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WELCOME

APRIL-MAY, 2019// SENIORS

Our role as the elders

INDEX 3 News: Bigger and better show 4 Cover story: Dr Suzanne Packer 6 News: Welcome men on dance floors 10 Talk n Thoughts 12 News: Back into business for seniors 18 Community Group Guide 20 What’s On 21 Wanderlust 29 Wellbeing 35 Living 37 Money 39 Puzzles

21 Albany honours our Anzac history

29 Time for men to have a health talk

Gail Forrer Seniors group editor WELCOME Port Macquarie readers. This month, due to local demand our distribution area has increased to Port Macquarie – the area is reflected in our new front page area name, Mid North Coast. Seniors News journalist Tania Phillips has already been talking to people in the area and we look forward to publishing more local stories besides bringing relevant national stories to you. Our cover story features Senior Australian of the Year Dr Suzanne Packer. Journalist Tracey Johnstone interviewed Dr Packer in her Canberra home and I believe the description of her backyard gives us a special insight into the philosophy that guides her work with children. Her acceptance speech also furthered understanding to what had prompted her ongoing life’s work: “By the current measures our Australian children are not doing as well as they could – middle of the pack, certainly not leaders,” Dr Packer said. “If we want to improve, we adults are the ones who need to change. No more

belated apologies, we need to notice children, be curious about their lives – be it our own children, children in the neighbourhood or the children on Nauru. “We are a small but wealthy nation and we already have a reputation for punching above our weight, surely our children should be our first priority.” But life is many layered and focusing on another dimension, in this edition, our double-page feature highlights a new wave of seniors going back to business. Through various programs and grants, the government is supporting people who are looking for fresh ways to live and make a living in 2019. We have several case studies, so have a read – perhaps it will inspire you. I trust you’ll enjoy the read. Gail

CONTACT US General Manager Geoff Crockett – 0413 988 333 geoff.crockett@news.com.au Editor Gail Forrer – 1800 880 265 gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Executive Sue Germany – 0408 286 539 sue.germany@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Online Get your news online at www.seniorsnews.com.au Advertising, editorial and distribution enquiries Phone: 1300 880 265 or (07) 5435 3200 Email: advertising@seniorsnewspaper.com.au or editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Location: 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore 4558 Website: www.seniorsnews.com.au Subscriptions Only $39.90 for one year (12 editions) including GST and postage anywhere in Australia. Please call our circulations services on 1300 361 604 and quote “Coffs Harbour and Clarence Seniors Newspaper”. The Seniors Newspaper is published monthly and distributed free in northern New South Wales and southeast Queensland. The Seniors newspaper stable includes Toowoomba, Wide Bay, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Northern NSW, Coffs and Clarence and Central Coast publications. Published by News Corp Australia. Printed by News Corp Australia, Yandina. Opinions expressed by contributors to Seniors Newspapers are not necessarily those of the editor or the owner/publisher and publication of advertisements implies no endorsement by the owner/publisher.

Festival bringing culture to life

HISTORY: The Australian Heritage Festival launched at the Queensland Maritime Museum. (Photo, 1910)

THE Australian Heritage Festival launches across the country this week, bringing to life a wide range of Australian culture and history. Organised by the National Trust of Australia and the Australian Government, the festival brings together an array of events across the nation from April 18 – May 19 under the theme Connecting People, Places and the Past. Events across Australia will be held at historic

buildings, landmarks, shipwrecks and sacred sites as the festival aims to unite communities from all walks of life to recognise and celebrate heritage and culture. There will be ceremonies, song and dance, performance art, art in various media and artefacts, talks on books and stories, and guided tours of towns, places and spaces. The festival was first created with a vision of recognising and

celebrating the significance of the country’s natural, historic and indigenous heritage places and ensuring they are valued by Australians, protected for future generations and cared for by the community. Celebrate with a guided tour of one of the extraordinary places under the National Trust’s protection, such as a World Heritage-listed convict penal establishment (Cockatoo Island); ascend to the top

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of Australia’s oldest lighthouse (Macquarie Lighthouse); or explore military relics at Georges Heights, Mosman and North Head Sanctuary, Manly. More than 1000 events will be held nationally, with close to half a million visitors expected. For details on events across the country, go to nationaltrust.org.au/ explore

SENIORS \\APRIL, 2019

NEWS

Bigger and better show

A place to display talents and share learning and experience

‘‘

Tania Phillips

A STORM early last year put paid to the 2018 Maclean Show but Show Society president Brian Ferrie said you couldn’t keep a good show down and it will be back bigger and better than ever. Celebrating 127 years (give or take wars, floods and storms) the Maclean Show, to be held May 7 & 8, has always been an integral part of the Lower Clarence region. The society was formed to bring early settlers together to share farming knowledge and to show the district their achievements. The Agricultural and Industrial Show in Maclean is now, natural disasters willing, an annual attraction where farmers and industry workers can present their wares, but it also allows exhibitors from all walks of life to display their talents, gain knowledge and learn from fellow

Brian stepped in to replace the then president “for a couple of years” but that was 11 years ago

exhibitors. The event is run by a few dedicated committee members and a host of much-valued volunteers including Brian and his wife Louise. Brian stepped in to replace the then president “for a couple of years” but that was 11 years ago and he and Louise are still an integral part of the event and have been hard at work (with the other committee members and volunteers) for several

RACING FORWARD: Maclean's picturesque showground is a perfect place for competitions. (Inset) Show President: Brian Ferrie

weeks already as it comes up to showtime. While he’s been president for 11 years, Brian is a born and bred local so he’s been involved a lot longer than that. “It was exciting when we were kids – I supposed I’ve missed shows since then but I don’t remember

when,” he laughed. Last year a storm early in the year severely damaged a pavilion, forcing the society to pull the pin on the main show for the year but that doesn’t mean the show didn’t go on – sort of. “The showman’s guild still wanted to come and do sideshow alley,” Brian

said. “So we decided to put on a carnival – it was a gold coin donation on the day. It ended up being a great day.” But the main show is back for 2019. “The pavilion is still damaged but we will have a big marquee this year,” Brian said.

The two-day event will feature a full program of ring events as well as sideshow alley, fireworks on the second (and main) day, a smash-up derby, performances by Adam Eckersley and Brooke McClymont, and even an Outback extravaganza. For full details, head to www.macleanshow.org.au

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COVER STORY

APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

Helping kids grow up well

Dr Packer’s life is dedicated to next generation Tracey Johnstone NESTLED in the corner of a summer-dried garden in Canberra is a magical play space for young ones to imagine, create and evolve in safety. Its guardian is pediatrician and Senior Australian of the Year 2019 Dr Suzanne Packer AM. There are no brick walls, just a little timber path winding its way under the thick brush, a mushroom patch, a fish pond, sandpit, touches of folk art and a boisterous cubby house. For the more active there is hopscotch painted on the brick pathway nearby.

The quaint welcome sign calls the neighbourhood school children to discover what is within, under the careful guidance of an adult. “My focus is children in Australia,” Dr Packer said. Her new role of Senior Australian of the Year will give the children’s guardian a greater voice. She will be travelling Australia for the Department of Health sharing her message, “How can we grow them (children) to be the best possible adults for Australia.” “It takes more than the family to do that,” Dr Packer said. And she has grandparents in her

sights. “We have kids living very different lives and the role of grandparents in these lives has become more critical,” she said. “Grandparents, despite their busy lives, tend to have more time than parents and they have this one-eyed devotion to these special little people, which is not spoiling them but actually helping the child identify itself as an individual.” What we do to them, for them and with them Dr Packer will be encouraging senior Australians to think how they can enhance the lives of their grandchildren. Those sharing interactions will help to

WONDER LAND: Dr Suzanne Packer AM in her Canberra garden. Photo: Tracey Johnstone

develop the child’s brain. Reinforcement, reassurance, embellishment – each she

says goes towards their emotional and cognitive development. Dr Packer’s work with

the Child at Risk Unit at Canberra Hospital exposed her to many vulnerable and damaged

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Be wise and immunise Why should you get the ﬂu shot each year? Did you know that the influenza virus is constantly changing? Recent research has also discovered that the effectiveness of the vaccine does diminish over time. Therefore it is best to maintain your annual vaccination program to ensure your full coverage. You can receive your flu shot from your local doctor, participating pharmacies and other immunisation providers. The flu vaccination is free for people who are classed as high risk. This can include: • Persons over the age of 65 • Persons who identify as ATSI • Persons who suffer with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart & lung disease, low immunity • Persons who are pregnant Prevention is definitely the best cure as colds and influenza can easily be spread from person to person through infected droplets in the air or via our hands. Good hygiene is the single most important way to prevent the spread and protect you from these harmful bugs. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, particularly after touching your nose or mouth and before handling any food items. Sneeze or cough into a tissue and dispose of this immediately. Signs and symptoms of a cold and the flu are very similar. These can include coughing, fevers, sore throat, sneezing, blocked or runny nose, congestion and general muscle aches and pains. The main difference is the symptoms are milder for a cold and tend to only last a few days. The symptoms of influenza tend to be more severe and last a lot longer. The recommended treatment for influenza remains unchanged: • Stay in bed • Be sure to drink plenty of fluids • Paracetamol to assist with the control of fevers, aches and pains • Avoid exposure to dust, smoke and fumes • Avoid alcohol Always remember to consult with your doctor if the symptoms get worse. Particularly if you are suffering with a severe headache, you have difficulties breathing or you are coughing up coloured phlegm. 6882043ai

SENIORS \\APRIL, 2019

COVER STORY

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You cannot underestimate the value of caring, involved grandparents

children and their families. “I followed up a number of these kids until they

were adults,” she said. “You cannot underestimate the value of caring, involved

grandparents.” She cautions that you can’t assume all grandparents will be great carers. Some of them are part of the pathology, she says, potentially looking for what the kids can do for them rather than what they can do for the kids. We’re sitting at Dr Packer’s kitchen table, which looks out to an array of colourful hanging baskets and the play area, as we chat about her national award, which celebrates her contribution to the well-being and safety of children. The guardian is retired from her pediatric practice but that’s about the only retiring the 76-year-old is doing. Dr Packer is vice-president of the National Association for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect and chair of the Mr Fluffy

Dr Suzanne Packer AM with Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Asbestos Response community group. What’s next ? In retirement she has plans – to write some children’s booklets about her time as a little girl when there wasn’t plastic or television and the milk was delivered by horse and cart. “It’s about getting the kids to think that there was good and bad in history,” she said. It’s what she

encourages other grandparents to do, to record memories from their youth and share them with younger generations – how else will they learn what it was like for their grandparents? Dr Packer is also a carer for her sister, Prue, 75, who has dementia and is confined to a wheelchair. And much to her delight, she is heavily involved in the lives of her

Photo: Salty Dingo

four grandchildren – one aged three, two under two and one under one. Within her vibrant and complex life that has Dr Packer pulled in many directions each day and with the background sounds of children joyfully playing in her secret garden, she retains in the forefront of her mind: “No adult can say, ‘Oh yeah kids, nothing to do with me.’ Kids are to do with everybody.”

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Welcome to men on dance floors FORGET dancing with the stars – the ladies at the Port Macquarie Senior Citizens Club just want a few more men to dance with. “We need more male dancers,” club treasurer Alan Ross explained. “We have plenty of ladies – but they’d like more dance partners. If we have 20 people at dancing then 12 of them are women. “I can assure you that all men, whether dancers or not, will be very warmly welcomed (as will all women) and the ladies just love to teach new men the dances at the Monday morning beginners’ dance which is very popular, with some 50-60 people attending each week.” Joining fee is just $10 and annual membership is $5 thereafter so it is really affordable for all and lots of new friendships are made.

Senior Citizens Club has a host of activities “We make every effort to keep our fees as the present low rates so that our members can get to as many activities as they want each week. In fact, our membership and activity fees have not increased for over 10 years,” Alan said. “The club also puts on two full-day bus trips (includes bus and lunch) and three great luncheons annually, all of which is subsidised for everyone attending. “Our Mother’s Day Luncheon on May 11 costs just $20 per person for which they get nibblies, all drinks, a two-course hot lunch, tea/coffee, entertainment and the ladies receive a bottle of wine or box of chocolates.” Alan – who joined the club when he retired 12 years ago to learn to dance – said dancing new vogue, waltz, tango and swing were some of the club’s most popular

activities. Unfortunately, bad knees put an end to Alan’s dancing career a couple of years ago. “I still miss it though,” he said but his job as club treasurer – a job he took on a decade ago – keeps him busy. The Senior Citizens Club has more than 450 members and is often the first place people come to when they retire to the region. For just $2 you get a cup of tea, biscuits and your activity. And while it’s called senior citizens, don’t think that it’s a room full of pensioners. “It’s a popular misconception that we’re all old fuddy duddies,” Alan explained. “Actually, we start at 50, though with permission from the committee we have had 46 and 47-year-olds.” He said members were still out there and active and in their 50s and early

60s and weren’t all pensioners. “Of course we have older members too,” he said. “We have a man who is turning 95 and he’s still dancing every Tuesday.” And it’s not just dancing – there are bus trips a few times a year and a whole slew of other activities. “We have activities seven days a week – darts, indoor bowls, scrabble, Bunka, embroidery, lace,” he said. “Our dancing is really popular we have New Vogue dancing Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday and line dancing twice a week.” The most popular session of the week is the Monday morning beginners’ class, starting at 9.30am, which attracts 40-50 people a week. For further information, drop into the Munster Street headquarters or phone 6583 7149.

SENIOR DANCERS: Port Macquarie seniors dancing club’s recent Valentine’s Day ball.

