Coffs & Clarence, May-June 2017

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2 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 29, 2017

In this edition

Feature: Christine Danton ......................................Page 3 Grey Nomads feature...............................Pages 13-20 Travel.................................................................Pages21-23 Wellbeing .....................................................Pages 24&25 Puzzles.........................................................Page 30

Contact us Editor Gail Forrer gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Executive Sue Germany sue.germany@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Phone: (02) 6650 2925. Suite 2, Ground Floor, 144-148 West Hight Street, Coffs Harbour, NSW, 2450.

Now 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 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.

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK GAIL FORRER

Group editor Seniors Newspapers network

tbeliefs associated with ther older body.

She presents onstage performances, when there are questions over any performance by a woman of a certain age, let alone one with body exposure.

But there you go, and rather than keeping quiet about it, Christine has taken up motivational speaking to spread the word about what is and what isn’t inappropriate ageing.

Last month, we featured the Eatons, a couple of academics in their 80s, who have written a book putting forth the idea of a new middle age.

Seventy-five, they say is middle age and old age about 20/30 years on.

They back up their premise, with plenty of

longevity statistics. In a sense they, too are disruptors as they challenge the traditional idea that 50 year old is way past middle age.

This Chair Rocks: A MANIFESTO AGAINST AGEISM by American author, Ashton Applewhite is another book that disputes conventional thinking. Applewhite writes: “The myth that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, plays out punishingly in many arenas.

Beliefs that older workers are not worth training because they are slow learners and computer-illiterate are stubbornly persistent, despite high marks from employers on both performance and skills (p.67), “Abundant data show that older workers are dependable, punctual, committed to quality, exhibit good judgment, have low absenteeism and accident rates, and are the most engaged of

all workers when offered the chance to grow and advance on the job.

Yet, because of ageism, employers constantly use age as a liability and set workers with decades of productive years ahead adrift.” (p.172).

How our generation ages is very different to other generations, yet often we are stuck with the same beliefs, prejudices, stereotypes that result in ageism.

An example of a brand new phenomenon is the “Grey Nomad” the retired generation who have departed from a quite life at home to seek out adventure, new knowledge and friendships on the road.

The “Grey Nomad’ is all about a curious spirit and of course the know-how to stay on the road.

I hope the profile, news and views in this edition, blow a fresh breath of air and disrupts the dust of ageism.

— Cheers Gail

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A SUCCESSFUL retirement is about more than just organising your money.

If you don’t manage the lifestyle challenges that retirement brings, you might be financially secure, but you may not be having much fun.

The secret to a happy and satisfying retirement is to appreciate that you’re not retiring from work – you’re retiring to the next stage of your life.

This next stage of your life is a blank page and you have dozens of opportunities that could fill this space.

TUNED UP FOR THE THIRD AGE PAUL McKEON Now is the time when you can do some or all of the things you wanted to do, but had to postpone due to work or family commitments.

Just relaxing and doing very little is fine for the first few months after leaving work.

However, if doing very little and just “going with

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If you want to have a happy and successful full or part time retirement, you need to be active and fully involved with life.

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Disruptors welcome!

This month our theme focuses on “Age Disruptors” – people who have, in one way or another challenged traditional perceptions of ageing.

I use the word “Disruptor” in the modern sense, as a noun with positive connotations.

Wizard entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson loves nothing more than a “disruptor” that is, a person who (often) through inventive means, challenges conventions.

Indeed his Virgin website virgin.com.au has a dedicated page to Virgin Disruptors and explains it as: “Virgin Disruptors – People Creating Change.

Virgin is all about inspiration, innovation and creating tangible change across business and the world.”

In this edition of Seniors, a Disruptor, is personified by our cover personality, Christine Danton. This 72-year-old is all about “disrupting”

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Monday, May 29, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 3

Bending through the glass ceiling of ageism Gail Forrer

CHRISTINE Danton is bending over backwards to convince us that ageing, just ain’t ageing – not the way it used to be anyway.

At 72 years’ young, Christine’s voice and viewpoints are stable and convincing. She stands firm as she challenges traditional thinking, but she ‘bends it like Beckham’ when she shows us why we should believe her.

Yet the truth is, when it comes to bending, Beckham wouldn’t come close to this amazing lady who has spent a lifetime performing as a contortionist and now into her seventh decade, has no intention of stopping.

Right now, the native South Australian who lives on 90 acres, by a lake and entertains regularly in the ‘The Spud Shed Barn Theatre’ on her property, is in America following an invitation to appear on a major television station.

The appearance is just one of the engagements that have acknowledged

72-year-old stretches her spine to extend an extraordinary timeline Christine’s unique skills and in particular their longevity. Christine sees it as a chance to break the glass ceiling of ageist attitudes.

Christine describes her amazing ability to fold into two, to master seemingly impossible physical positions as rather like doing yoga, a matter of training, and a refusal to stop doing what she loves.

“The same as yoga,” she said.

“You have to concentrate and focus on a pose.”

It is obvious that mind control has its part to play, as it harmonises with this incredibly elastic body. A human body that can stretch, unlock, roll and unroll in half with grace and suppleness borders on the freaky.

But Christine is far from an outlandish circus act.

Christine Danton showing her amazing flexibility.

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She describes herself as an artist performing a skilled craft that requires enormous dedication and training. When Christine developed her techniques, there were no schools teaching circus skills and contortionists were rare.

“I was the only one in Australia for many years,” she said.

Without a mentor, she went onto develop her own original material.

“I was driven to create,” she said.

She believes her natural gift may have been inherited from her mother, who ensured her children never missed a circus, and particularly enjoyed the acrobatic and trapeze acts. When Christine was about 4 and her sister Jo 2, she recalls her mother taking them into the backyard and showing them how to back bend with their hands on the floor, behind them – like a bridge.

“That was the moment, I understood that I knew that’s what I was going to do,” she said.

“And I never wavered.”

While there were no acrobatic lessons in the 1950s, there were dance classes and by 1956, at 13-years-old, her natural ability had gained her a two-year contract as a Channel 7 television dancer in the regular Tonight shows.

After that, at 17-years-old she made her

HOW DOES SHE DO IT! Christine Danton doing the splits.

way to Sydney and launched herself at the circus.

“It was a way to hone in and perfect the act,” she said.

With this experience behind her, she went onto perform in cabaret shows in Asia and Europe.

She said she never expected to be performing at this stage of her life, but in a way she had no choice.

She said she went to retire in her mid-50s, but felt like a blob, and went back to her training.

These days Christine says she has adapted to her own body constraints with a training regime that includes three sessions a week, together with swimming.

And that’s the key to her philosophy.

“Don’t give up – adapt,” she recommends.

“Things do start to deteriorate,” she admits.

“Age can bring body issues and we need to

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adapt to new issues.” ❚ Besides her performances in the “The Spud Shed – Barn Theatre,” Christine plays contract bridge and is a keen photographer.

She is also an in-demand motivational

speaker and works under the business name – Bending the Rules.

Contact details: email: cdanton@chariot.net.au and facebook www.facebook.com/ christine.danton.35.

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seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 29, 2017

Age of inquiring mind ❝

Dr Rathore’s academic work ranges from rams to religion

resistance in livestock to the problems of sacred cows. He is now writing books on religion.

“I’m a jack of all trades,” he said.

He launched his book, Impact of Christianity on Indian and Australian Societies, in Coffs Harbour recently with the help of his long-time friend, former federal MP Garry Nehl, and Mr Nehl’s successor as the Nationals Member for Cowper, Luke Hartsuyker.

Although he admires Jesus and says Buddhism appeals to him, Ashok Rathore describes himself as a sceptic.

“I’m an atheist and the book I’m writing is very critical,” he said “I call myself a religious critic. “ I have worked with people of many different religions and no one is relatively superior over another.

“The world needs a fellowship of faiths with a common goal for a global ethic.”

His new book is the first

LESSONS OF A LIFETIME: Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister and Member for Cowper Luke Hartsuyker (left) and his predecessor as the member for Cowper, former deputy speaker Garry Nehl (right), help Professor Ashok Rathore launch his book, Impact of Christianity on Indian and Australian Societies.

PHOTO: BELINDA SCOTT

in a planned series of three, one of which will look at Aboriginal Dreamtime beliefs.

Dr Rathore’s first doctorate, on sterility in rams, was completed in little more than two years.

He said his recent doctorate on theology was

much more complicated and took him eight years to complete, working with five different supervisors.

He has worked for organisations like the NSW Department of Agriculture and National Parks and Wildlife Service and has been a

consultant for the World Bank.

The foundation director of the Animal Welfare and Veterinary Science Institute at the Allahabad Agricultural Institute in Uttar Pradesh, Ashok has also pursued interests in cooking and hospitality.

He and his wife Margaret ran an Indian restaurant for years and had it ranked the best in the Blue Mountains and western NSW and number two statewide.

After Margaret’s death in 2000, Ashok returned to India, planning to become a sadhu – a religious ascetic – but said he found it not a good fit and returned to academia.

Today he divides his time between lecturing at various Indian universities and pursuing his wide-ranging interests.

Born into an Arya-Samaji family (followers of a Hindu reform movement), he attended a Catholic high school in India and was the first person from his small village to graduate from high school.

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ASHOK Rathore has an unusual hobby: collecting degrees.

It is a hobby that is even more unusual for a man who turns 82 on June 14, but Dr Rathore likes to think outside the square.

He does not believe in restricting his inquiries to one narrow speciality or even one branch of knowledge.

This spry researcher, with degrees from universities across three continents, believes you should keep actively learning and teaching about whatever interests you until you die – and he has plans to publish a book every year for the next 18 years.

The Indian-born scientist moved to Australia from the US in 1965 to carry out research on animal genetics at the University of New England in Armidale.

He has since written papers on topics from female empowerment to information technology and from disease

He has since written papers on topics from female empowerment to information technology

Coffs and Clarence

Monday, May 29, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

How does she do it?

Seniors 5

A ripe old age won’t stop Bessie and her work VITAL is the word that comes to mind when describing Glenreagh’s Bessie Webb, whose 95th birthday falls on May 29.

Bessie can out-talk, out-think and outwit most people half her age.

When the Senior calls in, Bessie has the tray of her station wagon loaded with flowers to take to the Anglican church and is poised for a full day of activities.

But she takes the time to offer her visitor tea, freshly baked biscuits and the view of the river from her garden.

Glenreagh’s historian and unofficial mayor has a warmth, a delight in people and a keen sense of fun that makes it easy to understand why she is so widely liked as well as appreciated.

She takes as much interest in teaching a naughty little boy to play

dominos without cheating as she does in pursuing a government grant for her latest project.

Bessie’s married surname – Webb – seems appropriate, because the threads of her work stretch right across her small country community.

She takes to heart her father and husband’s dictum that your community has to be a better place because you live there.

Bessie is the editor of Glenreagh’s monthly newsletter The Link, now also on Facebook, as well as the co-ordinator of the Glenreagh Memorial Museum.

Since 1983 she has been the secretary of the Glenreagh School of Arts, which shares local social hub status with the Golden Dog Hotel.

Bessie worked to establish the museum in

1987, with the building work that made it possible overseen by her late husband Les, an engineer.

It involved her working with three different local councils: Ulmarra, Pristine Waters and Clarence Valley, as well as other levels of government.

Her interest in family and local history was sparked before her retirement, which gave her more opportunity to pursue her writing, which extends to poetry.

The author of Glenreagh: A Town of Promise and a history of the Keevers family, as well as other local and family histories, Bessie has even travelled overseas researching history.

She said she told her children “they will never die wondering where they come from and who their ancestors are”.

“Put a pen in my hand

BUSY BESSIE: Editor Bessie Webb at work on the next edition of The Link, Glenreagh's monthly newsletter.

PHOTO: BELINDA SCOTT

and I start writing,” Bessie said.

In spite of her success, Bessie said she had always been selfconscious about her writing because she had only gone to the small bush school at Tallawudjah Creek and left at 14.

In 2013 she received an OAM for services to the community of Glenreagh.

Those services are exhaustive and exhausting.

They include the Glenreagh Timber Festival; Glenreagh

Markets; the Progress Association; Glenreagh Creative Group; town beautification committee; the Anglican Church; the parish council; historical society; Lions club; Combined Pensioners and Superannuants, and numerous other organisations and endeavours She was one of the founders of the Glenreagh Creative Group, which has met every Wednesday for the past 30 years.

“When I got to 80, I asked the dear Lord for another 20 years,

because I had so much to do,” Bessie said.

“I was too busy to go.”

She is still adding new interests, like the local Lions club she joined five years ago.

Among her admirers is federal politician Luke Hartsuyker, who cites Bessie’s invention of the “cakeless cake stall” as a brilliant fundraising idea.

Supporters simply donate the money they would have spent to make the cake. Bessie’s cakeless cake stall helped upgrade the toilets at Glenreagh School of Arts.

6 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 29, 2017

Filling the nest at 50 A happy and healthy lifestyle will suit parenting at any age Ward, a brilliant man, said he did not foresee any difficulties but I did have an amniocentesis and ultrasound in Brisbane.”

The results helped her relax and enjoy her pregnancy.

Jacqui said she used no drugs but credits her kinesiology mentor for improving her physical health.

“She has worked with a lot of older women and she had a child at 48,” Jacqui said.

“I’m healthier now than I was in my 20s and 30s.

“There’s a lot of older mums out there, but they don’t talk about it.”

Jacqui understands why they are quiet.

