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September, 2018

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South Australian Governor Hieu Van Le and his wife Lan tell their Australian story

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WELCOME

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Spring into a new season Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor

Top gardening tips

Money matters INDEX 4 6 8 13 14 18 23 29 38 41 46 47

Cover Story: Hieu Van Le AC Profile: Suzi Dent Prostate cancer survivors What’s on Talk ‘n’ thoughts Community Group Guide Wellbeing Wanderlust Living Money Spring gardening tips Puzzles

HELLO readers, welcome to this month’s spring edition. Spring is traditionally a time of renewal and I believe our cover story truly highlights this theme. In many ways the extraordinary life of South Australian Governor Hieu Van Le runs like a movie – but this is no fantasy, it is real life and I think its authenticity gives us all hope for a better future and even renewal, no matter our age or circumstances. I hope you enjoy Tracey Johnstone’s story as much as I did. In celebration of spring, we speak to local gardeners who share their tips for a flourishing and fertile garden and, let’s face it, there is nothing like first-hand advice from people who love their gardens. Speaking of blooming gardens, in terms of travel we take a look at some of the best gardens in the world, featuring vast fields of buds, blooms and breathtaking colours. The bucket list of great world destinations continues, with another list of magnificent places on Earth to explore. But to participate in gardening and travel we

need to enjoy good health and, as always, our Wellbeing section shares an array of tips and hints to keep us good stead. Our Living section also endeavours to reveal fresh ideas to enhance our lifestyles. But here at Seniors News, we recognise the many aspects of life and this month in our Talk ‘n’ Thoughts section we highlight the HILDA report, a survey that has been tracking particular families since 2001, in order to gather social and economic data that may ultimately influence key government decision-makers. It’s not all good news and we stand with National Seniors and The Benevolent Society campaign to improve the pension. I trust you will enjoy our range of stories. Gail

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 “Sunshine Coast Seniors Newspaper”. The Seniors Newspaper is published monthly and distributed free in southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales. The Seniors newspaper stable includes Toowoomba, Wide Bay, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Northern NSW, Coffs and Clarence and Central Coast publications. Published by News Corp Australia. Printed by News Corp Australia, Yandina. Opinions expressed by contributors to Seniors Newspapers are not necessarily those of the editor or the owner/publisher and publication of advertisements implies no endorsement by the owner/publisher.

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Orchid stars set to flower Hundreds of plants on show September 14-15 FAST FACTS

Tania Phillips

GROWING INTEREST: Gold Coast District Orchid Society president Peter Emerton and club member Ruby Brown are two of the 90 members of the society gearing up for their annual show. Photo: Contributed

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and compression products. On-site staff include a highly experienced nurse. They also offer hire and delivery services throughout the Gold Coast and the surrounding areas including northern NSW. They are celebrating the opening of the store by offering a 10% discount to all pensioners until the end of September. The store caters to the general public as well as offering products and services to DVA & NDIS customers.

THE Albert Waterways Community Centre will be awash with colour later this month with the Gold Coast District Orchid Society Spring Show. And while there are 90 members from all over the Coast taking part in the event, society president Peter Emerton, 75, hopes he might just have the one to win big this year – if he can get it in the car. “I have a native orchid, the type that is found out on the swampy parts of Moreton Island, but it’s 5ft tall so I’m not sure if I can get it in the car yet,” he said. “I have a catleya coming out and I’m hoping it will still be good by then. It’s all about the timing.” And Peter would know. A member of the Gold Coast club for the past seven years, he has had an interest in the plants

Gold Coast District Orchid Society Spring Show When: September 14 (8am-4.30pm), September 15 (8am-3pm) Where: Albert Waterways Community Centre Cost: $4 adults, kids under 12 free since he was a boy in Melbourne. “As a young kid I was always impressed by the big box of cymbidium orchids sent to us by my grandmother in Sydney every year,” he said. “I stayed at her house and walked into our green house, I found something different; the humidity, the plants. It always stuck with me.” However it wasn’t until much later that he started growing orchids himself,

getting his first one after he and his wife had a disagreement. “She must have thought she was in the wrong and bought me an orchid from the local market,” he said. It was the first of many and before they left Melbourne he had a collection of hundreds. “I’m never going to get in that position again, I keep it small now with a few spectacular plants.” The Gold Coast District Orchid Society Spring Show will be held at the Albert Waterways Community Centre (corner of Hooker and Sunshine boulevards, Mermaid Waters). The show, a judged orchid and foliage event, opens Friday from 8am4.30pm and Saturday from 8am-3pm. There will be 10 traders of orchids, bromeliads, cactus and succulents and growing needs and a plant sale.

