail.

The exception is in NSW where the intended beneficiary is a direct descendent of the deceased and leaves surviving children. In that case the children of the

intended beneficiary will share the gift.

Executors discretion It may be that at the time of your death the charity you have nominated no longer exists or at the time you are drawing up your will you can’t decide which charity you want to support.

“If a client wishes to make a bequest to a particular charity under their will, we would generally recommend that they also give their executors direction to give the amount to some

other charity that has a similar purpose in circumstances where the intended charity no longer exists or for some other reason it is not possible to pay out the gift,” Mr Heffernan said.

Keep your will up to date As over time your decision of who should receive a bequest can change you should review your estate planning every three to four years if you are still working, whenever a significant life occurrence happens and if retired, every two or less years.

38

CLASSIFIEDS

AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS

At home

Tomato relish

Gardening gloves at the ready Yates Gardening News AS SPRING approaches it’s a good time to finish off your winter gardening jobs with the planting of lots of vibrant winter colour and delicious fruit and vegies.

Here are some suggested plantings from Yates horticultural consultant Angie Thomas.

Mangoes - They grow best in warm temperate to tropical climates, though some varieties will tolerate cooler locations in a warm and frost protected spot.

Dwarf varieties are perfect for growing in a backyard. They do best in moist, but well drained soil. They can be planted in late winter in tropical zones and during spring (after any chance of frost has passed) in temperate areas.

Navel Oranges - There are a few varieties of navel oranges and different varieties ripen during different months, predominantly in winter and spring.

Washington Navel oranges are sweet, juicy, easy to peel and seedless and make a fantastic citrus to grow at

home. Dwarf varieties of navels grow to around 1.5m tall, so they’re easy to maintain (and you don’t need a ladder to harvest) as well as being perfect for growing in a container.

To get the best out of home grown navel oranges, find a sunny spot that receives at least six hours of sunshine a day with well drained soil. Navel oranges prefer growing in a temperate or sub-tropical climate, though will also handle cooler locations.

If you’re growing a navel orange in a container, choose a dwarf variety, use a pot that’s at least 40cm in diameter and fill with good quality potting mix like Yates Premium Potting Mix. Strawberries - If you love sweet fresh strawberries or enjoy a strawberry cheesecake, pavlova or trifles, it’s time to grow this delicious fruit at your place.

KEEP this delicious tomato relish in the fridge to add flavour to Aussies pies, hotdogs and burgers.

Strawberry crowns, runners or potted strawberries can be planted during August.

Find a sunny, well drained spot in the garden and mix some Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser into the soil which will help improve the soil quality and provide gentle organic nutrients to the strawberry plants as they establish. Strawberries are also perfect for growing in pots, hanging baskets, special strawberry pots and troughs.

Keep the new strawberry plants well watered as they settle in and once new growth emerges, start feeding each week with a complete plant food Camellia - Whether your sasanquas have finished flowering or your japonicas are about to burst forth into beautiful bloom, August is an ideal time to give camellias a good feed. This can help

Roasted strawberry crumble ENJOY the sweeter side of life with this utterly irresistible and speedy strawberry dessert.

METHOD Step 1 ■ Preheat oven to 220C/200C fan-forced.

■ Lightly grease a 16cm x 26cm shallow roasting pan.

■ Add strawberries and half the sugar.

■ Toss to coat.

Step 2 ■ Combine flour and remaining sugar in a medium bowl.

■ Add butter.

■ Using fingertips, rub

butter into flour mixture until mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

■ Add almonds.

■ Stir to combine.

■ Sprinkle over strawberry mixture, pressing dough together with fingers to make small lumps.

Step 3 ■ Bake for 15 minutes or until top is golden and crisp.

■ Serve with vanilla custard.

INGREDIENTS ■ 375g strawberries, hulled, halved.

■ 2 tablespoons caster sugar.

■ 1/2 cup plain flour.

■ 35g butter.

■ 2 tablespoons flaked almonds.

■ Vanilla custard, to serve

Preparation time - 10 minutes Cooking time - 15 minutes Serves - 4

WINTER COOKING: Tasty and easy to make strawberry crumble.

