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2 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

In this edition

Cover Story: Don Burke ..........................................Page 3 Travel ...............................................................Pages 15–17 Wellbeing ................................................................Page 18 What’s On ...............................................................Page 20 Money ......................................................................Page 21 Puzzles ....................................................................Page 23

Contact us Editor Gail Forrer gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Executive Heidi Birdsall heidi.birdsall@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Phone: 6650 2925. Suite 2, Ground Floor, 144-148 West High Street, Coffs Harbour, NSW, 2450.

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

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

Printed by News Corp Australia, Yandina.

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

Welcome

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

Finding myself in a gum tree moment

HOLD on I’m having an Aussie moment.

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

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

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

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

The timeless rhythm, playful tune together with those marvellous, earthy Australian lyrics captured the country’s collective

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

imagination and had us all tapping along.

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

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

As he watched from above, perhaps Steve would have responded with a “Crikey”, as he saw all these people sing with pride of their connection

with him, their community and their country.

Thirty-five years of broadcasting the radio show “Australian All Over” hosted by Macca (Ian MacNamara), proves our love of Aussie culture has not diminished (and I very much enjoy the ditty to this show too). In fact, if I recall rightly, on the first of show I ever heard, Macca was talking about a small school called Stonehenge, it seems the teacher and children had written a letter to the theme of “Why we live, where we live,” I have a been a fan ever since.

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

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

the Active Ageing movement.

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

But much like this famous song, I too have been to foreign shores – seen the sights and had delights. Travelling over planet earth is nothing less than awe inspiring and I have to say that as I sit behind my desk in front of the black framed computer reading through Ann Rickard’s Greek Island stories, I have suffered the occasional pang of severe jealousy.

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

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

— Gail

Spring into new planting ideas with Don Burke

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

PHOTO: MAREA BURKE

IT’S the new gardening year for most parts of Australia as the blossom flowers bloom and gardeners start planning their summer pickings.

Before turning that plan into reality, here’s a few tips from gardening guru Don Burke.

World’s easiest veggie garden “You can buy virtually ready-to-eat plants. They often come in 20 to 30cm pots. What that means, for some of the miniature tomato varieties, is they will grow

quite happily in that” Don said.

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

Don says if you are only going to grow one fruit, you should grow strawberries. “They will fruit for many years and all they need is fertilising say once a month with a

gentle liquid fertiliser,” he added.

“It’s perfect for a sunny balcony and for an easy-picking plant.”

Try something new this spring Don is keen for older gardeners to turn their gardening hands this spring to growing espaliered plants which are tied flat to lattice work, for example. Fruit trees such as citrus, apple and even olives, grown from when they are purchased with willowy stems, are easy to train

flat.

Planted in a pot of no less than 50cm diameter with two vertical timber pieces which have the lattice work screwed to it and with u-shaped plastic clips which can be purchased from gardening stores, your willowy plant can quickly be turned into an espalier plant. Remember to place the pot facing north where it will receive sun all day. If you aren’t sure which way is north, Don suggests you buy a compass.

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Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Coffs and Clarence

Seniors 3

Don’s backyard thrives Tracey Johnstone

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

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

Tucked away in one corner of his Sydney home is a secret garden Don has nurtured for the enjoyment of his two grandsons. In one area native orchids overhang from the rocks, and make colourful pickings for the children to present to their mother. In another corner of his five acres he grows Australian indigenous plants, most of which are local natives. It’s one of the few of its kind in

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

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

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

“The guests were mostly men and were quite worried about eating crocodile, so I told them it was great for virility, at which point they ate the lot,” he quipped.

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

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

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

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

INNOVATIVE: Don Burke at home in his secret garden.

He remembers his Burke’s Backyard television show as the pioneer for the cloned television lifestyle shows that now seem to dominate our prime viewing times.

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

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

“It was really more out of anger and disappointment at how gardening shows were, that I just determined to

do it (the show).”

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

“We invented the concept of lifestyle. From day one it consisted of dogs, cats, backyard pools, kids, decorating the house, building, cooking and plants,” he said. As to why he almost always wore a woollen jumper on the show, he reveals they were the solution to the problem of where to put his microphone so it would stay close enough to

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clearly catch his voice.

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

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

One passion Don doesn’t talk a lot about widely, but which he has treasured for 64 years, is his delightfully colourful budgerigars.

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

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

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

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

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

4 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

Profile: Ian ‘Macca’ MacNamara

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

Macca’s been all over Oz ordinary Australians.”

But Macca’s is no ordinary story.

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

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

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

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

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AGELESS: Australia All Over presenter Ian ‘Macca’ MacNamara reckons he still loves the job 35 years on because it connects ordinary Australians of all ages and backgrounds. INSET: Australia All Over live from Launceston in 1982.

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

“It’s fascinating what people do and the places they call from, whether it’s a ringer at Kurrumba Downs Station or religious people, truckies, people on oil rigs or kids interested in rocks.

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

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

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

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Macca said he loved travelling the country and getting out and meeting listeners.

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

And, while he always

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

“The world moves a lot faster these days,” Macca said.

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

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

Congratulated on what is an almost unheard of milestone, the voice of Australia All Over said the show’s success was less about him and more about the ordinary Australians who called in and shared their stories.

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

“There are so many divisions in society today.

We don’t talk about them on Sunday morning (when the show airs). We don’t get into the political fray.

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

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Local Story

Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Coffs and Clarence

Seniors 5

Next gen design in mind Belinda Scott

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generation.

This is another special interest for g2 Architects, headed by Ann and her architect son Oliver Gee. Ann has been working in Sawtell since moving from Sydney in 1979.

Her son Oliver joined her in the practice in 2004, when they changed the name to reflect their two-generation involvement.

“What we try to talk clients into is providing an accessible house,” Ann said.

“Adaptable design is not about handrails and that stuff, it is trying to future-proof a house, with adaptable bathrooms and on-level access wherever possible.

“These (houses) can adapt to ageing baby boomers.

PHOTO: DREW HOPPER

“These are basic principles for people in their 40s and 50s and for younger families as well, who need level access for children and prams.”