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COVER STORY

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Governor continues the

From a tiny boat to the top job Tracey Johnstone

“G’DAY mate! Welcome to Australia.” The shouted greeting wasn’t anything like what Hieu Van Le AC and his wife Lan expected to hear when they fearfully arrived in Australia. They arrived in 1977 as part of the early wave of Vietnamese refugees, huddled in a 15m wooden fishing boat with 40 other people. The trip was “horrendous”. After weeks at sea and violent rejection by coast guards along the way, the refugees arrived in the pitch dark at Melville Island. In heavy dawn fog of the following day and with grave doubts as to how Australian officialdom would receive them, their tattered boat chugged clumsily into Darwin Harbour, exhausted by the long journey. “All of a sudden,

MUCH APPRECIATED: South Australian Governor, His Excellency Hieu Van Le AC and Mrs Van Le in the grounds of Government House. Photo: AAP / Dean Martin coming towards us was the sound of an outboard motor,” Mr Le said. In the distance was a fast approaching tinnie

with two blokes resplendent in singlets and shorts, hats, white zinc noses, beer cans in hand and fishing rods

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perched on the stern. “As they got close to our hull one of them raised his stubbie up, as if proposing a toast, and

shouted out,‘g’day mate! Welcome to Australia’.” Every day for the last 41 years, the 64-year-old reminds himself of that

greeting. “It was the first experience I had with Australian people and it made a deep impression.” he said. “I knew instantly we had arrived in a welcoming country, one where a laconic, easy-going attitude was the promise of a ‘fair go’. “Back then the arrival of boat people like us was considered a significant event.” Mr Le landed in Australia at age 23, armed only with a bright mind and a firm belief in making the best of what was in front of him. His journey has been one of persistence and resilience. His life, both then and now, has had many facets. After escaping the ravages of the Vietnam War, he completed two Adelaide University degrees before working as a senior corporate regulator. Prior to becoming South Australia’s Governor, Mr Le also served for several years as member of the South Australian Multicultural and Ethnic Commission (SAMEAC).

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SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

COVER STORY

fight for a fair go ‘‘ I knew instantly we had arrived in a welcoming country. — Hieu Van Le AC

preferring their traditional food and customs. “For many cultures, the concept of nursing homes or intensive care, which is given to elders in our society, are quite different experiences to those found in their native countries. “In many cultures, older people stay in their home, in the extended family until they pass away, surrounded by the children, grandchildren and even their great-grandchildren. “The warmth of being surrounded by family members and the ambience of the bustle of daily activities plays an important part in their later lives.” Mr Le points to the busy lifestyles that people lead

today, leaving many time-poor due to pressures of work, or running a business, raising a young family, and the demands of constant and instant news and communications. “People may, in some circumstance, have very little time for themselves let alone for their family and elderly parents,” he said. “This demand on their time, and many other pressures, means that trying to find a way to make it easier for everybody is to place a loved one’s care into someone else’s hands. “The challenge is that their parents and grandparents may in some circumstances feel they are a visitor rather than an integral part of the family at the very time they should be enjoying the fruits of their working life and the happiness that brings.” Mr Le and his wife have two adult sons of whom they are very proud. Having cared for his own mother who lived until her 90s, Mr Le is well aware of the demands that brings both

emotionally and physically in wanting to provide the best support for them. “Having experienced that, as parents we don’t want to impose a burden on our sons,” he said. “We fully understand the pressures they would be under.” He smiles and chuckles when he adds “Lan and I would, of course, one day, love to have some grandchildren; no pressure”. Mr Le has enjoyed every phase of his life and appreciated the many experiences they have brought, even when confronted with adversity. “I believe there is a strength and resilience deep in everybody. It comes to the fore when challenges provide an opportunity for it to shine through,” Mr Le said. He still has a journey ahead in which he hopes to “continue to do the best I can and enjoy a fulfilling life, at every stage of the journey”. And he will follow his passion of helping to make Australia’s egalitarian society even better, fairer and more compassionate.

A FAIR GO FOR ALL: SA Governor Hieu Van Le AC with Tina Wang, Rui Love, Alice Li, Tian Love, Payel Rahman and Kylie Oyama. Photos: Calum Robertson

Mr Le at Proclamation Day in Glenelg North, South Australia.