Photo: Manuta

them replenish their reserves after busy weeks of flowering or nurture them while they flower and also help set them up for a fantastic spring of fresh leaf growth. If you need to prune camellias, prune just after flowering has finished. Pruning later than this can lead to reduced flowers next season.

ROMA TOMATOES

Tomatoes are still popular to grow at home.

There’s nothing quite like picking a warm, sun-ripened tomato from your own backyard or balcony, and enjoying their succulent flavour.

Yates Roma Tomato are ideal for cooking, bottling, sauce making and sun drying but are also perfect eaten fresh in salads.

This plant don’t need staking and can be grown in either a garden bed or pots, so they’re great for small space gardeners.

They do best in a warm

position that receives at least six hours of sunshine a day.

Tropical, sub-tropical and temperate zone gardeners can sow Roma tomato seeds now. If there’s a chance of frost, sow seed in punnets or small pots, keep them on a warm windowsill and then transplant out when the seedlings are 5–7 cm high. For cool climate gardeners, delay sowing until spring, once the chance of frost has passed.

Before planting, enrich the soil with some Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser. Once the seedlings are established, feed tomato plants each week with Yates Thrive Tomato Liquid Plant Food which has been specially developed to promote healthy leaf growth and lots of flowers and fruit.

For more information, go to yates.com.auROMA.

METHOD Step 1 ■ Place the tomato and onion in a bowl.

■ Cover with salt and stand overnight at room temperature.

Step 2 ■ The next day, drain any liquid, then place tomato mixture in a pan with 1 cup (250ml) vinegar.

■ Bring to the boil, then reduce heat to low.

■ Simmer for 30 minutes.

Add sugar and chilli, then simmer, stirring occasionally, for 1 hour.

Step 3 ■ Mix flour, curry and mustard powders with remaining 1 cup (250ml) vinegar, then add to pan.

■ Cook for 3-4 minutes until thickened.

■ Pour hot relish into sterilised jars.

INGREDIENTS ■ 1.5kg vine-ripened tomatoes, peeled (see notes), chopped.

■ 4 onions, chopped.

■ 1 tablespoon salt.

■ 2 cups (500ml) malt vinegar.

■ 2 firmly packed cups (500g) brown sugar.

■ 1 teaspoon chilli powder.

■ 2 tablespoons plain flour.

■ 1 tablespoon curry powder.

■ 1 tablespoon mustard powder.

Cooking time - 1 hour, 40 minutes Serves - 3 cups

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018

PUZZLES

T A E E V

I

M A S C H

M A R K H E A

21

TRIO

23

SUDOKU

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

6 LETTERS DREDGE HEDGED RETARD WRETCH 7 LETTERS AGITATE ALARMED CHORALE CLEARER LEARNED MODULAR RATIONS TANGELO

T O D A Y

4 LETTERS DUEL DUPE EACH EDIT EYES HERE MOOR ROAM RUDE SMOG

5 LETTERS ABEAM AMBLE AMPLE BELAY CLASS DONOR EMEND ETUDE HONEY KORAN MARCH METRO PLUTO POLAR READS REALM ROGUE SCALD SCENE SOLED STRUT

SWARD UMBRA WHELP

T H I C K

Solution opposite

TICS YAKS

D A R E

Fit the words into the grid to create a nished crossword

3 LETTERS ART ASP ERR GAG ICE LAD MOM MOW RID SEE SOD TUT

H

WORDFIT

E

Good 13 Very Good 15 Excellent 18+

E N A R E T H A L T E O M B L E L T T E U R

I T

N S I S T M P A D E L R O G L U E A G T A L E N E Y B M M A R A P K J H E A O D E U R R N T O R T

574

S W A P I A I R O R S E H I R S R I S I S O T E A R M A T R E V O A X I S L I P L A R P L C R O M A R S C A A T H T

TODAY

G

H P

S H O E L A C E

O S

T L

SOWED EARNED FEEDING TREADING OH NO MONEY

WORD GO ROUND

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

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, e.g. he burns with anger.

22

Can you complete these four words, using the same three-letter sequence in each?