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Tania Phillips

SENIORS \\APRIL-MAY, 2019

NEWS

Willing to lend a hand

Own experience builds compassionate heart Tania Phillips

NINETEEN years ago, singer-songwriter John Swan was laying on the floor sure he would die, his liver shot from drink and drugs. He was determined to get clean and to live so he put himself through detox at home. “It was everything you see in the movies and worse,” John admitted. But it stuck. “I haven’t had a cigarettes or drugs or alcohol in 19 years.” Now at 67, a bout with cancer last year has made him even more determined – not just to live but to help others and it is something he obviously excels at. The man better known as Swanee, and maybe even as older brother of equally reformed hardliving rocker Jimmy Barnes, has just moved to Coffs Harbour and is hoping to continue playing music and helping people in his new home town. Named Senior

Australian of the Year in 2015 and earning an OAM in 2016 for his work with charities, John – best-known for his solo hits Lady What’s Your Name and If I Were A Carpenter – has been determined to use the past 19 years to help others over the years becoming patron of many organisations including Little Heroes (which helps seriously ill children). He said the move from South Australia had been prompted by his wife Virginia who had recently lost her mother and needed her own change, finding it after falling in love with a house in Coffs during a visit to see her sister who already lived in the area. “She has moved so many places for me, if I had to be in Melbourne she moved there, I thought It was time,” he said. “I have been in Coffs Harbour six months now and I love it.” For Swanee, moving to the Mid North Coast has given him breathing space

and a chance to work on his anxiety disorder but while he is still working and enjoying gardening and being involved with his charities outside the area, he wants more. “I have the sort of job these days where I might fly to Sydney or Perth for a gig once a week and then come home,” he explained. “While I’m here I don’t want to just be here sitting on my bum. “I want to start doing things in Coffs Harbour. I went out at Christmas time to see if I could help or sing for the homeless but they already had someone. “You can’t just walk in somewhere and say I have shiny gold No.1 albums and my brother is Jimmy Barnes.” He said he wanted to let people know he was living in the area and willing to help. Any charity wishing to contact him can do so through Swanjohn001@ gmail.com or through his Facebook page.

CHANGEMAKER: Musician John Swan has made his home in Coffs Harbour, and is hoping to make a difference.

If you really care about Australia’s future, then you can safely Vote 1 for Alexander Stewart. DON’T vote for pseudo-independent Oakeshott DON’T vote for the incompetent National Party. Can I represent Labor voters? Well, I've been on the management committee of the Trade Union of Engineers and Scientists. I’m grateful for worker conditions won through our Old Labor legacy. I've run a consultancy for 16 years, I have coached small businesses using Gerber’s E-myth method. Therefore small business people can know that I understand their issues. Those who care about the Environment can safely vote for me, because for 11 years I worked in senior positions in the EPA, so I understand the real issues in water, air, land etc. Older voters can vote for me, because aged 68, I have experiences in 50 years of a wide variety of jobs. Unlike Oakeshott, I am not a mere lawyer, with almost no experience in real-life jobs. You can find my Party’s policies at www.unitedaustraliaparty.org.au Feel free to contact me on 0438 877 941 or write to PO Box 2 Stuarts Point 2441 Written by Alexander Stewart and Authorised by Clive Palmer, 240 Queen Street, Brisbane

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Some voters are asking - Did Rob Oakeshott act in the national best interest? Among a largely Engineering career, I've worked for six MPs in four Parties. I've seen how Parliament really works to benefit both sides of politics, while shafting ordinary people. I was horrified that Oakeshott, elected as an Independent, then voted to support the worst Labor government in our history throughout its disastrous 3-year term. Labor's policies on electricity, high taxes and increased living costs will harm you. Can you risk Oakeshott voting with Labor again? I'm passionate about our National Interest, and I’m not afraid to tackle the big issues that both sides of politics avoid. As an Engineer, I actually make decisions based on logic, reason, scientific evidence and public benefit -- shocking! Can farmers and National Party people safely vote for me? Well, while working 7 years in western NSW, I founded and led 2 farmer assistance organisations. I almost stopped the destructive Dairy Industry Deregulation legislation in year 2000.

NEWS

APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

A healing, happy story TimeSlips story-telling program helps those with memory loss

Tania Phillips IMAGINE going on a journey to outer space or a trip to Paris shopping for the day – it is all part of a day’s work for Timeslips Lisa Hort. Lisa presents TimeSlips, a creative story-telling program, at Port Macquarie-Hastings Library every second month. The program is aimed at engaging people living with memory loss and helping them learn new skills. The free four-week program is held from 1.30-2.30pm each Thursday in the Library Meeting Room and will be held throughout the month of May. Lisa, a certified TimeSlips facilitator, said the program aimed to connect people, share stories and encourage social opportunities in a fun, relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Developed in the US by

Anne Basting, Professor of Theatre at the Peck School of Arts, TimeSlips began in 1998 and became an independent non-profit organisation in 2013. Based in Milwaukee, the program now has facilitators in 44 states and 15 countries.

‘‘

The program aims to connect people, share stories and encourage social opportunities... “TimeSlips is a creative story-telling method that allows meaningful moments with and for people with memory loss,” Lisa said. “It opens story-telling to everyone by replacing the pressure to remember with encouragement to

MEANINGFUL MOMENTS: Lisa Hort runs TimeSlips, a creative story telling program for those living with memory loss, both in the community through the Port Macquarie-Hastings Library or in aged care facilities. imagine.” Lisa was offering the program (and continues to do so) to aged care facilities, particularly to dementia wards, however she wanted to open it up

to the wider community and reach people who were still living at home and so she approached the library last year. She said that as well as offering entertainment

and fun for those with memory loss, it was also a chance for carers to take a short 45 minute break and use the library facilities or go across the road for a coffee or even

stay and enjoy the program too. Booking is essential and carers should phone the library on 6582 8755 or prtlib@mnclibrary.org.au.

Meet Pat Conaghan

A true community champion, not a career politician 3 Born and raised in Kempsey 3 Former cop of 12 years before becoming a police prosecutor

3 Small business owner and lawyer at Conaghan Lawyers

3 Worked as a pro-bono lawyer at women’s shelters, youth groups and community legal centres

3 Father of two, raising his family in Port Macquarie with wife Ilona

3 True community champion Authorised by P Conaghan, National Party of Australian – N.S.W., 84 Horton Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

SENIORS \\APRIL, 2019

NEWS

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APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

Talk 'n' thoughts

Nat. Seniors agenda

Election is a chance to address health, wellbeing, finances FIXING pensioner poverty and the aged care crisis, better dental care and eliminating chronic home care waiting lists are key initiatives older Australians are demanding of candidates this federal election. Leading advocacy group National Seniors Australia launched its Federal Election 2019 Policy Priorities of Older Australians, cautioning candidates that 30 per cent of all voters were aged 60-plus and were demanding practical solutions to a range of issues. Chief Advocate Ian Henschke said the election was a national watershed opportunity to rectify years of policy neglect and stagnation on seniors’ health, wellbeing, finances and security. These were systemic issues all but forgotten in both the Federal Budget and Budget Reply. He said the election policies were a sensible investment in the health and safety of older Australians and would

enable government to better manage public spending in the ballooning areas of health and aged care. “In this election, we are calling on all political parties to adopt our policies to lift age pensioners out of poverty, cut health costs, ensure older Australians receive the aged care they deserve, and end the erosion of retirement income,” Mr Henschke said. He said the poor standard of living of many pensioners was a national disgrace requiring swift action by whichever party won government in the election, to ensure older Australians in need were afforded a fair-go, respect and practical support. “Our policies address the essentials of life and top of the list is affordable dental care,” Mr Henschke said. “Poor oral health is linked to chronic diseases, including stroke and heart disease, but is out of reach of many pensioners and those in

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Our policies address the essentials of life and top of the list is affordable dental care aged care. “Along with a growing chorus of respected health professionals, National Seniors is demanding a funding boost for dental care. “We want a scheme that provides an annual subsidy to help maintain dental health.” Taking politics out of the age pension was another key policy and National Seniors wanted the establishment of an Age Pension Tribunal to independently set the age pension rate. Mr Henschke said the tribunal would take responsibility for calculating a fair and adequate pension rate and any supplements based on need and circumstance. “Its decisions would be accepted without debate

in the same way monetary policy is set by the Reserve Bank,” Mr Henschke said. “This, along with cutting the age pension taper rate from $3 to $2, would help ensure a better standard of living for more Australians in retirement. “The current government’s lifting of the taper rate in January 2017 had a punitive impact on older Australians, discouraging them from saving for retirement, and must be reversed,” Mr Henschke said Assisting pensioners to access housing and better connect to internet services were also important ways to alleviate pensioner poverty, because one helped provide a roof over their head and the other a window to the world.

Mr Henschke said the private rental market was out of reach for many older people but could be improved by lifting the maximum rate of Commonwealth Rent Assistance. “The maximum rate of assistance could be set by our proposed Age Pension Tribunal so pensioners who rent receive enough income to meet reasonable living costs, no matter where they live,” he said. Summary: ■ Fix pension poverty ■ Establish an Independent Age Pension Tribunal ■ Increase the maximum rate of Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA) ■ Provide a subsidy to connect to the NBN or another appropriate internet service ■ Expand the provision of basic dental care for pensioners, including those in aged care ■ Address aged care deficiencies ■ Triple the number of level 3 and 4 home care packages

■ Require all aged care providers to publish staff-to-resident ratios ■ Ensure all aged care staff in direct care roles have basic dementia training ■ Increase income in retirement ■ Retain access to franking credits for self-funded retirees ■ Reduce the asset test taper rate from $3 to $2 ■ Exempt up to $250,000 of home sale proceeds from the age pension means test ■ Arrest rising health costs ■ Require all specialists to publish fees on a public register and ensure that all GPs make patients aware of choice when referring to a specialist ■ Limit private health insurance premium increases to no more than CPI until reforms take effect ■ Protect pensioners from future rises in energy costs ■ Reinstate indexation of the Energy Supplement ■ Improve Centrelink wait times

LABOR’S RETIREE

Labor wants to tax 8,285 local retirees – taking up to 30 per cent of the income from our seniors who have worked hard all their lives. It’s just not fair, and we need to send a message to Labor that it’s not on. Authorised by R Cadell, National Party of Australia – N.S.W., Level 2, 107 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW 2000

SENIORS \\APRIL-MAY, 2019

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Our Mid North Coast has been neglected for too long We live in these beautiful north coast river valleys and we all treasure the landscape. But it’s coming under threat as never before – from expanding development, land clearing and climate change. This needs to be a huge priority for us. Coffs Paciﬁc Highway bypass should have been ﬁnished 30 years ago. Let’s get on with it and get it done.

back our small businesses and frustrating the community. I will focus on growing the number of compassionate and well-skilled individuals working

“Freedom comes from being independent of any outside inﬂuences and stresses, and I acknowledge this as a goal of a healthy, happy retirement. Indeed, I see the same in politics. Our freedom comes when we are not owned by outside inﬂuences, and when we are independent. It is the same goal in politics as it is in retirement!”

Regional small businesses deserve to compete on an equal footing with the rest of the world. If given the opportunity, we can lead the world in renewable energy and climate change solutions. I will ensure our NBN and mobile phone coverage equals the best in Australia so it isn’t an embarrassment that’s holding

in our largest growth markets for jobs within our region; aged care and allied health. These sectors are crucial for future quality care and the reputation of our region. I will champion education so that our children and grandchildren can

have the option of staying at home and become doctors or plumbers or app designers. And I want to see them bring that talent and training to the kinds of jobs local businesses need ﬁlled. I will make sure we have timely access to desperately needed services. Health, disability, and aged care are crucial for so many of us here on the Mid North Coast. We all deserve to know we can be looked after with care and dignity. We want that for our parents, grandparents, family and friends as well. Government policy that puts people through hoops when they are already under stress is not good for the wellbeing of our communities. I’m running to be your Federal MP because I feel strongly that honesty and integrity have gone missing in the way we are being represented. I will be the person whose job is to represent you.

Vote 1 Rob Oakeshott Federal Independent Candidate for Cowper

Why elect me to represent you? I am the only candidate in this electorate with a track record of being a Member of Parliament and getting results both as a State and Federal Member of Parliament. When Port Macquarie was part of my Lyne electorate (electoral boundaries have since been redrawn) I secured critical funding for the Port Macquarie Base Hospital upgrade, Charles Sturt University expansion, four Paciﬁc Highway by-passes, three local airport upgrades, and grants for many community projects. I am a long-term resident of the Mid North Coast. I have lived in Port Macquarie for 26 years. I believe in the potential of this beautiful part of the world and I have shown a willingness to work hard and make sure our regions needs are not ignored by Government. I will connect with the communities in this region and listen to them, rather than bend to a party structure.

What I stand for

BETTER ACCESS TO SERVICES: Standing up for regional Australia has been a consistent theme in my political life. I am driven by a belief that we need better access to services like transport, communications, health and education. We should not have to accept second best because we are not living in a big city.” SENSIBLE DECISION MAKING: This seems like such an obvious quality to expect from an MP and yet it is so rarely on offer. I believe in making sound decisions by seeking out and listening to the community and respecting expert advice. I then make transparent, evidence-based decisions. DECENCY: I will always speak with decency and, even more importantly, act with decency. I have learnt to rise above the insults, name-calling and divisive language we hear too much of right now. RESPECTFUL COMMUNITIES: I believe in treating everyone with respect regardless of their age, background, colour or circumstance. I reject any politics or policies that discriminate against one or more sections of the community.

Authorised by Rob Oakeshott, 104 Horton St, Port Macquarie

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APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

Back into business for seniors

Older people riding a fresh career wave WHICHEVER title you want to use – silverpreneur, olderpreneur, seniorpreneur or just simply entrepreneur – these seniors are growing into an economic force in Australia. They’re the innovators, job seekers and risk takers of the over-50s who want, need, dream of building financially viable businesses whether they are sole operators or become small or large-scale employers. La Trobe University Professor of Entrepreneurship Dr Alex Maritz said these senior entrepreneurs were essential to the Australian economy. “People are living longer,” Dr Maritz said. “Straight away, what does that say to you? We can work longer, we can be active in business for longer and they want to be.” He reports senior entrepreneurs are contributing about $11.9 billion per annum to the Australian economy. The Benevolent Society’s Older Australians campaign director Marlene Krasovitsky said the senior entrepreneurship phenomenon was not limited to Australia. “It’s one we are watching with great interest,” Ms Krasovitsky

said. “The Federal Government is starting to recognise that entrepreneurship is not only about young people, there is a very significant role for older people to play as well.” In January the Federal Government poured money into the further development of its Entrepreneurship Facilitators network across Australia. The funding is for the network of 20 professionals tasked with helping mature-age Australians prepare for self-employment. Ms Krasovitsky said through the work of The Benevolent Society’s EveryAGE Counts campaign, they had evidence that ageism often happened in the work environment. “It’s in that context that we look at a range of initiatives,” she said. “Certainly, self-employment or starting up a new business is an attractive option for many older people to continue contributing to the workforce in the economy and to continue to get that sense of meaning and purpose that work brings.” Why start-up? Becoming an entrepreneur is often driven by necessity, opportunity or passion. “Traditionally people think as a retiree they

have stopped work,” Dr Maritz said. “So what do they do now? They go get themselves a little sideline job to supplement their income. That is true but that is not your stereotype senior entrepreneur.” They are more often serious entrepreneurs, with their age irrelevant to their work choice. Entrepreneurship is often a high-risk environment. It requires a person to be proactive, innovative, opportunityobsessed, willing to draw on their life experiences, learn on the run and use whatever resources there are at hand, including their business and friendship networks. Having enough money to start up a business is one of the biggest hurdles for entrepreneurs. “Senior entrepreneurs in Australia start 14,000 new businesses each year,” Dr Maritz said. Anecdotal evidence says about as many close down each year. A hobby that pays Maree Machin’s business, Telltale Designs, bucks that trend. Her “cottage” business is a year old next month and still in the black. The Sunshine Coast home-based business owner has experienced past start-up failure, so this time she did her numbers to ensure the

HELPER: Phil Daly, of BuildGrowRun, supports senior entrepreneurs going into small business.