Queen Elizabeth II receives Mr Le and his wife at Buckingham Palace in 2016. Photo: WPA Pool

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His personal, long-term, mission through these roles has been to promote Australia’s cultural diversity and harmony. Prior to 1977 Australia was populated largely by people of Anglo-Celtic and European backgrounds. Then in the ’70s came the large waves of immigrants from South East Asia. These immigrants are now ageing into their senior years. In his previous roles with SAMEAC, Mr Le noticed some important challenges ahead for ageing immigrants, particularly where English is not their first language. “Over the years, migrants have come to our shores from all corners of the world,” he said. “Each of these may have its own cultural beliefs, traditions, practices, traditional medicines and circumstances that need to be taken into account in our aged care and health system. “Some people may revert to a place of comfort, returning to their mother tongue or

NEWS

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Suzi takes a leading role

From make-up artist to inspirational speaker in their 20s. “I met Robbie 18 months ago when I was crowned the first Mrs Earth Australia we both knew straight away that we were into the same thing – ageing with a positive mindset,” Suzi explained. “And as I’ve become an inspirational speaker I love to be able to talk to people about not letting their generational mindset and their limiting self-belief stop them from achieving things and to say yes to opportunities. “Both Robbie and I competed against women who we could have given birth to, so age is just a number.” For both women pageantry has been a game-changer – a life changer – at a time when they needed it most. Robyn, a massage therapist who has operated her home business for the past 33

Tania Phillips

STAR OF THE SHOW: Make-up artist turned pageant winner, turned inspirational speaker Suzi Dent.

FREELANCE make-up artist Suzi Dent spent years making other people look glamorous and feel good about themselves and now it’s her turn. Gold Coaster Suzi, 56 – who has never been a model or into dresses and had a “complete fear of frocks” until a few years ago – was named Mrs Earth Health in 2017 and has never looked back. And now she is taking the next step, setting herself up as a professional public speaker along with friend and fellow international pageant winner Robyn Canner – when Robyn gets back from appearing on Ellen in the United States, that is. Robyn, 60, was crowned Ms World mid-year, despite competing against women

years, turned to pageantry after her beloved son died at 22 from non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma seven years ago. While she was no stranger to modelling, Suzi was used to being on the other side of the make-up brush and was surprised when she was approached by the people behind the pageants in Australia to take part. She said at the time her husband was suffering from depression and her own self esteem was at a low ebb and, despite anxieties about doing it, she decided to give it a go. Since then she has been changing her life (and that of her family) “one frock at a time”. “My husband has brownie points now because he’s married to a beauty queen.” For more information about Suzi go to, Suzident.com.

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BREAKING NEWS WAITING to 70 to retire is “gone” Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced. He "no longer" believes it’s a good idea to lift the pension, retirement age Mr Morrison told the Nine Network last Wednesday morning . The decision is due to be ratified with cabinet this week. The policy of lifting the retirement age from 67 to 70 was first adopted under the Abbott government. There is also now a Federal Minister for Senior Australians with MP Ken Wyatt (pictured) appointed to represent and champion seniors’ interests at the highest political level. Mr Wyatt will retain his other portfolios of aged care and indigenous health, senior Australians. The Minister’s focus will be “on taking a broader, whole-of-government approach to advancing the interests of senior Australians”. Seniors News is seeking from Mr Wyatt details of his new portfolio responsibilities and its relationship to senior minister portfolios that impact on seniors.

Blokes go head-on Survivors urge others to get their prostate checked now

Tracey Johnstone THEY’RE everyday blokes with a confronting story to tell. Chris Warnes and Jon Sayer have survived prostate cancer and they want other men to hear their message – get checked now. The two sailors have been friends for many years since they moved from New Zealand to set up their new lives in Queensland. Life has been about hard work and downtime on the ocean for these blokes. Chris has his own earthmoving business while Jon designs and builds offshore racing yachts and sleek powerboats. What neither gave the slightest thought to was that they could end up a statistic – one in five men are diagnosed with prostate cancer before the age of 85. But, for Chris and Jon, other than being over 50, there was no other risk factors for them – no family history of the disease, no high fat and low vegetables diet, no high testosterone levels, no obesity. So why them? Chris, now 72, was diagnosed with prostate cancer at age 62. “It was the funny thing with me,” Chris said. “I had absolutely no symptoms whatsoever, nothing. It was just because I got checked every six months that they picked it up through blood checks.” Those checks were being done because of his

SURVIVORS: Prostate cancer survivors Chris Warnes and Jon Sayer. age. “Because I was aware of it, I kept doing it.” Jon, 62, was diagnosed “one year, four months, seven days, three hours and two minutes ago”. “I was the same as Chris,” Jon added. He was aware that he was at the age where prostate cancer could be an issue for him. “I even changed to a lady doctor as I thought, no way did I want a man playing with his fingers anywhere around my bottom because I thought that was the only way you could find out.” The GP organised a full blood test. The result apparently showed some elevation of his PSA, but as nothing was said to him he assumed his health was still OK. It was only when three years later he went to another doctor for a check-up that the past blood test, plus the new

one, both showed an elevated PSA. Chris choose a full prostatectomy. “I didn’t even consider radiation,” he said. “At my age, it was the safest and I believe the best thing. I was very lucky as all my cancers were on the outside of my prostate. One had left my prostate and was heading towards my spine. “I would be dead by now had I not been checked regularly.” Jon made the same choice. “A few things I have since learnt that I wish I had been warned about earlier because I went through a fitness regime and certain diets, foods and alkalines to take the sugars and acids out of my diet, and maybe I could have attempted to fight it a different way for a while before I had the full procedure because it is a very slow growing cancer,