She appeared on a television program and was featured in a women’s magazine talking about her experiences.

The public response was not always positive.

“There was flak and negativity out there, but I chose not to read it,’ Jacqui said.

“I know I’ve put myself

ALL TOGETHER: Glen, Jacqui and one-hour-old Flynn.

out there, but I have done it to give people hope that miracles do happen.

“Change your thoughts and you change your world.”

She said one woman in Port Macquarie, now 70, had given birth at 49 but had lied about her age

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AT AN age when most mothers are contemplating an empty nest, babysitting grandchildren or thinking about travelling, Jacqui (Jarratt) Barnett was picking out baby clothes.

The Coffs Harbour grandmother of three discovered she was pregnant again at the age of 50.

She is one of a small but increasing number of women who are giving birth much later in life than was once usual In Jacqui and partner Glen’s case, they had not taken part in any fertility treatments and had not planned a baby, but had not used any form of contraception. “ I had a couple of miscarriages earlier,’ Jacqui said.

“And we were talking about fostering.”

Jacqui said the pregnancy was uncomplicated and their son Flynn was born via a normal delivery.

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because she was afraid of people’s reactions.

Flynn has meant some new joys – he is Glen’s first child, while Jacqui’s grandchild Sage is just nine months older than Flynn and the pair are very close.

It has also meant some

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

adjustments.

“I’d like to do some things, but I’ve had to take a step back,” Jacqui said “Travel ads for river cruises in Europe don’t show toddlers.

“I sometimes find it hard fitting in at playgroup with younger mums,

wondering how do I connect?

“But I’m lucky my job has given me the opportunity to mix with people of different ages, shapes and sizes – attitude is everything.”

Jacqui has been involved in the lives of hundreds of women in her role as a fitness instructor and personal trainer for more than 25 years.

In 2010 she published Unfamiliar Mirrors, a book of past, present and future reflections that illustrates women’s problems with body image and self-esteem.

It is a topic that is particularly important to Jacqui, who once battled anorexia and a poor self-image and now has a special interest in teenage fitness and self-esteem.

She wrote the book to help other women facing similar problems.

“The women’s fitness industry is a bit superficial and I now know so much more about working on the inside and changing your thoughts as well as your physical fitness,” she said.

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Coffs and Clarence

Monday, May 29, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Building a family love

Seniors 7

Children’s appreciation for dad’s achievements

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“They were trained to me, to my voice,” Bert said.

Tammy said they worked hard on the farm but had fun as well.

“There’d be a knock on the door at 9pm and half of Karangi would be there, saying: ‘We’ve decided on your place for a sing-song,’ ” Tammy said.

Bert said he was happy to be in the audience but was not a performer.

“If I’m building and I hit my finger with a hammer, then I’m a singer,’ Bert said.

“That’s the only time.”

At one point, Bert and Eddie Fisher were cultivating 10ha of bananas spread over several properties in the Orara Valley.

Bert worked his own land for most of his life, apart from the Second World War years when he was an army mechanic in Bougainville and other Pacific theatres of war.

“I went to Sydney to train for the army – a motor mechanic was my main job,” Bert said.

He worked on all kinds of vehicles.

“If they were not going, I fixed them,” he said.

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CLOSE-KNIT: Bert Fisher with two of his children, daughter Tammy, who works at his nursing home, and son Eddie, who lives close by. INSET: Bert Fisher at the last Anzac Day he was able to walk in.

MAIN PHOTO: BELINDA SCOTT

In March 2016, Bert and his wife Doreen (nee Jerrett) celebrated 66 years of marriage at their

home, just one month before she passed away.

Three months later, vascular problems following a stroke meant Bert was no longer able to walk, with his short-term memory also affected, so he moved into the Coffs Harbour Nursing Centre.

He worked until he

seniors

could no longer walk.

“One of the main reasons for bringing him here was so I could keep a close eye on him”, Tammy said.

She has worked for 17 years at the centre, which was recently acquired by ASX-listed ACSAG Japara Healthcare.

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trades.

He turned his hand to whatever needed doing – farming, building houses and sheds, demolishing buildings, repairing vehicles, milking cows, raising pigs and cattle, growing bananas, tomatoes and cucumbers, and operating his own sawmill. He made banana cases and props as well as cutting timber for houses.

“My first ever building job was at Karangi School, building the toilet,” Bert laughed.

He later worked on a number of major Coffs Harbour building and demolition projects.

Bert built his own house and later built houses for each of his four children.

He is now a great-grandfather.

Parenting and building did not always sit easily together.

Eddie recalls sitting on a plank nailed across the rafters of a house under construction so his dad could keep an eye on the youthful escape artist while he was working on the roof.

“It was quite high up and I was about two years old at the time,” Eddie said.

Bert pointed out he had stayed on the plank.

Bert was known as an animal whisperer, but he said it was no secret.

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BERT Fisher relies on a wheelchair to move around these days.

It is a far cry from the days when he swung nimbly across roof frames and trusses as he built homes for every member of his family.

It is even further away from the days he spent crawling under army trucks in tropical heat, repairing engines to keep Australian troops on the move through the Pacific islands during the Second World War. But his children do not forget.

Bert, who turned 94 in February, now lives in Coffs Harbour Residential Care, with family close by.

Bert’s daughter Tammy Morrison is a nursing assistant at the care home and she keeps an eye on her dad, while son Eddie lives nearby and keeps in touch.

“Dad taught me everything about building, growing and mechanical work, and we’ve taught our boys,” said Eddie, while Tammy said her father also taught her husband Doug.

Now they are repaying that debt with love and care.

Born on a property at Karangi, which has been in the same family for 100 years and which he still owns, Bert Fisher became a jack of all

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8 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 29, 2017

Live and let’s save BE THRIFTY AND THRIVE NICKY NORMAN Single-use plastic bags have been used in Australia for 40 years, so it’s time to ban the bag or in the meantime, use an alternative.

■ What can we do: ★Try and take the plastic bags or paper bags you have, back to the supermarket to reuse. ★Not all your fruit and vegetables need a plastic bag, they can go straight into the trolley. ★Some retailers save cardboard boxes, so use these to pack your groceries. ★Some major supermarkets have calico or “green” bags available for sale at a very small price.

These bags can be kept in the car and used

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CHEAP EATS, NO TRUFFLES CHRISTINE PERKINS AUTUMN is well and truly here so we start thinking of warm, comfort foods.

Soup comes to mind as well as casseroles.

One-pot meals save a great deal of time and effort.

Don’t forget the slow cooker as it is always a great way to cook and save time, just put it on and forget.

Be creative – add and remove ingredients if they are not to your liking. If you like mushrooms and don’t like eggplant swap them as both are high in moisture – the recipe should stay the same.

Herbs and spices are a great way to jazz up a one-pot meal.

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every time you shop. ★Bio-degradable bags.

These bags are usually made from plastic and break down into small pieces. Those small pieces become microplastics.

The best alternative is bags made with oxo-biodegradable plastic.

Using plastic shopping bags to line our garbage bins means that they still end up into landfill.

■ What do we use: ★Newspaper: Most bins are tall and cube shape, so a newspaper can easily be folded, origami style, into the bin to line the bottom and the sides. ★Nothing: the only things that should be going into your bins is waste that cannot be recycled, composted, or reused somewhere else.

These methods may not suit everyone but so long as you can reduce the use, you are helping our environment.

At SCCA we understand that an organisation’s strength is in its people.

So we’re very pleased to be participating in a ‘first’ for the Coffs Harbour area, a partnership with training organisation Novaskill addressing the growing need for high quality, person centred care for our residents. It can be challenging, especially in regional areas to keep up with the demand for skilled staff.

We need carers who have specific skills and qualities to deliver the standard of care we require for our residents, and many of these develop over time.

The program entails on site training at Mater Christi Aged Care Facility resulting in job-ready graduates, who already have “hands on” work experience.

Trainer Sharon Bruce says “The feedback has been fantastic. The students gain valuable insight and the residents have learned the student’s names and take a keen interest in their progress.”

SCCA - it’s a great story.

See you next month!

Michelle

TIME TO WARM UP: Enjoy a curry laksa, full of flavour.

If you have a few in store like mixed herbs, thyme, sage, rosemary, dried chilli, cumin, ground coriander seed or curry powder you can enhance the flavour of a basic meal and make it special with little effort.

Don’t forget to taste and season.

It’s good to look in the cupboard and get ideas from what you already have instead of buying more ingredients.

Writing a list of what is

in your cupboard is a great way to save money.

We tend to forget and go and buy the same items then get home and find there are already three bags of carrots. When that happens, you can always make carrot soup.

Seriously, if you have a list of what’s in your cupboard and pantry you will be less likely to double up.

Think before you shop and be creative.

Views from My Office

CEO Deb Ryan

We are currently preparing for the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) from 1st July 2017, whilst wading through the complexity of recent aged care reforms.

These systems are complicated and it is a confusing time for both clients and providers.

The introduction of client choice of provider, in both aged care and disability services, has resulted in growth for CCO. Clients are choosing us as their provider due to our sound reputation for quality and innovation.

We value our clients as partners and work with them to achieve positive wellness outcomes that enable increased independence, and increased community participation for as long as possible. We continue to offer not only quality services at an affordable price, but value added opportunities for our clients.

Clients should consider the following when choosing a provider Are they local Do they offer real value for money Do they have the experience, knowledge and skills you need 6528631ac

AUSTRALIAN’S use around six billion plastic bags per year, 3.3 billion of which are supermarket plastic bags.

Managing director of Clean Up Australia, Terrie-Ann Johnson said 80 million plastic bags end up in Australia’s litter stream. “Think about the poor animal in the marine environment that chokes or starves because it’s got a gutful of non-nutritious material, it’s a horrible, horrible death” she said.

The biggest problem with plastic bags is that they do not readily break down in the environment, with estimates for the time it takes them to decompose ranging from 20 to 1000 years.

Currently, ACT, NT, Tasmania and SA have bans in place and Queensland will join them from July 2018. NSW, Victoria and WA are currently not committed to the ban.

Top tips for an efficient kitchen

Are they ethical Community Care Options – Coffs Harbour Business of the Year 2016 We are, we do, we can. We Care.

02 6650 2000 www.cco.net.au

6452999ah

Time to ‘ban the bag’

Coffs and Clarence

Monday, May 29, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 9

Clarence Care + Support for Seniors Health

A word from Kerry Little +

+

Manager, Care + Support Services

Karen Waterhouse Home care senior program co-ordinator

HELLO to everyone Winter is here and it is time to rug up and take care of yourself. This month our senior programs co-ordinator Karen gives great information on immunisation. It is better to get this done early so you are protected.

The budget was announced last month and there was definitely good news for aged care services in general. The Commonwealth Home Support Program, which includes all the basic services, will be funded until 2020, My Aged Care will get some funding to make improvements and the government is looking at developing a Workforce program. This is necessary as all services have increasing demand as the population ages and therefore more staff are

Be wise and immunise Why should you get the flu shot each year?

Did you know that the influenza virus is constantly changing? Recent research has also discovered that the effectiveness of the vaccine does diminish over time. Therefore it is best to maintain your annual vaccination program to ensure your full coverage.

You can receive your flu shot from your local doctor, participating pharmacies and other immunisation providers. The flu vaccination is free for people who are classed as high risk.

This can include: ■ Persons over the age of 65.

■ Persons who identify as ATSI. ■ Persons who suffer with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease.

■ Persons who are pregnant.

Prevention is definitely the best cure as colds and influenza can easily be spread from person to person through infected droplets in the air or via our hands.

Good hygiene is the single most important way to prevent the spread and protect you from these harmful bugs. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, particularly after touching your nose or mouth and before handling any food items. Sneeze or cough into a tissue and dispose of this immediately.

Signs and symptoms of a cold and the flu are very similar. These can include coughing, fevers, sore throat, sneezing, blocked or runny nose, congestion and general muscle aches and pains.

The main difference is the symptoms are milder for a cold and tend to only last a few days. The symptoms of influenza tend to be more severe and last a lot longer.

The recommended treatment for influenza remains unchanged.

■ Stay in bed.

■ Be sure to drink plenty of fluids.

■ Paracetamol to assist with the control of fevers, aches and pains.

■ Avoid exposure to dust, smoke and fumes.

■ Avoid alcohol.

Always remember to consult with your doctor if the symptoms get worse. Particularly if you have a severe headache, difficulties breathing or you are coughing up coloured mucous.

needed. In conjunction with the increase in funding for the NDIS, we need to plan and train staff in readiness for all the jobs that will come on board.

Staff in aged care are required to have a Certificate 3 at a minimum as well as most services providing specialist training in other areas. This could be dementia, manual handling, medication assistance, nursing, palliative care.

This takes time and experience to get the skills required to have quality staff. Clarence Care + Support provides mandatory training for staff annually as well as a wide range of other topics throughout the year to keep our staff highly skilled and up to date.

For further information, phone (02) 6645 0400.

Lower Clarence Arts & Crafts Festival SAVE THE DATES: Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 7–9.

SINCE 1966, Lower Clarence Arts & Crafts Association has continually staged an annual Open Competitive Exhibition. From 2000–2005, we upgraded the exhibition to an Arts & Crafts Expo showcasing all arts and crafts including poetry, writing, demonstrations, performing arts and entertainment.

