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News – Healing power of song News – Memories shared News – For the love of a child Community group guide Living Feature – 2019 Qld Seniors Week Wanderlust Wellbeing Money Classifieds Motoring Puzzles

2019 Qld Seniors Week feature

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

Abundance of choice! Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor THE highlight of this month’s edition is our Seniors Week lift-out. Thanks to friends, readers, advertisers and colleagues who have supported the production of our special feature, which includes a Calendar of Events detailing the enormous range of activities, concerts and performances available during Seniors Week, together with interesting articles ranging from accommodation to travel. Seniors Week is supported by the Queensland Government through its distribution of grants for activities that encourage us to extend ourselves and our world by trying out something new and beneficial. I thought my friend Matt Eliott expressed it well when he wrote on his Instagram account: “At the tender age of 63, I can say one of the biggest traps of growing older is a narrowing of one’s world. I see it already in the people of my age in my life: seeking out fewer new experiences or new people, cultivating an increased need for familiarity.” I think new experiences can be anything from checking out a new

book, joining a choir or becoming accomplished in the ancient art of tai chi – and in Seniors Week there is an abundance of opportunities – just look inside our feature. This month we lead with Aussie actor Bryan Brown’s new movie and an interview where he expresses his delight at making a film specially for we older folk. Further on, there’s the courageous story of Shelley Argent and the motivation that transformed her life from a suburban mum to an activist. In our Wanderlust section, our regular travel correspondents John and Yvonne Gardiner share their colourful travels in Norway, while fellow world explorer Paul Coffey gives a taste of the unusual with a story and photos showcasing the capital of Azerbaijan.

CONTACT US General Manager Geoff Crockett – 07 5430 1006 geoff.crockett@news.com.au Editor Gail Forrer – 07 5435 3203 gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Executive Tracy O’Connor – 0438 478 204 tracy.oconnor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Online Get your news online at www.seniorsnews.com.au Advertising, editorial and distribution enquiries Phone: 1300 880 265 or (07) 5435 3200 Email: advertising@seniorsnewspaper.com.au or editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Location: 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore 4558 Website: www.seniorsnews.com.au Subscriptions Only $39.90 for one year (12 editions) including GST and postage anywhere in Australia. Please call our circulations services on 1300 361 604 and quote “Gold Coast Seniors Newspaper”. The Seniors Newspaper is published monthly and distributed free in northern New South Wales and southeast Queensland. The Seniors newspaper stable includes Toowoomba, Wide Bay, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Northern NSW, Coffs and Clarence and Central Coast publications. Published by News Corp Australia. Printed by News Corp Australia, Yandina. Opinions expressed by contributors to Seniors Newspapers are not necessarily those of the editor or the owner/publisher and publication of advertisements implies no endorsement by the owner/publisher.

Living with unique ageing issues

Tribute to great Australian food writer

THANKS: Vale Margaret Fulton, mother of Australian cookbooks.

LEGENDARY Australian food writer Margaret Fulton has died, aged 94. With a professional life spanning well over 60 years, she successfully managed that career and her image in the media over this period, being a role model for generations of Australian food writers. In 1983, she was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia. In 1997, she was inducted into the World Food Media Awards Hall of Fame and

named as one of the National Trust’s original 100 Living Australian National Treasures. Even more than that, though, she was trusted. Margaret Fulton, indeed, built her career on the provision of sound, trustworthy cookery advice. And she knew it. In 1980, reflecting on her career, she recognised that her brand was built on reliability rather than novelty or extravagance: “I believe

I’m doing the right thing by not being flamboyant. I know that’s the success of my business”. Fulton began her career in World War II as a cookery demonstrator with the Australian Gas Light Company. She gained valuable experience in retail and running the kitchen and homewares section of David Jones – before joining then-popular Woman magazine as a food writer in 1954.

At this time, she was also completing a professional cookery course at the East Sydney Technical College, largely based on classical French cookery. In The Margaret Fulton Cookbook, she wrote: “I have always believed that good food and good cooking are part of all that is best in life, all that is warm, friendly and rewarding.” Extract from ‘The Conversation’ - author: Prof. Donna Lee Brien

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

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Healing power of song Young and old join together in universal language of music Tania Phillips IT’S never too late to learn to sing and enjoy the benefits and fun of singing in a choir, according to musician Chris James. Chris and his partner, Jenny, run community choirs Voices On Fire in three locations these days with an aim to “provide a safe and supportive environment for people to discover and enjoy their voices – no prerequisites”. “After working with the benefits of voice and expression in speaking and singing for many years, Jenny and I started running community choirs over four years ago,” Chris said. “We run them in Lismore, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The Gold Coast choir started over a year ago.” Chris said part of the overall joy came from creating a strong sense of community.

“There is a strong community purpose about bringing people together and the joy of when we all unite on an equal footing, so to speak,” Chris said. Chris and Jenny’s choirs are multi-generational and open to everyone. “We have five-year-olds to 80-year-olds coming … you don’t have to know how to sing,” Chris said. “We have many that think that they can’t sing come and amaze themselves with how easy it is and how the group sounds. “We get together to sing in our regular choir sessions and are always open for community events for the choirs to sing and perform at.” Both Chris and Jenny admit that music and singing has been a very big part of their lives. “I have been teaching internationally about the natural healing power of sound, and helping people discover their voices for over 30 years,” Chris said.

ONE VOICE: Chris James (with guitar strap) and members of the Gold Coast Community Choir. “We have run professional development courses, I also offer private voice and expression sessions for singing and speaking from my music studio.” They have just returned from teaching a summer

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school in Beijing, China. “Music is a universal language that we can easily experience together,” Chris said. Info for choirs or events:admin@ chrisjames.net.”

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COVER STORY

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

Brown puts

Palm Beach is easy to relate to Tracey Johnstone

PALM BEACH: A good start to long weekend party.

Photo: Elise Lockwood

WELCOME! “Come on in and join the party,” says Bryan Brown. The backdrop is a glorious Sydney summer day of sparkling blue water and crystal clear skies. The lunch table is piled high with a sumptuous feast. The guests are arriving to celebrate a significant birthday. They’re boisterous, full of energy and excitement at being reunited after a long time apart. While you’re not actually seated at the table, but rather sitting in a cinema, you feel as though you are in fact there in person as the 11 guests gather round the table, anticipating a weekend of shared memories and new connections.

“I made it for you,” Brown, 72, said of his role as the co-producer. “It was made like, let’s put a movie out there that my age group can relate to.” While his wife Rachel Ward was the director, Brown said she had no choice in casting him in the lead role. “I own the movie. I asked her to direct it,” he laughed. Let me introduce you to the Palm Beach guests. There’s Frank, played by Brown. The quintessential Australian actor is the linchpin of the movie. He’s retired, depressed and living a complicated life. “That’s what we are facing out there,” Brown said. “People who are retired or sell their business and they have been active all their lives. It’s like: ‘What will I do? I’m lost. I have no purpose’.” His wife of 30 years, Charlotte (Greta Scacchi), is trying to deal with menopause. Friend and musician Billy (Richard E Grant) is struggling with a life of professional failure, while

his actress wife Eva (Heather Mitchell) is now only being offered grandmother roles. Another friend, journalist Leo (Sam Neill), has health problems and his wife Bridget (Jacqueline McKenzie) is trying to work out if Leo is planning on leaving her and her daughter Caitlyn (Frances Berry). Frank and Charlotte are two different characters. Their daughter Ella (Matilda Brown) is a successful doctor, while son Dan (Charlie Vickers) is struggling to find his way in life and isn’t being helped by Frank’s high expectations on what that way should be. Joining them is Holly (Claire Van Der Boom), the daughter of their old band’s singer Roxy. The buddying young singer is also struggling to find her way and has brought along a surprising new playmate, sheep farmer Doug (Aaron Jeffery). The three-day party has all the hallmarks of a fabulously relaxed, liquid, long weekend – until the veneer is scratched. Deep

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on seniors hat for role secrets emerge that drive the friendships, and partners, away from each other. So many of the conversations in Palm Beach resonate with me as a viewer. Each of the characters are realistic, their stories drawing out the challenges of changing times and dealing with ageing. Think back to when you have attended a reunion of old friends. How often has the conversation delved deep into the past and at other times skirted the realities of your shared experiences? “I had gone through a period of anxiety and seen a psychologist about it as I didn’t know what the hell was happening to me,” said Brown, who was roughly 65 at the time of such a reunion. “It was during that period leading up to a Christmas that I had together with some other men. “One had lost his job and one had sold his business. “Of those characters, none necessarily reflect

ENSEMBLE EFFORT: A scene from Australian movie Palm Beach. things that I might be dealing with now, but I can recognise in those characters there... “Take Richard Grant’s character – a musician at his age, they’re all going to the young guys for music, he’s doing diaper ads. “You know, I have

mates that are older actors that would love to be acting, but there aren’t roles for them.” Brown said his children totally understood the issues the older actors reveal in Palm Beach. Two of them were involved in the movie – actress Matilda, who he

has worked with several times previously, and graphic artist Joe. “They have always mixed with older people,” he said. “They have seen relationships break up; they understand how painful they are and how real they are.”

Photo: Elise Lockwood

When Brown turned 70, Matilda observed in her father that age was just a number – it’s more about how you live your life. He’s now a grandfather to Matilda’s nine-week-old son Zan. “I’m handling it pretty good,” the veteran actor said.

“I am still doing things and still looking for things to do, and people are silly enough to still ask me to do things.” Brown’s next acting project is the second series of Bloom for Stan. He’d like to do more movies around seniors as he sees many more stories to be told. As he heads out to go surfing, walking, doing thrice-weekly pilates classes, and belatedly wearing a sun hat, he says: “I am not aware that I am getting older. Except when I watch Palm Beach and realise that I am”. Brown said he had never let age determine what he did. “We have got to find a way to step around that as a generation,” he said. The movie beautifully raises contemporary seniors issues as relationships are tested, dissolved and somehow reunited. “It’s a story about us getting through things and that there is plenty of life in front of us to enjoy,” Brown said. Palm Beach is in cinemas this month.

NEWS

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

Memories shared for fundraising

Bridal parade – seven gowns over six decades Tania Phillips HIGH tea, brides and breast cancer fundraising were the order of the day at the Project Pink Bridal High Tea event at Aveo The Domain Country Club, Ashmore late last month. More than 115 people took a trip down memory lane as residents showcased their wedding dresses, as well as sharing memorabilia, photos and albums from their wedding days – all in the name of charity. It was a chance to drag those old wedding photos

from the wardrobe and share memories with family and new friends. Guests dressed up on the day, enjoying canapes and live music before a bridal parade showcased seven bridal gowns spanning six decades. The gowns, supplied by Aveo staff and residents, were modelled by residents and their daughters and granddaughters. According to Aveo The Domain Country Club community manager Andrew Keating, the idea was to share memories while raising money.

“The high tea created the opportunity for our Gold Coast retirees to celebrate and share memories with both other residents and their families, whilst raising money towards the PA Research Foundation Breast Cancer Institute, as part of the charity initiative Project Pink,” Mr Keating said. “At Aveo, we’re committed to providing residents with a vibrant range of community activities and amenities, encouraging intergenerational harmony and socially rich

PINK LADIES: Enjoying the bridal high tea are Margaret Melia, Julie Molloy, Ilona Smith and Pauline McCarthy. Photos: Contributed experiences.” Aveo apartment supervisor Diann Richards said the day ended up being a lot of fun for all involved and created new memories out of old. “The event was a wonderful opportunity for our residents to reminisce and celebrate fond memories,” Diann said. “Many residents dressed up for the occasion, enjoying live music, a delicious high tea and cheered on fellow residents and their children as they headed down the catwalk in wedding gowns. “Both residents and Aveo staff were in high spirits and it was a great morning enjoyed by all.”

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For the love of a child Why Shelley Argent became an activist Gail Forrer “THERE are times parents should stand behind their child, other times they should stand beside them, but this was my time to stand in front of James and fight for his right to be seen as an equal.” These were the words that sent Shelley Argent into battle to ensure her son James, who came out as gay in 1995, would have the same rights, the same opportunities, the same protection as everyone else in Australia. As co-author Leanne Edmistone wrote in the foreword to Shelley’s life story titled Just a Mum: “She was just a mum who wanted both her sons – one gay and one straight – to be treated equally by the law and society.” The book recounts Shelley’s life, from her childhood spent in a poor, dysfunctional 1950s Brisbane family to the woman who went on to disrupt the highest echelons of Australia’s social and political establishments. Last month, Shelley and Leanne’s family, friends and fans gathered at Brisbane’s Avid Book Store for the book launch. For those not familiar with Shelley’s personality, there was a short introduction written in point form with white chalk on a large blackboard. It read: “Always has an open house; Ring any time; Love a coffee and a chat; Pretty good cook.’’ At the launch, Shelley’s engaging personality gave an insight into her warm

heart, enormous love for family and her innate traits of stubbornness and determination that supplied her with the courage to walk the talk of equality, confront discrimination, lobby politicians and march as the sole mum among the LGBTQ+ community. But Shelley did not just ask wider society to respect the rights of her son, she expected the same from family and friends and she relates that all but one were able to do so. “There was only person who didn’t agree with me.” For Shelley that was a deal-breaker that ended their long relationship. Not withstanding her unwillingness to compromise on this issue, Shelley understood that acceptance can take time. Referring to situations when children announce their coming out, she wrote: “After the initial shock, parents will often go through the five stages of grief – denial, anger, bargaining, depression and, hopefully, eventually, acceptance. “Just as it takes our children time to accept their sexuality, so too will it take parents. “There is a lot of someone or something to blame. “Did we smother him/her. Did we spoil him/her? Did we spend enough time with them as children? Is it my fault? Is God punishing me? “The only truth is that a child is born as they are – not groomed, encouraged or turned gay.” Just a Mum also includes her long, happy

UNBREAKABLE BOND: Long-time gay rights advocate Shelley Argent and her son James. marriage and partnership with Don, dealing with sexual abuse endured by her son and the joy of academic achievement. Shelley studied Social Sciences at QUT and graduated in 1997 as a mature-age student, a path that enhanced her understanding and ability to challenge the system. Nevertheless, Shelley said one unlikely thing she was able to use to her advantage was her conservative, middleclass suburban housewife appearance. “It reassured so many parents, who were expecting to be greeted by a cheesecloth and silver bells type personality,’’ she said. One father she had arranged to meet actually walked past her, thinking he would be meeting “a woman with shaved head,

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Photo: Russell Shakespeare

Service’s youngest sergeant, had fewer rights than the people he locked up. The only legal right he held in Queensland was to

be gay without fear of arrest. “It was a discrepancy I often highlighted during my lobbying,” she wrote. Shelley’s journey as a campaigner for equal rights resulted in her receiving an OAM in 2006 and took her to places and people she could have never imagined in her Brisbane childhood. She was a regular visitor to Canberra’s politicians and enjoyed marching in the Mardi Gras. But ultimately, her work has been rewarded with state and federal policy legislative reform, culminating in marriage equality in 2017. To obtain a copy of Just a Mum, go to the website shelleyargent.com/or facebook.com/ JustAMumShelleyArgent

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AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

A true garden of good friends

EVERYONE needs friends, and the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens certainly has a lot of them – but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t need more. The Friends of the Botanic Gardens is a volunteer group that, according to founding president and honorary life member Kate Heffernan, serves many important roles within the 32-hectare site at 230 Benowa Rd, Ashmore. She said the friends undertook a lot of honorary activities to promote and support the gardens, and there were many ways to help. Roles include leadership and inspiring the community, planning, planting, propagating and gardening, fundraising, coordinating events, education and visitors

services (including guiding and children’s programs). They are also involved in a range of technical aspects including assisting with plant collections, records and the herbarium as well as creative activities including arts and crafts and floral arranging using Australian native plants. For Kate, a horticulturist by trade thanks to a grandfather who regularly took his young grand-daughter for walks to Lane Cove National Park, the garden is a great passion. “We started off in 1997 as a group fighting to get a garden going on the Gold Coast,” she said. “We were a group of 12 people back then, and now – 21 years later – we have 12 sub-groups within the friends of the

GREEN THUMBS: Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens president Alex Jakimoff with founding president Kate Heffernan installing interpretation signs. Friends have raised funds for 30 large interpretation signs and more than 100 small graphic signs through fund raising and generous donors. garden.” Kate said the garden itself was proof of the power of volunteers, and although it now also had council staff employed to help maintain it (something she and the friends are proud of), volunteers still play a major role in running the

garden which showcases and preserves local native species from Lismore, out to Beaudesert and north to the Sunshine Coast. She said what had been created over the past two decades was “an oasis in the centre of the Gold Coast that you

don’t expect”. Kate herself is employed one day a week by the council but is still heavily involved with the Friends of the Garden group and despite now living over the border, spends time volunteering in a number of different capacities, from helping

to train guides to working with media. For more information about the gardens or becoming a volunteer, head to goldcoast.qld.gov.au/ thegoldcoast/ botanical-gardens -24658.html.

Rallying for Oz squash

MORE than 600 squash players from across Australia are set to converge on the Gold Coast for this year’s Australian Masters Squash Championships in early September. The Queensland Masters Squash Association is hosting the titles for the first time in eight years and has been hard at work preparing for the event to be held from September 2-13 at three Gold Coast venues. Association president Robyn Prentice said the organising committee was excited and ready to go. “QMSA was designated as the host state by Australian Masters Squash Association and commenced 12 months ago with the formation of the organising committee to bring together an event that is exceeding all expectations,” Robyn said. “More than 600 masters squash players ranging in age from 35 to 90 years will come together for the two weeks of the event, which takes in individual championships in each age group, followed by the interstate teams series. “Entries from all Australian states together with international entries from USA, New Zealand and Japan will bring together former

‘‘

Lifelong friendships and camaraderie built over years of squash tournaments across Australia.

READY, SET, GO: Robyn Prentice (front left) and her team of organisers are excited about the upcoming Australian Masters Squash Championships on the Gold Coast. Photo: Contributed international players, Australian and world champions to show their prowess, competitive spirit and sportsmanship as they meet and share lifelong friendships and camaraderie built over years of squash tournaments across

Australia and the world.” Matches will be at the Carrara, Nerang and Gold Coast squash centres. “The event has been assisted by a much-appreciated grant from Gold Coast City Council together with many private sponsors –

Ray White Holidays, Halcyon Greens Pimpama, Kuber Tax Solutions, CNW Electrical and Bank of Queensland – together with a host of Gold Coast businesses who have supported the event with their generous donations,” Robyn said.

“The public are welcome to view, free of charge, some of the world’s best masters squash players. Matches will be live streamed during the event for those enthusiasts unable to attend.” Robyn said record

numbers meant the event was a major boost to the Gold Coast economy but also allowed participants to catch up with friends they had made through the years, as well as having health benefits. “Squash is a vibrant lifelong sport, keeping enthusiasts fit, healthy, interacting with like-minded friends, travelling the world,” she said. It has certainly been a lifelong sport for Robyn, who turns 75 this year and has been playing at a high level for more than 50 years, including winning masters world titles. A coach for the past 40 years and head coach of Q Squash Southern region, she said the championships would be a chance to not only catch up with old friends but also with her son who was coming up from Victoria to take part.

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Job loss

Staying in the workforce IN THE second part of this special series of staying in the workforce, we look at how to reverse attitudes. Re-framing the attitudes of mature-aged workers to recognise their value in the workplace is part of the change process. Stereotypes around older workers exist, but if they accept those stereotypes they limit themselves before even trying to adopt new skills. “I advise people to catch themselves if they are saying ‘I’m too old to do that’ or anything like that,” Curtin University’s Dr Petery said. “I would say ‘why are you too old? Who says that you are too old to do that?’ ” While the ability for abstract reasoning declines with age, the opportunities for mature-aged workers exist in jobs where employers are looking for the advantage of crystallised intelligence, gained from experience and wisdom, which increases with age. “We know that if you have work that is cognitively challenging and engaging, that it can be protective of your cognitive abilities as you progress into old age, and can improve your cognitive abilities into old age,” Dr Petery said. Changing attitudes also involves willingly engaging in reverse mentoring which can help to reduce workplace bias. “We have five generations in the workforce,” maturious.com.au’s David Tarr said. “We should be thinking around the benefits of generational diversity and how we get synergies between

We can learn and change Graeme Wilson MENTORING: Recognising you need mentoring is a good place to start. Photo: damircudic different age cohorts that enable that skill transfer to be shared from a younger person to an older person and from them to a younger cohort.” Edith Cowan’s Business School lecturer Dr Julie Nyanjom recommends mature-aged workers approach their workplace with an open mind about being mentored by a younger worker. “Realise mentoring is a co-learning experience,” she said. “Both the mentor and mentee have something to bring to the table which means while you may need mentoring, it doesn’t mean that you don’t have the knowledge about something else more than what you are mentoring on.” Recognising you need mentoring and your younger colleague has the knowledge you need is a good place to start. This is particularly important when you have been out of the workforce for a while. “When you enter a relationship like that, you will find there are fair exchanges between you so that they are able to lean on some of your experiences and you are able to lean on some of theirs,” Dr Nyanjom added.

“As you have those interactions where you are working together to solve problems and working towards a common goal, sharing the rewards and benefits that are achieved, it’s a proven way of reducing any type of bias,” Dr Petery said. An organisation has a role in establishing an enabling environment for reverse mentoring to work successfully. “Practically every organisation has a mentoring program, whether it is written or not,” Dr Nyanjom said. “However, you find most of those mentoring programs have a traditional mentoring approach which explicitly or implicitly indicates that mentors will be older and more experienced. “As long as they have that written into their policies and procedures, or into their organisational culture, you will find, regardless of what the mature age worker comes with into the organisation, it will be challenging for them to get into a mentoring relationship with younger people.” Where the culture moves from not being about age but about experience, older workers will benefit greatly and so will the organisations.

REDUNDANCIES are a fact of life in the modern workplace, and it appears the best way to guard against the shock of losing a job is to actually plan ahead for the possibility. Careers-focused business OnTalent assists Australians with the transition from redundancy, and the key message from Deborah Wilson, General Manager – Careers, Leadership Development & Consulting, is that everyone should be prepared for the possibility.

‘‘

It’s important to always be on the front foot around your career... “I don’t think any organisation is exempt from it, so it’s all about that preparedness,” Deborah said. “Nothing prepares you for the shock you get when it’s you, but the impact isn’t as great if you are already set up to identify and seize new opportunities as they arise “We do have to focus on the job we have now, but we also have to be thinking about what’s next if this doesn’t work out.” While being on the receiving end of redundancy can be

confronting, Deborah said her 30-plus years in the careers field had shown her it was often the catalyst for positive life change. “I believe you shouldn’t actually want to stay in a job forever,” she said. “You do need to move, you need new experiences and learnings.”

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can be good

WORKING HARD: Job security is good, but being prepared for the future is even better. Photo: RgStudio

COMBINED ROLES: The mentor and mentee have something to bring to the table. Photo: samotrebizan

Snapshot of Aussies in the workforce

themselves unexpectedly looking for new employment, Deborah said it was important not to buy into any perception that once you’ve hit 50 you’re no longer valuable in the workforce. “People say to me ‘but I’m over 50’ and I say ‘well, big deal’. So what,” she said.

