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MARCH-APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

Longevity: debits/credits

INDEX 3 15 21 22 28 29 31

News – Australia’s newest PhD Wanderlust Community group guide Wellbeing Money What’s on Puzzles

22

Good health & wellbeing at a price

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Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor THIS month we honour Dr David Bottomley’s lifelong learning journey.

Regardless of age, his curiosity to know, learn and contribute to society seems unabated, and they’re the qualities I’m sure we would all like to keep intact.

However, besides academic learning, we, as elders, have a good deal to share with other generations. Personally, I love a day at the river with my granddaughter just chatting about everything we see around us – there’s so much to explore, explain and enjoy as we share our lives.

As we know, one of the key factors changing the world today is increased longevity.

The same as everything else, these extra years have their debits and credits.

This month, our regular double-page feature investigates how authorities are dealing with ageing prisoners. For instance, people in wheelchairs need wider corridors, dementia patients require alternative caring and, ultimately, the big question: should the needs of ageing prisoners be facilitated within the prison system or should they be settled in nursing homes?

And if you don’t think this particular issue has relevance to you, then consider Japan.

According to WHO figures (2015), this is the place humans live the longest.

Japan ranks number one in life expectancy for women (90.1 years) and men (85.1 years).

However, Japan also has the world’s largest ageing prison population – and it seems much of this can be due to social isolation.

Since Australians too are living longer, I see a clear message here on the importance of community relations in our older lives.

Our Wellbeing and Living pages have a wide range of tips on how to lead our best senior lives - from including sunscreen in our morning routine to better sleep habits and, if you have the space, how to grow grapes, and of course, we always end with our whopper puzzle.

Enjoy.

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.

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SOMETIMES life just kicks you in the private parts when you’re already down.

Still reeling from an unforeseen redundancy (#blindsided), a cafe encounter proved I could in fact sink further.

What’s even worse, I had to take it sitting down … in lycra. From bitter

experience, you don’t want to be standing up in public places in that stuff.

Vulnerable children/ fragile grandmothers could be sent into shock.

To be fair, I will concede mitigating circumstances in the establishment’s defence. In the lead-up to my humbling experience, I did change tables several times a la Goldilocks, minus the long blonde hair (‘this table is too exposed to the wind, this table is too noisy, this table is just right’).

And with each change, different young staffers

asked if they could take my order.

“Not yet thanks, just waiting for a friend” was my unwavering response.

And then it happened.

For purposes of political correctness, I’ll describe my next waitress as a woman with “vast maturity and considerable experience”.

Again, in her defence, my grey stubble was arguably more “dero” than “designer”, but still …

She looked deep into my eyes, maybe even my soul, and asked the same question as the others:

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“Are you ready to order, sir?”

I rolled out my standard answer, but unlike the others, old mate wasn’t quite so easily deterred.

“Are you? Just waiting for a friend, are you?” she asked with a questioning smile.

And that’s when the realisation hit. She thought I was a homeless person sheltering from the elements and indulging in the free tap water. Dressed in lycra.

This was undoubtedly a new low, even by my standards.

SENIORS \\MARCH-APRIL, 2019

COVER STORY

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Australia’s newest PhD Dr gives new life to old knowledge Tracey Johnstone DAVID Bottomley AM is Australia’s newest and oldest PhD graduate after completing his study of ancient school education methods that he believes have relevance to today’s school teachers.

The 94-year-old said his wife, Anne, joked with him that he was a bit slow in getting a PhD, but after seven years of study he finished one year ahead of schedule.

Dr Bottomley finished his first degree in 1948, took up teaching science and maths before moving into working in and studying social and market research.

In 2008, 60 years after his first degree, he completed a Masters in Education.

His love of study and of stretching his mind beyond the norm is in his blood. His father was a minister who welcomed his children to his library.

“I worked my way up from the lowest shelf that I could reach,” he said.

That experience instilled in him an enthusiasm to question everything.

“It’s just a normal process where whatever you are placed in, you want to understand it and question it,” the scholar said.

He cited the Royal Society of London’s motto that a science person should question, never just accept, and look for correlation.

His brother Bob, who has a PhD in enzymatic chemistry, worked with the local flour millers during WWII to transform the protein level of Victorians.

He has a daughter, aged in her 60s, studying for a PhD in music and a granddaughter finishing a degree in medicine.

Dr Bottomley’s Doctor of Philosophy was achieved through West Australia’s Curtin University and under the guidance of Distinguished Professor David Treagust.

“I took five headmasters of equal positions in the 19th

LIFELONG LEARNING: Australia’s oldest PhD graduate, Curtin University’s Dr David Bottomley AM with his wife, Anne.

Photo: Jaimi Joy century, who were quite well known in the field of history of science, and I looked for the similarities and differences within these five,” he said.

Each teacher created within the school curriculum situations which Dr Bottomley’s described as “leading to students fitting in and running within a stimulating environment

to higher learning for themselves”.

Not surprisingly, about half his small home in Melbourne is taken up with his study materials which have grown to almost 80 lever-arch files full of his research.

“It’s a rather crowded one,” Dr Bottomley says with a chuckle.

“I am now redistributing the files with ideas for the

next step.”

The idea of stopping vigorously exercising his mind is all but a brief lapse in this exceptional man’s thinking.

He jokes he is in “great need of a haircut”, and since finishing his PhD, feeling “bored stiff”.

But that is doubtful.

While he might, for a brief moment, have wondered what he would do with himself each day, it’s taken no time for his curiosity to reassert itself.

While Dr Bottomley addresses his need to get more active by heading out the door, pushing his walker around and studying his world, his mind is actively considering his next intellectual challenge.

He has already identified as an outcome of his PhD thesis the subject of his next area of study; “exploring the concomitance of creativity in schools”.

He wants to find some area of interest from this research that will be valuable to current school teachers.

Also on the radar is the wellbeing of his wife of 68

years. Anne lives in an aged care facility close-by.

Dr Bottomley visits her three or four times a week and has keenly observed the environment she is living in.

“We can change our focus by changing one letter,” he said.

Care to cure is what he is talking about.

“The challenge today is cure. What I hope to explore is people with different skills, crossfertilising with each other,” he said.

“I would love to be in the position to make a presentation to this Royal Commission about nursing homes because what I want to say is, ‘heaven’s sake, change the idea of care to cure and you change the whole axis of your thinking about one of the huge problems of today’.

“There is an enormous amount here I don’t know, but I hope to explore.

“I wonder how many vested interests are going to resist me?”

The learning journey is ongoing for this scholar, who happily describes life as “really exciting”.

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MARCH-APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

Dance jam for charity Clarence Valley Plunge Festival hits town March 28 to April 30

Tania Phillips WHEN Brisbane school principal Carol Greenwood and her husband retired to Yamba, little did they know that one of Carol’s hobbies would help her make friends and become an important part of the community.

Carol will host the Nia Dance Jam in Yamba on Friday April 5 from 6pm.

The event, now in its third year, is part of the Clarence Valley Plunge Festival and this year it’s a fundraiser for the CWA and women affected by drought.

The Clarence Valley Plunge Art and Culture Festival is on from March 28 to April 30, with more than 175 festival and fringe events celebrating the region’s art and culture.

It is a chance to do or see something new – like Nia – something that was an occasional hobby for a busy Brisbane school principal but is now

something she teaches twice a week in her new home town of Yamba.

“I’ve been retired since 2013 – I was a primary school principal in Brisbane but we decided to retire to Yamba,” she said, adding that Yamba had been a favourite holiday spot and despite not really knowing anyone, she and her husband now feel right at home.

“I decided to join the Nia classes – I had done it in Brisbane and enjoyed it. But when both of the then teachers said they wouldn’t be continuing, I wondered where I was going to get my Nia fix.”

When the retiring teachers suggested Carol study to teach it herself, she decided to take up the challenge.

“I started teaching later that year and now teach two classes a week,” she said. “Nia is a fun barefoot movement practice set to soul-stirring music designed to cushion the entire body and spirit.”

LIVING IT UP: Carol Greenwood (floral tights at the front) with fellow dancers.

For Carol it has been a way to really become part of her new community and embrace her new quieter, less frantic life. She now has her own community of friends and another way of keeping healthy and fit along with practising yoga several times a week and enjoying walking by the

ocean and along the many beautiful tracks around her home town.

And, of course, she is looking forward to taking off her shoes and joining with other teachers to present more than an hour’s worth of eclectic Nia dance routines in a show that is open to the

entire community.

“Leave your shoes and worries at the door, quiet your mind and be guided into the sensations of your body with Nia. Move in fun ways, sharing the joy of movement to global music and leave sweaty and smiling!” Carol said.

Cost is $15 with all

Photo: Contributed

proceeds going to the CWA. Bring your water, wear comfortable clothes and prepare to have loads of fun .”

For more information, head to Carol’s Facebook – Nia Yamba, go to NiaAustralia.com.au or phone her on 04122 55 306.

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

Doing things the old fashioned way In a time of significant changes across the aged care industry, the parting words of one of Clarence Care + Support Senior coordinators has never rung so true: “If I could just offer one small suggestion………. Click out of google as often as you can and ask the questions of a Senior Citizen. You could get the answer or a suggestion you are looking for without a single click of a mouse along with a smile and a chat as an added extra bonus”.

Not that long ago the inclusion of a telephone within our home was viewed as an interruption of the social connection within a community. Now we have mulit- media platforms such as Email, Facebook, Instagram and the like which totally take away the human connection associated with communication. Queen Elizabeth has been reported to have posted her first Instagram message.

In an age of change we often reflect on the things that we have to do and not on things that we have done well in the past. Whether these changes are good or bad, there as still some fundamental requirements that need to be done to ensure quality care does not get overlooked. “We can get so much from just sitting and talking to each other”.

Recently, one of Clarence Care + Support’s long term Senior coordinators retired after 15years of work within the Home Care field.

As her extended working career spanned over 45 years within the aged care industry, she was able to reflect many stories of her experiences with both service changes and clients alike.

Colleen reflected that “she felt very privileged to have been a small part of the lives of our Clarence Valley’s greatest assets, Our Senior Citizens”.

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Celebrate harmony in Coffs Tania Phillips THE theme of the 13th annual Harmony Festival celebrates everyone’s journey to calling Coffs home, and few would have a more interesting journey than Maitoumbi.

Maitoumbi, who started life as Rebecca, wowed audiences at last year’s festival with her Afro Cardio workshop.

She will be back again at the Coffs Harbour Botanic Gardens on March 31 for this year’s event.

“I love this festival,” said the woman who lives by the mantra “life is a beautiful rhythm”.

And no wonder.

Maitoumbi, who is a self-declared “senior citizen”, is almost an embodiment of the festival – a free spirit who loves music, travelling and

experiencing new cultures. Along with the region’s finest cultural performance groups and world music acts, this year’s Harmony Festival takes an even more adventurous twist, with two exciting new zones added and a spotlight on amazing, delectable, locally produced cultural food.

For Maitoumbi – whose name was given to her in West Africa after she navigated a boat there and means “shine like a star” or “coming from the stars” – this multicultural festival is an extension of the way she lives her life.

Her parents came to Australia after WWII from war-ravaged Malta.

“My mum was pregnant when she left her home country of Malta – mum was North African and dad was Maltese,” she said.

“My mother found out

PERFECT HARMONY: Maitoumbi in action leading festival-goers at last year's Harmony Festival.

Photo: And the Trees

she was pregnant after the war and I was the baby of hope.”

Leaving war-torn Europe, the family eventually found themselves in Australia, with Maitoumbi born in the port of Melbourne as their boat arrived.

She has been travelling the world on boats ever since, working as a navigator, navigating by the stars until an accident in the Reunion Islands which saw her fall down a cliff and damage her back.

This fall led her to a

change in career and lifestyle. Helped by a Guinean in her recovery, she discovered a spiritual and musical calling.

Now she runs Afro Cardio classes at the Girl Guide Hall in Coffs Harbour featuring music from West Africa and is hoping to offer a gentler version in local nursing homes for the older population soon.

Maitoumbi will be just one of the attractions at this year’s festival, which also includes plenty of food with cooking

demonstrations and a cross-cultural cook-off.

There will be performances from all around the world on the main stage.

The Beats and Feets dance tent offers plenty of action, while The Melting Pot area is an artistic space created to allow festival-goers to experience different cultures close up and to celebrate Aussie surf culture.

The non-stop action all comes to a massive culmination at 2pm with

the drumming in of the community parade led by traditional Gumbaynggirr dancers.

Join the procession with over 50 samba drummers or just soak up the spectacle of the parade through the festival grounds to the main stage climax with a gigantic cross-cultural dance-off and explosive colour run.

Come and uncover your common ground on Sunday, March 31 from 9.30am-2.30pm at Coffs Harbour Botanic Gardens.

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At the Coffs Harbour Regional Museum travel back in time to the Tasma Theatre.

Photo: Contributed

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Shining a light on our heritage Tania Phillips TUCKED away in museums big and small all over the Mid North Coast are some rare treasures and some everyday objects with stories to tell – but where to start?