Thanks to many generous sponsors it was the largest arts and crafts exhibition on the North Coast, very popular with both entrants and visitors. From 2006–2015, the arts festival was held at various schools throughout Maclean, Yamba and Gulmarrad. In 2015, interest grew, and last year we expanded into the beautiful Maclean Showgrounds, where refurbishments to facilities have begun. Now work is in progress to present our Clarence River Arts Festival and the 52nd annual Open Art, Crafts & Quilt Exhibition.

Sections and prize money have been increased to make this festival one not to be missed by entrants and visitors.

The prize: Fay Boyd’s Fine Art School Scholarship. To be awarded to the most outstanding still life painting in any medium. Value

$600. The scholarship will entitle the winner to attend a five-day workshop at Fay Boyd’s Fine Art School, Grafton, next year during the Plunge Festival.

– Alison Merrin, festival organiser

Lower Clarence Arts & Crafts Association Inc. 52nd Annual Open Arts, Crafts & Quilt Exhibition 2017

Maclean Show Ground

00 $12,0 of worth ney! mo prize

including

LCACA OPEN FINE ART AWARD of $2000 Open to entries in art quilts, photography and all sections of fine art.

It’s time to get

Multi award winning Mareeba Aged Care

creative Fine Art, Sculpture, Photography, Patchwork & Quilts, Jewellery Wearable Art, Creative Needlework Woodwork, Craft, Youth & Junior Art Closing Date for entries Friday 23 June 5pm

Entry Forms are available at Ferry Park Gallery or www.clarenceriverartsfestival.com.au

www.clarencecareandsupport.com.au

State-of-the-art living and respite care.

24-hour nursing care and support.

Call us on 6645 2966 to arrange a visit.

Enter our 2017 Exhibition

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Over

Fri 7 - Sun 9 July

Phone: 02 6645 0400

Mareeba Aged Care 6 Rannoch Avenue, Maclean, 2463 Phone: 02 6645 2966, Email: admi min@mareebaagedcare.com.au Internet: w ww ww.mareebaagedcare.com.au MAR059_0217

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10 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 29, 2017

Come meet our team Local dental team creates better experience for patients

ROGER Sharpe Dental is Coffs Harbour’s original dental practice established in the 1950s by Dr Roy Riddle.

Since then, Roger Sharpe Dental has continued to provide trustworthy dental services to the Coffs Harbour community for more than 30 years.

Staff have created a warm, relaxed, safe environment that also offers the best of technology.

The firm provides car park access from Earl St, disabled parking and wheelchair access to the building. The wellqualified, experienced team provides the highest quality dental care in a prompt and efficient manner.

The practice is fully ADA accredited and all dentists are members of the Australian Dental Association. Roger Sharpe Dental, offers a range of dental services and welcome clients of all ages, particularly senior

citizens.

It can provide seniors with a 20% discount on all treatment and can assist seniors card holders and those covered by, NSW Health Bulk Bill Vouchers, HICAPS Health Insurance and Veterans’ Affairs.

Dentists: Dr Roger Sharpe graduated from Bristol University with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery specialising in minor oral surgery. He gained valuable dentistry experience, working in the UK for 10 years, before migrating to Australia.

Dr Sharpe has been servicing Coffs Harbour now for more than 30 years.

Dr Zorem Harvey has worked at Roger Sharpe Dental since 2010. She graduated in 1998 with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery. Zorem completed her Masters in Dental Surgery in 2004 and has two oublished scientific papers to her name.

After becoming a registered dentist in New

QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED: Dr Roger Sharpe (back row, left) and his dental team.

Zealand, Zorem worked in New Zealand for 4½ years then later travelled to Australia, where she fell in love with the beauty and moderate temperature of Coffs Harbour and decided to settle and start a family.

Dr Simon Sweet begun

working at Roger Sharpe Dental in 2014. He studied dentistry at the world famous Guy’s Hospital in London. He also worked as a scientist there and at Glasgow Dental Hospital where he was awarded a PhD. His patients love his

friendly, easy-going attitude and he can put even the most nervous person at ease.

Simon is experienced in all aspects of dentistry, including adult orthodontics with Invisalign (invisible braces) and in placing

dental implants and keyhole (mini) implants.

He is fully accredited by the Australian Society for Implant Dentistry and is a member of the Australian Society for Conservative Implant Dentistry (keyhole implants). ADVERTORIAL

We will treat you like a member of our Family ROGER SHARPE

At

DENTAL PRACTICE D

Our Service include: • General examinations and cleaning • X-rays and OPGS • Crown, Veneer and bridge work • Tooth whitening • Root canal treatment • Dentures & Repairs • Extractions • Implants

Dr Zorem Harvey Moved from NZ to Coffs Harbour and fell in love with our climate

for seniors Dr Simon Sweet World Class experience in dentistry

SENIOR CARD Welcome here “Prevention is better than cure”.

Make an appointment today.

Open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 8.30am to 5.00pm.

Thursday 8.30am - 6.00pm EMERGENCY appointments welcome

77 Albany Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | Ph:

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Dr Roger Sharpe Practicing in Coffs Harbour for over 30 years

20% off

(02) 6652 8344

Coffs and Clarence

Monday, May 29, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Workshop for older drivers

THE Road Safety of Older Road Users program has been developed in response to figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, which state that people aged 65 and over constitute Australia’s fastestgrowing age group.

Seniors are invited to attend these free workshops which offer advice and safety tips to help people aged 65 or over make safer choices when driving, riding, walking or using a mobility scooter.

The free workshops are there to offer relevant information to help those who may be experiencing changes to mobility or helping a family member plan for the future.

❝

The topics to be covered include: ■ How vision impairment and dementia can affect our abilities as road users.

■ Developing safer driving habits.

■ Pedestrian safety.

■ Driver licensing at 75 and 85 years.

■ Mobility scooters.

The next workshop in your area will be: Wednesday, June 14 from 9–11am.

Location: Grafton Community Function Centre, 59 Duke Street, Grafton.

For further information and to book, phone 6622 1903 or email: info@acecolleges.edu. au.

Helping older road users stay safe and independent.

The free workshops are there to offer relevant information to help those who may be experiencing changes to mobility...

Seniors 11

A hands-on rehab and physio clinic COFFS Coast Sports Physiotherapy clinics are multi-disciplinary and provide a comprehensive range of rehabilitation and physiotherapy services – such as orthopaedic rehabilitation, general injury treatment, sports and workers compensation injury rehabilitation, Department of Veterans Affairs, enhanced primary care and hydrotherapy.

Our other complimentary and quality services include radial shockwave therapy, podiatry, acupuncture, myotherapy, remedial massage, exercise physiology, pilates classes, dry needling, physical capacity assessments, real time ultrasound and traditional Chinese medicine.

Our focus is providing a “hands-on” manual approach which can include soft tissue and joint mobilisation, electrotherapies, specific strengthening/stability exercises, pilates

COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES: Aiming to get your injury, condition or rehabilitation on track.

exercises, hydrotherapy, stretches and progression of activities for return to normal everyday activities/sporting pursuits. We offer Exos thermoplastic based braces for support and

immobilisation and a wide variety of bracing products, cam walker boots and physio products for sale and hire.

Coffs Coast Sports Physiotherapy provides comprehensive surgical

rehabilitation for tendon repair and debridement, joint reconstruction and replacement, for example: neck and back, shoulder, hand, hip, knee and ankle surgeries.

ADVERTORIAL

Helping the Elderly Quality care for all ages All sporting injuries Neck & back injuries Orthopaedic surgery rehab Tendon injuries Radial shockwave therapy Casting, taping & bracing

La-z-boy lift chairs from $999

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King Single Domino Adjustable Beds $1999 Stockists of Pillows, Sheets, Quilt Covers and Quality MANCHESTER

Furniture and Manchester

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Doctors referrals

Woolgoolga 3 Fawcett St

6654 2477 Coffs Harbour 78 Albany St

6651 9622

EPC & DVA

www.ccsp.net.au

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12 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 29, 2017

Community GRAFTON PROBUS CLUB INC

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

The deadline for the June issue is June 14.

Email Nicky or Chris at communitynotes@ seniorsnewspaper.com.au

VIEW CLUBS

Voice, Interests and Education of Women.

Supporting the Smith Family learning for life students.

■ KORORA

WE MEET on the first Tuesday of every month at C.eX at 11am. Our next meeting will be held on June 6. Come and join us for lunch, interesting guest speakers and make new friends. For more information and bookings, phone 6653 7078.

The Easter Bunny made a surprise visit on Good Friday to Taloumbi Gardens. Juanita Dennison received a special hug.

TALOUMBI GARDENS COFFS HARBOUR ELIZABETH Maguire and other residents have been busy knitting beanies to put into Samaritan boxes that are given to underprivileged children in overseas countries. Since starting, they have knitted about 50 beanies. The Easter Bunny made a

surprise visit on Good Friday. Residents and staff hosted the Biggest Afternoon Tea on May 26 with raffles, trading table and delicious cakes, all for a gold coin donation.

WARATAH RESPITE SERVICES

WE DELIVER a day respite program in Woolgoolga for

GETTING CRAFTY FOR CHARITY: Elizabeth Maguire, and other residents at Taloumbi Gardens, have been knitting beanies.

the aged, frail and younger people with disabilities each Wednesday and Friday from 8.30am–4pm. The service known as Seagulls is located at the CWA Hall, 21 Beach St, Woolgoolga.

The activity program is designed to enhance a participant’s independence and has a focus on re-ablement and

wellbeing. At Seagulls we have fun and socialise, play games, go on monthly outings and build friendship. Morning tea and a cooked lunch is provided. For enquiries phone the Waratah Respite Centre on 02 6648 3610 or the Seagulls co-ordinator on 02 6654 0766 on Wednesday or Friday.

A MYSTERY bus tour was held in place of our May midday lunch.

Lunch was held at the Harwood Hotel where we congratulated Corky and Gloria Caldwell on achieving 70 years of marriage. There will be a social barbecue held at the Gateway Village Lifestyle for June. Our June meeting will be the mid-year luncheon at the Copmanhurst Hotel. Fay See entertained us with a summary of her life in Grafton.

Following years of community work, Fay now enjoys time she calls Fay time. Warwick Foster, from Clarence Community Transport, gave us a very interesting and informative talk on this wonderful service.

Interested in Probus?

Phone our secretary on 6642 5160 for more information.

Supported by

Call us about

RETAIL MEALS

Available to the ge public aged un neral der 65

Meals on Wheels Grafton & Iluka work closely with the other aggencies in the local area s supplying services to the aged and disadvantaged.

Proudly not for Profit - Serving the people of the Coffs Coast Region

FREE DELIVERY OR PICK UP • Great choice of freshly made salads. Frozen & Hot Meals • Delivered daily or weekly by Volunteers who care.

If you’re not well or would just like a delicious and nutritious meal delivered to your door or even set out on your table ready for you to eat.

Please call us if you know somebody who needs a good meal

ILUKA

Westward Park Bacon Street Grafton

54 Spenser Street Iluka NSW 2466

✆ Call 6642 3879

✆ Call 6646 6742

Conditions Apply

Coffs Coast Meals on Wheels Community Village 22 Earl St, Coffs Harbour Ph: 6648 3600

Chill Out Cafe is a community Cafe and attracts a wide range of diners.

Open Mon to Fri at the Community Village Coffs and staffed by younger people with disabilities from Coffs Support Service where they gain the opportunity to get into the work force.

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GRAFTON

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Volunteers Also Welcome

CALL 6648 3600

Monday, May 29, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

advertising feature

Coffs and Clarence

Seniors 13

14 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 29, 2017

GREY NOMADS

Be curious and explore life far off the well-beaten path Hello travellers, This year’s edition of our dedicated Grey Nomads feature is jam-packed full of colourful stories that will surely inspire you to veer off the beaten path to a special camping site, travel solo or get up close and personal in Australia’s wildlife parks.

A huge factor in a successful trip is precise planning and preparation. As the old saying goes: "Foretold forewarned " and this certainly applies to caravanning. Caravan towing

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK GAIL FORRER

Group editor Seniors Newspapers network

courses rate just as highly as ensuring your home security and packing sufficient camping materials.

For instance, RV parking can be a nightmare, and towing requires plenty of skills. If you are not sure, or are feeling a little daunted, it’s a good idea to learn the tricks of the trade before

starting the trip. There are a number of driving school lessons available including RACQ’s popular Caravan and Trailer Towing Workshop, which will equip you with the knowledge and skills to safely tow a caravan, horse float, goods trailer or whatever other type of recreational trailer you plan on towing.

In this edition, we talk about reverse parking and the best way to achieve a painless and perfect park.

I trust you enjoy the read and perhaps try a night out with the big animals!

Happy trails to you, Gail

10 best things to take on the road Christine Perkin

■ 1. CAMPS AUSTRALIA WIDE 9

ke a COOL OFF: Ta refreshing dip.

Must-have Camps Australia Manual is probably the most useful item you will buy for your trip, which includes maps for all over Australia and it is always safe to have hard copies of maps just in case

BE AMAZED VISIT THE CHARLEVILLE COSMOS CENTRE & OBSERVATORY WHERE THE STARS SHINE

Astronomy by day Meteorites displays

you can’t get a signal for your phone or GPS. You can use the map as a way of mapping your trip as well so you know where you have been and where you want to go. A GPS is also a necessity to help get where you want to go. Go www.campsaustraliawide.com for details.

■ 2. JOURNAL

Writing where you have been and what you did is a great way to keep track of your trip. When you move to a different location you don’t always remember where and what you have experienced.

Great way to reminisce down the track with your journal.

■ 3. CAMERA

If you have a phone with good quality pics or a camera for the higher resolution pics, either is a must.