In the prize-winning Atrium Residence, built for two young clients on a steep, narrow site, g2 has included two adaptable bedrooms, one also has a studio and the other a media room, where beds

can be folded away into the walls.

An internal lift, recommended by the architects in place of a dumbwaiter, provides access between the floors in addition to the sculptural conch shell-like staircase.

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SENIOR Coffs Coast architect Ann M Gee of g2 Architects has a special interest in designing adaptable homes.

This month that focus helped g2’s Atrium Residence at Sapphire to win the HIA Northern NSW Home of the Year award for Coffs Coast builder Eric Horspool and his team.

Atrium Residence is also short-listed in the Australian Institute of Architects NSW Country Division awards, as is another very practical g2 design, a new amenities block at Macauleys Headland, designed and constructed for Coffs Harbour City Council.

The amenities block is now being replicated at other city locations.

The winners of the NSW Country Division Awards will be announced at the NSW Country Division Conference in Coffs Harbour from October 3-6.

While adaptable design allows for ageing in place, Ann said the beauty of approaching design this way was that it also catered for the next

apartment design guide and a revised planning instrument, SEPP 65, which together provide guidance and regulation to improve the liveability and environmental and social performance of new units and which incorporate energy efficiency and water management.

Ann believes this ‘carrot and stick’ approach will eventually be applied to stand-alone housing.

Ann said the BASIX building rules had already created a whole lot of housing stock which was fully insulated, with north-facing windows.

She said a correctly designed and angled eave was the single simplest, cheapest and most effective feature of home design because of its year-round effect.

Ann also spoke about the importance of energy stored in houses in an address at the HIA Awards on September 1.

She said when she first began designing houses for clients, she often gave them thermally stable houses without telling them, but now she had expert clients who asked for energy efficiency.

6 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

Local Story

Iron lung on show at Grafton museum

Hello from SCCA …

We all hold a story within us, our story of ‘self’. But for so many older people and people diagnosed with illness like Dementia their story of self becomes lost and forgotten, and these people become isolated, depressed and unwell.

Telling stories has been hardwired into our human DNA from the time we sat around the fire and listened to a recount of the latest mammoth hunt to the family stories we heard as children while we sat around the kitchen table and shelled peas. These stories taught us, entertained us and connected us with each other.

At SCCA we believe in the power of stories to heal. Our three year digital storytelling project “Holding the Story”, launched in September 2017 is an innovative creative arts in health program using storytelling in a digital format to help people share stories that are meaningful to them. Through partnering with Southern Cross University and local documentary makers Small World Stories, we hope to investigate the positive impact that sharing stories brings.

You can view some of the stories on our website at www.scca.net.au/holding-the-story/

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SCCA, it’s a whole lot of great stories!

See you next month Michelle

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

THE Henderson Respirator, the breathing machine that became known as the iron lung, was invented by a young Scottish doctor in the early 1930s.

Robert Henderson, the son of a village blacksmith, was working at City Hospital, Aberdeen when he became interested in the intensive care of patients with respiratory problems.

During a visit to America, he saw a demonstration of a tank respirator called the Drinker Respirator and once back in Aberdeen, he and the hospital engineer worked in the evenings and at weekends to make their own version.

Using portholes and other items from ships’ chandleries, they built a negative pressure ventilator made up of an airtight cabinet to enclose the body from the neck down, mounted on a children’s cot, with a vacuum pump attached and portholes for viewing.

Four weeks after it was

MIRACLE BOX: Schaeffer House volunteer Suzanne Gibson in the museum’s medical section with the iron lung. The tall structure behind it is an X-ray machine.

PHOTO: BELINDA SCOTT

completed, the Henderson Respirator was used to save the life of a 10-year-old boy suffering from polio, the first case in Britain to be treated in this way.

Despite its success, the local authority’s medical officer was annoyed by the publicity and Henderson was reprimanded for having secretly made the machine using the hospital’s facilities.

As a result, he never sent his draft paper on the

case for publication.

It finally appeared in the Scottish Medical Journal in 1997, when Dr Henderson was 95.

However, his invention was widely used and in December 1938, leading British industrialist and philanthropist Lord Nuffield offered to manufacture the respirators and supply them free of charge to any hospital in Britain and the British Empire that requested one.

Grafton received one of

the 1700 his factory made and distributed around the world. It now rests in the city’s Schaeffer House Museum.

The bulky and cumbersome iron lung did not become obsolete until the arrival of the first positive pressure ventilators, which force air directly into the lungs, in the 1950s.

After polio epidemics, the 1960s became an era of respiratory intensive care and new types of ventilators evolved.

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Local Story

Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Coffs and Clarence

Seniors 7

Remote medical mission BLUE seas and black teeth were among the contrasts facing Coffs Harbour dentist Tony Kershaw and his wife Wendy when the couple recently joined a medical mission to a group of tiny and remote Pacific islands in the Solomon Sea. The couple flew from Cairns to Port Moresby and on to Alotau to join a shipload of other volunteers including four dentists, four doctors and a number of nurses aboard the Townsville-based YWAM (Youth with a Mission) medical ship. The ship was home as they visited five islands in the Louisiade and Woodlark archipelagos off the southern tip of Papua New Guinea, to provide health screening and services.

Over 17 days Tony and Wendy visited five different islands and 15 different villages, spending long days dispensing dental care, often in the open air under a tree.

Panapompom Island, Woodlark Island, Rossel island, Misima Island and Panaeati Island are hardly household words.

“We didn’t really know where they were – we had to look them up on Google,” Wendy said.

An ocean cruise, calling at remote and unspoiled islands and meeting friendly locals might seem like an idyllic holiday, but it was much more than that.

Tony and Wendy said the islands were truly beautiful, as their photograph gallery shows, but the visitors well and

truly earned their keep.

Tony said the four dentists performed 500 odd teeth extractions for the islanders, 160 of which he did. As well as hundreds of fillings and teeth cleans, the doctors and nurses also did immunisations, including for tetanus.

“There is a lot of gum disease,” Tony said.