The fascinating and varied history, the changing lifestyles of the region and its rich heritage, is found not only in the stories and collections of museums but in buildings and landscapes and is the focus of a special festival.

The Shine Festival provides the opportunity to shine a light on this

heritage by showcasing it through a number of unique special events, many in the twilight or evening or with a twist on the concept of shining a light on our heritage, according to spokesman Kevin Williams.

“There are over 25 special events across the Mid North Coast from April 22 to 28 as well as many other heritage activities and places to explore,” Kevin said.

“In Dorrigo, they will be telling the story of the Don Dorrigo Gazette, the last letterpress newspaper in Australia.

“Down the Waterfall Way in Bellingen there will be a guided heritage walk

of this historic town but with a hippie twist ending back at the museum for performance and champagne.

“Why not travel out to Woolgoolga and visit the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara Temple and walk the Woolgoolga Heritage Trail to see much more.

“At the Coffs Harbour Regional Museum, you can travel back in time to what was the crown in the jewel, the Tasma Theatre, for lights, camera, action.”

Kevin said Shine was a chance for people to check out the many and extremely varied events at museums in their

immediate community and all around the Mid North Coast.

“There is the chance to climb to the top of Smokey Cape Lighthouse and learn the stories of the lighthouse families who managed the ‘highway of light’,” he said.

“At nearby Trial Bay Gaol there are tours promising tales of dark and deadly deeds or life behind bars for the grandchildren.”

For information on these events and functions in Hastings and Manning Valleys, visit artsmid northcoast.com/shine.

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The Don Dorrigo Gazette will be the focus of the Shine Festival program in Dorrigo.

Shine Festival will be the perfect time to check out the Smokey Cape Lighthouse.

Photo: David Finnegan

SENIORS \\MARCH-APRIL, 2019

NEWS

7

Birthday book a boost

Fans re-live Buddy Williams’ 100th birthday celebrations YOU’VE seen the show, now read the book as celebrations for Buddy Williams’ 100th birthday continue in Dorrigo.

In September last year, the Don Dorrigo and Guy Fawkes Historical Society put together a whole weekend of celebrations to mark what would have been the 100th birthday of one of the region’s favourite sons – country music pioneer Buddy Williams.

The event attracted a large crowd from all over the North Coast and now, to celebrate its success, a book about the event has been released.

Historical society vice-president Georgie Frogley said the book covered all of the major events of the weekend, in front of and behind the scenes, and not only commemorated the occasion but would also help with running the region’s museum.

“The sale of our books supports the running of our museum...keeps the door open and the lights on,” Georgie laughed.

And since they had so many great pictures and memories, the historical society decided that a book of the event would not only mark the occasion but would be a nice keepsake for everyone taking part.

Harold “Buddy” Williams, who died on December 12, 1986, was born Harry Taylor on September 5, 1918, in Newtown, Sydney, and was soon placed in the Glebe Point Orphanage.

After many failed escape bids as a child he was fostered out to a dairy farming family at Dorrigo where he learned to love the area.

He first sang professionally at the Grafton Jacaranda Festival in 1936. His first recordings were made in 1938, a private process disk. The two songs recorded at this session

Nancy Pitkin with her 100-year-old mother Ina Smith, who is reading the page in the book that shows Karen Williams, Buddy’s daughter, visiting Ina in Highview in September 2018. Ina made Buddy his pair of long trousers back when he came to live in Dorrigo.

Photo: Contributed were Where The Jacarandas Bloom, and They Call Me The Clarence River Yodeller. The latter song was reworked and called They Call Me The Ramblin’ Yodeller and

recorded during his first EMI session in 1939.

“The book features photographs from the 100th birthday party held in memory of Buddy Williams at Dr Guymer’s

Waterfall Way Gallery on September 5 – Buddy’s actual birthday,” Georgie said.

“Orders are being taken now...the first lot sold like hot cakes.”

Phone Georgie Frogley on 02 6657 2120 or order at the museum. The Dorrigo Museum is open Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday 10am-2.30pm.

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Early test for new boss Improved standards of aged care top of agenda

THE new Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner has a big job ahead of her, keeping watch over a rapidly changing sector as it provides vital services for older Australians, writes Jennifer Hullick.

After the dire challenges faced by aged care service recipients and providers in recent years – with the Oakden nursing home tragedy at the forefront – the sector is undergoing major change across Australia, says new federal Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner Janet Anderson.

Anderson took up her position on January 2, at the head of the new national commission which replaces the Aged Care Complaints Commissioner and the Australian Aged Care Quality Agency.

The commission’s purpose is to hold aged care service providers to account and to attend to recipients’ complaints.

“Under our Act, we are required to ... enhance the safety, health, quality of life and wellbeing of aged care recipients,” Anderson said.

“It’s making sure that aged care providers receiving Commonwealth subsidies are doing the job that is expected of them.

“Those standards – which are about to change – set out as clearly as possible the way in which services need to be delivered, but more particularly the outcome being sought from the delivery of care.

AGED CARE ROYAL COMMISSION ❚ It’s been a baptism of fire for new Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner Janet Anderson, with The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety opening in Adelaide on January 18 just two weeks after she started in the job ❚ Senior Counsel Assisting Peter Gray told the preliminary hearing that 54 per cent of submissions raised issues about unsafe care, while 59 per cent aired concerns about staffing ratios ❚ The first formal hearings of the Royal Commission were held in mid-February

The new Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner, Janet Anderson, is determined to ensure that aged care providers receiving government subsidies are meeting the standards expected of them.

Photo: Britta Campion “My audit teams go into nursing homes and look at the home care services and make an assessment of the extent to which those services are compliant with the standards.

“That’s a core function.”

Aged Care Minister Ken Wyatt said the new commission would better target substandard care and work to ensure the safety of older Australians.

“A single commissioner overseeing compliance monitoring, complaints and customer service means no more silos,” Wyatt said.

“For the first time, senior Australians and their loved ones have one place to go when they need help, want to raise a concern or access information about an aged care service.

“The commission will also be empowered by the

new aged care Charter of Rights and will implement the new, stronger set of Aged Care Quality Standards, the first upgrade of standards in 20 years.”

Speaking soon after taking on the new role, Anderson said she was optimistic about the future of the sector, with ongoing changes aimed at improving outcomes for older people.

“We are also looking to

develop Consumer Experience Reports by home care recipients,” she said.

The report system is an innovation recently introduced in nursing homes, which is revealing a raft of additional information previously unavailable to watchdog agencies or consumers.

“If you go on our website, you can search by nursing home and find what the residents are

saying and their feedback on the care they are receiving,” Anderson said.

“We haven’t yet introduced that for home care recipients but we are looking at the design ... so we can get the voice of the home care consumer as richly as we’ve now managed it for nursing home recipients.”

Anderson said, in more than 90 per cent of cases, the commission had been able to achieve a resolution of consumer complaints to the agency.

To fulfil its role, the commission has regional offices in every jurisdiction except the Northern Territory, which is serviced from Adelaide, with auditors making local visits to nursing homes and checking the standard of services from home care and home support providers.

SENIORS \\MARCH-APRIL, 2019

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MARCH-APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

Moving brings new life Alison Houston DID you ever think that moving house could change your identity?

It’s true for all ages, but particularly for seniors choosing to retire overseas, to seaside or rural idylls, from the farm to town or city, to be near family, downsizing or moving to a nursing home.

“Our identities are created and evolve in places,” said Dr Rachael Wallis, of USQ’s Institute for Resilient Regions.

When we move to a new house, particularly if it’s a big move to a new area, we become the newcomer, which influences how we are perceived by others, and how we perceive them.

We lose our “comfort zone” of our local neighbourhood, roads, shops and healthcare we are familiar with, people and faces we know, perhaps even behaviours and attitudes we expect.

If you no longer work or have children at school, it can be more difficult to make social connections.

Rachael’s research has

shown that people who become actively involved in their new community, through social or sporting clubs and charities or volunteering, thereby getting to know people and making new friends, have much happier and more successful moves.

Being open to changing your own ways and attitudes was also important, particularly if you moved to a country with a different culture.

“The people who adapt most easily are those who get themselves involved and find a community of people they can talk to easily,” Rachael said.

“It’s important to be satisfied and happy in yourself in order to make inroads into making a new life.”

Being realistic about the things you can and cannot control is important.

For instance moving solely to be near family who already have their own full life, and expecting them to change for you, could be setting yourself up for failure.

“You need to clearly establish guidelines so

AT HOME: Dr Rachael Wallis said our identities are shaped by our environment, and our choices are heavily influenced by media, such as this image of herself at home in a pretty Toowoomba country setting.

Photo: Bruce Woolley everyone’s expectations are clear from the start,” Rachael said.

It was also very important, she said, not to underestimate how much our ideas are influenced by the media in all its forms when making our decisions, and to fact-check as much as

possible.

People reported being influenced towards sea or tree changes by programs as far back as the 1970s British TV series The Good Life, through to A Country Practice, Sea Change and River Cottage, as well as by movies, books, poetry and art, painting an idyllic

small-town life, without importing into that picture the realities and demands of their own lives.

Unlike other moves, which are generally seen as positive, providing new-found freedom, job options or the chance to have a family, for seniors forced to downsize or

move into a nursing home due to health concerns, moving is often associated with negative emotions, fear and loss of independence.

“The important thing is that it is that person’s decision,” Rachael said.

Taking a proactive approach was again the key to success, she said, looking at downsizing or accepting home care help, for instance, as means of maintaining independence, and accepting having lived long enough to reach the age of needing help as a positive.

“What is most important is to have good relationships and for life to be meaningful,” Rachael said.

That could mean completing a crossword, reading, helping a neighbour, keeping in touch by phone, letters or social media, or whatever your situation allows to stay interested and ward off isolation.

“It all helps you feel bigger than yourself – that you are useful and you are not facing ageing on your own.”

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12

NEWS

MARCH-APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

The new, true costs of Tracey Johnstone

AGEING JUSTICE: A snapshot of life inside the NSW Justice Health and Forensic Mental Health Network at Long Bay Correctional Centre.

Photo: NSW Justice Health first-time prisoners incarcerated at an older age, inmates who are growing old in prison due to long sentences, and those who commit crime as a result of cognitive damage or decline.

GOING UP

The number of senior prisioners is increasing and so too is the cost of providing appropriate aged care health support and facilities which they have a right to access as stipulated under the UN Human Rights Committee in its International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights . In particular, this states the right of a prisoner to be treated with humanity, dignity and respect while in detention.

At June 30, 2018 there were 5,554 prisoners aged 50 years and over – 94.3 per cent male and 5.7 per cent female – adding to Australia’s burgeoning prison

population.

This is an increase of 81.6 per cent between 2001 and 2010, and another increase of 67 per cent from 2010 to 2018.

At the same June date there were 1,156 prisoners aged 65 years and over – 97.2 per cent male and 2.7 per cent female.

Between 2001 and 2010 there was an increase of about 128 per cent, and a further increase of 119.4 per cent during the years to 2018.

The ABS in its Prisoners in Australia Report 2018 noted 62 per cent of the prisoners aged 65 and over have a “serious offence/charge of sexual assault and related offences”.

The increase in numbers isn’t due solely to an ageing Australian population.

“Another part of it is some of the changes we have had to sentencing laws and parole laws,” Mr

Willis said.

Parole is now harder to get, which can result in people staying in prison for longer.

There has also been improvements in DNA technology, investigative techniques and information handling which have all impacted on prosecuting old offences, including sex offences which can carry long life sentences.

The consequence of the growth in older prisoners is an increase in remand costs due to specialist service delivery and facilities, changes to prison activities and upskilling correction and health services staff to cater for this cohort.

In 2013-14 it was costing about $292 per prisoner per day according to the Report on Government Services 2015.

The 1999 AIC report Elderly inmates: issues for Australia calculated that cost increases

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three-fold for ageing prisoners.

WHO’S IN CHARGE

Currently eight jurisdictions look after prisoner welfare in Australia, each with its own ageing prisoner management approach.

UNSW Kirby Institute researcher Dr Natasha Ginnivan suggests it’s time for a national policy approach to deal with accelerated ageing.

“Because there isn’t a management plan in place for dementia, cognitive impairment or frailty, or pre-frailty which is a measure that has been used in population ageing, we don’t know the prevalence of some of the muscular-skeletal and mild cognitive concerns within this population,” Dr Ginnivan said.

“We know that when they get to a certain stage it becomes very expensive to house them when they are frail, not withstanding the human rights issues

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PHIL Goulding stopped talking. It was only for a few moments, but the silence was noticeable.

Up until then our conversation had been flowing freely.

You see, we were talking about the face of ageing prisoners in Australia and it was quickly evident there is a lot of sensitivity around the subject.

Mr Goulding is the deputy general manager of operations at Melbourne’s Wintringham, a specialist aged care provider for the homeless and disadvantaged. He is a member of a growing cohort of professionals across Australia gradually peeling back the layers to reveal the challenges for ageing prisoners who are in custody, rehabilitation or on release from prison, and for the corrective and justice health care workers managing these people.