LaTrobe University professor Dr Alex Maritz, professor of entrepreneurship. business was going to make money. She had a clear picture in her mind of what she wanted to do and how to go about it. “I also got my supply chain organised and did some market testing,” Ms Machin said. Her success came from limiting the amount of money put into getting the

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business going and in using her small business background and personal network to grow the business, which up-cycles yacht sails into bags. “It puts together everything I love – the ocean, up-cycling and it feels good and has a great story,” Ms Machin said. “I am doing something

good for the environment, it aligns with the heart and stays in the black.” Her success, she said, was in starting small and keeping the business tight. “If I grow it, I will then need to go into the grant space,” Ms Machin said. Not everyone has the capital like Ms Machin to pursue a new business

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Money for Jam seniorpreneur pilot program members with ribbons printed by Sharon Carroll.

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Telltale Designs owner Maree Machin is celebrating being in the black after the first year in business.

Senior entrepreneurs are contributing about $11.9 billion per annum to the Australian economy. It’s free and open to anyone, no matter why they want to set up a business or whether is it going to be micro, small or medium-sized. “I think a lot of people may have an idea and may have even started the business but often they don’t have all the skills to run the business themselves,” Mr Daly said. “In Australia we have a

IT consultant JC Shin with the Parkapiki team Adrian Adams (middle) and Neil Mackenzie (right). failure rate up around 75 per cent in businesses in the first three years. “Often there isn’t sufficient support there for people going into small business. “They need assistance in planning and organising things, marketing and having a general vision of what they are trying to achieve by developing

their business.” Micro steps to battle homelessness Some people, such as Sharon Carroll, are pushed into entrepreneurship. She was retrenched from her job, suffered depression as a result and then found herself homeless. Ms Carroll had worked

were pulled into their enterprise as a result of Mr Mackenzie discovering there wasn’t a single website with information on outdoor activities around Adelaide. It sparked his passion for developing a go-to answer. Mr Adams was the obvious partner. They received seed funding from the South Australian Government through its 2017 D3 Digital Challenge, which was run through the Office of the Ageing. The outcome was the challenge-winning website Parkapiki.com, which lists parks, outdoor places and events promoting health and well-being for older South Australians. “We wouldn’t have done it if there wasn’t an opportunity to make money,” Mr Mackenzie said. “The original business model didn’t work. “The underlying reason is we invested all the funds and time into developing the platform. It was a conscious decision to do that rather than providing a cheap product. “We wanted a quality product but now we have no money to market it. We have got to think of ways to earn money that we can reinvest in telling people this product actually exists.” Is it for you? Mr Daly said not all people in their 60s wanted to go into graceful retirement. “I like working in doing what I’m doing,” he said. “Dealing with entrepreneurs and people in small business, there is a lot of positive energy around that. “Research indicates that a lot of baby boomers don’t want to retire.” Dr Maritz concluded: “Entrepreneurship isn’t for everybody. Going out on your own can be very stressful. “Entrepreneurs don’t fail, their ventures do. It’s not about failing. It’s about learning failure.” 6931193ad

idea, nor the business skills to bring the idea to fruition. However there are support networks, grant opportunities and organisations, such as the government’s EFs, that are available to seniors. Help is at hand One of the EFs, Phil Daly of BuildGrowRun, said there was a huge demand for the EF program.

in many places but hadn’t acquired any specific work skills. Throughout this tumultuous period, Ms Carroll kept hold of a ribbon printing machine she had purchased several years before but had been unable to work out how to use properly. When the Victorian Government’s think tank Per Capita offered her the chance to join its Money for Jam program, she leapt at it. The program’s goal is to empower older women to earn as they age through micro-enterprise. Project leader Myfan Jordan explained that through class-based learning and a smartphone app, the pilot program members – all of whom had experienced homelessness – were given training in core business skills and personal growth. Money for Jam gave Ms Carroll sufficient business skills and confidence to unpack the old printing machine and use it to create a micro-business that is helping her rebuild her financial base. “I got so much more out of doing the course than I thought I would,” Ms Carroll said. “What has been achieved since the course has been amazing. There haven’t been any great sales but I have got my ribbons out there.” She has started to get orders and is in the process of developing a website. Just as importantly, Ms Carroll has found the confidence to get out among the community talking up her micro-business, happily handing out her unique business card printed on a ribbon. “It’s been small steps – no leaps and bounds but it’s all been extremely positive and all forward steps,” she said. Passionate about well-being Neil Mackenzie and colleague Adrian Adams

PHONE 02 6653 1577 Friday 10th May - Tickets | $38 - Doors open @ 7.30pm Waves Café:

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APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

Born leader in spotlight A funny, insightful show on Paul Keating Tania Phillips

SHARP WIT: Jonathan Biggins stars as Paul Keating in The Gospel According To Paul. Photo: Breatt Boardman

“Biggins almost out– Keaters Keating... If only we had someone this clever running the country.” Lloyd Bradford Syke, Crikey

“ONE man in a 3D unauthorised autobiography written by someone else.” That’s how Jonathan Biggins describes his new one-man show about Paul Keating. The show, The Gospel According To Paul, is wowing crowds and selling out during its current season. Biggins has just finished a sell-out run, in Canberra no less, and will end with an already fastselling Opera House season – but first he is bringing Paul in all his suit-wearing, clock-loving, wit and wisdom to the Glasshouse in Port Macquarie on Friday, May 10. Writing and starring in a show about Keating isn’t much of a stretch for Biggins. He’s almost made a career out of

playing the sharp-witted former Prime Minister in recent years. He’s well-known for his Keating work thanks to the long-running Sydney Theatre Company success story The Wharf Revue. “In all my years writing and performing for the revue, one character has remained a constant favourite of the audience: Paul Keating,” he said. “Love him or hate him, he is universally recognised as a leader who not only had a vision for Australia but could articulate it, fight for it and, most importantly, deliver it. “A razor-sharp wit who could destroy opponents with words alone, a romantic and a melancholic who bestrode the public stage yet remained intensely private. “I can’t think of a more entertaining or significant figure in recent Australian

history with whom to spend an evening. All iceberg, no tip.” It’s clear the audiences weren’t the only ones who admired the Boy from Bankstown and it’s hard not to hear the tone of admiration in Biggins’ voice as he talks about both Keating the man and The Gospel According To Paul. Biggins hopes he has created a funny, insightful and occasionally poignant portrait of Keating, the man who – as he tells it – single-handedly shaped contemporary Australia. Not bad for a man who left school at 14 and never went to university. The Gospel According To Paul attempts to showcase the ego, rhetoric and withering wit of the man Australia is still fascinated with. For more, go to glasshouse.org.au/ gospel2019.

OW POST SH

Q&A

WITH AN JONATH S BIGGIN

Beethoven’s Third Symphony was a musical revolution and remains one of Beethoven’s greatest compositions.

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One of Australia’s favourite performers, Jonathan Biggins, is Paul Keating – visionary, reformer and rabble-rouser – in The Gospel According to Paul. Jonathan Biggins’ performance as Paul Keating is well known from the long-running Sydney Theatre Company success story, The Wharf Revue. This production is touring Australia to rave reviews, standing ovations and sold-out houses! A night not to be missed.

*Transaction fees may apply

GLASSHOUSE SEASON 2019

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SYDNEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA SLAVA GRIGORYAN AND BEETHOVEN’S EROICA

Tickets from $59.90 *Transaction fees may apply

FOR BOOKINGS: 02 6581 8888 or glasshouse.org.au Cnr Clarence & Hay Streets, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

GLASSHOUSE SEASON 2019

Sydney Symphony Orchestra comes to Port Macquarie with internationally renowned guitarist and four-times ARIA winning artist Slava Grigoryan. Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez is the perfect vehicle for Grigoryan: colourful, elegant and virtuosic. Bizet’s Suite from Carmen will provide the ideal combination of French elegance and Spanish colour. The evening will culminate with Beethoven’s Third Symphony - one of Beethoven’s greatest compositions. Program BIZET Carmen: Suite No.1 RODRIGO Concierto de Aranjuez BEETHOVEN Symphony No.3 Eroica FOR BOOKINGS: 02 6581 8888 or glasshouse.org.au Cnr Clarence & Hay Streets, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

SENIORS \\APRIL, 2019

NEWS

Gallery tours extended

Accessible Art Tours bring beauty of art to wide audience

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Tania Phillips THE Glasshouse Regional Gallery is set to become even more accessible thanks to a new program launched this year. The Accessible Art Tours are conducted on the last Friday of every month for people and their carers. The next is due on May 31, with similar tours organised for June 28 and July 26 – right through to November. Gallery curator Bridget Purtill said the program carried on from a similar event launched last year for people with Alzheimer’s and their carers. While last year was successful, she wanted to widen the scope of the tours, extending to include other people in nursing homes or those who could not access the gallery, and not just people with Alzheimer’s, Bridget said the Accessible Art Tours were

the program carries on from a similar event launched last year for people with Alzheimer’s open to individuals and groups and their carers and provided a welcoming relaxed environment which helped enhance the connection to the exhibitions on display while encouraging self-expression. The tours are offered on the final Friday of the month over three time slots: 9.45am, 10.45am and 12.30pm. Bookings are essential as there is a maximum of 10 people per tour. The Glasshouse

OPEN HOUSE: The Glasshouse Regional Gallery – conducting Accessible Art Tours on the last Friday of each month. Regional Gallery will present 24 exhibitions this year featuring

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APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

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FUNDRAISERS: Royal Far West Children’s Health Scheme supporter Jill Gill and her grandson Rick.

A CHILDHOOD injury in the 1930s has led one Coffs Harbour family to a long career in volunteering and fundraising. Five generations of Jill Gill’s family has been involved in fundraising for the Royal Far West Children’s Health Scheme in Coffs Harbour. The people of Coffs have been involved in fundraising for the scheme for the past 70 years and there has been an op shop for the scheme in the town since the ’60s. Coffs’ involvement in fundraising for the Sydney-based operation is the subject of an exhibition at the city’s regional museum which will run through until May 11. Small in numbers, but large in heart: 70 years of Royal Far West in Coffs Harbour looks back at the work of the charity that provides country children with access to specialist medical and allied health services. It features stories of kids who were deemed

“untreatable” in less understanding times and faced lonely lives of exclusion from daily life, but who had those lives turned around with assistance from the Royal Far West. For Jill Gill, who was at the opening late month, the exhibition is a true walk down memory lane. “And it’s all because of an accident my mother had when she was young,” Jill said, explaining why the scheme was so important to her mother and grandmother and still important to her, her daughter and grandson. “She had an accident when she lived at Bendemeer near Tamworth in 1937 – her lower leg was crushed and the local doctor in Tamworth wanted to amputate. “However, there was a new young doctor just out of medical school who thought he could save the leg.” It was during her recovery that Jill’s mum Olive was sent down to the Royal Far West in Sydney to continue treatments and it was that

Hello from SCCA … Hello, and thank you to everyone for the warm welcome given to me since my arrival. The recent anniversary celebrations of 25 years for Marian Grove, and 20 Years for Mater Christi, powerfully demonstrate the love and dedication that have been built into the foundations and fabric of this community. This month sees Sawtell Catholic Care considering the strategic needs of our residents into the foreseeable future. These needs have caused us to expand, with 51 new luxurious over 55’s units currently under construction for Marian Grove. The Link Project is also moving forward, with plans afoot to commence work on the site very soon. Mater Christi also has plans, for the growth and improvement of services to provide better support for people living with dementia, especially in the area of lifestyle and amenities. Amidst this wonderful lifestyle upgrade work we are also undertaking a rigorous review of our quality standards, in keeping with the current Aged Care Royal Commission and their efforts to help lift the aged care sector up to higher levels of quality, accountability and transparency.

Michael Darragh CEO Sawtell Catholic Care

Got a hankering for a new hobby? Discover everything you desire with Seniors online. There’s exclusive travel offers, the stories that matter to you, big win competitions, plus every exciting event happening near you! Seniors – redefining an exciting retirement!

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Join us at seniorsnews.com.au

From the big picture to the smallest details,“we care”

www.scca.net.au Ph: 02 6653 1241 Ph: 02 6658 6133

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I look forward to keeping you informed on our community, as well as the wider issues which affect us.

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SENIORS \\APRIL, 2019

NEWS

through the generations time and the help she received there that stuck with both Olive and her mother. “My grandmother started to donate craft that she made when mum was down there in the ’30s,” Jill said. And when her mother married a banana farmer and moved to Coffs Harbour, she continued on the tradition of making things and raising money for the place that had helped her. “My mum volunteered until she passed away, I’ve been a volunteer for 23 years and my daughter for the past 17 years and we’re still going,” she said. “We have an opportunity shop here in Moonee Street – the fundraising branch started in 1949 selling goods and then in 1964 a shop was opened. “There are 17 opportunity shops in the region now but we are the only one for a children’s charity.” Coffs Royal Far West Children’s Op Shop is one of just three dedicated to the organisation in the entire state, with another

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Local residents formed a branch of the charity on March 24, 1949...

