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Australia’s much loved comedienne and author Jean Kittson shares her life experience supporting her ageing parents.

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Cover story: Jean Kittson Profile: Kathy Quirk Community Notes Wanderlust Wellbeing Money Living Puzzles

18 COMMUNITY NOTES: Your neighbourhood news.

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Doing life differently Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor LIFE has changed in a heartbeat Some nine weeks ago, I took a month’s holiday leave. I love the rural parts of Bali, the gentle culture, the flowers and rice terraces and it’s one of the places that is always on my agenda when I think of having a break.

However, news had started to circulate about a dangerous virus, its rate of transmission and related quarantine periods. Fortunately I stayed at home.

The decision to stay at home in Australia led me to find some great local places – places that I may well have never visited had I travelled overseas.

Likewise, while I’m at home, I’m endeavouring to do things that would otherwise have passed me by.

For instance, I’m looking forward to playing a few more card games with the family, practising my quiz game

skills and doing online yoga. Who knows, I may even cook up some intricate meals – though that would be a stretch (I relinquished much of my home-cooking skills when the kids left home).

Most of all, I have promised myself to stay calm in this time of chaos and challenges and as an elder in society act as a role model for younger generations.

As Seniors News editor, I look forward to giving you some fine reading material. This month, it’s great to feature the irrepressible and pragmatic Jean Kittson on the front cover. Jean is in good company with a range of other personalities whose meaningful lives, I’m sure, will make inspiring reading.

Take care.

SENIORS

CONTACT US General Manager Geoff Crockett – 07 5430 1006 geoff.crockett@news.com.au Editor Gail Forrer – 07 5435 3203 gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Executive 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 361604 and quote “Brisbane Seniors Newspaper”.

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

The Seniors newspaper stable includes Toowoomba, Wide Bay, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Northern NSW, Coffs and Clarence and Central Coast publications.

Published by News Corp Australia.

Printed by News Corp Australia, Yandina. Opinions expressed by contributors to Seniors Newspapers are not necessarily those of the editor or the owner/publisher and publication of advertisements implies no endorsement by the owner/ publisher.

Responsibility for election material in this paper is taken by Gail Forrer, cnr Mayne Road & Campbell Street, Bowen Hills, QLD 4006.

PROFILE: Kathy Quirk’s inspiring life as a nurse.

Entertainment in your own home TO help keep you interested in the world around us, here’s a list of online activities put together by COTA NSW. Galleries and museums Many of the world’s great galleries and museums are now offering virtual tours through Google Arts and Culture. For example: • The Guggenheim and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

• The Tate, British Museum and Victoria and Albert

Museum in London.

• The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam.

• The Acropolis Museum in Athens.

• The Musee D’orsay, Paris.

• The Uffizi in Florence.

• The Hermitage in St Petersburg.

The collection of institutions available, including Australia’s own National Gallery, National Gallery of Victoria and Art Gallery of NSW, is staggering.

Libraries

Some libraries are also showing their collections on Google Arts and Culture, including the British LIbrary.

You can also take part in building the digital collection of the National Library of Australia by becoming a contributor to Trove. You can contribute photos and add tags for search purposes. Trove is also great for researching family history – it’s amazing what you can find in a 19thcentury newspaper when they

didn’t have so much to write about!

Music Many musical groups are posting concerts and performances online: • Rotterdam Philharmonic playing Beethoven’s 9th.

• Sydney Opera House has a massive free program of online concerts, talks and podcasts.

• Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

There are also some pretty good parodies around:

• One Day More from Les Miserables • 500 Miles by the Proclaimers • Bohemian Rhapsody • Stayin’ Alive Zoos Zoos are now live-streaming their animals, and you can watch, from the comfort of your own home, a snow leopard sleeping behind a tree or even some meerkats!

Here are a few: • Zoo Victoria.

• Taronga Park Zoo. • San Diego Zoo. • Dublin Zoo. Other things • Wendy’s Garden, the famous secret garden built by artist Brett Whiteley’s widow Wendy at Lavender Bay in Sydney.

• Shakespeare plays and others from the Globe Theatre in London.

• National Archives of Australia online exhibits.

Enjoy!

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Filmed service to fill gap ANZAC 2020 Live allows locals to pay tribute via online event Tania Phillips ANZAC Day holds a special place in the hearts of Australians, so the news that ceremonies were cancelled across the country came as a major blow for both exservicepeople and the general public.

However, former military man Scott Seccombe and local cameraman “Kiwi” Kyle Hands decided that just because gatherings weren’t allowed didn’t mean that Coffs would be without an Anzac Day service.

The duo formed the Facebook group ANZAC 2020 Live and will broadcast a dawn service from 5.30 on April 25. The 10-15-minute event will stay up so that it can be viewed at any time.

Scott will be well known to ex-servicepeople in the

area as the parade marshall in Coffs Harbour for 14 years.

He said the idea was “all really conceptual” but they had wanted to produce something that could be viewed at 5.30am but would still be there later in the day so older veterans and people in nursing homes didn’t have to get up too early and could still watch and be part of the ceremony.

“Then it really started to grow legs,” he said, adding that many well-known locals including the Mayor had heard about the project and come on board, agreeing to record messages and parts of the ceremony.

Luckily for Kyle and Scott, most of the service was filmed before the isolating rules became too stringent.

Scott, who was in the army for eight and a half years and had deployment in Bosnia, said the whole event

INCLUSIVE GESTURE: Scott Seccombe is making sure everyone can see the local Anzac Day service online.

would be recorded but would not be available for viewing until 5.30am on Anzac Day. He said anyone who

wanted to take part in the event could join the Facebook group ANZAC 2020 Live.

Although the event was

originally organised just for the Coffs area, the group formed on March 30, gained more than 5000 members in just nine days and was still

growing as people looked for alternative ways to mark what Scott said was a “sacred day” for the community.

POSTPONED

PAT’S MOBILE LE OFFICE OF Slowing the spread of coronavirus and saving lives is our top priority. Due to necessary social distancing measures, these mobile offices have had to be postponed:

• Monday 20 April Kempsey

• Friday 8 May Bellingen

• Thursday 23 April Macksville

• Wednesday 20 May Crescent Head

• Friday 1 May Taylors Arm

• Friday 12 June South West Rocks

• Friday 8 May Urunga

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Pat and his team desire to help you during this challenging time, so please phone the Coffs Harbour office on (02) 6652 6233 or the Port Macquarie office on (02) 5507 9555 or email pat.conaghan.mp@aph.gov.au Mobile offices will be delivered and re-advertised at a later date.

Authorised by P. P Conaghan MP, MP National Party of Australia, Australia 39 Little Street, Street Coffs Harbour, Harbour NSW 2450 2450. Printed by News Corp Australia Australia.

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My parental Part of the Sandwich Generation, Kittson pours Gail Forrer

CLOSE FAMILY: Comedienne Jean Kittson with her parents Elaine and Roy. Kittson has written a book sharing advice about how to care for elderly parents.

Picture: Rob Palmer

IF you are experiencing your fifth or sixth decade of life, then it’s likely you understand the meaning of “Sandwich Generation’’ perhaps a tad too well.

The label identifies a generation who may still have children at home (or even grandchildren), are actively engaged in their own careers and providing support for their parents as they transition into the final stage of life.

If you’re not organised it can be a giant headache.

Now the lady who shot to fame with her comedienne gig in the ABC’s late 1980s show The Big Gig, and who is also an accomplished actor, writer and public speaker, has come to the stage where she, too, has joined the “Sandwich Generation’’.

Sixty-four-year-old Jean Kittson has written a book

around her experiences with her ageing parents, Dad Roy (94) and Mum Elaine (95).

She said that as people were having children later and our parents were living longer, we found ourselves in this “sandwich’’ situation

‘‘

My parents are not a burden – their humanity adds to the fabric of life. whereby we were often doing more for other family members than we expected at this age.

“The important thing is to find ways of not stressing about it. Having a wholly supportive family is my

secret ingredient. I don’t do it alone,” Kittson said.

In vintage Kittson style, her family’s story is written with love, humour, wit and warmth.

She said watching her parents age had taught her about “dignity, grace and courage’’.

Her book We need to talk about Mum and Dad had been four years in the making and offered a practical and complete guide full of expert advice and first-hand experience.

It shows you the best ways to: * Navigate the bureaucratic maze while remaining sane. * Understand what is needed for your elder’s health and wellbeing and how to get it, especially in a medical emergency. * Survive the avalanche of legal papers and official forms.

Positive ageing in the Clarence Valley • Aged care • Home Care Packages • Short term Restorative Care • NDIS services • Shopping • Personal Care • Home from hospital support

Top tips – COVID-19 Clarence Care + Support continues to provide services and our staff are trained in infection control so you can be assured they will follow all the safety measures necessary during COVID-19. We can provide additional support during this time due to extra government funding and being allowed to be flexible with our services.

There has been a lot of information but what you must remember is: Stay at home as much as possible – ask your service provider if they can do shopping or deliver meals during this time.

Social distancing – 1.5 metres apart is the rule so you do not get exposed if someone spreads the virus.

Wash your hands – soap and water and use hand sanitiser – do it every time you may touch a surface that could be contaminated. Especially in public like door handles and shopping trolleys.

Do not touch your face – the virus can enter through your eyes, nose and mouth.

If you become unwell phone your GP. As older people and those with an illness may be more at risk the above tips are your best way of not contracting coronavirus and also to stop the spread.

Keep safe everyone Kerry Little Manager Clarence Care + Support

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Clarence Care + Support for Seniors

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guidance love, laughs into book about caring for parents * Choose the best place for them to live – home, retirement village, residential aged care, or granny and grandpa flat – and help your elders relocate with love and respect.

“But I really wrote it for my daughters,” she laughed.

“So they would know how to look after me.”

Kittson’s daughters are 28 and 22 and she sees them as lucky to have two grandparents still living.

“It means your kids really have to think about someone else,” she said.

“They learn about social responsibility.

“My parents are not a burden – their humanity adds to the fabric of life.”

But for a smooth passage, Kittson emphasises using the book as a manual and “staying a chapter ahead’’.

She acknowledged that ensuring her parents were in the proper place with proper

care at the right time had been a long journey.

She believes a particular incident – when her father was washing the car, got caught up in the hose and ended up in hospital – signalled the need for an extra level of care.

“That was when he was 75,” she recalled.

She talks naturally about role reversal and of her now “parenting her parents’’.

However, while that’s most of the time, at times it reverses back.

Her dad, a former mechanic and Mr Fix-it, and her mother, a businesswoman and early feminist, have always been engaged with the bigger world.