nine times out of 10,” Jon said. Jon is calling for more groups where men can openly discuss what they are going through. When he first found out about his diagnosis he turned to Chris and another friend, David Adams, because he knew they had experienced the prostate cancer journey and could him understand about what, when and how it was all going to be dealt with. “I just feel it’s a bit of under the table, taboo subject with men,” Jon said. He then headed to Facebook and revealed his story. “It’s a bit of a male stigma thing attached to it and lot of people don’t talk about it,” Jon said. “I was surprised the number of my friends who had been through it and I didn’t know until I opened up about it. They

Photo: Tracey Johnstone

congratulated me and gave me words of wisdom. “You need to talk about it more and go and get checked. Particularly, ask about family history of it and if that is the case you have got to start doing it at 40, not 60. “The strange thing it wasn’t in any of my relatives and my dad was one of 11 boys, and none had it. I have warned by son already.” Chris is keeping to a healthy eating regime, he keeps up his six-monthly checks and slowed down, a bit, on the beer consumption. “The strongest message I can say to anyone is don’t be frightened to go to your doctor and get your blood tests. And, if there is any doubt, get a digital check. It’s better than dying.” Talk to your GP and go to ausprostatecancer. com.au or prostate.org. au.

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SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

NEWS

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on September 12 and 19 from 10am-3pm at the Gartner Hemmingway Community Room, Victoria Towers, White Street, Southport. The cost is $388 and bookings can be made via

Imagine yourself living in the Gold Coast’s most exclusive waterfront resort designed for over 50’s. A master planned community where you can join residents for the walking group, take part in a yoga class or just enjoy a Sunday afternoon BBQ whilst swimming in the pool or playing bowls.

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WOMEN over 45 who are thinking about retirement or have already retired and are anxious about what their life will be like in the coming years can reach out and connect with others through Retiring with Joy TV. Some women have real concerns and are looking for answers about financial sustainability, accommodation options, health and well-being, the health of their partner and extended family, being alone and even being a burden on others as they age. Retiring with Joy TV host and producer Maria Paterakis is a women’s counsellor based on the Gold Coast. She has developed Retiring with Joy programs and services to help women embrace a new sense of self, passion, purpose and vitality in their retirement. Ms Paterakis is conducting her Retiring with Joy two-day program

WHAT’S ON

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Classical Corner WITH QUEENSLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

AN ORCHESTRA FOR EVERYONE WHETHER YOU COME...

To experience the big emotions of a symphony… To watch a great movie come to life… To feel the room shake from that massive brass sound… To witness a world-class musician perform a breathtaking solo… To experience the familiar… To try something new… To relax… To be roused… To feel your spine tingle…

Whatever the reason, whoever you are Queensland Symphony Orchestra is an ORCHESTRA FOR EVERYONE

Music Director Alondra de la Parra

Our set series packages allow you to enjoy ticket savings and the same great seat for every concert in the beautiful QPAC Concert Hall. The bigger the package, the more you will save. In 2019 we offer the following set-series packages: Maestro Package Enjoy orchestral favourites by the greatest composers who ever lived, performed by the world’s finest soloists and the musicians of Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Choose from 10 or 12 evening concerts.

Morning Masterworks Package Delight in five rousing 90 minute concerts in a convenient Friday morning timeslot. Join us before each concert for a complimentary morning tea. Fridays at 11am. Music on Sundays Package Five concerts featuring a mix of shorter classical works, hosted by the irrepressible Guy Noble. If you like your orchestral music fun and entertaining, these are the concerts for you. Sundays at 11.30am.

Choral Package Two spectacular concerts featuring a world class lineup of soloists and Brisbane’s best choirs. We also offer the following flexible packages: Chamber Players Package Get up close to the music-making in these intimate concerts, with music hand-picked by our musicians, held in our very own performance studio. Sundays at 3pm.

Choose-Your-Own Package Do you have a favourite soloist? Or prefer music by certain composers? Or just have a busy schedule? Whatever your reason, you’re flexible! With ChooseYour-Own packages, select three or more concerts from our 2019 season and enjoy discounted tickets and subscriber benefits.

Phone (07) 3833 5044 Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm to request a copy of our brochure, or visit qso.com.au to find out more. << Renée Jones

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In 2019 Queensland Symphony Orchestra will perform something for everyone. There will be mighty symphonies, intimate chamber music, captivating live movies, and much more. We will play music that spans the arc of history. Whether you are new to orchestral music or have been part of our family for years, I am certain you will find much to look forward to.