LIVING HISTORY: Coffs museum is currently running an exhibition to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Royal Far West Health scheme in Coffs Harbour. down the road at Port Macquarie and the third out at Forbes. The story of Jill’s mum is just one of those featured in the museum exhibition. “Many of the families

assisted by Royal Far West became committed volunteers and their stories feature prominently in the exhibition, including a family with five generations of

involvement,” museum curator Jo Besley said. Local residents formed a branch of the charity on March 24, 1949 and it has had a regular presence in Coffs Harbour ever since.

Last chance to secure your slice of paradise!

“For seven decades, the Coffs Harbour branch has raised funds and worked with local health practitioners to provide free health services to thousands of local children and their

families,” Ms Besley said. “We’re very excited to be welcoming many of the former Far West members and volunteers to the exhibition opening where several local branch members will receive formal acknowledgement of their lifetime contribution.” Small in numbers, but large in heart: 70 years of Royal Far West in Coffs Harbour will run until May 11 and is a partnership between the museum and Royal Far West. Jill said the branch and op shop were looking for new volunteers, who should head to the Moonee Street shop for more information.

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Community notes

Community group guide WE welcome your community notes and if you would like to submit a photo ensure it is at least 180dpi or 500kb to 1mb in size and of faces, in a nice bright setting. Email editor@seniors newspaper.com.au. TOP TEAM: Coffs City Probus club members from the elected committee for 2019/2020 (from left): Keith Williams (Membership), Jan Williams (Archives), Brian Burns (Publicity), Dorothy Burns (Activities), Sue Fernandes (Secretary), Pat Nally (Treasurer), Winston Fernandes (President), Ken Capps (Immediate Past President) and David Becker (Membership). evidence of consultation and a clear rationale will be considered by an assessment panel comprising of community and arts representatives. This is a great opportunity to ignite that creative idea and make it a reality. Information including the online application form is available on council’s website, go to coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au. Applications close on May 31, 2019.

FREE SESSIONS AT COFFS HARBOUR LIBRARIES

iPads & biscuits – Social

Media April 30, 10am-noon at Harry Bailey Memorial Library. Come along to one or all of our series of free group learning sessions, iPads and biscuits. Join up with other iPad users to discover how to use popular social media platforms like Facebook. Use an existing account to post a status, share photos and videos, like pages and follow others. Learn about account privacy on social media. Bring along your own device or borrow one of ours and we will work through all things iPad

social media apps. Get to know an iPads – Workshop for beginners May 7, 14 and 21, 10am-noon at Harry Bailey Memorial Library. Are you a little hesitant about using an iPad? Book a spot and come to the three workshops especially designed to help you get confident with iPads. If you have your own iPad and want to start at the beginning bring it along. If you don’t, borrow one of ours for free to get a taste and learn some skills that will open up a whole new world of

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information and entertainment. For both programs bookings are essential. Book online or phone 6648 4900 for additional information or email coffs.library@chcc.nsw. gov.au or visit the library website to see the list of upcoming programs. Both programs will also be held at Toormina library in June. For a full list of programs, go eventbrite.com/d/ australia--coffsharbour/ipad.

PROBUS CLUBS

Coffs City OUR next meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 24 at the Cavanbah Centre, Harbour Dr, Coffs Harbour at 9.45am for 10am. The guest speaker will be Hans Katala who will talk about Vietnam – Then and Now. Morning tea will follow the guest speaker. Probus clubs have expanded to encompass retired and semi-retired people from different walks of life. This a friendly mixed gender club and visitors and new members are welcome. For information, phone Brian on (02) 5619 2484.

Win a double pass to see André Rieu’s 2019 Maastricht Concert – ‘Shall We Dance?’ at Event Cinemas. André Rieu’s annual hometown Maastricht concerts attract fans from all corners of the globe. The medieval town square is transformed into a spectacular backdrop for unforgettable concerts filled with humour, fun and emotions for all ages. This year’s theme is a dedication to the waltz. Screening on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th of July

at BCC and Event Cinemas, tickets are on sale now at eventcinemas.com.au or at the box office. Thanks to Event Cinemas, we have 10 double passes to giveaway to this exciting screening. To be in the draw, just fill in our form online at seniorsnews.com.au/ competitions

^Visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitionterms for full competition terms and conditions. Promoter is ARM Specialist Media Pty Ltd of 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore Qld 4558. Promotional period 22/04/19-2/06/19. Competition drawn 2pm 3/06/19 at Cnr Mayne Rd and Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006.Winners announced in Seniors August Edition 2019.Total prize value $840.00 (including GST). Entry is open to all permanent residents of Queensland, residing in the Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast and Toowoomba Seniors distribution areas and NSW in the Northern NSW, Central Coast and Coffs & Clarence Seniors distribution areas. NSW Permit Number LTPM/18/03133 ***Double passes are for traditional orVmax sessions, not valid for Gold Class. Passes must be redeemed at the box office and cannot be booked online. Seating is subject to availability.

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DO YOU have a great idea for an arts and cultural project? Coffs Harbour City Council is inviting applications for the 2019-20 Arts and Cultural Development Grants program. The grants program encourages the development of projects by artists (including visual, music, performing, literary and film based), arts organisations and community based organisations that enrich the arts and cultural life of the community. Funding assistance of between $2000 and $5000 is available for events and projects that

support new and exciting arts and cultural projects and initiatives in our communities. The grants program supports projects that share one or more of the five priority areas outlined in the Creative Coffs Strategic Plan 2017-2022: Engage our community and visitors in the cultural life of the area; Create and maintain vibrant cultural and public spaces; Understand and celebrate our Aboriginal and diverse cultural heritage; Value and support our creative industries and Encourage connections, collaboration and partnerships. Applications that are well planned, show

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SENIORS \\APRIL, 2019

COLUMNS

Be aware not alarmed and keep an eye out for your mate’s health “A quiet word’ with Henri Rennie THE numbers around Parkinson’s Disease are alarming. There are around 110,000 people in Australia who live with Parkinson’s. That’s around one in every three hundred, and about 38 more are diagnosed every day. But what’s worse is that the numbers are probably really much higher than that. In most cases, it’s only when the symptoms have become too severe to ignore that people realise, or admit, that they might have Parkinson’s. There might easily be three times the number of ‘recognised’ Parkinson’s patients in Australia. Some known risk factors for Parkinson’s are family history, head trauma, exposure to toxic chemicals and long-term gastric trouble. None of them make the disease inevitable, but any could sway the odds. And having none of them doesn’t make you immune, either. There are some warning

signs to look out for. A small tremor in your hands or feet when lounging in your chair at the end of a long day. When you get up out of your chair, does it take a few moments before your legs will do what you want them to? Shuffling when you walk - perhaps the soles of your shoes wear out quicker. Often Parkinson’s affects the jaw and tongue – do people say you’re mumbling more than you used to? Again, none of these symptoms guarantee that you have Parkinson’s Disease. Lots of things may be causing them, many quite harmless. But they are all worth telling your doctor about during your annual check-up. Then every year the two of you can review whether those symptoms are better, the same, or worse. The earlier that you can recognise deterioration, the sooner you can start taking action to slow the decline. The best is simply to move as much as you can.

It’s bit of a stretch Graeme Wilson GeeDubWords MY hamstring was burning, my breathing was laboured and I was fighting a desperate desire to expel wind. My belated introduction to yoga was definitely not proving the relaxing experience I’d been promised. To make it worse, I was surrounded by universally lithe yogis (definitely all smarter than this average bear!) effortlessly contorting their bodies as I simultaneously suffered in a world of pain. As I grappled with the challenge of sending my legs in opposite directions, the irritatingly calming voice of the instructor urged us all to breathe deeply through each stretch. While those around me comfortably inhaled and exhaled with long and soothing breaths, I was huffing and puffing like a steam train negotiating a

POISED: To push your boundaries. mountainous pass. And who knew such strength was required to survive a yoga class unscathed? Certainly not me. My quivering quads silently screamed a united protest each time I attempted an extended squat, and it became increasingly difficult to resist the urge to just stay prone on my mat until the session came to a merciful end. I know it’s not supposed to be about comparing yourself to others, but a furtive glance around me confirmed that this newbie had a long way to

Photo: Gail Forrer

go. My more experienced classmates were all moving seamlessly through imitations of cows, cobras, cats and any number of other animals, while each pose I attempted more closely resembled a clumsy baby elephant. I thought I’d made a breakthrough when the instructor requested we all take up the "Child’s Pose", but apparently sitting with arms crossed, scowling, with your bottom lip drooped was not what was required. This yoga baptism of fire could have left me literally bent and broken,

but I’m proud to report that practice does makes perfect (well, not perfect but at least better). I now know the difference between a Downward Dog and a Dagwood Dog (although in honesty still derive more pleasure from the battered/sauce-drenched one), and have mastered many of the basic poses. I’ve even done some research and have added my own personal touch to classes with the introduction of an occasional sneaky Wind Relieving Pose (seriously, it’s a thing…Google it!). But let’s keep that our little secret. Namaste!

How to be happy in your third age Forster – Coffs Harbour Monday and Friday Forster Darawank Taree Cundletown Coopernook Kew Wauchope Station Port Macquarie Base Hospital Port Macquarie Kempsey Station Frederickton Macksville Nambucca Heads Plaza Nambucca Heads Urunga Station Coffs Harbour Health Campus Coffs Harbour Park Beach Plaza Coffs Harbour Station

6:00 a 6:13 6:32 a 6:40 a 6:53 a 7:23 7:48 a 8:04 8:13 a 8:58 a 9:05 9:38 a 9:47 a 9:51 a 10:11 a 10:35 a 10:49 10:55

Coffs Harbour – Forster Monday and Friday Coffs Harbour Station Coffs Harbour Park Beach Plaza Coffs Harbour Health Campus Urunga Station Nambucca Heads Nambucca Heads Plaza Macksville Frederickton Kempsey Station Port Macquarie Port Macquarie Base Hospital Wauchope Station Kew Coopernook Cundletown Taree Darawank Forster

15:30 a 15:39 a 15:55 a 16:16 16:37 a 16:40 16:55 a 17:27 a 17:40 18:23 a 18:36 18:53 a 19:18 a 19:38 a 19:51 19:59 a 20:20 20:33

RETIREMENT is often called the “third age”. It’s supposed to be a time where fewer obligations give you time to enjoy the things you love, such as travel, hobbies or further education. This is not everyone’s experience. While some can embrace the opportunities, others struggle to find meaning in their day, suffer loneliness from lack of social interaction, or look after family who are young, ill or have disabilities. In this column we’ll explore how, through scientifically-proven activities, you can elevate your daily levels of happiness and contentment, regardless of your circumstances. The first activity is Random Acts of Kindness (RAOK). There are always people in your communities who need a hand, even though sometimes it’s hard to see past the challenges of your own life which can cloud thinking and the way

Meredith Yardley is a happiness specialist, an author, an award-winning speaker and is on a quest to help people live happier, more fulfilled lives, regardless of their circumstances. Photo: katenutt.com

you see the world. RAOK is not necessarily about making a long term commitment to one activity, but seeing a need and stepping in. The steps are simple. Do five things for others – friends or strangers – one day a week. These can be simple things: treat someone a coffee, give blood, say a kind word to a parent whose child is having a

tantrum, prepare a meal for someone, bring in a neighbour’s garbage bin. These actions may seem small, but you would be surprised how meaningful they are to those who receive them. And the more you do, the more opportunities you’ll see. Studies show that people who do RAOK once a week for six weeks (doing them all on one day has more impact than spreading them over time) have elevated feelings of happiness that last for up to three months. Imagine how good you would feel if you made this difference regularly! Meredith Yardley is a happiness specialist. She has a MA in Communication, Certificates in The Science of Happiness and Hypnotherapy and a GradDip in Social Ecology. She is an author, an award-winning speaker and is on a quest to help people live happier, more fulfilled lives, regardless of their circumstances.

APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

What's on

Tania Phillips

TIME TO SHINE

SHINE is a festival held from April 22-29 where dozens of museums will open their doors in the evening and showcase their stories and collections. From ghost stories to light shows, parlour games and Victorian dinner settings new audiences will gain a new insight into the cultural heritage of the Mid North Coast. For more information go to artsmidnorthcoast.com.

FAR WEST EXHIBITION

MARCH 24 marked the 70th anniversary of the Royal Far West Children’s Health Scheme in Coffs Harbour. Over the years, the members of the Coffs Harbour branch have raised funds and worked with health practitioners to benefit thousands of local children, as well as contributing to the charitable works of the organisation across New South Wales. To honour that anniversary the Coffs Harbour Regional Museum has an exhibition on show until May 11.

TASMA THEATRE: COFFS HARBOUR’S JEWEL CINEMA has played an important role in the cultural life of Coffs

RED HOT: Country music star Lee Kernaghan is on his way to the Mid North Coast – time to get your tickets. Harbour, from the travelling shows played in the School of Arts and open air screenings at Fitzroy Stadium, to the saving of Sawtell Cinema and the Screenwave International Film Festival. In the museum’s latest exhibition, The Tasma Theatre – Coffs Harbour’s Jewel, the museum takes a look at the history of the Tasma Theatre, the dream of two of the most colourful figures in the story of cinema in Australia. The Tasma Cinema opened in March 1937 on the corner of Castle Street and High Street, as Harbour Drive was then known. With an imposing art deco facade, it was the grandest building in “Top Town” and became known as the “theatre beautiful” and was inspiration for the movie The Picture Show Man. The exhibition will continue through until May

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BELLINGEN SHOW

IT’S on from May 25-26. A fun informative celebration of local agriculture and people the Belligen Show will be held from May 25-26. For more, phone 0498 483 915.

MOTHER’S DAY

CELEBRATE Mother’s Day at Urunga on May 12 with live music, great coffee and food and kids activities. Bring a rug, a bottle of wine, some cheese. For more details, phone Jo on 0401 516 779.

MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL

FOUR women at a lingerie sale have nothing in common but a black lace bra, memory loss, hot flushes, night sweats, not enough sex, too much sex and more. Inspired by

a hot flush and a bottle of wine, Menopause The Musical is a celebration for women who are on the brink of, in the middle of, or have survived The Change. This side-splitting musical parody set to classic tunes from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles! See what 11+ million women (and brave men) have been laughing about for 17 years. Come see it at the Saraton Theatre, Grafton, April 26 from 7.30pm. For more, go to saraton.com.

participants learn a wide variety of circus skills. At the end of the day, they perform alongside a professional performer for family and friends. Spinning plates, hula hoop, balances, tumbling, devil sticks, magic and more. This workshop is suitable for participants aged six and above. April 28, 9am-5pm. Performance at 4.30pm. For more, go to circusin education.com.au.