However, today Elaine and Roy are dealing with increasing ill health.

Elaine suffers from macular degeneration and after 30 years is now legally

blind. Roy has macular dystrophy, “We are a close family. I do things with my own family whenever they let me and we all try to visit my parents once or twice a week,” Jean said.

She said the whole family pitched in and she gave as an example her nephews, who live in Newcastle, would often drive them to Sydney for their ophthalmology appointments, while her sister is exceptional at navigating the aged care system to find the right help.

And as their world becomes smaller, she wants to ensure it still has meaning for them.

Ultimately, Kittson advises to put our own fears behind us.

“Ageing, end of life, is confronting,” she said.

“But we can’t avoid it, so let’s go about embracing it.”

ADVICE: With expert advice complemented by first-hand experience, Kittson’s book helps people tackle the many complex issues affecting care for their elderly parents.

EmErgEncy AppointmEnts AvAilAblE At brAd pEArcE dEntAl

Dr Brad Pearce and his experienced team would like to thank everyone who is staying at home to help curve the spread of Covid-19 and ultimately save lives.

If you are sufferIng wIth teeth or gum troubles that are makIng you uncomfortable then please feel free to phone us as we welcome emergency appoIntments

We offer Senior Discounts and payment plans to approved patients

At this stage we are still open and offer special prices for Seniors & pensioners.

Don’t suffer alone in isolation, call us to help bring a healthy smile to your face DR NANCY RAJAN

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Give us a call on 6651 1222 because we care about your smile.

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SENIORS

Rockers are streaming ahead RMG busting lockdown blues with online gigs Gail Forrer HIGH-ENERGY Coast band Round Mountain Girls (RMG) are ready to roll into your lounge rooms with a brand new tune.

The five-member band, who use a collection of instruments to stir your heart with a Celt-country blend of roots music, are renowned for their electric live audience connection.

And while the current situation means there’s a hiatus on live performances, a touch of serendipity can get you online with their latest recording and more.

Firstly, RMG have been named as one of the 119 musicians recorded on the Bluesfest Isolation Playlist 2020. This is the best of Bluesfest offerings designed to get you through Easter isolation.

Additionally, RMG have just released their brand new single, First To Let Go.

Band member Chris Brooker said the timing of the release had much to do with the current pandemic.

“We’re releasing now so people can hear new music, which we know is what people want while pubs and clubs are in turmoil – all our shows have more than 100 people so they’ve had to be rescheduled.”

Like many artists, RMG are finding inventive ways to engage with their fans.

“We plan to do some live concerts from “The Deck’’ in the coming weeks, which we’ll be streaming on Facebook.”

The Deck is the extension from RMG’s banjo player’s home that backs onto Cabarita Creek. One of the tracks they’ll be playing from “The Deck’’ is First To Let Go, a track that was inspired by fleeting moments that can never quite be captured.

It’s a song about loss and reflecting on the good things

you have. “You never know when your time is up, so cherish the little moments,” Brooker said.

Booker said the theme was founded on an experience with his son.

“You know when you hug someone? How do you know when it’s the right time to let go? I tend to let the other person go first.

“This became a game with one of my sons. He eventually worked out what I was doing and that hugs could go on for an eternity if we want them to.”

The songs were recorded at La Ceuva Studios in Byron Bay. First To Let Go was engineered by Nick DiDia, who has worked with artists ranging from Kasey Chambers to Bruce Springsteen and Incubus.

The release comes the year after the Round Mountain Girls completed a UK tour.

“We played some massive

FRESH IS BEST: Celt-country roots band Round Mountain Girls are reaching out to fans with new music and streamed concerts during the coronavirus lockdown.

festivals and tiny pubs, slept on floors and toured in a flash bus,” Brooker said.

“That included festivals like Lakefest, Belladrum and Edinburgh Fringe Festival.”

Though live shows are off the table for now, the Round

Mountain Girls are hoping to be back playing gigs in September or October, depending on how things pan out.

Until then, the best way to support the band – and every band – is to buy

merchandise, follow them on Spotify and send them as many messages as you can.

Don’t be the first to let go of your favourite artists.

For more information. go to https://www.facebook .com/roundmountaingirls/?

Marian Grove

Hello from Sawtell Catholic Care

LIFESTYLE

AY DISPL W NO UNIT N OPE

Dear Friends, Staying Connected After living through The Plague in Florence in 1348, Giovanni Boccaccio wrote The Decameron. It is the story of ten young people in isolation who encourage one another with dreams and stories.

Their gift to us today is the realisation that in a pandemic we need to support one another.

In physically distancing ourselves, we need to be sure not to isolate ourselves socially, emotionally or spiritually. To stay healthy in mind and body, we need to use any technological means to reach out and stay in contact with each other.

Recently, Pope Francis stood in an empty St Peter’s Square, a solitary figure offering a blessing for the world, reminding us that even though we are physically distant, isolated or quarantined, we are not alone: “The Lord... invites us to reawaken and put into practice that solidarity and hope capable of giving strength, support and meaning to these hours when everything seems to be floundering. The Lord awakens so as to reawaken and revive our Easter faith...

It means finding the courage to create spaces where everyone can recognize that they are called, and to allow new forms of hospitality, fraternity and solidarity.”

May your quiet Easter be peaceful and healthy.

Matt Digges Director of Mission Sawtell Catholic Care

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(02) 6653 1241 mgreception@scca.net.au

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Veteran’s memorable life There will be no trip to the RSL club for Ted this Anzac Day Tania Phillips LIKE all of us, 96-year-old Ted Tunley of Dorrigo will be spending this Anzac Day away from the usual crowds and wreath laying but he will have plenty of memories to keep him company.

Ted, who still enjoys a quiet tipple at the Dorrigo RSL when it’s open, was born and raised in the UK and enlisted, as did many of his countrymen at that time, in the army during World War II. His service was recognised by the French Government in 2018 with the veteran being awarded the Legion of Honour Medal, something he said he found “quite surprising”, particularly for someone who started in the army in his teens.

“I enlisted in the British Army when I was very

young. I was one of the ‘boy soldiers’,” Ted recalled, a slight British accent still evident despite spending a large part of his life in Australia.

“I was involved in the DDay landings at Normandy, but I was wounded – I think it was September 1944 – so they shipped me back to England.”

He stayed in the British army after the end of the war and took a posting in Germany, where he spent four years. After leaving the army, he eventually emigrated to Australia in 1970, moving to Brisbane, which Ted said was “more like a big country town back then”.

Spending most of his working life in sales in Brisbane, he and his wife opted for the quieter life away from the growing city and retired to Dorrigo,

DAILY DESTINATION: Veteran Ted Tunley enjoys a dry sherry at the Dorrigo RSL Club.

where Ted still lives and which he believes is “just lovely”. These days he lives in assisted care adjoining Dorrigo Hospital but most days jumps on board his

trusty scooter and heads down to the Dorrigo Memorial RSL Club, where club manager Andrew Gawne says under normal circumstances the veteran

Picture: Andrew Gawne

likes to “sit and watch the ABC news while sipping on a glass of dry sherry”.

“Ted is a real treasure here at Dorrigo RSL,” Andrew said before the

lockdown. “It was the sacrifices made by people like Ted that allow us all to enjoy the lifestyle we have today, and that should never be forgotten.’’

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FUN FORUM: Glenreagh Creative Group members Lyn, Joan and Bev enjoy a weekly meeting before the coronavirus social limitations were introduced.

Creative approach to growth Tania Phillips THE Glenreagh Creative Group may not be able to meet for regular Wednesday craft mornings at the local hall just now but that doesn’t mean the members aren’t still together and planning for the future.

“We are a resilient lot,” president Liz Shipman said.

“We are keeping in touch via Facebook and emails.”

It has been a challenging time for the members, with many already affected by the fires that swept through the region over recent months, including in the tiny town of Glenreagh, between Coffs and Grafton.

But Liz said the group members, most of whom were over 60 – were still creating, posting pictures of their gardens and craft work and looking forward to the time they cannot only meet up again but also hold their fundraising morning tea.

“We were having a high tea to raise money for the Nymboida Craft Group – they lost everything in the fire,” she said.

“We were making a quilt to raffle to raise money.”

When the group stopped meeting, many of the members took the squares

home to finish them off and the project is now ready to be pieced together and quilted. The raffle will then be held among the group members’ family and friends. The group’s high tea, originally set down for Mother’s Day, is now tentatively set for spring.

But in the meantime, Liz said, not only were the ladies sticking together but the group was still happy to take on new members.

She said there were up to 60 members in the group, from all over the region from Grafton to Coffs Harbour.

“There are only four members who actually live in Glenreagh now,” she laughed.

“Most of our ladies travel up to three quarters of an hour to get here.”

The group holds regular “easy” workshops covering all sorts of crafts, from painting techniques to fabric work and scrapbooking.

“Even if you don’t craft at all you can come along, bring a book and have a cup of tea,” Liz said.

And until they meet again, you can contact Liz for a membership form and find them on Facebook at Glenreagh Creative Group Inc, or email Liz on lshipman@bigpond.net.au.

Betty Simmons (standing), Margaret Preshaw and Peggy Clarke hone their skills.

Joy Leach and Yvonne Howland with some of their work.

Examples of the group's beautiful creations.

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FEATURE

APRIL, 2020//

SENIORS

Much-loved nurse leaves Kathy calls it quits after half-century of service Tracey Johnstone OVER 50 years, nurse Kathy Quirk has seen the landscape of the Atherton Tableland town of Herberton change ever so slowly as she watched the ebb and flow of the generations.

At the far end of the town where it might take no more than a few minutes to drive from one end to the other, we sit in an old-fashioned timber booth in the quirky Jacaranda Coffee Lounge savouring our tea and coffee, hidden from the searing north Queensland heat.

It’s just along the street from the Royal Hotel and the little convenience store that services the town’s 900 residents. Follow the road either way alongside Wild River, up the hill to find Mount St Bernard boarding school, three churches, a historic village and the Herberton Mining Museum overflowing with historical treasures.

‘‘

I have nursed a lot of people and they’ve had babies.

Now those kids are parents.

Kathy sits with her chin tilted down, eyes on the table, wary of the tape recorder, hoping no one she knows will stroll in.

Hardly possible, one could assume. The 67-yearold has been an enrolled nurse at Herberton Hospital for 50, actually as of March it will be 51, extraordinary years.

She’s a shy, quietly spoken indigenous woman who is reticent to talk about herself until you invite her to speak about her time working in her home town’s hospital.