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

WHAT’S ON

GARDEN FESTIVAL

BOTANICAL Bazaar is where naturally wild, urban gardeners and nature lovers connect. The festival will educate and inspire nature enthusiasts of all ages. See more then 90 green exhibitors plus celebrity gardener’s talks, demonstrations, botanical art and kids’ nature activities. Learn how to grow your own food, urban and small space gardening, using medicinal herbs and sustainable living concepts. From 9am-4pm, September 16 at the Country Paradise Parklands, Nerang. Phone Stacey Panozzo for more on 0406 007 583.

THE AMAZING WORLD OF FROGS

BE IMMERSED in the secret lives of frogs and learn about the diversity of frogs on the Gold Coast and how so many species can co-exist. This walk and talk will give you a new appreciation for the amazing frogs of the Gold Coast. Dr Jean-Marc Hero is a vertebrate ecologist with over 30 years experience as a research scientist and an educator at universities around the world. When 5-7pm, Saturday, September 15 at Coombabah. Phone NaturallyGC on

What's on

Saturday, September 29 at Benowa. Phone (07) 5667 5972 or email noreply@goldcoast.qld. gov.au.

CRAFTED BEER & CIDER FESTIVAL CRAFTY: The Crafted Beer & Cider Festival will be held in Broadbeach on October 6. The lush ocean-side greens will play host to the hottest local and interstate beeristas, with more than 150 individual brews represented on the day. (07) 5667 5972, email noreply@goldcoast.qld. gov.au or visit eventbrite.com.au.

From 9-10am Sunday, September 16, Quota Park, Marine Parade, Biggera Waters.

ACTIVE PETS

THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES

HELP your dog stay fit and flexible. Learn how to safely stretch and massage your dog to improve mobility. Like us, every dog has their own range of movement and their safety and comfort is important. Understand basic stretching and massage techniques from a qualified specialist to help your dog’s recovery after exercise, as well as prevent injury. Bookings are required with limited spaces available. Phone Kylie on 0414 180 300 or email kbrookes@ goldcoast.qld.gov.au.

SPRINGFIELD High Songleaders Betty Jean, Cindy Lou, Missy and Suzy cannot wait to enjoy their senior prom. However, when the entertainment pull out at the last minute the four girls step in to save the prom and delight with their perfect four-part harmony. Including famous pop songs from the ’50s and ’60s such as Stupid Cupid, Dream Lover, Lollipop and more, this musical comedy is sure to leave you feeling absolutely marvellous. Spotlight Theatre

Complex, September 21-October 7. Phone (07) 5539 4255, email mailbox@spotlight theatre.com.au, or go to spotlighttheatre.com.au.

NERANG 200 MILER

GET ready for the Nerang 200 Miler, from September 27-30. The event is held on a looped 25km course with options of options of 200 miles, 100 miles, 50 miles and 100, 50 and 25 kilometres, pacers allowed but must register, electronic timing with progressive internet update for all event options, a free commemorative race singlet. The event will be held from 6am-8pm,

Thursday, September 27 – Sunday, September 30 at Nerang Velodrome. For more information info@goldcoastultras. com or go to nerang100 miler.com/.

BUSHTUCKER WORKSHOP

DURA, yaga, jar means grow, cook, eat! Learn to grow, cook and eat a local variety of native Yugambeh country flavours in this inspiring one-hour bush tucker workshop. As we tour the Botanic Gardens, identify a range of local bush-food plants, discover ways to incorporate the flavours into everyday cooking and pick up tips to grow bush foods in your home garden. From 9-10.30am

THE Gold Coast’s premier outdoor beer and cider event, Crafted Beer & Cider Festival, hops into its second year at Kurrawa Park, Broadbeach on Saturday, October 6. From 12-8.30pm on Saturday, October 6 at Kurrawa Park. Phone 0401 182 205 or email anna@crafted festival.com.au or go to craftedfestival.com.au.

BUGS IN OUR CREEKS

COME meet and greet some of the amazing bugs that live in the local waterways. Learn all about their habitats and lifecycles, as well as how to identify them and the important role they play in our waterway health. From 9-11am on Saturday, October 6, Robina. Phone (07) 5667 5972 or go to eventbrite.com.au.

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

NEWS

COMMUNITY

SEPTEMBER, 2018// 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.

NSA

Broadbeach/Gold Coast COME along to National Seniors Broadbeach and meet the local and very active over 50s residing in and around Broadbeach. We meet on the first Wednesday of the month at Kurrawa Surf Club at 9.45am. We have informative speakers and we lunch afterwards to get to know each other. The committee organise activities throughout the month. All welcome. Phone Jenny on 0418 215 400.

ART EXHIBITION

WE HOLD an art exhibition at the Gold Coast Community Centre, Kirra Hill Art Gallery until September 7. Open Monday to Friday from 9am-4pm. An exhibition of artworks by Terri Bradley, Heather Bell, Dawn Jones and Jon Bell. Many genres to choose from and all art is for sale at reasonable prices. Why not start your Christmas shopping now? For more information, phone Terri on 0414 376 057 or Heather on 0438 241 991.