JOIN THE CIRCUS FOR A DAY

A SPECIAL Mother’s Day Morning Tea event is being held at the Maclean Lower Clarence Services Club from 10am. All proceeds will go towards the purchase of a new Ultrasound for Maclean Hospital. For more information, phone (02) 6646 1564.

ROLL up, roll up to Yamba for Circus Day. Join Ringmaster Rosie as she presents the most incredible circus in the world. You and the grandkis are the stars. In this combined workshop and performance,

UNITED HOSPITAL AUXILIARY MOTHER’S DAY MORNING TEA

LEE KERNAGHAN TOURS

LEE Kernaghan is set to hit the road again in May/June playing Grafton (Saraton Theatre, May 30), Coffs (Ex-Services, May 31) and Port (The Glasshouse, June 2). Following his sold out 25th Anniversary Tour Lee began turning his experiences out on the road into songs and a brand new album Backroad Nation. “Backroad Nation is a celebration of us, our way of life and the people who make our country great,” Kernaghan said. “Much of the inspiration for the songs has come from the people I’ve met and the places I’ve travelled to from Alice Springs to the Deni Ute Muster, from the mighty Pilbara region in WA to back-roads Queensland and everywhere in between.”

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vIETNAM & CAMbODIA ADvENTURE TOUR $4,825 24 Day Tour Dep. Sept 4 Flying Singapore Airlines into Hanoi & out of Siem Reap. 19 day tour of Vietnam off the beaten track. 4 day tour of Cambodia including Angkor Wat. The prices listed mainly include return air fares from Sydney, Melbourne & Brisbane, airport taxes & fuel levies, tipping, good twin share accom., many meals, all transfers, Australian tour leader & local tour guides. 6974779aa

Flying Singapore Airlines and Iceland Air, 9 day circle tour of Iceland, stopovers in London, Paris & Singapore. Numbers limited to approx 25 passengers.

Flying Qantas and American Airlines into Costa Rica and out of Guatemala, 20 days in Central America including a partial transit of the Panama Canal, stopover in Dallas Texas in both directions. Numbers limited to 22 passengers.

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Flying Singapore Airlines into Delhi and out of Mumbai, 16 days touring India by coach, air and boat including Taj Mahal, Varanasi and Rajasthan, 2 day Singapore stopover.

Flying Thai International to London, 2 weeks touring England, Scotland & Wales with Windsor Castle and the Royal Yacht Britannia, stopovers in Thailand in both directions.

NORTH KOREA $5,275 2 Week Tour Dep. Sep 18. Flying Qantas to Beijing, one week in North Korea with five nights in the Pyongyang and one night in Nampo City, five days touring North East China. North Korea visa included. Numbers limited to 24 passengers.

$5,485 19 Day Tour Dep. Nov 14

INSIDE vIETNAM $3,985 20 Day Tour Dep. Nov 14 2019 & feb 13 2020

Flying Singapore Airlines into Saigon & out of Hanoi plus a flight within Vietnam. 18 day coach & air tour of Vietnam. No extra charge for having a single room.

WEST CANADA TOUR WITH ALASKAN CRUISE. $6,975 22 Day Tour Dep. Sep 2

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Flying Qantas into Auckland and out of Christchurch, 14 days touring both island of New Zealand with included visits to some of their most notable gardens, and also two garden festivals. Small group tour with numbers limited to 22 passengers.

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Flying Emirates into Athens. 12 day tour of Greece & the Greek Islands including a cruise to Mykonos, Patmos, Crete, Santorini & Ephesus. 3 nights Dubai. 4 star accommodation. Australian Federation of Travel Agents Travel Accreditation Number: A1038

SENIORS \\APRIL, 2019

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with strengthening TRX training. For the perfect recovery, soothe your muscles and release tensions with therapeutic treatments adjacent to fragrant gardens. ❚ Portugal: Fusion Fitness at Monchique Resort and Spa Choose from a range of personalised activities, from boot camp training, yoga, Pilates and walking tours. Enhance your physical endurance and reach a new level of consciousness for a truly bespoke wellness experience as you get close to nature. ❚ Thailand: Fusion Fitness Thanyapura Health and Sports Resort Create your own fitness program in the state-of-the-art fitness centre alongside nutritional advice and physiotherapy. Fusion Fitness at Forte Village Stay in shape and try a new sports discipline in sunny Sardinia, including boxing, fencing, triathlon courses or wreck diving. There’s a choice of al fresco training throughout the 19ha of natural surroundings, a multi-faceted gym, yoga, tennis and cycling. Make like the Romans and melt away woes in the revolutionary world of thalassotherapy.

ESCAPE: Glamping on WA’s beautiful Rottnest Island.

Photo: Contributed

WITH the redevelopment complete, Queensland’s Daydream Island is ready to welcome guests to its 277 rooms and suites. The food and beverage offerings have been expanded, with three restaurants and three bars, including an exciting new Asian fusion restaurant that joins the buffet and modern Australian restaurants. The revitalised pool landscape, with its poolside bar, allows you to enjoy the stunning views across the Whitsundays. Info: www.daydream island.com.

FULL-FLAVOURED FESTIVAL

VICTORIA’S high country producers are dressing their dining tables in readiness for the annual Feast High Country Festival from May 3–19. The best of the high country’s food and drink will be showcased in a program that celebrates the natural beauty of the mountains, valleys, vineyards and villages of the region and the talented folk who bring the fine fare right to your table. Feast High Country Festival offers a perfect excuse for a road trip. Highlights of this year’s festival program include: ❚ Patrizia’s Harvest Forage with foodie royalty Patrizia Simone – forage for ingredients for your lunch then get the low-down from this celebrated chef on how to turn your found produce into a five-course Italian feast. ❚ Fermentation Degustation – Bridge Road Brewers Beechworth founders Ben and Maria Kraus host a four-course matched dinner with a difference, where

HIGH COUNTRY FOOD: Join our table at this year's Feast High Country Festival. fermentation is the hero of the night. ❚ In Merrijig, join winemaker David Ritchie in a toast to the 50th anniversary of Delatite Wines, including a five-course degustation dinner paired with some very special wines. ❚ Lunch with Three Italians at Pizzini Wines in the King Valley – Italian food, wine and opera are on the menu, with food by Adam Pizzini of Rinaldo’s Casa Cucina, Pizzini’s own Italian varietal wines and opera courtesy of the amazing Catherine Pendelich and Ced Le Medelo. ❚ The Tweed Ride in Rutherglen, where the theme is vintage – clothes, bicycles and wines – and the easy pedal includes outstanding food and wine experiences along the way, including lunch at Stanton and Killeen. Info: www.feasthigh country.com.au.

GLAMPING LAUNCHES ON WA’S ROTTNEST ISLAND

DISCOVERY – Rottnest Island is the first new accommodation on Rottnest Island in more than 30 years. The 2.8ha property is nestled behind the dunes of famous Pinky Beach, with 83 fully furnished eco-tents that come in four service levels, with each tent featuring an ensuite bathroom, pillow-topped bed and furnished private decks. Many tents also include kitchenettes, with the deluxe tents boasting opulent beach-front views and walk-in wardrobes. Info: www.discovery holidayparks.com.au/ discovery-rottnest-island.

Health and Fitness Travel. ❚ Portugal: Fusion Fitness at Palacio Estoril Golf Resort and Spa With a warm, dry climate, scenic views and a team of specialist trainers and therapists, finding motivation to restore your health is only a hop, skip and jump away. Recover in the Asian-inspired spa. ❚ Turkey: Fusion Fitness at Six Senses Kaplankaya

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APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

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It’s here the Anzac Day dawn service originated

SOLEMN BEGINNINGS: King George Sound at Albany, where the Anzac troop ships left from on the way to Gallipoli in World War I.

Photos: Erle Levey

Albany honours the In honour of Anzac Day, we publish Erle Levey’s account of his visit to Albany, believed to be the place of the first Anzac dawn ceremony

YOU CAN STILL HEAR THE SOUND OF SOLDIERS MARCHING THE small West Australian coastal town of Albany has a big Anzac history – it’s here the Anzac Day dawn service originated. Atop of the town’s Padre White Lookout is the perfect place to stand at dawn or as the sun sets and reflect on those who have gone before. In the spring of 1914, thousands of men and hundreds of horses gathered at the town’s railway station, coming there from all points of the country. They marched down to the jetty to join those on the ships already anchored in the harbour, ready for their grand adventure, their journey across the seas to fight for king and country against the oppressor. These were young, free-spirited men from a sparse continent on the other side of the world. The Australians and New Zealanders responded to the clarion call of the British Empire. It was Europe’s war but

these young men and a handful of women serving as nurses of this newly formed federation of states answered the call with “Australia will be there”. The first and second convoys carried the Australian Imperial Force and the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. Twenty-six Australian and 10 New Zealand transport ships assembled in King George Sound and departed on November 1, 1914, escorted by three warships. The second convoy of 15 Australian and three New Zealand ships departed unescorted on December 31, 1914. Today you can stand on the headlands of Albany and look across the waters of King George Sound, the site where 30,000 Anzac soldiers and horses were gathered aboard a fleet of 40 ships before setting sail for Gallipoli in World War I – just as they had gathered at this magnificent harbour before heading off to the Boer War in 1899. Just as they would

The grounds of the National Anzac Centre on Mt Clarence at Albany, WA. again for World War II. If someone said spend a day at the Anzac Centre, you would wonder why you would spend a day at a war memorial and museum. But you can. It’s like a walk through time and history. Everywhere you look it’s a reference to someone’s life. Stand up there on the top of the hill and virtually picture the scene – the departing ships. You can do that at sea level as well, at the replica jetty on the edge of

Princess Royal Harbour, next to Anzac Peace Park. Among the men and women who gathered in Albany before departing to serve in World War I were the troops who landed at Gallipoli, including the Light Horsemen, who fought on the battlefields of the Middle East and who entered Jerusalem and captured Damascus. Soldiers also fought in France and Belgium as part of the eight-month campaign. Anzac Peace Park was

opened in 2010 and pays tribute to the Australians who served in World War I and all those who have served the nation in conflicts and peacekeeping missions since. As well as the Pier of Remembrance, the park features an Interpretive Walk and the Lone Pine Grove. Each departing ship is represented by an engraved panel on the Pier of Remembrance as well as the HMAS AE2 submarine plaque that sits at the end of the pier. The AE2 was one of two submarines commissioned for the fledgling navy and she joined the second convoy of AIF troops in King George Sound at Albany on December 31, 1914, going on to serve in the Dardanelles. The Lone Pine Grove provides a major focus for the theme of peace within the park. The memorial was planted in 1974 to commemorate the departure of the first contingent of troops 60 years earlier.

SENIORS \\APRIL, 2019

The grounds of the National Anzac Centre on Mt Clarence.

The monument to the Desert Mounted Corps at Mt Clarence, Albany.

The old railway station at Albany, WA.

The grounds of the National Anzac Centre on Mount Clarence at Albany, WA.

The monument to the Desert Mounted Corps at Mt Clarence, Albany.

history of the Anzacs

It expresses a direct and living connection between Gallipoli and Albany. The Battle of Lone Pine was between Australian and Turkish forces on the Gallipoli Peninsula and the ridge provided a vital position. When Australian troops landed at Gallipoli on April 25, 1915, they saw a stunted pine grove growing on the commanding position of 400 Plateau. It was held by the Australians until December 1915 when Allied troops were evacuated from the peninsula. Two Australian soldiers collected pine cones from the Lone Pine Ridge in 1915 and from them seedlings were propagated. The pier is a stretch of boardwalk, which curves into Princess Royal Harbour. It provides a site for respite and reflection of those lost in the war. The National Anzac Centre on Mount Clarence takes two to three hours to go through.

You can explore the outside, including great views of the ocean where the troops left Australia for the last time. The old gun emplacements and ammunition storage areas are dug into the hill. Walking tracks lead up to the peak and from here you can look over the whole city, including Anzac Peace Park. The Garrison bar restaurant beside the Anzac Centre also gives a great vantage point of King George Sound in comfortable surrounds. Perhaps the most touching monument is that to the Desert Mounted Corps – so gallant in the Middle East. That and the Padre White Lookout, a memorial to the man regarded as the instigator of the Anzac Day service. The 10th Light Horse Regiment was the only regiment of mounted infantry recruited in Western Australia during World War I. It formed part of the 3rd Light Horse Brigade and served at Gallipoli as infantry in the Australian

St John’s Church, Albany. and New Zealand Army Corps. The regiment participated in the disastrous charge at the Nek on August 7, 1915, and their courageous actions were immortalised in the Peter Weir movie Gallipoli. After Gallipoli, the regiment served in the Middle East as part of the Anzac Mounted Division and later the Australian Mounted Division. The 10th Light Horse Regiment was largely supplied by the waler

breed of horse that originated in NSW, hence the name. The horses possessed amazing courage and endurance in harsh desert conditions, remaining alert and dependable even when short on rations. The Light Horse combined the mobility of cavalry with the fighting skills of infantry. They fought dismounted, with rifles and bayonets. However sometimes they charged on horseback, notably at Magdhaba and

Beersheba. On October 31, 1917, the Australian Light Horse bravely charged head-on into the machine guns to take Beersheba. Never would history see such a full-scale charge again. Horses usually need to drink about 30 litres of water a day. However during the campaign they often went for up to 60 hours without water while carrying a load of almost 130kg comprising rider, saddle, equipment, food and water. At the end of the World War I, Australians had 13,000 surplus horses that could not be returned home for quarantine reasons. Of these, 11,000 were sold, the majority as remounts for the British Army in India. Of all the walers that served in World War I, only one made it back. Sandy was one of Major General Sir William Throsby Bridges’ mounts. The gelding accompanied Bridges to Gallipoli but was not landed. After Bridges was killed

by a sniper, Sandy remained in Egypt until transferred to France in 1916. At the request of the Australian Government, Sandy returned to Melbourne in 1918 and was turned out to graze. Similarly, only one New Zealand horse that had served in the Middle East returned home. That was a mare named Bess. From 1916–18 Padre White served as an army chaplain with the 44th Battalion and, upon his return to Australia, delivered sermons in remembrance of locals who died in World War I. He led parishioners from St John’s Church to the summit of Mt Clarence at dawn on April 25, 1932 – the site where he, along with so many others, gathered to watch the convoys depart in 1914. Today the Padre White Lookout is the region’s most visited lookout and serves as an enduring place of reflection: a lasting monument to Ernest White and Australia’s first dawn service.

APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

The veteran adventurers

Photo: Ray Mustey

Practice walks up Mt Coot-tha whip Brian Eales into shape for a Himalayan adventure

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INTREPID: Dennis Frost, with Mt Warning in the background, during a training walk.

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trek by regularly walking Kerry Heaney different routes up Mt Coot-tha, down the other TWO senior trekkers have side, up again and back set off on a five-month as his morning exercise. journey along the world’s He followed that with a highest and longest alpine 50-minute walk to his walking route, the local shopping centre for 1700km Great Himalaya lunch. Trail. His anticipated tour Brisbane local Brian highlights include Eales, who will celebrate abseiling off the West Col his 71st birthday on the and traversing the high SEniorS diScount availablE trail, and Dennisfor Frost, passes in Dolpo. mid WEEk StayS 65, from the Sunshine Dennis loves the Luxury B&B 0n 10 parkland acres close to pristine beaches and Coast, were unknown to contrast between the spectacular rain forests. Large rooms with en-suites, Formal each other Lounges, before they excitement and vibrancy & Casual Indoor & Outdoor Dining, BBQ available. Sumptuous menu. Easyof access from Pacific embarked onbreakfast this ultimate Kathmandu and the Motorway midway between Coffsserenity Harbour &and Port natural Macquarie. trekking experience. Brian, who has travelled beauty of the mountains 340 Stuarts Point Rd Yarrahapinni NSW 2441 • Phone: 0418225810 to the Himalayas 15 and their people. Email: yarrahome@bigpond.com • Website: www.yarrahome.com.au times, prepared for the He previously

The trail itself triggers inspiring stories

completed the Snowman Trek, crossing 11 high passes on the mountainous borders that define Bhutan and Tibet. Organised by adventure travel specialist World Expeditions, the Great Himalaya Trail carves a path of more than 4500km through the

Himalayas from Bhutan to Pakistan. “As well as being an incredible adventure, the trail itself triggers the most inspiring stories of determination, achievement and personal growth,” World Expeditions chief executive Sue Badyari

said. The Nepal section begins in the country’s far east. It crosses to the high plateaus on the Tibetan borderlands in the far west, along the way encountering some of the wildest and most remote mountain environments on the planet.

Trekkers can see all eight of Nepal’s 8000m peaks and visit villages where traditional culture has remained intact for centuries. “A thousand words cannot describe how absolutely amazing the Great Himalaya Trail was and always will be,” Ray Mustey, also of Brisbane, who trekked the full traverse in 2014, said. “I am often asked if I would do it again. The answer is always yes.” Brian and Dennis will join a select list of just 21 people who have completed this trek. World Expeditions has divided the Great Himalaya Trail into seven treks that can be completed individually or together. Find out more at worldexpeditions.com.

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^Visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitionterms for full competition terms and conditions. Promoter is ARM Specialist Media Pty Ltd of 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore Qld 4558. Promotional period 15/04/19 - 17/05/19. Competition drawn 2pm 20/05/19 at Cnr Mayne Rd and Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006. Winners announced in Seniors August 2019. Total prize value $200 (including GST). Entry is open to all permanent residents of Queensland living in the regions of Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Wide Bay and Toowoomba and New South Wales living in the regions of Northern NSW, Central Coast and Coffs and Clarence. Authorised under Permit NSW/LTPM/18/03133

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Gokyo Lake, Himalayas, Nepal.

SENIORS \\APRIL, 2019

The Villas in a park-like setting.

‘‘

Tangalooma Island is the world’s third-largest sand island

NATURAL BEAUTY: Wild dolphin feeding off Tangalooma Island Resort on Moreton Island.

Photo: Contributed

Birdlife abounds Tangalooma.

A dive into Tangalooma Shirley Sinclair

shirley.sinclair@scnews.com.au

IT STARTS the moment you step off the ferry, stand on the jetty and take in that view. Your gaze immediately falls on the golden sands stretching from the resort in front of you to the snorkelling haven known as “The Wrecks” at the extreme far left. You’ve taken the scenic route and arrived at this island haven. You’d swear you’ve been teleported to the Whitsundays or North Queensland. Then your eyes turn back to the calm, jewelled waters that graduate in

colour – deepening from aquamarine to sapphire. Time-poor but fun-loving over-50s can discover a tropical getaway virtually on their doorstep and feel like they’ve had an exotic holiday in just one or two days. Tangalooma Island Resort on Moreton Island – the world’s third-largest sand island after Fraser and North Stradbroke islands – is only a 75-minute ferry ride from Pinkenba in Brisbane’s north. It’s so close, yet a world away from the everyday. While we’d visited Tangalooma before, it had been in the colder months for some winter sun – a time of year when having a

scenic water view is enough. Today, it’s all about frolicking in the 23C water on a 26-degree day under cornflour-blue skies. And we’re not going to waste this opportunity, having taken the first ferry at 7am and cramming as much island time into our overnight itinerary as possible. For our 10am booking with Tangatours on the Wrecks Snorkel Tour, we mosey up the garden path where palm fronds and pandanus leaves cast shadows on to bottle-green lawns, to be suited up in wetsuits and decked out with snorkel and fins. Before the mandatory

safety briefing, we strike up a conversation with two Swiss travellers who couldn’t pass up the one chance they had to swim around 150 types of coral and 100 species of colourful tropical fish, as well as the possibility of sighting bottlenose dolphins, green sea turtles, wobbegongs and dugongs. Our instructor, the aptly named Sandy, expertly guides us on a tour beside, around and through the 15 wrecks. Over the next 75 minutes, we are mesmerised by nature. While I’ve snorkelled all over the world, this is my first wrecks dive and it’s a titanic experience.

Nothing can quite describe the feeling of following tiny colourful fish through the bones of a sunken hull of a ship, kicking past portholes and floating above decks. The tour snorkels with the current, the length of the shipwrecks from end to end. The snorkelling reminds me how the simple things in life are often the best. And with that in mind, we head off to enjoy a half-hour relaxation massage. The climax of our day on Moreton Island is its world-renowned wild dolphin feeding. Guests on selected accommodation and day cruise packages can feed

dolphins once per person per stay. But anyone can sit in the stands and observe this nightly heartwarming human/dolphin encounter. The grateful recipient of our tasty herrings is pregnant 14-year-old Silhouette. Her calf now named Comet made its first appearance on January 13 – the fourth generation of the same family to turn up at Tangalooma and the 12th member of the Moreton pod to frequent the jetty. * The writer was a guest of Tangalooma Island Resort on Moreton Island: a 75-minute ferry ride from Pinkenba in Brisbane's north.

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APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

Fishing the crater lakes in the Victorian district Anglers travel here in winter and summer

IN THE last of my six-part fishing series, I want to introduce you to a truly unique part of Australia to visit and fish – the crater lakes district in Victoria. A short drive to the west of Melbourne will have you in the midst of an ancient landscape that was shaped by our last volcanic era. There are a few lakes in the area but the most notable are Purrumbete and Bullen Merri. These lakes are found in the area around Camperdown. These dams are circular and very deep, having been formed by violent volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. Today they are filled with cool waters and plenty of brown and rainbow trout, salmon and redfin perch.

Victoria’s Lake Bullen Merri.

The trout and salmon fishing is first class and many anglers travel here in winter and summer to sample the fishing. The pick of the fishing occurs in winter and the changeover seasons. Popular techniques include fly-fishing with bait fish profile flies around the weed edges of lakes, particularly in Purrumbete. Bait fishing with live baits under floats is popular in both Bullen Merri and Purrumbete. Many anglers opt to troll lures around these dams and fare well on some very big trout and salmon. Trolling lures behind attractors and down deep on downriggers is a popular pastime here. Standard trout lures such as bibbed hard-body minnows and winged options such as Tasmanian Devils are

worth packing. Standard trout spinning equipment will cover most options – 2–4kg weighted rods with 2500-sized thread line reels and 4–8lb braided or fluorocarbon lines. There are boat ramps on these dams and 4m-plus boats are perfect for navigating these waterways. There are plenty more locations that I could write of but I am afraid I have run out of space. My next big trip is planned to the beaches and rock headlands to the west of Port Lincoln towards Yalata, which is another remote fishery I have heard should be on the bucket list of anglers. Nige Webster works for AFN Fishing and Outdoors and presents and produces The Fishing Show on 7Mate. Search Facebook: “AFN The Fishing Show”.

Photo: Tourism Victoria

QUALITY AND QUANTITY: The trout fishing is first class.

Photo: seanfboggs

Congratulations to our Winners Congratulations to the winners of our King of Thieves Screening giveaway. Anne Freier Anthea Cornish John Morris

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Nige Webster

SENIORS \\APRIL, 2019

Wellbeing

UPDATE: Stay one step ahead with your health insurance knowledge.

Photo: Purestock

You are invited to get fit and healthy with us ‘‘

The added bonuses of these programs are social inclusion...

THERE is a range of health programs running on the Mid North Coast that encourage people 50 years and older to maintain a healthy weight, increase fitness and strength, improve self-esteem and mental health, reduce the risk of heart disease, reduce risk of falling and maintain independence. The added bonuses of these programs are social inclusion and having a

sense of belonging in your local community. Stepping On is a free seven-week program designed for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people aged 45 years and over and non-Aboriginal people aged 65 years and over who have fallen or are fearful of falling. Stepping on teaches practical exercises to improve strength and balance. Phone Health Promotion team on

6588 2750 or email mnclhd-HP@ncahs.health. nsw.gov.au. The Get Healthy Service is a free and confidential phone based service which can help individuals to make lifestyle changes around physical activity, healthy eating, alcohol reduction and maintaining a healthy weight. Phone 1300 806 258. Heart Foundation Walking groups are led by

volunteer walk organisers across the Mid North Coast. Joining a Heart Foundation Walking group in your local area can help you stay motivated to exercise regularly. For details about joining or starting a local walking group, visit walking. heartfoundation.org.au. Hydrotherapy is a series of gentle movements performed in a heated pool. It may be beneficial for people who

suffer from injuries or conditions affecting their muscle and bones. Some hospitals in the Mid North Coast offer hydrotherapy programs for little or no cost. For info on classes in your area, contact your local hospital. You can keep up to date with what’s happening in your local area or register your exercise program on the Active and Healthy website: activeandhealthy. nsw.gov.au.

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Stepping into a fitter way of life ‘‘ THE Ingenia Walkers is a walking group in Coffs Harbour that shows that walking is for everyone. The group was formed by the effervescent Ingenia Gardens Retirement Village manager Sandra Luke, with support from Mid North Coast Local Health District’s Health Promotion team. Ingenia Gardens is a retirement village for over 55s but the average age of the residents is between 70 and 80 years. According to Sandra, the group (which sits under the umbrella of the National Heart Foundation Walking Program) was formed to help the

Ingenia Walkers started as a small group of 12 but has reached 23.

residents get fitter and lose weight. "Some of the residents were telling me they wanted to lose weight," Sandra said. "For others, this walk is the only outing they ever get, especially those on walkers who tend to mostly sit in their rooms.

It is a social thing for all of them." Ingenia Walkers started as a small group of 12 residents but the number of walkers participating has now reached 23. The group walks on Tuesday each week. Ingenia Walkers is open to all village residents and anyone from the community can also join in. One of the village residents, Elizabeth Maguire, is also a trained Heart Foundation Walk Organiser. Walk Organisers are community volunteers who are trained by the National Heart Foundation to lead walking groups. She has always liked walking,

ACTIVE SUPPORT: Elizabeth Maguire and Sandra Luke. especially in her younger years. "It is a great way of keeping fit," Elizabeth said. Elizabeth has many happy stories from the walks. "Two of the walkers

have formed a romantic relationship, one gentleman is ecstatic at the distance he is able to walk outside the village using his wheelie walker, and the residents who tend to sit in the same chairs and places at meal

times are now mixing and talking with the others," Elizabeth said. For more information about Heart Foundation Walking, visit the website https://walking.heart foundation.org.au

Foods that fuel a healthier lifestyle ginger, spring onions and spices are fermented for a period of time. During this stage micro-organisms, such as bacteria, convert sugars into other compounds to produce energy. ■ Matcha It can take some time to produce matcha leaves suitable for drinking. The leaves are covered with shade cloths before harvesting to trigger better flavour and texture. The leaves are then hand-picked, steamed to prevent fermentation, then dried and aged in a cold room to deepen the flavour further. The result is a tea

packed full of health-giving properties, including antioxidants such as polyphenols, which have been linked to protecting the body against heart disease and cancer, regulating blood sugar and blood pressure and even anti-ageing. ■ Miso Miso isn’t just about soup. In its paste form it’s also ideal for salad dressings, sauces, marinades, and adding to chicken, fish or vegetable dishes. Made from fermented soybeans and grains, it contains millions of beneficial bacteria, which means that it releases

pro-biotics, great for balancing your gut’s health. ■ Wine Drinking wine has been given the seal of approval by researchers who say that the resveratrol present in grapes may help to lower cardiovascular risk and reduce some cancers. Wine is also loaded with a variety of other polyphenols which have broad and profound health effects. ■ Aged garlic A study published in Frontiers of Nutrition found that aged garlic extract has several health benefits, including reducing blood pressure

HEALTHY: Garlic extract benefits, includes reducing blood pressure in hypertensive patients. in hypertensive patients, improved the age of arterial stiffness by around five years, inflammation and gut health. The study found that patients who took two capsules a day of Kyolic Aged Garlic reported

fewer adverse side effects, and an increase in lactobacillus and clostridia, which are also known as the good bacteria in the gut. Good gut health has also been linked with improved cardiovascular health.