Then Kathy’s chin lifts, her voice raises a notch and her eyes sparkle with pride.

“Families that I have known over the 50 years or so come over and ask if I am still working,” she said.

“I have to stop and think, who are you? Then they have to tell me their name because I forget. I meet so many people.

“I have nursed a lot of people in the old hospital and they have had babies.

Now those kids are now parents themselves.”

It was Kathy’s first job after leaving Herberton State School and it’s remained her only job throughout her working life.

Once Kathy finished high school she went looking for a job. She knew it was going to be hard to find one in the local area. There was only a college, school, hospital and small local businesses and

SHINING EXAMPLE: Humble nurse Kathy Quirk has been devoted to Herberton Hospital patients’ care for 51 years but is bidding her work farewell while looking forward to spending more time with her grandchildren.

Picture: Tracey Johnstone

not enough jobs to go around.

At that time Herberton Hospital delivered general care to the surrounding Atherton Tableland population, which was farming the rich soil or working in mining. It was the first established town in the Tableland. The local historians will tell you mining gave the town wealth, two newspapers and 24 pubs.

A family affair Kathy always wanted to be a nurse. She had a dream of working at Cootharinga in Townsville, which provides support to children and adults with disabilities.

But really, she didn’t want to leave town, where her single mother and five siblings were still living, and where the family’s previous generations lived.

“Mum worked hard and supported us,” Kathy said.

She cleaned the local pub for many years before securing the cleaning job at the Herberton Hospital.

Luckily for Kathy, her mother found out the matron was looking for a nurse’s aide. Kathy got the job on a three-month trial.

“From there I just stuck it out,” Kathy said.

“It was like a family thing.”

Her mother worked at the

hospital for some 30 years.

One of Kathy’s sisters also worked there for 20 years, in the laundry and kitchen.

Kathy worked as an unregistered nurse’s aide for about 10 years before she headed 100km down the hill to the TAFE college in Cairns to do her nursing certification course.

She remembers the early days of the busy maternity ward and when some mothers had to adopt out their babies. These are family secrets she holds close to her chest.

“We got attached to those little babies; it was sad when we had to say

goodbye to them,” Kathy said.

With progress comes change Gone now are those days as the hospital changed dramatically about 35 years ago.

While the town’s history has been proudly preserved, its population gradually depleted as the nature of the farming and mining changed, and the commercial and social centre of the region moved to the nearby town of Atherton.

All the general and maternity care was moved 15 minutes along the ridge to

relevant signage in appropriate locations in Coffs Harbour, Sawtell, the Jetty area and Woolgoolga. We’re very keen to hear more good ideas like that one and are asking anyone with any suggestions to email us on industry@chcc.nsw.gov.au Similarly, Council has also had to adapt the way we do things. One of the most public was switching our own Coffs Coast Growers Market to a virtual market via a website – www.coffscoasthar-

vest.com.au/coffs-coastgrowers-market – that means customers can still get local fresh fruit, vegetables and other goods that they want and producers still have a way to sell their products to customers.

Our library staff have also found some very innovative ways to keep providing their popular children’s services in a safe, socially-distanced online format.

As an organisation , we have undergone a major in-

ternet upgrade so that our systems can support a large number of staff working from home. This means we can ensure we continue to meet the needs of the community while also protecting the health of our staff.

This major body of work would not normally have been done in such a short timescale, but our staff did a magnificent job over a weekend and developed a new platform to meet current circumstances.

Coffs Council News

Coffs Harbour Mayor Denise Knight.

Picture: Trevor Veale

IN the past, this holiday period would’ve been one of the local tourism industry’s major economic drivers, but we’re currently looking at a very different landscape with everyone being told to stay home.

But there are reasons to be optimistic. Local tourism operators are telling us, for example, that 80% of customers are postponing bookings rather than cancelling. In some cases, this has meant operators have had

to change or create a cancellation policy to adapt to the ‘new normal’.

And the ability to adapt fast and work differently as a result of these new circumstances is really starting to become a characteristic of many local businesses.

One local business suggested to Council that 15minute pick-up parking zones in café precincts would help support these initiatives and we were very happy to help by installing

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big mark on small town

Herberton Hospital director of nursing Deanne Hellsten with Kathy in front of a photo of the original hospital.

the major health hub at Atherton District Memorial Hospital, leaving Herberton Hospital with 38 beds for aged care and palliative care patients.

“It’s hard as when they get in there all they want to do is go home,” Kathy mused about the predominantly former farmers. We have had a few climb fences to get out.”

Kathy has happily stayed as an enrolled nurse working on the frontline.

“I find I can do better with hands-on nursing,” she said.

“I hate paperwork. I would rather look after

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them, care for them. I don’t want to be up the top; too much responsibility as an RN.” She admitted she has also struggled with everything being online, from training to patient record-keeping.

As her retirement date approached, Kathy received many accolades from within her community. One she eagerly shared was from Wendy, whose mother was admitted to Herberton Hospital in 1996.

“This was a terribly stressful time for my family and I with two nurses in the family,” Wendy wrote.

“The guilt we felt in having to admit mum to Herberton was overwhelming. We thought we would do all her care at our family home, but soon realised that we could not deliver the complex care that mum needed.

“Kathy was one of the nurses who settled our guilt and grief at leaving mum at Herberton through her personalised care and attention towards mum, but very inclusive of our large family. We never had a reason to question or complain about the care mum received, but when we knew Kathy was on duty our

Kathy as a proud young nurse who went on to become a highly respected fixture at Herberton Hospital.

minds were more at ease.

“Kathy has always demonstrated her gentle, caring, thoughtful nature to residents of Herberton. Her nursing care and encouragement have helped many co-workers thrive in a very complex environment, and many have been fortunate to have Kathy as a professional colleague and friend. This is no mean feat when the pressures of

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paperwork, policies, standards and new procedures are pressing down on a cohort who only want to deliver hands-on nursing care.’’

What lies ahead Around the town there were more strangers now, Kathy said. Jobs for the locals have mostly gone to Atherton or to further down the range.

Her husband, Bernie,

drives to Cairns every day to work, leaving home at 4am.

Kathy still rises at 5am every day – it’s a habit she knows will be hard to break.

The little hospital remains proudly atop the town hill watching over the changing community.

There are fewer buildings now, but the garden surrounds are lovingly looked after.

There are younger staff working at the hospital.

Kathy sometimes wonders if they are thinking, “She’s been her too long and it’s time she moved along’’.

“I could have worked another 12 months, but then I thought, it’s time to get out and enjoy my life as I have spent more than half my life working at the hospital,” Kathy said.

“I feel I have had enough.”

Kathy said she would take with her many lovely memories of her time at the hospital and of some of the patients, particularly those who don’t have family visiting them until it’s too late.

“We’re their family,” she said quietly as her chin dipped and she lapsed into deep thought.

But now her eight grandchildren beckon.

Kathy’s daughter wants her to start a hobby. Maybe volunteering at the local Salvation Army shop is on the cards, Kathy suggested, but then added, only as long as the bashful senior can avoid the customers.

But really, looking after the extended family is what she wants to do in retirement along with many more family fishing trips.

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NEWS

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SENIORS

Wendy’s getting it done No shortage of challenges for RSL club’s CEO Gail Forrer WENDY Mills started out as a casual attendant at Nambucca RSL; today she is CEO of a club boasting 5500 members and 76 staff, and is facing some of the biggest challenges in its history, “I’ve been through fire, flood and now the coronavirus,” Wendy said.

“If I get through this, I’ll get through anything,” she added with a confident and upbeat tone.

The innovative way Wendy has gone about tackling these disasters means the club, with the community behind her, can count a significant number of achievements.

She has worked her way up the career ladder at the club until gaining the top position 12 months ago.

Wendy is one of just a handful of female club CEOs.

When the coronavirus hit, the club immediately enforced the required restrictions, however, to survive and thrive Wendy knew she had to come up with a new direction.

“When all this started and with talk of the club closing, I knew it was time to think out of the square on how could I keep the club functioning and staff working,” she said.

While the main club is closed, the downstairs foyer has transformed into a mini cafe and there is a convenience store stocking essentials such as butter, milk, toilet paper, etc. The bottle shop is still open, and the bistro is cooking up a more compact menu of delicious meals — and they are careful to include their regular $10 special.

Wendy said staff delivered all items, including meals, to the front door and

organised payment with the customer. Additionally, Wendy is ensuring help is given to those still suffering from the fires. The club has organised to pay a year’s rental on 10 shipping containers that will be given to fire-affected families, some of whom are still living in tents, to use as storage units. She said one was supposed to be delivered to a South Arm family this week, but there was irony in the reason it didn’t happen.

“The rain has stopped trucks getting into properties,” she said.

Nevertheless, the containers will be delivered, because as Wendy said, “I function well when there’s a lot going on — I just get it done.”

RISING TO THE OCCASION: Nambucca RSL catering supervisor Toni Mansfield and staff member Suzie Park with takeaway food.

Takeaway Meals, Small Convenience Store & Free Home Delivery The new normal for Nambucca RSL Club Pick up or delivery includes Freshly cooked meals starting at $10 Freshly baked muffins, cakes, pies & quiches Barista Coffee And convenience products such as toilet paper, meat and groceries

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The new way to shop at Nambucca Plaza

NEW NORMAL: The Nambucca Plaza is at 2191 Giinagay Way, on the Nambucca River.

Due to the nature of their business, and the voluntary service of most of their staff, both of our op shops, Lifeline and Care ‘n Wear, have temporarily closed.

Millers Fashion Club and Sportfirst as well as the cinema centre will remain closed for the duration of the Government restrictions.

Seniors Travel Card Accepted

Fortunately, Ritchies Supa IGA is still open and has most of your needs in good supply. Social distancing restrictions apply within the store and management hope that patrons will comply freely for their own, and others’, safety.

Our pharmacy, baker, butcher, health food store as well as the laundry and Reject Shop continue to trade as normal, but with social distancing being observed in all outlets.

Magic Noodle continues to satisfy the hunger pangs, while Cafe Eighteen is providing a takeaway-only service for that muchneeded coffee hit or snack attack. Pizza Hut is still home-delivering.

For more, go to nambuccaplaza.com.au.

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NAMBUCCA Plaza, along with the rest of Australia, has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

But in true Aussie fashion we are adapting to the change in the way we interact with our customers and suppliers to ensure the safety of all who visit our centre.

To this end, we have removed all non-essential items, such as seating, amusements, children’s rides and stands, from our common area to minimise the chance for contact contamination.