CARER SUPPORT GROUP

ARE you caring for someone who is living with dementia? Please join us at our Ozcare Robina office to connect with other carers and healthcare professionals.

Our dementia advisors, Rebecca Wright and Deirdre Bester, will attend the meeting to provide information and resources to support your role as a carer on Thursday, November 1 from 2-4pm at Ozcare Robina, 214-218 Highfield Drive, Robina. Please note: This is a group for carers only. Hope to see you there.

GOLD COAST STROKE SUPPORT GROUP

PLEASE note that there will be no monthly meeting on the first Wednesday of September. It will be replaced by a barbecue luncheon for the Gold Coast launch of the 2018 National Stroke Awareness Week. Any stroke (or brain attack) survivor, members of their family and their carer(s) and other interested members of the public are invited and welcome to attend our meetings. Why not tell a friend, associate or business acquaintance about our group? For more information go to goldcoaststrokesupport group.org.au or phone (07) 5531 3254.

SOLACE

SOLACE is an organisation for people grieving the loss of a partner. We meet every second and fourth Wednesday at 10.30am at Broadbeach Senior

DENIM DAY: Southport Day VIEW Club enjoyed their monthly luncheon at the Southport Yacht Club last month. Denim was the theme of the day and many of our members joined in the fun. Citizens Centre, TE Peters Drive, Broadbeach. For more information, phone Betty on (07) 5580 7034.

BARGAINS FOR SENIORS

THERE is a few great free/low cost things on the Gold Coast. Star Casino Broadbeach: If you join as a member (at the concierge) for free and see new release Movies every Sunday and Monday for free; Yuen’s Fruit Market at Mermaid Waters does cheap/discounted fruit/veg boxes most days for as little as $1.99. You might be eligible for a free walker/walking aid provided by the government through my aged care.

CARRARA LIONS CLUB

WANT be part of a friendly team that positively impacts the community via project work, fundraising sausage sizzles, events and regular social activities? We are an extremely

active and welcoming club with many projects on the go. Just recently they donated toys to the ambulance and Angel Flight; catered at netball playoffs and community open days; and have helped people in need through their small grants program. And of course, every Christmas they sell the famous Lions Christmas cakes. The club meets at the Italo Club, Fairways Drive, Clear Island Waters on the first and third Wednesday of the month, 6.30pm for a 7pm. All guests welcome. For information, email secretary Bonnie carraralionsclub @gmail.com or phone 0458 481 486.

SOUTHPORT SENIOR CITIZENS

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 please go to southportseniorcitizens.

com or phone Annette 5537 1377. Membership is $8 per year with each activity costing a low $3. We celebrate Christmas twice a year and have trivia and other social functions during 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 lovely air-conditioned hall.

CURRUMBIN HAPPY GROUP

ON AUGUST 2 we celebrated our 36th birthday. Past presidents of our group are Dorothy Murphy (foundation), Sam Sell, Richard Lang, Carl Dallas and presently, Mary Alexander. Our club founding members Dorothy Murphy and Mary Alexander are retiring and Mary also celebrated her 90th birthday. The voluntary workers still

provide the same selfless service and caring for each other. Currumbin Happy Group is greatly indebted to the many wonderful helpers and supporters over the years. There have been too many to name that have donated to our cause. We meet every Tuesday from 9-11.30am at the Elanora Uniting Church, 17 Apllecross Way, Elanora. For inquiries, phone Mary Marfell on 0410 055 593.

NSAA QLD - GC SOUTH-TWIN TOWNS

NATIONAL Servicemen’s Association Of Australia Qld, Gold Coast South Twin Towns Branch NSW. Our General Meetings are held Bi Monthly on odd months from 10am QLD Time. Venue: RSL Twin-Towns, Anzac Room, Tweed Heads. Our next GM will be held on Friday, September 21. For veterans who served in any Forces of the Commonwealth CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

COMMUNITY

Robina VIEW Club celebrated its eighth birthday with a ‘Mad Hatter’s Tea Party’ theme, with over 100 VIEW Club members from around the Gold Coast.

HAPPY DAYS: Celebrating the Currumbin Happy Group’s 36th birthday is one of the club’s founding members, Dorothy Murphy.

FROM PAGE 18

third Wednesday of each month for a delicious luncheon at the picturesque Southport Yacht Club, Macarthur Parade, Main Beach overlooking the Broadwater. Time: 11.30am for noon start. Each month there are interesting guest speakers or entertainers. This is a great way to meet and make new friends. The first Friday of each month is Social Day when various ‘get-togethers’ are organised. Visitors are most welcome. For inquiries and bookings, phone Robin on (07) 5537 4593. Surfers Paradise WE HOLD our meetings and lunch on the second Tuesday of each month at the Southport Golf Club. Meeting at 11.30am for lunch at noon, always with an interesting guest speaker. New members and visitors are most welcome. For an opportunity to meet new friends and join in our social activities and really enjoyable outings, phone Nancy on 0412 639 574 or 5592 6730.