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CARDIOLOGIST Dr Ross Walker wants us to start adding these five foods to our diet as each has shown to increase in nutritional value as we age. ■ Kimchi Take better care of your gut by including fermented foods such as kimchi in your diet. It’s rich in vitamins A and C, which have gut-boosting lactobacilli bacteria, and antioxidant and immune-boosting abilities. It’s important to have a good dose of pre-biotics which feed high-quality nutrients to healthy gut bacteria. Cabbage, peppers,

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WELLBEING

Time for men to have a talk Tania Phillips IT SEEMS unusual for a book to be launched in a gym but then nothing about author Henri Rennie could be classed as ordinary or usual. The Ballina-based writer, journalist, director, actor and playwright has been writing since he can remember and has a been a playwright for more than 40 years – first adapting Aesop’s Fables as a school play in Grade Five. A published author, several times over, his first book, A Bunch of Old Bastards, was first printed in 2008, and The Wizard of Waramanga came next (the first in a contemporary fantasy series entitled The Books of Dubious Magic). So why should such a man choose to launch his latest book in a gym? Just as Rennie is no ordinary bloke, Move It Like You Mean It is no ordinary book and so Jetts Gym in Ballina Central Shopping Centre, just before the start of Parkinson’s Awareness Month, seemed the perfect time and perfect place. The book is the second in his series about men’s health (although this one encompasses both genders) and the subject matter is Parkinson’s disease. Henri said he hoped the book offered valuable information about the disease, including some strategies that may make living with the symptoms easier. “A main message of the book is the importance of regular, deliberate movement in managing the effects of Parkinson’s,” he said. That is something Jetts gym manager Kallum Fidoe was more than happy to get behind when Henri approached him

about last month’s launch. “We are really happy to be involved,” Mr Fidoe said before the launch at the end of March. “We have regular clients with Parkinson’s and other health issues, and we see the difference that being active makes in their lives.” So how does a man better known for writing plays and fantasy find himself writing about Parkinson’s? It’s another one of those Henri stories you don’t expect. It wasn’t through a friend or family member with the disease. Instead it started as a job revamping a website – though he does have a “mate story” that starts this latest venture into medical books, specifically books in plain English about men’s health issues. “This is the second in a series with more to come,” he said. “A few years ago I was standing in a bar with a mate. He said he had three friends who turned 45, two had committed suicide and one had wrapped his expensive car around a tree. He was turning 45 in a few weeks and he asked why men had mid-life crises at that age. I was a bit older than him and had survived turning 45 but I thought ‘that’s a good question’.” It was a question good enough to have Henri researching and eventually writing a book on men’s health because he discovered that men really don’t talk about health and other personal worries. He said many men would rather die than seek help and so his book was born, taking out the doctor speak and medical jargon and reading more like two mates talking in a pub together. And so when he was

‘‘

The new book is the second in his series about men’s health

asked to work on a website outlining the resources available to Parkinson’s sufferers on the Northern Rivers and read scary statistics – such as one in 300 Australians is diagnosed

HEALTHY REVELATIONS: Author Henri Rennie with Jetts Gym manager Kallum Fidoe. with Parkinson’s and 38 more people are added to that list each day – he knew this would be his next book. “It was going to be quick just using the information on the website,” he laughed, saying that he had now talked to people all over the world and spent a lot more time researching.

And while the information in the book is up to date, Henri said research was ongoing and so the book was a “moveable feast”. The book has been written for people with Parkinson’s, their carers, and importantly, for those who might be at risk, because while figures show that around one in

300 Australians are known to have Parkinson’s, Henri Rennie is sure the real figure is much higher. “The effects of Parkinson’s are often very gradual, and not recognised until the condition is well advanced,” he said. “The earlier it’s spotted, the better it can be managed.”

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APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

How to share the space Attwood Marshall Lawyers

EXPERT: Attwood Marshall lawyer Angela Harry. the pension entitlements of the parent. However, the ‘granny flat’ rules allow for any property transferred or money paid to the parent’s children to be exempt from the usual deeming legislation by Centrelink. What qualifies as a granny flat? You do not actually have to build a separate granny flat or a separate residence. As long as there is a designated room or area that allows for a parents’ exclusive occupancy and there is an agreement to support the arrangement, Centrelink will usually approve the arrangement. Rooms such a loft room, duplex, a room in an apartment, can all come under a granny flat agreement. What assets can you transfer in exchange for a granny flat interest? ■ ownership of your home

■ some of your other assets (money, for example) How does Centrelink assess the granny flat interest? Centrelink will look at the value of the asset transferred to see if you paid a ‘reasonable amount’. If Centrelink consider you have transferred more than the value of the granny flat right they will determine you have deprived yourself of an asset. This could affect the amount of pension you are paid. You need to advise Centrelink what you transferred to the home owner in exchange for the granny flat interest. How a Granny Flat Agreement can affect your Will? The parties also need to be aware that once the money is given to the child in exchange for the granny

flat interest the money no longer forms part of the parent’s estate. The right only exists in the parent’s lifetime. This means that upon the death of the parent any property or money handed over to the child will not be distributed in accordance with their will. It is, therefore, a good idea to make sure the wills and enduring powers of attorney are updated to marry up with the agreement. This way all family members are protected and everyone knows what is going on. Sometimes jealous siblings cause friction if they are kept in the dark. Does Centrelink recommend you have a lawyer compile your Granny Flat Agreement? Yes, Centrelink recommend that you have a properly drafted legal agreement drawn up to give evidence of the

sour or the parent needing money for a bond to go into an aged care facility. Elder Abuse Something to be aware of is that the Australian Law Review Commission found in its 2017 report ‘Elder Abuse - A National Legal Response’ that under an informal granny flat arrangement, if the relationship between parent and child breaks down or the promise of care is not delivered, the older person can be put at a disadvantage and even be left homeless. The ALRC’s next report and suggested reforms are due mid-2019, and may lead to more stringent lawas around Granny Flat Agreement. We highly recommend a legally binding Granny Flat Agreement is written by lawyer to help protect your rights. ■ Wills & Estates Partner Angela Harry leads the Wills & Estate Department. Angela holds a Master of Applied Law (Wills & Estates) degree through the College of Law, has completed the College of Laws Certificate in Testamentary Trusts and the Queensland Practice Management Course. Angela also holds membership with the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners (STEP). STEP is the worldwide professional association for those advising families across generations. STEP promotes best practice, professional integrity and education to their members Established 1946, Attwood Marshall Lawyers has offices at Robina Town Centre, Kingscliff, NSW, and The Strand Coolangatta. For a free estate planning review phone 1800 621 071 today.

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A GRANNY Flat Agreement can help elderly parents provide gifts to theirchildren whilst retaining their pesnion and to potentially take advantage of Centrelink concessions such as Rent Assistance. While it is an excellent idea for elderly parents looking for a stable home and family support in their retirement, it is important that the parties entering into a Granny Flat Agreement are very clear about the terms under which they enter into this arrangement. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 8.2 per cent of people aged over 65 years live with their family with the living arrangement more likely as you get older, with 12.2 per cent of people over 85 living at home. Many families make an informal agreement between themselves about how an older person would be cared for while living in a granny flat on the family property. Not only does this appear the easier option ‘without paperwork’ it appears frugal, helping children to the primary dwelling while avoiding any capital gains tax which might be incurred through a property transaction. How does it work? For social security purposes, a parent can transfer or sell their home under the granny flat provisions and pay money to their children for a lifetime right or the use of the granny flat (the granny flat interest). Normally the transferred property or funds would be deemed to be a gift and would affect

granny flat interest. To ensure the agreement falls under the granny flat rules the document should, at the very least, confirm you have security of tenure in the property and state whether you are liable for any upkeep of the property or payment of rent. Other factors that should also be considered and included in the agreement include: ■ Who does what for whom (eg cooking, cleaning, washing etc)? ■ Who pays for what (electricity, phone etc)? ■ How much privacy will you have within the home? ■ How much independence will you have to lead your own life versus how tied down will you be by the family’s timetable? ■ How much time do you want to spend with grandchildren, and do you want to be involved in childcare? ■ What happens if your health deteriorates and your care needs change (eg you need to be placed in a nursing home or similar care facility)? Whilst the granny flat exemption allowed by Centrelink is an excellent idea to provide solutions for elderly parents looking for a stable home and family support in their retirement, it is important that the parties are very clear about the terms under which they enter into this arrangement. It is very important to enter into a proper agreement because no matter how close families are, it is amazing how many families have a falling out in this situation and the parent wants their money to be paid back. There needs to be provision for what happens if things turn

73 Albany Street

SENIORS \\APRIL, 2019

WELLBEING

Top tips for a good fit WOMEN are told that ageing well involves getting physically active, but do they know how to make the right clothing choices when doing recreation and competition activities? We asked Berlei’s head designer innovation, Adele Kershaw, to share her tips for choosing the right bra whether we are striding the streets or hitting a competition field. What type of active bra best suits women 60 and over? As we age, our tissue becomes softer and our skin less firm. It’s natural for the Cooper’s ligaments that support the breast to stretch out over time, becoming less effective. The skin also becomes more sensitive and prone to irritation, making close-to-skin comfort of

■ Lack of support in the bra frame adds extra pressure on the shoulders and chest, which can cause complaints in the back, shoulder and neck, especially in women with large breasts. ■ Breast pain due to tight-fitting bras that are uncomfortable with underwire poking out can also lead to blisters on the skin due to rubbing. ■ Breast sagging can result from wearing a loose bra that fails to support the breasts and help keep them in shape. We recommend being open-minded about your size. It’s just a number and the proper fit of a bra is the most important part. How important is breast bounce? Breast support is important for all women when active. Women with softer tissue are particularly prone to pain and damage when active. It’s not possible to cure the damage to breasts once they have been impacted and so the solution is really in support for prevention. What to look for in

selecting a bra? Consider the type of activity you will be using the bra for and therefore what support factor you will need: ■ In a sports garment a contour cup will provide more shaping and modesty. ■ Underwire helps separate the breasts and anchor the bra to the body, while a wire-free garment offers more relaxed comfort and freedom to move. ■ Wider straps help distribute the weight of a heavy bust and relieve any pressure you feel through the shoulder. ■ Material should have a strong stretch and feel. When you stretch it in your hand, you should see it return. And as always – fit, fit, fit! Will one bra do? Our research shows that breasts move differently depending on the sport or activity women are doing, however an astounding 76 per cent of women admit to wearing the exact same sports bra no matter what the activity is. A sports bra for yoga will not be the same sports

BREAST HEALTH: Always consider the type of activity you will be using the bra for and therefore what support factor you need. Photo: Berlei bra for running. Most women are conscious of how their breasts feel during exercise because they can bounce around, feel uncomfortable and painful, however they are often unaware of the damage that can happen below the surface to the

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soft tissue and delicate Cooper’s ligaments inside their breasts. It is important to wear the correct sports bra during exercise activities and we encourage women to prioritise their breasts by choosing the correct support when it comes to sport.

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Ocea n Rd

Tracey Johnstone

active bras even more important to ensure the skin is not damaged from chaffing or ill-fitting support. For these reasons it’s particularly important for this demographic to ensure they are wearing the correct size and support level for their activity. Should we get fitted for a bra? The bra will only provide the level of support advertised if you are wearing the correct size and so it’s crucial that you get fitted and understand your breast size and shape. It’s important to get professionally fitted every six months because women’s breast sizes change over the course of their lives: ■ Our bodies change all the time as we gain and lose weight, and as we lose muscle tone. ■ There are many health risks in not wearing the correct size bra. Scarring under the breast is a common problem if the bra is far too tight, which causes it to dig into and rub on flesh.

Gorgon St

The right bra makes being active more comfortable

WELLBEING

APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

Mind and body balance

There’s more to beds than simply sleeping BRAND INSIGHTS WHEN your old bed is dead and the time comes to go hunting for a new one, Harvey Norman Coffs Harbour’s Amanda Rosen is well placed to point you in the right direction. Amanda has been a proprietor with the Harvey Norman Group for almost 10 years now – plenty of time to hone a keen eye for the bedding trends and comfort features that resonate with customers. When it comes to the style side of buying a bed, which after all is the biggest bit of furniture in most bedrooms, Amanda is proud to be able to offer customers the chance to tailor their beds to suit the style of their interior design. Customers are able to pick the stains, fabrics and colours of the bed designs to match their personal style. In fact, Amanda invites Seniors readers to call in and talk to her about the look and feel they are after for their bedroom to see if she can help.

“You might have a beachy look or want to keep your design matching the era of your home,” Amanda said. “I’m always happy to do some research and see if we can find the furniture to match your ideas.” The largest chunk of our time is spent in bed, so it’s important to get the best night’s sleep possible. Amanda said the Body Balance Beds are very popular at the moment. The information supplied with the beds says: “These Australian made gems relieve pressure points, aches and pains and are fantastic for back issues and arthritis. “The Body Balance range offers regulating fabric which means you won’t be too hot or too cold. “Originally developed for NASA, Outlast® intuitively responds to individual body temperature, and utilises phase change materials to absorb, store and release heat to maintain

BEDDING EXPERT: Harvey Norman Coffs Harbour’s Amanda Rosen is able to offer customers the chance to tailor their beds to suit their interior design. optimal sleeping comfort. “The memory foam provides excellent pressure relief and comfort. “It cradles the curves of your body while evenly distributing body weight and alleviating pressure

points for a more comfortable sleep. Find your ideal position for sleeping or relaxing or even indulge in a soothing massage. “Each Body Balance mattress is adjustable base-friendly, allowing you

to reach your optimal level of comfort whether you’re sleeping or simply relaxing.” Check out the back cover of this publication which has some great offers on Body Balance Beds and feel free to talk

to Amanda in store. She lives and breathes “helping people”. For more, phone Harvey Norman at Homebase Coffs Harbour on 02 6653 0300.

Don’t live with dental pain, there’s a plan for you heart attacks, strokes and other heart disease conditions. In fact, according to the American Academy of Periodontology, people with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to have coronary artery disease or heart disease. Pneumonia Poor oral health has been linked to pneumonia in older adults. By breathing in bacterial droplets from the mouth

to the lungs, you are more susceptible to this condition. Diabetes Severe gum disease, also called periodontitis, hinders the body’s ability to use insulin. High blood sugar, which is an effect of diabetes, can lead to gum infection. Gum Disease This is caused by plaque and food left in your teeth, in addition to the use of tobacco,

unhealthy diets, poor fitting bridges and dentures, and diseases like anemia, cancer and diabetes. Gum disease can instigate tooth loss and can be very serious for overall health as it has been linked to many problems in the body. Dry Mouth This can be a side effect of taking medications as well as cancer treatments that use radiation to the head

and neck area. Saliva keeps the mouth wet, which protects teeth from decay and prevents infection by controlling bacteria, viruses and fungi in the mouth. Uneven Jawbone When teeth are lost and not replaced with false teeth, the rest of the teeth have a tendency to drift and shift into open spaces creating an uneven jawbone which can create bite issues.