We have also employed a “sanitation” service person to roam the facility constantly disinfecting any surfaces that patrons and staff may touch in their visits to the Plaza.

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FEATURE

APRIL, 2020//

SENIORS

Tracy’s help proof she cares WHEN Tracy Mairinger took on the catering at the Darlington Beach caravan park at Arrawarra 18 months ago, she couldn’t have foreseen that her bestselling meal would be the humble rissoles and gravy.

But with the tourist park closing its gates to tourists during the pandemic emergency, Tracy’s Flamingo Restaurant has turned from a bustling restaurant and cafe with a grocery store to the hub for the 200 permanent residents — many of them 55 and older.

The chairs are all up now and there is no dining so Tracy’s profits are cut but for her now it’s all about helping the residents. She said as well as stocking items that the residents need and may

Flamingo Restaurant’s Tracy Mairinger with Robyn, one of her regular customers who enjoys Tracy’s delicious offerings at Darlington Beach Holiday Resort at Arrawarra.

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in each serve that the older residents could make two meals out of it.

“At the end I’m providing a service,” she said.

The meals come with a hefty dose of reassurance and support too, and it is obviously rewarding work — work Tracy is doing predominantly by herself after having to let her very loyal and much-loved staff go for the time being.

A chef by trade, she is now spending her days making three or four different soups, the big favourite — rissoles — and other easy-to-heat oldfashioned favourites.

It’s hardly what she’s been doing most of her professional career but, at the moment, Tracy wouldn’t have it any other way.

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Meals on Wheels Grafton supplying meals to the aged and disadvantaged.

The kitchen has been closed for hot meals, volunteers are stood down until we get some kind of normality back.

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not be able to source elsewhere, she was now making a “care package” of home-cooked meals and takeaway coffee.

Tracy had become concerned that quite a few of the older residents, particularly men, were in danger of becoming undernourished.

The restaurant owner, who has run businesses in both Coffs Harbour and Port Kembla, has now been spending her days making nourishing stews, soups and rissoles for the residents.

“It is just all about community care for me,” she said. “I’m a bit of a softy.”

Tracy said the seniors weren’t spending a lot of money but at this time it wasn’t about that and she liked to provide enough food

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TOPPED UP: Clients’ food needs are covered thanks to Lifetime Connect’s services.

them and also supplying personalised shopping services in conjunction with FoodWorks in Macksville.

“We really appreciate our local service providers working with us during this time to continue to provide

Call us to discuss how we can help you stay at home Phone: 026651 1649 | Email: info@carexcell.com.au

for our community members who need meals and shopping but don’t want to expose themselves to the risk,’’ said Lifetime Connect’s general manager, Kathy Oliver.

“We want to thank the management of Macksville Ex-Services Club for their ongoing support for our Meals on Wheel program, and Macksville FoodWorks and Community Transport in assisting us with any of the extra resources we need to ramp up our services.”

If you have family you are concerned about, or would like assistance yourself in navigating through My Aged Care to access these services, call us on 02 6568 2522.

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Our ageing community members may be experiencing stress associated with not only accessing shopping facilities but also being able to have nutritious meals.

We at Lifetime Connect are dedicated to ensuring that members of our ageing community and those living with disability are not missing out on the items that they need to “get by’’ during the coronavirus crisis.

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16

ESCAPE

APRIL, 2020//

Our unique wonders Down Under

SENIORS

WORLD CLASS: The beginner-friendly Elabana Falls Track is a half-day walk that branches off the Main Border Track, about 1km from O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat.

Plan for post-isolation bliss amid Aussie beauty THE World Heritage List records more than 1000 natural, cultural and mixed sites that are protected by international convention and considered important for the whole world.

The list is administered by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

World Heritage-listed sites are managed under the World Heritage Convention.

In Australia, World Heritage-listed properties are managed cooperatively by state and federal governments in accordance with the Australian World Heritage Intergovernmental Agreement.

Here is a list of a few of the sites:

THE GREAT BARRIER REEF The Great Barrier Reef was the first Queensland site to be recognised for its representation of major stages of the Earth’s evolutionary history and as the largest coral reef system on the planet.

Gondwana Rainforests of Australia straddles Queensland’s southern border and encompasses Lamington, Springbrook, Mt Barney and the Main Range National Parks. This area is the most extensive remaining area of subtropical rainforest and is home to nearly all of the world’s Antarctic beech rainforest.

A slightly prehistoric twist sees ancient Australian mammals preserved in limestone at the Riversleigh Fossil Mammal site in Outback Queensland on the list. Some fossil deposits date back 25 million years.

WET TROPICS Extending from Cooktown to Townsville and including the Daintree Rainforest, the Wet Tropics of Queensland protects Australia’s largest remaining area of wet tropical rainforest with cultural significance for the Aboriginal people who have called this area home for thousands of years.

Aim to reach all of these World Heritage-listed areas and you’ll have an adventure plan that covers most of our beautiful state!

MOUNT BARNEY Mount Barney, Scenic Rim Area The distinctive peaks of mounts Barney, Maroon, May, Lindesay, Ernest, Ballow and Clunie dominate the skyline in Mount Barney National Park. These rugged peaks are the remains of the ancient Focal Peak shield volcano that erupted 24 million years ago. Mount Barney is the second-highest peak in southeast Queensland and most of the park lies within the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area.

The park’s cascading

creeks and pristine forest habitats preserve many rare plants and vulnerable animal species. For a leisurely visit, drive to Yellow Pinch picnic area and photograph kingfishers swooping over the water. Very experienced walkers can climb sheer rugged mountain peaks to awe-inspiring views of craggy ridges and distant ranges. For the less adventurous, there are a few moderate walks around the mountains’ bases.

Facilities: Barbecues, car park.

SPRINGBROOK Springbrook Plateau, Springbrook National Park, Springbrook, Gold Coast Springbrook Plateau, Springbrook National Park, offers breathtaking lookouts, magnificent waterfalls, dense rainforest and ancient Antarctic beech trees. The park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage area.

Dominating the Gold Coast’s western skyline, Springbrook’s cool forests and mountain streams offer views of impressive landscapes, and walks among subtropical and temperate rainforest, open eucalypt forest and montane heath. The plateau has many lookouts with fabulous views.

Visit Purling Brook Falls, which cascades 100 metres

FRASER ISLAND Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world and is noted for its exceptional beauty, ever-evolving coastal sand-dune formations and habitats, as well as 250km of sandy beaches.

RIVERSLEIGH FOSSIL MAMMAL SITE

Please check with Government advice before leaving your home and visiting any of the sites mentioned in this story.

into a deep rainforest valley lined with palms, tree ferns and stream lilies. From Goomoolahra picnic area, walk 50 metres to another waterfall and two striking lookouts. Stroll 300 metres from the Tallanbana picnic area, just past Canyon Lookout, to the top of Twin Falls; or continue on a longer walk through the canyon.

NSW THE NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) manages four World Heritage areas that are either entirely within the national parks estate or partially in the NSW national park estate. These are: Australian Convict Sites – Old Great North Road, Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, Greater Blue Mountains Area, Willandra Lakes Region.

GREATER BLUE MOUNTAINS

Greater Blue Mountains is a World Heritage-listed area of diverse landscapes filled with plants, wildlife, caves and rock formations in NSW national parks. It’s full of cultural significance, with six Aboriginal groups having connection to the Country of the Area, as it’s tied with Dreaming and rock art.

The Greater Blue Mountains Area is one of the largest and most intact tracts of protected bushland in Australia. The area is a deeply incised sandstone tableland covering 1 million hectares spread across eight adjacent conservation reserves. The landscapes of this property lie inland to the west of Sydney and extend almost 250 kilometres from the edge of the Hunter Valley to the Southern Highlands near Mittagong.

An enormous variety of plants occur here, but eucalypts dominate the landscape: the area is home

to 96 species (13 per cent of all eucalypt species).

WILLANDRA LAKES Willandra Lakes Region World Heritage Area is an ancient landscape formed by wind and water. The area includes a small section that is Mungo National Park, where Mungo Lady and Mungo Man were uncovered. Dating human habitation back to more than 40,000 years, the discovery is believed to be the world’s oldest site of ritual ceremony. Preserved in the arid environment are ancient fireplaces, calcified plants, stone tools, and animal bones.

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A waterfall in lush Lamington National Park, part of the magnificent Gondwana Rainforests area.

The Great Barrier Reef – a tropical paradise teeming with eye-popping colour and life.

The Walls of China in Mungo National Park at Willandra Lakes, NSW. Picture: NSW Tourism/Don Fuchs

four convict sites in NSW that, together with seven other sites across Tasmania, Norfolk Island and Western Australia, make up the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property.

Finished in 1836 using convict labour, Devines Hill and Finchs Line were completed as part of Old Great North Road – which originally spanned 264km and connected Sydney and the Hunter Valley. Today 43km of road remains alongside Dharug and Yengo national parks.

GONDWANA RAINFORESTS OF AUSTRALIA The Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage area contains the most extensive areas of subtropical rainforest in the world, large areas of warm temperate rainforest, and the majority of the world’s Antarctic beech coolV1 - SEFE01Z01MA

temperature rainforest.

These extraordinary areas still contain ancient and primitive plants and animals from which life on Earth evolved. Get to know Gondwana Rainforests along a walking track, on a driving route, or by staying in nearby accommodation.

DORRIGO NATIONAL PARK The Gondwana Rainforests of Australia comprises 50 separate reserves scattered between Newcastle and Brisbane. With a combined area of 366,500 hectares, this World Heritage site is the most extensive area of subtropical rainforest in the world. Providing an essential habitat for more than 270 threatened plant and animal species, the Gondwana Rainforests are a priceless feature of eastern Australia’s landscape.

Just 90 minutes from Coffs Harbour, Dorrigo

National Park is one of the Gondwana Rainforests’ most beautiful areas. This park is known for its excellent birdwatching, as well as its beautiful waterfall walks and barbecue areas. Start at the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre before making your way onto the boardwalk. This 70metre-long platform brings guests to stunning Skywalk Lookout, where you can take in panoramic views of the Rosewood rainforest basin, the Bellinger Valley and beyond from 21 metres above the rainforest floor.

LORD HOWE ISLAND GROUP The Lord Howe Island Group is a collection of 28 islands, islets and rocks situated about 600km east of Port Macquarie, in the Tasman Sea. The largest of these islands is Lord Howe itself, a 10km-by-2km land mass formed by volcanic activity some 7 million years ago.