■ 4. MULTI-FUNCTION CHARGERS

■ 6. WASHING BUCKET

You can buy a cheap white bucket with a lid make sure the lid is tight and fill halfway with water a bit of washing powder and fill with clothes so they can move around and when you are on the road let the motion of the road do the work for you. When you stop, drain and rinse and dry as per normal. Clothes horse is a handy clothes line.

■ 7. BBQ

Either a wood or gas lidded BBQ can be very handy to cook a roast, veggies etc., outside the van/RV.

■ 8. BIKE

Bikes are a great way to see small towns and take a bike tour. If you are in a RV you can be limited to travel once you set up your camp and you need something down the shops that are a few kms away hop on a bike and do a bit of exercise at the same time. Saves having to pack up.

■ 9. SATELLITE TV SYSTEM

Let’s face it, you need a charger for everything these days, from your phone to laptop to tablet and kindle to list a few. If you have a multi-charging station you can charge multiple items at once and not have to run around trying to find the right charger. Save space and time.

For the TV watcher, the Satellite TV is a fantastic addition to your trip. You can watch good quality tele out in the middle of nowhere. Sat Plus call 07 5443 5517 or 07 5443 5513 or email info@satplus.com.au

■ 5. FIRST AID KIT

■ 10. SPARE SET OF KEYS

Vital to have one of these as you can’t always be in the right place at the right time. If you wear hearing aids, it’s good idea to take a little emergency kit with extra batteries and tubes and don’t forget your drying kit.

Very important to have spare keys. If you lose them out in the middle of nowhere you would be in big trouble. Not always easy to get replacement, and when you do, you will probably have to wait for the keys to arrive, which can be costly.

SSun viewing i i bby dday

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL

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Coffs and Clarence

Monday, May 29, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 15

GREY NOMADS

Follow the spa trail

and relax

LUXURIATE your way across Australia as you enjoy relaxing, recuperating or repairing your tired body in mineral and artesian baths.

Spa Trekking is the latest travel fad that really should have taken off a long time ago.

Imagine arriving into town, loaded down with travel aches and pains, and being able to slide into a natural experience that will probably have you purring with relief by the end of a session.

Whether it’s the soothing minerals or the outback surrounds that draws people in, hot springs and mineral baths seem to be the ultimate source of relaxation.

Geothermal and natural mineral waters are believed to have effective physical and mental benefits.

They are used in many locations around the world for therapeutic reasons as users enjoy the natural healing process of soaking in a pure experience which contains various concentrations of minerals.

Visiting these spas is becoming a popular tourist activity for people wanting authentic health and lifestyle experiences based around geothermal and natural mineral water resources and which may include such services as saunas, mud baths, hydrotherapy and massage.

Armed with Steve Lambert’s Great Thermal Way, grey nomads can spend their travel time moving from one spa to another; such as – ■ Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs in Tasmania, ■ Francois Peron National Park Homestead near Monkey Mia, West Australia, and ■ El Questro in Kununurra in the heart of the Kimberleys, ■ Innot Hot Springs in Queensland’s Atherton Tablelands, ■ Peninsular Hot Springs on Mornington Peninsular in Victoria, ■ NSW’s Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre, Hot Springs Pools & Units, and Gwydir Carapark Motel & Thermal Pools, ■ North of Moree at Boomi’s Co-Op Hot Artesian Spa Pool & Caravan Park, ■ Lightning Ridge’s Bore Baths in western NSW. “There are 50 currently identified hot springs, bore baths and natural springs in Australia,” Mr Lambert writes.

“They are detailed in this revised new edition which also includes updated and new material.

“This includes information pertaining to the early pioneers and the drilling methods they used to tap this great resource.”

Mr Lambert’s book is available online through www.greatthermalway.com.

Lightning Ridge Artesian Bore Baths

Do as little or as much as you like Take the time to RELAX, RE-ENERGISE and RECUPERATE OPEN 7 DAYS

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Monday to Friday 6am to 8pm Saturday & Sunday 7am to 7pm

Travel the Great Artesian Drive to discover seven distinctive and unique artesian spa facilities in the North West of NSW. www.greatartesiandrive.com.au

Feeling weary from your Travels, or just looking for a place to relax?

The benefits of soaking in mineral rich artesian water should sooth and revitalise you straight away 'It’s like nothing you’ve ever experienced!

For your enjoyment • Mineral rich naturally heated Artesian Pools • Artesian Soak & Sauna Retreat • Private Artesian Baths • Massage & Facials

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“Great treat after a day of driving.”

20 Anne Street, Moree NSW 2400 T (02) 6752 2272 info@maacltd.com www.maacltd.com

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A trip to the Ridge would not be complete without a visit to the free Artesian Bore Baths.

At the end of a hard day fossicking and exploring allow the water to soothe your aches while you gaze at the starry night sky.

16 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 29, 2017

GREY NOMADS Tracey Johnstone

HEADING out on the Australian road as a single woman, towing a caravan for the first time and with a heavy heart after the recent death of her husband, Betty Quinn has proven she has the drive to continue living a full life.

She travelled 19,756km around Australia in convoy with three couples, with an average age of about 70, taking just under five months to discover that outback Australia is “simply gorgeous”.

“Why would you want to go anywhere else when you have Australia,” Betty said.

During June to October they travelled from the Sunshine Coast across western Queensland and into Northern Territory, along the West Australian coast and then across South Australia, into Victoria before heading back up the East Coast to Queensland.

She fell in love with West Australia’s coastline and Broome in particular, the Bungle Bungles, and her must-see recommendation of Katherine Gorge.

Fiercely independent, 68-year-old Betty took to the challenge of the road trip with great delight and a little bit of cheek.

“They generally put me in the middle of the pack; they didn’t trust me at the end in case I picked up a stray along the way,” Betty said with a smile.

“I did get to lead a few times, once when we went into the Northern Territory.”

The whole idea of the trip happened almost by accident.

Her brother Randall was chatting about how he, his wife, and two other couples were planning another caravanning trip around Australia.

“I just said, ‘can I come’ and he said if I bought myself a caravan and a decent car to pull it, I could come along,” Betty said.

Being determined and self-sufficient character, Betty didn’t delay in putting a plan into action.

She found the car first, choosing a second-hand diesel, automatic 4WD Hyundai ix35.

Then it was time for finding a 14-foot, pop-top caravan with single beds, which is what her brother recommended.

“I was researching on Gumtree for a while, but then one of the guys travelling with us saw a caravan on the side of the road down near his place,” Betty said.

“Next morning my brother, sister-in-law, daughter and I jumped in the car and went to check it out.

“I made an offer on the spot.”

Preparing for the big journey involved doing several short trips away in the company of her brother, and then with her daughter Stacey.

She didn’t take any driving lessons, preferring to learn along the way, except for reversing.

“One of the guys would park it for me.

“But for hooking up and unhooking, putting the annex out and putting it away, I did that by myself.”

A single girl’s tale of outback adventure

heavily on the app Wiki Camps to find free camp sites which Betty said she would recommend to anyone doing a caravanning trip.

The trip proved a happy experience and an Enjoying the magnific affordable ent view over Lake Arg yle, near Kununurra, West one. She Australia. spent about PHOTO: BETTY QUINN $45,000 on the car and caravan, and a s at e of the working vehicle then another Betty Quinn beside on Australia. $2500 for the mine in Dampier, West PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED diesel.

With free camping at Adjusting to living in a confined space faithful friend, Amber, which meant that several places she saved a lot so her was relatively easy for Betty as she had when it came time to visiting national accommodation and food costs came spent the previous eight years living on a parks, she would leave her poodle with down to under $8000. power boat with her husband. one of the couples who would visit the Back home, Betty has her caravan “One thing about living on the boat park on another day. safely parked in a free caravan parking and living in a caravan, you know when “That was the only drawback from area within her retirement village while you use something, you put it away; you travelling with a pet,” she said. she plans her next adventure. can’t leave stuff lying around,” she said.

While her brother and his friends “I would love to do the trip again, but At her side throughout the trip was her planned the trip, on the road they relied take a shorter time,” Betty said.

Now here’s a little caravanning secret worth sharing WIKICAMPS is a camping and caravanning companion you don’t leave home without, even if you are only planning on a weekend away.

It’s a free app for smart phones, tablets or Windows computers.

The app information states it has the largest and most up-to-date database of camp grounds, caravan

parks, backpacker hostels, day use area, points of interest, information centres, public dump points and more.

The database is kept up-to-date by users so you can contribute to its knowledge as you travel the length and breadth of Australia.

It also works offline which is great if you are somewhere that doesn’t have

a wi-fi signal.

To start using the app, download its content to your device before you go away so you have it with you right from the start of your happy travels.

To find the app, go to www.wikicamps.com.au.

Coffs and Clarence

Monday, May 29, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 17

GREY NOMADS

10 best camp spots in Australia Compiled by Christine Perkin

HERE are a few of my picks of great stays around Australia.

BAY OF FIRES TASMANIA

BAY of Fires is one of the most beautiful low-cost camping spots locations in Tasmania. Tasmanians have flocked to the Bay of Fires over Christmas, Easter, long weekends and on school holidays to soak up the beauty of the area, including the white sand and azure sea.

St Helens is only a short drive away, where you can buy food, petrol and showers at council-operated facilities.

Please remember that dogs are not allowed in national parks and most reserves. Details go to www.parks.tas.gov.au

MYRTLE PARK TARGA – TASMANIA

A VERY pretty camping area that is set alongside the St Patricks River, which boasts to have trout and platypus. They offer unpowered sites and good amenities, and the area is suitable for large caravans, motorhomes and big rigs. Located in the small town of Targa, halfway between Launceston and Scottsdale on the Tasman Hwy (A3).

Bookings are recommended for those wanting to reserve a site with a fireplace.

Free hot showers, free electric barbecue.

Phone: 03 6399 3368. Cost from $10 per person per night. Located at 38250 Tasman Hwy, Targa TAS 7259.

WANGI FALLS CAMPGROUND – LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK-NORTHERN TERRITORY

NOT a free camp but very cheap fees.

Wangi Falls Campground is one of six campgrounds located within the Litchfield National Park. Non-powered caravan camping sites are only available at Wangi Falls. 4WD camping areas (dry season only) are at Tjaynera Falls (Sandy Creek), Surprise Creek Falls and downstream from Florence Falls. Walk-in camping sites are available along Walker Creek (dry season only).

Camping fee per night: Adults: $6.60.

Bookings are essential.

Generators are not permitted in Litchfield National Park. Swim only where recommended, observe warning signs.

Pets are not permitted. Check access by calling 08 8976 0282 and go to www.nt.gov.au/leisure/parks-reserves for details.

DALY WATERS PUB – NORTHERN TERRITORY

THIS is a must-stop Outback Pub. A lot of fun in the middle of nowhere. The beef ‘n’ barra barbie every night between April and October is to die for. It is so popular that you need to book. Free entertainment nightly. Accommodation available. Powered camping sites with prices starting from $16 per person per night.

Located Stuart St, Daly Waters,

Northern Territory. If you are travelling south from Darwin approximately 600kms. Turn right off the Stuart Highway 3kms to the pub. Travelling north from Alice Springs approximately 900kms. Turn left off the Stuart Highway.

Phone: 08 8975 9927, email dalywaterspub@bigpond.com or go to www.dalywaterspub.com

BITTER SPRINGS ELSEY NATIONAL PARK – NORTHERN TERRITORY

THE beauty of these springs will surprise you. Discovered by surveyors for the overland telegraph line in the latter part of the 19th Century, the Bitter Springs are located two kilometres from Mataranka in the Katherine region. Set amongst palms and tropical woodlands in the Elsey National Park, these spring-fed thermal pools are an ideal place to relax and unwind.

Non-powered campsites are available at Jalmurark Campground. Phone: 08 8975 4560. There are also privately run campgrounds near the park. Located Martin Road, Mataranka.

BERRY SHOWGROUND CAMPSITE BERRY – NSW

BERRY is lucky to have one of the best showgrounds in New South Wales. With its superb well-maintained lawns, shady areas and many historic buildings on site, it is a fantastic place for alia.

Broome, Western Austr tent, trailer or caravan SCENIC: Roebuck Bay, camping. Pet friendly.

The railway station is immediately behind the Showground so you can catch the train Heritage Fraser Island. The Pacific Ocean up to Sydney for the day. is on the eastern side and the Great Located at 35 Alexandra Street, Berry Sandy Strait is on the western side.

NSW 2535 Phone 0427 605 200.

Inskip Point Camping Ground is a nature-based recreational area.

INSKIP POINT CAMPING All Inskip Point Camping Grounds GROUND – RAINBOW BEACH SE require valid camping permits. You can QUEENSLAND obtain these permits by: booking Online ENJOY the beauty of Inskip Point www.nprsr.qld.gov.au or by calling Camping Ground which is located 13 74 68 or by booking in person at opposite the southern tip of World number of locations in Rainbow Beach.

ROEBUCK BAY BROOME – WESTERN AUSTRALIA

ROEBUCK Bay Caravan Park enjoys an idyllic location with uninterrupted views over Roebuck Bay. Roebuck Bay Caravan Park is not what you would call a low-cost park with fees for a small powered site starting around $36, but it is the most popular park in Broome and is located right on Town Beach, Roebuck Bay. Broome is Western Australia’s secret getaway – right on the Indian Ocean’s doorstep and the gateway to Australia’s last frontier of pristine wilderness – the Kimberley. Contact details 08 9192 1366.