“They chew coral, crushed with betel nut and it gets up under their gums and causes gum disease.” The betel nut also stains their teeth dark.

“But on the islands where there is no shop, the kids didn’t have holes in their teeth.” Tony said he saw children as young as six chewing the betel nut which takes away appetite.

“The mining companies are starting to go back in, bringing electricity – and chips and soft drinks.

“We were pretty lucky we got to go when we did.”

“It was hard work with long days,” Wendy said.

She said the islanders ate a diet high in fish and shellfish, paddling dugout canoes, harvesting sea cucumber and fishing with spears using sharpened sticks. They also kept chickens and pigs and

grew bananas.

“There is no money, so they have nothing to give you, but they would bring chickens or pigs to the ship and everywhere they give you coconuts,” Wendy said. The couple enjoyed the experience of meeting, travelling and working with people from many different countries, some of whom had their families with them, the ship had passengers aged from one-year old to 86.

“The ship was alcohol-free, which was sensible,” Tony said.

“It made socialisation quite different.”

The couple, who have sold their dental practice at Coffs Harbour, say now that their children have finished university, they are looking at more dental volunteering overseas and are already tossing up between East Timor’s Balibo dental clinic or work in South India.

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8 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

Talk’n’thoughts Hurdles, highjumps and solutions

Share your thoughts

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

Mental note: I am not ageist FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK GAIL FORRER

Group editor Seniors Newspapers network

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

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

SENIORS NEWS: Celebrating the age of active wisdom.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— Cheers Gail

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

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

After a bit more argy

Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

HOW TO SUBMIT NOTICES

PLEASE submit a photo and ensure it is at least 180dpi with faces in a nice and bright setting.

Deadline for the October issue is October 11. Email Nicky or Chris at community notes@seniors newspaper.com.au.

COFFS U3A

DO YOU have a passion or an interest you would enjoy sharing with like minded people? Ever thought of becoming a tutor or facilitator with Coffs U3A? We have many interesting and varied classes, but we want to expand our horizons.

Classes are held during the day in school terms and can be weekly, fortnightly, one term or a years’ duration.

U3A is a totally volunteer organisation, no one receives remuneration for their contribution. Interested?

Look at our website: www.coffs.u3anet.org.au or phone 6696 3390 or 0410 083 502.

FREE FINANCIAL SEMINARS

UNDERSTAND your pension and/or learn about estate planning for older people at two free

Community News

financial information seminars conducted by the Federal Government’s Department of Human Services on September 27. Pension 3.30–5pm; estate planning 5.30–7pm. Bookings essential. Call 136 357 or email fis.seminar. bookings@human services.gov.au.

BELLOPY MARKET

GARDEN GALA

LOCALLY grown and home-made coffee, honey, fruit, vegetables, plants and more, River St from 8.30am-12.30pm on October 7 and 21.

MACKSVILLE Showground will host a Garden Gala and Market Day on Saturday, September 30.

This is a family day with a variety of plants and produce stalls, arts and crafts, gifts, rides and activities for children, live music, creative workshops food and refreshments.

BONVILLE-BOAMBEE VIEW CLUB

OUR club was formed in 1995 and currently sponsors three Smith Family Learning for Life students and is actively involved in fundraising activities. We are always open to new members.

Meeting day is on the second Thursday of the month. Next meeting is Thursday, October 12.

For more information call 6658 6336 or www.view.org.au.

BELLINGEN’S local organic produce and humane choice farmers market and cafe in the Anglican Church grounds at the top of Hyde St from 8.30am-1.30pm on October 6 and 20.

Coffs and Clarence

Seniors 9

People behind the scenes

MACKSVILLE PRODUCE MARKET

MEDLOW GROWERS MARKET

SAMPLE local produce in a beautiful country setting at Medlow Public School, Upper Taylors Arm, on October 1 and 15.

All-weather venue; make it, bake it, grow it producers market 8am-noon.

ST COLUMBAN’S COLLEGE REUNION

ST COLUMBAN’S College at Caboolture (formerly at Albion) are planning two reunions in late October for past students.

For the Alumni 1967 event, contact Michael McMahon on 3266 3939 or Dick Bennett 0402 717 247.

The gorgeous greeters of the front desk.

It truly is service with a smile. How did you get into the dental industry?

Charmayne- I worked for an Orthodontist for 8 years before starting here as a Dental Nurse and for the last 7 years I have been working on reception.

The front desk is really the engine room of the surgery. What do you enjoy most about it?

Jenny- Some patients come in after an accident and the damage to their mouth is extensive but after our skilled dentists have worked on them they are so happy as it makes a huge difference to their confidence. I also enjoy watching our young patients grow up and have children of their ownit’s a privilege.

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Jenny-Regular dental care is the key to great oral health and your overall wellbeing. Give our surgery a call and I will be happy to book you into one of our wonderful doctors.

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Charmayne- I love the outdoors so Coffs is the perfect spot for that. Whether it’s walking along the beach, 4WD or swimming in fresh water rivers I’m there. We are so lucky to live here as we have the best of both worlds.

10 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

Advertising Feature

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

Clarence Care + Support for Seniors Healthy tips

A word from Kerry Little

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Karen Waterhouse Home care senior program co-ordinator

Manager, Care + Support Services

THE BENEFITS OF EXERCISE

A LOVELY compliment for our RAS team.

Clarence Care + Support offers a wide range of services in the community including domestic assistance, personal care, home care packages, social support and a Meals on Wheels services.

We also provide a Regional Assessment Service.

The team of assessors receive referrals from My Aged Care to go out and visit people to assist them with developing a plan so they can continue to live at home.

Here is an example of how our staff can help people in all sorts of ways.

Our Regional Assessment team go out most days assisting people to identify what assistance they may require.

This is not always an easy job as there may not be any vacancies in services at the time.

Recently one gentleman that our RAS Assessor Maria Eddy visited phoned the office to say the following: “The information kit sent by RAS assessor, Maria Eddy, containing information about how to select personal alarm (different options, what to look for, prices to expect, contact details) was fantastic, and the new alarm I purchased has changed my life – I now feel safe going into the community alone for the first time in a long time. It has boosted my confidence beyond belief.”