Heritage listed in 1982, the Lord Howe Island Group has been recognised for its endemic species as well as its stunning – and largely untouched – terrain. The islands also sit on the southernmost coral reef in the world, which is home to more than 90 species of coral and 500 species of fish. The west coast of Lord Howe Island features a sheltered, sandy coral reef lagoon with excellent snorkelling opportunities, while the island’s south is covered by forested hills that rise to the highest point on the island: Mount Gower.

In most cases, Lord Howe Island can only be reached by air. However, this very isolation has allowed the region to develop such an impressive range of unique flora and fauna. Visitor numbers have been limited to 400 people a night in an effort to reduce the impact of tourism on the island.

GONDWANA RAINFORESTS Get in touch with nature in the Word Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests, the most extensive subtropical rainforest in the world. Making up the Springbrook and Lamington National Parks in the Gold Coast hinterland, it is within only a short drive of the beach life.

Be spoilt for choice in Springbrook National Park, home to native wildlife and four sections of walking trails with stunning lookouts.

Capture the flowing water stream at the Natural Bridge or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Springbrook Plateau to be blown away by waterfalls, breathtaking views and lush rainforest.

Enjoy more than 160 kilometres of walking trails scattered with waterfalls, ancient fauna and flora through the Lamington National Park. Or walk among the treetops on the 1.5-kilometre Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, which takes you from the canopy floor up to a 40-metre cantilever with a viewing platform over Cedar Creek.

Take a step back in time in Gondwana Rainforests, one of the few places in the world where the plants and animals closely resemble their ancestors.

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SENIORS

Wellbeing

Cultural diversity covered by care Specific aged care help available for seniors Gail Forrer WHILE the world reels from the shock of a new virus, it can be easy to forget the positive societal changes that have also changed the world – particularly for seniors.

One of the many changes to be celebrated is access to aged care provisions for culturally diverse seniors.

If you are an older person from a culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) background, there are aged care services specifically for you.

Many organisations now offer specific diets, activities, languages or spiritual needs, whatever your cultural, linguist or spiritual background.

Bolton Clarke diversity manager Jaklina Michael said culturally appropriate care and services were about understanding, respecting and meeting the needs and expectations of people.

That included having access to care workers who are culturally competent, information seniors can understand and use, and support in receiving aged

care services.

“Bringing those things together means people can feel safe in their experience of aged care services and can share their diverse characteristics and life experiences without fear of discrimination,” Jaklina said.

For Bolton Clarke athome support client Petar, who emigrated from Macedonia in 1967, creating that cultural safety has involved a multidisciplinary team working closely with his family over time.

Petar, 80, lives with his wife and son but has highcare needs due to diabetes-

CULTURAL CONNECTION: Macedonian migrants Petar and Ristana receive culturally appropriate care through Bolton Clarke’s at-home support service.

related health issues including vision impairment and foot amputations.

He grew up in a small village and speaks, reads and writes Macedonian. He has everyday conversational English but requires a professional interpreter for more complex conversations such as health education.

Petar and his wife, Ristana, settled and raised their family in Wollongong before moving to Melbourne to live with son Johnny after he had a stroke in 2000.

For Petar, support in accessing the nearest Macedonian Orthodox

church and subscribing to broadcast Macedonian TV programs have been important in meeting his care needs and reducing his isolation.

“He was experiencing barriers to accessing services, putting him at risk of premature entry to residential aged care,’’ Ms Michael said. ”His Bolton Clarke wound care nurse raised her concerns and a team approach was put in place to support the family.

“The team arranged a Macedonian-speaking worker, a culturally

competent diabetes specialist nurse and a Macedonian interpreter to better understand Petar’s cultural identity and specific needs and ensure he had access to culturally safe and appropriate support.’’ * If you speak a language other than English, you can call the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) on 131 450 for support to talk to My Aged Care or with your aged care provider about your services.

TIS National covers more than 100 languages and is available 24/7.

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Prescription for survival Blueprint for protection with measures for seniors in place

assessment. Assessments can also be conducted using telehealth rather than face to face where appropriate.

Speak with a home-care provider about these measures.

THIS information is sourced from a Federal Government fact sheet dedicated to specific advice for older Australians. It outlines the Covid-19 facts and the measures you, your family and friends can take to protect older Australians.

The spread of Covid-19 and Australia’s response is evolving. For more details, go to www.health.gov.

WHAT IS COVID-19 (CORONAVIRUS)?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause respiratory infections. These can range from the common cold to more serious diseases. Covid-19 is the disease caused by a new coronavirus. It was first reported in December 2019 in Wuhan City in China. It has now become a global pandemic.

HOW IS IT SPREAD? The virus can spread from person to person through: • Close contact with an infectious person (including in the 24 hours before they start showing symptoms).

• Contact with droplets from an infected person coughing or sneezing.

• Touching objects or surfaces (such as doorknobs or tables) that have droplets on them from an infected person, and then touching your mouth or face.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS? The symptoms of Covid-19 are similar to colds and flus and can include: fever, fatigue, sore throat, cough and shortness of breath.

While the Covid-19 virus is of serious concern, it is important to remember, at this stage, that most people displaying symptoms may be suffering from a cold, flu, allergies or other respiratory illness — not Covid-19.

DO I NEED TO BE TESTED IF I HAVE THOSE SYMPTOMS? If you develop symptoms within 14 days of last contact with a confirmed Covid-19 case or returning to V1 - SEFE01Z01MA

I HAVE A HOME CARE PACKAGE. WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR ME?

LAYING DOWN THE LAW: Heeding the ever-changing behavioural rules as the coronavirus outbreak worsens is even more important for seniors, who are at most risk.

Picture: AP/Vadim Ghirda

Australia, you should seek medical attention. Your doctor will tell you if you need to get tested. There is a global shortage of test kits, so the medical advice so far is to limit testing and target it towards people who may have been exposed to the virus.

WHY IS THIS VIRUS SO DANGEROUS FOR OLDER PEOPLE? The risk of serious illness from Covid-19 increases with age. The highest rate of fatalities is among older people, particularly those with other serious health conditions or a weakened immune system. There is currently no cure or vaccine for Covid-19, or immunity in the community.

For people living with dementia or some form of cognitive impairment, the ability to follow instructions or to alert others about potential symptoms may be a challenge. This is especially so where there is a limited capacity to communicate verbally or express pain and discomfort. In this situation, observation by someone who knows the person with dementia may assist in identifying changes in their health.

I AM AN OLDER PERSON. WHAT CAN I DO? Even if you are feeling well, it is important to take steps to prevent the virus spreading. Good hygiene and taking care when

interacting with other people are the best defences for you and your family against Covid-19.

This includes: • Covering your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or a tissue.

• Disposing of tissues immediately they are used, into a dedicated waste bin, and washing your hands.

• Washing your hands often, with soap and water, including before and after eating and after going to the toilet, and when you have been out to shops or other places.

• Using alcohol-based hand sanitisers.

• Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces you have touched.

• Where possible, stay 1.5 metres away from other people, an example of “social distancing”.

• If you are sick, avoiding contact with others.

If you start to feel unwell, phone the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080 or your GP, who will be able to provide you with further advice.

Older people aged 70+ (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people), or people with chronic conditions, are able to seek medical support from their GPs through bulkbilled telehealth (videolink) and telephone services.

Examples of possible video applications include FaceTime and Skype.

CAN I GO TO THE

SHOPS OR CATCH THE BUS, OR SHOULD I STAY IN MY OWN HOME? All Australians are being asked to practise “social distancing”, including staying 1.5 metres away from other people where possible.

Only people diagnosed with, or exposed to Covid-19 and those returning from overseas are required to self-isolate in their homes.

ARE OTHER VACCINATIONS IMPORTANT? It is very important that you reduce your risk of getting other illnesses while Covid19 remains in our community.

There is no vaccine for Covid-19, however, it is important that you get the 2020 flu vaccination as soon as it is available from your GP or pharmacy.

Discuss with your doctor whether you should have a pneumococcal vaccination against pneumonia, which is recommended for everyone over 65. You should also discuss having a shingles vaccination.

WHAT IF I NEED URGENT ASSISTANCE THAT CANNOT BE PROVIDED BY MY CURRENT CARER? Older Australians can access short-term home support services (such as meals or personal care) in an emergency without having had an aged-care

Consumers with Home Care packages have flexibility with how they spend their funds over a wide range of care and services to support them to stay safe, healthy and independent in their home.

The Government will ensure home-care providers have even greater support to meet the changing needs of clients as the virus unfolds.

With support from the Government, home-care providers are working hard to meet people’s needs during the crisis.

The services you currently receive through your Home Care Package will continue.

However, there may be some changes to the way the services are delivered.

If you are concerned about the way your current services are being delivered or would like to make changes to your services because of the Covid-19 outbreak, contact your provider. You can also speak with your provider about changes to your usual services.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I’VE SPENT ALL THE MONEY IN MY HOME CARE PACKAGE THIS MONTH? In emergencies, if you have fully allocated your Home Care Package, you may access short-term home support services (for a range of services, including nursing, personal care and meals). Speak with your home-care provider about these measures.

I NEED ADDITIONAL MEDICAL / HEALTH SERVICES. WHERE CAN I GO? As part of the Covid-19 National Health Plan, the Australian Government has increased access to bulkbilled MBS telehealth and telephone services and fasttracked electronic

prescribing of medicines.

The Government’s Telehealth scheme allows doctors, nurses and mental health professionals to deliver services via telehealth or by telephone, provided those services are bulk billed, to those people who are 70+ years of age (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people); people self-isolating at home; or those with chronic health conditions or immunocompromised.

Patients are encouraged to contact their health service providers to ask about the availability of telehealth and telephone services.

The Government is creating measures to allow prescriptions remotely and have their medicines home delivered to reduce their potential exposure to Covid19. More information on the Covid-19 National Health Plan is available at www .health.gov.au/resources/ collections/coronavirusCovid-19-national-healthplan-resources.

CAN I STILL HAVE CONTACT WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY? The Government is advising everyone to practise “social distancing”, which means less contact between you and other people to help slow the spread of the disease. If you are an older person (60+), you should consider limiting physical contact with other people, especially young children, and avoiding large groups of people. You may wish to limit your visitors to one or two people a day, and limit the duration of visits. This will help protect you and help stop the spread of disease.

It’s possible that children and young people may be carriers of Covid-19 but show no symptoms, making it extremely difficult to tell whether it’s safe for them to visit an older relative.

These measures may be stressful for you and your loved ones. A chat over the phone, video call or email — rather than visits in person — are a good precaution and could help stop the spread of Covid-19.

For the latest advice and information, go to www.health.gov.au.