The professionals are focused on people aged 50 and over; in the prison system they are considered ‘ageing’.

Many of them have entered the system with chronic health issues brought on by drug and alcohol use, poor nutrition, lack of medical care and, for some, after spending a lot of their life in both prison and juvenile detention.

All of this escalates age-related illnesses.

Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) researcher Matthew Willis said these factors often resulted in high levels of physical, mental health and cognitive impairment, and higher vulnerability to victimisation within the general prison population.

These ageing prisoners fall loosely into four categories – recidivists,

around providing appropriate care.”

NSW, then Queensland and Victoria have the greatest number of ageing prisoners.

In NSW, a Correction Services spokesperson reports most of the state’s older inmates are in mainstream facilities and their medical or disability concerns are considered, including placement in bottom bunks or ground floor placement.

“The infrastructure at some facilities has also been modified with hand-rails above beds and in bathrooms, easy-to-use taps and ramps in yards,” the spokesperson said.

Elderly and frail inmates are located in the Long Bay Aged Care Rehabilitation Unit and the Kevin Waller Unit.

Old-age and neuro psychiatrist Dr Sharon Reutens said NSW had speciality psychiatrists and geriatricians, and speciality units to address the problems around dementia in ageing prisoners.

Corrections Victoria (CV) developed a framework for 2015-2020 which identifies actions around designing and managing its correction services to meet the needs of its ageing prisoners. Subsequently, CV last month entered a contract with Wintringham.

Mr Goulding said: “We’ve been asked to provide advice on older prisoners and assessing them for their care needs.”

“It’s a really positive step. It’s the first time there is an acknowledgement that there is a gap.”

Over the next three years they will look at two prisons to identify aged care needs, including where some prisoners

SENIORS \\MARCH-APRIL, 2019

NEWS

ageing prisoners

won’t admit their needs as they don’t want to be transferred.

“At the end of the project, then further planning will be done.”

Many of Victoria’s ageing prisoners are in a handful of centres such as Port Phillip Prison and the Hopkins Correctional Centre, which has recently been refurbished specifically to cater for prisoners needing aged care support.

The Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) spokesperson said “while prison can be a challenging environment for older prisoners, every reasonable effort is made to support them while in our custody”.

CRITICAL CHALLENGES

Long Bay Correctional Centre staff help elderly inmates tend to their bonsai plants.

Photo: Corrective Services NSW

quite demented.”

When it comes to leaving prison at the end of a sentence or when parole is available, the options are limited if the person has aged care needs.

“Where do you put a sex offender?” Mr Goulding asked.

“In a good world, once you have done your time, everything is fine.”

Mr Willis said: “In the case of older people, you are potentially releasing people who have

completed their sentence at quite an advanced age and needing specialist care and specialist type of accommodation, and in a lot of cases not having family and people who can provide that kind of support for them.”

Under 65 the choice is NDIS. Over 65, it’s My Aged Care.

But the wait times can be up to two years.

“There can be a hiatus on release for some older prisoners and then they will probably end up with a

GP or in a hospital and the system will pick them up,” Mr Willis said.

The QCS said on release it connects eligible prisoners to the NDIS and aged care services.

In Melbourne, Wintringham has an accommodation facility.

In Sydney there is a new HammondCare venue.

“HammondCare does not discriminate based on the criminal history of any potential residents,” residential care general manager Angela Raguz said.

“When the Darlinghurst aged care venue for homelessness people is open, entry will be based on several factors including the physical, psychological and social needs of potential residents, as well as the safety of staff and other residents.”

There is the opportunity for the issues around the health and wellbeing of ageing prisoners, which currently seems to be bubbling away under the surface of the community, to be addressed through the Aged Care Royal Commission.

A spokesperson for the Commission said it may accept submissions on prison aged care and other services offered in prisons

FORETOLD forewarned: Increased longevity is a fact of life in many parts of the planet, but it is Japan that boasts the world’s best longevity rates, with 27.3 per cent of its citizens 65 years or older.

However, on the flip side of the coin, complaints and arrests involving elderly Japanese people, and women in particular, are taking place at rates above those of any other demographic in the country.

Almost one in five women in a Japanese prison is a senior. Their crimes are usually minor – nine in 10 senior women who’ve been convicted were

‘‘

Almost one in five women in a Japanese prison is a senior. found guilty of shoplifting.

As social policies are formed to serve increasing longevity in the Australian population, reasons behind the imprisonment rate of Japanese seniors for minor crimes is something that should be kept in mind.

The minor nature of the crimes appears to be a cry for help in a

world where the social position of a very old (in numbers), yet healthy and active person has not yet been established long enough to have attained associated community institutions, structures and societal relations.

In some cases these seniors are the first of three or four generations of family but are unable to access help from busy younger family members, or perhaps they are coping as the first and only generation.

While we live longer lives, adjustments need to be made to social, emotional and/or financial resources available.

Japanese statistics show that from 1980 to 2015, the number of seniors living alone increased more than sixfold, to almost six million.

And a 2017 survey by Tokyo’s government found that more than half of the seniors caught shoplifting lived alone, while 40 per cent either don’t have family or rarely speak with relatives.

These people often say they have no one to turn to when they need help.

Further research by the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting and the International Women’s Media Foundation identified women as suffering not only financial strain, but loneliness and a lack of purpose.

Sadly, prison was where they found a roof over their head and regular meals, along with companionship.

Source: Various associated stories including Bloomberg Report

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In most states correctional facilities are cognisant of, or acting on, providing some facilities for ageing prisoners.

But Dr Reutens questions how will justice health not only identify, but also cater for the complexities of dementia.

“We need a societal discussion about it,” she said.

“I think it has to stem from what is the purpose of prison and does incarcerating cognitively impaired people fulfil the purpose of the prison which is to deter and rehabilitate.

“Can that be adequately addressed by imprisonment in a culturally impaired population?

“It’s really hard in prison because everything is done for you.

“You don’t make your breakfast, you have no household chores; all your activities for living are taken over so it can be really hard to identify.

Someone can slip under the radar until they are

A world grappling with longevity issues

Gail Forrer

Acacia Prison in West Australia which has speciality aged care facilities included its design.

Photo: Russell Barton

13

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FEATURE

MARCH-APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

APRIL FALLS PREVENTION

Falls and frailty in focus Frailty is a risk factor for poorer health outcomes including falls, hospitalisation, admission to residential aged care and disability.

It can be measured by looking at deficits related to fatigue, strength,

mobility, illness and loss of weight.

It is important to work on the prevention.

This can be done by spotting the signs of poor nutrition and hydration and implementing immediate assistance and solutions.

Environmental changes making life safer at home Frailty is a risk factor for poorer health outcomes.

Ageing independently and gracefully A NEW wave of user-friendly technology solutions is enabling seniors to live independently for longer.

The key for older Australians is to embrace the change, as tech becomes simpler, more affordable, and ultimately more empowering.

Jenny is an outgoing retiree who lives alone.

She’s an active member of her community and enjoys travelling, volunteering, and spending time with her young grandchildren who visit regularly from the city. Jenny cherishes her independence, and like the vast majority of Australians, she wants to stay living in her own home for as long as

possible, something Jenny’s two adult children firmly support.

However, as she gets older and her sight and balance aren’t what they used to be, Jenny and her children share one common concern – what if she has a fall and no one is there to help her? The traditional solution? A wearable, rechargeable, push-button alarm system.

The problem? Research has shown that as a stand alone solution, these are largely ineffective. For one reason or another, a majority of people who own a traditional wearable device simply do not have access to them when they need them.

Today’s answer? Smart, unobtrusive devices that respect your privacy while playing constant companion, only alerting loved ones or carers if something is potentially wrong. Take for example an ‘always-on’ in-home solution that picks up and understands your regular patterns of movement and lets your family know if and when there is cause for concern. Or, a smart watch providing continuous feedback to your health care provider on vital statistics like blood sugar, body temperature, blood pressure and more. We even expect to see ‘smart contact lenses’ in the near future that are capable of monitoring and

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communicating the wearers’ glucose levels.

These simple yet transformative solutions are helping seniors to live with the convenience, freedom and peace of mind that comes from knowing they are constantly connected. And while in the past they may have been clunky, costly, or overly complicated, today they’re affordable, sleek, and generally very user friendly.

So maybe it’s time to ditch the belief that technology is all too hard, and instead embrace it for all it has to offer.

James Tucker is General Manager of AbiBird Australia, email jamest@abibird.com.au or go to abibird.com.au.

WITH a huge percentage of injuries in seniors being caused by falls in the home, Shalla from East Coast Accessibility Experts invites you to give her a call to arrange a safety check in your home.

Shalla and her team really care about the wellbeing of seniors and they are passionate about helping locals to gain independence and mobility around the home.

Whether your home needs a minor installation or a complex bathroom and/or kitchen modification, access ramps and lifts, the team can assist with making sure it becomes the most practical and stress-free solution for you.

It can be as simple as a grabrail, hand-held shower, handrail, easy steps and more.

“Our core business is to assist our elders and people with disabilities to change their living environment through planning and prescription, alongside Occupational Therapists, ensuring best outcomes and our quality construction,” Shalla said.

East Coast Accessibility Experts is registered with My Aged Care, National Disability Insurance Scheme, (NDIS) and contract to Home Care Package Providers, Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA), Insurance Companies and others.

They can provide senior discounts and payment plans to eligible individuals.

For more information, phone the reliable and trusted team on (02) 6651 2143.

East Coast Accessibility Experts What environmental changes do you need to make life safer and more accessible, at home and at work?

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APRIL FALLS may be a fun play on words but it’s a serious topic.

The purpose is to promote falls prevention for all patients and assist older people to stay fall-free in the community.

The focus this year is Falls and Frailty.

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SENIORS \\MARCH, 2019

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MARCH, 2019// SENIORS

Musical cruise on Murray SPEND an August night or three with the music of Neil Diamond while gently cruising along the Murray on the paddlewheeler PS Murray Princess.

Entertainer and storyteller Dave Freeman will over three nights take you on an intimate journey into the music of Neil Diamond.

The journey starts on Friday, August 23 with a three-course dinner and dance to the live tunes of gifted keyboard artist Paul Gill.

On Saturday night, Freeman will perform his OMG Neil Diamond Sounds Like Me Show including storytelling, songs, dancing and music from Neil Diamond’s famous Hot August Night album.

On the final night, dance the night away as Dave and Paul provide live entertainment, singing everyone’s favourite songs during the Captain’s Dinner and Dance.

By day the paddlewheeler will travel along the Murray River visiting historic towns and passing by the ever-changing and picturesque river scenery.

There are several stops along the way starting with the Captain’s walk in Mannum, exploring the Murray Bridge township and its historic Round House, stopping at Salt Bush Flat to learn about the thriving ecology of the river and its flora and fauna on a guided nature walk, at River View Lodge get up close to the 20 million-year-old cliffs and amazing birdlife.

Onboard the Murray Princess check out the wheelhouse, join in a music quiz with Paul Gill or play some bocce on the riverbank with Dave Freeman.

Start each morning onboard with a hot buffet

OLD TIME BEAUTY: The paddlewheeler PS Murray Princess.

Photo: Heidi Linehan

Go wild in absolute comfort of Stonestreets fleet

ULTIMATE COMFORT: The pride of the Stonestreets fleet of tour coaches are the mighty 4x4. breakfast and indulge in a two-course or buffet lunch each day. As night falls watch the sunset and enjoy a delicious cocktail before savouring a three-course meal or buffet dinner.

The three-night Hot August Night Music Cruise

departs Mannum at 4.30pm on Friday, August 23.

Early Booking Saver fares start from $944 per person twin share.

The cost includes accommodation, all meals, guided nature walks, eco-excursions,

SOME of Australia’s most spectacular destinations are often found in our most rugged and inhospitable regions.

Locations like Cape York, the Kimberley, Outback South Australia and Central Australia, each unique, striking and shaped by centuries of harsh conditions have become dream travel destinations and bucket-list items for many Australians.

For many would-be adventurers though, the task of tackling the unforgiving conditions that make these regions so beautiful, is daunting. Thankfully there is a way of experiencing the wonders of Australia’s most unspoiled natural wilderness in luxury and

onboard presentations, onboard Wi-Fi, the Captain’s Dinner and Cocktail Party, the OMG Neil Diamond Sounds Like Me Show, entertainment

by Dave Freeman and Paul Gill, use of ship’s facilities including a sun deck, bar, two lounges, restaurant

gentle adventure. Stonestreets Travel is a Queensland-based tour operator, which has been co-ordinating bucket-list worthy, escorted group tours to a host of destinations for more than 20 years.

The pride of the Stonestreets fleet of tour coaches are the mighty 4x4 coaches, which make tackling the rutted roads and creek crossings of the Australian Outback a breeze for travellers.