“We had a lady in her early 70s who was made redundant and she got another job within a couple of months.” Deborah does not believe there is bias from employers against older workers or any growing trend towards them being made redundant. “I think it depends on

your skills and your attitude,” she said. If facing a transition after redundancy, Deborah said it was important to take whatever help was on offer from businesses like OnTalent. “Most people come in with their shoulders down a bit but leave with a far better outlook.”

top reason respondents cite that would encourage them to remain in the workforce. ■ Flexible working hours is the most common tool organisations use to retain older workers (76%). ■ More than half (56%) of the survey respondent organisations don’t have a transition-to-retirement strategy in place. ■ Respondents indicated the main advantages of recruiting older workers are the experience they bring (76%) and the professional knowledge they have acquired (68%). ■ Fewer 2018 respondents than 2014 reported their organisation ensures job advertising content attracts a full range of ages, and date of birth details are excluded from application forms. ■ Common recruitment practices for attracting older workers involve flexible work arrangements. * Source: ABS

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to guard against being a logical candidate for redundancy was to focus on keeping their job skills current. “You’ve got to invest in yourself,” she said. “It’s important to always be on the front foot around your career and career development.” For those who did find

AUSTRALIANS are increasingly working to older ages. ■ In 2016, one in eight older people were engaged in employment, education or training.* ■ By January 2018, Australians aged 65 and over had a workforce participation rate of 13% (17% for men and 10% for women), compared with 8% in 2006 (12% for men and 4% for women).* ■ The rate is likely to continue to increase as the retirement intentions of Australians change.* ■ In 2004-05, just 8% of Australians aged 45 and over intended to work until age 70, compared with 20% in 2016-17.* ■ In 2016-17, the average intended retirement age was 65 (66 for men and 64 for women), with just under 1 in 4 (22%) men aged 45 and over intending to work beyond 70.* AHRI and Australian Human Rights Commission Employing Older Workers (2018) reported: ■ Flexible work is the

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

Community notes

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

GOLD COAST BRIDGE CLUB

THE BCBC, on the highway in Surfers Paradise, will hold beginners lessons starting August 14 at 9am, for six weeks. We welcome learners and bridge players at all levels. Our experienced teachers will also teach you how to brush up your bridge or learn new skills. We provide coaching at all levels and conduct bridge sessions six days and two nights a week. Join “the friendly club” and meet interesting people from all walks of life. Take part in our many social occasions. For more, phone Lynley (07) 5538 3112 or 0418 984 856.

COOKING CLASSES

LEARN how to create delicious, dietitian approved meals for one or two people in this hands on group workshop. Proudly funded by the Logan City Council. Held on August 8, from 10am, the Cooking for 1 or 2 class costs $5. Held at Loganlea Community Centre. To book phone (07) 3257 4393. The second hands-on course, Cooking for the whole family on a budget, is being held on September 12 from 10am. Cost: $5. Held at Loganlea Community

Centre. To book, phone (07) 3257 4393.

GROUP FITNESS

Burleigh Heads GROUP Fitness classes are being held at Maher Hall Burleigh Heads Senior Citizens, 42 Matilda Street, Burleigh Heads. Improve fitness, strength and balance. Suitable for men and women, over 50’s and all fitness levels. Tuesdays and Thursdays 9am. Cost is $5. Phone Caroline on 0402 812 227. Robina Exercise for over 50s where you can improve cardio health, strength, co-ordination, balance and general well being. Meet new people. Held at Robina and Clear Island Waters. Phone Rochelle on 0438 333 308.

PROBUS POOCH: A loveable dog was the centre of attention at the monthly committee meetings of the Burleigh Heads Ladies Probus Club.

VIEW CLUBS

Coolangatta/Tweed THE next luncheon will be the August 15 at the South Tweed Sports Club, 11-11.30am start. All ladies are very welcome to come along and enjoy the company of our friendly ladies. We meet on the third Thursday of the month. Guest speaker is Detective Sergeant Brad Foster on safety. Bookings/apologies phone Elaine (07) 5524 4461 on the Monday prior to luncheon.

Logan COME along and join Logan VIEW Club and join the fun like the ladies at our last meeting where we had a soup and slippers lunch meeting. Looking to make friends and support a worthwhile cause? Enjoy lunch, a guest speaker and fun and friendship. We are a small and friendly group that meet on the second Wednesday of each month at Logan Rec Club, Jacaranda Avenue, Kingston, at 11am for a 11.30am start. We now sponsor four Australian children on the Learning for Life Program. This program supports and helps children with their school education from primary through to tertiary. Phone Cheryl on (07) 3711 9146 or go view.org.au. Oxenford / Coomera THE next meeting is on August 16 from 10.30am for 11am, at Pimpama Tavern (Pimpama Shopping Centre), 102 Jacobs Well Road,

GOLD COAST OVER FIFTIES

SIP N SUP CLUB – Gold Coast meets each fortnight at a great restaurants. All men welcome for beer, wine and food. We critique restaurants, have guest speakers but most of all we have a lot of fun. Generally Thursday afternoons, however, there are some evening events. There are 23 meetings per year. For more information, phone Michel on 0412 757 535 or email michel_44@bigpond.com.

PROBUS CLUBS

Burleigh Heads A LOVEABLE charming story dog is the centre of attention at the monthly committee meetings of the Burleigh Heads Ladies Probus Club. The tropical setting lifts the spirits higher and

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Pimpama. Cost is $18. The guest speaker is Tim and Patrick from Newhaven Funerals. New members are welcome. RSVP to Evelyn on 0418 653 642 or oxencoomeraviewclub @gmail.com. Runaway Bay THE club meets on the second Wednesday of the month for lunch at La Piazza restaurant. Enjoy making new friends and listen to interesting speakers. Phone Renata on 0400 652 500. Surfers Paradise THE club supports The Smith Family plus nine Learning for Life students with their school needs. The club holds their meetings and lunch on the second Tuesday of each month at the Southport Golf Club, from 11.30am for lunch at noon. There is always with an interesting guest speaker. New members and visitors are most welcome. For an opportunity to meet new friends and join in our

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illuminates the purpose of the club for the enjoyment of friendship, fellowship and fun in Probus. We meet on the third Wednesday of the month at Burleigh Heads Surf Lifesaving Club. Morning tea is enjoyed at 10am, followed by a meeting at 10.30am, which includes an interesting speaker. Lunch can be ordered. A coach trip or social activity is held on the fourth Wednesday. Visitors welcome. Phone Helga on (07) 5520 2426 or Jennifer 0402 860 650. Burleigh Waters OUR monthly outing was a ‘Christmas in July’ Lunch at Palmer Colonial Golf Club. At our meeting Tash Bennett and Kylie from Queensland Ambulance taught us about CPR (Cardiac Pulmonary Resuscitation). Retired or semi-retired men are invited to join us at club meetings, 10am, on the third Monday of each month at Burleigh Waters Community Centre, 131 Christine Ave, Burleigh Waters. Nominally a men’s club, but wives are very welcome to share the club’s fellowship, friendship and fun at all club meetings and outings. Phone Brian on (07) 5520 6332 or Des on 0434 873 626. Hastings THE next meeting of the Hastings Point/Tweed Coast Probus Club will be held on August 20 at 10am at Tricare Retirement Community, 87 Tweed Coast Road, Hastings Point. The main speaker will be Ingrid Steynberg who for 15 years was a vet and CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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SOUTHPORT MOW SENIOR CITIZENS ASSOCIATION

WE Welcome all over 50s to our activities which include line dancing, new vogue dancing, Scottish, square and tap dancing, tai chi and light exercise. For all activity times go to southportsenior citizens.com or phone Annette on (07) 5537 1377. Membership is $8 per year with each activity

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS costing a low $3. We celebrate Christmas twice a year and organise other social functions throughout the year. Our club motto is “finding friends, fun and fitness”. If you are interested in these three things please come along and join us. We are a very active and friendly club. You can find as at 2 Whitby Street, Southport. Parking is available in Owen Park right behind our hall.

END OF LIFE CHOICES

EXIT International is a voluntary euthanasia group that meets quarterly. Meetings are held at the Robina Community Centre. The next meeting will be held on August 8. Attendees

must be Exit Members. Go to exitinternational.net or phone the local co-ordinator Elaine on 0421 796 713.

U3A

Gold Coast THE U3A Gold Coast Inc office located in Australia Fair, Southport. For only $45, no extra fees, group classes, academic programs, foreign languages, humanities, table tennis and other fitness classes, plus plenty more to choose from. Go to u3agold coast.weebly.com, facebook - U3A Gold Coast Inc Southport, or phone (07) 5591 6671 between 9am-3pm Monday to Friday or email u3agoldcoastinc @bigpond.com.

Major Quilty show opens at GOMA

One of Australia's most acclaimed contemporary artists, Ben Quilty. INTERESTED in the work of a socially engaged contemporary artist committed to art’s capacity to raise awareness and instigate change? Come experience Quilty at Brisbane’s Gallery of Modern Art until October 13. Curated by Dr Lisa Slade, assistant director artistic programs, Art Gallery of South Australia, Quilty is the first major survey in a decade of one of Australia’s most acclaimed contemporary artists, Ben Quilty. Featuring 70 works from the early 2000s to the present, the exhibition includes the artist’s

revisions of the Australian landscape, raw intimate self-portraits, and works inspired by harrowing recent visits to Lebanon, Syria and Greece where he witnessed first-hand the exodus of refugees. In 2011, Quilty visited Afghanistan as an official war artist and, on his return to Australia, he sought the company of servicemen and women who experienced the crucible of conflict and human suffering. He painted their raw emotions during individual sittings in his studio in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales. A selection of these

OOH LA LA: Sorrento Probus Club members enjoy their recent French morning tea.

powerful portraits are featured in Quilty, along with The Last Supper, a series of large, arresting paintings created in 2017 in response to the election of Donald Trump as President of the United States. Among the must-sees are Quilty’s expansive Rorschach paintings including Irin Irinji 2018 and Fairy Bower Rorschach 2012. Using a psychoanalytic tool designed to evaluate personality and emotional function, these monumental paintings explore the dark undercurrent of the Australian psyche, one

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haunted by violence and displacement. All of the multi-layered works in the exhibition demonstrate Quilty’s signature surfaces, thickly smeared, smudged and caked with rich impasto gestures of paint applied with a bold virtuosity. QAGOMA director Chris Saines said Quilty also featured images of the artist’s family and friends, including a series of large-scale sketches of artist Margaret Olley created by Ben on the walls of GOMA in June. “At the same time as Quilty, we are thrilled to present Margaret Olley: A Generous Life at GOMA, a

Queensland-only exhibition of more than 100 works by the late, much-celebrated Australian artist who was a muse and mentor of Quilty’s,” Mr Saines said. “I encourage anyone with an interest in the power of painting to visit GOMA through to October to experience these two free exhibitions.” For the duration of Quilty, a dedicated program of hands-on and multimedia activities for children and families will be presented at the Children’s Art Centre. Developed in collaboration with the artist, his 13-year-old son

Joe and 10-year-old daughter Olivia, Ben Quilty: Family Portrait encourages visitors to create hand-drawn and digital portraits and experience Ben’s work through 3D models of his paintings. Objects from Quilty’s studio, including his paint-slathered work table and coveralls, are featured, along with a video that captures Joe Quilty painting a portrait of his father. Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art, Stanley Place, South Brisbane. Go to qagoma.qld.gov.au/.

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NEWS

A new project ahead

Social rights advocate has much to look back on

FAREWELL: Colleagues say goodbye to age and disability development officer Karen Collins.

The series is on ABC and ABC iView on August 27, September 3, 10 and 17.

“This was my first experience of local government,” she said. “I have worked all across Australia but never for a council before coming here.”

Here she was able to have a small regional focus and see the impact her work has had first-hand, something she has obviously found rewarding.

Her legacy? Karen believes that is the Disability Action plans that she has helped put in place, helping to make the council and the region more inclusive. The plans have had a big impact right across council, something she is rightfully proud of. She is also the woman behind the annual Tweed Shire Access and Inclusion Awards. Launched in 2013, the awards celebrate achievement and innovation in building an accessible community. The awards recognise and acknowledge action by individuals, community groups, organisations and businesses that build and promote a more accessible and inclusive Tweed and culminate in an awards ceremony in December to coincide with the International Day of People with Disability.

Fancy a trip to see the Brisbane Festival? BRISBANE Festival 2019 has come tearing out of the gates with its largest musical line-up to-date, and what better way to kick it off than an opening night party celebrating the 30th birthday of Riverstage. On Saturday,

September 7, Riverstage Birthday Bash will celebrate Brisbane’s iconic outdoor amphitheatre with an electrifying musical experience. Party starters Hot Dub Time Machine will explode onto stage with an

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that encourages physical activity, social interaction, learning and happiness. This social experiment was run by a team of geriatric experts, and an early childhood expert, who analysed and monitored the progress of both groupsthroughout, tracking both the physical and mental changes of the groups. Geriatrician Dr Stephanie Ward, who was a member of the team of experts and has seen the interaction between her five-year-old son and her 101-year-old grandmother, said: “It’s crucial we explore interventions that can restore connection, purpose and joy to the lives of older Australians

For almost a decade after coming to live on the Tweed, she has worked on making sure the region’s disabled have been able to live and work with more freedom in the region.

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Australia. “It’s a bit weird but good,” she laughed, when asked about finally putting up her feet but, if anyone has earned a break, it’s Karen Collins.

Young and old join forces ABC’s new four-part documentary series, Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds, goes to air on August 27. The heart-warming series is based around a unique social experiment where a group of older retirement home residents, aged 78–95, are brought together with a group of pre-schoolers, to see if this inter-generational contact can improve the health and wellbeing of the older people, thus helping them to lead happier, and healthier lives. Over a period of seven weeks, two groups of 11 older Australians and 10 pre-schoolers came together for planned, mixed activities each day in a specially designed pre-school built within a aged care/retirement home. Here they share a structured timetable

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She is also the woman behind the annual Tweed Shire Access and Inclusion Awards

Tania Phillips

A BREAK during the Sydney Olympics led journeywoman and social rights advocate Karen Collins to the place she would ultimately call home. The much-loved Tweed Shire Council aged and disability development officer retired this month after a lifetime of helping people in various roles around Australia. And while gardening and crafting are on the top of the list of “things to do” as part of having a whole six months off in the town she and husband Bill fell in love with during a driving holiday north during the Olympics, for someone with Karen’s experience she already knows there will be other projects. “I’ll probably do a bit of consultation on projects that interest me,” she said. Her retirement marks the end of eight and a half years of service to the Tweed Community and more than 40 years of similar work around

NEWS

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

Principal’s future is still in our schools Tracey Johnstone EVEN in retirement, Brian Ralph keeps his education skills sharp as he strives to facilitate connections between fellow retired high school principals. Mr Ralph, 69, is a key member of the team behind the Principal Futures website, which shares information with current and former principals about preparing for retirement and various post-retirement options including employment and volunteering. The germination of the idea to provide a platform for retired principals to stay connected started during Mr Ralph’s 14-year tenure on the executive of the NSW Secondary Principals Council (SPC). He had written into its constitution the idea of a retired principals group to provide support and advice both to the council and to currently serving principals. But nothing more happened until he retired

in 2009 after 38 years of work, when he pulled out his long list of retired high school principals’ contacts he had acquired. In 2010 he started off with a group of about 130 across NSW, inviting the retired principals to participate in quarterly lunch meetings. “It was obvious that people wanted to stay in contact and feel that they were still valued,” Mr Ralph said. “For those that had been through tough times, often it’s only other principals who’ve had similar experiences that can understand the stress that’s involved. “Our lunches fulfilled a really useful function.” Mr Ralph also shared email with his group about professional news and even job opportunities. In 2015 he was invited to join forces with innovator Cassy Norris, the principal of Ryde Secondary College, who had already set up the Principal Futures Reference Group which was looking at how public school principals could

continue to be engaged post-retirement. A subsequent survey of existing and retired principals revealed 70 per cent of the latter were continuing to work or volunteer using their professional skills up to 10 years after officially retiring. “I chaired the reference group for two years,” Mr Ralph said. “We discussed many ideas and collaboratively developed an outline of those topics we wanted to cover in the website.” He took on the enormous task of creating the Principal Futures website to cover topics across retirement, for keeping in touch socially, post-retirement options, further study options, tours and travel, memories from the past and employment opportunities. From there he corralled a group of volunteers to bring the website to life. The SPC funded the start-up and continues to help out with the website management, which now connects about 370

PRINCIPAL RETIREE: Former high school principal Brian Ralph. current and retired principals. “Brian demonstrated extensive expertise and experience in writing materials of this nature,” Ms Norris added. “He then wrote all the instructions for the writing team and we all got to work on writing sections of the site.” Jobs available for retirees include executive officer roles, leading project teams, providing professional learning to staff, coaching and mentoring existing school

staff. “These people bring extensive knowledge, skills and experience to any work they do,” Mr Ralph said. “It works both ways. People really appreciate their expertise, while on the other hand, the retired principals continue to stay active and engaged in life.” Mr Ralph has put more than 1000 hours into getting the website up and running, and recognises that it is essential to identify a successor to

Photo: Contributed

take his place at some stage. While Ms Norris fields enquiries from those wanting to recruit a retired principal, Mr Ralph continues to manage the website and organise the retired principal meetings, which now include professional learning sessions. He remains an invaluable resource in keeping retired principals informed and engaged in secondary school education in NSW.

Government advice on scams and your super WATCH OUT FOR ATO SCAMS

IF YOU have been affected by an ATO impersonation scam you can report it to us in various ways. ■ Phone scams If you or someone you know has paid or provided sensitive personal identifying information to a scammer, phone 1800 008 540 to report. If you receive a scam phone call or text message and have not paid or provided sensitive personal identifying information to the scammer, you can report the scam via the online form at ato.gov.au/report ascam/#reportscam. ■ Email and text message scams If you receive a suspicious email or text message (SMS) claiming to be from the ATO, forward the entire email to reportemailfraud@ ato.gov.au, take a screen-

open any attachments. If unsure about the status of your PayPal account, use your normal login process to change your password or update your account. ■ New for SMSF There are new services available for SMSF members using the ATO online via MyGov which gives them visibility of their super transactions.

ALERT NOT ALARMED: There are steps to take if you have concerns. shot of the text and email it to reportemailfraud@ ato.gov.au, delete the email or text. Don’t click on a link, open an attachment or download a file. ■ Verifying ATO contact If you are ever unsure whether an ATO interaction is genuine, do not reply. You should phone

1800 008 540. If you have made a payment to an ATO impersonation scammer, make an official report to your local police. If you have given your credit card or bank details to someone who shouldn't have them, contact your bank or financial institution.

If you have paid money into a scammer bank account, contact that bank and lodge a fraud report. ■ Fake PayPal emails Watch out for fake PayPal emails trying to phish your personal info and credit card details. Don’t click on links or

■ Displaying employer contributions for SMSF members ATO online will now display employer contributions made to an SMSF on the Fund Transactions screen and contributions to SMSFs will be displayed as Employer Contributions rather than one of the four existing contribution categories (Super Guarantee, Voluntary Award, and Salary Sacrifice) as SMSFs do not need to report that

level of detail. ■ Other changes When using ATO online via MyGov, members can: ■ See employer contributions reported by their super fund. ■ See their employer’s Super Guarantee obligations on their income statement. ■ See their super fund accounts and balances, and their total super balance as at June 30 of the previous year. ■ Find lost and ATO-held super and transfer amounts into active super accounts. ■ See bring-forward arrangement information for the non-concessional contribution cap. ■ View transfer balance cap details. ■ Elect to release money from super to pay liabilities such as Div 293 and excess contribution tax. ■ Apply to access some super early (in limited circumstances).

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

Enjoy your coffee with no worries

RESEARCHERS have found that our daily dose of coffee doesn’t change a person’s risk of being diagnosed with, or dying from, cancer. That’s good news for about 46 per cent of the Australian population that enjoys drinking coffee. The research by QIMR Berghofer which is published in the International Journal of Epidemiology found that there is no relationship

between how many cups of coffee a person had a day and if they developed any particular cancers. So, for seniors, having an extra coffee each day won’t make a difference to your cancer risk but drinking a lot of coffee can have other health impacts. But don’t get too excited - its potential anti-cancer effect however hasn’t been established yet.

NEWS

DRINK UP: Enjoying a coffee a day is still okay. QIMR Berghofer lead researcher Jue-Sheng Ong said the study also looked at some common individual cancers such as breast, ovarian, lung and prostate cancers and found drinking coffee did not increase or decrease their incidence. “There was some inconclusive evidence about colorectal cancer, where those who reported drinking a lot of coffee had a slightly lower risk of

Photo: SeventyFour

developing cancer, but conversely examination of data from those people with a higher genetic predisposition to drink more coffee seemed to indicate a greater risk of developing the disease,” Mr Ong said. “The disparity in those findings would suggest more research is needed to clarify if there is any relationship between colorectal cancer and coffee.”

QIMR Berghofer’s Statistical Genetics Group Associate Professor Stuart MacGregor said the study had implications for public health messaging around the world. “The health benefits of coffee have been argued for a long time, but this research shows simply changing your coffee consumption isn’t an effective way of protecting yourself from cancer,” Prof MacGregor said.

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For seniors, having an extra coffee each day won’t make a difference to your cancer risk...

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AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

Can’t sleep? Here’s tips for a good night

Living

Meredith Yardley

AGEING WELL: Australia’s CALD community members face common and unique challenges as they age.

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Ageing issues unique

Tracey Johnstone MIGRANTS from non-English speaking backgrounds now make up between 30 and 35 per cent of Australians aged 65 and over. That’s a significant number of people whose ageing issues are both common and unique. For many, not having role models around them as they grow older in Australia presents one of the most complex problems explains chair of the Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA), Mary Patetsos. “Some of them have been here for the majority of their life,” Ms Patetsos said. Migrants have been arriving into Australia

since the turn of the century; many of them came from Afghanistan, eastern and southern Europe, filling jobs in major infrastructure projects like the Snowy Mountains scheme, the Sydney Opera House and railways. “They have often arrived as very young children or 10 or 20-year-olds,” Ms Patetsos added. “They grow up, study, go to work, raise families and then find themselves at 84 or 86 ageing in a country they have migrated to. “They aren’t growing in the village or town or place that they have seen other people growing old in. They are really making their way in a new place.” Where these ageing Australians find they are suffering with dementia or

they aren’t regularly using English in their everyday activities, regressing back to their mother tongue restricts their ability to deal with the range of ageing issues and community services. This is where Aged Care providers have a critical role in overcoming language barriers. Some CALD communities are of such size that they have been able to establish ethno-specific Aged Care facilities, but there is much more support required for migrants living outside of the catchment area of these facilities. FECCA are working to increase the profile of these ageing Australians. “Once you need support, you need to know the system can look

after you so we need to ensure that providers understand that responsibility, that they understand the need to communicate, use translators and interpreted materials and perhaps employ bilingual staff,” Ms Patetsos said. She has noticed some facilities have actively sought the employment of staff fluent in the language prevalent within their clients. Others have encouraged existing staff to learn basic words to help them communicate with their CALD clients. Diversity in the Aged Care workforce is another initiative being rolled out by some providers. “Not all of it is a burden,” Ms Patetsos said. She argues that bringing diversity to the

Aged Care living space can benefit non-CALD residents. She also sees that the well-travelled Baby Boomers will be looking for more interesting experiences as they age. “There are some wonderful examples where Greek or Italian or Italy food, depending on dietary needs, has been introduced into nursing homes and playing some easy games like Bocce and music; it can be fun for all residents,” she added. “Multiculturalism is an advantage for all of us as it makes our life more interesting. If we take it that way it will be less of burden and more of a joy. “We also need to make sure consumers know their rights and are able to access My Aged Care.”