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Ex-judge keen to raise bar in fitness pursuit At 94, he’s a self-confessed parkrun addict ONE walk was all it took to get former NSW Supreme Court judge, 94-year-old The Honourable Adrian Roden, hooked on parkrun, proving age is no barrier when it comes to being active and healthy.

Judge Roden completed his first parkrun in North Sydney in February last year, and recently completed his 30th parkrun, placing him slightly ahead of the schedule he set for himself.

Having chalked up 150 kilometres in just over 12 months, Judge Roden hit 25 parkruns on 25 January this year, one week before his 94th birthday, and said he planned to reach 50 before turning 95 in 2021.

“My plan is to do 25 parkruns before my next birthday and the same again for another two years, in order to reach my 100th parkrun,” Judge Roden said. “parkrun has added an extra dimension to my life.

I’m really not sure what I would do without it.”

When not walking the regular 5km free community event, Judge Roden was hoping to volunteer so he could maintain weekly contact with the parkrun community.

“People say it’s like a

second family. The friendship of the people at North Sydney is quite remarkable. It’s the nicest group of people that you could imagine meeting, who previously were complete strangers to me.

“On the day of my 25th parkrun they put on a party for me and presented me with a special T-shirt where we normally go for coffee after the run. There was a cake and speeches, it was wonderful.

“They still keep in touch with me even now that parkrun has been suspended due to the coronavirus.’’

Often asked what is the secret to a long and healthy life, Judge Roden insists it isn’t a secret. Just the luck of the genetic draw, followed by all the obvious sensible things.

North Sydney parkrun Run director Paul Harper revealed Judge Roden’s competitive spirit.

“Before attempting his first parkrun, Adrian watched for a few weeks, seated on a nearby park bench,” Mr Harper said.

“The interesting participation data that parkrun produces for parkrunners appeals to Adrian’s analytical mind. It

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allows members to compare their own performance against others in the same age group and Adrian was delighted to find he was not alone.

“Everyone relates to and enjoys Adrian’s company, despite him not listening to their gentle cautions to slow down a little – he is very competitive, regularly completing 5km in around 50 minutes.” parkrun’s strategic director of Asia Pacific Tim Oberg said community connection and inclusion was what parkrun was all about.

“It’s very special that as the largest mass participation sporting event on the planet, parkrun has this incredible ability to connect people in such a personal way,’’ he said.

“The decision to suspend parkrun events worldwide in response to the COVID-19 pandemic weighs heavily on us, so to see communities like North Sydney continuing to offer support to each other outside the usual event format is truly heartening.’’

Judge Roden was introduced to his local North Sydney parkrun by nephew Leigh Roden and Leigh’s

ON THE RUN: Former Judge Adrian Roden, 94, participating in a parkrun.

wife, Sue, both trail runner’s in their 60s. Suitable for all ages and abilities, parkrun is a free 5km run or walk that takes place every Saturday morning at more than 380 urban and regional locations throughout Australia.

In line with government

advice regarding the COVID19 pandemic, parkrun is currently suspended around the world until further notice.

For updates, see https:// www.parkrun.com/news /2020/03/12/covid-19.

To stay in touch with

parkrun Australia, members can also search for @parkrunAU on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for fun ways (such as the Great Big parkrun Quiz held online on March 21) to keep spirits up and stay connected during this difficult time.

We can still love our neighbour, but ...

NEIGHBOUR Day is Australia’s annual celebration of community, but with people across the country being asked to practise social distancing and self-isolation, it might be difficult to appreciate a day that emphasises social connection.

More so than having someone to chat to while collecting the mail, or to borrow a cup of sugar from, social connectedness plays a major role in preventing loneliness and depression,

according to the Department of Health – particularly for groups such as retirees and the elderly.

Residents at Ingenia Rental communities are proving that now, more than ever, it’s important to recognise the positive impact of “neighbourly‘’ behaviour by doing what they can to make life a little brighter for their neighbours.

Ingenia Rental resident Melanie Valdes has always been a community-focused individual and said that even

the simplest acts like smiling and saying hello could boost someone’s day.

“To me, being a good neighbour means offering to help wherever you can – I recently helped a new resident move in next door and not only was that helpful for them, but we got to have a really nice chat and connect as neighbours,” Ms Valdes said.

“Another one of my neighbours is an elderly lady and I know she doesn’t have access to a car, so whenever

I go grocery shopping, I always make sure to check what’s on her shopping list – I know it means a lot to her, especially now.’’

The 2020 theme for Neighbour Day was originally set to be “Social Connection” but has since been changed to “Creative Connection”and focuses on how Australians can be great neighbours and build relationships in a creative manner.

Visit www.ingeniarental. com.au.

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Upskill during downtime with free TAFE courses online A SUITE of 21 fee-free TAFE NSW short courses are available online to assist anyone across the state who wants to upskill during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said for people in lockdown it was a terrific opportunity to learn skills and stay occupied.

“We know the next six months are going to be difficult, and what we’ve done is announce that through TAFE there are 21 free courses you can do from

home to upgrade your skills or to acquire new skills.

“This is good news. It means people can start preparing for when these difficult times are over, and through TAFE NSW if you pop onto their website you can actually inquire how you can do one of these courses from home.

“And you can get qualified over a short period of time rather than just if you haven’t got a job or you’re not working from home.

“It’s an opportunity for

Living

you to upgrade your skills or acquire new skills so that you can enter or re-enter the workforce when you finish this difficult time.’’

Free courses include: • eMarketing for small business.

• Engaging customers using social media.

• Writing and presentation skills.

• Computing skills.

• Team leader skill set.

For more information and the full list of courses, phone 131 601.

Paws to think about your pet LIKE everyone else, the RSPCA is closely monitoring the coronavirus/COVID-19 situation.

The RSPCA website said: “We’re very aware of the possible risk to our people and impact on animals.

“It’s possible that minimising this risk may require some changes to our operations.

For helpful advice to avoid inconvenience, please check our website and social media (Facebook, Twitter) regularly.

Information on COVID-19 and companion animals There is no evidence that companion animals play a role in the spread of this human disease or that they become sick if they are exposed to the virus.

However, you should stay informed about how to minimise the effects of selfisolation or hospitalisation on your pets.

Pet owners can view all articles related to COVID-19 on the RSPCA Knowledgebase.

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the coming weeks.

1. Make sure that you have at least two weeks’ worth of food for your pet. If they are on any medications or a prescription veterinary diet, have at least a month’s stock of both.

For cats, ensure you have enough cat litter and if your dog does have to stay inside with you for a few weeks, consider having enough poo bags.

To keep your pet healthy, have at least a month of parasite prevention treatment.

Call your vet before visiting, to ensure the clinic has the food or medicine ready for you, to help with social distancing.

2. Contact and designate someone to look after your pet if you need to go to hospital.

Make sure they have a way to access your house and know your pets and their requirements.

Have all food clearly marked with feeding instructions.

If your pet is on medications, prepare instructions on what and when, and to make it easier

THINK AHEAD: Planning is the key to ensuring your loyal four-legged mates are looked after during these unpredictable times brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.

Picture: Steve Pohlner

have at least two weeks of medications pre-dispensed into labelled pill organisers.

Write up a day planner of your pet’s normal routine and quirks so that whoever is looking after it can keep its routine as stable as possible.

Have a call list that includes your veterinarian, alternative nearby veterinarian and available boarding facilities.

3. Gather up all the essential documents relating to your pet and have them easily accessible.

Make sure your microchip registration details are up to date and consider a secondary form of identification for your pet

such as a collar and tag.

Have a full list of emergency contacts, including your family and friends’ phone numbers and email addresses.

4. Research and contact local boarding or petminding facilities near you in the event that your pet requires emergency accommodation.

Ask them to email you their boarding paperwork so this can be pre-filled out and also send them any vaccination or registration paperwork in advance so that even a stranger could get them to safe accommodation.

Have appropriate

transport crates or leashes and place these within easy access.

5. If you and your pet do need to self-isolate, make sure you keep their mind and body active.

For cats, this includes at least 30 minutes of one-onone playtime or interaction; new toys that can be brought out for stimulation and indoor cat grass for nibbling on.

For dogs that are usually walked, you will have to find alternative ways to keep them active.

This could include lots of one-on-one games. Rotate dog toys and have a stock of new ones, play hide and

seek, teach them new tricks, and give them treat balls that make them work for the reward.

Post-Easter advice: Don’t leave chocolate, lollies or wrappers lying around. Methylxanthines, which are present in chocolate and include agents like caffeine and theobromine, are extremely toxic to dogs and cats.

Ingestion of chocolate can result in vomiting, diarrhoea, hyperactivity, seizures, increased heart rate and potentially death.

Xylitol, a sugar substitute, is another extremely dangerous ingredient.

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FRESH START: Nev Hyman with Vanuatuan children in the classroom built for them by Nev House following the devastating 2019 cyclone.

Fantastic plastic house Nev’s recycled landfill system building brand to be proud of Alison Houston IMAGINE if all our discarded plastics could be repurposed in an environmentally friendly way, taking tonnes of plastic out of landfill, creating jobs and quality affordable homes?

Seems too good to be true … until you listen to veteran Gold Coast surfboard manufacturing guru Nev Hyman. That’s something that, sadly, Australian governments seem unwilling to do.

“We take all seven codes of plastic waste and turn them into composites panels, architect-designed to become part of a modular house that can be built or removed in two days,” Nev said.

The houses are flatpack, with the panels made of particled plastic encapsulated in natural lignin, making it safe from leaching. This means the plastics don’t have to be “cleaned” before being made, Nev said, one of the

This Nev Houses building fits in with its Vanuatuan setting.

The final products used to build Nev Houses.

Choices in finishes are one example of the flexibility of the Nev House design.

major hurdles for existing plastic recycling.

“We use all the plastics other recyclers can’t,” Nev said. “Everyone’s saying we need to sort our plastic

there is no need for a concrete foundation – yet the houses are rated Category 5 cyclone-proof.

After the devastating 2019 cyclone in Vanuatu, his

recycling better, clean it better, that we need more bins, but back me and I’ll prove we don’t need that.”

The panels don’t need to be painted or rendered, and

latest business, Nev House, supplied homes and classrooms to Tanna Island.

In 2017 Nev won the coveted UK Pitch@Palace competition from more than

25,000 businesses worldwide.

As a result he has US, UK, European and South African governments “chasing him” to set up operations.

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Positivity best weapon Eva Bennett WITH all the drama going on with the coronavirus, would you rather stay cool-calmcollected or panickingparanoid-pessimistic?