“between” 1951 -1972. Why not join us and re kindle the camaraderie you experienced during your Service. New Members are always welcome to attend. For further information phone Tom Hughes Public officer on (07) 5513 0665.

GOLD COAST BRIDGE CLUB

WE ARE located on the highway in Surfers Paradise will show you how to brush up your bridge skills or learn new ones from our experienced teachers. We provide beginners classes and 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 information, phone Lynley (07) 5538 3112 or 0418 984 856.

VIEW CLUBS

Supporting The Smith Family Learning For Life Program. Burleigh Palm Beach OUR members meet regularly to share their

passion, build lasting friendships and make a tremendous difference in the lives of the young students we support. We are always looking for new members to join us. We meet on the third Tuesday of the month at Treetops Tavern, West Burleigh. The next meeting will be on Tuesday, September 18. New members are always welcome at this friendly club. For more information, phone Ros on 0431 442 030. Coolangatta Tweed OUR next luncheon will be September 20 at the South Tweed Sports Club from 11am for a 11.30am start. We meet on the third Thursday of each month and have interesting guest speakers and social outings. All ladies welcome. Apologies/bookings via phone with Elaine on 5524 4461. Logan OUR ladies are urging the local community to support disadvantaged children and young people with their education by joining the club which sponsors three school children. We meet at 11am on the second Wednesday of the month

at the Rec Club, Alba Lane (off Jacaranda Avenue), Kingston. Cost of $25 includes a two course lunch and a guest speaker. Proceeds from the day go to The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. Phone Pat on 3804 6931 for further details. Robina THE Robina VIEW Club held its 8th birthday party on August with a “Mad Hatter’s Tea Party” theme. Over 100 VIEW Club members from around the Gold Coast gathered for fun and games. People embraced the theme with enthusiasm with Alice and The Mad Hatter welcoming everyone ‘down the rabbit hole’. Our friendly ladies regularly meet on the first Wednesday of each month at 9.30am for 10am start at the Robina Bowls Club, Ron Penhaligon Way, Robina. There are interesting guest speakers with morning tea, plus other social days and outings. New members and guests are welcome. For more information, phone Jennifer on 0408 005 458. Southport Day OUR club meets on the

PROBUS CLUBS Banora Point

New to Tweed area? Retired or semi-retired? Join us at Banora Point Probus. We meet on the fourth Monday of each month at the South Tweed Sports Club at 10am. We are a mixed club, and have interesting speakers, as well as an outing each month. Phone Annette or Ron on (07) 5523 4016 for more information. Burleigh Heads Ladies 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 Glenda (07) 5576 0303. Burleigh Waters MEMBERS enjoyed a fun day of Barefoot Bowls at Mermaid Beach Bowls Club, and at our meeting Padre Morgan Batt gave a great presentation and talk on his mountaineering experiences, including his climb on Mt Everest and other notable peaks. Retired or semi-retired

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men are invited to join us at club meetings from 10am, on the third Monday of each month at Burleigh Waters Community Centre, 131 Christine Avenue, 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 5520 6332 or John 5520 6661. Coolangatta Tweed Heads ARE you new to the area, recently retired or looking to meet people for Friendship, Fellowship and Fun? Probus Club is holding an Open Day from 9.45am Wednesday, October 3 at Tweed Heads Bowls Club, come along to hear an interesting guest speaker, meet our members and learn about the fun activities you can enjoy at our club. Phone Shirley on (07) 5599 7316. Helensvale PRESIDENT Judy has had the pleasant duty of welcoming new inductee’s over the past winter months. Congratulations to Barbara on reaching

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COMMUNITY

Annie parties for 105th Tania Phillips BURLEIGH Heads resident Annie Sargent enjoys a puzzle or two and a good book, and has also enjoyed a long life – celebrating her 105th birthday last month. She celebrated her birthday at her home at the Ozcare Oznaman Villa in August and was joined by four generations of her family to mark the occasion. “My husband and I have two daughters, Margaret lives near Gympie and Jill lives at Tweed Heads,” she said. “I have four grandchildren: Vicki, Kerry, Warren and Nicole, eight great-grandchildren: Kelly, Elise, Emma, Jake, Ethan, Kobe, Lucy and Noah and two great-greatgrandchildren: Sienna and Lilly. “Altogether we have five generations of females in the family living.” Annie has been living at

Ozcare for the past 12 years and is a favourite among the staff. “They have been very happy years,” she said. “The staff are very kind and helpful. “I spend most of my time reading and doing word puzzles, I hope my sight does not fail me. “Sadly my husband passed away in 1975, he would have liked to see all the grand and great-grand and great-greatgrandchildren. “I have had a good life. Seen a lot of changes.” Her parents emigrated from England 1913, making the long boat journey out while her mother was pregnant. They landed in May with Annie being born just a few months later in August. The family settled out in the Sutherland Shire – where Annie met her husband Clarence Sargent, better known as Tim, in 1930. A friend of the family,

GENERATIONS: Annie with her daughters, granddaughters and great-granddaughters. Tim was 15 years older and the two were friends for years before they married in 1938 but she said the age difference never mattered and they had many happy years together.