You can feel safe and stay independent with this device BRAND INSIGHTS

PEACE OF MIND: safeTwear medical alert system.

“LOSS of independence can be debilitating for seniors who have spent their entire lives living independently, working jobs and raising families,” Paul Joseph from Emergency Medical Services Pty Ltd, providers of the safeTwear medical alert system, said. “We understand the natural effects of ageing can sometimes make independent living harder. Difficulties with mobility, the risk of accidents and falls and issues such as

isolation and loneliness are just some of the contributors.” This is a core reason behind the decision to combine the safeTwear system with the safeTcare 24/7 response and monitoring centre – ensuring help is always available. The peace of mind for not only the client but their families and friends is immeasurable, not to mention the benefits of having regained independence, including: ■ Feel like an individual: The ability to make choices has a big

impact on self-esteem. ■ Maintain balance and strength: Retaining balance and strength is a huge determining factor in someone’s ability to stay independent and active. ■ Sense of purpose: Loss of independence can be isolating. Seniors who are isolated often develop feelings of hopelessness and depression. There are excellent deals for seniors, including the medical alert device and in some cases lifetime monitoring. To arrange a free demonstration, phone 1300 699 159.

IF YOU don’t sleep well, you may be sabotaging yourself without even knowing it. Good quality sleep is essential for your health. If you don’t sleep well, here are some tips that have been proven to aid the most important 6-7 hours of your day. Preparing your space ■ Unless you are bedridden, get rid of as much technology from your bedroom as you can. These items can release electromagnetic frequencies that can disrupt your sleep patterns. ■ Keep your bedroom cool and dark to help you maximise your natural sleep rhythms. ■ Let our body know you are getting ready to retire by dimming the lights a couple of hours before going to bed. Preparing your body ■ Eat at least three hours before retiring, so your body focuses on relaxing, not digesting. ■ Do any ‘bed readying’ activities, such a cleaning your teeth, a couple of hours before retiring. That way you don’t wake yourself up again to clean your teeth or stack the dishwasher. ■ A bath with lavender oil is always a nice way to relax. Or you can lie on the floor (if you can get there) and stretch your legs up the wall – a sure fire relaxation technique. ■ Avoid caffeine (including black tea) or alcohol close to bedtime as they can keep you awake. ■ Put your devices (phone, tablet) away two hours before retiring. The blue backlight can upset your body’s melatonin release, which it needs to sleep. Preparing your mind ■ Write down anything you might be stressing over – it can wait. ■ If you can’t turn off your mind, think of random items by going through the alphabet, e.g. a for antelope, b for boots... Studies show thinking of random things tells your brain it’s safe to sleep. Learning deep breathing exercises can also slow down that monkey mind and relax the body.

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

FEATURE

C E L E B R AT E S E N IO R S W E E K 2 019 ■ Calendar of events

■ Community living choices ■ Travel ■ Living your best life

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QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019

Enjoy your Seniors Week

Take advantage of many activities and try something new Tracey Johnstone IT’S time to celebrate everything that is great about being a Queensland senior. This year’s unique nine-day Queensland Seniors Week opens the door for all of us to promote positive community attitudes within our seniors communities and in the

broarder community. We can all do our bit towards positive ageing, increasing community participation and enhancing our community connections during August 17-25, and beyond. In this year’s Seniors News feature you can discover all that there is on offer in your region. Why not set a target of doing one Seniors Week

activity each day of this year’s annual celebration? Learn, experience, enjoy and celebrate all things senior. Grab a friend and take them with you as you discover a whole new world of multicultural, intergenerational and lifestyle activities, events, recreation, sport, art, craft, history and future. Visit your local library, join a new recreation

group, learn a new craft skill or attend a show. The list is endless. The only limitation is you. Keep an eye out and an ear open to opportunities for longer-term connections with interesting groups and activities. The week is a great chance to experience something new and to continue to enjoy that experience well beyond

Seniors Week. The signature event this year is the Centenarian Portrait Project by Teenagers which is a unique arts initiative that provides a platform to develop intergenerational friendships, connections and understanding. To find out about events outside your region, go to qldseniorsweek.org.au or phone 1300 738 348.

OK, now it’s YOUR turn to party!

Community spirit and values drive our service Life Without Barriers provides more than support services – it provides trusting relationships

Home Maintenance ■ Queensland Community Support Scheme – which started on July 1 this year to provide those clients under the aged of 65 who are ineligible for other support services. “Our clients are our biggest supporters,” Emma said. “One lady said since the day she saw a bus with Life Without Barriers on the side drive down her street, and decided to give them a call, ‘it changed everything’ for her. “She says she now has a different outlook and life is great. “Another client said how much happier she is since engaging with Life Without Barriers and how she is now enjoying regular social outings with a great new bunch of friends.” Emma said Life Without Barriers values were embedded into all the services they provided. “Our values make our service stand out and we strive to build relationships with everybody we come into contact with, based on

GOING GREEN: Get involved tn the Gardening Club, supported by Bunnings. The benefits of these social connections are now outweighing the fabulous veggies. respect, responsiveness, courage and often being imaginative to think of innovative ways of supporting clients. “A recent example of this was when we introduced a gardening club, supported by Bunnings. Clients attend the Bunnings sessions and, while they enjoy being able to learn new skills as well as growing their own veggies, they all say that they have built

solid relationships with the other attendees. “The benefits of these social connections are now outweighing the fabulous veggies.” Emma said the team, headed by aged dare coordinator Ashlea Miller, included a variety of culturally diverse support staff available to meet the needs of the consumers. Most staff have worked for many years within the community sector.

“Our aged care programs are steadily growing to provide more support to more people in the community” Emma said. Queensland Aged Care manager Jess Johnston concurred: “Life Without Barriers provides a wide range of support services under our Home Care Packages, ensuring clients are given every opportunity to live active, safe and stress-free lives

in their own homes”. “But it’s just as important to keep people living at home connected to community – social inclusion is something we strive for as an organisation and can help with as well,” she said. We welcome any inquiries about our services, and you can phone us any time on (07) 3440 6300 or go to our websitel wb.org.au/agedcare.

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CARE for you, designed by you. This is the motto of Life Without Barriers aged care program and, according to Operations manager Emma Doran, that’s exactly what the organisation delivers to clients in the Gold Coast region. “Our whole team, regardless of their role, works hard to live our company values in every interaction with clients of our aged care program,” she says. “We provide a wide range of support services to clients living within their own home, helping people to stay as independent as possible.” Life Without Barriers has provided Aged Care services in South East Queensland since 2014 under the Commonwealth Home Support Program. Over time, the organisation has expanded and now offers the following in the Gold Coast region: ■ Home Care Packages – Levels 1–4 ■ Veterans Home Care – Domestic Assistance and

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

FEATURE

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019

Seniors Week events guide

SENIORS Week provides the opportunity for older Queenslanders to explore programs and services, events and activities, connect with people of all ages and backgrounds, to celebrate the many contributions older people make in their communities. Take a look at our Calendar of Events across your region from August 17-25.

■ Flexible Living’s Cultural Day 10am-1.30pm Flexible Living’s respite centre in Hillcrest will host a day of sampling multicultural foods from varied countries that our consumers originated. To accompany the culinary delights there will be entertainment for all to relax and enjoy the day. Venue: Flexible Living Respite Centre, 3 Wine Dr, Hillcrest Cost: Free

SUNDAY, AUGUST 18

■ Celebrating Seniors on the Gold Coast 9.30am-3.30pm Come along to celebrate our seniors with friends and interested Gold Coasters. Venue: Maltese Australian Gold Coast Association, Cascade Gardens, 2730 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach Cost: Free

MONDAY, AUGUST 19

■ Learner New Vogue Dancing 9am-noon Southport Senior Citizens invite you to a week-long dance party. All activities are free for this week so come along and meet some new friends for fun and fitness. Refreshments provided. Parking available in Owen Park, off Queen St via Mick Vievers Way. Venue: 2 Whitby St, Southport Cost: Free Contact: For more, phone Annette on (07) 5537 1377 or go to southportsenior citizens.com

■ Advanced Beginner Line Dancing 12.30-2.30pm Southport Senior Citizens invite you to a week-long dance party. All activities are free for this week so come along and meet some new friends for fun and fitness. Refreshments provided. Parking available in Owen Park, off Queen St via Mick Vievers Way. Venue: 2 Whitby St, Southport Cost: Free Contact: Phone Annette on (07) 5537 1377or go to southportsenior citizens.com ■ Seniors Week Golf Day 11.30am-4pm All players welcome to the Seniors Week Golf Day at Carbrook Golf Club. Meet your fellow players at a hamburger lunch at 11.30am and work out your strategies for this single stableford event, teeing off at 12.15pm. Enjoy 18 leisurely holes of golf in carts. There will be trophies for best player of the day and lots of extra prizes will be presented at the end of the tournament including Nearest the Pin Approach and Longest Accurate Drive. Nibbles will be provided. Venue: Carbrook Golf Club, 653 Beenleigh Redland Bay Rd, Carbrook Cost: $55 Contact: Bookings required by Monday, August 12, email rand.story@outlook.com or phone (07) 3821 2498, 0437 237 238 Disclaimer: Dates and times are printed as given to us. No responsibility is taken for accuracy of this information. ■ Free Hearing Checks 9am-noon Free hearing checks for

CELEBRATIONS: Queensland Seniors Week 2019. those over 18 from Hearing Australia. Advice and information on hearing loss. Venue: Nerang Library, 50 Price St, Nerang Cost: Free ■ Active and Healthy Aqua at Somerset 9.30-10.15am An entry-level aqua class to introduce basic moves and fitness development activities in the water in a safe, supportive and inclusive environment. Venue: Somerset College Pool, Somerset Dr, Mudgeeraba Cost: $5 ■ Learner New Vogue Dancing 9.30am-noon Bring a friend during Seniors Week as an introduction to all of our activities. Venue: Southport Meals on Wheels Senior Citizens Association, 2 Whitby St, Southport Cost: Free ■ Seniors Week Concert 9.30am-noon Join us as we kick off Seniors Week. Sing, dance and enjoy some of the old tunes from our favourite band, The Dukes. Breakfast is included. Venue: Helensvale Library, Lindfield Rd and Sir John Overall Dr, Helens-

vale Cost: Free ■ Active and Healthy Mature and Motivated Energiser 10.30-11.30am A session aimed at mainly over-50s based on the gentle art of chi gong, mindful breathing and simple yoga. Venue: Oxenford-Coomera Community Youth Centre, 25 Leo Graham Way, Oxenford Cost: $2 Morning Melodies 11am-1pm Healing Hooves Inc Charity in Nerang hosts its annual morning tea. Free light refreshments including tea/coffee, cake/ biscuits, live music, raffles (cost involved), sausage sizzle. Bookings are essential. Venue: Country Paradise Parklands, 231 Beaudesert Nerang Rd, Nerang. Cost: Free Contact: Bookings required on 0466 254 563 ■ Advanced Beginner Line Dancing 12.30-2pm Bring a friend during Seniors Week as an introduction to all of our activities. Venue: Southport Meals on Wheels Senior Citizens Association, 2 Whitby St, Southport

Photo: vgajic

Cost: Free

TUESDAY, AUGUST 20

■ New Vogue Dancing 9-11.30am Southport Senior Citizens invite you to a weeklong dance party. All activities are free for this week so come along and meet some new friends for fun and fitness. Refreshments provided. Parking available in Owen Park, off Queen St via Mick Vievers Way. Venue: 2 Whitby St, Southport Cost: Free Contact: For more, phone Annette on (07) 5537 1377or visit southportseniorcitizens. com ■ Tai Chi/Light Exercise 1-2.30pm Southport Senior Citizens invite you to a weeklong dance party. All activities are free for this week so come along and meet some new friends for fun and fitness. Refreshments provided. Parking available in Owen Park, off Queen St via Mick Vievers Way. Venue: 2 Whitby St, Southport Cost: Free Contact: Phone Annette on (07) 5537 1377or go onlune to southportsenior citizens.com

■ Scottish Dancing 7.30-9.30pm Southport Senior Citizens invite you to a weeklong dance party. All activities are free for this week so come along and meet some new friends for fun and fitness. Refreshments provided. Parking available in Owen Park, off Queen St via Mick Vievers Way. Venue: 2 Whitby St, Southport Cost: Free ■ Logan Loves Seniors Day 9am-2.30pm Logan Loves Seniors Day is about promoting positive attitudes towards older people and highlighting the many local activities and services open to senior citizens. The day will include a free expo, low-cost concerts and the announcement of the 2019 Senior Ambassador. Entertainment and ticket information for the Carpenters from Kempsey is at www.loganentertainment centre.com.au. Venue: Logan Entertainment Centre, 170 Wembley Rd, Logan Central Cost: Free Contact: Phone (07) 3412 5083 ■ New Vogue Dancing CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

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AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019 9am-noon Bring a friend during Seniors Week as an introduction to all of our activities. Venue: Southport Meals on Wheels Senior Citizens Association, 2 Whitby St, Southport Cost: Free ■ Division 4 Seniors Expo 10am-1pm An expo providing information on what’s happening in our community with a free barbecue and entertainment. Venue: Labrador Community Hub, 57 Billington St, Labrador Cost: Free Contact: For more information, phone (07) 5581 6408 or email 04CPO@goldcoast. qld.gov.au ■ Mudgeeraba and Robina history – village greens to green heart 10-11am Learn how both Mudgeeraba and Robina have developed over time, one as a village steeped in history and the other as a vibrant new town centre. Venue: Robina Library, 196 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina Cost: Free ■ Museum Open Day 10am-2pm Join us for a delicious Devonshire tea and learn more about the history and heritage of the hinterland area. Venue: Gold Coast Hinterland Heritage Museum, 238 Mudgeeraba Rd, Mudgeeraba Cost: Free ■ Senior Citizens Day 10am-1pm A fun seniors’ day at the club with various activities and a home-cooked hot lunch. Venue: Gold Coast Hungarian Senior Citizens Club, Broadbeach Senior Citizens Centre, 23 T E Peters Dr, Broadbeach Cost: $15 ■ Craft and Hobbies Day 10am-noon Join the fun and get creative with demonstrations from local groups Venue: Helensvale Library, Lindfield Rd and

Sir John Overall Dr, Helensvale Cost: Free ■ Active Senior Squash 11am-12.30pm Active senior squash is a fun and social game using a much larger squash ball. Tea and coffee provided afterwards. Please note the end time may vary. Venue: Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium, Nerang Broadbeach Rd, Carrara Cost: $5 ■ The Felt Room 1-3pm Join artist Margret for an introduction to the beautiful art of wet felting. Please bring along two towels. Venue: Palm Beach Library, 38 Eleventh Ave, Palm Beach Cost: Free ■ Tech Savvy Seniors – Introduction to Smartphones 1-2pm Learn the basics of smartphone navigation, such as turning the phone on and off, making and receiving calls, changing the volume and using contacts. Venue: Robina Library, 196 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina Cost: Free ■ Tai Chi/Light Exercise 1-2.30pm Bring a friend during Seniors Week as an introduction to all of our activities. Venue: Southport Meals on Wheels Senior Citizens Association, 2 Whitby St, Southport Cost: Free Scottish Dancing 7.30-9.30pm Bring a friend during Seniors Week as an introduction to all of our activities. Venue: Meals on Wheels Senior Citizens Association, 2 Whitby St, Southport Cost: Free

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 21

■ Social/New Vogue Dancing 9am-noon Southport Senior Citizens invite you to a week-long dance party. All activities are free for this week so come along and meet some new friends

FUN AND FITNESS: Queensland Seniors Week 2019. for fun and fitness. Refreshments provided. Parking available in Owen Park, off Queen St via Mick Vievers Way. Venue: 2 Whitby Street Southport Cost: Free Contact: For more, phone Annette on (07) 5537 1377or visit southportsenior citizens.com ■ Tap Dancing 12.30-3pm Southport Senior Citizens invite you to a week-long dance party. All activities are free for this week so come along and meet some new friends for fun and fitness. Refreshments provided. Parking available in Owen Park, off Queen St via Mick Vievers Way. Venue: 2 Whitby St, Southport Cost: Free Contact: For more, phone Annette on (07) 5537 1377or visit southportsenior citizens.com ■ Southport Croquet Club Seniors Day 10am-2pm Come and celebrate Seniors Day and learn to play croquet. It’s fun, sociable and skilful. Enjoy a free sausage sizzle lunch. Venue: 1 Queen St, Southport (beside the Broadwater Parklands Light Rail Station) Cost: Free

Contact: For further information, phone (07) 5531 4720 or email southport@croquet qld.org ■ Celebrating our Seniors 8-10.30am Trial a variety of seniors’ classes including dance, pilates, gymnastics and yoga, then join us for morning tea. Venue: PCYC Gold Coast, 180 Monaco St, Broadbeach Waters Cost: Free ■ Naturally GC Seniors Week Coombabah Lakelands Bushwalk 9-10.30am Visit the largest conservation area managed by the city and learn more about the efforts to conserve the park and some of its plants and animals. This walk is a flat 2km loop trail. Further details about the location will be provided upon completion of registration. Venue: Naturally GC, Coombabah Lakelands, Coombabah Contact: Bookings required, phone (07) 5667 5972 Cost: Free ■ Seniors Week Expo 9am-2pm A seniors’ expo with a variety of information plus morning tea, lunch and entertainment.

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Venue: Palm Beach Share n Care, 31 Tenth Ave, Palm Beach Cost: Free ■ Ormeau Seniors Expo 9am-noon To celebrate our seniors and provide information about health, lifestyle and community services. Venue: Ormeau Progress Association, 3 Cuthbert Dr, Ormeau Cost: Free ■ Focus on Friendship Expo 9am-1pm Mini boutique seniors’ expo with interactive displays, demonstrations, equipment and the latest information. Gold Coast Blind and Visually Impaired Association, 14 Kalimna Dr, Broadbeach Waters Cost: Free ■ International Cafe 2019 9am-2pm International Cafe is MCCGC’s annual signature event celebrating Queensland Multicultural Month and Queensland Seniors Week. The day highlights cultural diversity within the region, with interactive workshops of all types, vibrant and diverse entertainment, cultural and information stalls and food tasting from many cultures that now call Gold Coast home. Venue: Multicultural Communities Council Gold

Coast Ltd, Southport Church of Christ, 1 Griffith Way, Southport Cost: Free ■ NSA Morning Tea at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary 10am-noon To celebrate Queensland Seniors Week, National Seniors Australia is hosting an event at the heritage-listed Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Join us for morning tea in the exclusive event space. During morning tea you will be visited by one of the sanctuary’s wildlife officers with a wandering wildlife component. You will be able to get up close, take photos and ask the keeper questions about the special visitor. Following morning tea you can explore Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and all it has to offer at your leisure for the rest of the day. Ticket price includes entry and the morning tea event with special visitors. Members of National Seniors Australia receive a discount. Venue: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, 28 Tomewin St, Currumbin. Contact: Bookings required by August 20, phone (07) 3233 9141 Cost: $48.02 ■ Grandparent Storytime CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

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FEATURE

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019 10-10.30am Kids, bring your grandma and grandpa to share this special grandparents’ story time. Venue: Broadbeach Library, 61 Sunshine Blvd, Mermaid Waters Cost: Free ■ Active and Healthy Day 10am-noon As you grow older, an active lifestyle becomes more important. Join our fun morning and stay socially active. Venue: Helensvale Library, Lindfield Rd and Sir John Overall Dr, Helensvale Cost: Free ■ Active and Healthy CPR and Defibrillator Workshop 10.30-11.30am A fun and interactive workshop aimed at educating seniors about how to save a life through CPR and the use of a defibrillator. First aid accident and emergency. Venue: Sports House, 337 Christine Ave, Varsity Lakes Cost: $10 ■ Discover your family history 11am-noon A step-by-step guide on how to begin your research with the Gold Coast Family History Society. Venue: Runaway Bay Library, Lae Dr, Runaway Bay Cost: Free ■ Healing Hooves Morning Melodies 11am-1pm Live music, raffles, light refreshments and a sausage sizzle. Bookings are required – no entry without a booking. Venue: Healing Hooves Inc, Country Paradise Parklands, 231 Beaudesert Nerang Rd, Nerang Cost: Free Contact: Bookings required, phone 0466 254 563 ■ Free Army Band Concert 11.30am-12.30pm Enjoy a free performance by the Australian Army Band Brisbane. Raffles for sale at the door by Robina Lions.