Contact Stonestreets Travel’s friendly team for a list of 2019 tours or free tour brochures, or view our range of tours online, go to stonestreetstravel.com.au or phone Stonestreets Coaches on (07) 4687 5566.

and a mini gymnasium.

Complimentary scenic coach transfers from Adelaide, or secure car-parking in and Mannum post cruise coach transfers to Adelaide CBD or Adelaide Airport, are also included.

Private car transfers for

up to four people are also available from and to Adelaide CBD to Mannum and return to Adelaide Airport for $150 per person each way, based on two people travelling.

For more information, go to murrayprincess.com.au

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SENIORS \\MARCH, 2019

Travelling solo, not single Tracey Johnstone TRAVELLING solo or travelling single – there is a difference. Dropping the reference to marital status and looking at yourself as a solo adventurer can help you get on the road. But where do you start?

Encounter Travel’s Justine Waddington has put together a guide book, The Solo Traveller’s Compass, for anyone wanting to set off on solo travel experiences. It has over 200 practical tips.

“It’s suited to someone who is a first-time solo traveller or maybe hasn’t travelled for a long time on their own and wants a bit of refresher of things to keep in mind when you are travelling solo,” Justine said.

“And before you travel, what you need to prepare for.”

The book is split into three sections – getting started, before you go and on your trip.

Justine talks about what is stopping people from doing solo travel and how you can unblock those things that they consider barriers to

SINGULAR IMPORTANCE: Encounter Travel’s Norway solo traveller group celebrate Cape Nord and the Midnight Sun experiences. INSET: Justine Waddington. starting a new adventure.

“The book is set around, you don’t have to be alone when you travel solo,” Justine said.

“It talks about joining groups and how to choose the right group as a solo traveller so you feel like

you are going to be joining one that is more suited to you.

“It talks about choosing the right tour and about what to look for when you are flicking through brochures and thinking about which kind of trip

you want to join.”

The book also covers sharing; would you make a good room sharer and what to consider before committing to sharing.

Justine’s travel agency caters for solo travellers many of whom are aged

60 and over. Each tour is a small group with soft adventure experiences high on the agenda.

The alternative type is the “flop and drop” tour to resorts which includes both group activities and time to chill out

individually.

For all tours, rooms can be shared or booked for solo occupation.

During the year Justine also organises traveller events in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast and Melbourne where tour guests reunite and where first-timer guests can meet other solo travellers and learn more about what it is like to head off alone in company.

“Our travellers come from all over Australia,” Justine said.

For copies of The Solo Traveller’s Compass which costs $29 including postage, go to justinewaddington.com.

For more details on solo bookings, take a look at encountertravel.com.au.

Couple still sharing their dream after 15 years BRAND INSIGHTS KEVIN and Glenda Wilson escaped from the fast lane and went to live on the Mid North Coast NSW region of Yarrahapinni in August 2003.

They were both born and educated in Melbourne then lived in Sydney for 20 years.

Before retiring, Kevin worked as a CEO for a multinational engineering company headquartered in Scotland and Glenda

was engaged as a payroll officer for an automotive dealership.

Before working with cars, Glenda was employed by a hotel group where she learnt about the accommodation industry.

With the decision made to retire from the big smoke they needed to find a lifestyle that would keep themselves active and involved with the community at large.

Glenda’s experience in hospitality provided the

incentive to create a purpose-built bed and breakfast.

A 10-acre property was purchased, an architect engaged and building began in July 2004.

The dream was soon realised and Yarrahapinni Homestead went from being an idea to being open for business.

Nestled at the foot of Yarrahapinni Mountain, the luxurious Yarrahapinni Homestead is located on parklike grounds close to unspoilt beaches and

spectacular national parks.

The homestead has three spacious guest suites with ensuites and open verandas.

One room is equipped for disabled guests and wheelchair access is available throughout the property.

Guest rooms are all air-conditioned.

Formal and casual lounges and three separate patios provide numerous retreats where guests can relax.

And on the all-important food front, guests enjoy a sumptuous breakfast, the paper by the fireside in winter or a swim in the pool in summer, all ensuring an unforgettable Yarrahapinni experience.

The B&B has now been in operation for nearly 15 years and Kevin and Glenda have hosted guests from all walks of life and from locations around the world.

They have made many new friends from guests who have returned over

and over to enjoy the experience.

The homestead is ideally located halfway between Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie on the Mid North coast of NSW just 3.4km off the M1 Motorway.

To get there, take the Stuarts Point Interchange – Tourist Drive 14 – along Stuarts Point Rd. For more about the homestead and region, go to yarrahome.com.au.

Luxury B&B 0n 10 parkland acres close to pristine beaches and spectacular rain forests. Large rooms with en-suites, Formal & Casual Lounges, Indoor & Outdoor Dining, BBQ available.

Sumptuous breakfast menu. Easy access from Pacific Motorway midway between Coffs Harbour & Port Macquarie.

LIVING THE DREAM: The Yarrahapinni Homestead is ideally located halfway between Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie on the Mid North Coast of NSW.

340 Stuarts Point Rd Yarrahapinni NSW 2441 • Phone: 0418225810 Email: yarrahome@bigpond.com • Website: www.yarrahome.com.au

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MARCH, 2019// SENIORS

‘‘

I have always enjoyed the company of the Irish, easily warming to their humour and yarns.

STUNNING: Blackrock Castle on the River Lee, Cork, Ireland.

Photo: catherine_jones

Ireland... it’s just like Peter Chapman

From the amazing views to the wonderful people, the impression you get from the flicks is even better in real life

IT MIGHT seem a little strange, but my decision to do a self-drive tour of Ireland was inspired from watching movies centred on the shamrock isle.

They always revealed beautiful scenery, picturesque boutique hotels and friendly Irish pubs.

As I watched I envisaged myself joining in on a song or two while downing a pint of Guinness at McMurphy’s corner pub.

Adding to my views of Ireland was the fact that I have always enjoyed the company of the Irish, easily warming to their humour and yarns.

The chance to make the trip finally came up via a decision to book a 14-day Baltic Sea cruise out of Southampton.

The wife rightly said we can’t go all the way to England and just jump on a cruise ship, we need to combine something with it.

So the decision was made that we’d spend a week touring Ireland and

we’d hire a small car for the trek.

Now if you know nothing about Ireland – and to tell the absolute truth I didn’t – it’s best not to just look at a map and say to yourself it doesn’t look that far from town to town.

At first the idea was to stay in Dublin for a few nights then head north taking in the likes of Glasgow, the Giant’s Causeway and then slide down the coast coming across through Kilkenny and back to where we started.

All this was planned for just seven days.

Fortunately sanity prevailed and instead we decided to only concentrate on the southern parts of Ireland.

We didn’t want to just drive around looking out the car window.

After arriving at Dublin Airport we picked up our hire car and headed towards our accommodation in the city.

Mistake one was that we didn’t choose a car with a GPS instead deciding to wait a few days and get a SIM for the

phone to use as our guidance system.

That decision cost us a frustrating three hours as we circled Dublin’s maze of one way streets searching for our hotel.

I don’t like admitting it, but it was my decision not to go with the car GPS, a fact I was reminded of more than a few times during the trip.

We stayed at the Dawson Hotel and Spa in Dawson Street which we found a convenient location from which to walk around the city.

The room was small, but clean and the only issue was that we were on the second floor and there was no lift, just a strong doorman to carry your bags upstairs.

A TripAdvisor tip to take the free walking tour in Dublin proved a winner the next day.

A young university student with a wonderful knowledge of the city was our guide and for almost four hours he told us some fascinating stories about the history of the city.

To go on the tour all you need to do is to turn up at

Dublin Town Square before noon and join a group.

The guides make their money from tips and there were plenty who reached into their pockets at the end of the walk.

My mother taught me the famous Irish song In Dublin’s Fair City when I was just five years old and I have been bringing it out as part of my entertainment repertoire ever since.

Mind you, it’s a very small and limited repertoire.

So I was delighted to see our final stop on the walking tour was in front of the Molly Malone statue.

Of course as any Aussie knows you never let a chance go by, so I launched into the song and to my pleasant surprise had the entire street singing along with me.

I loved it and even the wife joined in for the chorus.

There are plenty of bars and restaurants in Dublin, ranging from Michelin Star credentialed to the cheap bistros at the many local

pubs.

We found Marco Pierre White’s Steakhouse and Grill just down the road from our hotel and enjoyed a special night out.

Unfortunately the budget didn’t allow us to return, but if you spoil yourself every night it doesn’t seem so special when you do.

Day one on the road took us across Ireland to the seaport of Doolin.

We booked in at a recently built B&B, Egan’s Wild Atlantic View.

The host, who happened to be the Ireland Fly Fishing Champion, was great, the room was first class and the breakfast made to perfection.

It’s a big recommendation from us.

We chose Doolin because from there it’s a short drive to one of Ireland’s premier tourist spots, the Cliffs of Moher.

It was a windy day on the cliffs, but worth the climb for a spectacular view.

From Doolin we wound our way through to Killarney were again we

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SENIORS \\MARCH, 2019

Aerial view of the scenic Cliffs of Moher in Ireland. This popular tourist attraction is situated in County Clare along the Wild Atlantic Way. Photo: miroslav_1 Long exposure of Temple bar in Dublin with people drinking and walking by during night in autumn.

Photo: Marc Dufresne

Doolin.

Dawson.

Muckross House.

the movies, but better

picked our accommodation well with a stay at Muckross Park Hotel.

It sits opposite the national park and in the morning we grabbed a free bike from the hotel and went for a pleasant slow two-hour cycle.

The only dampener on this stop was the pub food next to the hotel was a meal we should have missed.

Stay at the hotel by all means, but find a good restaurant in town to dine out at is our advice.

My wife had one wish for our Ireland tour, and that was to stay one night in a castle.

That’s why we booked our next stop at the Waterford Castle.

Unfortunately the castle has only a few rooms and we were shovelled off to a block of units on the estate.

The unit was good, but it wasn’t a castle.

As a keen punter I found a steeple chase meeting at Wexford to call in before we said goodbye to Ireland.

Fortunately the luck of the Irish prevailed and a

10/1 winner helped pay for all our petrol and a few pints of Guinness.

To sum it up, the few disappointments we had on our whistle stop self-drive tour were overshadowed by many highlights and if we had our time over again we’d do the same, except this time we’d find a real castle to stay in, ghosts and all.

IRELAND

APPROX COSTS: Self-drive car hire: $350, five days Dawson Hotel Dublin: $250 per night Rating: 7/10 Egan’s Wild Atlantic B&B, Doolin: $150 per night Rating: 9/10 Muckross Park Hotel, Killarney: $350 per night Rating: 8/10 Waterford Castle: $400 per night Rating: 7/10 BEST TIP: Take your time while driving around and go online early to book your accommodation and you will save hundreds by doing it.

MUST-SEE: Bunratty castle at dusk with reflection in the river in Ireland.

Photo: Mustang_79

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MARCH, 2019// SENIORS

TRAVEL BRIEFS

REAL DEALS: The Cruise and Maritime Voyages ship, Columbus.

LAST MINUTE ESCAPES

Cruise and Maritime Voyages is offering guests up to 75 per cent off a range of last-minute escapes departing this March and April.

The offer gives travellers the chance to experience Western Australia’s epic coastlines, the world-class local produce of South Australia, the wild splendour of Tasmania and iconic landmarks of New Zealand and the East Coast of Australia.

A little further afield, guests can experience the best of Asia on both short and long voyages, some departing from Sydney and Auckland. Nine last-minute escapes are on sale including two seven-night tours of Tasmania. Go to CMVAustralia.com or

phone 1300 307 934.

HIGH COUNTRY WALKS

Victoria’s High Country has launched a website – walkhighcountry.com.au – which showcases more than 100 walks around the spectacular region.

From short village strolls to multi-day mountain hikes for the more adventurous, Walk High Country is a one-stop place for visitors looking to explore the unique beauty of Victoria’s North East the slow way. Guide yourself or choose from a suite of new guided walk experiences around the region, including: At Mt Buller, Ness Hinneberg, the Hike Priestess of Skadi Adventures offers fully supported walking adventures for women, from half day to overnight hikes.

❚ Bright Adventure Company’s new three-hour guided adventure at Mount Buffalo, the Cathedral Explorer. ❚ Take a High Country Hiking Tour, guided, multi-day walk in and around Mt Stirling including Craig’s Hut, Eagle Peaks and Crosscut Saw. ❚ At Falls Creek, the new Trails, Tales and Tucker walk takes in historic High Plains huts and superb scenery on an easy guided walk and picnic, suitable for any age. ❚ A unique, fully guided and supported premium pack-horse walking holiday through the Victorian Alps with Parktrek and Bogong Horseback Adventures.

GET ENLIGHTEN(ED) IN CANBERRA

The nation’s capital will

be transformed in March for the annual Enlighten Festival. ❚ Canberra Balloon Spectacular, March 9-17 Canberra turns 106 this year. Join in the celebrations with a program bursting to the seams with live music and entertainment for all.