PALM COVE HOLIDAY PARK – NORTH QUEENSLAND

ONLY metres from the beach in a beautiful location with state-of-the-art facilities to make your stay all the more enjoyable. Pet friendly. Reasonably priced at $29 without power a night with specials available. Located at 149 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove QLD. For details contact 07 4055 3824 or email info@palmcovehp.com.au.

GENOA CAMPGROUND – VICTORIA

Genoa Rest Area is located at the bank of Genoa River with site suitable to caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs. The area is large and grassy with accessible amenities and has lots of large trees for shade. Genoa River is 14km West of the Victoria/NSW border on the Princes highway. The Genoa Campground is located on the old Princes Highway (4 Park Road) just North of the Genoa River bridge.

There is no charge for the use of this facility, however, donations are requested to upkeep the area.

THE PUB WITH NO Did you know the “Cosmopolitan” Hotel, Which locals refused to pass Is now a noted landmark, For every creed and class For the pub one day ran out of beer, A bloke wrote of it’s fate another bloke made it a song, Its known world wide now mate.

BEER * Under new management

* Wide range of tap beer and craft beer

* Great food with generous portions

* Pizzas available at any time of the day (great for campers with a late arrival, you can always grab something to eat) * Great collection of Slim Dusty & Gordon Parsons memorabilia * Campsite just across the road with a BBQ, amenities, and access to our gas heated showers * Our accommodation consists of 9 rooms and can sleep 33 people.

Standard rooms as well as bunk rooms starting from $25/night * Popular spot for camping groups and motorbike groups. * Great local trails for bike riders and horse riders 6584868aa

www.pubwithnobeer.com

4 Taylors Arm Rd, Taylors Arm NSW 2447 (02) 6564 2100 • info@pubwithnobeer.com

18 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 29, 2017

GREY NOMADS

‘Bucket list’ glamping destinations not to be missed Compiled by Nicky Norman

Paperbark Camp, Jervis Bay, New South Wales.

Rare bush camp site locations BUSH Heritage Australia has opened a range of protected reserves that are perfect to experience nature in its purest form.

Here are some locations: NEW SOUTH WALES ★Naree Station – guided tour, September 8–10. Must be booked in advance.

Spend a long weekend travelling through Naree’s 14,400ha patchwork of woodlands, grasslands and ephemeral wetlands Two nights, Base camp with day tours. Vehicles: AWD/4WD. Cost: $220/adult.

QUEENSLAND ★Carnarvon Station Reserve – camping (May–September).

The reserve features rugged sandstone hills, narrow valley floors and high escarpments. It’s located about 900km west of Brisbane.

TASMANIA ★Liffey Valley Reserves – day trip (self guided).

The Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage wilderness 130ha reserves is a wonderful area to walk in.

VICTORIA ★JC Griffin Nature Reserve – uided visits, September 16 or October 15.

Some of the trees in this reserve are thought to be more than 300 years old.

It’s a haven for bushland birds, reptiles and mammals Booking/more info: Contact Bush Heritage’s Katrina Blake on (03) 8610 9124.

LOVE nature but also love a few creature comforts?... then glamour camping, or “glamping” as it is better known, might be perfect for you.

It allows you to commune with nature in the comfort of a luxurious tent and experience Australia’s nature in glorious, eco-friendly style. You get the simplicity of the great outdoors combined with the opulence of fresh linen, private bathrooms, spa treatments and gourmet meals prepared for you. Here are some of the top glamping locations throughout the country.

ROOM WITH A VIEW: Ro

NIGHTFALL WILDERNESS CAMP, QLD

Where: 45 minutes from the Gold Coast, beside the crystal-clear tumbling headwaters of Christmas Creek and Queensland’s ancient Lamington National Park rainforests.

Highlights: Redefining luxury through architect-inspired, hand-built, permanent safari tents, sumptuous fire-cooked cuisine, secluded wilderness, rotating in-tent fireplace, vintage baths, rain-head showers and more. Only three guests tents ensure privacy and delicately positioned to minimise impact on the camp's sensitive Australian wilderness surrounds.

Cost: Tents from $445. www.nightfall.com.au

LONGITUDE 131°, NT

Where: Overlooking Uluru (Ayers Rock) is located in the Red Centre of Australia.

Highlights: Luxurious air-conditioned tents welcome private views of Uluru – Australia’s best-known natural icon – and comprise of king or twin beds, lounge, spacious bathroom and balcony with daybed and fireplace. Other features include complimentary in-suite bar, music system, wireless internet, climate control, premium amenities, bathrobes, safe, telephone and twice daily housekeeping.

Cost: Luxury tent from $1350 per person per night inclusive (min. two night stay). www.longitude131.com.au

ar and Snore, Sydney.

Where: Taronga Zoo, Mosman, Sydney.

Highlights: Taronga Zoo Sydney’s ultimate sleepover experience. Enjoy refreshments and nibbles at the zoo's harbourside campsite, followed by an opportunity to get up close with some of the zoo’s friendliest creatures with a 1.5 hour night safari. Camp in safari style tents in the heart of Taronga Zoo and wake up to spectacular views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, with a continental breakfast in the morning.

Cost: Roar and Snore accommodation is from $300 per person per night. www.taronga.org.au

Where: Wilpena Pound Resort, Ikara Flinders Ranges National Park, 429km north of Adelaide.

Highlights: Fifteen luxury safari tents.

Two-person Ikara safari tents are suitable for singles or couples wanting a luxury “glamping” getaway.

Each tent has a modern ensuite bathroom, a luxe king-size bed, reverse cycle air-conditioning and its own private deck and fire pit. The two family safari tents sleep up to four people and have all the luxuries of the couples’ tents with an annex added for the extra people.

Costs: Tents from $320 a night, including breakfast. www.ikarasafaricamp.com.au

PEBBLE POINT, VIC

KARIJINI ECO RETREAT, WA

Where: Three kilometres from the Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road, about 2.5 hours from Melbourne.

Highlights: An exclusive bush retreat nestled behind the cliff tops and rock formations of the world famous Twelve Apostles. Six spacious luxury tents with luxurious king-size beds with a natural latex mattress and all your linen and towels supplied and spacious ensuite bathrooms. Also a shared BBQ, tea and coffee facilities, camp kitchen with fridge and offering a range of recreational opportunities and natural experiences.

Cost: From $145 per night. www.pebblepoint.com.au

HUON BUSH RETREAT, TAS

Where: Ranelagh, Huon Valley. About 50 minutes south of Hobart.

As we get older, it’s a little harder to get around.

Coffs Harbour, Bellingen & Nambucca Community Transport can help with: Door-to-door transport to medical and everyday appointments; Flexible travel options for shopping; Meet new friends on our social outings; Low-cost transport;

CALL US NOW 1300 812 504 to check your elibility www.communitytransport.net.au

IKARA SAFARI CAMP, SA

ROAR AND SNORE, NSW

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Highlights: The deluxe teepee have a timber and canvas construction, built within the natural bushland without major clearings, giving a privacy and a close connection with the peaceful surroundings. Teepees include a sofa bed, towels, bedding, wood fired heater, balcony and outdoor furniture, shared shower and outdoor two person bath. This Tasmanian glamping experience combines comfort and nature at a low price.

Cost: From $100 per night or less for long stay. www.huonbushretreats.com

Where: Karijini National Park, in the nature-based destination of the Pilbara region of Western Australia.

Highlights: Stay in one of the eco tents for a comfortable and natural glamping experience within the national park.

These tents are semi-permanent structures that incorporate ecologically sustainable principles and can easily be erected and dismantled in remote areas with little impact to the natural environment using recycled materials wherever possible.

Each tent has its own private ensuite bathroom, front and rear deck, spacious stylish interiors, king-size bed or two single beds, and quality bedding and linen.

Cost: From $315 including breakfast. www.karijiniecoretreat.com.au

Coffs and Clarence

Monday, May 29, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 19

GREY NOMADS

CARAVANNING: Master the art of reverse parking before you head off on holiday.

10 things to know

before setting off in your RV 3. KNOW THE FEATURES

Compiled by Nicky Norman

What is an RV? RV STANDS for Recreational Vehicle and is basically a home on wheels. They can also be referred to as motorhomes or camper vans. The main features on-board are a kitchen, a bathroom, beds and TV, some even have a washing machine. An RV is different from a caravan because it is a self-driving vehicle and has an engine, steering wheel and a driver’s seat, whereas a caravan is towed behind another vehicle.

1. RV OR A CARAVAN

BUYING an RV can be an excellent investment and a great way to have the flexibility to travel without depending on hotel reservations and airports. You can cook for yourself, keep all your clothes hanging in a closet rather than in a suitcase, and generally make yourself at home. In some cases, people live in their motorhome, meaning no mortgage or rent to pay. For the most part though, RVs are used as vacation homes.

2. SIZE AND TYPE

THERE are a wide range of RV’s available to buy or rent, so it is important that you have some idea of your needs. Keep in mind your required levels of comfort, privacy, security, where you want to travel and what is within your budget.

WHEN you have your RV, be sure to pay particular attention to all the features.

Ensure that everything is in a proper working order and good condition if not new and that all the safety features are present within the vehicle.

4. INSURANCE OPTIONS

INSURANCE coverage is always a good idea because you never know when you may need it. Just like your car or home, it’s important to have the peace of mind.

5. DRIVING YOUR RV

BEFORE you head out on the open road, get to know your vehicle by practising a few manoeuvres around the car park.

First-timers often struggle with reversing and parking and it will also take some time to get used to driving the vehicle itself. Giving it a test drive will also allow you to test out the features and ensure that you are a confident driver.

6. PACKING YOUR RV

YOU can pack light and leave the extra space for items on the go or be fully prepared with everything planned out to the last detail and stocked up ready for long distances.

7. BOOK CAMPING GROUNDS IN ADVANCE PLAN ahead and get to know the best

camp grounds in the areas you are wishing to stay. By booking in advance you will be guaranteed a place to stay for the night and you will get the pick of RV sites. When you leave the camp site, make sure you have your aerial down, hatch closed and windows up.

8. ENSURE THE SECURITY OF YOUR LOAD

BEFORE you head off, make sure everything is put away in cabinets and cupboards, to prevent them flying around while you are driving. Ensuring the weight of your load is distributed evenly, will also aid with wind resistance and make your journey a smoother one.

9. REGISTER WITH CMCA

WITH over 66,000 members, Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australa is the largest RV Club in the southern hemisphere. As a CMCA member, not only will you have access to numerous benefits but the security of travelling Australia, knowing you are never alone. www.cmca.net.au/.

10. THINGS YOU CAN DO

YOU will have a lot of free time, so make sure you keep busy with crosswords, playing cards, board games, reading, music and creative activities like painting, knitting and sewing.

Reverse parking your van REVERSE parking your caravan for the first time, particularly when one or more people are watching, has to be one of the most stressful experiences in your life.

Luckily RACQ has the following top tips to help you look like a professional, once you have mastered these tips.

■ Spend time getting familiar with the basics of reversing a caravan before you set out on a trip.

■ Get yourself a person to help guide you into the parking area.

■ Find a large space, such as an empty car park, and try reversing the caravan into one of the spaces.

This will help you to get a handle on which direction to turn the steering wheel.

■ Remember – when reversing a caravan is that to move right you need to turn the steering wheel to the left and vice versa.

■ Before reversing into a site, take a moment to look around the area for low branches or other debris that could get in the way.

■ One of the easiest ways to swing the caravan into a site is to ensure that the site is on the right-hand side of the car.

■ If you are not feeling confident and don’t have a fellow traveller to give you directions, you could try asking another caravanner for assistance.

■ Reversing cameras are a great help when reversing; we use them every day in cars so why not with your caravan?

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20 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 29, 2017

GREY NOMADS

Get animal WOW factor into your next holiday

WHEN you head out to have fun on the road, have you ever thought about pitching your tent close to where you can drop in on some of Australia’s fantastic animal encounter parks?

Right around Australia there are some amazing animals to meet in venues that are well-known and others that are luckily still not on the main tourism radar.

So, let’s pack the tent, the caravan or camper home and get discovering just a few of the many animal encounters on offer.

Sleep with a lion tonight in Canberra ■ Jamala Wildlife Lodge is on Lady Denman Drive in Canberra.

■ Park your caravan outside and indulge yourselves for just one night, at least.

■ The park boasts the most dangerous and endangered wildlife and aquarium experiences.

■ There is a choice of three accommodation venues, with the cost including exclusive park tours, all food and night-time drinks.

■ The rooms are quite snazzy with each featuring African themes and many have wildlife sleeping with you, albeit on the

other side of some safety glass.

■ Get in early to enjoy amazing encounters with red pandas, white lions, owls, sharks, tigers, otters, giraffe, tree kangaroos, meerkats, sunbears and cheetahs.

Roar ‘n Snore in Melbourne ■ Melbourne Zoo is located in the heart of Melbourne.

■ It offers guests, between September and May, the chance to stay overnight within its grounds with camping equipment provided; you just need to bring a sleeping bag and pillow.

■ Dinner is in the historic Elephant Exhibit.

■ Once dinner is done, guests get to wander around the zoo, enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of the nocturnal creatures before bedding down for the night.

■ In the morning, the local residents will wake you for breakfast and a full day of amazing up-close animal encounters.

■ The cost includes camping equipment, meals and Zoo day ticket.

Have a wild night out in Sydney ■ Walkabout Wildlife Park is located just north of Sydney on Darkinjung Road at Calga.