Venue: Robina Community Centre Auditorium, 196 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina Cost: Free ■ Active and Healthy Growing Stronger 1-2pm Restore and rehabilitate, combining strength training, mobility and core work to improve strength, balance and mobility. Please note the end time may vary. Venue: AgeilityFit, Coomera Community Space, 133 Finnegan Way, Coomera Cost: $3

THURSDAY, AUGUST 22

■ Celebrate Seniors 9.30am-12.30pm Celebrate Seniors is a fun and entertaining morning filled with trivia, bingo games and entertainment, with a yummy morning tea provided. Have fun while collecting money for a high-spirited auction. You can bid with the funny money collected throughout the morning. Wheelchair accessible and hearing loop available. Venue: Loganlea Community Centre, 28-32 Timms St, Loganlea Cost: Free Contact: Bookings required, phone 3805 8260 ■ Square Dancing 9.30am-noon Southport Senior Citizens invite you to a week-long dance party. All activities are free for this week so come along and meet some new friends for fun and fitness. Refreshments provided. Parking available in Owen Park, off Queen St via Mick Vievers Way. Venue: 2 Whitby St, Southport Cost: Free Contact: For more, phone Annette on (07) 5537 1377 or visit southportsenior citizens.com ■ Improver/Intermediate Line Dancing 12.30-2.30pm Southport Senior Citizens invite you to a week-long dance party. All activities are free for this week so come along and

TECH SAVVY SENIORS: Queensland Seniors Week 2019. meet some new friends for fun and fitness. Refreshments provided. Parking available in Owen Park, off Queen St via Mick Vievers Way. Venue: 2 Whitby St, Southport Cost: Free Contact: For more, phone Annette on (07) 5537 1377or visit southportsenior citizens.com ■ Co.As.It. Luncheon Party 10am-2pm Enjoy morning tea, lunch, live entertainment, dance and raffles included in price. Venue: Dog & Parrot Tavern, Robina Cost: $18 Contact: Phone (07) 5617 9500 to book ■ Active and Healthy over-60s social paddle 7-9am Increase your water confidence as your learn about water safety, how to read weather condition and how to help yourself and others safe if trouble arises. BYO board or call beforehand to arrange board hire. Please note the end time may vary. Venue: Kevin Gates Park, Awoonga Ave, Burleigh Cost: $5 ■ Burleigh Seniors Celebration Concert

9am-noon Concert featuring the Brisbane Army Concert Band and a free morning tea. Venue: Burleigh and Miami Senior Citizens Club, 40-42 Matilda St, Burleigh Heads Cost: Free ■ Seniors Social Table Tennis 9am-noon Friday morning social doubles with morning tea and coffee. Prizes and giveaways for all. Venue: Gold Coast Table Tennis, Lot 1 Herbertson Dr, Molendinar Cost: Free ■ Seniors Safety Session 9-11am Gold Coast seniors are invited to come along and join us for morning tea and learn strategies to help keep you safer at home and in the community. Venue: Helensvale Cultural Centre, Sir John Overall Dr and Lindfield Rd, Helensvale Cost: Free Contact: Bookings required, phone (07) 5581 6642 ■ Seniors Week 9am-2pm Join us for a morning of games, special raffles and lucky door prizes. Morning tea and a

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barbecue lunch provided. Venue: Helensvale Senior Citizens Club, 37 Discovery Dr, Helensvale Cost: Free ■ Square Dancing 9.30am-noon Bring a friend during Seniors Week as an introduction to all of our activities. Venue: Southport Meals on Wheels Senior Citizens Association, 2 Whitby St, Southport Cost: Free ■ Seniors Expo and Technology Help 10am-2pm One-stop information event for seniors in the community, including technology help and refreshments. Venue: Varsity Lakes Community Resource Centre, Jim Harris Park, Mattocks Rd, Varsity Lakes Cost: Free ■ Seniors Garden Day 10am-noon Enjoy a Seniors Garden Day with the Orchid Society. Venue: Helensvale Library, Lindfield Rd and Sir John Overall Dr, Helensvale Cost: Free ■ The Ketogenic Diet 10.30-11.30am Learn the health benefits of a ketogenic diet. Presented by Cindi

Young (integrative naturopath). Venue: Robina Library, 196 Robina Town Centre Dr Cost: Free ■ Multifaith Seniors Celebration 11am-1pm Lunch and activities to bring together seniors from diverse backgrounds, religions, cultures, philosophies and world views. Venue: The Migrant Centre Organisation Inc, Southport Community Centre, 6 Lawson St, Southport Cost: Free

FRIDAY, AUGUST 23

■ New Vogue Workshop 10am-noon Southport Senior Citizens invite you to a week-long dance party. All activities are free for this week so come along and meet some new friends for fun and fitness. Refreshments provided. Parking available in Owen Park, off Queen St via Mick Vievers Way. Venue: 2 Whitby Street Southport Cost: Free Contact: For more, phone Annette on (07) 5537 1377 or visit CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

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FROM PAGE 24

FEATURE

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019 FROM PAGE 25

Come and join us for a Masquerade Party as we celebrate Seniors Week in disguise. Venue: Ozcare Runaway Bay DRC, 344 Oxley Dr, Runaway Bay Contact: Bookings required by Friday, August 16, phone (07) 5519 0360 Cost: Free ■ Death Cafe 10.30am-noon Gather to eat cake, drink tea and discuss death to increase awareness with a view to improve people’s lives. Venue: Wesley Mission, The Hopewell Centre, 88 Allied Dr, Arundel Cost: Free ■ U3A Choir – Variety Theme 10.30-11.30am The Runaway Bay Library invites everyone to come along and enjoy the music and songs of the North Gold Coast U3A Choir. Venue: Runaway Bay Library, Lae Dr, Runaway Bay Cost: Free ■ Sally McKinnon storytelling session for seniors: Ageing gratefully 10.30am-noon This is a gentle and quietly funny shared storytelling session about growing older created especially for adults. Venue: Elanora Library, The Pines Shopping Centre, Guineas Creek Rd, Elanora Cost: Free ■ Active and Healthy Aqua Classes 12-12.45pm An entry-level aqua class to introduce basic moves and fitness development activities in the water in a safe, supportive and inclusive environment. Venue: Rackley Swimming Robina, 20 Caulfield St, Robina Cost: $5 ■ Late effects of polio 12.30pm-2pm For polio survivors and carers to learn support

southportsenior citizens.com ■ Healthy Mind and Body Expo 9am-3pm Featuring qigong, tai chi, laughter yoga, the opportunity to chat with a naturopath plus more. Venue: U3A Twin Towns, 4 Boyd St, Tugun Cost: Free ■ Wellness Talks 9-11am Join us for wellness talks with health professionals. Venue: PCYC Gold Coast, 180 Monaco St, Broadbeach Waters Cost: Free ■ Gold Coast Woodturners 9.30-11.30am Learn about the Gold Coast Woodturning Club, one of the oldest woodturning clubs in Australia. Find out about the new beginners’ course and view a demonstration. Venue: Robina Library, 196 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina Cost: Free ■ Seniors Week Movie and Morning Tea 9.30am-noon Enjoy morning tea and a free movie, My Fair Lady, screening in the auditorium to finish off our Seniors Week Celebrations. Venue: Helensvale Library, Lindfield Rd and Sir John Overall Dr, Helensvale Cost: Free ■ Musical Variety Concert 10-11.30am A musical variety concert to celebrate Seniors Week. Morning tea provided, lucky door prizes. Volunteering Services Australia. Venue: Nerang Bicentennial Centre, 833 Southport-Nerang Rd, Nerang Cost: $5 ■ Masquerade Party 10am-noon

SHARING IS CARING: Queensland Seniors Week 2019.

and management options for late effects of polio. Venue: Robina Community Centre, 196 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina Cost: Free ■ Cheese Making 1-2.30pm Learn to make cheese in an ordinary kitchen with your own, everyday kitchen utensils. Venue: Robina Library, 196 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina Cost: Free ■ Open Lab – Creative Tech Lab 1-3pm Utilise our powerful gaming computers for 3D modelling, audio or video production and 3D printing. Venue: Southport Library, Garden and Lawson streets, Southport Cost: Free

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■ Intermediate Line Dancing 9-11am Southport Senior Citizens invite you to a week-long dance party. All activities are free for this week so come along and meet some new friends for fun and fitness. Refreshments provided. Parking available in Owen Park, off Queen St via Mick Vievers Way. Venue: 2 Whitby St, Southport Cost: Free Contact: For more, phone Annette on (07) 5537 1377or visit southportsenior citizens.com ■ Beginner Line Dancing 11.30am-1.30pm Southport Senior Citizens invite you to a week-long dance party. All activities are free for this week so come along and meet some new friends for fun and fitness. Refreshments provided. Parking available in Owen Park, off Queen St via Mick Vievers Way. Venue: 2 Whitby St, Southport Cost: Free Contact: For more, phone Annette on (07) 5537 1377 or visit southportsenior citizens.com ■ Gold Coast Spinners and Weavers Group Inc. 9am-12.30pm Take an inside look at how fibre is spun and woven. Venue: 238 Mudgeeraba Rd, Mudgeeraba Cost: Free ■ Author Talk – Annette Duffy 10.30-11.30am Annette Duffy recounts her life journey leading to

Photo: Cecilie_Arcurs

her memoir, In Heaven, On Earth: a love story which traverses both realms. Venue: Robina Library, 196 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina Cost: Free ■ Let’s Celebrate Seniors Week Together 10.30-11.30am Be creative with a special senior in your life. We will be designing and creating badges and a fun craft activity. Bring your own photos to use or create a special design together. Venue: Upper Coomera Library, Coomera Hub Parklands, 90 Reserve Rd Cost: Free ■ Sensational Songs of Stage & Screen 11am-1pm Sensational Songs from Stage and Screen is a fabulous new show from Vavachi Entertainment bringing together classic musical movies, favourite musicals, new shows and old favourites into a delicious package of auditory delights. There is something for everyone to enjoy with songs from well-known music movies such as High Society, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, The Greatest Showman and musicals including Westside Story, Songs for a New World, Bonnie and Clyde, Les Miserables, Secret Garden and Jekyll and Hyde. Venue: Runaway Bay Community, Lae Dr, Gold Coast Cost: $25-$30. Contact: Bookings required, phone (07) 5577 4571 ■ GCARS Seniors Day BBQ 1-3pm

A free barbecue and display of radio equipment for those interested in radio, electronics and communication. Venue: The Gold Coast Amateur Radio Society, 85 Harper St, Moledinar Cost: Free ■ Seniors Week Orchid Event 12.30-3.30pm Spectacular orchid display, new growers’ group activity, guest speaker, expert advice, raffles and afternoon tea Venue: Gold Coast District Orchid Society, 6 Lawson St, Southport Cost: Free

SUNDAY, AUGUST 25

■ Open Day at Gold Coast Family History Society 10am-2pm August is National Family History Month and our doors will be open at our research library. Everyone is welcome to browse through our worldwide collection records. Venue: Room 3, Bicentennial Centre, Southport/Nerang Rd Contact: Go to goldcoastfhs.org.au ■ Peachey Garden Party 10.30am-12.30pm Take a guided tour through the unusual and delicious world of Peachey Community Garden and enjoy morning tea. Venue: Peachey Community Garden, McCreadie St, Ormeau Cost: Free Disclaimer: Dates and times are printed as given to us. No responsibility is taken for accuracy of this information.

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

FEATURE

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019

Top-quality products Made in Australia

STARTING from humble beginnings some 20 years ago in Brisbane, EasyCare services the whole eastern seaboard with its innovative adjustable beds and tilt and lift chairs, still manufactured locally right here in Queensland. The business recently changed hands, with the new owners excited to build on the success of the past 20 years and expand the areas serviced with a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;customer firstâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; approach. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We take great pride in manufacturing our own adjustable beds and tilt and lift chairs, but it would all be for nothing without our knowledgeable staff and their excellent customer service focus,â&#x20AC;? company CEO Truls Fauske said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We managed to retain all staff in the transition to new owners and their commitment to our

Mobility scooters.

SLEEP EASY: The EasyCare group is also one of the largest suppliers of oxygen concentrators in Australia. customers is really showing.â&#x20AC;? The EasyCare group is also one of the largest suppliers of oxygen concentrators in Australia and has remained at the forefront of the portable oxygen concentrator revolution when it gained momentum through technology advances

some 10 years ago. As the largest supplier of Philips Respironics equipment in Australia, there are few questions the customer service team canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t answer. As a one-stop shop for mobility aids, EasyCare group also has a full range of mobility scooters and power chairs from

respected premium brands Shoprider and Drive DeVilbiss. Sharp pricing on quality products and a free in-home demonstration service is the EasyCare difference in a crowded mobility industry. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The mobility retail space was overwhelmed with cheap imports a few

years back, but customers quickly learn which brands they can trust,â&#x20AC;? said Mr Fauske. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have stuck with the Shoprider and Drive brand since the beginning and we have developed a deep understanding of what makes a reliable end product. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Understanding our customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs so they can purchase the right product is so, so important and something we place great emphasis on during initial consultation with new

customers.â&#x20AC;? Recently, EasyCare became a network partner with Aidacare, enabling an even wider range of assistive technology products for end users and their care providers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This has been fantastic for our customers, where they truly have a one-stop-shop approach to cover their needs,â&#x20AC;? said Mr Fauske. Next year will see the EasyCare group expand into Sydney with a new location in the North Shore area. Mr Fauske said the demand for custom made-in-Australia products in the Sydney market was phenomenal â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have so many customers in this region and setting up a warehouse and showroom in Sydney is a logical step to service those customers better.â&#x20AC;? Customers can visit the Brisbane showroom in Virginia to get an appreciation of the quality product range.

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FEATURE

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019

What’s On THE IMPERIAL RUSSIAN BALLET

THE Imperial Russian Ballet Company returns to Australia with Swan Lake, the most loved classical ballet of them all, at HOTA in October. It is a story where the virtues of love and forgiveness in the end conquer evil and betrayal. The Imperial Russian Ballet Company comprises 40 dancers from the major ballet schools of Russia. Saturday and Sunday, October 12-13, at HOTA (Home of the Arts), Gold Coast, at 2pm and 7.30pm. Bookings phone (07) 5588 4000.

FREE SENIORS’ MORNING TEA

PACIFIC Fair holds a free seniors’ morning tea and games morning on the first Tuesday of every month 9.30-11.30am on the ground floor at Pierre’s Cafe (inside Myer). It’s a chance to enjoy a social morning out with friends, new and old, and to catch up over a free coffee, cake and games. No bookings required, though you must present your Seniors Card to receive a complimentary coffee and cake.

AUSTRALIA IN SPACE AND APOLLO – PROFESSOR ALAN DUFFY ASTRONOMER Alan Duffy will explore the ways in which Australia finds itself at the cutting-edge of space exploration, from the boundaries of our atmosphere to the furthest reaches of the universe. Find out how Australia finds itself

supporting a return to the moon, 50 years since Apollo 11. Bookings are essential. The event is being held August 9 from 6.30-7.30pm at Robina Library. Email esl@goldcoast.qld.gov.au or call (07) 5581 6788.

INFORMATION FOR MENOPAUSAL WOMEN

AN INFORMATIVE and educational workshop will be held at the Runaway Bay Youth Centre on Saturday, August 10, from 10.30am-12.30pm. The workshop is for women having menopausal symptoms who would like to understand the physiological process and natural methods of relief. This workshop not only aims to assist women in improving disabling menopausal symptoms, but also to assist them in improving their stress response, sleep patterns, alongside weight management tips. The event is presented by natural healthcare practitioners who have achieved bachelor degree qualifications and postgraduate degrees and is promoted by City of Gold Coast as part of its Active & Healthy Lifestyle Program. Giveaways will be available onsite from sponsors Cobram Estate and Morlife. Heavily discounted consultation prices will also be offered to individuals present at the event. Come along and learn new, evidencebased methods of improving your health. Cost is $13.50. Run by Harvesting Health. Contact Leone Wilson 0422 220 464, harvestinghealth77

THE Absolute Beginners cycling workshop encourages those within the community who want to cycle but have never ridden a bicycle and are unsure of how to go about getting into cycling. Attendees must be 18 years or older. They must bring their own drinking water, helmet, bicycle and sunscreen for this session. Please note that due to the limited number of spaces and BEAUTY: The Imperial Russian Ballet Company is currently touring its performance the popularity of the of Swan Lake. program, those interested will need to @gmail.com. increasing attention to Brisbane in Robina register online. Please detail and appreciation of during Seniors Week. cancel if not able to ROSE CUP beauty. There will be raffles for attend the session. CHARITY GOLF Suitable for ages 15 sale at the door to Maximum of three HOSTED at the Arundel and older, to be held from support Robina Lions participants per session. Hills Country Club, the 9-11am on August 17 at Club and its Big Red Facilitator is Olympic gold Rose Cup Charity Golf Robina and the cost is Kidney Bus community medallist Sara Carrigan. Day is a four-player free. Phone project. The event will be The next workshop is on ambrose (two groups of 1300 465 326, email held at the Robina August 24 from two players). Registration noreply@goldcoast Community Centre 9.30-11am at Miami. The includes hire for two .qld.gov.au or go to Auditorium from location details will be carts and on-course eventbrite.com.au/e/ 11.30am-12.30pm, given after registration. takeaway lunch followed naturallygc-natureAugust 21. No bookings It’s free. Phone by a sit-down dinner for journaling-ticketsrequired. (07) 5582 8677, email four people. Sponsored 62617653086. activetravel@gold coast. by LJ Hooker and COOMBABAH qld.gov.au or visit realestate.com.au, this GUIDED WALK – LAKELANDS eventbrite.com.au/e/ is an opportunity to enjoy A SAUNTER FOR BUSHWALK absolute-beginners a day on the green and THE SENSES JOIN the city’s Natural -cycle. raise funds and THIS walk in the Rotary Areas team for Seniors awareness for Cystic Sensory Garden is aimed Week. Visit the largest MUCH ADO Fibrosis Queensland, at stimulating all five conservation area ABOUT NOTHING supporting senses. Learn about the managed by the city and CLAUDIO and Hero are Queenslanders living history of the site while learn more about the deeply in love. Beatrice with this incurable enjoying the Gold Coast efforts to conserve the and Benedick would disease. winter sunshine in the park and some of the rather swap sassy insults The event will be held Botanic Gardens. Meet plants and animals found than sweet nothings. August 15, 9.45am-8pm. the guide at the Friends there, including Much Ado About Nothing Contact Cathy Barker Centre. The event will be kangaroos, wallabies, is a saucy and from Cystic Fibrosis held from 10-11am on koalas and a range of razor-sharp battle of wits Queensland. Phone August 18 at the Gold birds. Medium fitness between the bickering (07) 3359 8000 or email Coast Regional Botanic required, flat level trail. Beatrice and Benedick, bdm@cfqld.org.au. Gardens, 230 Ashmore This walk is who wield words as Rd, Benowa, and is free. approximately a 2km weapons, their banter NATURE Contact Shelly, Friends loop walk. Suitable for betraying their love and JOURNALING of the Gold Coast Region- seniors aged 60 and loathing of each other. NATURE journaling is al Botanic Gardens, on older. August 21 from Presented by HOTA, the practice of drawing or 0449 561 674 or info@ 9-10.30am at Home of the Arts and writing in response to friendsgcrbg.org.au. Coombabah. Phone Bell Shakespeare, nature. It’s fun and 1300 465 320 or email September 4 and 5 from relaxing, helps people ARMY BAND noreply@goldcoast 7.30-10pm. Phone connect with nature, and CONCERT – .qld.gov.au. (07) 5588 4000, email the result is a unique SENIORS WEEK info@hota.com.au or visit nature journal. The ENJOY a free ABSOLUTE hota.com.au/theatre practice is aimed at performance by the BEGINNERS /much-ado-aboutcalming the mind and Australian Army Band (MIAMI) nothing.

The great Royal Tattoo SPECTACULAR: The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo will be performing at the ANZ Stadium, Sydney for four shows only in October.

THE brooding, magnificent castle is an unbeatable backdrop to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. A 1:1 scale Edinburgh Castle has been built to stage the 2019 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo spectacular. The replica castle is a massive 29m high and 80m across, complete with the figures of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce standing guard over proceedings. History of theRoyal Edinburgh Military tattoo

The tattoo has a proud history beginning in 1950 as part of the Edinburgh International Festival; an event that was created, first and foremost, to support the services and arts charities. Today it plays a central role in the Edinburgh summer festivals and each year runs for 25 shows during August. About 220,000 people attend the show live each year with a further 100-300 million viewing it on television globally.

The tattoo has only ever left Edinburgh Castle four times. The show is 90 minutes of breath-taking performances from the pipes and drums of the Scottish regiments and military and civilian performers from elsewhere in the UK and around the world. The cast involves up to 1400 performers. With its unique blend of music, ceremony, entertainment and theatre the tattoo is a vivid and

intensely emotional display. Four shows only – from Thursday, October 17, to Saturday, October 19 – held at ANZ Stadium, Sydney.

Booking inquiries: phone 13 28 49, visit any Ticketek outlet or go to edinburghtattoo sydney.com.au/tickets. Bookings: for groups of 20 or more, phone 1300 364 001.

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

FEATURE

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019

Where art meets life Australian stage, screen and television actor Colin Friels (Malcolm, Water Rats, Mystery Road) will star as Scaramouche Jones, an ancient clown, in his first one-man play. Every Sunday from 6-11.30am the Bundall Farmers’ Markets are a hive of activity, with different stalls, produce, live music and more to enjoy. Visitors can take their time and walk around the lake, visit the children’s playground, or on the first Sunday of the month take part in HOTA’s free Dancing on the Green social dance event, or start your day with some feel-good stretching at the free yoga sessions. HOTA’s cinema offers movies for everyone. With a unique blend of mainstream, art house

and foreign films, it’s the perfect venue for lovers of film. If movies aren’t your thing, there are monthly life drawing classes, the HOTA Choir, writing and other arts and culture workshops, jazz and blues events, and plenty more. With so much happening, HOTA has opened its doors to offer HOTA Membership for the first time. For only $38, annual HOTA members can receive great savings on selected tickets and drinks. Plus, with moneycan’t-buy experiences like invites to special events, exclusive previews and member-only deals, there really is no place like Home (of the Arts). To become a member, go to hota.com.au or phone (07) 5588 4000.

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ABOVE: HOTA is the place for live performances, lakeside strolls, star gazing, cinema-watching, art and new ideas. RIGHT, MAGICAL: Surrounded by parklands and a lake with Surfers Paradise as the backdrop, day and night.

AT HOTA, Home of the Arts, you can discover art indoors and out. Surrounded by parklands and a lake with Surfers Paradise as the backdrop, Home of the Arts is the place for live performances, lakeside strolls, stargazing, cinema-watching, art and new ideas. There’s a unique outdoor stage for live events and a cafe for relaxing and connecting. HOTA brings the best of art, music, theatre, dance, comedy, opera, cabaret and kids’ shows to the Gold Coast through a year-round program of events and activities. Coming up, renowned companies Bell Shakespeare, Opera Queensland and the Queensland Symphony Orchestra will present work for those who love traditional, classical arts.

FEATURE

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019

Dive out of the pool for a fresh start Long-time manager completes last lap

TIME FOR NEW SORT OF FUN: Glenn clowns around with long-time pool employee Jenny Bryant.

AN ERA is about to end at the Tweed River Aquatic Centre with the retirement of long-time manager Glenn Knott this month. There aren’t that many people that remember the Murwillumbah pool without a Knott in charge with Glenn taking over from his dad. His dad started at the pool in 1974 and he returned from Mt Isa in 1979 to join the family. “I started working here when I was 22, about to turn 23 – dad was already here,” Glenn explained. “So, I’ve been here, Knotts have been here for nearly 50 years. We’ve seen some changes. “Dad was manager too – well it started off with him in the of pool superintendent, then pool manager, then supervisors and all sorts of different names. But there’s been a Knott in charge of the pool for nearly 50 years, it’s an end of an era.” So, does he have another family member wanting to take over? “No, nooooo,” he laughed. “Nobody wants to do it, it’s changed in 50

years. “I was working in Mt Isa in the smelters up there, I was 22 years old, my father asked me to give him a hand for six months. And now 40 years later I’m retiring, it was a long six months.

‘‘

There’s been a Knott in charge of the pool for nearly 50 years “The pools have changed, when we first arrived it was a very open area and not much barriers between the inside and outside, fences were installed and the water slides. “The big one was ten years ago when we did the redevelopment, but it’s come on and it’s looking really good now.” So why stay in one place for so long? “It’s varied,” Glenn

explained. “I deal with lots of different people which makes it quite interesting. I deal with nearly every branch in council, I deal with politicians, councillors, all sorts or members of the community and it’s not a bad office. Every day’s different, it can be challenging with some of the clients we have but it’s just been a good life. “We’ve had lots of crazy things – some of the external jobs we did when we use to close for winter. Jeff Collier and I use to be put to work in other council divisions. “We’ve done dog registration, change for the surveyors, building. But the last 20 years has been full time at the pool. We run all three pools (Kingscliff, South Tweed and Murwillumbah) all under the same banner.” Glenn’s wife Anni Brownjohn runs the highly successful Ozganics, organic food company, and while they will be taking a trip to the UK after his retirement, he said Anni would find him plenty to do.