Sometimes it’s the little things that make a big difference.

It is so nice for staff to get feedback so if you have any suggestions or need further information about aged care services please phone us on 6645 0400.

MANY studies over the years have provided direct links between increased physical activities and reducing the possibility of developing some chronic illnesses and even depression.

General benefits of introducing a regular exercise routine daily can include: ■ Reduction of the risk of a heart attack ■ Reduction of the risk of falls ■ Improvement of muscle and joint strength and lowered risk of osteoporosis ■ Weight management ■ Lower cholesterol levels ■ Reduced risk of some chronic illnesses ■ Lower blood pressure ■ Improved recovery rates from acute hospital stays ■ A general feeling of well-being – more energy, better mood ■ Improved sleep patterns Before starting any form of exercise, it is a good idea to check in with your doctor initially.

Remember doing any type of physical activity is better than doing none at all.

A gentle walk around your local neighbourhood is a great start.

A new program called Active Seniors has recently been launched.

This program provides information and

Workshop information: ■ Ballina – Friday, October 6, Ballina Surf Club at 10.30am.

■ Lismore – Friday, October 6, Fountain Room at 2pm.

■ Tweed Heads – Monday, October 9 at Banora Point Community Centre at 11am.

■ Coffs Harbour – Thursday, November 16 Community Village at 10.30am.

■ Grafton – Friday, November 17 Grafton Library at 10.30am.

Golden celebration KEITH Logue & Sons is a family owned business established in Coffs Harbour since 1967. The Logue family have a history of offering quality and caring service to families now spanning four generations. Our family and trained consultants will answer any question you may have and gently guide you through the funeral arrangements with sensitivity, warmth and understanding to create a final unique and loving tribute.

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Your Life Your Funeral Pre-planning a funeral means peace of mind for you and eases the burden on your family financially, and they know they are carrying out the wishes of their loved one. Contact us on 6652 1999.

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education for persons over the age of 55 on how to improve your overall strength, flexibility and balance.

The Active Seniors website www.activeseniors.net.au has information, online resources and information about local workshops you can attend for added support.

The program has a very positive book which has a range of information about staying mentally and physically active, improving your strength and flexibility and how to improve your nutritional health.

There are stories from many different people including Ita Buttrose.

The book costs $20 of which $15 is donated to the Alzheimer’s Research foundation.

For further information you can phone 9499 4344.

Funeral & Cremation Directors Since 1967 34 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour

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Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Coffs and Clarence

How to find an aged care home you’ll love

Seniors 11

Chris McNeil, resident at a Whiddon aged care home In most cases, and for a number of reasons, searching for and choosing a care home is a rushed journey with little to no time to shop around. I had the luxury of knowing that I needed to move into an aged care home ahead of time and I could ‘window shop’ to find the care home I wanted to call mine, and I am so glad that I took the time to do this.

If you, or a relative, are approaching what I’m calling ‘life’s horizon’ – a time when living at home may soon or eventually become unsafe and difficult to manage – why not check out a few care homes now rather than later. Even if you don’t need it just yet, it helped me to have time to shop around and find the right place instead of being sent to the first available home.

Chris’ checklist of things to look for 1 Room size and amenities: All rooms were surprisingly roomy, as was the ensuite bathrooms. All rooms had a front door and another onto their own patio – having outdoor access was important to me.

2 Internet, TV and phone connections: Access to technology was really important and a lack of access would have been a deal breaker.

My home has complimentary Foxtel in every room, and in-room phone and internet connections.

3 Gardens and outdoor areas: Having gardens and outdoor areas that were accessible was another important feature for me. I was pleasantly surprised that the home had outdoor walkways and a large central patio that were all undercover, meaning that she could be outdoors even in inclement weather.

4 The size of the home: Are you looking for a smaller home, or a larger community with additional facilities – my home accommodates 40 residents in the main home and a further 20 residents in its Dementia and Palliative Care unit and is the right size for me.

5 Food and menu choices: The menus at my home are put together on a seasonal basis and account for individual dietary requirements, the catering team at the home also host special birthday and anniversary luncheons and theme days throughout the year.

6 The right environment: A huge part of finding the right home is about how it feels to you and whether the ‘vibe’ is right. From the day I visited the home, I could see and feel the welcoming environment and was impressed when we were offered Morning Tea. The happy and positive behaviour of other residents and staff helped me get a true feel for the home.

Whiddon Grafton New aged care home opening soon Experience exceptional care and a lifestyle you’ll love at Grafton’s newest aged care home.

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Enquire today

12 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

IN HOME CARE FEATURE

Want to be linked to life and help others?

LINKED to Life is a community based organisation dedicated to enabling older people and younger people with disabilities to remain independent in their own homes and to maintain their social connections with others.

We offer personalised services that are flexible and tailored to individuals, and specialise in providing regular housekeeping, assistance with shopping and a variety of individual and social group activities.

Our organisation is supported by a dedicated team of volunteers who make the world of difference to the people they help with daily tasks most of us take for granted, such as buying groceries, paying bills or attending an appointment, or simply brightening up

someone’s day.

Volunteering with Linked to Life offers opportunities to remain active in the community, develop new friendships, learn new skills and add enriching experiences to your day-to-day life. We are keen to welcome new volunteers to our team.

A few hours a week or fortnight is all it takes to brighten someone’s day and enable them to remain living independently in their own home.

Our volunteers receive ongoing training, support and reimbursement for any travel and out of pocket expenses, and we regularly recognise and reward our volunteers for their dedication. Why not consider becoming part of our volunteer team where your time really matters. Visit: www.linkedto life.org.au or phone 6648 3650.

Help is at hand MY AGED Care is an Australian Government website and phone line to help you find out what aged care services may be available to help you.

Talking about getting some extra help is often the difference needed to help you continue to live an independent and active life. Here are five steps you can take to see if you qualify for assistance in your home.