How we constantly think affects our emotions and then our physical health, especially if we are stressed a lot of the time.

In fact, research has shown that 80 per cent of our illnesses are caused by the way we may constantly think in a negative way –

worry, anger, fear, etc. In fact, the book that helped me turn my life around 30 years ago was You Can Heal Your Body, written by Louise Hay in 1976 and reprinted many times since then.

I travelled around Australia a few years ago, giving a presentation I created, called The 4 Levels of Fitness, which showed people how the way we think – our mental health – affects the way we feel, which in turn affects our physical health, and how

social fitness also can keep us healthy.

A bit hard at the moment with all the social distancing we have to do! So it is really important to focus on our mental health during this health crisis.

When I was running presentation skills courses for many years, participants would often have stressful thoughts about forgetting the words of their speech.

So, early in the two-day course we would do some “legal sniffing’’. Using my

aromatherapy background, I would give each of the participants a few drops of rosemary essential oil (good for memory and flu) on a tissue. Then they walked around the room, saying to themselves: “I now remember the words of my speech.”

Amazing how much more confident and less stressed they became with their talks when they stopped telling themselves how they always forgot the words.

They were much more

effective being able to make regular eye contact with their listeners rather than needing to read the whole speech and not looking up at the audience.

So, catch any negative thoughts that may be running around in your mind about the coronavirus and change them to more positive ones, as you deepen your breathing and say a few times every day: “I now stay cool, calm and collected and look after my health.”

It’s better to strengthen

MIND OVER MATTER: Eva Bennett urges people to think positively for better mental and physical health.

your immune system with positive thoughts than let worry and panic weaken it.

Good luck and good health!

Patch stimulates cells for better blood flow BRAND INSIGHTS A SCIENTIFIC breakthrough in stem cell technology helps activate your own stem cells without the need for expensive injections, drugs, surgery or supplements.

Stem cells are the repair cells of your body.

The less stem cell activity you have, the faster you age and the slower you heal.

After seeing an article in the February 2020 edition of Seniors News on the LifeWave X39TM patch, Ron contacted independent distributor Jamie Morton and started on the patches on Sunday, February 16.

Ron, 71, lives at Hastings Point in NSW and shares his story.

“I had a car accident 10

years ago which led to deep vein thrombosis.

“That and complications with the blood thinners they initially prescribed me left me with circulation problems and constant swelling in my lower left leg.

“At times it was quite painful. After two weeks on the patches, the swelling in my left leg went down 50 per cent and the colour in my foot improved.

“Over the first seven to 10 days I was dreaming and sweating a lot.

“It felt like there was a kind of detox going on, but that settled and I’m sleeping well and feeling good now.

“I can feel the patches working and where my skin colour improves, moves around.

“I’m excited to see what

happens after another month.

“Jamie has been very supportive. I really appreciate his commitment to follow up and checking in to ensure I’m getting the help I needed.

“The patches are easy to use. I’m very happy with them and would recommend giving them a go.”

Jamie is an independent distributor for LifeWave and says: “LifeWave’s guarantee is very generous and I love what the patches have done for me.

“With the doctor or chemist, if it doesn’t work, that’s our problem. Not with LifeWave – return what’s left and you get a full refund.

“Another great product is the Glutathione patch –

GET ACTIVATED: Ron, 71, of Hastings Point, enjoyed great relief with improved circulation in his leg thanks to LifeWave X39TM patches, which activated his stem cells.

great for supporting our immune system at this time.

“Look up Glutathione on my Facebook page or on the

net. It’s amazing.’’

For more information, contact Jamie on 0401 607 972 or via email

at jamie@jcmconsulting .com.au, or go to Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ lifewavejcmorton/about/.

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‘‘

Money

Past market routs offer important takeouts for investors.

MARKET MAYHEM: Australian share prices have plummeted in the past month as the COVID-19 outbreak takes an increasing health and economic toll around the world. Avoiding the temptation to sell now, and instead securing well-priced shares, may pay off when the market bounces back.

Picture: Kazuhiro Nogi/AFP

Learn from history’s lessons Paul Clitheroe THE coronavirus outbreak puts us firmly in extraordinary times.

Mass lockdowns, social distancing and a widespread health threat are all new to us. But there is nothing new about volatility in investment markets.

Spending time bunkered at home, I took to researching previous market downturns.

It turns out there have been plenty over the past century, probably more than many people realise.

Fortunately, the years of positive returns have far

outnumbered – and outweighed – the down years.

Even so, if you drew a line graph of sharemarket movements over the past 100 hundred years, it would resemble a profile of the Himalayas, with plenty of ups and downs.

The difference is that with sharemarkets the long-term trend is progressively upward. Indeed, the outcomes of past market routs offer three important takeouts for investors.

1. Don’t sell at the bottom When we hear day after day about falls in share

values, it’s extremely tempting to sell out.

In fact, it can take nerves of steel to hang in. But hanging in makes a lot of sense.

COVID-19 may be a new bug, but since 2000 we’ve seen a number of serious viral outbreaks.

SARS (2002), MERS (2012) and swine flu (2009) have each had a negative impact on global equity markets.

But once the virus subsided – as it did in every case, markets took off. The catch is that to enjoy the lion’s share of the gains, you had to be in the market.

2. Consider portfolio rebalancing It may seem counterintuitive but now can be a good time to rebalance your portfolio.

Rebalancing means selling one type of investment and buying others so that you maintain your preferred weightings across different asset classes.

This ensures that your portfolio continues to reflect your goals and tolerance for risk.

Let’s not gild the lily.

Australian shares have dropped 22 per cent in the past month.

Red ink has been spilt

across the market, and while some sectors have fared better than others, it’s likely that your asset allocation is completely out of whack.

3. Embrace dollar-cost averaging The beauty of rebalancing is that it encourages us to buy low and sell high, and shares and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are offering exceptional value right now.

It’s understandable that you may not feel confident tipping a chunk of cash into the market at present.

The solution can be dollar-cost averaging – steadily drip-feeding your money into the market by

investing a set amount each fortnight, month or quarter.

It’s a great way to hedge your portfolio against market ups and downs.

As always, watch the fees you’re paying on your investments.

This is one aspect of your portfolio you have complete control over regardless of market conditions.

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

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NEW measures for the aged care sector have been unveiled as the Federal Government continues to strengthen Australia’s defence against COVID-19.

The National Cabinet agreed on temporary funding to support aged care providers, residents, staff and families.

Building on the last package of measures, additional funding of $444.6 million is expected to strengthen the industry, with specific mechanisms to

reinforce the aged care workforce. It will include: • $234.9 million for a COVID-19 “retention bonus’’ to ensure the continuity of the workforce for aged care workers in both residential and home care. This will mean a payment of up to $800 after tax per quarter – paid for two quarters – for direct-care workers.

• Two payments of up to $600 after tax per quarter – for two quarters – for those who provide care in the home.

• Payments will be delivered to providers to pay their workers, and part-time workers will be paid a prorata rate.

• $78.3 million in additional funding for residential care to support continuity of workforce supply.

• $26.9 million for a temporary 30 per cent increase to the Residential and Home Care Viability Supplements and the Homeless Supplement. This includes equivalent viability

funding increases for National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flexible Aged Care Program providers, multipurpose services and homeless providers.

• $92.2 million in additional support to home care providers and organisations that deliver the Commonwealth Home Support Program, operating services including Meals on Wheels. This will include services for people in selfisolation, and more.

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Try a slice of something nice IF YOU’VE caught the baking craze, then this sweet treat would be perfect alongside a cuppa. A delicious no-bake slice, it combines Jersey Caramels, Butternut Snap biscuits and cheesecake.

MAKES: 25 PREP: 5 hours 30 minutes COOK: 5 minutes

Ingredients 335g Butternut Snap Cookies 100g butter, melted

55g (¼ cup) caster sugar 500g cream cheese, at room temperature, chopped 300ml thickened cream 2 tsp vanilla extract 180g white chocolate, melted 2 tbsp boiling water 3 tsp gelatine powder 150g Jersey Caramels, chopped, plus extra, sliced, to decorate 55g (¼ cup, firmly packed) brown sugar

Method 1. Grease a square 20cm cake pan and line the base and sides with baking paper, allowing the paper to overhang the sides.

2. Place the biscuits in a food processor and process until they resemble fine crumbs. Add the butter and process until combined. Transfer to prepared pan and press firmly into the base. Place in the fridge until required.

3. Place the caster sugar, 250g cream cheese, 125ml (½

Healthy nuts and bolts slice

cup) cream and 1 tsp vanilla in the food processor and process until combined. Add the chocolate. Process until smooth.

4. Place 1 tablespoon boiling water in a small heatproof bowl. Sprinkle with 1 ½ teaspoons gelatine. Stir until the gelatine dissolves. Add to the cream cheese mixture and process until combined. Pour over the biscuit base. Place in the fridge for 1 hour or until the filling is just set.

5. Place the chopped caramels and 50ml of remaining WITH nuts, seeds and dried fruit, this healthy gluten-free baked slice makes for a filling morning or afternoon tea snack.

MAKES: 20 PREP: 15 COOK: 20

Ingredients 100g pitted fresh dates, chopped 150g (1 cup) salted peanuts 80g (½ cup) natural almonds, chopped 45g (¼ cup) pepitas 35g puffed rice 2 tbsp honey 2 tbsp almond butter 2 tbsp macadamia oil V1 - SEFE01Z01MA

cream in a small saucepan over a low heat. Cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

6. Place the brown sugar, remaining cream cheese, remaining vanilla and remaining cream in the food processor and process until combined.

Add the caramel mixture and process until smooth.

7. Place the remaining boiling water in a small heatproof bowl. Sprinkle over the remaining gelatine. Stir until the 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Method 1. Preheat oven to 160/140C fan-forced. Lightly spray a 20 x 30cm baking pan with oil and line the base and two long sides with baking paper.

2. Place the dates and 2 tablespoons boiling water in a small bowl. Set aside for 3 minutes to soak. Use a fork to coarsely mash.

3. Meanwhile, process the peanuts, almonds and pepitas in a food processor until coarsely chopped. Transfer to a large bowl. Add the puffed rice and stir to combine.

4. Place the date mixture,

gelatine dissolves. Add to the caramel cream cheese mixture and process until combined.

Carefully pour over the vanilla layer. Place in the fridge for 4 hours or until set.

8. Top the slice with extra caramels. Use the baking paper to carefully lift the cheesecake from the pan. Use a sharp knife to cut the slice into small squares to serve.

Recipe by Liz Macri Photo by Guy Bailey honey, almond butter, oil and cinnamon in a small saucepan. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add to the nut mixture and stir until well combined.

5. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with the back of a spoon.

6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a deep golden brown.

Set aside to cool completely in the pan.

7. Cut the slice into 20 pieces. Store in an airtight container for up to five days.

Recipe by Chrissy Freer Photo by Jeremy Simons

26

NEWS

APRIL, 2020//

SENIORS

Community notes

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

WITH the coronavirus preventing clubs from meeting, we welcome any submission that promotes your club’s aims, history and achievements.

Member profiles and photos are also most welcome. Please email your submissions to editor@seniors newspaper.com.au.

following the same nutritional value we place on all our meals. This is following guidelines from OF LIFE: Emergency Nursing Unit manager Carolynn Worthing and clinical nurse educator Megan Wicken with the Department of Health GIFT Woolgoolga Lions Club president Jean Vickery (far right), fellow Lions members and the $35,000 defibrillator donated to and Clubs Australia and we the Coffs Harbour Health Campus emergency department. will keep you informed as things change.

If you have any queries or vital piece of equipment that for its full support and “It is vital that these stay home if you are sick. questions regarding your could save lives. confidence in our club to COVID-19 assessment clinics The NSW Government delivery or keeping safe, “Defibrillators can operate the facility on its are not overwhelmed with also has the latest don’t hesitate to contact us absolutely save the life of behalf over many years.’’ people who are not in the information available for on 02 6568 2522. someone experiencing a The Woolgoolga Lions high-risk groups, which community and businesses: PROBUS CLUBS If you would like more cardiac arrest,” Ms Worthing Club has a long history of could result in delays health.nsw.gov.au/ Coffs City information about this topic, said. supporting Coffs Harbour identifying those most Infectious/alerts/Pages/ WE wish to advise that the phone Ashlee on “As soon as the Lions Hospital, with previous vulnerable,” Mr Dowrick coronavirus-faqs.aspx#sec2. general meetings normally 02 6568 2522 or email realised we needed this donations helping maternity, said. held at 10am on the fourth mail@lifetimeconnect equipment, they generously paediatric and renal “We are continuing to do BUY LOCAL Wednesday of each month .org.au. offered the donation. patients. everything we can to keep THE Coffs Coast is blessed at the Cavanbah Centre, “It’s important equipment Anyone wanting to join our staff, patients and the with an abundance of fresh Harbour Drive, Coffs WOOLGOOLGA LIONS that can make such a the Woolgoolga Lions Club, community safe.” produce and fabulous Harbour, have now been MAKE VITAL difference to our patients or volunteer their time on The assessment clinics are foodies who create gourmet cancelled until further DONATION and their families. the waste transfer roster, open at: Port Macquarie delights. notice. For further THE hardworking members “We are so grateful for the can send an email to Base Hospital, 10am to 4pm Many cafes and information contact Brian on of the Lions Club of support from a club whose woolgoolga@lionsdistrict weekdays; Coffs Harbour restaurants are open for 0413 854 106.

Woolgoolga have donated a volunteers have worked 201n1.org.au.

Health Campus, 10am to online or phone orders to much-appreciated very hard over the past 12 2pm weekdays; Kempsey take away or have meals MEALS DELIVERY IN defibrillator to Coffs Harbour months to raise the funds for COVID-19 District Hospital, 8am to delivered direct to your NAMBUCCA VALLEY Health Campus. this life-saving piece of ASSESSMENT CLINICS noon weekdays. door.

LIFETIME Connect is still The life-saving piece of equipment.”

NOW OPEN Outside of these hours, There are a number of delivering meals during the equipment for the Club president Jean THE Mid North Coast Local people who are unwell Facebook pages with coronavirus crisis. emergency department is Vickery said the Woolgoolga Health District (MNCLHD) should present to their local information on which Lifetime Connect Food valued at $35,000 and Lions Club was focused on has opened COVID-19 emergency department. businesses you can order Services are working with brings the club’s support for supporting its community, assessment clinics at Port In Port Macquarie and from: Coffs Harbour And Macksville Ex-Services Club the hospital to a remarkable and medical equipment was Macquarie, Coffs Harbour Kempsey, the clinics can be Surrounds Take Aways & to continue to provide $115,000 in the past five a great way to do that. and Kempsey. accessed via the hospital Deliveries; Bellingen frozen meals once a week years. Critical Care and “It was a great pleasure Chief executive Stewart emergency departments. In takeaway and delivery during the coronavirus crisis.

Emergency Nursing Unit for us to be able to donate Dowrick said the clinics were Coffs Harbour, the clinic is services; Woolgoolga and All meals will be from our manager Carolynn Worthing the defibrillator because we recommended for anyone open in the specialist on-call the Northern Beaches – basic menu but still said the defibrillator was a know it is going to make a returning from overseas parking area near the What’s happening and the difference in ED – for the who develop symptoms emergency department.

Urunga NoticeBoard. patients who might need the within 14 days of their For more details, call the We encourage you to equipment and for the return, and people who have MNCLHD Assessment Clinic #supportlocal businesses wonderful doctors and had close contact with a Hotline on 1300 001 956. during this time – #buylocal nurses who work there.” confirmed COVID-19 case The best way to protect and #shopcoffscoast.

Ms Vickery also paid and develop symptoms yourself from COVID-19 and tribute to the club’s within 14 days of last other respiratory viruses PLEASE NOTE: Council’s dedicated band of contact. Testing is also such as influenza is to: avoid Lifeguards will now be and volunteers who man the recommended for people touching your face; wash operating a surveillance-only Woolgoolga Waste Transfer admitted to hospital with your hands frequently for at service until the end of the Lady Cameo Funerals station every weekend. severe respiratory infection, least 20 seconds using soap surf season on April 26 at “Every dollar collected in even if they haven’t and water or an alcoholthe currently patrolled affordable and dignified funerals transfer station fees, apart returned from overseas based hand rub; cough and beaches of Sawtell, Park from taxes, goes back into travel, and for healthcare sneeze into a tissue, dispose Beach and Woolgoolga. secure funeral plans available our community, and we workers who have a immediately and wash your No flags will be deployed a large variety of timber have the volunteers, who respiratory illness or fever. hands; or cough and sneeze at these beaches. No other and environmentally friendly give up their weekends, to Current government into your elbow if a tissue is beaches will have cardboard coffins thank for that,’’ she said. advice is that people without not available; Avoid close surveillance, but all Coffs The Lions Club also is symptoms do not need to be contact with anyone with Coast beaches are currently or grateful to Coffs City Council tested. cold or flu-like symptoms; open.

SIMPLE & SINCERE FUNERALS

6651 2363

6651 4155

124 West High Street, Coffs Harbour

6999025ab

ALLIED FUNERAL HOME

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

PUZZLES

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ACROSS 7 Which character did Albert Finney play in the 1974 film Murder on the Orient Express? (7,6) 8 What disease is caused by dietary deficiency of Vitamin B1? (8) 9 What small construction houses pigeons and doves? (4) 10 What is an informal expression for “absolutely correct”? (4,2) 12 What is a corpse supposedly revived by witchcraft in certain African and Caribbean religions? (6) 14 In cloisonné work, what substance fills the divisions in the design? (6) 16 Which US president said “Politics is supposed to be the second oldest profession. I have come to realise that it bears a very close resemblance to the first”? (6) 18 What do the Swiss call their capital city? (4) 20 What is a filmy thread of spider’s web seen floating on the wind? (8) 22 Which 1982 television adaptation of a John Le Carré novel starred Alec Guinness? (7,6)

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DOWN 1 Sir Noel Coward appeared on stage at age 14 in which play? (5,3) 2 What type of layered rock got its name from the Greek for “split”? (6) 3 Juice from what succulent, thick-leaved plant was once used as a strong laxative? (4) 4 What drink is a mixture of wine and soda water? (8) 5 What term describes a TV comedy series with a continuing cast of characters? (6) 6 What is a short, heavy arrow shot from a crossbow? (4) 11 Which English actress was a mistress of Charles II, bearing him two sons? (4,4) 13 Which queen supported Columbus’s famous expedition of 1492? (8) 15 What is the capital of the Philippines? (6) 17 Which major river is navigable to oceangoing vessels as far as 3700km upstream? (6) 19 What was the first name of Lord Nelson’s mistress? (4) 21 What is a groove in the tread of a tyre to improve its grip? (4)

27 18/4

22

SUDOKU

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

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

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DOUBLECROSS 4

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

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10 11 12

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Down 1. Sudden raid (5) 2. Illuminated (3) 3. Fraudulent (4) 4. Relevant (9) 5. Stays (7) 8. Spurn (6) 11. Easily recalled (9) 13. Slipped back into bad habits (6) 14. Put in place (7) 16. Bet (5) 18. Unsightly (4) 20. Arid (3)

Across 6. A token amount (7) 7. At no time (5) 9. Inexpert actor (3) 10. Heavenly (9) 12. Having good intentions (4-7) 15. Ineffective, bungling (11) 17. Angry (colloq) (7,2) 19. Press tightly together (3) 21. Deceitfully (5) 22. Frightened (7)

SOLUTIONS

5x5 N E S T S

D R E S S

ALPHAGRAMS: DENIM, EAGLET, FREIGHT, GROUNDED, HINDSIGHT. GK CROSSWORD Across: 7 Hercule Poirot, 8 Beriberi, 9 Cote, 10 Spot on, 12 Zombie, 14 Enamel, 16 Reagan, 18 Bern, 20 Gossamer, 22 Smiley’s People.

Down: 1 Peter Pan, 2 Schist, 3 Aloe, 4 Spritzer, 5 Sitcom, 6 Bolt, 11 Nell Gwyn, 13 Isabella, 15 Manila, 17 Amazon, 19 Emma, 21 Sipe.

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

MINED LEGATE FIGHTER UNDERDOG HID THINGS

5x5 T

DOUBLECROSS

QUICK CROSSWORD Across: 6. Nominal 7. Never 9. Ham 10. Celestial 12. Well-meaning 15.

Incompetent 17. Steamed up 19. Jam 21. Slyly 22. Alarmed.

Down: 1. Foray 2. Lit 3. Fake 4. Pertinent 5. Remains 8. Reject 11. Memorable 13. Lapsed 14. Install 16. Wager 18. Ugly 20. Dry.

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Note: more than one solution may be possible.

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

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All puzzles © The Puzzle Company

TODAY: Good 15 Very Good 19 Excellent 23

shmo sitcom skim slim smith smock smolt

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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

S C A R P

WORD GO ROUND

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SUDOKU

ALPHAGRAMS

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