Shakespeare sends Whitney back to the future Tania Phillips AS A schoolboy in the ’70s David Whitney was in the audience to see the Nimrod performance of Much Ado About Nothing starring John Bell and his wife Anna Volska as Beatrice and Benedick. It was a moment that had quite the effect on the would-be actor. Fast forward 40 years and David Whitney is not only seeing a new generation of Beatrice and Benedick (played by Zidzi Okenyo and Duncan Ragg) but he’s in the Bell Shakespeare Production playing Beatrice’s uncle and father of hero – Leonarto. “Seeing the Nimrod version wasn’t the main

reason I became an actor but it was fairly crucial at the time, I’d been in a few plays at school,” David said. Bitten by the bug he applied for NIDA before becoming part of the graduating class of 1982, and while he’s done other theatre and musical theatre (My Fair Lady for Opera Australia), television (A Place to Call Home) he admits to having a particular love for the Bard. And he’s no stranger to Bell Shakespeare, completing his first show for them 20 years ago – he’s done 10 since then including Hamlet, Henry IV, As You Like It, The Tempest and his very first production – Romeo and Juliet.

He admits he loves the language – loves to see a new generation working on the plays – the moment they “get it”. It’s also five months work and a good solid three months on the road – starting in Orange a few weeks ago before heading to Melbourne for a two-week season before heading north to play everywhere from Darwin down to the Gold Coast’s HOTA (September 4-5), Lismore Town Hall (September 24-25) and the Glasshouse at Port Macquarie (September 30-October 1). “We have five to six weeks in Sydney at the end but we are on the road for three and a half months,” he said. “But it’s not all

travelling, we have time to get back home and there are chances for family to visit – my wife is coming to Port Macquarie and to the Gold Coast.” And it’s a chance for David to revisit a play he obviously enjoys – he’s already played villain Don John – a role he admits is a favourite, this time around though he’s the old man of the cast. And while David remembers John Bell’s Benedick fondly, for most of us our first foray into the story of Claudio and Hero, Beatrice and Benedick came from the ’93 Kenneth Brannagh film and David believes that production certainly has given audiences a familiarity and fondness for the play.

ON TOUR: Vivienne Awosoga, David Whitney and Will McDonald in Much Ado About Nothing. Photo: Clare Hawley

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

FEATURE

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019

Hearing Aid alternatives to take off HEARING specialists have released new TV Voice clarifying earphones, which have outperformed the world’s best hearing aids in delivering clearer TV speech and dialogue. Hearing specialist Don Hudson said the new TV Voice Pro Air earphones were developed based upon over 1000 hearing test results of those with hearing loss, and proven TV listening difficulty. “Hearing TV dialogue clearly is a significant problem for those with hearing loss,” Don said. “The clarity of the TV audio itself is highly variable, as many channels differ dramatically in intelligibility, and the

volume is often changing between programs and advertisements too. “Hearing aids find it hard to correct this problem, as the originating problem is how the audio has been mixed for each TV program.” The new wireless TV Voice Pro Air earphones overcomes this problem by altering the original TV audio. The TV audio is recalibrated to a speech enhanced frequency response, with particular adjustments to high frequency consonants, such as ‘s’, ‘f’, ‘th’, ‘p’, to clarify TV dialogue. Audiologist Suzanne Porter said hearing aid clientele are always

searching for better clarity, with up to 60 per cent of those with hearing aids reporting ongoing difficulties hearing speech and dialogue. “Although the overall benefits of hearing aids are very good, often clientele still report difficulties in certain situations, such as difficulty hearing the TV dialogue, or trouble hearing on their mobile phone,” Suzanne said. “For TV, hearing aid wearers said they were often missing the punch-line on their favourite TV programs, and fed up not hearing TV dialogue clearly, spoiling their overall enjoyment.” The new TV Voice Pro

EASY LISTENING: The new wireless TV Voice Pro Air earphones overcomes hearing problems by altering the original TV audio. Air System utilises the most beneficial audio clarity setting based on feedback from customers. The product was also tested with hearing aid clientele at a busy audiology practice, with overwhelming feedback of improved clarity for TV listening over their current hearing aids. The TV Voice Pro Air system has a specialised volume range up to 110dB – adequate volume for

those with any level of hearing loss, from mild to severe. It works with any TV, new or old, and the earphones operate wirelessly up to 10 metres from the television. The audio and volume of the TV for others in the room is not affected. The TV Voice Pro Air system connects in under two minutes to any TV in Australia. The earphones are

rechargeable and no batteries are required. The purchase price is $349. TV Voice Pro Air comes with a 30-day money back guarantee. To order, phone 1300 300 446 or order online, go to TvVoicePro.com.au. TV Voice Pro is currently offering free express courier delivery for a limited time.

Home Care Package Provider Carers Link Home Care Package Program provides security and support for people wanting to stay at home with access to a range of ongoing personal, support and clinical services. As a recipient, you’re not limited to a basic list of services, and as an approved provider, we can work with you to select services that best meet your individual care needs and goals. At Carers Link, we understand how important your Package funding is to your overall quality of life. Which is why we offer:

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A FREE CONSULTATION NO HIDDEN FEES NO WAIT LIST 24/7 SUPPORT

Throughout the entire process we offer personalised contact and case management from our dedicated Aged Care Advisor, who not only works with you, but also with your family and network, to support the whole family journey in aged care. You will also have access to our Memory Support Program unique to Carers Link to improve memory function.

p. (07) 3901 1165 e. info@carerslink.com.au carerslink.com.au

REVIEWS

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019

Wars fought for Silk Road CREATING bedtime stories for his two young sons about a mythical giant called Chop Suey, was the spark for Frank Spencer’s new historical novel, The Silk Road Wars, set in China’s Ming Dynasty. While the book’s main character, Chi, is based on this invented giant, the wars fought by China to defend its borders are factual. One of the first attacks covered in the book is Japan’s invasion in 1834. Following this, many other regimes and leaders attempted to defeat the Chinese without success including King Porus of India, the Gauls, Romania, the Cossacks, the Thugees, the Moors, the Carthaginians and many others. “The Silk Roads created a vast trading empire that made China the wealthiest of nations,”

said Frank Spencer of his second novel. “This also made China the prize other nations strived to plunder.” Throughout the Ming Dynasty the Great Wall was extended and strengthened and a formidable army was created to fight off the many and regular invaders. Chi’s father, Peng, was a master in designing and manufacturing devastating weapons of war and set in place China’s arms race, transforming the Ming army. Conscription was invented to replace the thousands of soldiers who lost their lives fighting off invaders, and a special elite unit was also created. Chi became China’s greatest warrior, a general who was a master in the art of war.

HISTORICAL ADVENTURES: Author Frank Spencer. ships.” Frank Spencer’s love of Marco Polo’s travels was further reason for creating this historical novel, which interweaves many other characters into the narrative including Chi’s friendships and his love life, and relationships with Emperor Zu Youjian and

General Qi Juguang who was a master tactician and authority on Sun Tzu’s The Art of War. A Secret Life is the title of Frank Spencer’s first book, an espionage thriller that follows the intriguing life of Richard Sinclair and his extraordinary life skills,

Photo: Melissa Hobbs

including martial arts, who uses the power of friendship and love to take on the biggest battles of all. The Silk Road Wars (and A Secret Life) has an RRP of $24.95 and at ll good book stores and online at Booktopia.

Take a technikolour trip with Dr Karl

The Carer BESTELLING author Deborah Moggach does it again in The Carer, a delightfully, witty and poignant novel of age, sibling rivalry and growing old. Phoebe and Robert have an ageing and seemingly bored, widowed father James whose ageing issues force them to seek full-time help for him. The easiest answer is to employ a live-in carer Mandy. She’s not the best choice Phoebe thinks, but when she and her brother would prefer to not take on the role, Mandy looks like the best solution. This leaves the middle-aged siblings to pursue their own lives, complicated as they may be. Their stories are relatable which may leave some few readers feeling like they are reading about themselves. Dealing with their father isn’t all they really need to have to worry about as their lives change and so do their intimate ambitions of ageing happily. So, while the seemingly innocuous Mandy looks after

In defending its Silk Road, China fought back with great vigour and although always outnumbered, its superior strategies and weaponry more than levelled the odds. China invented gunpowder and had cannon whereas most of her adversaries did not. Its greater cunning and ingenuity was also used when it bought weapons used in the American Civil War. “The Silk Road Wars documents the many great land and sea battles and identifies Britain emerging as the prime antagonist,” Frank said. “In building a mighty navy and an empire, Britain continued to see China as a bitter enemy and remained in conflict with the nation well into the age of steam and dreadnought battle-

James who has discovers a new found energy for shopping trips, journeys to garden centres and life outside his front window, Phoebe and Robert juggle jealousy with a sense that something is amiss. The father who was too busy to attend his children’s sports day is now happily chortling over cuckoo clocks and television soaps. Just when it seems life can’t get more complicated, the surprising truth of their father’s former life and their mother’s written recollections changes everything. Moggach previous novels include The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel and Tulip Fever. Published by Hachette, RRP$29.99.

DR KARL Kruszelnicki AM is a living legend when it comes to sharing his informative, amusing stories and insights to science. In his 45th book, Dr Karl’s Random Road Trip Through Science, Dr Karl continues his admirable if ambitious 30 plus year mission to track down all the awesome stories in and of the universe. He goes full kolour, with brilliant and funny illustrations to match his dress sense. Why do wombats poo cubes? Do fish drink water? What nearly destroyed

humanity on Halloween 2015? How do you use an incinerating toilet? Find out whether cannibalism is nutritious, how birds fly when they’re asleep and the Big Question – why does spaghetti always break into three parts? So whether you’re 10 or 60, strap in and get ready for a random ride through the universe. It’s perfect for any age and for grandparents to share with their grandkids. Published by HarperCollins, RRP$35.

Secrets will be revealed in Venice A YEAR after her husband Leo’s death, widow Daisy invites her three adult children to join her for a holiday in beautiful Venice. It will be wonderful, her chicks under one roof again in their father’s birthplace. But is it possible to recapture the past? Marc’s marriage is in

jeopardy, but for his mother’s sake, he convinces his wife to keep up appearances. Anna’s trying to hide the truth about the dismal state of her London acting career; and Ellie, enjoying a gap year and uncertain about her future choices, wants to avoid family pressure to conform.

Despite the magic of Venice, family ties are tested to the limit, especially when a shocking secret from Leo’s past is revealed. Now everything they value about love, family, commitment and trust must be re-examined. Published by Penguin, RRP $32.99.

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

FEATURE

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019

Rightsize to an easy life WHILE downsizing isn’t for everyone, baby boomers are certainly taking advantage of the current market. A survey by the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute has revealed that 43 per cent of Aussies aged 50–59 have either moved location or downsized in the years leading up to their retirement – a huge shift from the 3 per cent reported in early 2000. Many homeowners agree that living in a larger home leads to greater stress and upkeep. From cleaning, maintenance, furnishing, outdoor home upkeep and the cost to run all of these factors can lead to a home that is stressful. Downsizing your home can be the first step to a minimal and stream-lined life. You will be surprised how reducing your daily

MORE FREEDOM: When you downsize, you're able to lock up and leave without a worry when you go on holidays. Photo: Jamie Auld

Living at The Gardens on Lindfield helps to reduce your daily chores and maintenance to free up your time for leisure activities like lawn bowls. Photo: Contributed

chores and maintenance will free up your time for leisure activities, spending time with your family, getting more rest, and maybe loving your home more than loathing it. Once the kids move out, the family home just becomes too big for many people.

rewarding aspect of living in the village has absolutely nothing to do with money. “We all get on so well here. You have to allow half an hour to get to the rubbish bin because you have so many conversations along the way. “And, if you’re unwell, there’s always someone

If there is only one or two of you, why do you need four bedrooms? Downsizing offers freedom – there’s less maintenance required in a small apartment and you’re able to lock up and leave without a worry when you go on holidays. For Lendlease resident Lyn Hosking, the most

knocking on your door with soup or something. “It’s a real feeling of community. “Moving here was the best thing I’ve ever done.” Like any big change in life, moving into a retirement village takes some consideration. Lendlease is committed to ensuring you have all

the information you need to make your decision as straightforward as possible. Discover Lendlease Retirement Living in your local area. For more, go to retirementbylend lease.com.au or phone 1800 550 550.

Pay no exit fee at The Gardens on Lindﬁeld A variety of 2 bedroom homes selling from $340,000 Book your private viewing today! Discover the different ways to buy at The Gardens on Lindﬁeld* Prepaid Plan

Refundable Contribution

• •

•

Pay no EXIT fee Any capital gain from your home is yours Feel secure you can change your mind within six months of moving in

•

Pay no EXIT fee Your purchase price is guaranteed back when you decide to leave the village Feel secure you can change your mind within six months of moving in

Call for a private viewing on 1800 550 550 or visit retirementbylendlease.com.au 101 Lindfield Road, Helensvale * Exit Fee refers to the Deferred Management Fee (DMF). Other fees may still apply – see residence contract for full details. If you exercise the 6 month change of mind guarantee, you will only pay fair market rent and service fees. Full terms and conditions of these offers are available from our dedicated sales team. Pricing and availability correct at time of printing but subject to change without notice. Some images may depict items not provided by Lendlease within the units such as furniture and other decorative items. July 2019. Published by Lendlease RL Realty (QLD) Pty Ltd. ABN 25 138 535 814.

FEATURE

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019

Care services to suit you Vinnies’ services open to all

MAKING the first steps into the world of aged care is not always an easy journey, particularly when seniors and their families are faced with so many choices of providers and care types. With facilities and services in Brisbane, Toowoomba, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Gympie, St Vincent’s Care Services is a leading provider of retirement living, in-home community living and residential aged care services. Whether you’re looking to downsize, need some help around the home, or require around the clock care, St Vincent’s Care Services provides a holistic and tailored approach to retirement and aged care services to suit the needs of you or your loved one. Many seniors who are

QUALITY SERVOCES: St Vincent's Care Services provides a range of support and care options. now ‘empty nesters’ often find the maintenance and upkeep of the family home becoming a challenge. Sometimes, just making adjustments to your lifestyle such as downsizing to a smaller home, and having someone else take care

of maintenance can have a huge positive impact on your health and wellbeing. St Vincent’s Care Services Independent Living communities offer contemporary and private units with the convenience and comfort

of a managed village lifestyle. St Vincent’s Care Services Community Living is the perfect solution for seniors who are able to live in their own home or in an Independent Living community, but who would

benefit from some assistance. Whether it’s help with the cleaning or weekly grocery shop, transport to and from appointments or social activities, or nursing care to help manage health conditions, your

Community Living Co-ordinator will work with you to develop a plan to suit your needs and lifestyle. When additional support is required, St Vincent’s Care Services Residential Living provides around-the-clock holistic aged care for a range of needs. Residents’ expert clinical care and comfortable welcoming accommodation is complemented by professional hotel services, extensive leisure and lifestyle activities and amenities, and compassionate pastoral care support. St Vincent’s Care Services staff focus on enhancing and celebrating each resident’s lifestyle and enriching their quality of life, and delivering services and care that is tailored to each resident’s needs and preferences.

For more information, go to svcs.org.au or phone 1800 778 767.

The very best in support services and care, where we make you the priority. At St Vincent’s Care Services, we provide the best balance of independence and support, with tailored options to suit your needs. We understand the importance of lifestyle and community, which is why our aged care services encompass personal and clinical care, diverse leisure programs and support for emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Our services are tailored to meet your individual needs and are delivered with compassion, justice, integrity and excellence. We specialise in: • Residential Living at Arundel, Bardon, Boondall, Carseldine, Gympie, Kangaroo Point, Maroochydore, Mitchelton, Southport and Toowoomba. • Independent Living at Bardon, Boondall, Carseldine, Enoggera, Mitchelton and Southport. • Community Living within various communities in south-east Queensland. Please contact St Vincent’s Care Services today to arrange a tour or have a confidential discussion about your needs:

J2920 0719

Phone: 1800 778 767 Email: svcs.info@svha.org.au or visit our website: www.svcs.org.au

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

FEATURE

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019

Keeping your feet strong BY 80, the average person will have walked around 100,000 miles. That’s a fair bit of wear and tear on the feet carrying you. Foot problems are a big concern for elderly patients and injuries or complications with feet and ankles not only diminish quality of life and reduce general wellness but can contribute to serious consequences if left unattended. Ageing affects the capacity of the body to provide circulation to the feet and slows the immune response, making the elderly more prone to infection and increasing the time it takes for cuts, blisters and ulcers to heal. Unstable walking, changed gait, long periods of sitting and worn or ill-fitting shoes can place extra pressure on easily broken skin, with an

added risk of injury from falls. One in three people over the age of 65 will be injured from a fall. Your feet play an integral role in stability and balance. Nail care is another major concern for the elderly and can have a big impact on foot health. The simple task of cutting the toenails can become tricky due to poor eyesight, inability to reach the feet and loss of hand strength, which can prevent adequate care and lead to unintentional injury. It is important to have nails carefully trimmed with the correct instruments or seek the assistance of a skilled person, such as a podiatrist. Problems with bones and joints, the most prominent being arthritis, are common for patients in this age group.

Arthritis comes in about 100 different forms, with the most common forms affecting the elderly being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Swollen joints or bony bunions can be incredibly painful, and can seriously affect your ability to walk, along with adding to the likelihood of falls. Your feet play an integral role in stability and balance. Treatments are available for these conditions, both to ease pain and to provide stability. As feet age, they naturally develop more problems but painful, uncomfortable feet are not just something to put up with. There are simple things that older people can do to combat these issues: 1: Regularly have feet measured for shoe size. Shoes should hold the foot firmly in place, giving

NAIL CARE: The simple task of cutting the toenails can become tricky due to poor eyesight, which can prevent adequate care. Photo: mheim3011 enough support – worn and floppy favourites have to go. A firm sole, strong heel counter and a soft upper is best for daily activities. 2: Go for walks – walking is good general exercise for most people’s feet. 3: Ensure pantyhose and stockings are the correct size and preferably free of seams. 4: Avoid going barefoot. 5: Never cut corns or callouses yourself and don’t use over-the-counter corn products as they may do more harm than good. Only apply creams, medications or chemical treatments that have been recommended to

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you by a podiatrist or medical specialist. 6: Don’t wear tight garters as these can affect your circulation. 7: Bathe feet daily in lukewarm water, using a mild moisturising soap or moisturise separately. For older people with diabetes, avoid over-soaking the skin and instead shower daily as normal and apply cream. 8: File your toenails or trim with clippers so they are slightly curved just short of the end of the toe. 9. Inspect your feet every day; you may need to use a mirror to see the bottom of your foot.

A podiatrist can use simple, effective techniques and devices to effectively manage daily demands. With a personalised assessment and treatment plan we can help you better manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Seniors Week Special 25 per cent off all New Patient Podiatry Consultations in August. Normally $75 only $60. Further rebates may apply if you have podiatry extras cover on private health. ProMed Podiatry will help keep your feet healthy and standing strong.

FEATURE

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019

THIS is your invitation to the My Centre Nerang Seniors and Over 50s Expo. The expo will be located opposite TerryWhite Chemmart from Monday, August 19, until Friday, August 23, from 9.30am– 12.30pm each day. We will host a number of community groups, government organisations, local businesses and centre retailers during the course of the week showcasing what they have to offer over 50s to seniors. Plus 20 lucky visitors each day will receive an expo show bag. Centre manager Merrin Robson said they wanted to showcase what services were available in our centre and within our

EXPO FUN: Seniors are encouraged to attend. Photo: Contributed community and have people on hand to answer questions important to our customers. “Knowing where to start is the most important key and we hope that this expo will give them that start,” she said. ■ Monday: Recreation and leisure ■ Tuesday: Getting out

and about ■ Wednesday: Health and wellbeing ■ Thursday: Finance and insurance ■ Friday: Community services. My Centre Nerang, 57 Station St, Nerang. Go to mycentrenerang.com.au or phone 07 5578 3199.

PROFESSIONAL AND CARING SUPPORT: The Bruce legal team. Photo: Contributed

Seek legal advice ■ Wills MANY people wonder “Can I write my own will to save money?” And, while you could, the potential for errors, omissions and problems after your passing (when it’s too late to do anything about it) is not worth the headache you may inadvertently bestow on your grieving family. Bruce Legal cannot emphasise enough the importance of having a legally binding and effective will. Making a will is one of the most important steps that you can take. Even if you have little left to leave, you should consider a will as a vital part

of your estate planning. ■ Probate If you are appointed to execute a will or deal with the estate of a deceased person, it is crucial you understand your responsibilities properly. Bruce Legal can advise you of your legal obligations and can assist you with probate applications, gathering and distributing assets and liaising with beneficiaries. ■ Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) Everyone over the age of 18 should have an EPA. It is important to appoint another person as your attorney in the event you are unable to

make decisions on your own behalf. You can give your attorney the power to deal with all or any part of your financial, personal and health matters. An EPA can come into effect either immediately or only when you do not have capacity to make your own decisions. Bruce Legal wants to allow our ageing population to grow into their retirement and old age in a dignified, independent and protected manner. The team of wills and probate lawyers at Bruce Legal are well equipped to help with all aspects of elder law and estate planning.

Will Special PURCHASE A STANDARD WILL FOR:

$198.00 including GST AND RECEIVE A FREE ENDURING POWER OF ATTORNEY 07 5503 0233 Suite 1, 66 Marine Parade Southport QLD 4215 www.brucelegal.com.au

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My seniors and Over 50s expo Nerang

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

FEATURE

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019

Caring support for your family, from us AT ANY stage in life we can all be affected by an injury or condition that results in loss of mobility or function. Being adaptive helps you in today’s ever-changing world. We offer a range of modern adaptive equipment and devices to assist you in getting on with completing the activities of daily living. Our names are John and Tess and our

inspiration to open Adaptive Equipment is our own journey of when life does not go to plan. Our twin boys were born at 27 weeks, resulting in one child having a diagnosis of cerebral palsy. We understand that living with or supporting a family member or loved one with an injury or condition is busy, stressful and sometimes overwhelming.

UNDERSTANDING: Living with a family member or loved one with an injury or condition can be busy and stressful so Adaptive Equipment can help by offering solutions and support.

Therapy and daily living leaves little time and energy to spare. When equipment or devices are suggested, you often have limited knowledge of where to source or which assistive device to choose. That is why we founded Adaptive Equipment to help with these choices and decisions while you maintain choice and control. It is also important to

Opportunity to change lives GROUPS of adults and teenagers have been building houses for the poorest families in the Mekong Delta for a decade and now you have the chance to do the same. The monsoon rains that paint Vietnam with a deep green also wreak havoc on poorly constructed houses. Novice builders work with partners, the Government of Vietnam, the Red Cross, Scivi Travel and Global8 Learning to re-house the

poorest families in new homes, built simply under professional supervision by hand. Participants work on the home site with a local builder and a labourer doing rudimentary house construction, using basic tools and materials. It is physical work that requires basic fitness. This immersion program includes building work in the morning, then tourism and interacting with

Vietnamese culture. Visiting families living in houses built in previous years reveals the transforming impact of your effort. Your contribution builds the house and pays for materials and wages of the local workers. It is a challenging experience requiring cultural sensitivity, but life-changing for you! For more information, email global8learning@ yahoo.com.au.

us to provide modern options and fun colours so your Adaptive Equipment can suit your personality not just your needs. We stock and have access to all the major brands: Pride, Merits, CTM, Freedom Healthcare and Aidapt. Whether you require mobility equipment to maintain the ability to move around freely and easily in society, at home

or in employment, or daily living aids to assist you around the house to maintain personal care, comfort and dignity, we can help. We are here to provide our community with empathy and solutions for all to access the equipment they need. Support your local independent proudly australian owned. We are open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm and

Saturdays 9am-noon. We offer free delivery and home visits by appointment. — John and Tess We are Centrally located iat Shop 5, 4 Panitz St, Bundall (Cnr Campbell St), Riviera Shopping Centre beside Roy’s by Gemelli and the Pastry Emporium. With 30 free onsite carparking - access is not a problem. For more, phone 07 5661 4432.