Step 1. Find out about what services are available There are some steps you need to take to find out if you are eligible to receive services such as help at home for personal care, transport, modifications to your home, nursing, physiotherapy and other care including meals and household jobs like cleaning or gardening. You may also be able to gain assistance with equipment and social activities. Services can be

long or short term. You can also apply to go into an aged care facility.

If you find you need ongoing help with day-to-day tasks or health care, a residential aged care home lets you live in a supported environment where help is available 24 hours a day.

Step 2. Call us on 1800 200 422 A consultant will ask questions over the phone to help work out your needs and care arrangements.

This takes at least 10 minutes. You will need your Medicare card. If you would like someone to call My Aged Care for you, you will need to give them your consent. If you’re calling for someone else, they need to give their consent.

Step 3. Have a face-to-face assessment My Aged Care may arrange for a trained assessor to come to your home. Someone else can

Your rights.

Your voice.

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

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

Legal | Advocacy | Education Free and confidential

1800 424 079

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be with you during this visit.

Step 4. Find out about costs My Aged Care and service providers can give you information about costs.

Step 5. Choose services Your assessor and My Aged Care can also help you find a service provider(s) in your local area that meets your needs.

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

Finding a service provider If your assessment shows you are eligible for services under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme, you can work with the assessor to decide which provider(s) you want to receive services from.

Choosing services You can decide on the services you want and choose providers to deliver them.

The Regional Assessment Service assessor can send referrals for service to the relevant provider(s) in your local area. If there are no services available, the assessor will talk to you about other options.

Help at home costs The Australian Government subsidises home care services. If you are eligible, you are expected to contribute to the cost of your care and services if you can afford to.

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

For details visit https:// www.myaged care.gov.au or phone 1800 200 422.

Coffs and Clarence

Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 13

IN HOME CARE FEATURE

Staying at home longer NAMBUCCA Valley Phoenix and LiveBetter Community Services have partnered to provide a range of supports to maintain independent living in the home.

Our services include home care packages, domestic assistance, shopping, personal care, home modifications and maintenance, transport and social support.

We can also help you navigate your way through My Aged Care.

Regional specialist LiveBetter has provided dignified care, support and guidance to customers, their carers and loved ones with respect, compassion and understanding since 1984, and is delighted to partner with local for-purpose organisation Nambucca Valley Phoenix.

Our combined aim is to help individuals, families and communities to be

healthy, independent and strong by offering the right advice and services through a broad range of in-home and community based support.

Client focused aged care services provided by these local compassionate organisations include helping frail older people maintain their independence through: ■ Commonwealth Home Support Program services including domestic assistance and personal care.

■ Home Care Packages providing support around individualised care plans to maximise independence.

■ Home Modifications and Maintenance.

■ Transport Services.

■ Carer support by giving those caring for a loved one who is aged, has a disability or mental illness, support and respite from care giving through our

Dementia Respite service and the Commonwealth Carer Respite Centre.

We have more than 800 staff and offices across NSW including Orange, Balranald, Bathurst, Bourke, Broken Hill, Bowraville, Cobar, Condobolin, Coonabarabran, Cowra, Dubbo, Glen Innes, Griffith, Ivanhoe, Lightning Ridge, Macksville, Mudgee, Nambucca Heads, Nyngan, Parkes, Tenterfield, Wagga Wagga and Wentworth.

Servicing these regions and surrounds, LiveBetter is one of the largest regionally based providers of community services in regional NSW. For further information on Nambucca Valley Phoenix or LiveBetter and details on the aged care services available in your area call 180 580 580 or visit www.livebetter.org.au.

AWARD WINNING: An community care provider on the Coffs Coast. PHOTO: JONATHAN BANKS

Quality service

COMMUNITY Care Options is a not-for-profit company that has been delivering quality services to older people, people with a disability, carers, people exiting hospital and those who are financially disadvantaged, for more than 27 years on the Coffs Coast.

After winning three awards at the local Sunny’s Business Awards – Employer of Choice for the third year in a row, Excellence in Business Practices and Professional Development

and Staff Training – Community Care Options went on to compete as a finalist in five categories at the Mid North Coast Regional Business Awards held in Port Macquarie recently.

CEO Deb Ryan advised that Community Care Options was honoured to once again be recognised as Employer of Choice at a regional level, at the Business Awards.

“Community Care Options is one of the largest employers on the Coffs Coast, with currently

over 170 employees,” says Deb. “We recognise our people as being our most valuable resource in delivering quality outcomes for our clients.

As an Employer of Choice, we are focused on attracting, retaining and supporting quality people.

“Our clients can be confident that we select the best people to meet their needs and provide ongoing support, training and development to staff to ensure quality client outcomes.”

Caring for our community Caring for the Local Community for 27 years

VOLUNTEER WITH US Linked to Life welcomes new enthusiastic volunteers to our team.

For those keen to find a rewarding experience, our volunteers play a vital role in enabling older people to remain active in the community and independent at home.

We specialise in:

Shopping Assisted transport Individual and group social activities

For more information contact us at

Sunny Awards Winner 2017 Employer of Choice, Excellence in Business Practice and Professional Development and Staff Training.

Coffs Harbour - 02 6648 3650 Woolgoolga - 02 6654 7221

www.linkedtolife.org.au

To discuss the reforms in Aged Care and Disability services or for more information on how Community Care Options can assist you,

please call 6650 2000 www.cco.net.au | admin@cco.net.au

www.cco.net.au | admin@cco.net.au

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Email: admin@linkedtolife.org.au

Or call in for a chat at the Community Village at 22 Earl St, Coffs Harbour, or Seniors Centre, Boundary Street Woolgoolga

14 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

IN HOME CARE FEATURE

Flexible respite for carers now available with KinCare

KINCARE has launched the country’s first ‘truly flexible’ respite model designed to work around carers’ needs and schedules.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

changes to aged care, disability and carer service systems.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

IN HOME SUPPORT: Carers play an important role in our communities.