■ There are various accommodation

choices on site; bush survival with no creature comforts and lots of bush survival skills to be learnt, evening and morning ranger-led animal encounters and eco-cabin luxury so you can wake up with the animals, a ranger-led tour with comfortable camping, including just a few luxuries, or chose grown-up cottage accommodation with comforts and bush outlook.

■ The park has many different types of animals in its bushland setting: koalas, dingoes, Tasmanian devil, python, emus, wallaroos, skinks, turtles and many more.

Mingle with the Meerkats in South Australia ■ Monarto Zoo is located on the Old Princes Highway in Monarto.

■ The park is over 1000 hectares zoological park and natural wilderness sanctuary.

■ It also has a centre for conservation and enjoyment of wildlife and nature.

■ The park boasts 500 animals and 50 species of exotic and native mammals, birds and reptiles and plays a major role nationally and internationally in rare breeding and endangered species programs.

■ Visitors can book in to sleep under

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the stars in your tent, caravan or sleeping bag on special dates during the year.

Volunteer in Northern Territory ■ Nina’s Ark Wildlife Sanctuary is an outback wildlife sanctuary located near Litchfield National Park.

■ Access to the private park and veterinary clinic is limited to April through December.

■ Tours, which are not self-drive, are available once booked.

■ It’s a refuge for orphaned or injured native animals.

■ The volunteers come from all over the globe to work with orphaned and injured wildlife.

■ The park is host to many animal species, including brush tailed possum, wallaby, wallaroo, black footed tree rat, bandicoot, northern quoll, partridge pigeon, brumbies, cockatoos, curlew and black-necked stork.

■ Basic, clean accommodation for a maximum of two nights is available on site with the $150 per night fee, including pick up from the entrance, three meals both days and torch.

■ At night guests join in a BBQ by the camp fire and feed some of the animals.

6652 2406 11/20 Gordon Street, Coffs Harbour

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Tracey Johnstone

Coffs and Clarence

Monday, May 29, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 21

Travel Atlantis experiences that enthral visitorsai in Dub

ANN RICKARD checked into the sprawling high-tech hotel, Atlantis the Palm in Dubai, and found everything from fun to fine dining, to shopping, culture, exploration, even education.

1. THE LOBBY

TALK about a grand entrance. The lobby is the first glimpse of this Atlantean-themed destination, with eight imposing columns giving the impression of fish scales. Then there is the 60m wall of windows with an infinity view over blue waters of The Palm. In the centre a 9.75-metre high blown-glass sculpture surrounded by a reflection pool brings the essence of the ocean to life.

2. UNDERWATER SUITES

FLOOR-to-ceiling views from the master bedroom into an aquarium create an illusion of being beneath the sea.

Sleep with the sea creatures swimming all around you.

3. THE ROYAL POOL

IT PROVIDES the best view towards the cityscape of Dubai as well as first class view of The Palm.

Refreshments are available all day around the pool and at The Edge and The Shore food outlets.

4. SHUIQI SPA & FITNESS

ENTER the expansive spa

and be greeted by a water wall, then be guided along a streaming water pathway to one of 27 treatment rooms.

The treatment menu is as extensive as it is exciting, with offerings ranging from spa journeys to body therapies, as well as full salon services for his and hers beautifying sessions.

5. AQUAVENTURE WATERPARK

YOUR inner child will thank you for taking him to these 42 acres of joyful water experiences.

Get on the river ride action with its cascades, tidal waves and rapids, then dare to take to the Tower of Poseidon reaching 40m into the sky.

(Heart-stopping, be warned.)

6. THE LOST CHAMBERS AQUARIUM

DISCOVER the mazes of underground tunnels and passageways of The Lost Chambers, bringing them into close contact with the myth and the advanced inventions of the ancient Atlanteans.

7. ULTIMATE SNORKEL IN THE AMBASSADOR LAGOON

SWIM with 65,000 marine animals, including sharks, fish and many species of rays, in this underwater exhibit.

This habitat focuses on

marine life found in the local waters of the Arabian Gulf.

Watch the sea life and learn about fish species and ocean preservation.

8. DINING AT GORDON RAMSAY’S BREAD STREET KITCHEN & BAR

AN OUTPOST of his London establishment with a British European menu.

An eclectic environment from day through night, the bar at Bread Street Kitchen with its imaginative mixologists is an integral part of the space.

9. KALEIDOSCOPE, THE ULTIMATE

BUFFET EXPERIENCE

INTERNATIONAL at its best. European Mediterranean cuisine are complemented by cuisines of Northern Africa, India and the Levant region.

Whether to have breakfast, lunch or dinner will be the only problem.

10. SHOPPING THE AVENUES

A Luxuriously colourful marketplace.

Browse some of the world’s most sought-after brands in high-end boutiques from Rodeo Drive to Tiffany & Co, and Porsche Design.

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22 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

How to make a dream holiday a super reality Cruise Traveller

CLOSE your eyes and imagine slipping gently along, skippering your own boat on the Canal du Midi in southern France, exploring the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Pause along the way to taste the local food, savour the wines, visit medieval villages and take in the glorious scenery.

Now open eyes and start to plan, making your dream holiday a reality.

Australian company Cruise Traveller is offering the answer for a perfect boating holiday.

“Locaboat is suitable for all adult ages, and the leisurely pace of the whole product makes it a very relaxing experience,” managing director Craig Bowen said.

“If you have even basic

boating experience it will be easy, however even as a first-timer the operational side of the vessel is extremely simple.

“The instructions made available by the departure base are excellent, and the written information provided is comprehensive.

“I’m in my late 50s and I found the experience not only straight-forward, but one of the most enjoyable, relaxed and great value holiday experiences I have had.”

Locaboat is a long-established French company that owns a fleet of 380 top-quality Penichettes and canal boats.

It offers 200 different cruises to enjoy in 24 regions across Europe.

You don’t need a licence to steer these fully

Canal du Midi, 11, Aude, in France.

travel

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 29, 2017

QUIET BEAUTY: Gliding by the Penichette ruins in Ireland.

equipped and certified craft around and through canals and waterways.

All equipment, crockery, cutlery, bed-linen and towels are supplied, along with gas bottle and a captain’s handbook.

“You’ll receive boat handling instructions and orientation on the departure day to make sure you understand essential cruising rules, which are pretty simple,” Mr Bowen said.

In case you are concerned, technical assistance is available every day.

You can hire a Locaboat from 642 Euro per person twin share for seven days.

That price is based on a Penichette P935W in France, ideal for a couple.

Larger Penichettes are available for bigger groups with a P1107W from only 243 Euro per person for

PHOTO: PALOMBA ROBERT

seven days, based on six people.

There are multiple departure dates and bases to choose from.

“The itinerary is up to you. You’re the skipper,” Mr Bowen said.

“The Canal du Midi is a prime prospect; it’s near the heart of the Camargue, an amazing region on France’s Mediterranean coast, famous for its wildlife, white horses, black bulls and pink flamingos.

“The Canal du Midi is also close to the Etang de Thau and its fantastic oyster beds.”

Every part of the journey is exceptional such as the area around Carcassonne with its towers and battlements complete with fortified towns of white stone and historic villages like Trèbes and Puicheric.

Medieval villages, Roman churches, abbeys and isolated monasteries; all of them can be visited from the self-drive canal boat.

Across France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands and Poland your self-drive boating holiday will be punctuated by beautiful landscapes and charming towns, castles, wine cellars and historical sights.

In France, options include Midi and Camargue, the Southwest, the Lot Valley, Brittany, the Ardennes and Alsace-Lorraine, Burgundy and Saône, the Loire and Nivernais.

In Germany, Müritz and Mecklenburg beckon, or Brandenburg and Berlin.

Another choice is the Netherlands where you can cruise either north or south Holland.

Floating along in Port de Plaisance.

Cruise Italy’s Venetian Lagoon where the great renaissance maritime city of Venice crowns this enclosed bay of the Adriatic Sea in northern Italy.

Poland’s Masurian Lakes offers countless lakes dot verdant, undulating landscapes, embellished by villages, tracts of forest and thriving farms.

Green Ireland’s Shannon-Erne Waterway with its 16 automatic locks, provides a delightful latticework of rivers, canals, lakes, islands and villages where visitors should pause for at least one pint of Guinness.

For information on all the self-drive boating holidays, go to cruisetraveller.com.au or call 1800 507 777.

PHOTO: ERICH SPIEGELHALTER

travel

Monday, May 29, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Coffs and Clarence

The luxury of slow train Ann Rickard

TRAVELLING to the US in the future? You might be put off by their domestic flight system and in light of the recent United Airlines kerfuffle, Rail Plus has reinforced the benefits of rail travel in the US. Commercial director Ingrid Kocijan says it is well-known that train travel is much less stressful than air travel, with bonus factors including the luxury of space, comfortable seats with legroom and no set baggage limits adding to the stress-free experience.

“Apart from not having to endure long queues or waiting time at check-in and baggage claim, and being able to go from city centre to city centre without additional transportation costs and journey time, travellers can also take comfort in knowing that there is absolutely no chance of seat overbooking on

trains,” Kocijan said.

“Peak travel times would usually see an increase in capacity via additional carriages on selected trains; otherwise passengers would be informed straight away of seat availability and alternatives when making their seat reservations.

“Also, the level of care and customer service provided on board the trains, at the service counter or on the phone is of a high standard.”

While best suited to travellers with the luxury of time, train travel is also an undeniably great way for visitors to see the vast and varied landscape of the USA during a relaxed journey, something that more Australian and New Zealand travellers are appreciating.

Rail Plus recorded a 36% year-on-year increase in Australian and New Zealand travellers exploring the US by rail last year.

The most popular point-to-point destinations

and journeys being booked include: ■ New York City – Washington DC – 3 hours.

■ New York City – Boston – 4 hours and 30 minutes.

■ Seattle – Vancouver – 4 hours.

■ Los Angeles – Grand Canyon – 12 hours.

■ Universal Studios: Miami – Orlando, 7 hours and 18 minutes.

■ Disneyland: Los Angeles to Anaheim – 39 minutes.

“While point-to-point tickets have proven more popular among travellers who prefer to spend more time in fewer destinations during their short visits averaging two weeks, Amtrak passes remain popular among travellers planning to hop around the country on longer visits of up to 45 days.”

Travellers deciding to see the USA by train can equip themselves with some useful tips and considerations suggested by the experts at Rail Plus to help with their itineraries and bookings.

Seniors 23

ON TRACK: Consider taking the train when travelling in the USA.

PHOTO: AMTRAK

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24 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 29, 2017

Wellbeing

Top beauty tips for the mature woman LISTENING to an interview on Radio National with Fran Kelly and a Dr Greg Goodman – dermatologist, Associate Professor, Monash University and chief of surgery, Skin and Cancer Foundation – would have made many an Aussie woman perk up and listen closely.

According to Dr Goodman, a team of international scientists has found that Australian women’s faces are ageing faster than those of women in the UK, the US and Canada.

The study of more than 4000 women from around the world found moderate to severe signs of ageing 20 years earlier in Australian women compared to women in other countries.

This is not good news even though Australian women have long been aware of the sun’s damage to the skin.

Dr Goodman stressed that skin care and skin protection from a very young age is one way to help prevent this premature ageing.

One of Australia’s most respected beauty columnists, Stephanie Darling, is also one of the country’s loudest advocates when it comes

BEAUTY SECRETS: Australian women’s faces are ageing faster than those of women in the UK, the US and Canada.

PHOTO: WAVEBREAKMEDIA LTD

to anti-ageing and agrees wholeheartedly that the consistent use of sunscreen is essential for everyone, no matter the age.

Stephanie has spent her entire career chasing beauty in her work at some of the world’s biggest and most luxurious magazines and interviewed countless celebrities.

She has even compared cosmetic surgery with Jane Fonda and discussed pelvic floor exercises with Dame Edna.

In her book, Secrets of a Beauty Queen, Stephanie shares some of the tips she has learnt trialling every new product that hits the market. ★“I am a big believer in sunscreen,” she said. “We look 10 years older than

our European sisters, living in this crazy climate.

“Whether we are talking about a toddler or a 100-year-old, sunscreen is a must.

“It should be used on the face, neck, décolletage and back of hands.

“I know people say ‘not that message again’ but it is the one beauty tip that will help everyone appear

younger. That, and a smile. That sounds corny but it is not. ★“The greatest beauty accessory is a simple smile and it lifts your mood.”

While good regimented skin care is an essential beauty tool, Stephanie says it is not necessary to spend a fortune on a jar of moisturiser just because it looks beautiful or bears

a big brand name.

“Find a counter person (in the department store) who you can trust, who is good,” she said.

“Companies come out with amazing moisturisers and some of these products work but others don’t. ★“Some women find Sorbolene amazing or Neutrogena excellent, which are brands available in supermarkets. As long as it has SPF 50 plus in it, that is the key.”

Stephanie admits that most beauty advice is aimed at women 50 and younger and many advisors seem to forget that women are still interested in beauty and glamour in their 60s and 70s, and going into their 80s and even 90s.

“There is that awful thing of invisibility (for older women) that a lot of people don’t address,” she said.

“Look at Jane Fonda at 74, an amazing actor and celebrity and very beautiful. I think women get more beautiful as they age and become more powerful, wiser. I try and address my beauty column to include every age.”

Secrets of a Beauty Queen by Stephanie Darling is published by Penguin. It’s RRP is $34.95.