VIETNAM HOUSE BUILDING PROJECT 2019 13 Days Join a service project team in the Mekong Delta and build a house for poor people. Your tour starts 6 pm, Saturday 30 November and finishes Friday 13 December.

Excludes air travel Your 13-Day Tour includes: 13 nights 4-star, twin share accommodation (single option available) All breakfasts and lunches and 9 dinners You will be on the building site in the mornings and doing other activities in the afternoons Cost $2599 pp twin share. $399 single supplement. Includes contribution to cost of house building and wages of locals.

HOUSE BUILDING: Participants work on the home site with a local builder and a labourer doing rudimentary house construction, using basic tools and materials.

This service project tour is conducted in conjunction with the local Red Cross, Scivi Travel, Global8 Learning and the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. For further information, a detailed itinerary or fitness requirements call or text Ian (0408723123) or Ros (0417271302) or email global8learning@yahoo.com.au

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ADD ONS: Optional after tours are available including Hanoi and Halong Bay OR Long Tan and Nui Dat

FEATURE

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019

Showman reaches out to lonely seniors

DAVE Jeffrey is putting his people skills to good use each week by making phone calls to lonely seniors who benefit from his uplifting voice. The former Captain Cook Cruises commentator, who was forced to retire from work due to throat cancer when he was in his mid-60s, has found a new life by volunteering with the Red Cross as part of its Telecross team. Each year the seven-day free service makes a daily call to isolated and lonely elderly Australians. In 2018, some 1.1 million calls were made by the Red Cross volunteers. A friendly call from Dave, now 71, for a brief morning chat on how they are and whether they are safe can make all the

difference to the lives of seniors, who often tell Dave the Telecross calls are the only ones they get. It’s not only these clients who have benefited from Dave’s over the past five years. “I am lucky that I am fully recovered, but my former job required me to do a lot of talking and I had to give up the job early,” he said. “It was a wonderful job and I was a bit depressed then someone suggested I do a bit of volunteering. It’s turned out to be a godsend for me.” While volunteering as a welfare officer at his local RSL club in Sydney, Dave heard several of his clients mention how beneficial the Telecross calls were. “That’s what got me into it as it seemed like a

good idea,” he said. The Red Cross provided him with some training on how to speak to clients and what to do and not do when talking with them. “You do acquire skills in cheering people up who are feeling down and lonely, and may be in a bit of pain,” he said. Dave works from notes about each client which helps him to know about their first name, situation, interests, pets and family. “You can always talk about that,” he said. Once a fortnight on a Sunday, Dave travels across Sydney to join the Blacktown Telecross team, who range in age from high school students to seniors. For three hours from 7-10am, he turns his warming voice into a welcome call to anywhere

SENIORS WEEK EXPO FULL OF INFORMATION AND ENJOYMENT – ALL FOR FREE

PHONE SUPPORT: Telecross volunteer Dave Jeffrey enjoys his work. between 30 and 40 people. Dave has a quick chat for a couple of minutes with the client, making sure they are OK and giving them a human connection for those who don’t have regular communication with the world outside their home. If the call isn’t answered after three attempts, then “plan B” is

put into action. “One lady we rang up had been on the floor for about 12 hours,” he said. “When she didn’t answer, we notified the relevant contact and they went around and used their key, finding the old girl. That would have saved her life.” He also volunteers for the Telechat service. Every day of the week

Dave calls one person at a specified time from his home phone. “I talk to them for as long or as little as you or they like,” Dave said. “For me, it’s personally satisfying.” For more information, go to redcross.org.au/gethelp/communityservices/telecross or phone 1300 885 698.

Entertainment, Information Tables, Food Fun & Friendship

Seniors Week Wednesday

21 August

EXPO

AT THE PALM BEACH SHARE N CARE 31 TENTH AVE PALM BEACH

9.00am - 2.00pm Free Morning Tea from 9.00am!

WHAT’S HAPPENING? Proudly supported by; Palm Beach Share N Care Centre, Gold Coast 60’s and Better and Currumbin RSL. The following service providers will be present; x DHS (Centrelink) x Breast & Bowel Screening x Australian Hearing x Aged & Disability Advocates x Advance Care Planning x Feros Care (Virtual Seniors Centre) x City of Gold Coast, Active & Health Program x Volunteering Gold Coast x Home Instead Care x 60s & Better Program x Retired Online x Office of Fair Trading x Red Cross, Churches of Christ and many more! We acknowledge seniors week funding from Council of the Ageing (COTA) and the City of Gold Coast.

9.15am 10.15am 11.15am 12.45pm

★ FREE BUS ★ FREE ENTRY ★ LUCKY DOOR PRIZES ★ RAFFLE

Advance Care Planning Learn to be more aware and avoid scams ADA Australia - Free Advocacy Support Free Performance by “The Suns” "The Suns" are Spotlight Theatre Senior's Group performing a variety show - singing, dancing, comedy and colourful costumes. Delighting audiences and having fun!

Registration is essential for lunch and FREE transport from the Pines Shopping Centre.

Please call 5525 6466 to register!

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

FEATURE

QUEENSLAND SENIORS WEEK 2019

SAVVYY SENIORS: Joyce Leanage, Vera Sumner, Ana Maria Traverso, diversonal therapist Sharon Guarnaccia and Patricia Elvin with a new smart screen. Photo: Contributed

Big screen connection Tania Phillips THEY say it’s never too early to start learning to use a computer, but therapists at the Ozcare Day Respite Centre at Burleigh are proving it’s also never too late. Ozcare diversional therapist Sharon Guarnaccia said the group had started rolling out giant smart tablets aimed at not only teaching older people how to use new technology but also allowing for group activities which could involve all older people at the centre, including those living with dementia. Sharon said the new “smart” screen, which looked like a television

and was on wheels for better mobility, was used in group activities and interactive games, as well as a tool to teach the finer points of using social media and the net in general. She said while many thought the internet was “not of their generation”, it didn’t mean they couldn’t use it and, in fact, there were a lot of older people who were already pretty tech savvy. “We are empowering the older Australians in our care to access the internet and increase their social connectedness as many are living with more dispersed families than ever before,” she said. Connected to the internet via its own built-in

web browser, the smart Ultra HD screen acts like a giant smart tablet, allowing users to zoom, pan, flick and swipe content found online such as images, sound and video. Respite centre users were also connected to vast library of resources alongside 2.4 million other classrooms around the world using the smart boards as teaching tools. Sharon said the Burleigh Heads centre clients were engaging with the screen daily through card games, music and images as part of “reminiscence” therapy. However, they will soon learn to skype on the screen so they can join a growing number of older Australians engaging in

tele-medicine in which patients stay in touch with health practitioners on their own digital devices at home. Screen users can also draw directly onto the surface with their fingers, hands or knuckles and the artwork can be printed out for display. “It is a lot more challenging and gets those synapses firing for many of our clients, especially those who are living with dementia,” she said. “But some of them are already that savvy that they have their own smart phones and we can connect those and have uploaded images onto the screen for others to see. “The beauty of the screen is that it is

instantaneous because it is connected to the internet so, if someone mentions the name of a car from their youth – they can bring up an image, which can sometimes be quite emotional for them when they start to talk about the old days.” Ozcare Burleigh Heads DRC co-ordinator Kylie Jones said the not-for-profit aged care provider was evaluating the use of other smart boards as part of dementia therapy across the state. She said the project followed a latest report by Australia’s eSafety Commissioner that showed just over half of Australians aged 70 or older were now online – the smallest cohort in the

country. “The data shows just 51 per cent in this age group are using the internet to help live their lives, searching for recipes, cinema times, public transport timetable and online shopping,” Ms Jones said. “But with findings showing that 31 per cent of total childcare hours involve grandparents, the government is trying to tackle the fear of technology and we can recognize the huge benefits in doing that for our clients.” As part of the government program, a new app is also being developed for grandparents to help them engage with their grandchildren online.

Palliative care a ‘core business’ in aged care PALLIATIVE Care Australia (PCA) Board Chair Dr Jane Fischer recently appeared as a witness at the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety person-centred care hearing in Perth, highlighting the urgent need for palliative care to be considered as ‘core business’ in aged care.

Dr Fischer examined access and quality of palliative care in aged care. As part of Dr Fischer’s testimony she highlighted PCA’s points to improve palliative care in aged care. ■ Aged care policy should align with the World Health

Organisation definition of palliative care and not be restricted to ‘end of life’ or last days/weeks. ■ Palliative care must be included and clearly articulated in the Aged Care Quality Standards, which all Commonwealth funded aged care services are required to meet. ■ All undergraduate

nursing, allied health, medical courses and certificate courses for care workers must include mandatory units on palliative care. ■ Establish National Minimum Data Sets for palliative care which includes both health and aged care. ■ Funding is needed to fully implement the

National Palliative Care Strategy ensuring aged care is included. ■ Investment and the development of innovative models of care are required to ensure older people have equitable access to specialist palliative care. ■ Greater focus on community awareness on

death and dying, palliative care and advance care planning. Hearing transcripts and recordings from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety are available online, go to https://agedcare. royalcommission.gov.au/ hearings/Pages/ Webcast.aspx.

FEATURE

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Baku’s stunning buildings Paul Coffey I’M IN Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, on the Caspian Sea, north of Iran, at the start of a two-week tour with Peregrine Adventures through Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia. It’s my first step in a longish Europe trip; in a few weeks my wife Anne and I will meet up in Prague. I’m stunned by Baku. I knew it had some interesting architecture, but I didn’t expect the innovation that I’ve seen. Even the drive in from the airport was a joy: truly amazing buildings and wonderful urban design. In the city proper there is a mix of architectural styles; some Islamic motifs, neo-classical columns, early 20th century mansions that fuse neo-Gothic and neo-Baroque elements, and timber balconies that jut out from the building facades. Many apartment buildings even have interesting design elements that provide variety instead of dreary

CONTRASTS: The architecture in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan is a magnificent juxtaposition to the ancient city.

Photos: Paul Coffey

sameness. The bridges have elegant balustrading, the roadside landscaping is careful and formal-ish, the street lights and some poster columns and borrowed direct from Paris; together with the street trees and some wide boulevards, there’s a distinct Parisian feel. But there are also delightful news stands or Kiosk Press that I saw in

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan.

Marriage of old and new in Baku,

Istanbul decades ago (the word ‘kiosk’ is a Turkish word). Even the service stations are designed with some flair. There’s no sign of brutalist Soviet architecture here. Just as importantly signage is muted: no huge billboards along roadsides, no large neon signs or giant screens, and no big arches at the McDonald’s – it’s like

Noosa’s design principles but on a much larger scale. And there’s no litter. The city is clean, but not sterile. Clever up-lighting on the city’s old buildings at night is exquisite. And it has an old city too. It’s a delightful walled enclave with some historical buildings, lots of little winding alleyways, some cobblestoned

streets and plenty of touristy cafes and restaurants. Yes, there’s been a lot of renovation, which is ongoing, but old cities are just great. No doubt a great deal of renovation has been necessary after the 70-year period of Soviet overlordship from 1920 until Azerbaijan independence in 1991. And it’s not crowded;

you can quickly find yourself alone, and there’s a gentle, casual feel to the tourism game. I love it! Odd fact: Baku is 28 metres below sea level, the lowest-lying capital city in the world. My driver from the airport seemed to consider the 120km per hour speed limit inadequate for getting from A to B, and many others thought likewise. Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia form the sub-region known as the South Caucasus, that is south of the Caucasus mountain range, which runs east-west between the Caspian Sea and the Black Sea. North of here is Russia. To the south are Turkey and Iran. There are a multitude of different ethnic groups, and languages, and therefore a great deal of historical tensions and conflicts within the Caucasus. It’s been sandwiched between Persian and Byzantine (and earlier, Roman) empires; and fought over by Ottoman, Persian and Russian empires.

The cobblestone streets of Baku.

The Baku buildings are eye-catching.

A traditional street wedding.

FR EE

IN CL IN . SU RA NC E! *

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

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Robin Boyd leads design

AS PART of the Robin Boyd centenary celebrations, Heide Museum of Modern Art, Melbourne will present Robin Boyd: Design Legend, a new exhibition celebrating the work of one of Australia’s most well-known architects, and one of the nation’s first public intellectuals and media celebrities. Presented in the iconic modernist building Heide II from August 3 to October 27, the exhibition is a major event in the centenary celebrations of Boyd’s birth and explores some of his key design themes and principles through ten of his distinctive houses. “Heide’s rich history in design and architecture makes it the perfect place to reflect on Robin Boyd’s remarkable career and enduring legacy,” Heide Museum of Modern Art Artistic Director Lesley Harding said. During his career, Boyd designed more than 300 projects, from residences to civic buildings, and was driven to prompt, inspire and provoke an awareness of good design among the widest possible audience. As well as photographs and drawings of each of the ten houses, the exhibition will include architectural models created by RMIT Master of Architecture students supervised by architect Christopher Hewson, a dynamic new filmic narrative on Boyd’s life and work, and original archival material.

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During his career Robin Boyd designed more than 300 projects, from residences to civic buildings, and was driven to prompt, inspire and provoke an awareness of good design among the widest possible audience. Some of key design themes are seen in the influential House of Tomorrow (1949), Boyd’s own house in Walsh Street, South Yarra (1958), the renowned Featherston house, Ivanhoe (1967–9) and several houses local to Heide. Many of the photographs in the exhibition are by acclaimed architectural photographers such as Mark Strizic, Wolfgang Sievers and John Gollings. The exhibition also offers insight into his work in other disciplines, from publishing to furniture and exhibition design. Boyd was an academic, author and public lecturer, known by many for his Boyer Lectures broadcast by the ABC and his highly influential best-seller The Australian Ugliness, which opened up debate in Australia about design, architecture and urban planning. For Boyd, good design was not the preserve of the elite or the architectural fraternity, but something that should be available to the broader community. From 1947-1953, he was the inaugural director of the Small Homes Service, run by the Royal Victorian Institute of Architects in conjunction with The Age. The highly successful service developed, and made available for £5, plans for 40 different

COWBOYS/CAVES See Cowboys in action at Texas Longhorn Ranch, visit Historical Charters

architect-designed homes published in The Age. The exhibition spaces will suggest an architectural studio, with photographs, plans and sections of the ten Boyd houses pinned to the walls and the models displayed alongside them. Within the exhibition will be a range of Boyd’s furniture made under license by K5+Kinnarps in collaboration with designer Garry Emery. The pieces will be auctioned at the end of the exhibition period, with the funds raised supporting both Heide and the Boyd Foundation. Art Talk: On August 4 from 3pm. Join Boyd expert Tony Lee and Senior Curator Kendrah Morgan as they give insight into Boyd’s residential projects and design themes. Morning Tea Robin Boyd: On August 10 from 11am. Senior Curator Kendrah Morgan for a curator-led tour followed by a light morning tea. Open Home Tours: Homes designed by Boyd will be open to the publicfrom 12-4pm in 30-minute sessions.

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Tulip Time in Bowral — one of Australia’s oldest & best loved ﬂoral Festivals and The Canberra Floriade — Australia’s biggest celebration of spring — showcasing a million ﬂowers throughout Canberra’s Commonwealth Park. 7 Days from $1,990.

Tasmania, “the Island of Inspiration” is an island of dramatic coastlines, quaint villages, convict-built heritage and magniﬁcent food and wine. Incl Hobart, Port Arthur, Derwent Bridge, Tamar Valley, Beauty Point, Cradle Mt & Gordon River Cruise. 11 Days, $3,490.

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ECCENTRIC LIGHTNING RIDGE The most unique mining town in Australia, Lighting Ridge boasts with over 100yrs of opal mining history. Fossick for your own treasure on lands that 100mil years ago dinosaurs roamed. Visit Museums, Mines and Caves and even an artesian pool! 5 Days from $1,390 Departure Dates: 16 Sep

SYDNEY MILITARY TATTOO TOUR

Featuring more than 1200 performers from around the world. The Sydney show, will blend a thrilling mix of music, ceremony, military tradition, theatre and dance. Combined with a 2 night visit to the Blue Mountains including Jenolan Caves. 5 Days, $2395pp, Single add $450 Departure Dates: 14th Oct incl. return ﬂights to Sydney

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MELBOURNE VISIT: The Heide Museum of Modern Art’s landmark exhibition explores iconic designs by one of Australia's most celebrated architects.

EXPERIENCE LONGREACH & WINTON

There’s plenty of fascinating things to see and do in the heart of Qld. Visit the Qantas museum and Stockmans Hall of Fame or Winton he birthplace of Waltzing Matilda and it’s Age of Dinosaurs Museum.

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS tours.com.

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SOLO-friendly river cruise line Riviera Travel, has 11 no-singlesupplement cruises in 2020 including the seven-night cruise departing March 31, 2020, aboard the Jane Austen, round-trip from Paris to one of France’s most historic and picturesque regions, Normandy. The solo fares are available from A$3909, including nine guided excursions, onboard meals and Wi-Fi. Single travellers enjoy a cabin to themselves. Info: rivieratravel.com.au.

NASA astronomer Dr Michelle Thaller and engineer Dr Andrew Booth as guests for the Aurora Expeditions Solar Eclipse in Antarctica voyage in December 2021. Guests will be part of a once-ina-lifetime event as the full eclipse will only be visible from Antarctica in the early hours of December 4. The 22-day voyage departs Ushuaia, Argentina on November 24, 2021 and includes visits to the South Shetland Islands, the Antarctic Peninsula, Elephant Island, South Georgia and the Falklands-Malvinas. Info: phone 1800 637 688.

PANORAMA: The exclusive pontoon built for viewing the coral formations around Queensland’s Heart Island.

Photo: Salty Wings

monkeys and hand feed kangaroos. Your duties will include animal food preparation, wildlife presentations, and handing and cleaning. Info: capricorn holidays.com.au.

VOLUNTEERING

ENHANCE your next Queensland holiday in the Southern Great Barrier Reef and get hands-on with volunteerism. Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary is 28 minutes from Rockhampton and 15 minutes from Yeppoon. It lies an animal sanctuary with countless beautiful things to discover. You can cuddle a koala, hold a crocodile, snake or lizard, play with birds, interact with cheeky

SYDNEY HARBOUR 2020 OPERA

VERDI’S popular La Traviata will be performed on the Sydney Harbour stage in March and April 2020. Tickets are on sale now. Info: opera.org.au.

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WINE WEEKEND IN TASSIE

THE annual Great Eastern Wine Weekend returns September 6-8. 2019. It will showcase the best food and wines of Tasmania’s east coast. Info: freycinetlodge. com.au/WineWeekend.

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BHUTAN is one of the last great Himalayan Kingdoms and one of the most exciting ways to explore the wide-open valleys and snow-capped peaks of Bhutan is on the back of a Royal Enfield 500cc Classic motorcycle. Extreme Bike Tours has shaved $US1000 off rates for its 15-day Bhutan adventure tour in 2020 and is also offering a further 10 per cent discount for riders who book in a group of four or more. Info: extremebike

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THE intricacies of the Heart Island coral formation can now be seen up close. It’s a 30-minute helicopter flight over the Whitsunday Islands and Whitehaven Beach before approaching the Great Barrier Reef. Guests then board a futuristic glass-bottom boat before making the short journey to the Heart Reef. The cost is $999 per person and includes a return helicopter flight, tour of Heart Reef, snorkelling equipment and light catering. Info: hamiltonisland.com.au.

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SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

10 Bangkok to-do highlights Kerry Heaney WITH new budget flights from Brisbane to Bangkok, a holiday in one of Asia’s most exciting cities just got a whole lot more achievable. AirAsia, recently named Skytrax World’s Best Low-Cost Airline for the 11th year, has fares from Brisbane to Bangkok starting at just $199. Their four weekly flights bring the bustling street markets, thriving nightlife and iconic temples of Thailand’s capital city within easy reach. Here are 10 Bangkok highlights you shouldn’t miss. Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun) Standing more than 80 metres tall, Thailand’s most photographed temple on the bank of the Chao Phra River is also one of the country’s most revered. You can climb the steep stairs to the first level and marvel at the ingenious decoration created from pottery shards. Bangkok Flower Market Open all day, every day, this market is filled with

beautiful local blooms and exquisite, handmade Phuang Malai garlands. You’ll see orchids, lotus, jasmine, chrysanthemum, gerbera, and lilies. Most of the flowers are grown in the provinces nearest to Bangkok. Sook Siam The ground level of the ICON Siam building has been turned into a food and craft market with stalls from Thailand’s 77 provinces. It’s filled with food, flowers and produce and makes a fascinating wander. You can see traditional foods being made and try them too. Best of all, the whole market is air-conditioned, so if you can’t make an open market, this will give you a taste. River Cruise The easiest way to see both the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), ICON Siam and the Bangkok Flower Market is to take a ride on a Hop on Chao Phraya Hop-On Hop-Off Boat. Cruising the river is a fast and refreshing way to travel to the sights. An all-day, all-night pass costs just 300 baht

FLOWER POWER: Bangkok markets are full of colour.

Wat Mahathat, Ayutthaya Historical Park.

(around $14 AUS). Yaowarat Road Chinatown It all happens after sunset at Chinatown when the footpath becomes a kitchen and dining area lined with stalls. The cuisines are varied, and the queues are long, so go early and hungry. Look for stalls with a round red Michelin star sticker to find the most flavoursome treats. Jim Thompson House Museum Go to see the Bangkok home and Asian art collection of the late James H.W. Thompson (aka the Thai Silk King), but you’ll also be amazed

and definitely easier for some than others. The downside is exiting through three levels of a duty-free shopping mall, and there is no escape. Ayutthaya Historical Park This day trip from Bangkok to discover the UNESCO’s listed temple ruins and historical sites that were once Thailand’s capital city. Ayutthaya Historical Park includes Wat Phra Ram and Wat Mahathat. The Royal Palace, Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wiharn Phra Mongkol Bophit also can be found here. Staying there Stay at Shama

by the lush tropical garden. Expect to be tempted by the beautiful silk products in the adjoining store and dine in the onsite restaurant and enjoy delicious food. Thai Bus Food Tour Thailand’s first double-decker bus food tour will serve you a delicious traditional Thai style afternoon tea. You’ll also see the city sights in air-conditioned comfort. Mahanakhon Skywalk See Bangkok’s skyline from Thailand’s highest outdoor glass floor observation area on the 78th floor. It’s a lot of fun to dare yourself to step down onto the glass floor

Lakeview Asoke is a 10-minute walk to fast public transport at Asoke BTS Station and Sukhumvit MRT Station. Their shuttle bus makes the trip even easier. The spacious units all have a fully equipped kitchen, large flat-screen television with a separate lounge area and an ensuite bathroom. With a pool, fitness centre and children’s playroom, it is perfect for couples, families or intergenerational holidays. The writer travelled as a guest of Tourism Authority of Thailand and AirAsia.