There’s something for everyone this Canberra Day. For more festival information, go to enlightencanberra.com.

EXPERIENCE SUNSHINE COAST OUTDOORS

❚ Paddle powered by sun Go solar-powered on your canoe tour. Eco River Rides are harnessing the sun to help you fuel your adventure. In an Australian first, the company is using solar-powered canoes to take visitors on an unforgettable journey through the Maroochy River Wetlands. For more details, go to eco riverrides.com.au. ❚ Pedal green EcoTekk Electric Bikes offers Sunshine Coast visitors a chance to explore the region without working up a sweat. With no shortage of tracks to choose from, it’s a great way to discover the Sunshine Coast. E-Bike comes to you, at your

resort, your hotel, your house or friend’s house.

For more details, go to ecotekk.com.au/ home/sunshine-coast.

NEW QUEENSLAND FOOD FESTIVAL

It’s new and it’s on August 8-11 on the Sunshine Coast, The Curated Plate.

The festival aims to feature chefs from Australia and the world.

Guests will get to immerse themselves in the flavours foraged from organic and sustainable practices and enjoy once-in-a-lifetime dining experiences.

The Curated Plate program will burst with exclusive culinary events that will span the region, bringing to life the unique local artisan culture.

Pre-sale tickets are available from March 12.

For more details, go to hecuratedplate.com.au/ sunshine-coast.

MONGOLIA BY MOTORBIKE

Save 10 per cent on a ride across one of the world’s most remote places – Mongolia, the world’s emptiest country.

Experience the vast expanse of Mongolia’s striking landscapes on the back of a classic Royal Enfield motorbike on some of the world’s most

open roads with this special offer from Extreme Bike Tours.

Appealing to the more than one million Australians who ride motorbikes, Extreme Bike Tours is offering a special 10 per cent discount on a Mongolian tour starting on August 2, 2019, with the discount available until April 15, 2019.

Extreme Bike Tours is one of the world’s leading motorcycle tour companies, offering tours in the Himalayas, Bhutan, Mongolia, Madagascar, India, Sri Lanka and Cuba.

For more, go to extremebiketour.com.

TAHITI WHALE SWIM CRUISES

New week-long whale swim cruises have been launched in Tahiti by Australian eco-experience company, Majestic Whales Encounters.

The unique cruises will see guests spend six nights aboard a brand new 16m catamaran as they sail the turquoise waters off the island of Moorea and swim with wild humpback whales.

The cruise departs on September 16 or 22, 2019.

Phone Majestic Whale Encounters on 0405 594 253 or go to majesticwhale encounters.com.au.

Get hooked on crafty cruising and forges friendships, and the number of avid crocheters is growing globally. Departing Sydney on October 27, the Cruise Express Crochet Cruise will travel aboard Celebrity Solstice.

The crochet group will be based in a private room with spectacular ocean vistas.

The cruise will take in Hobart, Milford Sound, Dunedin, Akaroa, Picton, Tauranga and the Bay of Islands, and end in Auckland.

In Auckland,

passengers will enjoy an exclusive tour of Fibrefest, an annual event dedicated to all things wool, yarn and fibre.

Led by three of Australia’s top crochet teachers – Emily Littlefair, Joy Clements and Kathy Hodgetts – the cruise includes skill-building workshops, a choice of three projects according to skill level, crochet-related fun trivia and one-on-one crochet assistance. The 14-deck Celebrity Solstice offers three pools, 11 dining

venues, nine bars and lounges, spectacular stage shows, a spacious gym and a ship-top deck covered in real grass.

The cruise cost is from $3990 a person, twin-share, including 12 nights aboard the Celebrity Solstice, one night’s accommodation in Auckland, an economy flight from Auckland to Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne, and a walking tour of Hobart.

For more, go to cruiseexpress.com.au.

Congratulations to our Winners

Congratulations to the winners of our December Cold Pursuit Screening giveaway.

Bev McMahon Graham Doust Joy Morton

Lauren Symes Vanessa Bradley

Stay tuned to the paper and our website for the latest Seniors News Giveaways Visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitions 6953237aa

CRAFTY CRUISING: Crochet is enjoying a revival as a simple, calming activity which can be enjoyed while cruising on board Celebrity Solstice.

CRAFTY crocheters can combine cruising and their passion, and hook into a great deal which includes $1500 worth of crochet kit including premium yarn, patterns, skill kits, books, tools and workshops.

The 12-night Crochet Cruise will weave its way to Tasmania and New Zealand in October.

French for “hooked needle’’ and dating back to the 1820s, crochet is enjoying a revival as a simple, calming activity that expresses creativity

SENIORS \\MARCH-APRIL, 2019

21

Community group guide

Community notes

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

VIEW CLUBS

Coffs City Inc. OUR next meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 27, at the Cavanbah Centre, Harbour Dr, Coffs Harbour, at 9.45am for 10am. At the conclusion of the meeting a thumbnail sketch will be presented by one of our members. Morning tea and the AGM will then follow. This is a friendly mixed gender club and visitors and new members are always welcome. For further information, phone Brian on (02) 5619 2484.

Grafton HERE’S an offer you can’t refuse. How would you like to take the opportunity to support children in need? Grafton VIEW Club is on the lookout for women whose new year’s resolution is to improve their social life and give back to the community. VIEW stands for voice, interests and the education of women.

It is one of Australia’s leading women’s volunteer organisations and supports the education of disadvantaged children through its charitable fundraising. Grafton VIEW Club is part of a network of more than 300 clubs around Australia. Joining

our VIEW Club is the perfect opportunity to meet regularly with other like-minded women, establish new friendships and help children in need.

At the February AGM meeting a new committee was established.

Elizabeth Birch, the NM03 Zone counsellor, announced the incoming committee and the new office bearers read out the club pledge. The zone counsellor then read the code of conduct to members.

The office bearers are: president Faye Stone, vice-president Betty Caldwell, secretary Helen E. Smith, assistant secretary Vorna Cooper, treasurer Helen Cashel, assistant treasurer Elaine Stephenson, delegate Helen Cashel, program officer Sandra Simpson, program officer 2 Suzanne Gibson, publicity officer Jeanette Calvi, lavender lady Merrille Trill, who will take over the position from Helen A. Smith after March 19. Badges were distributed by the zone counsellor, and a photo taken of the incoming committee. The raffle was won by Suzanne Gibson, and lucky door prize went to Barbara Franks, a new member. Following this,

INCOMING COMMITTEE: Helen Cashel, Jeanette Calvi, Betty Caldwell, Faye Stone, Elaine Stephenson, Vorna Cooper, Sandra Simpson and Suzanne Gibson from the Grafton VIEW club.

Betty Caldwell read some inspiring lines from the club thought book. All are welcome to come along to our friendly March meeting. The guest speakers, Francis Keane and his wife, Narelle, will spark up some adventure for you in sharing their experiences on the Kokoda Trail in New Guinea. So enjoy the satisfaction of making new friendships at a yummy luncheon, and sit back to listen and become part of a great adventure.

This interesting meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 26, at Grafton

Life in an online world OUR Community College is often asked if we provide courses on the use of technology and cyber safety and fortunately for the people asking the question, we run courses within the Tech Savvy Seniors program on a regular basis.

In the course of our business, I recently overheard our Information Technology Trainer say to some students: “If you can’t remember exactly when you finished school, for today, just make a guess.” He was teaching students about constructing resumes so the statement seemed perfectly reasonable.

Nonetheless, it struck me that in venturing into the online world, we might be asked many questions and it poses a risk if we are not sure why we are being asked these questions.

A question that is

Learn how to email or use internet banking at Coffs Coast Community College. Photo: monkeybusinessimages sometimes asked when using technology is “what is the name of your first pet?” That type of question is often used as a verification step when changing your passwords.

For those of us who aren’t used to turning on a computer, a tablet, iPad or iPhone, some of these questions can seem confusing or even confronting and being able to safely operate in the online world is a priority.

Starting something like

learning how to email or shop online can therefore be a bit daunting but likely less so if skills are gained in these areas. And protecting ourselves by completing a short course in cyber safety is an important first step.

For information, including upcoming Tech Savvy Seniors courses, contact our helpful staff at Coffs Coast Community College on 02 6652 5378 or email admin@coffs college.nsw.edu.au.

District Services Club, Mary St, Grafton, commencing at 10.30am.

Enter this into your diary and come along and enjoy the friendly atmosphere.

Phone Vorna for catering purposes on 02 6642 4719.

MACKSVILLE RAILWAY CENTENARY

JOIN us on Sunday, June 30, and Monday, July 1, at Macksville Railway Station. Plans are in full swing to celebrate 100 years of the sixth link from Kempsey to Macksville.

Mary Boulton Pioneer

Cottage and Museum is hosting a two-day history celebration and we are seeking anyone with information about former station masters or assistant SM, or railway workers from the early days, or any photographs or memorabilia at all to help in the town’s celebration. From 10am–2pm on Sunday, June 30. A book launch of 100 Years of Macksville Railway will be included.

Phone Leanne Welsh on 0407 682 179 or Geoff Minett on 02 6568 1265 or email macksville museum@gmail.com.

GRAFTON SENIOR CITIZENS

WE RECENTLY held an open day for Senior Citizens Week and a very successful bus trip to the Daniel O’Donnell stage show at Twin Towns.

Next bus trip is to The Farm, Byron Bay, on April 5, with seats still available.

More activities and trips will be organised after the March AGM, and will be put on sale progressively.

New members are always welcome.

Phone publicity officer Sandra on 02 6642 7720 for more information.

Sharing the community news IT IS the quiet centre of community life but now Coramba Community Hall is about to take centre stage.

One of the hall’s most beautiful (and it has a few) and unique features is the honour roll that sits just beside the main stage. However according to hall committee chairman Jefferson “Jeff” Otto, 100 years of history has left its mark on the honour roll which is now badly in need of a spruce up.

The NSW Government is coming to the rescue after the committee found someone to do the work.

Veterans Affairs Minister David Elliott announced earlier this month the hall had been awarded the $9595 grant from the Community War Memorials Fund.

The World War I honour roll, designed by a veteran, at the Coramba Community Hall was unveiled in 1919. A World

HAPPY DAYS: Nationals candidate for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh, Veterans Affairs Minister David Elliott and Member for Coffs Harbour Andrew Fraser with Coramba Community Hall committee members.

War II panel was unveiled on Remembrance Day 1949.

The grant will preserve the age and history of the honour roll by repairing damage and making safe the areas of the memorial that are a risk to the public.

Mr Otto said the honour rolls were an important part of the aesthetic of the hall and an important part of the town’s history.

He said many of those who had their names on the plaques still had relatives in the town.

Applications for the

latest round of the Community War Memorials Fund close on Anzac Day, Thursday, April 25.

“New grants of up to $10,000 are now open and I encourage all communities who believe their local memorial needs conservation or protection to apply,” Nationals candidate for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said.

For more, contact the office of the local member. Phone 0499 462 098 for hall hire information.

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MARCH-APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

Wellbeing

Part of cure is subsidy

Improved health comes at a price

Gail Forrer A NEW drug to combat incontinence has been labelled a “game changer”, but for some sufferers the price is too much to pay.

Approximately 6.3 million Australians experience bladder or bowel control problems. A report released in 2011 by Deloitte Access Economics revealed that in 2010, total health system expenditure on incontinence in the Australian population was estimated at $271 million or $57 per person with incontinence. This figure was projected to rise to $450 million by 2020.

But one 76-year-old Queensland woman believes she will not be included in those statistics after being prescribed the incontinence drug Betmiga. In an email to Seniors News, she wrote: “I have been battling incontinence for the past 10 years (as do so many of my friends).

I have been down the road of physio, surgery and as a last-ditch effort I saw another urologist who after tests prescribed Betmiga (25mg).

“It has made an enormous difference to my life, all but preventing the symptoms, but unfortunately the cost of each prescription is quite prohibitive. It started out this year at $48 per prescription but after August the cost leapt to $64.95. Who knows what the future cost will be.

CURES COSTS: In Australia, around 6.3 million Australians experience bladder or bowel control problems.

“I realise that the PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme) is always under strain, but with our ageing population and the government spending so much money on keeping we oldies in our own home (all good), surely instead of making people use padded pants or diapers, both expensive and they end up in landfill, to subsidise Betmiga is in the government’s interest as it truly works and as my urologist assured me has the fewest side-effects of comparable drugs.”

Spokesperson for the Urological Society of Australian and New Zealand Urologist Dr Caroline Dowling, has praised the efficacy of Betmiga (also known as Mirabegron).

“It’s a game changer,” Dr Dowling said.

FAST FACTS Increased funding for Continence Aids Payment Scheme The Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS) is an Australian Government scheme that provides a payment to assist eligible people who have permanent and severe incontinence to meet some of the cost of their continence products.