Denture-Induced Stomatitis Caused by poor fitting dentures this condition is an inflammation of the tissue underlying a denture. All of these reasons make senior dental care a priority. It’s important to schedule dental check-ups every six months with qualified dentists. Phone Brad Pearce Dental today on 02 6651 1222.

Win a double pass to see “The Chaperone” The Chaperone takes place amid the backdrop of the tumultuous times of the early 1920’s. The life of a Kansas woman (Elizabeth McGovern, Downton Abbey) is forever changed when she chaperones a beautiful and talented 15-year-old dancer named Louise Brooks to New York for the summer. One of them is eager to fulfil her destiny of dance and movie stardom; the other hopes to unearth the mysteries of her past.

The Film reunites the writer, director and star of Downton Abbey TV Series. The Chaperone, based on Laura Moriarty’s best-selling book, is scripted by Julian Fellowes, directed by Michael Engler, and stars Elizabeth McGovern, who played Lady Grantham in the hit series. Movie hits cinemas on April 25th. Want to see what happens in the movie? We have three double passes to giveaway. To be in the draw, just fill in our form online at seniorsnews.com.au/competitions Image credit to StudioCanal

^Visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitionterms for full competition terms and conditions. Promoter is ARM Specialist Media Pty Ltd of 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore Qld 4558. Promotional period 01/04/19 - 24/04/19. Competition drawn 2pm 24/04/19 at Cnr Mayne Rd and Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006. Winners announced in Seniors June Edition 2019. Total prize value $120 (including GST). Entry is open to all permanent residents of Queensland living in the regions of Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Wide Bay and Toowoomba and New South Wales living in the regions of Northern NSW, Central Coast and Coffs and Clarence. Authorised under Permit NSW/LTPM/18/03133

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AS WE age dental health seems to be one of the personal hygiene steps that can be forgotten. Since dental health is connected to whole-body health, it’s important that you make it a priority and these issues need to be taken seriously. Heart Disease There is a connection between gum disease and heart health. Maintaining good oral hygiene is a powerful tool against

SENIORS \\APRIL, 2019

Retire in a lifestyle of luxury BRAND INSIGHTS SOLITARY Islands Village is committed to making your retirement years the best they can be. A luxury retirement lifestyle that enriches both body and mind; a sense of community that encourages camaraderie and collaboration. Solitary Islands Village is the obvious choice when looking for over 55 villages in NSW. Encouraging a peaceful and idyllic lifestyle, Solitary Islands Village is offering a selection of quality designer homes for those seeking tranquillity in a spectacular environment. With a choice of two or three bedrooms villas, these homes are stylish and contemporary in their design. They offer open-plan

living and dining areas plus well-appointed kitchens equipped with modern appliances that flow onto alfresco terraces. Each bedroom features built-in robes and the master bedrooms in the three bedroom villas also include an ensuite. The modern bathrooms with frame-less showers are tiled floor-to-ceiling, while parking includes lock-up garages with internal access and electric controlled panel-lift doors. Monitored CCTV will be installed into indoor and outdoor common areas with an emergency help alarm fitted to each villa. All villas will have security screens and locks and landscaped gardens will be supplied to each villa while common areas will be landscaped throughout.

Living

ARRAY OF AMENITIES: Solitary Islands Village will provide facilities to encourage a healthy and active lifestyle, while the nearby town of Woolgoolga offers top dining options, bowling club and beaches. Photo: Wavebreakmedia Ltd The villas reflect the warm, modern style often seen in the most sought-after homes upon our beautiful coastline. The village also has additional on-site car spots for guests plus an array of services including a community centre, restaurant, 24 hour on call staff and emergency services. The village will provide an array of facilities and amenities to encourage a healthy and active

lifestyle. Choose from dining on-site at the restaurant which seats 70 and is open to the public; or having restaurant quality meals delivered to your door. Meal plans are available â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so you can choose to dine in or opt for home delivery. The nearby town of Woolgoolga is only a short eight minute drive from the village. Woolgoolga is an iconic

beachside location offering amazing dining options, bowling club, RSL club, multiple medical centres, pharmacies, ambulance station, fire station, Woolworths, fashion outlets and pristine beaches. The village shuttle or buses are available to transport you into Woolgoolga. For those with a passion for golf, Safety Beach golf course is a short drive away in your

car or golf cart. With an on-site display home making it easier to imagine your lifestyle at Solitary Island Village, feel free to check out our website for display home open times or book a private inspection. Go to mcgrath.com.au. Frequently asked questions are consistently updated on Solitary Island Village website, so go to solitaryislandsvillage.com /villa-deposit-faq.

LIVING

APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

We can face up to truth

TWO new surveys show older people want a straight answer from their doctor to one of life’s weightiest questions, but clinicians are often reluctant to give one. The research led by Bond University’s Associate Professor Magnolia Cardona reveals older Australians want the truth about their prognosis, even if it is bad news. Doctors and nurses however prefer to be cautious because of uncertainty around life expectancy and pressure from families asking them to withhold information from terminal patients. There is also a perception that patients and families lack the knowledge to make informed decisions. “While this may have been the case 15 years ago, our recent findings strongly suggest that the public today may be more willing than clinicians realise to talk openly about what is in store and how or where they want to die,” Dr Cardona said. Medical literature and the study showed the culture of “doctor knows best” was changing and shared decision-making near the end of life “should become the norm”. The study was published in the Australasian Journal on Ageing.

ON TRIAL: NSW TrainLink is encouraging customers to utilise the new service and give feedback to ensure the success of the trial.

Connecting our NSW communities

COMMUNITY members from Forster to Coffs Harbour will now find it easier to travel the North Coast thanks to a new trial coach service launched by NSW TrainLink. The six month trial started on Monday, April 8 and will run every Monday and Friday for the next six months. Travellers, families and local businesses will now have a direct connection to North Coast towns such as Taree and Port Macquarie with the ability to come home on the

A new trial coach service has been launched by NSW TrainLink same day. The return coach service will operate on Mondays and Fridays between Forster and Coffs Harbour with stops including Taree, Cundletown, Coopernook, Kew, Wauchope, Port Macquarie, Kempsey, Frederickton, Macksville, Nambucca Heads and Urunga. The trial coach service will be re-evaluated at the end of the trial based on usage and customer feedback throughout the

six months to see if it will be made permanent. Originally the trial was proposed to begin in Taree, however following community feedback prior to the trial, NSW TrainLink extended the route to Forster after community members expressed a desire for that service. NSW TrainLink is encouraging customers to utilise the service and give feedback to ensure the success of the trial. The coaches operating on the service are a

state-of-the-art 41-seater with two wheelchair spaces, and an onboard toilet. The service is part of the organisations aim to provide quicker, cheaper and easier connections for regional NSW. These coach trials are a complementary addition to the existing rail services and aim to connect communities in regional NSW. The service joins similar trials in the Central West and from Wagga

Wagga to Canberra launched this month by NSW TrainLink, as well as four others launched in 2018. In 2018 NSW TrainLink launched a trial for travellers to the North Coast connecting Tamworth and Port Macquarie. To book a ticket on this trial and any other NSW TrainLink service, go to transportnsw.info /regional or phone 13 22 32.

SENIORS \\APRIL, 2019

Better benefits on offer BRAND INSIGHTS SUBJECT to approval by the members of Holiday Coast Credit Union at the Special General Meeting on May 29, members of Holiday Coast can expect immediate benefits from day one of a merger with Regional Australia Bank. ■ Better Value for Holiday Coast members – less fees, changing to a more contemporary fee structure by removing excess transaction fees and reducing monthly account servicing fees. Better interest rates. An estimated combined value of over $750,000pa* in savings for Holiday Coast members. Commitment to face-to-face branch banking will continue as both organisations are people focused and share

a commitment to maintaining and evolving face-to-face services. ■ Better Access to products and services. Combining our key digital services to improve your mobile and internet banking experience, including, online lending capability for convenient 24/7 access to loan applications and approvals. Maintaining Apple and Android Pay payments from your mobile device as well as Osko and PAY ID for real time transfers. Broader product range with shared products and services including a commercial banking product suite. ■ Better Support for each other and our communities. A community focus is one of our shared strengths. In addition to continuing

Money

COMMUNITY FOCUS: All members of Holiday Coast Credit Union are urged to exercise your right to vote in the upcoming Special General Meeting (SGM). Photo: Monkey Business Images traditional event sponsorships, the combined entity will pledge over $1,500,000 each year to our respective regional communities in the form of philanthropic donations to local sporting clubs, community groups and charities. Stronger capital, stronger future – Together we are better equipped to support the growing demand for our lending into the future as people turn away from the ‘Big Four’ banks to our

customer owned banking alternative. We encourage all members of Holiday Coast to exercise your right to vote in the upcoming Special General Meeting (SGM). You will be receiving a member pack in the coming weeks which will contain Joint Chairs Letter. The Special General Meeting is coming up on Wednesday, May 29 at 5pm. Proxy form for members unable to attend the SGM

to vote on the resolutions. The APRA approved Member Information Document (40 pages) provides relevant information for members to make an informed decision re the merger Instructions on time lines and how to vote Voting is your right as a member and owner of Holiday Coast Credit Union and we encourage you to vote via proxy if you are unable to attend the SGM. Thank you to all our valued members and we

look forward to the new and exciting future with the merger with Regional Australia Bank subject to members approval. This will ensure the continuation of personal relationship banking to you and your family and friends into the future. *Based on a comparative assessment of Holiday Coast Credit Union and Regional Australia Bank loans, savings and investment product interest rates at October 2018.

CLASSIFIEDS

APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

Kitchen too kitsch? Find a redecorator to suit your style at Buy Search Sell.

SENIORS \\APRIL-MAY, 2019

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

7 8 9 11

10 12 13

18 20 21

Across 1 What name is given to a fungus case that emits a cloud of spores when mature? (8) 7 What lettered board is used in a seance? (5) 8 Which rock group was formed in 1970 by Bryan Ferry? (4,5) 9 What hard black lignite is used to make jewellery and ornaments? (3) 10 Which drinking toast is from the Old Norse for “bowl”? (4) 11 In a Shakespearean comedy, where are Proteus and Valentine from? (6) 13 What anagram of “eleven plus two” has the same numerical value? (6,4,3) 15 What is an optical illusion in a desert? (6) 16 What would you expect to ﬁnd in a creel? (4) 18 What is a coral island off the coast of Florida? (3) 20 What is a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment? (9) 21 What protective covers are worn over shoes? (5) 22 What is an abnormal narrowing of a passage in the body? (8)

PUZZLES

Down 1 In which city is Oscar Wilde buried? (5) 2 What small sheltering pit is dug by a soldier? (7) 3 What colloquialism describes a bad theatrical failure? (4) 4 At 5’ 9”, which English jockey became known as “the Long Fellow”? (6,7) 5 What is a person skilled in the Japanese martial art of ninjutsu? (5) 6 Which cross is associated with the St John Ambulance organisation? (7) 7 What creature has eight suckered arms? (7) 12 What is a slang term for piano keys? (7) 13 What word can precede bath, carpet and delight? (7) 14 What are drugs derived from opium? (7) 15 In 1968, where in South Vietnam were 347 civilians massacred by US troops? (2,3) 17 What are decomposed leaves and plants as a constituent of soil? (5) 19 What is a song of praise in Christian worship? (4)

20/4

SUDOKU

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

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

5x5

ALPHAGRAMS

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

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

I 12

A R

E E

Note: more than one solution may be possible.

RENAL MEND IT SAINTLY OVER BEDS ROCKSHAPE

SOLUTIONS

E G R E T

R E E D S

QUICK CROSSWORD Across: 1. Dais 8. Lip service 9. Teetotal 10. Rift 12. Feisty 14. Reason 15. Marred 17. Bother 18. Bend 19. Strategy 21. Role models 22. Kill. Down: 2. Accelerate 3. Slit 4. Apathy 5. Cellar 6. Overcast 7. Debt 11. Flower girl 13. Shredded 16. Despot 17. Barren 18. Burn 20. Task.

How many words of four letters or more can you make? Each letter must be used only once and all words must contain the centre letter. There is at least one nine-letter word. No words starting with a capital are allowed, no plurals ending in s unless the word is also a verb. TODAY: Good 17 Very Good 24 Excellent 31

ALPHAGRAMS: LEARN, MINTED, NASTILY, OBSERVED, PACKHORSE.

R R

B E A R S

641

U T

M I T R E

WORD GO ROUND

SUDOKU

5x5

A S S E T

R S

E E

Down 2. Speed up (10) 3. Narrow opening (4) 4. Indifference (6) 5. Basement (6) 6. Cloudy (8) 7. Liability (4) 11. Wedding attendant (6,4) 13. Torn to pieces (8) 16. Tyrant (6) 17. Infertile (6) 18. Incinerate (4) 20. Allocated job (4)

GK CROSSWORD Across: 1 Puffball, 7 Ouija, 8 Roxy Music, 9 Jet, 10 Skol, 11 Verona, 13 Twelve plus one, 15 Mirage, 16 Fish, 18 Key, 20 Ecosystem, 21 Spats, 22 Stenosis. Down: 1 Paris, 2 Foxhole, 3 Bomb, 4 Lester Piggott, 5 Ninja, 6 Maltese, 7 Octopus, 12 Ivories, 13 Turkish, 14 Opiates, 15 My Lai, 17 Humus, 19 Hymn.

Across 1. Platform (4) 8. Support, without action (3,7) 9. Abstaining from alcohol (8) 10. Falling out (4) 12. Spirited (6) 14. Logic (6) 15. Spoiled (6) 17. Fuss (6) 18. Curve (4) 19. Plan (8) 21. Good examples (4,6) 22. Slay (4)

WORD GO ROUND

cere crest cruet cruse crust cues cure curer cures curse curser curt curter cute cuter cuts ecru erect erects recur recurs recuse rescue rescuer resect RESURRECT scree scut scute secret sect secure securer sucre terce truce

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APRIL, 2019// SENIORS