Approved Aged Care and NDIS Provider Services under the following programs: Home Care Packages (across all levels) Veterans Home Care Program Private

DVA Community Nursing Respite Disability (NDIS)

Covering the 3 LGA’s of Coffs Harbour, Bellingen and Nambucca

LocaLLy owned and operated for 28 years

Nambucca Valley Phoenix and LiveBetter Community Services provide a range of supports to maintain independent living in the home. Our services include home care packages, domestic assistance, shopping, personal care, home modifications & maintenance, transport & social support. We can also help you navigate your way through My Aged Care.

For more information call 1800 580 580 or visit livebetter.org.au

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NSW Home Support Services making the home care assistance easier for you.

Call us and we will come to you

1300 770 118

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Coffs and Clarence

Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 15

Travel

10

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

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

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

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

things to love about the Greek islands

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

ideal.

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

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

feel 10 years younger.

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

Mykonos is your go. Crave peace and quiet?

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

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

They run all day and early evening in the summer.

Best to do your research,

arm yourself with timetables and plan.

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

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

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

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

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

for All your

travel needs!

AirfAres, pAckAges, cruises speciAl interest tours!

Ph 02 6651 1555 • Email: coffs@quadrantaustralia.com • www.quadrantaustralia.com

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16 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

Travel

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I cannot emphasise this too strongly.

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

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

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

No more.

■ Train travel is becoming more popular every year.

No security airport hassles, departing and arriving in the heart of cities. But getting heavy suitcases on and off trains is difficult for the senior traveller. Again, pack light, lift easily. Ask

anyone near you for help.

Or pay a porter.

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

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

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

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

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

■ Stairs are the enemy of the senior traveller,

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seniors need to sit more than other tourists.

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

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

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Travel

Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Coffs and Clarence

Seniors 17

Explore Europe with an experienced agent

SCANDINAVIA is one of the safest places in the world for single tourists, and it is also one of the most beautiful places in the world.

This knockout combination, plus her knowledge of the region and her desire to explore it further, inspired veteran Grafton travel agent Christine Byrne to organise a special trip for locals in Europe’s late summer 2018.

Tailor-made to cater for older women without partners, or who have partners who do not want to travel; this is a trip for those who want to experience the wide world of breathtaking mountain peaks plunging into sapphire fjords, storybook towns, vast forests and multitudinous islands, but who may be nervous about setting out on their own.

There is no single supplement on this tour, which has a land-only cost of $2775, with twin-share accommodation.

“I’ve been trying to do this for about four years,” Christine said.

Christine is understandably excited that it is finally going to ‘lift off’ on August 30, 2018.

Christine, who lost her own husband five years ago, knows all about travelling on her own, but she also has a son who has lived in Finland for the last 18 years and she often travels to Scandinavia.

The members of Christine’s small local group, so far aged 48 to 70, will join a larger group in Europe for the Cosmos Viking Explorer bus tour, after touching down in

STUNNING SCENERY: A train on Norway’s Flamm Railway, which Lonely Planet has called the world’s most beautiful train trip.

Amsterdam.

Accommodation will be in three-and-a-half-star accommodation and the trip will take the group through Holland, Germany, Denmark, Sweden and Norway in 12 days.

It will also include a cruise on the Sognefjord, Europe’s largest fjord and a journey on the famous Flamm railway, described

by Lonely Planet as the world’s most beautiful train journey.

The 20km Flamm train line is also the steepest standard-gauge railway in the world.

The trip will end at the spectacular Hanseatic seaport of Bergen.

“It’s the last tour (Cosmos) do just as summer finishes,” Christine said.

❝

This is a trip for those who want to experience the wide world...

“I used to do a lot of Rotary exchange and I keep in contact with a lot of them.

“One of the girls is in Bergen.

“I just went over (to Finland) to babysit the grandkids.

“I know what you can and can’t do in these countries.

“But this time I’m going with everyone else as part of the tour.

“I’m comfortable with Cosmos and I’m happy with someone else doing

Brightly painted buildings are a feature of Nyhavn, a 17th century waterfront, canal and entertainment district in the Danish capital of Copenhagen.

PHOTO: SUPPALAK KLABDEE

the talking – I can go off and do different things like day tours and I’m going to Czechoslovakia after the tour finishes,” she said.

Meanwhile Christine would like names for interested people before Christmas if possible, so she can get the best prices for flights which she is happy to organise.

Once the group is assembled, Christine plans a getting-to-knowyou gathering so fellow travellers are not complete strangers.

Phone Christine at the Grafton Flight Centre on 6643 4890 or 0437 043 827.

Alternatively, you can email christine.byrne @flightcentre.com.au.

Christine Byrne has worked in the travel industry for 44 years, has visited 43 countries and her favourite city is Helsinki.

Fees Apply Gumma Reserve, Macksville Item Code: MNCNSWI6 Gumma Reserve, Macksville, is a large grassed area beside a quiet creek with a boat ramp for water access. A good spot to unwind after a long day of driving, the site is pet friendly and has flushing toilet facilities.

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18 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

Wellbeing

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

MEN’S CANCER MONTH SPECIAL FEATURE

Men, how is your sex life?

Foundation 49

HUMAN sexuality is complex and varied and can be influenced by any number of factors.

These include but are not limited to your age, your physical and emotional health, medications you may be taking, substance use and abuse, lack of sleep and work stresses to name a few.

Sometimes one person’s sex drive doesn’t match his or her partner’s sex drive.

The simple truth is that everyone is different and there is no norm for sexual behaviour.

Erectile dysfunction is a common condition where men have difficulty getting and maintaining an erection firm enough for sexual activity.

Often men joke about it, but when it happens over and over, it’s not only

distressing but can mean something is wrong.

We take getting an erection for granted, and think it will come up whenever we demand.

However the mechanism is complicated, requiring the mood and healthy nerves and arteries to make it happen.

Most men will have occasions where things don’t work out – that’s normal and shouldn’t cause concern. However when it persists this can be very distressing to both the man and his partner.

The longer it is left untreated, the more the relationship may suffer.

Unfortunately many men start to avoid sexual activity rather than seeking help.