In July 2018, the Continence Aids Payment Scheme contribution amount was increased in line with the Consumer Price Index. The current payment is $596.60 for the financial year 2018-2019. Clients can choose one full payment in July, or two half payments in July and January each year. ❚ If you would like a CAPS application form, phone the National Continence Helpline on 1800 330 066. You can also request the CAPS application form from the Australian Government’s Bladder Bowel website. ❚ If you require assistance in completing the CAPS application, phone the National Continence Helpline on 1800 330 066. ❚ If you have changed your bank or address details, notify the CAPS Team on 1800 239 309. Only the person receiving the benefit, or their nominated representative, can call the CAPS Team to change/update details.

However, she warned there were several causes behind incontinence and it would not suit everyone.

“But it definitely works for some,” she said.

She advised the first step in finding an appropriate treatment

entailed acknowledging the condition to your GP. “Have the cause diagnosed and from there ascertain suitable treatments,” she said.

Betmiga is manufactured by the Astellas company.

In response to questions from Senior News, Astellas stated it has thoroughly investigated requesting PBS reimbursement.

However, the company found that: “After reviewing the

Photo: PeopleImages

body of clinical, epidemiological and economic data, Astellas was uncertain that the value offered by the unique mechanism of action and different tolerability profile of the Betmiga can be accurately captured and quantified”.

“Furthermore, one of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee’s key criteria for reimbursement is affordability in the absence of PBS subsidisation.

While Astellas acknowledge the difficulty some patients face in affording Betmiga as a private prescription, at its current price Astellas believes it is unlikely to meet this criterion.”

Astellas said it would continue to reassess this decision on a regular basis.

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WELLBEING

Surviving the journey One man uses his experience to warn about sun protection Tracey Johnstone WITH one foot on the throttle of his caravanning dreams and the other on ensuring he continues to survive from his long melanoma journey, Dennis Applebee is ready to hit the road.

The 69-year-old and his wife Pam have sold their seven-days-a-week dry cleaning business in Tasmania’s Devonport and retired.

The first caravan trip is for four weeks as they watch how Dennis’s health handles the experience.

There’s been no mention of remission. But it can come back at any time. Every time a little bump pops up, Dennis heads straight to the doctor.

“Cover up,” he states emphatically. “Slip, slop, slap; cover up,” he declares again.

“I will be covered up and will be looking for shade.

“My message is to enjoy the sun, but don’t go out and bake yourselves.”

Pam adds that with the knowledge we have about melanoma, young people should always cover up.

“Have a look at the people who have this cancer; most of them die,” she said.

“Dennis is very lucky he has survived.”

Just over 20 years ago Dennis was a keen runner, fitting in a 10km run each day. He was a naturally an outdoors person.

“You think back to 1986,” Dennis said.

“There was no such thing as cover yourself and things like that, and I worked outside all my life.

“Then a mole popped up on the left-hand side of my forehead, near the temple, and I thought what the hell is this? I wasn’t feeling a bit bright.

“My boss brought me home from Shipton where I was working for the water board.”

Dennis went straight to his doctor, and “that’s where it all started”, Dennis recounts.

A surgeon removed the mole, but testing revealed it was a melanoma.

“He said to us; get your life in order, you have only

MELANOMA MARCH: Tasmanian Dennis Applebee and his wife Pam, ready to head off on long awaited retirement trip after Dennis’ difficult melanoma experience. six months to live,” Dennis said.

During that time he really struggled with a lack of knowledge around melanoma.

Only six months later Dennis noticed a lump near his left ear, right near his lymph glands. The melanoma was back. He had to undergo surgery to

remove the affected lymph glands as well as a shoulder direction.

Following this Dennis had to undergo an intensive 12 months of chemotherapy to treat the melanoma.

“They threw everything at me,” he said.

Dennis and Pam have two sons and 10 grandchildren, and he just wants to enjoy life more and with them.

Dennis says they have heard their grandfather’s message about taking care of their skin.

The couple plan to be back from caravanning in time for Melanoma March.

He will again throw his support behind the Devonport Lions Club march and fundraiser.

“I have a big scar down the side of my neck,” Dennis said.

“A lot of people see it and ask what happened there. That’s when I start telling them.

“I often start off by saying, ‘that’s where they cut off me bad head’ as Tasmanians have two heads,” he jokes.

“It really starts the conversation.”

For more information, go to the website melanomamarch.org.au.

23

Australia’s melanoma research AUSTRALIA has regained the unenviable title of having the world’s highest rates of invasive melanoma.

The study conducted by QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute and published this month in The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, has found that invasive melanoma rates in Australians have plateaued, while rates in New Zealand have started to fall.

The most recently available data show that in 2014/2015 about 50 in every 100,000 Australians were diagnosed with invasive melanoma, compared to about 47 out of every 100,000 New Zealanders.

QIMR Berghofer Senior Scientist Professor David Whiteman said the Australian figures were surprising because the 2016 analyses had suggested that melanoma incidence would decline in both countries.

Use sunscreen in your morning routine

DO IT DAILY: Everyone, every morning, should be applying sunscreen before heading out the door.

SLAP on the sunscreen as part of your daily routine, experts are telling us.

“We are exposed to sunlight in so many ways and not all of it is due to conscious sunbaking. In Australia, we get a lot of incidental sun exposure from everyday activities such as walking to the bus stop or train station, or hanging out washing,” QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute’s Associate Professor

Rachel Neale says.

Critically, she reminds us that the DNA damage that causes skin cancer and melanoma accumulates with repeated small doses of sunlight.

The recommendation is that we apply sunscreen every morning before we head out the door, when the maximum UV level is forecast to be three or higher.

“For much of Australia,

that means people should apply sunscreen all year round, but in areas like Tasmania and Victoria there are a few months over winter when sunscreen is not required,” Prof Neale added.

The easiest way to do this? Brush your teeth, brush your hair, apply the sunscreen; every day.

And, if you are staying outdoors for any length of time, wear a hat,

protective clothing, sunglasses and reapply the sunscreen every two hours.

For those seniors concerned about what affect sunscreen could have on them, Terry Slevin from the Public Health Association of Australia says: “There is consistent and compelling evidence that sunscreens are safe, and reactions occur in a very low proportion of the population”.

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24

WELLBEING

MARCH-APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

Beware of sight stealer Screening can detect glaucoma Tracey Johnstone GLAUCOMA is an eye condition that can quietly build up over time without us knowing it’s happening until we realise we are losing our sight.

Detect it early and it can be managed.

Ignore the problem and your vision will slowly, irreversibly disappear.

By the time you reach 60 you should already be visiting your optometrist for an annual screening so your eye health can be monitored.

The optometrist will check your eye pressure and look at the optic nerve at the back of your eye for any indication of the onset of glaucoma.

Melbourne-based ophthalmologist Dr Simon Skalicky suggests there are two other tests that might help detect glaucoma – a visual field test to check out your peripheral vision, and an OCT scan which reviews the optic nerve and can detect glaucoma earlier than changes detected in your peripheral vision.

Glaucoma is where an eye’s optic nerve is damaged.

Inside our eyes is fluid, which is constantly produced and drained.

When that fluid is blocked from draining the pressure inside the eye rises and the eye becomes harder.

“It’s a bit like a soccer ball where you pump too much air into it; it gets firmer,” Dr Skalicky explains.

“That firmness damages the nerve at the back of the eye which can

EYE HEALTH: Opthamologist Dr Simon Skalicky suggests regular testing as a way to detect glaucoma early. lead to a progressive loss of vision.”

The gradually increasing pressure isn’t noticeable and neither is the loss of vision.

But once it starts, it impacts your peripheral vision and then your central vision.

This is when we notice something very wrong is happening with our vision.

Optic nerve damage from glaucoma isn’t reversible, but the heightened eye pressure that causes this condition can be lowered.

“We can stop it from getting worse,” Dr Skalicky said.

RISK FACTORS People at higher risk of glaucoma: ❚ Have a family history of glaucoma ❚ Have high eye pressure ❚ Are aged over 50 ❚ Are of African or Asian descent ❚ Have diabetes ❚ Have myopia (near-sighted) ❚ Have been on a prolonged course of cortisone (steroid) medication ❚ Experience migraines ❚ Have had an eye operation or eye injury ❚ Have a history of high or low blood pressure Daily drops are the traditional treatment option.

Another newer option is laser treatment, which is a non-invasive, low risk

option offered by ophthalmologists.

“If those simple measures aren’t enough, we can consider surgical procedures to drain the

fluid from the eye,” Dr Skalicky said.

The newest development in surgical options available through ophthalmologists are the iStent (Glaukos) and XEN gel implant (Allergan).

“The iStent can be put in at the time of cataract surgery and it lowers the eye pressure somewhat,” Dr Skalicky said.

The iStent is the smallest device that can be put into the body.

“It’s like a little stud with a hollow bore in the middle.

“It connects fluid from one part of the eye to the other part of the eye,” Dr

Photo: Contributed

Skalicky explains.

“There are also larger devices called XEN, which create a drain from inside the eye to outside the eye.

“These are permanent stents that significantly help with eye pressure control.”

The XEN stent is made of collagen and looks “like a tiny, tiny tube of spaghetti” he added.

“It connects from inside the eye to outside the eye, draining to under the lining of the eye,” Dr Skalicky added.

For more information on glaucoma log on to glaucoma.org.au.

IT’S AMAZING WHAT WE CAN SEE THROUGH YOUR EYES Our bulk billed eye test includes free OCT 3D Optical Imaging so we can detect a range of health conditions.

Coffs Harbour City Centre Square (Shop 80), Harbour Drive, 6651 4300 Park Beach Plaza (Next to Big W) 6651 8883 Bulk billed eye tests available when listed on a valid Medicare card without Optometry restrictions. OCT 3D Optical Imaging included with all standard eye tests.

Book an eye test online

SENIORS \\MARCH-APRIL, 2019

WELLBEING

25

Tips to simplify your life INSTEAD of sending your unwanted household items to the tip as you try to de-clutter your home after the Christmas holidays, the alternative could be re-homing them.

The latest rage for dealing with de-cluttering is KonMari.

Sustainability Victoria acting CEO Stephanie Ziersch said the rush of affection for this method was a positive thing but highlighted the risk of items being discarded instead of consciously re-homed.

The six KonMari steps are – commit yourself to tidying up, imagine your ideal lifestyle, finish discarding first, tidy by category, not by location, follow the right order (clothes, books, paper, miscellaneous items, sentimental items) and ask yourself, does it spark joy?

Ms Ziersch suggests adding in a seventh step – reflect on waste and take action to reduce, reuse, recycle and respect.

“While we’re encouraged to hear households en masse are busy clearing out the

clutter, the question remains, where are we sending all those bags of joyless garments and items once we’re done with them?” she said.

“All that clutter doesn’t just disappear once you’ve given it a kiss and thanked it for its service.”

SV SUGGESTS THESE SEVEN TIPS WHEN EMBARKING ON THE KONMARI JOURNEY: ■ 1. Consider selling unloved items on sites like eBay, Gumtree or Facebook ■ 2. Contact your local charity group to see if members are willing to pick up your unwanted furniture ■ 3. Gift your once-loved items to a friend or family member ■ 4. Take your old TVs and computers to drop-off points where they are recycled as part of the National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme ■ 5. Drop your mobile phones and tablets off for recycling at MobileMuster collection points at phone shops and post offices

CLEANING UP: Clutter doesn’t just disappear once you’ve given it a kiss and thanked it for its service.

Photo: marekuliasz

■ 6. Offer your good quality clothes to charities who will resell them for fundraising purposes, or potentially give them to disadvantaged people ■ 7. Contact your local

council to find out how your items can be recycled locally “While the concept of tidying your home, and letting go of objects that serve no purpose is

important, waste avoidance is just as pressing,” Ms Ziersch said.

“For example, Australians are the world’s second largest

consumers of textiles, buying on average 27kg of new clothing and other textiles each year of which around $500 million worth of clothing is sent to landfill.”

Super tips to guarantee fine spinal health by leading surgeon SUFFERING from back pain is a burden that affects all aspects of one’s health.

As the body is controlled by the central nervous system, the spine must be able to support it in order for people to function at their full potential.

The spine should be recognised as a priority when it comes to maintaining good health.

Back pain is an increasingly common problem many people face. Leading spinal surgeon Dr Michael Wong

shares five ways to improve spinal health.

1. REDUCE SITTING TIME TO 45 MINS “Whether you partake in exercise or not, sitting for prolonged periods of time causes the brain to recognise that position as one to hold, allowing your muscles to shorten and locking your posture. It’s even been claimed that ‘sitting is the new smoking’, with long bouts of uninterrupted sitting increasing our risk of death. It’s important to take a break from the

sitting position at least every hour if your job or lifestyle keeps you at a desk.”

decrease the stress to the back and neck.”