Pack your bags and join us on an unforgettable tour

All our tours can be secured with a small deposit and an easy payment plan. Hunter Valley Scenic Tour including Christmas Lights - 6th -10th November 2019

Rudd’s Pub - 9th October

For this day tour we leave the Gold Coast early and head out west towards Nobby stopping along the way for a cuppa and cake. We drop by Rudd’s Pub, the original home of Dad and Dave where folklore has it Steele Rudd sat in the Heritage Lounge writing his Dave and Dave stories. It is also home to a memorial for Sister Elizabeth Kenny, who pioneered the treatment of infant paralysis. There’s a stop at a local craft shop that opens while we’re there, followed by a relaxing lunch before heading back to the Coast via Toowoomba. We stop by the Big Orange on the way back for those who like to stock up on fresh farm fruit and vegies from the Darling Downs. Price: $80pp

Brisbane Touch of History - 11th September

Spend a day exploring Brisbane. Our first stop is to see the Birdcage of St Helena Island Prison, before we continue on into the city for a tour of City Hall and the Clock Tower. After that we’ll stop for a relaxed visit to the Botanical Gardens or choose to shop in the city before heading back home. Price: $70pp

Palmer’s Coaches

Mystery Northern Rivers Tour - 29th October

Today we will be exploring pretty little towns and some beautiful hidden places not far away, but far enough to have a good game of bus bingo. Morning tea is provided and we visit a perfect little paradise for a sit down lunch with amazing views. Price: $75pp

Butterﬂy House - 28th August

We depart the Gold Coast and travel north to Clontarf where we’ll have morning tea in Pelican Park overlooking Bramble Bay. Our next stop is Bribie Island Surf Club for lunch before a visit to the delightful Butterfly House for a guided tour surround by hundreds of butterflies. The Butterfly House is run by volunteers with proceeds raised from entry fees donated to charity. Price: $78pp

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers Day Tours - 21st & 24th September Tour 1: 21st September - Carnival of Flowers with Parade. Enjoy a return luxury coach transfer to Toowoomba, a city park tour, admission to the Cobb & Co VIP seating for the Grand Central floral parade and admission to the Heritage Bank Food and Wine Festival. Price: $78pp Tour 2: 24th September - Carnival of Flowers Tour: Enjoy all of the colour of the beautiful gardens and flower beds of the city of Toowoomba as it celebrates its annual Carnival of Flowers. We’ll stop for morning tea along the way and at The Big Orange on the way back to the Coast for those who’d like to stock up on some fresh fruit and vegies. Price: $80pp with lunch

Palmers Coaches – Gold Coast. Phone (07) 5522 0028 | www.palmerscoaches.com.au

7004401ap

Join us as we travel the coast road to the fabulous Hunter Valley where we’ll spend three nights and three days exploring the area, before heading home via Port Macquarie with a one night stop at Coffs Harbour along the way. While in the Hunter Valley we’ll take in the scenery and the wonderful food and wine. There’s a behind-the-scenes tour of a winery, the chance to sample local cheeses and a visit to a popular chocolate shop. We’ll also take to the sky for an amazing helicopter ride that truly showcases the natural wonder of the Hunter. Sightseeing highlights of our time in the Hunter Valley include visits to Morpeth, Maitland Goal, and the Sister Mercy Convent where Caroline Chisholm grew up. There is dinner one night at Harrigan’s restaurant and a visit to the stunning Christmas Light Show at the Hunter Valley Gardens. When we leave the Hunter we’ll take our time heading home, dropping in to have a look at Port Macquarie and the Slim Dusty Museum, on the way to a night at Coffs Harbour. On our return the next day to the Gold Coast we let you have some free time in Byron Bay and a photo opportunity at the picturesque lighthouse. Price: $1590 twin or double, $1830 single. Includes return luxury coach transfers, four nights accommodation in a four-star hotel, breakfast each morning, lunch three days, dinner two nights, a helicopter ride, admission to the Goal, a winery tour - and a guest pack full of surprises.

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

‘‘

one of the best places on earth to see the enchanting aurora borealis.

GLORIOUS NORWAY: A panoramic view of Tromso from Mt Storsteinen.

Photos: Yvonne Gardiner

Gateway to the Arctic

This month explorers John and Yvonne Gardiner share their wonderful experiences as they discover ‘The Gateway to the Arctic’

OUR trip to Norway began in the north, at Tromso, one of the best places on earth to see the enchanting aurora borealis. Tromso lies 350 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle and is the largest city in northern Norway. The first night of searching for the elusive northern lights was the best, with shimmers of green in the late-night sky and a surprising encounter with the multi-coloured aurora from the bus on the way back to town. Despite the climatic challenges, human settlement in the Tromso area dates back thousands of years, although the city itself was founded only about 200 years ago. Tromso soon became the centre for animal trapping in the region, and in the early 1900s it was the starting point for expeditions to the Arctic – hence its nickname, Gateway to the Arctic. Apart from the phenomenal northern lights, Tromso is

The captivating Viking Ship Museum in Oslo. renowned as an adventure capital where thrill-seekers can speed up their sightseeing on an RIB (rigid inflatable boat) along a deserted fjord or

take teams of panting sled dogs for a run. A less strenuous pursuit was an overnight stay on the Lyngen Peninsula northeast of

Tromso in a “lavvo”, a glass-top teepee that allows a wide view of the night sky. These cosy cabins are equipped with wood

heaters for maximum comfort. Each day offers a rich variety of “wow” experiences. Definitely an experience

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

A street scene in the Norwegian capital, Oslo.

On the way to Flam along the Sognefjord waterway.

The Flåm Line is a 20.2km-long railway track.

The National Theatre stages world class performances.

is an adventure capital

not to miss is the cable car up Mt Storsteinen, which reveals a dazzling panorama of snow-topped mountains, the shimmering sea and an astounding vista. When we arrived back at the hotel, quite literally chilled, the hot tub and sauna revived much-travelled bodies. Norway’s attractions are many, with its spectacular scenery, a chance to see the northern lights, fascinating Viking history, and a diverse and entrancing mix of people. The capital Oslo was next on our itinerary, a city bursting with beauty and culture. Oslo was named European Green Capital 2019 for its dedication to conserving natural areas and reducing pollution. Tram 19 took us to the National Theatre at the centre of Oslo’s tourist trail. There’s no shortage of museums to explore. Most mesmerising of all was the Viking Ship Museum housing the remains of three boats. Seeing the best-preserved Viking

The Vigeland sculpture park in Oslo. boat in the world was a show-stopper. An intricately carved wooden cart, farm implements, textiles and sledges were all buried in the boat with their

high-status owner in the ninth century. Oslo’s Historical Museum hosts eclectic displays on the peoples of the Arctic region, some Egyptian mummies,

American Indians and the Middle Ages. Vigeland, aka the Sculpture Park, came highly recommended. Apparently it attracts millions of tourists a year.

While a beautiful space for ambling and appreciating the splendid autumn colours, I felt that the hundreds of sculptures modelled on naked people were

underwhelming. Next day we caught the train to Bergen, a trip lasting seven hours and the most scenic of all as it passed raging rivers, dinky timber houses, massive pine forests and snow-clad mountains. For a spectacular two-hour cruise up the Sognefjord waterway flanked by steep mountains and frequent waterfalls, we boarded a ferry at Gudwangen. Overnight we stayed in the delightful village of Flam (pronounced Flom). Never having experienced the supreme comfort of a room with a heated floor while the snow fell outside, we soaked up Norwegian hospitality and feasted on reindeer burgers. In the morning, the historical railway from Flam to Myrdal chugged for an hour through snow-white valleys and wonderful mountain scenery. It felt like being in a life-size train set, everything so ordered and tidy, including the uniformed railwaymen. It was a great experience.

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

The stars in a NZ dark sky New home of astronomy

DISCOVERING the wonders and beauty of the dark sky is also helping to uncover understanding of ancient Maori culture in New Zealand. A new home of astronomy and astro tourism has opened in Takapo (on Lake Tekapo), offering the world’s first indoor, multimedia experience combining Maori astronomy and science. Dark Sky Project, formerly Earth & Sky, has opened the doors to its new 1140sq m building on the Takapo lakefront. The centre includes the Dark Sky Diner offering spectacular lake and mountain views, and a range of day and night dining options It will be the departure point for the astro-tourism business’s outdoor, evening stargazing experiences. With Takapo in the middle of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve – the largest dark sky reserve in the world and the first to receive gold status – there is no better place

for a new home of astronomy. About the Dark Sky Experience This fully guided, state-of-the-art 45-minute experience is a world-first and has been designed to be truly of the place, reflecting some of the important research undertaken by the University of Canterbury at the Mt John Observatory as well as tatai aroraki (Maori astronomy). To ensure the Dark Sky Experience is authentic, Dark Sky Project worked with local tribal groups, leading Maori astronomy expert Professor Rangi Matamua and the University of Canterbury to bring to life the stories of the universe. Te Whare Tatai Part of the new experience is based around the concept of a Te Whare Tatai – a school dedicated to teaching Maori knowledge about the cosmos: the stars, planets, galaxies, sun, moon and everything that adorns the sky. The students of these schools learned about

STARGAZING: Dark Sky Project Centre is opened by New Zealand Governor General Dame Patsy Reddy and Maori elders. Photo: Dark Sky Project creation, the connection between the earth, sky and sea, and how to interpret signs in the sky which could predict the year’s bounty of food, forecast the weather, and even gauge when accidents or death might fall upon members of their communities.

Maori used the sky as a roadmap and calendar, not only to mark place and understand where they were, but also to mark time and seasonality so they knew when the fish were running, when the birds were big and fat, and when the soil was fertile and ready for

planting. and their seasonal way of life. The paid interactive experience provides the opportunity for multi-sensory interactions to help visitors to understand the scale of the universe, the wonder of its creation from both a scientific and cultural

perspective, as well as the wonder of some of our most recent discoveries. The goals of the reserve are to promote star-gazing and astrotourism, as well as to protect the astronomical research at the University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory.

Family agrees: it’s your turn Tracey Johnstone THERE will be no inheritance left by the time Evelyn Mollins and her husband Allan have finished their travels. The Queensland couple are part of a growing trend of Australians aged 65 and over who are spending their hard-earned money on holiday experiences. “My husband and I have worked hard for our whole lives,” the 65-year-old former bank officer said. “We have helped the kids along the way to get into their own homes. “I just feel it’s pretty much our time now.” Their three children are OK with this approach. “They are desperate for us to do what we want to do,” Evelyn said. She has talked to a lot of people of a similar age who are worrying about leaving some money for their children. “But they aren’t living their life,” she said. “None of my kids are

SPECIAL CHARM: Norfolk Island’s warm, friendly people, timeless beauty and unique history makes this the perfect destination to visit at any time.

Your Norfolk specialists SENIOR TRAVEL: Retirees Allan and Evelyn Mollins at the airport, ready to take off on their next overseas adventure. thinking along those lines. They’re busy paying their mortgages and trying to make a decent living for themselves, but they aren’t particularly worried about their future and passing on an inheritance. “I don’t think that it’s even entered their heads, to be honest.” The Scottish-born couple have travelled most of their adult life. It’s only now, with Allan retiring last month and Evelyn retiring five years

ago, that their plans to extend their trips in Australia and to overseas destinations a few times a year can be put in place. Their friends have recommended trying some short, small group tours with companies like Peregrine Adventures. Taking extended holidays isn’t in the plan as they still want to be involved in the lives of their six grandchildren. “We still look after two of the little ones every Wednesday,” Evelyn said.

PARADISE. That was Captain James Cook’s description of Norfolk Island. This paradise went on to become a harsh penal colony and home to many convicts. Today Norfolk Island is home to the descendants of the Bounty Mutineers who are incredibly proud of their heritage and culture. Norfolk Island’s warm, friendly people, timeless beauty and unique history makes this the perfect destination to visit at any time – you will find a special charm that draws visitors back time and time again. Norfolk Island is just a

short flight away with direct departures out of Brisbane with Air New Zealand. You can either travel on a valid Australian passport, or a valid Australian driver’s licence, or government approved photo identification. There is so much to see and do and surprises to be found. Did you know that beautiful Emily Bay has been voted by travellers as one of Australia’s best beaches? Norfolk Select Marketing are dedicated Norfolk Island specialists. We are ATAS accredited and offer extensive knowledge of Norfolk Island – David has just returned from his 112th

visit to the island! Our staff are all passionate about this special island destination and we have a wonderful working relationship with our suppliers on Norfolk Island. We offer fantastic deals all year round and can tailor-make your holiday package to ensure a holiday like no other. We look forward to assisting you with your travel to Norfolk Island. We love Norfolk Island and we know that you will too! For more information on Norfolk Select, phone (07) 5524 4966 for a quote now.

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

The new shingles vaccine is available

SHINGLES, also called herpes zoster, is a common but lesser known preventable disease which can severely affect older Australians. The older you are if you get shingles, the higher your risk of being seriously affected. Anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk of getting shingles later in life. About one in three people who have not been immunised against chickenpox or shingles will get shingles at some time. The Department of Health advises shingles, which is caused by a reactivation of the chickenpox virus, causes a painful localised blistering rash on any part of the skin. Most elderly people have had chickenpox as children, or as parents of children, before the era of chickenpox vaccine. Hence they are at risk of reactivation of the virus to form shingles. It’s described as a

Wellbeing

DENTAL HEALTH: Follow these easy tips to stay on top of your keep your teeth healthy. Photo: Alliance

How’s your teeth?

BETTER HEALTH: Anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk of getting shingles later in life. Photo: fstop123 serious disease because it can cause severe nerve pain that can last for months and even years. This has a great impact on quality of life. Shingles in its early stage is contagious and so also has implications for carers. It can also lead to: ■ Serious eye problems,

including blindness ■ Pneumonia ■ Hearing problems ■ Swelling of the brain ■ Or worse, death Shingles immunisation development is relatively recent and is currently recommended for free under the National Immunisation Program for adults aged 70 years to 79 years.

It is also recommended for people aged 60 to 69 years, 80 years and older, and for those aged 50 or over who live in the same household as someone who has a weakened immune system. For more information about shingles, go to beta.health.gov.au/health - topics/shingles-herpeszoster.

WE NEED to twice daily brush, once daily floss, eat healthy and regular visit our dentist to maintain good dental health. Food, glorious food Our eating habits play a major role in tooth decay which is a diet related disease. What to do? Eat three regular meal times a day rather than snacking and grazing, and limit sugary treats to be part of a meal rather than as a snack. Get drinking, water that is Tap water in most areas of Australia contains fluoride, one of the easiest and most beneficial ways to help prevent tooth decay. Regularly sip it

throughout the day, including with and right after meals. Chew on this? Chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after eating can prompt your mouth to produce more saliva, which helps neutralise decay-causing acid attacks. Brushing Brush for at least two minutes in the morning and at night. Too much pressure when brushing can damage your gums and tooth enamel. Which toothpaste? Choose one that contains fluoride. Fluoride can also help remineralise (heal or reverse) early decay. Info: ada.org.au.

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AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

BETTER UNDERSTANDING: Endometriosis research scientist Professor Grant Montgomery.

Photo: Anjanette Webb

Cure for endometriosis?

Kerry Heaney IT AFFECTS 10 per cent of Australian women and costs the economy $7.4 billion every year in lost productivity according to a recent Ernst and Young study, but the search for a cure for endometriosis remains a clinical challenge. For 68-year-old Judith Perryn, who first experienced symptoms at age 12, searching for a cure has been a lifetime task. It even earned her an

OAM in 2001 for service to the development of public health awareness and education through the Endometriosis Association of Queensland. “When I was first diagnosed, I had to go to the library and look it up in medical textbooks to find out anything. Now people at least know the word, endometriosis,” Judith said. Despite looking healthy, she was in a constant state of excruciating pain and endured a range of surgeries, treatments and

medications. “Until we find a cure, everything is just a band-aid of treating the symptoms, and they have been doing the same thing for 30 years,” Judith said. Professor Grant Montgomery of The University of Queensland’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience is leading the charge in endometriosis research in Australia to help women like Judith. He is currently exploring whether there could be sub-types of

endometriosis, similar to many cancers, requiring different treatment options. His team’s research has identified the genetic risk factors and is looking at how previous cancer genomic studies can be applied to better understand the disease. “We don’t know if there are sub-types of endometriosis. However, we are currently working to understand this, as this could potentially mean endometriosis is treated differently based on the type, as is done with

some tumours such as in breast cancer,” Prof Montgomery said. “Because we don’t know the cause of endometriosis, current treatment is only treating symptoms but not the cause, which means treatment is not effective in all cases. “Over the next five years of our research program, we will be moving towards a translational focus to understand if there are sub-types of the disease and various treatments, as well as understanding

some of the cell biology in the initiation of the disease, building on our previous genetic and genomic studies to hopefully find better treatments.” Although the causes of endometriosis still remain unclear and treatment is still a major clinical challenge, current research is helping improve diagnosis and treatment for women. Info and donations: giving.uq.edu.au/funds/ endometriosisresearchimber.

Be Medicine Wise and stay on top of your medications

■ Keep a medicines list Keeping a written list of your medicines is a great way to keep track of the medicines you are currently taking and why you are taking them. Remember to note the active ingredient of the medicine, what it is for, the dose and when to take it. Share and update your medicines list with your health professional when you change your medicines. NPS MedicineWise has a medicines list to download. ■ Use the MedicineWise app The MedicineWise app helps keep track of your medicines. It can store a list of your medicines, schedule reminders and provide information on your medicines. It can also help people who care for loved ones who use multiple medicines Download the MedicineWise app from your preferred app store. ■ Call the Medicines Line The Medicines Line is a free service from NPS

‘‘

Share and update your medicines list with your health professional MedicineWise providing consumers with information from health professionals on prescription, over-thecounter and complementary medicines (herbal, ‘natural’, vitamins and minerals). If you have any questions about your medicines, phone 1300 633 424 for the cost of a local call (calls from mobiles may cost more). Hours of operation are Monday-Friday 9am-5pm AEST (excluding public holidays). Ask your health professional if you have

CAREFUL:Australians are being urged to be careful about inappropriately mixing their medicines to reduce the risk of harmful medicine interactions. As part of the annual NPS MedicineWise campaign - Be Medicinewise Week any questions Using your medicines properly is the best way to get the most out of your medicines, safely. If there is something you don’t know or don’t

understand, or if you haven’t checked when something changes with your medicines, then you need to ask. Asking your health professional any

questions you may have is the best way to get the most from your medicine. ■ The Choosing Wisely Australia initiative has resources to guide you in a conversation with your

doctor healthcare provider about any medicines. Info: choosingwisely.org.au/ resources/consumers/ 5-questions-to-askyour-doctor.

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

WELLBEING

Dementia tops the list for women

NEW research has revealed the reasons the rate of Alzheimer’s disease is higher in women than in men. The study was presented at the recent Alzheimer’s Association International Conference. Scientists from the Centre for Cognitive Medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Centre have identified how the Alzheimer’s-related protein tau spreads in the brain. The ways in which proteins spread may help explain why the prevalence of Alzheimer’s is higher in women than in men. The research suggests that tau spreads through the brain like an infection, moving from neuron to neuron and turning other proteins into abnormal

FAST FACTS ❚ In Australia dementia is the leading cause of death in women with 64.5 per cent dementia related. About two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s are women ❚ If USA researcher findings are proven, then they suggest sex-specific approaches may be needed to prevent Alzheimer’s tangles that result in the death of brain cells. The researchers found that the structure of tau networks is different in men and women, with women having a larger number of “bridging

regions” that connect various areas of the brain. This may enable tau to spread more easily between brain regions, increasing the speed at which it accumulates and putting women at greater risk for Alzheimer’s disease, the investigators theorised. Further research is needed to confirm that women have an accelerated spread of tau. About two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s are women. In Australia, dementia is the leading cause of death in women with 64.5 per cent dementia related. If USA researcher findings are proven, then they suggest sex-specific approaches may be needed to prevent Alzheimer’s.

WOMEN’S HEALTH: Researchers are studying why Alzheimer’s is higher in women than in men. Photo: Katarzyna Bialasiewicz “This could include earlier treatment, lifestyle interventions and/or remedial help for memory,” the researchers report. “Understanding how different biological processes influence our memory is a really important topic,” Assistant Professor of

Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences and lead investigator for the study Dr Sepi Shokouhi said. “Sex-specific differences in the brain’s pathological, neuroanatomical and functional organisation may map into differences at a neurobehavioral and

cognitive level, thus explaining differences in the prevalence of neurodegenerative disorders and helping us develop appropriate treatments.”

is looking for patients’ feedback about their colonoscopy to help in the organisation’s work. Go to bowelcancer australia.org/ mycolonoscopy experience.org.

them. Note the active ingredient of the medicine, what it is for, the dose and when to take it. Share and update your medicines list with your health professional when you change your medicines. NPS MedicineWise has a medicines list to download. Use MedicineWise app The MedicineWise app helps keep track of your medicines. It can store a list of your medicines, schedule reminders and provide information on your medicines.

Call the Medicines Line The Medicines Line is a free service from NPS MedicineWise providing information from health professionals on prescription, over-thecounter and complementary medicines (herbal, ‘natural’, vitamins and minerals). If you have any questions, phone 1300 633 for the cost of a local call (calls from mobiles may cost more). Hours of operation are Monday to Friday 9am-5pm AEST (excluding public holidays).

The Australian Dementia Helpline is at dementia.org.au/helpline or phone 1800 100 500

HEALTH BRIEFS

THE Federal Government is providing $21 million for 13 research projects that focus on risk reduction, prevention and tracking of dementia. Some of the projects to receive this funding are: ■ Translating the evidence on dementia risk reduction to generate assessments. ■ Advice and training for health professionals, policymakers, patients and public.

■ Diet and exercise to reduce cognitive decline and dementia risks in older Australians living independently. ■ Reducing sleep apnoea for the prevention of dementia. ■ Taking a whole-of-day approach to optimising activity to prevent dementia in people with type 2 diabetes. ■ Cardiovascular exercise to prevent cognitive decline in high-risk patient populations. ■ Reducing dementia risk in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

communities. ■ Leveraging electronic medical records and routine administrative data towards a population approach for monitoring dementia frequency, risk factors and management. “Without a medical breakthrough, it is predicted that more than 1.1 million Australians will be living with dementia by 2056,” Health Minister Greg Hunt said.

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PRETTY IN PINK: Dorothy Harles from Arcare Helensvale St James celebrated her 100th birthday with a whole lot of pink!

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IT WAS a fun-filled birthday weekend for Dorothy Harles at Arcare Helensvale St James as she celebrated her 100th birthday with a whole lot of pink! On Saturday, close friends and families of Dorothy’s were invited along to a birthday party at the residence cafe. Team members had decorated the cafe with ‘100’ balloons, pink tablecloth, pink balloons and a pink cake, making a perfect atmosphere for Dorthy and family to celebrate a very special birthday. It proved the perfect party place when the whole cafe was filled with laughter and joy as everyone sang her Happy Birthday, while Dorothy stood beaming as she was surrounded by her loved ones. On turning 100 years old, Dorothy also received a special card from Queen Elizabeth II congratulating her on achieving this

‘‘

Dorothy also received a special card from Queen Elizabeth II... milestone. And it was twice the fun on Monday, when Dorothy celebrated her 100th birthday for the second time with team members, clients and family. A delicious, colourful and tasty array of food was prepared by the food services team which included fish bites, lamingtons, cake, calamari, quiches, sandwiches and pies. As Dorothy blew out the candles on her second birthday cake for the week, residence manager Fiona joked about having one hundred candles for Dorothy to blow out. One of our volunteers Michelle also said: “Here’s to a lovely birthday to an even lovelier lady.”