For men in middle age, the blood flow to the penis may be impaired because of smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes or high

MEN'S HEALTH: Get advice on dealing with the common problem of erectile dysfunction.

PHOTO: BOWDENIMAGES

cholesterol. When this is associated with ED it can mean the circulation to the heart may also be impaired.

Checking out a man with ED often picks up these problems in a timely

way, allowing the underlying conditions to be treated before more serious problems arise.

Mental health problems also frequently affect sexual function.

For most men with ED,

treatment is available which will allow an erection to be achieved and sexual activity restored. The local GP is in a position to guide men about these treatments, as well as assessing the

important associated factors.

Other sexual dysfunctions are not so common but also need to be addressed. These include loss of interest in sex, premature ejaculation, delayed ejaculation and inability to climax. Again the local GP can help with these conditions or recommend an expert who can help.

If you are having problems in this area talk about it with your partner.

Sometimes they feel rejected as they don’t understand what is going on. They may feel they are to blame, or you no longer find them desirable, or you may be getting sex elsewhere.

If talking to your partner about your sexual needs and concerns is too difficult, seek professional assistance from a third party you trust, like a GP or sex therapist.

For more details, go to www.andrologyaustralia. org.

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You may have an underlying problem that causes ED

Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Living

Coffs and Clarence

Seniors 19

Queensland

They’re coming! Buyers from the southern states are heading to Queensland!

With excellent sales in July and August, your opportunity to live in The Scarborough is quickly disappearing. It’s time to discover a life beyond dreams...

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20 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

What’s on JOURNALIST BELINDA SCOTT

COOL POOL

YAMBA’S popular ocean pool has been reopened to swimmers just in time for the arrival of warmer weather. Clarence Valley Council staff closed the pool in early August after leaks saw the water drop to an unsafe level. Fillers and sealers have provided a short-term solution but longer-term options are still needed.

STREET THEATRE

PERFORMERS will be everywhere in Coffs Harbour until October 1, with the 2017 Buskers and Comedy Festival taking to the streets as well as the clubs and pubs every day. See: coffsharbourbuskers.com.

NAMBUCCA HOT ROD PARADE

HOT rods will sparkle in

Nambucca on September 30 when the machines of the Drag-ens Hot Rod Club parade down Bowra St and line up from 9am-noon. This year’s Valla Rod Run from September 24-30 will include a billycart derby at Bowraville, belt sander racing and a shoebox swap meet.

BRIDGE TO BRIDGE SKI RACE

GRAFTON’s 108km Bridge to Bridge Ski Race from the Crown Hotel to Harwood Bridge and return is on from September 30 to October 1. The event attracts competitors from around Australia and overseas.

EAT ST YAMBA

YAMBA’S Coldstream St becomes Eat St, Yamba from 4-8pm on October 1.

Music, kids’ fun, food stalls and Rotary bar.

Showcasing local food vendors and restaurants.

BCAC MEMBERS ART PRIZE

HIGH TEA

CLARENCE River High tea at Calliope Hall on October 15 – high tea, live music and good company for this charity fundraiser.

There will be prizes for the best-dressed. Website: clarenceriverhightea.com.

SWIM WITH A VIEW: Yamba’s Ocean pool has reopened.

BELLINGEN Community Arts Council members have their work on show in this annual exhibition at the Nexus Community Gallery until October 13.

Combine your visit with a cafe lunch and a wander through the other galleries and shops at the Old Butter Factory beside the Bellinger River.

KOALAS IN OUR BACKYARDS TOUR

TOORMINA’S bushland reserves provide vital habitat for an endangered koala population and other wildlife.A guided 2.6km Coffs Ambassadors tour

Rethink respite A new subsidised program with support tailored to your needs: • Short term for unexpected events • Long term for planned breaks Simply call KinCare today 1300 724 288 AVAILABLE FOR CARERS OF OVER 65’S

Laurie Sports Centre, Yamba.

10am-noon on Sunday October 1.Book via ourlivingcoast.com.au

GEM SHOW

GRAFTON Gem and Craft Show will be held on October 7 at Grafton Showground, with opals, fossils, gems, jewellery, lapidary supplies, timber craft, handmade gifts.

Grafton Scout Group fundraiser.

YAMBA YOGA FESTIVAL

YAMBA Yoga Festival will be held on the weekend of October-14-15 with workshops, market stalls and live music, Raymond

BRUXNER RAINFOREST WALK

MAJESTIC rainforest giants and a crystal-clear stream just 15 minutes from the centre of Coffs Harbour is what you will find on this 2km Coffs Ambassador guided walk through the Bruxner Park Flora Reserve on Saturday October 21. Learn about the animals and plants that inhabit this ancient connection to Gondwana.

Bookings: ourlivingcoast.com.au

COUNTRY MUSTER

CLARENCE Valley Country Muster, with headline acts Jett Williams and Tania Kernaghan, plus a long list of other performers

from Chad Morgan to the Gunbarrel Highwaymen from October 23-29 at 11 Coulters Lane, Calliope. www.cvcmuster.com.au.

DORRIGO FOLK

DORRIGO folk and Bluegrass Festival will be held October 27-29, with the inaugural Dorrigo Old-Time Music School held October 25-27.

Featured artists include Foghorn Stringband and Mile Twelve.

GRANDPARENTS DAY

SUNDAY, October 29 is a day to celebrate the life, times and achievements of grandparents and all older people.

HARBOUR HISTORY WALK

WALK and learn the Aboriginal and European history of Coffs Harbour on this relaxing 3km walk from 10am-noon. Sunday, October 29. Bookings: ourlivingcoast.com.au.

Coffs and Clarence

Monday, September 25, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 21

Money

Superannuation option for retirees aiming to downsize ANDREW Heaven, an AMP financial planner at Wealth Partners Financial Solutions, talks about putting downsizing proceeds into superannuation.

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

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

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

From July 1, 2018, individuals aged 65 and over will be able to make personal, on-concessional contributions into their super of up to $300,000 from the sale of their home. For those who qualify for the superannuation downsizer contribution, the existing super contribution rules for people aged 65 and

an individual was to sell a property for $160,000, then $160,000 would be the limit.