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Ann Rickard

wellbeing

Monday, May 29, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Coffs and Clarence

Seniors 25

Simple steps for over 50s to live long and very well Tracey Johnstone

LIFE at 50 is probably still in full speed ahead, but that’s no reason for any man to ignore the state of his health.

In fact, it’s a very good time to take stock and review where he is at and what he needs to do to ensure the ageing path is smooth, happy and healthy.

The Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute men’s health group Foundation 49 has put together a to do list of health checks for men who are into their

50th year.

First up is, if you don’t have a GP, find one that you feel comfortable with discussing openly your health issues.

Those issues may be physical strength, energy, sex drive and sense of masculinity.

Set yourself a target of meeting with your GP at least once a year; maybe use your birthday as the date you make your annual appointment.

Next up is using the following 50s health check when meeting with your GP:

■ Weight and waist measurement.

■ Blood pressure.

■ Cholesterol and glucose levels.

■ Eye checks.

■ Bowel cancer screening.

■ Tetanus booster every 10 years.

■ Blood test for kidney and liver function.

■ Mental health – talk about any issues or concerns with your GP or a counsellor.

■ Hearing check.

■ Sexually transmitted diseases.

There is the ongoing

Foundation 49 DIY Tips for over 50 and over – ■ Keep fit by exercising at least three times each week for 30 minutes – try a brisk walk or try cycling.

■ Time Out – enjoy your friends and family.

■ Drink moderately; are you having at least three-alcohol free days

❝

First up is, if you don’t have a GP, find one that you feel comfortable with discussing openly your health issues. each week?

■ Laugh lots and loud.

■ Talk about any problems or concerns you may have with your friends or family

or talk to a GP or counsellor.

In our next edition, we will take a look at: Your 60s.

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26 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 29, 2017

What’s on

So much to do JUNE brings us the vivid autumnal colours of liquidambars, closely followed by the June long weekend holiday, falling leaves, wood smoke and frosts, but there is plenty happening to keep us warm.

★ COMICS ON THE RUN

CAMP Quality Comics on the Run at Sawtell RSL at 8pm on Saturday, June 3, features a line-up of amusing performers, including Barry McLeod, Tommy Dean, Sarah Levett and Brett Nichols.

Ticket sales will help create a better life for children affected by cancer. Tickets from Sawtell RSL, group bookings Camp Quality office 6651 4486.

★ MAL EASTICK

VINTAGE Australian guitarist Mal Eastick now runs his own gig, Mal’s Blues Bar, on the last Sunday of every month at Yamba Golf Club, featuring guest vocalists.

On Sunday, June 4, he will perform at the Hoey Moey’s Sunday Sesh in Coffs Harbour.

★ LINE DANCING

BEGINNERS’ line dancing class 1–4pm Thursday at Sawtell RSL (free class).

Line dancing classes ranging from easy fun to advanced are held weekly at Coffs Harbour, Boambee, Sawtell, Urunga and Nambucca.

Inexpensive, suitable for all ages, no partners required. Inquiries to Robyn 6568 7232.

★ COLOURING FOR GROWN-UPS

EXPRESS your creativity at

Clarence.

★ KITTY FLANAGAN

SMASHING is the title of comedian Kitty Flanagan’s show, coming to Grafton’s Saraton Theatre at 7.30pm on June 24.

Recommended for mature audiences, Kitty smashes love songs, sex, algorithms, chimps, clowns, psychics and other bumps in the 21st century roadmap.

JOURNALIST BELINDA SCOTT Grafton Library on June 9 and every second Friday of the month from 10.30am to noon with a favourite childhood pastime that is now a go-to trend. Bring optional colouring materials.

★ YAMBA RIVER MARKET

★ POETRY SLAM

BELLINGEN Readers and Writers Festival’s popular Poetry Slam will be held at the Bellingen Memorial Hall from 7pm on Friday, June 9. See wordsmiths compete or take part yourself. See bellingen writersfestival.com.au.

★ TRUCK SHOW

BIG WHEELS will rumble through Grafton on Saturday, June 10, for the 40th Grafton Truck Show.

The parade down the main street will be followed by an afternoon of big rigs, displays, judging, children’s activities, horse racing and sky divers at Clarence River Jockey Club. Country music legend Adam Eckersley is returning to his hometown for an evening concert at Grafton racecourse.

★ ORARA VALLEY FAIR

THE 40th Orara Valley Fair will take over Upper Orara Recreation Reserve on Monday, June 12, the Queen’s Birthday holiday.

Live music, dance and entertainment with Tallowood Bush Band, balladeer Errol Gray, woodchopping, farm animals, vintage machinery, hay rides, pony rides, magician, free circus workshops, food, stalls, displays, activities,

GROW YOUR OWN: The Achievable Kitchen Garden Part I is on Sunday, June 25, from 10.30am–12.30pm with gardening guru Steve McGrane at Coffs Regional Community Garden.

children’s races, games and rides. More details online at www.oraravalley fair.com.au.

★ 4WD, CARAVAN AND CAMPING SHOW

COFFS Coast’s 14th four-wheel drive, caravan and camping show will take over Coffs Harbour Racecourse on Saturday and Sunday, June 17–18, from 10am to 4pm. As well as all the exhibitors you would expect, there will be working sheepdogs, a kidzone, a bush balladeer and a reptile show. For details, visit www.grimmo promotions.com.au.

★ STARTUP COFFS COAST

STAY at the forefront of everything. The mid-north coast’s start-up and innovation festival will be held on Saturday, June 17, at C.ex Coffs in Vernon St from 9am to 5pm.

Keynote speakers, start-up alley, pitch competition, innovation lab. More details at

www.startupcoffs coast.com.

★ BOWRAVILLE RACES

NAMBUCCA River Jockey Club is racing at Bowraville Racecourse in Rodeo Dr on June 24.

Experience a true bush race meeting run by an all-voluntary committee, but with all facilities for on-course punting.

Refreshments, food outlets, family and picnic areas.

★ BALD ARCHY

SPOOFING the Archibald Prize for portraiture, the annual Bald Archy Prize exhibition gives free rein to caricaturists and cartoonists to sharpen their pens and pencils on the great and the good, the bad and the ugly side of fame.

See the results at Coffs Harbour’s Bunker Cartoon Gallery until June 11. From June 16 until August 6, the gallery will host a retrospective exhibition drawn from 28 years of the Rotary Cartoon Awards.

★ EAST COAST ENCOUNTER

RE-IMAGINING the arrival of Lt James Cook from an Aboriginal perspective is the aim of this major touring multi-arts exhibition, part of the Australian National Maritime Museum collection, on show at Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery until June 17.

★ MUSIC THROUGH ART

SAWTELL Art Group will present a new open exhibition, Music Through Art, opening at Sawtell Art Gallery at 6.30pm on June 16. For more on the group, visit www.sawtell artgroup.com.au.

★ WILD AND WOMEN

WILD Australia, on show at Grafton Regional Gallery until June 10, shows Aboriginal people who were taken on a wild west-type show tour in the 1890s, plus indigenous artworks from the gallery.

From June 16 to July 29, the gallery will show ARTEXPRESS and Women’s Racing in the

FORD Park, on the banks of the Clarence River, is the location for the monthly Yamba River Market, held on the fourth Sunday of the month (June 25). Free live music featuring emerging local talent and touring bands is a feature of this market, which also has food, books, clothing, jewellery, art, crafts and more.

★ THEATRE OPEN DAY

JETTY Memorial Theatre will hold a social open day and fundraiser at the theatre from 9.30am on Sunday, June 25. Films, live performances, theatre tours, meet performers, dress up, book, DVD and costume stalls, sausage sizzle, refreshments.

★ KITCHEN GARDEN TIPS

GROWING your own food is easy, especially when you get a few simple things right from the start.

ABC local gardening guru Steve McGrane will share the secrets of soil, plants, pests and the movement of nutrients in a biological system in The Achievable Kitchen Garden Part I from 10.30am to 12.30pm on June 25 at Coffs Regional Community Garden.

Get your teeth into Coffs Coast performing arts ARE you a pre-teen or teen who loves musicals yet has been too shy to strut your stuff ? Or maybe you’re more experienced but want to hone your skills.

Perhaps you’re a fabulous singer, but know your acting and dancing could use a bit of help.

Well, if you want to be an all-round performer, Theatre with B.I.T.E. classes are for you.

Sue Lake-Harris recently moved to the region but has been teaching performing arts for years.

She is an accomplished performer herself, having scored roles such as Velma in Chicago, Nancy in Oliver!, and many more.

She has teaching qualifications in the field as well as the experience to back those up – not

just as a performer but as a theatre operations manager, director, producer, and writer.

Students will learn everything they need to know in order to develop into capable triple threat, all singing-dancing-acting performers.

Sue can help you realise the potential of your strengths and deal with weaknesses in a supportive and

constructive fashion.

You will also learn the ropes of theatre etiquette, audition skills and material selection, and you will get to perform.

Theatre with B.I.T.E.’s patron, the legendary Toni Lamond, said, “Coffs Harbour arts/ entertainment scene gets the proverbial shot in the arm, with the advent of Sue

Lake-Harris’ performing arts group, aptly titled Theatre with B.I.T.E.” “Dynamo Sue with her first-hand knowledge of the pros and cons of performing, is an excellent choice as a guide to young hopefuls, taking the first step on the not always smooth journey to possible acting stardom,” Ms Lamond said.

“I am privileged to be

asked to be patron to this project. Sue shares my love and dedication to the business and I am honoured to be a part of it.”

Classes start in May and run for the equivalent of a semester (two full terms).

See the ad for contact details and make an enquiry – you have nothing to lose and a lot to gain!

Coffs and Clarence

Monday, May 29, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Have you been worrying about your denture?

Is it time for a check-up, p, clean and p polish?

Restore your smile and regain confidence in speaking and eating.

Reduce food collecting under your denture.

Now is the time for a denture reline.

A denture reline is the process of taking an existing denture you may or may not be wearing, and refitting it to the shape and size your gums are TODAY. The result, a comfortable secure denture with a nice, sealed fit. This will also reduce premature uneven wear of the denture teeth, giving the denture its full life span.

Relining a denture usually takes just one day, consisting of just two appointments – morning and afternoon.

After wearing a denture for some time, or after having teeth removed, the gums under which the denture sits continues to shrink away. This is called gum resorption and is a natural process of the body. For longevity of your denture, it’s best to

have your denture relined every two to three years.

Having your denture assessed for a reline, or speaking to us about any query you have, starts by making an appointmemt with us today.

No referrals are necessary to visit the Coffs Harbour Community Denture clinic, and we deal direct to the public offering you a range a prosthetic teeth options crafted on-site in our very own dental laboratory. Working with the Prosthetist treating and making your denture, gives you the peace of mind that your specific needs are well looked after,leaving no questions unanswered and providing expert follow-up aftercare as needed.

Located in peaceful Glynn Ave, Coffs Harbour, enjoy the convenience of ground level on site parking and a public bus stop at the door.

For enquiries or appointments, please call Coffs Harbour Community Denture Clinic: 02 66 992737

Seniors 27

28 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 29, 2017

Money How to build a portfolio that fits you

YOUR mix of investments should be based on reasonable returns over your desired time frame and at an acceptable level of risk.

Short-term investments (1–3 years), medium-term, investments (4–6 years), long-term investments (seven or more years), and retirement investments.

■ Your investment options: Check out the investment, check fees and charges, check legal and tax issues.

■ Short-term investments: A short-term investor should be looking for investments with: risk (no risk of losing your money), volatility (very low risk that the value of your savings will drop) and expected return (4–6% per year is the

long-term average return).

Suitable products could be: Online savings account (if you could need the cash at any time). Term deposit (if you know how long your money can be locked away).

Don't let it roll-over automatically as it may not be in your best interests. These products could be suitable because the money is available but they still give a reasonable return.

Ask yourself: How

quickly will I be able to get my money when I need it? Is it easy to add more savings? Am I getting a good interest rate?

■ Medium-term investments: Medium-term investors should look for investments with: risk (low to medium-level possibility of losing money), volatility (medium – capital value could go up or down 20% in a year) and expected return (6–7% per year on average over 10 years). A suitable product could

be a balanced investment option in a managed fund. If your time frame is closer to four years, a more conservative investment may be suitable.

This could be suitable because: It is expected to provide better returns than a bank account over the same period. Any short-term periods of negative returns should grow back over the period that you are investing. It is easy to add money to the investment.

Ask yourself, can I cope with some risk in order to let my money grow over the medium term?

More info is provided at the website this article was sourced from: moneysmart.gov.au.

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Know the risk and the returns THINK MONEY PAUL CLITHEROE AS INVESTORS, we all want to earn high returns.

However, big gains go hand in hand with increased risk – something that’s especially important for the thousands of Australians who hold their retirement savings in a self-managed super fund (SMSF).

A recent report by AMP Capital found SMSF trustees expect their super to earn an average return of 10.9% this year.

Yet only one in five SMSFs have made changes to their portfolio to achieve this result. In fact, 55% of SMSFs have switched to lower risk investments out of concerns about market volatility.

With these findings in mind, it’s worth looking at the two main types of investments to see how returns are impacted by risk.

Income assets, also known as conservative investments, include cash-based investments like term deposits, which provide income on a regular basis.

The drawback is that the return on cash is typically low because there’s less risk of losing your money. Right now for example, you’d be lucky to earn 3% on a term deposit.

That’s not to say income assets aren’t worth having. What you need to consider is how much of your money you should invest in low risk/low

return investments.