2. CORRECT YOUR POSTURE

“In terms of sleeping, the most comfortable positions usually aren’t beneficial for spinal health. Sleeping on your stomach offers no support to the back and the pull of gravity causes the spine to bow. The most supportive position for your alignment is sleeping on your back. For more support, sleep on your side with a pillow between your legs. Invest

“Sitting for long periods of time causes the back to tense up and lock, which is even worse when sitting with bad posture. A good way of correcting this is to get into the habit of noticing and fixing your posture to sit up with a straightened back. Mobile phones cause posture issues. When in use, keep the device at eye level to

3. SLEEP ON YOUR BACK

‘Kick start your day with Damo’ FM 103’s Breakfast Show, Monday to Friday 6 am to 9 am 6945592ab

in a supportive mattress and pillow that promotes proper alignment of the neck.”

have specific, targeted exercise to strengthen core muscles.

4. STRETCH YOUR MUSCLES

“Be conscious of any excess fat, especially on the central abdomen which puts extra weight on the lumbar spine. When you have a healthy diet, it is more likely you will have more energy to do exercise regularly.

Nutrients in anti-flammatory food have properties that can help relieve pain and assist in reducing osteoarthritis of joints.”

“It is important to stay flexible through stretching to avoid back problems or potential injuries. The core muscles, particularly the lower back and abdominal muscles need to be strong and supple to support the spine and take pressure off the lower back. Core muscles are rarely used in everyday activities, so

5. HEALTHY DIET

26

MARCH-APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

Dementia care

Living

How to handle THAT diagnosis with dignity and love Alison Houston A DEMENTIA diagnosis is something no one wants, but it does allow that person, their family and carers to know what they are dealing with and what help is available.

Dementia Australia community engagement volunteer Elisabeth Shepherd is speaking from experience when she says there are more services and information available today than ever.

“It’s a case of saying ‘this is part of my life now; how can we make this work?’” Elisabeth said.

Her mum was diagnosed with dementia aged 73.

Elisabeth described coming home from overseas to find her mum completely different from the woman she had known, and her dad having picked up most of the shopping, cooking and other household responsibilities.

When her mum did go to the supermarket, she quickly became overcome

and anxious due to the noise, lights and sheer number of products.

Elisabeth realised it had always been her dad who had written to her overseas, with just a quick note from her mum, or a piece of art enclosed – there had been no suggestion of an issue.

Despite a good family GP, her parents were reluctant to talk about her mum’s memory loss and increasing anxiety, believing as many do, “there’s nothing you can do about it, so what’s the point?”

She admits her mum struggled when eventually referred to the memory clinic for testing, but when the diagnosis came and they were able to get services in to help, she said it made life easier for both her parents.

“Once we got a few services involved, it made dad realise just how much he had been doing and how hard it had been,” she said.

“It also gave them both a lot of help with how to make things work

day-to-day, and when mum started going to a day centre each week, she really enjoyed it, and dad realised how important it was for him to have a break too.”

Both have since passed away.

Elisabeth, with a social work background, said she had noticed in her volunteer work how openly people today talked about dementia, their diagnosis and the help they needed.

“Every single person is affected differently, but the benefit of the Dementia Australia carers’ workshops and support groups is you get really good information put forward very clearly and concisely and you are with people who are going through the same thing as you,” she said.

“People come out feeling empowered, knowing they are not Robinson Crusoe, and having gained ideas of how other people have dealt with situations similar to their own.”

Elisabeth does not

On February 19th our SCCA community celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the opening our residential facility Mater Christi.

Looking back, we can appreciate the foresight and dedication of those who worked so hard to create and manifest the vision and mission so well expressed by our motto “We Care.” Looking ahead, our organisation is inspired to innovate and grow, to respond to challenges with willing minds and open hearts, building on that original vision to care for the elderly and expanding it to encompass the wider community.

Sawtell Catholic Care of the Aged From the big picture to the smallest details,“we care”

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

6950226aa

We welcome Michael, and look forward to the next 20 years of “We Care”!

MEANINGFUL: Dementia Australia community engagement volunteer Elisabeth Shepherd with a wedding photo of her mum and dad, for whom she was a carer for 15 years, and one of her mum’s pieces of art. on May 8 and in Dalby on May 20.

To book, or find a course near you, phone Dementia

Australia on 1800 100 500, email qld.services@dementia. org.au or go to dementia.org.au.

Must-know facts of genetics and dementia

Hello from SCCA …

The future of SCCA includes our new CEO Michael Darragh. Michael’s career spans over 30 years in health and aged care, with diverse senior level experience including the hospital sector with NSW Health, and aged care with residential and community care, rehabilitation, dementia care, retirement living and day centres.

Michael has provided leadership to several leading aged organisations, and holds qualifications in general and geriatric nursing. He holds a Bachelor of Health Science (Management), a Master of Business Leadership, and is currently undertaking PhD studies part-time on aspects of leadership for the aged care sector.

underestimate how daunting it is to watch a loved one change before your eyes.

Her father struggled with the loss of his life partner, who was unable to speak long before she died.

“But he always said that after being married for 40 years, he knew exactly what she wanted or needed without her saying,” Elisabeth laughed.

She said that inside knowledge of what their loved one likes, what makes them laugh is the secret for family and carers successfully making life happy.

Topics at the free Dementia Australia Family Carer Course include: effective communication, the nature and impact of dementia, activities for living and pleasure, understanding and responding to behaviours and simple day-to-day strategies.

Courses run regionally, 9.30am-2.30pm in Toowoomba on March 26 and May 29, in Warwick

PEOPLE affected by dementia are often concerned about whether the condition can be passed along in families.

Dementia is the term used to describe the symptoms of a large group of illnesses which cause a progressive decline in a person’s functioning.

It is a broad term to describe a loss of memory, intellect, rationality, social skills and what would be considered normal emotional reactions.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 50-70 per cent of all cases of dementia.

It occurs relatively frequently in older people, regardless of family history.

For females aged 65 to 69 years, dementia affects one in 80 compared to one in 60 for males. For both males and females aged 85 and over, the rate is approximately one in four.

Understanding genes The genetic material that we each inherit from our parents is packaged into structures called

chromosomes.

Each chromosome contains thousands of genes like beads on a thread.

Genes contain information – they are the blueprints for making a person.

Genes which may influence Alzheimer’s disease Having a close relative with the Alzheimer’s disease is not evidence of a genetic link.

People who are influenced by risk factor genes are only at a slightly increased risk in developing the disease than the average population.

Genetic causes of dementia One rare form of Alzheimer’s disease is passed from generation to generation.

This is called Familial Alzheimer’s disease (FAD).

If a parent has a mutated gene that causes FAD, each child has a 50 per cent chance of inheriting it.

If Familial Alzheimer’s disease (FAD) is suspected Genetic testing can identify specific changes

in a person’s genes.

This test can tell if a person has FAD and if a child has inherited the changed gene from a parent and will develop the disease in the future.

It cannot determine when the symptoms will begin.

Other rare forms of inherited dementia Some other rare forms of dementia can also be inherited.

These include Huntington’s disease and some forms of Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration, where behaviour changes before any change in memory. All these inherited conditions are very uncommon.

Remember If you are concerned about the risk of inheriting Alzheimer’s disease, Dementia Australia provides professional staff for counselling and support.

Phone the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 to arrange an appointment with a counsellor.

Source: dementia. org.au/information/ genetics-of-dementia

SENIORS \\MARCH-APRIL, 2019

LIVING

27

Bus trip full of laughter Residents look forward to excursions BRAND INSIGHTS EXCURSIONS with friends and staff are an important connection to our local communities for the residents of Grafton Aged Care Home.

Lifestyle officer Korrine teamed up recently with Assistant in Nursing and Men’s Club Coordinator Ray to take a very excited group of residents on a scenic road trip that ended with a fabulous lunch.

The tour started with a drive around Coutts Crossing, heading past the Shannon Creek Dam. The residents loved the way the staff transformed into professional tour guides and explained the features of the outside views.

The whole bus was sore from laughing by the time they arrived at their lunch destination.

Lunch was served at The Five Mile Hotel in

HAPPY RESIDENTS: Grafton Aged Care Home’s lifestyle officer Korrine teamed up with assistant in nursing and men’s club co-ordinator Ray to take a very excited group of residents on a scenic road trip that ended with a fabulous lunch and many smiles.

South Grafton Shopping Centre, which has recently completed some infrastructure works that made it easy for our group to navigate.

The publican gave us

the royal treatment and we feasted like kings and queens while resident Elsa Mitchell reminisced about when she worked at the pub in her younger days.

Elsa commented: “Things have really changed!”

On the final leg of the smile outing, the bus took us past the construction of the new Grafton Bridge.

The residents were fascinated by resident Scotty’s knowledge of bridge construction.

It was a highlight as he explained the different sections of the bridge

Be Treated Like Family Hall & Prior Residential Aged Care

There is no g eater privilege than the t st of care. Come and ex erience compassionate care in our loving and family cent ed home.

We welcome you to call us anytime to find out more about our services.

Grafton Residential Aged Care

Ph: 02 6642 3255 12 Bent Street South Grafton

hallprior.com.au

engineering and how it all fits together.

For more information, phone 02 6642 3255 or go to hallprior.com.au.

28

MARCH-APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

Money

April Kennedy IN 2018, Stephanie and Ryan Stevens were delighted to receive the news they were going to become parents for the first time.

Shortly after, in a shocking twist of fate, Ryan lost his life in a tragic ATV bike accident.

Unfortunately, Ryan died before having the chance to prepare his will, leaving Stephanie, who was only three months pregnant, to fight a five-month-long battle with their mortgagee Bankwest.

The mortgage for the couple’s four bedroom home was in Ryan’s name solely.

With no valid will, Stephanie was frozen out by the bank because she did not have legal authority to deal with his affairs.

The mortgage increased significantly accruing interest and administration fees.

Stephanie was unable to pay the monthly

Widowed single mum left homeless

repayments on her own.

She had to wait for Ryan’s life insurance and superannuation to be finalised to pay the mortgage.

Unfortunately, Ryan’s entitlements fell short by $30,000 to pay the loan.

Stephanie’s parents offered to be guarantors and make up the shortfall but BankWest rejected the offer.

The family home was repossessed and sold at a loss of $70,000.

Stephanie was left homeless.

In recent media reports, BankWest acknowledged that the level of support Stephanie experienced “fell short of her expectations during the distressing time”.

The bank acted cruelly, but within its legal rights.

Without a will, when there is no person officially recognised as having the proper authority to make decisions on behalf of the estate, an application to

ADVICE: April Kennedy. the Court for ‘Letters of Administration’ is required to deal with authorities such as banks.

The process of applying for Letters of Administration can take several months, or even years, if there is a blended or hostile family dynamics, or missing family members.

Photo: Murray Waite

Despite being married, it also took five months for Stephanie to be officially recognised as the beneficiary of the estate.

This is because without a valid will, Ryan died “intestate”.

Like more than half of all Australians, with no valid will, the task of

dealing with his estate fell to the laws of intestacy.

Intestacy laws in each state and territory are comprehensive and vary significantly.

These laws identify who has the proper authority to make decisions on behalf of the estate, as well as who will inherit the assets.

Generally, the administrator and beneficiaries of an intestate estate will usually be the ‘next of kin’.

In New South Wales, the whole of his or her estate will pass to the surviving spouse.

If there is no spouse then the next in line to inherit will be children of the deceased.

In Queensland, the surviving spouse is entitled to the first $150,000, the household chattels and an equal share of the residuary estate.

The deceased’s children are entitled to the

remaining share of the estate in equal parts.

If there is no family then the estate could potentially be left to the Government.

The most common reasons we hear for not having a will are “I don’t want to tempt fate”, “I’m too young to have a will”, “I don’t own anything, I only have debt, so what’s the point” and “I’ve heard that making a will is expensive”.

But as we can see, the cost of preparing a will is next to nothing when compared to the turmoil and cost to your loved ones by not having one.

April Kennedy is a Wills and Estates solicitor at Attwood Marshall Lawyers. Established 1946, the firm has offices at Robina Town Centre, Kingscliff, NSW, and The Strand Coolangatta.

For a free estate planning review phone 1800 621 071 today.

Share the Good News If you’ve got big news, a heart-warming story or community event coming up, spread the word and share it online with Seniors!

Opening Doors to the Seniors Lifestyle

Visit seniorsnews.com.au today!

SENIORS \\MARCH-APRIL, 2019 narrations and will be held at the Coffs Harbour Jetty Theatre from 7–11pm on March 26. Each of the festival’s films conveys a deep respect and appreciation for the world’s oceans and the creatures that call them home. This carefully curated selection of short films document the beauty and power of the ocean, and celebrate the divers, surfers, swimmers and oceanographers who live for the sea’s salt spray; who chase the crests of waves; and who marvel at the mysteries of the big blue.

Tania Phillips

BANJO

IT’S part Banjo Patterson, part contemporary dance, with a little Coldplay thrown in – it’s Banjo on March 24 at Coffs Harbour Jetty Theatre from 3–7.30pm.

An exhilarating ride of contemporary dance, the music of Coldplay and the spoken word of A.B ‘Banjo’ Paterson, Banjo brilliantly intertwines the life of Banjo Paterson through arrangements of Coldplay’s greatest hits. It is performed live by some of Australia’s leading performance talent. The cast includes Steph Maddren, Mat Brooker, Darren McIntyre, Michael O’Mullane and Tim Maddren. For further information phone 02 6648 4930.