When asked about having any words of wisdom, Dorothy cheekily said: “It’s a secret, I keep them to myself.” Dorothy began her Arcare journey with us on June 10 at Sanctuary Manors, then Helensvale St James. She and her family had looked at seven other aged care residences, knowing that Arcare was the one. As they reminisced memorable stories of Dorothy, her daughter-in-law shared that Dorothy’s love and passion for gardening, cooking and baking is probably what keeps her going day by day. While her son Bruce happily noted that his mum could recite the alphabet backwards! Everyone encouraged Dorothy to give us a demonstration and in under five seconds, she was able to recite the entire alphabet from back to front. She definitely has talent!

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

WELLBEING

Your wish, their command

An opportunity to fulfil the last wishes of terminally ill people A DEDICATED ambulance will grant Queenslanders dying wishes. Ambulance Wish Queensland will allow terminally ill Queenslanders to achieve wishes they would otherwise be unable to achieve. “Fulfilling the final wishes of people can be challenging as you could be transporting someone who can’t walk, or sit in a chair, or who might require continuous oxygen or other medical appliances and support,” Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles said. “With the Ambulance Wish Queensland program medically trained volunteers, adapted ambulances, and necessary equipment will transport people to fulfil their wish successfully and safely. “I know Palliative Care Queensland has more donation and support opportunities, including decommissioned vehicles, parking, vehicle maintenance, electronic stretchers, marketing and promotion.”

“We are the first to bring it to Australia, after a member of the community on the Gold Coast was inspired and approached us about the idea,” Palliative Care Queensland CEO Shyla Mills said.

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The program is currently recruiting and training volunteers The program is currently recruiting and training volunteers and seeking support from donors, sponsors and partners to enable wishes to be fulfilled from later this year. Requests for wishes will officially open on December 1. “Every Queenslander is touched by loss, dying and grief at one point in their life,” Ms Mills said. “This new program will enable us to reach more people and help

GIVING: Trained Ambulance Wish Queensland officers will be able to fulfil the final dying wishes of patients.

Queenslanders living with a terminal illness fulfil their final wishes.” The Queensland Government has

contributed a de-commissioned ambulance and initial funding of $50,000 along with $506,000 from PCQ.

■ For more information on how to support PCQ’s Ambulance Wish Queensland program, phone PCQ on

3145 0329, visit the website ambulance wishqld.or.au or email hello@ambulance wishqld.org.au.

If you are looking for a quiet eating experience... HOW did restaurants and cafes get so noisy that you can’t even hear your dining companion? With one in six Australians experiencing hearing loss, loud background noise while dining leads to a less enjoyable dining experience for many people. General Manager for Food Strategy Chris Green said noise is a consideration in the brief for some of the restaurants and cafes they design. “Most clients want that soothing ambience, but some actually want the hustle that comes from clatter and chatter,” she said. While some background clatter is welcoming, the current industrial warehouse styling trend which features mostly hard surfaces amplifies sounds around diners. “Sound bounces so hard surfaces such as concrete floors, hard chairs and hollow ceilings increase it,” Chris said.

“Adding soft furnishing will absorb sound to reduce the din and echo, which is a simple, stylish way to address the issue. “We suggest dense fabric wall hangings, soft floor coverings, curtains, upholstered seating, tablecloth and cushions.” Restaurants also need to consider sounds from adjoining businesses or road noise which all adds to the din in a restaurant. Chris said that can be blocked with design and infrastructure such as soundproof walls or double glazing. “If you’ve ever been into a Cafe 63, you’ll notice it has a calm and quiet atmosphere,” Chris said. “This is because of the green imitation grass carpet throughout the cafe. “It has maximum noise absorption qualities and has become a signature part of their brand and design. “It’s not everyone’s cup of tea for decor, but it has the maximum effect.” How can you find a quiet restaurant for a pleasant dining

LESS DINING NOISE: Cafe 63 in Pickering St, Enoggera, features green carpet. experience? Try researching your venue on SoundPrint. It’s an app that allows users to measure sound and then share that in a rating on the app to help others find a quiet spot to eat. Choose your dining location carefully. Some places are always going to be noisy because of their high ceilings, exposed brick walls, concrete or tiled floors, which just bounce the sound around. No soft furnishings (table clothes, upholstered chairs,

curtains, cushions) to soak up the racket mean it is going to be a noisy place. You also can dine early before the crowds and ask for a quiet table or in an area off to the side, outside or away from overhead speakers. If it is too loud, complain about the sound levels and ask management to turn the music down. The best solution is to vote with your feet and frequent dining spots where the noise suits your comfort level and enjoy your meal in comfort.

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Money

Dianne Charman RECENTLY there has been a lot of chatter around deeming rates and changes made for part-pensioners. Deeming is the method that Centrelink and the Department of Veterans Affairs use to calculate the income from your financial assets when determining your entitlements for the Age Pension (as well as other benefits such as Disability Support Pension and Newstart Allowance) under a means test. Deeming assumes that financial investments are earning a set rate of income, regardless of the amount they are actually earning. There are two components of means testing – an asset test and an income test. Centrelink calculates your Age Pension on the test that generates the lowest eligible pension amount. For seniors with financial assets who are assessed under the income test, the change in deeming rates is welcome given the current low interest rate environment. The government has cut the deeming rate for large investments from 3.25 per cent to three per cent,

What is deeming ...and why care?

and for smaller ones from 1.75 per cent all the way down to one per cent. Individuals may earn up to $174 per fortnight, couples up to $308 before their pension entitlements are impacted by the income test. Income in excess of these amounts reduces pension entitlements by $0.50 for every dollar assessed for income test purposes. The changes mean that couples whose income is assessed using deeming may receive up to $1053 extra year, while singles could receive up to $804 extra a year. While the payments will be backdated to July 1, 2019 the payment adjustments will be processed from the end of September 2019. So, what should I be doing? Embrace technology My biggest tip is to become friends with the MyGov portal. Learning how to navigate the website will pre-empt the need for long, frustrating calls and time spent waiting on hold to Centrelink. Embracing new technology might seem a little overwhelming at first but it’s definitely worth it in the long run.

Regular reviews Regular maintenance and keeping your Centrelink details up to date will pay off, both in terms of your finances and your valuable time. I helped clients last year update investment values during the share market downturn. Doing so resulted in a back payment of $517 and an increase in pension entitlement of $42 per fortnight per person or $2184. Don’t overvalue your home contents When adding your home contents remember this is not the insured amount but the ‘fire sale’ value. Think about if you were to put all your possessions in a garage sale, what would you receive? I’ve seen cases where home and contents are valued at $60,000 and when you think about the fire sale value it’s really nowhere near this amount. Check your super / income Your superannuation/ income stream provider updates Centrelink with your balances in March and September each year. If you see a change in your pension payment around then check the

MONEY ADVICE: Understand deeming and how it works. latest balances on MyGov as this might explain the adjustment and save you another Centrelink phone call. Finally, here are a few things you can update / do yourself online: ■ Upload bank statements, rental agreements, superannuation and income stream information ■ Upload receipt details for assets purchases such as your new car, trailer, caravan,

motorcycle etc ■ Update your income ■ Change your bank account details ■ Update your personal details, such as change of address, phone numbers, email ■ Lodge your application for Age Pension, Carer’s Allowance or Pension ■ Manage appointments with Centrelink ■ Change your nominee arrangements ■ View your payments history and next payment details

Photo: Wavebreakmedia

■ Submit complaints or provide feedback Dianne Charman, of Jade Financial Group, is an authorised representative of AMP Financial Planning Pty Ltd. Any advice given is general only and has not taken into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consult a financial planner to consider how appropriate the advice is to your objectives, financial situation and needs.

Superannuation catch-up provisions explained FINANCE commentator Andrew Heaven, AMP financial planner at WealthPartners Financial Solutions, addresses how superannuation “catch up” provisions, that came into effect from July 1, will work. His example is a person aged 55 and with a super balance of $405,000. He earns $100,000 a year and receives the 9.5 per cent employer superannuation contributions. Since July 1, 2018, individuals with a total superannuation balance of less than $500,000 are able to carry forward their unused Concessional Contribution (CC) cap for up to five years. The total superannuation balance is calculated by adding together all the amounts you have in the accumulation phase and pension phase of your super at June 30 of each

financial year. The CC cap refers to the limit on the concessional superannuation contributions you can make in a financial year. This includes salary sacrifice and compulsory employer contributions, as well as any personal contributions which you may claim as a tax deduction in your tax return. The cap for the 2018–2019 tax year is $25,000. Amounts of unused CCs arise when you have not fully used your CC cap in a tax year. Individuals will be able to utilise their unused CC cap on a rolling basis for a period of five years. Amounts that have not been utilised after five years will expire. If you earn $100,000 and receive 9.5% Employer Superannuation Guarantee Contributions (SGC), you receive $9500 of CCs.

MONEY ADVICE: Learn more about the new rule around superannuation contributions. Photo: Squaredpixels Assuming you make no additional concessional contributions in this financial year, you will be eligible to carry forward $15,500 of unused CC cap into future financial years from the 2018-19 tax year. Assuming your income

doesn’t increase and you made no additional concessional contributions this financial year, nor in the 2019-20 tax year, in the 2021-22 financial year, you would be able to personally contribute a tax-deductible

contribution $46,500 which represent three years of the unused CC cap of $15,500 a year. Under the rules for carry-forward contributions, your total superannuation balance is determined on your June 30 closing balance

in the financial year prior to the start of the financial year in which you wish to make the additional concessional contributions. For example, if you wanted to make a carry-forward concessional contribution in the 2019-2020 financial year, your total superannuation balance must be under $500,000 on June 30. To be eligible to contribute to superannuation you will need to be either under age 65 or satisfy the work test of 40 hours in a three-day period in the tax year prior to making a contribution if older than 65 up to age 75. The Coach is published on wealthpartners.net.au. Any general advice in this story doesn’t take account of personal objectives, financial situation and needs.

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019

FINANCE AND LAW

Top tips on self-managed super fund investments IF YOU’RE approaching or enjoying retirement and have successfully tackled the sizeable feat of managing your own superannuation fund, chances are you’re no stranger to the idea of investing your hard-earned savings to ensure financial freedom. Commercial property experts, Burgess Rawson, have noted this is certainly a growing investor demographic as Australians approaching retirement increasingly recognise the benefits of property investments as a savvy way to bolster their financial security post-working life and ensure the most bang for their buck. According to Burgess Rawson principal Pat Kelly, the company has transacted over $100 million in commercial property sales to SMSF investors in the past 12 months alone, but notes there are a myriad of factors to consider before signing the dotted line and becoming the next real estate tycoon.

Mr Kelly shares his top tips below: ■ Know how to borrow: Those looking to expand their property portfolio via their super account must do so through a ‘limited recourse borrowing arrangement’. This is a type of gearing that allows the investor to purchase a single asset, like a residential or commercial property. While geared property investment represents an attractive opportunity, it also comes with its share of risks, including higher costs, difficulty in cancelling the loan, possible tax loses from the property, and the inability to make significant alterations or renovations to the investment. ■ Consult an expert: There are various interesting tactics available that make for strategic property purchases with an SMSF, such as purchasing your business premises, allowing you to pay rent directly into your fund at market rate. Commercial property

experts can guide you on additional options here, so it’s certainly worth seeking personalised advice. ■ Play by the rules: This means not buying the property from a person related to the superannuation member, not living in the property or renting it out to a relative, as well as meeting the ‘sole purpose test’ of only providing retirement benefits to fund members. ■ Choose property wisely: When deciding on the type of property asset that will best serve you in retirement, it is important to consider both the financial and non-financial benefits on offer. For example, fast-food and childcare asset classes have proven extremely popular amongst SMSF investors in recent years, mostly due to their affordability and availability. However, other investors prefer an easily managed ‘set and forget’ purchase generally achieved through long-term lease

PROPERTY INVESTMENT: Be informed and know the risks and benefits. arrangements that can offer attractive long-term financial gains without significant property management from the buyer. ■ Know the costs: There are many hidden fees and charges which come with the territory of SMSF property purchases. Knowing all the upfront, legal, advice, ongoing property management and bank fees are imperative for anyone looking to preserve their precious super balance, before they are in too deep. To best ensure you are correctly informed, only

take SMSF financial advice from a verified Australian Financial Services (AFS) licence-holder. ■ The benefits of adequate insurance for any investment decision are obvious, however when it comes to SMSF, taking out appropriate insurance is vital. SMSF property investment demands enough cash flow to cover loan repayments, and having the buffer provided by appropriate income, life and TPD insurance ensures your obligations through the life of the loan

can be met, come what may. Recognising the importance of these five aspects of SMSF investment will ensure a firm foundation from which to launch your foray into the real estate market or look to expand your property portfolio with a new asset. Details on SMSF commercial property investing, phone Pat Kelly can be contacted on 0412 244 456 or alternatively via email pkelly@burgess rawson. com.au.

Domestic violence and law MYTH 3: A domestic violence order can only protect the victim The protection provided by a domestic violence order isn’t just limited to the victim of the domestic violence. Section 24 of the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act

A court can name a child of the aggrieved or a child who usually lives with the aggrieved on a domestic violence order to protect the child from associated domestic violence or being exposed to domestic violence. A child is considered to have been exposed to domestic violence if the child has: ■ Seen or heard an assault ■ Overheard threats of physical abuse ■ Overheard repeated denigration

■ Comforts someone who has been abused ■ Seen bruises or injuries to another person ■ Is present when police respond to a domestic violence incident The Court must consider naming a child on a domestic violence order even if the application does not specifically request that the children be named. A relative or associate of the aggrieved may be named on a domestic violence order if the Court is satisfied that naming

the person is ‘necessary or desirable’ to protect that person from domestic violence. When a person is named on a domestic violence order the conditions that apply to protect the aggrieved will also apply to the people who are named on the order. ■ Practical pointer If you are making an application for a protection order and you are seeking to name other people on the order make sure you include their full

names, date of birth and addresses on the application form. This information is intended as general legal information only for people living in Queensland and is not a substitute for individual legal advice. New Way Lawyers practices exclusively in family law and estate law and has four branch offices across southeast Queensland. Phone (07) 3548 5868 or visit newwaylawyers.com.au. 6916459ap

Carolyn Devries CEO of New Way Lawyers

2012 Qld provides that a domestic violence order can also cover other ‘named people’ who have been affected or impacted by the violence other than the victim (a victim is referred to in legislation as ‘the aggrieved’), namely: A child of the aggrieved (including an unborn child) or a child who usually lives with the aggrieved; a relative of the aggrieved; an associate of the aggrieved (e.g. new partner, flat mate or work colleague).

New Way Lawyers is a law firm with a difference. We are Australia’s First Non Proﬁt Law Firm. As a non profit law firm we are not motivated by profit or financial gain because there are no shareholders or partners in our organisation. This means that our fees for services are more affordable because unlike other law firms, the purpose of our fees is to cover costs, not to generate profit. We practice exclusively in the emotional areas of estate law and family law.

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MOTORING

AUGUST, 2019// SENIORS

‘‘

In traffic or on the open road, the ES manages to make life serene.

SPACE AND LUXURY: The Lexus ES300h Sports.

Rarefied freezing air

Grant Edwards Grant.Edwards@apn.com.au

COLD air was blasting across South Australia. Gale forces whipped topsoil skyward across the Murraylands, yet as the trees bent under the pressure, family life proved serene in the Lexus ES. The five-seater sedan remained planted despite the conditions while maintaining the marque’s renowned luxury standard. Relaunched last September, the seventh generation ES is available exclusively as a hybrid and starts just shy of $60,000 before on-road costs. It’s a proven combination of petrol and electric power — Lexus and its parent company Toyota have been champions of hybrid technology — and the perfect alternative for those not quite ready to dive deep into the world of full electrification. Sedans have lost their buying lustre in recent times, but with a family of four and more than 1000km to travel, the ES proved it can more than compete with an SUV for space and luxury.

VALUE

The Sports Luxury costs an extra $15k, which leaves nothing on the specification shelf.

Lexus embarrasses German rivals with its uncomplicated feature inclusions, gear such as a head-up display, 12.3-inch colour screen, satnav, digital radio, wireless phone charger and a sunroof. Upgrades for the Sports Luxury include three-zone aircon, power boot lid with kick sensor, heated steering wheel and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. The rear seats are also heated and can recline. Warranty coverage is slightly longer in term than some prestige rivals at four years, but distance is restricted to 100,000km. Lexus doesn’t have service packages or capped prices on maintenance, but you do get a free loan car when it’s under the mechanic’s microscope.

SAFETY

Five-star safety was awarded with a swag of technology which protects those inside the car and vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists — radar sensitivity increases at night to further protect the latter. There are 10 airbags, radar cruise control to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, blind spot monitor to stop the driver from cutting others off and parking

sensors at both ends. Road-sign assist constantly monitors changes in speed zones and when using cruise control, the driver can simply hold the button up or down to match the limit.

COMFORT

Trademark Lexus plushness comes in spades. Unless you’re in one of the V8-powered sports cars, you can bank on a Lexus being impressively quiet. This seventh-generation ES has progressed another rung with an ultra-smooth ride, and even the Sports Luxury’s 18-inch alloy wheels have a hollow rim to reduce noise. Space is akin to an old-school Holden Commodore or Ford Falcon. Five people can be housed in comfort, yet four are best suited with each corner availed generous head, leg and knee room. Those in the front have electric seat adjustment, for the driver it has 14-way capability ... just 12-way for the passenger. Cabin materials look and feel like high quality, and there are two cupholders within the main console but no bottle holders in the doors. The constant bugbear for Lexus is the

mouse-style remote touch pad which is used to navigate the primary controls — radio, satnav and various vehicle information. Cumbersome and difficult to operate on the move, it needs further refinement for more seamless operation. With the hybrid battery stored under the rear seat, the ES boasts a generous boot which was able to handle two large and two small suitcases, as well as a couple of backpacks.

DRIVING

This iteration has grown in every direction, 60mm longer, 45mm wider, 5mm lower, and its wheelbase is 50mm longer. The new architecture offers increased rigidity and along with suspension changes makes the ES more adept in the bends. Power from the four-cylinder hybrid system remains subdued, and even with sport mode engaged it will sprint from standstill to 100km/h in less than nine seconds. That’s not going to have the ES on the quarter mile start line, but this car is all about comfort and ease of driving — both aspects are well covered. Light steering makes city and rural sojourns effortless. The ‘bull horns’ on top of the instrument binnacle

enable changes drive modes. Compared to normal, ‘sport’ quickens throttle responses and changes the transmission shift program and ‘eco’ does the opposite. Among the benefits of the Lexus hybrid system is electrification without complication. No plug-ins, no recharging. It all happens without any driver intervention with charge going back into the battery. Components in the ES are lighter and improved, and Lexus has claimed 16.4 per cent fuel improvements over the outgoing model. Official average fuel consumption figures are an impressive 4.6 litres for every 100km, although with a fair amount of long highway drives we achieved six litres. That’s still impressively thrifty, but hybrids typically do their best work in

metropolitan areas where there is regular stop-start activity.

HEAD SAYS

Outstanding levels of luxury and space for the whole family with running costs that dwarf premium rivals.

HEART SAYS

The ES looks and feels expensive with grand tourer performance.

ALTERNATIVES

GENESIS G70 2.0T SPORT FROM $63,300 New arrival on the prestige scene from parent company Hyundai. Smaller in stature but closer in price, powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbo, 179kW/353Nm. For more motoring info, please see our Brisbane motoring advertisements between pages 17-20 of this edition of Seniors News.

SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2019 1

8 9

10 11 12

13 14 15

17 18

Down 1 In mythology, what nymph inhabits mountains? (5) 2 What is a mental disorder characterised by delusions of persecution? (8) 3 Which philosopher, novelist and dramatist (Jean-Paul___) was the chief French exponent of atheistic existentialism? (6) 4 What do we call a system of government by the wealthy? (10) 5 Which gas is commonly used in advertising signs? (4) 6 Hochgolling and Wildspitze are mountains in which country? (7) 9 What instrument measures the humidity of the air? (10) 11 What are precise, trivial or minor details? (8) 12 What is a person devoted to the reﬁned, sensuous enjoyment of food and drink?(7) 14 What insect often travels in swarms, stripping vegetation? (5) 16 What mournful poem is often a lament for the dead? (5) 17 What covers more than 20% of the Earth’s surface at any one time? (4)

Across 1 In Greek mythology, which poet and lyre player sought his wife in Hades after her death? (7) 4 What animal was not observed live by a European until a 1913-15 expedition to China? (5) 7 Which monetary unit was launched in January, 1999? (4) 8 What are small pieces of toast served in soup? (8) 10 Named after an annual fair held until 1855 near Dublin, what is a rowdy brawl? (10) 12 What is a swelling of the neck resulting from an enlargement of the thyroid gland? (6) 13 What Russian vehicle is drawn by three horses abreast? (6) 15 What is the mode of applying the mouth to the mouthpiece of a brass or wind instrument? (10) 18 Which mythical monster had the head of a bull and the body of a man? (8) 19 What small, high-pitched, keyless ﬂute is used in military bands? (4) 20 In ancient Mesopotamia, what type of construction was a ziggurat? (5) 21 What is a factory where skins and hides are treated? (7)

QUICK CROSSWORD

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

8 9

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.

A I

11 12 14

SUDOKU

5x5 A L O N E

T E N S E

E D G E D

Down 1. Shown (8) 2. Unaffected by emotion (5) 4. Scope or range (6) 5. Defeat tactically (12) 6. Perforated (7) 7. Weary (4) 8. Centre of operations (12) 12. Unachievable (8) 14. Self-inﬂicted setback (3,4) 16. In the middle (6) 18. Once more (5) 19. Wound covering (4)

L I M I T

QUICK CROSSWORD Across: 1. Rash 3. Hedonist 9. Violent 10. Toper 11. Accidentally 13. Exodus 15. Hoodoo 17. Inarticulate 20. Choke 21. Warfare 22. Bullseye 23. Onus. Down: 1. Revealed 2. Stoic 4. Extent 5. Outmanoeuvre 6. Impaled 7. Tire 8. Headquarters 12. Hopeless 14. Own goal 16. Midway 18. Again 19. Scab.

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

How many words of four letters or more can you make? Each letter must be used only once and all words must contain the centre letter. There is at least one nine-letter word. No words starting with a capital are allowed, no plurals ending in s unless the word is also a verb. TODAY: Good 21 Very Good 26 Excellent 33

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N A

FLITS RED RAM ONE TURN TOP SERVE HEPTAGONS

SOLUTIONS

WORD GO ROUND

A R

WORD GO ROUND

Note: more than one solution may be possible.

Across 1. Foolish (4) 3. Pleasure seeker (8) 9. Brutal (7) 10. Drunkard (5) 11. Inadvertently (12) 13. Mass migration (6) 15. Jinx (6) 17. Incoherent (12) 20. Strangle (5) 21. Armed conﬂict (7) 22. Dead centre (8) 23. Responsibility (4)

A S

19 20

airman airmen amen amine anima anime earmark emir karma main make maker mana mane mania mankier marae mare marina marine mariner mark marker mean mike mine miner mink mire name RAINMAKER ramekin ream rearm remain remark rime

R K

3/8

SUDOKU

I E

S P A R S

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