Growth assets on the other hand, include property, shares, both international and Australian, and units in a managed fund that invests in these assets.

The appeal of growth investments is that they offer ongoing income in the form of rent, dividends and distributions (in the case of managed funds) but they also offer capital growth plus some tax breaks.

As a guide to potential returns, Australian shares have delivered gains of 17.24% over the past 12 months – far eclipsing cash investments.

The downside to growth investments is increased risk. Capital gains are by no means guaranteed and, while there will be periods when markets skyrocket, there will also be times when markets dip.

It’s very rewarding to see the value of your growth assets climb. But you need to be able to withstand a fall in the value of your investment.

The appropriate mix of conservative and growth assets will vary from person to person.

However, for SMSFs, especially those in the accumulation stage, having a high concentration of low-risk assets could see you struggle to reach your retirement goals.

The key is to find the blend of risk and return that you’re comfortable with.

Paul Clitheroe is a founding director of financial planning firm ipac, Chairman of the Australian Government Financial Literacy Board and chief commentator for Money Magazine.

Coffs and Clarence

Monday, May 29, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Living

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

Trades & Services

Cars

Kitchens

BEWARE OF SCAMS

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Be wary if the number in the ad is disconnected.

If the buyer/seller says the number is disconnected because they are overseas, ask for a landline phone number at their current location as well as a mobile phone number.

All contact details of the person buying or selling the car should be verified to ensure they are genuine.

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Don’t waste your weekend trying to sell a car with a sky-high price tag. Attract the buyers with a price that fits the product.

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Give your kitchen a facelift!

Buyers and sellers should be cautious of possible scams when buying or selling a vehicle.

More information is available at scamwatch.gov.au

Seniors 29

PERFECT SOLUTION: Granny flats can be easily modified to suit your individual needs.

Independent housing less all the stress THERE is nothing more comforting than being around those we love as we move into the later stages of life.

The current trend in affordable housing is putting a granny flat in the backyard of a relative who can offer support and care while giving you freedom and independence and the opportunity to stay with your life partner, children and grandchildren longer.

Moving into a nursing home can be very

expensive and stressful for you and your family, and places a drain on our already stretched age care system.

With the number of people aged 65 and older set to double by 2055, there has never been a more important time to think about the kind of retirement you want.

Keeping your own independence for as long as you can is significant in ensuring a long, happy and healthy life, and so is having your own place to

call home.

Sometimes we don’t like to think of ourselves as getting older and are often uneasy when it comes to asking for help, which makes a granny flat the perfect solution.

Granny flats can be easily modified to suit your individual needs so every aspect can be taken care of as you age.

Granny flats – a stress-free, affordable housing solution. Visit www.eastcoastgranny flats.com.au.

Financial incentive for older workers

DID you know the Restart wage subsidy is a Federal Government financial initiative designed to encourage employers to hire workers aged 50 and older.

Since 2014 more than 11,900 job placements have been made.

Employers can receive up to $10,000, paid over six months, if they employ eligible job seekers.

The eligibility criteria includes, the requirement that job

seekers must be registered with a recognised employment service provider, such as Jobactive, Disability Employment Services or Community Development Program providers.

Employers can offer full-time or part-time jobs to mature workers that are: ■ For an average of 20 hours a week over the six months of the agreement; ■ Ongoing; ■ Work that complies

with employment standards for the position, for example, is suitable work and pays as a minimum the national award wage; and ■ Traineeships which are also eligible for Restart wage subsidies; The job can’t displace an existing employee, be a commission-based, subcontracting or a self-employment position, or work for immediate family.

See jobsearch.gov. au/for-jobseekers.

30 Seniors Coffs and Clarence G E N E R A L K N O W L E D G E

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puzzles 5

Across 7 Who played the drums on the Beatles’ 1968 recording of “Back in the USSR”? (4,9) 8 Referring to a payment, what phrase from Latin means “for a moral, not legal reason”? (2,6) 9 What (__ lily) is another name for the calla lily? (4) 10 In Harry Dacre’s 1892 song “Daisy Bell”, what mode of transport is suggested for the wedding? (6) 12 An aircraft’s “black box” is usually what colour?

(6) 14 Where in England was Ricky Gervais’s TV hit The Office set? (6) 16 Which American short-story writer honed his skills while serving a prison sentence from 1898?

(1,5) 18 In a children’s rhyme, who came tumbling after Jack? (4) 20 Which tropical plant with large, velvety, bellshaped flowers is related to the African violet? (8) 22 Which British novelist and feminist essayist was a central figure of the Bloomsbury Group? (8,5)

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seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 29, 2017

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Down 1 Which British car maker was acquired by General Motors in 1925? (8) 2 Which king of Wessex is credited with the foundation of the English navy? (6) 3 What is improvised jazz singing, using the voice in imitation of an instrument? (4) 4 Which Japanese admiral planned the attack on Pearl Harbour? (8) 5 What is the capital of Canada? (6) 6 Where was the potato first cultivated, about 4,500 years ago? (4) 11 The importation of what wood in the 1720s led to a revival of carving on English furniture? (8) 13 Which fat ginger comic strip cat made his debut in 1978? (8) 15 What describes the volume by which a liquid container falls short of being full? (6) 17 Which great American inventor (Thomas __) did not learn to talk until he was almost four? (6) 19 In Egyptian mythology, who is the goddess of fertility and motherhood? (4) 21 Which colourful gemstone is mined in Australia?

(4)

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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

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

11

A

M 12

13

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15

16

18

19

V R K L

20

E D

N

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6/5

D D

Note: more than one solution may be possible.

TACIT MAD BEE UPSCALE ICED CLAY NEAR LIGHT

SOLUTIONS

E V O K E

A I D E D

N E E D S

Across: 1. Warp 8. Appraising 9. Flatters 10. Cage 12. Deputy 14. Shiver 15. Fasted 17. Assume 18. Dear 19. Lacerate 21. Throughout 22. Awry.

Down: 2. Adulterate 3. Pant 4. Speedy 5. Pauses 6. Psychics 7. Ogle 11.

Grey matter 13. Ulterior 16. Deluge 17. Anchor 18. Data 20. Rota.

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 20 Very Good 27 Excellent 35

QUICK CROSSWORD

ALPHAGRAMS: ATTIC, BEAMED, CAPSULE, DELICACY, EARTHLING.

A N

C O R A L

437

R E

SUDOKU

5x5

O M E N S

W

WORD GO ROUND

GK CROSSWORD

A T

I R

Down 2. Dilute (10) 3. Gasp (4) 4. Quick (6) 5. Hesitates (6) 6. Mediums (8) 7. Look lecherously (4) 11. Brain power (colloq) (4,6) 13. Hidden, not apparent (8) 16. Downpour (6) 17. Hold in place (6) 18. Information (4) 20. Duty list (4)

Across: 7 Paul McCartney, 8 Ex gratia, 9 Arum, 10 Tandem, 12 Orange, 14 Slough, 16 O Henry, 18 Jill, 20 Gloxinia, 22 Virginia Woolf.

Down: 1 Vauxhall, 2 Alfred, 3 Scat, 4 Yamamoto, 5 Ottawa, 6 Peru, 11 Mahogany, 13 Garfield, 15 Ullage, 17 Edison, 19 Isis, 21 Opal.

Across 1. Bend (4) 8. Valuing (10) 9. Praises insincerely (8) 10. Confine (4) 12. Assistant (6) 14. Tremble (6) 15. Went without food (6) 17. Suppose (6) 18. Costly (4) 19. Cut deeply (8) 21. From start to finish (10) 22. Amiss (4)

WORD GO ROUND

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anew await aware interwar newt RAINWATER rainwear tawa tawnier tinware twin twine twiner wain wait waiter wane want wanter ware warier warn warner warrant warren wart water wean wear weir went weta wine winter wire wirer wren wrier writ write writer

21

Premier Hearing is a local Coffs Harbour hearing services provider owned by Gay Colreavy. Gay is a qualified Audiometrist holding a Practitioner’s authority issued by the Australian Government’s Office of Hearing Services. She is a member of the Australian College of Audiology and the Hearing Aid Audiometrist Society of Australia.

Gay’s focus is on servicing her clients. Every client’s needs are individual. Gay says: “Whether it’s a simple hearing test, or a complex diagnostic assessment, or hearing aid fitting, I aim to give my clients the standard of service that I like to receive when I choose a health professional.

Premier Hearing is all about providing the very best in hearing care. Hearing impairment affects sufferer’s quality of life, but it needn’t.”

contact Gay today to find out how you can improve your hearing and enjoy the sounds of life once again.

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PREMIER HEARING

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urunga, Macksville, Nambucca & Woolgoolga

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Coffs and Clarence

Monday, May 29, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Reviews

Seniors 31

EXPLORE

the meaning of life through this great range of books and movies

Film: Aquatic and very exotic TWELFTH NIGHT A SHIP is wrecked on the rocks.

Viola is washed ashore but her twin brother Sebastian is lost.

Determined to survive on her own, she steps out to explore a new land.

So begins a whirlwind of mistaken identity and unrequited love.

The nearby households of Olivia and Orsino are overrun with passion.

Even Olivia's upright housekeeper Malvolia is

swept up in the madness.

Where music is the food of love and nobody is

quite what they seem, just about anything proves possible.

■ Cast: Daniel Rigby, Tamara Lawrence, Doon Mackichan, Daniel Ezra.

Director: Simon Godwin.

Genre: Theatre.

Country of Origin: UK. Distributor: Sharmill Films.

Release date: Scheduled for June 3.

For theatre times, visit www.majestic cinemas.com.au.

Film: The strange links of love

Special art film showing RAPHAEL – THE LORD OF THE ARTS FOLLOWING the success of Florence and the Uffizi Gallery 3D and St Peter's and the Papal Basilicas of Rome 3D, in collaboration with the Vatican Museums and Magnitudo Film, Sky and Nexo Digital present Raphael – the Lord of the Arts in 3D. This is the first ever film adaptation of Raphael Sanzio and his

art (1483–1520).

The historical reconstructions are inspired by 18th century paintings depicting fragments of Raphael’s life.

Lending his face to Raphael Sanzio for these historical reconstructions is actor and director Flavio Parenti (To Rome With Love, Io sono l’amore, Un Matrimonio).

La Fornarina, the

woman the artist loved, is played by Angela Curri (La mafia uccide solo d’estate), with Enrico Lo Verso as Giovanni Santi and Marco Cocci as Pietro Bembo. ❚ Cast: Flavio Parenti, Angela Curri, Enrico Lo Verso, Marco Cocci.

Director: Flavio Parenti.

Genre: Documentary.

Length: 90 mins.

For theatre times, visit www.majestic cinemas.com.au.

FRANTZ, the latest film from beloved French director Francois Ozon, is a “richly imagined” (Hollywood Reporter), hypnotic tale of love and remembrance in the wake of the First World War. In what critics are calling “Ozon’s best film in years” (IndieWire), Frantz explores the strange bond that forms between a grieving German widow and the mysterious Frenchman she meets at her fiance’s grave.

Featuring a lead performance from Paula Beer, this “sumptuous period drama” (The Guardian)

has drawn comparisons to Christian Petzold’s Phoenix and heralds a powerful new work from a master craftsman.

■ Cast: Pierre Niney, Paula Beer, Ernst Stotzner. Director: Francois Ozon.

Genre: Drama, History, War. Classification: PG, 114 mins.

Consumer advice: Mild themes and violence. Special note: Subtitles.

For theatre times, visit www.majestic cinemas.com.au.

Film: Retribution rivals MY COUSIN RACHEL A young Englishman plots revenge against his mysterious, beautiful cousin, believing she murdered his guardian.

But his feelings become complicated as he falls under the spell of

her charms.

■ Cast: Sam Claflin, Rachel Weisz, Holliday Grainger.

Director: Roger Michell.

Release date: June 8.

Visit www.majestic cinemas.com.au.

Book: Nursing in the 1970s 'Over time, I nursed victims of war, the posh, the poor, the famous and the infamous... Oh, the stories I can tell!'

TO a young girl, the life of a student nurse sounds exciting, but with long hours and short shrift, it’s never easy.

So when Maggie Groff defies her parents’ wishes and embarks as a student nurse at London’s Kings College Hospital, she must quickly get to grips with the demands of her chosen career.

It’s sink or swim.

In this delightful romp through time, played out against the march of feminism and the fashion, music and movies of almost half a century ago, we follow Maggie’s highs and lows as she struggles with stern ward sisters and wilful patients.

Eventually she qualifies as a registered nurse and sets sail for an Australia adventure.

From nursing at a poor London housing estate and working as an in-house nurse at glamorous Selfridges to treating injuries on the

Great Barrier Reef and becoming an industrial nurse at the iconic Sydney Opera House, Maggie shares her stories of mistakes and mayhem, tea and sympathy.

The spotlight also lights up the life-affirming moments that made it all worthwhile.

■ The author Maggie Groff is an award-winning novelist, columnist and non-fiction writer living and working in Australia.

As a young woman in England, she trained as a state-registered nurse in

London before securing a position as an in-house nurse at Selfridges.

From there, Maggie went on to pursue a richly varied and at times unusual nursing career.

Aware her daughter had no knowledge of her working life prior to becoming an author, she was inspired to write this memoir.

■ Not Your Average Nurse: The Entertaining True Story of a Student Nurse in 1970s .

Publisher: William Heinemann Australia RRP: $34.99.

32 Seniors Coffs and Clarence

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 29, 2017

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