ALPHAGRAMS

WORD GO ROUND

19

20

ghost gilt gist glop glops glottis gosh hogs light lights logs pigs plight plights sigh sight slight slog spigot SPOTLIGHT tight

X

18

QUIZ 1. “Dead horse” is Australian rhyming slang for what foodstuff?

2. Two Danish words meaning “play well” were combined in the name of which toy?

3. What is the name of Sherlock Holmes’ housekeeper?

4. Which Bond film produced a hit for Sheena Easton?

5. In a song, who stuck a feather in his cap and called it macaroni?

6. Where was revolutionary Che Guevara born: Mexico, Cuba or Argentina?

7. What name is often given to a golf course next to the sea?

8. Sofia is the capital of which Eastern European country?

QUIZ

R U D E

I R C R I K O

17

L E A R N E D

T E U R E

16

C H O R A L E

L G L E A

15

W R E T C H

B L E E L T H

S

X

A P I S E H

14

E T A R D D U L A R I T A T E T R I D S MO G S C E N E E A D S E L D U P E Y MOM A M B L E K O R A N SW A R D

A R

13

R O G U E

M

12

M A T R I C C H S D S O O N L O E R D

S W O I T A E A R H O R L P

11

L E A Y D E S R E A A S L P M H G E A R G E

R O U E G

10

P L U T O

C O D A R T T

9

M E T R O

A R O C R E A T

8

A B E A M

E U R N O R T

7

WORDFIT

E N T A O R E D

S T P A

S H O A

6

1. Tomato sauce, 2. Lego, 3. Mrs Hudson, 4. For Your Eyes Only, 5. Yankee Doodle, 6. Argentina, 7. Links, 8.

Bulgaria.

S

S T

A R

5

QUICK CROSSWORD

I M L A P J

I

S L P L

4

Across: 1. Tacticians 7. Mamba 8. Leonine 10. Sedative 11.

Thee 13. Adapts 15. Turret 17. Imps 18. Seafarer 21. Shifted 22. Argot 23. Mechanised.

Down: 1. Timid 2. Chastity 3. In love 4. Idol 5. Neither 6.

Emissaries 9. Electorate 12. Ruffians 14. Apprise 16. Deaden 19. Rigid 20. Etch.

L E N Y B

T

T E D O A M R

3

JIGGERED

I N S R M I D E

Down 1. Lacking selfcon dence (5) 2. Celibacy (8) 3. Smitten (2,4) 4. False god (4) 5. Not one or the other (7) 6. Envoys (10) 9. Voting district (10) 12. Hooligans (8) 14. Advise (7) 16. Mu e (6) 19. Sti (5) 20. Engrave (4)

2

TRIO: POR

T A H A Y L

Across 1. Strategists (10) 7. Type of snake (5) 8. Lion-like (7) 10. Tranquilliser (8) 11. You (archaic) (4) 13. Alters (6) 15. Small tower (6) 17. Rascals (4) 18. Mariner (8) 21. Moved (7) 22. Jargon or slang (5) 23. Done by machinery (10)

1

SUDOKU

The challenge is to rearrange a crossword which has been broken into 25 sections. One letter has been given to get you started. Work out which s uare ts in with that letter and write in the letters. ou can also shade the black s uares i you nd it hel ul. ter co leting the rst area work out which s uare oins on to it and continue until you have ade a co lete crossword.

QUICK CROSSWORD

ALPHAGRAMS

27/8

DOWSE, ENDEAR, FEIGNED, GRADIENT, HONEYMOON.

JIGGERED

39

40

CENTRAL COAST

AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS

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OUR AURRUM FAMILY CARING FOR YOUR FAMILY

AURRUM TERRIGAL DRIVE

Call 1800 AURRUM (1800 287 786)

www.aurrum.com.au

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351 Terrigal Dr, Erina NSW 2250 351 Terrigal Dr, Erina NSW 2250 1A Scaysbrook Dr, Kincumber NSW 2251 60 Soldiers Point Dr, Norah Head NSW 2263 80 Chamberlain Rd, Wyoming NSW 2250