Individuals must have owned their property for a minimum of 10 years however they are not obliged to have lived in the property for the full 10 years. There is no obligation to make a subsequent property purchase. You can move into retirement communities, aged care, smaller properties, homes not close to schools or away from major employments centres or into your adult children’s homes.

Superannuation downsizer contributions would be required to be made to a super fund within 90 days of settlement of the property. Extensions to this deadline may be sought from the Australian Taxation Office. You may make multiple contributions within the 90 days provided that in aggregate the contributions are within the caps and meet all other criteria. However, you are limited to one superannuation downsizer contribution from the sale of a property, even if you sold a subsequent qualifying property.

In order to take advantage of the superannuation downsizer contribution, the contract

of sale must be entered into on or after July 1, 2018. Therefore exchanging contracts on the property prior to July 1, 2018 would void any entitlement to utilise the superannuation downsizer contribution, so be careful. The superannuation downsizer contribution is a non-concessional contribution therefore there are no tax deductions for making the contribution. The consultation period for the draft legislation closed on August 4. Please note the draft legislation is not yet law and may be subject to change.

As to whether using the superannuation downsizer contribution is of benefit to you will largely depend upon you personal circumstances including your income needs, your taxable income, the scale of your current super investments and your estate planning needs.

Stay tuned for future updates and consider the above before making any financial decisions.

Q&A with The Coach story first appeared on the WealthPartners. They can followed on Facebook and Twitter. Any general advice in this story doesn’t take account of your personal objectives, financial situation and needs.

Website: www.wealth partners.net.au.

It’s All About The Income Stupid!

Bill Clinton famously used the catchphrase it’s the economy, stupid in his 1992 presidential campaign.

Well as financial planners we understand that income matters and with interest rates at all-time lows combined with recent reductions in the Age Pension, retirees are being squeezed from all sides.

We believe that it is these retirees that are the forgotten ones here as the Reserve Bank is only concerned with those that borrow and not those that save.

With term deposit rates so low we are constantly meeting with people faced with the conundrum of eating into capital simply to maintain their cost of living. And whilst you can sustain that for a period of time at some point reality hits and you are forced to do something different.

Income is out there, however, you need to be careful where you get it because like anything in life if it looks too good to be true - then it probably is’.

So what is the solution? Come in and talk to us as everyone’s situation is different and deserves individual attention.

6 Earl St, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Phone: 02 6651 2000

6653337ab

ANDREW HEAVEN WEALTH PARTNERS

older; work test for those aged 65-74 and no contributions for those aged 75 and over, will not apply. Additionally restrictions on non-concessional contributions for people with balances above $1.6m will not apply under this new initiative.

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

Both members of a couple will be able to take advantage of the superannuation downsizer contribution cap. Meaning that a couple could contribute up to $600,000 ($300,000 each) to super. There is no obligation for you both to have been on title, just that one of you was on title.

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

While there is a cap of $300,000 per person, the limit of the contribution is the value of the property sale. So if you sold the family home for $450,000, the limit would be $450,000 for the couple, provided no more than $300,000 was contributed per person. If

22 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

Live and Let’s Save

Reap benefits

To advertise, call 1300 136 181 or visit finda.com.au

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Tip

Clean, Mean, Selling Machine.

Make sure you thoroughly clean your car when preparing to show it to potential buyers. This tip brought to you by www.finda.com.au

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017

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

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

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

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

Why not make sun-dried tomatoes in your oven or make your own beetroot slices for those summer barbecues or a delicious Beetroot Relish. You can stock up your pantry and save money on your weekly shop. Then enjoy the satisfying fruits of your labour.

WHAT TO PLANT

HERBS: plant basil, chives, coriander, fennel,

GROW: Rosellas make one of the most delicious jams.

lemongrass, mint, parsley, and tarragon .

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

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

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

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

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

standard Aerogard.

Bug-Repelling essential oils: Citronella, lemon eucalyptus, lemongrass, tea tree, peppermint, patchouli, cedarwood, lavender, cypress, rose geranium, rosemary, bergamot and lemon. ✰Lemon eucalyptus oil The most recommended and studied of the natural repellents goes by the trade name Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), which is extracted from lemon eucalyptus trees. A preferred DEET alternative, it can be mixed with cedarwood, lavender and rosemary essential oils. This combination is a good start to keep the pesky insects away. ✰Citronella oil Aside from various benefits like being an antibacterial and antiseptic, the insect repellent properties work on mosquitoes that carry yellow fever, lice, and fleas. Apply minimal

GO NATURAL: Find an alternative to chemicalbased insect repellents by making your own.

amounts of pure citronella oil to your forearms for up to two hours of protection. ✰Lavender oil Apply directly onto skin or as part of a formula, such as diluting it into olive oil, or put it in some apple cider vinegar. Also try combining it with vanilla extract, lemon juice and some distilled water. Shake up the combo and spray it on exposed skin.

More information via: www.diynatural.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wellbeing + Travel + living + Money

6513898as

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

Puzzles

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15

16

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

8 9

10

11

12

13 14 17

18

20

19

21

22

23

24

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

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

25

SUDOKU

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

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8 9

10

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.

16

S

17

18

22

T O T E S

E R E C T

R E S T S

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

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

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

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

How many words of four letters or more can you make? Each letter must be used only once and all words must contain the centre letter. There is at least one nine-letter word.

No words starting with a capital are allowed, no plurals ending in s unless the word is also a verb.

TODAY: Good 21 Very Good 29 Excellent 37

QUICK CROSSWORD

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

I L

SUDOKU

5x5

S T I L E

471

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

GK CROSSWORD

24

WORD GO ROUND

Y

S

FLITS RED RAM ONE TURN TOP SERVE HEPTAGONS

SOLUTIONS

WORD GO ROUND

A C

S

Note: more than one solution may be possible.

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

T P

S C

T

19

23

E S

T L

20 21

R

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

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

15

R

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

14

T T

12 13

2/9

5x5

A 11

Seniors 23

A S S E T

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24 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, September 25, 2017