IPADS AND BISCUITS

DARREN COGGAN – LIKE A RHINESTONE COWBOY

WOOLGOOLGA Library will host an iPads and Biscuits morning from 10am to noon on March 26. Make a booking via the Coffs Council site and come along to one or all of the library’s series of free group learning sessions, iPads and Biscuits. Join up with other iPad users to discover together anything and everything to do with e-books, e-audiobooks and e-magazines.

Participants can bring along their own devices or borrow one and we will work through finding and discovering e-books, e-audiobooks and e-magazines.

OCEAN FILM FESTIVAL WORLD TOUR

THE country music star (last seen in his Cat Stevens show) is coming back to the Jetty Theatre in Coffs with his tribute to Glen Campbell on March 30. Multi award-winning performer, Darren Coggan, returns to his country roots Like A Rhinestone Cowboy, delivering the vocal authenticity and guitar prowess of the great Glen Campbell. In a personal reflection, Darren respectfully honours the indelible voice behind the golden hits of the ’60s and ’70s including Gentle On My Mind, Wichita Lineman, By The Time I Get To Phoenix, Try A Little Kindness, Galveston, Rhinestone Cowboy and many more. Phone 02 6648 4930.

PLUNGE ART AND CULTURE FESTIVAL

THE plunge Art and Culture Festival is a month-long program of events right across the Clarence Valley. From exhibitions, local art and craft, workshops, live music, theatre, film and shows there is something for everyone. It starts on March 29 and runs right through April at venues across the valley. Drop into a local gallery or book into a workshop to learn a

new skill – from acapella singing to shibori fabric dyeing or coptic book binding there’s plenty to inspire you. Their favourite venues showcase visiting and local musicians for plenty of fun and entertainment. Go to clarence.nsw.gov.au.

What's on

GATE TO PLATE

GATE to Plate Regional Masters Expo is a product showcase and social gathering comprising educational master classes, cookery showcases and a Roman banquet-style evening feast on March 30 at 24 Treelands Drive, Yamba.

Experience exquisite regional produce, made with passion, presented in person by the makers.

Sample artisan food and beverages created in the Northern Rivers region, be inspired by cooking demonstrations and learn how these quality products are made by joining a master class presented by the makers themselves. Go to clarence.nsw.gov.au.

RHINESTONE COWBOY: Darren Coggan stars as Glen Campbell.

Photo: Contributed

MACLEAN HIGHLAND GATHERING

GRAB your kilt and get to Maclean, the ‘Scottish Town in Australia’. Walk among the clans that invade the town for the Highland Gathering every Easter from around the country, April 19–21.

Piping competitions take place non-stop at different venues, as well as street concerts with dancers, pipers and singers. A parade along the main street of all participating bands takes place on Easter Saturday (at 8.30am sharp) and is followed by traditional Scottish games and dancing – tossing the caber and hammer throwing, food stalls and Scottish products await the bands and visitors at the showgrounds before a Grand Scottish Concert at the Civic Hall. Go to macleanhighland gathering.com.au.

6942033am

INSPIRING and thought-provoking, the Ocean Film Festival World Tour is filled with moving footage, touching interviews and insightful

29

Live events staged at 1000 seat historic heritage theatre with wonderfuL acoustics, air conditioning, comfortabLe seating and superb Line of sight.

Home

toni chiLd’s: retrospective

menopause the musicaL

Lee kernaghan

thursday 28th march 2019 “Short Laughs Comedy”

wednesday 17th apriL 2019

friday 26th apriL 2019

sunday 31st march 2019

Tickets on Sale Now.

Tickets on Sale Now.

thursday 30th may 2019 Tickets on Sale Now.

fLickerfest

Ladies night

cash Live

sunday 2nd June 2019

friday 14th June 2019

Tickets on Sale Now.

Tickets on Sale Now.

the robertson brothers

of the

Big Live Shows

“Best of Australian shorts”

Tickets on Sale Now.

saturday 20th JuLy 2019 Tickets on Sale Now.

30

CLASSIES/REVIEWS

MARCH-APRIL, 2019// SENIORS

The dangerous desire for fame

Call or place an ad online 13 11 13 or buysearchsell.com.au

Motoring Cars

Trades & Services

Fraud is the real deal If someone is requesting money to be transferred to an address or account prior to receiving the goods it may be fraudulent.

Don’t be a wally, exercise caution before you respond to a request. Always verify the authenticity of persons requesting your credit card or bank details prior to making any transfers. For more info from the experts visit buysearchsell.com.au/staysafe

Trades & Services

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Stamp collecting got you licked?

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THE handsome, intelligent and outwardly suave, aspiring novelist Maurice Swift wants fame and will pursue it at any cost.

He chases every possible opportunity to take what he can and from whoever he can – he doesn’t discriminate – all for the one goal of getting published not once, but many, many times.

If there is a story, and even if it’s not his, he will try to make it his own.

The setting is a hotel in the old West Berlin.

Young Swift unexpectedly becomes acquainted with the award-winning author Erich Ackerman. Both want something from each other, but not the same.

Swift sees opportunity, Ackerman sees a chance to share his devastatingly disturbing past in the hope of gaining connection. Swift moves forward while Ackerman pays the price of his lust.

Once Swift has made his name he goes looking for new ideas; much in the same way as he has started. Mentors, friends and family fall by the wayside in Swift’s pursuit of fame. We meet some interesting people during Swift’s journey. A sister called Rebecca is extraordinary. A strangely familiar Theo is unsettling.

GOOD READ: John Boyne’s dark novel of literary ambition, Ladder to the Sky. Ladder to the Sky is quickly captivating. It’s a dark tale that may be confronting for some senior readers, but once you take the journey with its author John Boyne, it’s becomes easier to see how the start has so much importance in the costly end. There are light moments to balance the

dark, and even an ending that leaves you looking up rather than down. Is the book about an evil tale or a clever writer? Perhaps if you are an aspiring author you might find yourself sitting back and rethinking your ambition once you have read this tale.

Published by Penguin.

RRP $32.99.

Look back at the good ol’ days JOIN author Alex Nicol as he takes you back to the old days in the bush, when booking into a country pub was likely to turn into an adventure, and when radio was the glue that held far flung communities together.

In his new book Old Days, Old Ways, the former ABC Radio presenter brings back to life the voices and stories of regional Australia before television and the internet.

When it comes to a bush yarn, it’s about the way you tell it.

As the voice of rural Australia for over two decades on ABC Radio, Nicol can tell a yarn with a punchline that will keep you grinning for the rest of the day.

His book is full of colourful characters and making do with what’s at hand, these stories are classically Australian.

There are the wartime mates who helped each other build farms on their soldier settler blocks, and

BUSH YARN: Alex Nicol’s newly released book Old Days, Old Ways. the Adelady keeping the farm running after her husband died. There is the young woman who ran down water buffalo in the Northern Territory, and Possum, the legendary bush hermit who lived off the land on his own for 60 years, quietly doing jobs for farmers without being asked.

There is the neighbour caught ‘fishing’ in the chookyard with a long line and a small hook baited with bread, and the little girl who swallowed a sapphire she found on the side of the road.

Published by Allen & Unwin, Old Days, Old Ways is available in bookshops.

RRP $29.99.

SENIORS \\MARCH-APRIL, 2019 1

2

3

4

5

Across 1 What is Herman Melville’s best-known work? (4,4) 7 The 20km Simplon Tunnel connects Switzerland with where? (5) 8 Which best-seller by Jung Chang has sold over 10 million since 1992? (4,5) 9 What from whales was used for lamps and candles? (3) 10 What word can follow light, new and tax? (4) 11 What describes food that fulfils the requirements of Jewish dietary law? (6) 13 Who (Dorothy L ___) created the character Lord Peter Wimsey? (6) 14 What is an extravagant trip taken by an official at public expense? (6) 17 In which city did William Caxton print the first book in English? (5) 18 What creature is an oriole? (4) 20 What is frozen water? (3) 22 In a story, who did Geppetto create? (9) 23 Which magazine did Mohamed Fayed take over in 1996? (5) 24 What was the cheapest section of a passenger ship?

(8)

6

7 8 9 10

11 12

13

14

15

16 17

18

20

19

21 22

23 24

SUDOKU

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

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

2

3

4

8

5

6

7

9

31

Down 1 Which song begins “And now, the end is near...”? (2,3) 2 What was the name of the upstairs family in TV’s Upstairs, Downstairs? (7) 3 What is a layer of cartilage separating adjacent vertebrae in the spine called? (4) 4 Which old man ferried the souls of the dead across the Rivers Styx and Acheron to Hades? (6) 5 Which army officer ranks above captain and below lieutenant colonel? (5) 6 What athlete is part of a peloton? (7) 7 What is a narrow strip of land connecting two larger land areas? (8) 12 Which British car had models Spitfire and Stag? (7) 13 What small sea creatures might be in a Cajun jambalaya? (7) 15 Which Hindu deity is usually depicted as a young cowherd boy playing a flute? (7) 16 In cheese-making, what curdles the milk? (6) 17 What is tofu made from? (5) 19 What bee does not work, but can fertilise the queen?

(5) 21 Which fictional company features in Looney Tunes cartoons? (4)

16/3

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.

C A

11 12

16

A

15 17 20

19

QUICK CROSSWORD Across: 1. State of mind 8. Earnest 9. Smile 10. Tear 11. Lunatic 12. Die 13. Oboe 15. Turn 17. Sly 19. Fragile 20. Aqua 23. Ashen 24. In a word 25.

Guesstimate.

Down: 1. Sleuth 2. Aorta 3. Ever 4. Futile 5. Insanity 6. Drifter 7. Coerce 12.

Defiance 14. Bear hug 16. Affair 17. Series 18. Waddle 21. Quota 22. Taxi.

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 25 Very Good 32 Excellent 40

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

Solution opposite

BLACKOUT

ALPHAGRAMS: IDEAL, JOINTS, KNEADED, LAUGHTER, MEDICATED.

DOUBLE CROSS

SUDOKU

5x5 P R E S S

R A

GK CROSSWORD Across: 1 Moby Dick. 7 Italy. 8 Wild Swans. 9 Oil. 10 Year. 11 Kosher. 13 Sayers. 14 Junket. 17 Bruges. 18 Bird. 20 Ice. 22 Pinocchio. 23 Punch. 24 Steerage.

Down: 1 “My Way”. 2 Bellamy. 3 Disc. 4 Charon. 5 Major. 6 Cyclist. 7 Isthmus. 12 Triumph. 13 Shrimps. 15 Krishna. 16 Rennet. 17 Beans. 19 Drone. 21 Acme.

631

WORD GO ROUND

V

Down 1. Detective (6) 2. Main artery (5) 3. Always (4) 4. Pointless (6) 5. Madness (8) 6. Wanderer (7) 7. Force (6) 12. Rebelliousness (8) 14. Powerful embrace (4,3) 16. Illicit relationship (6) 17. Sequence (6) 18. Walk awkwardly (6) 21. Allocation (5) 22. Move slowly (aircraft) (4)

WORD GO ROUND

E E

S

aver calve carve carven cave caver cavern clave cleave cleaver clever crave craven eleven elver enclave even evener ever lave laver leave leaven leaver leva levee lever nave navel nerve neve never rave ravel raven reave reeve RELEVANCE reveal revel vale valence vane veal veer vela velar venal veneer venereal vernal

N E

U

SOLUTIONS

25

L C

AILED IN JOTS DEAD KEN LARGE HUT DECIMATED

Note: more than one solution may be possible.

24

Across 1. Mental condition (5,2,4) 8. Sincere (7) 9. Beam (5) 10. Rip (4) 11. Madman (7) 12. Expire (3) 13. Musical instrument (4) 15. Rotate (4) 17. Cunning (3) 19. Delicate (7) 20. Water (4) 23. Pale (5) 24. To sum up (2,1,4) 25. Rough calculation (11)

E L

T

21

22 23

I E

18

M A L L S

14

A D I E U

13

P A

L A G E R

10

A

C R A F T

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

PUZZLES

K S I P D A M P R G N N A P O

Y T Y P O B U A I R T I G H T

Y R I T D T V I X I E G Y R M

D A F F O D I L I L E T H A L

K I L E I I D S N L F I M S S

F G P W O S A C M E A N D E R

F H M V F H E R O D F E O J Y

S T A R S G S Y D I S A V O W

T Y H E R F W H E O F T U G I

J L A W I D O W E R E W R A P

Z I Z A G E B E N A Q V P O E

E N T R A P U B O R R O W E R

P E E D G L J B U I I Y I W W

E N V E L O P E B T I E S W Y

S C P D Y Y S D Q Y M F P U P

BLACKOUT

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

Solution opposite

DOUBLE CROSS

S T Y P D O A M P A I G R T I G P H T

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

32

COFFS & CLARENCE

MARCH-APRIL, 2019// SENIORS