Annie said times were tough when her family first arrived in Australia. “At the time work was hard to find, but after a while my father managed to get work, delivering goods to shops,” she

said. “Eventually my parents decided to open food shops themselves, which did well. My sister arrived by then, born in 1918. “My parents would buy a shop and build the

Photo: Contributed

business up and then sell it. “We had different types of shops. In later years, after I finished school, my parents went into farming, so I helped them until I married in 1938.”

Crowned team offers social check-ins for isolated seniors CROWNED founder and managing director Jill Abraham met with the Federal Minister for Aged Care Ken Wyatt last month in Canberra to discuss current matters in the aged care sector. “Minister Wyatt is very approachable and very amicable,” Ms Abraham said. “He certainly expresses great concern regarding any elder abuse as a very specific agenda. “The topics we discussed included elder abuse, workforce matters, resource strains, rural and remote issues for service delivery, viability for organisations, the closure of CHSP services and the impacts.”

Other topics they covered were senior health and systemic pressure on allied health services, isolation and loneliness with an overview of the mental health impacts leading to further strains on the health system. Ms Abraham added that Mr Wyatt and his advisors, who also attended the meeting, confirmed there were solid investigations into some of the topics discussed and that he would advise the future actions to be taken. Ms Abraham said her business, Crowned, addressed isolation and loneliness experienced by seniors and carers.

AGED CARE: Federal Minister for Aged Care Ken Wyatt and Crowned’s Jill Abraham. Its core service offers regular phone calls and face-to-face contact for seniors, either in-home or as residents in a nursing home environment. These social

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engagements are requested on behalf of funded organisations and concerned family and friends who are time poor, live interstate or overseas.

As a focused social service, the benefits of working with Crowned include complete reports to all parties after calls or meeting which is proving to be a very cost-effective resource due to the low annual fee per client. In addition, Crowned offers a suite of corporate services as a support to incorporated organisations for the purpose of supporting client retention by helping with annual feedback reviews, matters of concerns, complaints resolution and the completion of annual care plan reviews. Currently Crowned is servicing the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane

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North and South, Ipswich and Toowoomba regions. It has also engaged in capacity services for families in China and Japan with relatives in Australia. “There are no limits to where Crowned will assist geographically. This includes individual transport needs,” Ms Abraham said. If you know a senior who you think would benefit from the services of Crowned, the team want to hear from you. To contact Crowned, go to www.facebook.com/ crownedservices, www.crowned.org.au or info@crowned.org.au, or phone 0402 638 881.

FEATURE

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Looking for a home care package provider? BRAND INSIGHTS QUEENSLAND’s Ozcare is one of several organisations that offer home care services to those approved for home care packages. With so many home care providers, and many more looking to enter the market, it can be difficult to distinguish between them all. Ozcare’s Chief Operating Officer Damian Foley recommends looking into the range of services that can be offered by the provider, and what administration costs will be. “Our point of difference is our care team – each one of our clients has access to a team of nurses, carers, allied health professionals and dementia specialists who work together to look at all aspects of the client’s care,” Mr Foley said. “We also make sure our

clients have consistent carers because we know this is really important to them. “It’s critical that they’re comfortable with the person that might be helping them with quite personal activities like taking a shower.” Ozcare has proudly served the Gold Coast community for the past 22 years with a wide range of services. From expert aged care, health and disability services through to community support services to help those in the region who are most vulnerable and facing a crisis. The not-for-profit organisation is dedicated to supporting Gold Coast seniors with a full suite of aged care services including home care, expert nursing and allied health services, day respite centres, dementia care and aged care facilities.

“Our complete service offering means that we can be there for our clients through all stages of aged care,” Mr Foley said. “Our experienced care teams work with clients, their carers and families to ensure they receive the best possible care, which is personalised to meet their individual needs. “We can provide anything from a small amount of assistance around the house, or a social day out in one of our centres, to permanent care in one of our aged care facilities. “Our focus is on keeping people well and agile, and helping them to age in the comfort of their own homes. “When they can no longer stay at home, we can help bring meaning and purpose to their lives in one of our aged care facilities, which we strive to make feel like home.”

CORE SERVICE: Ozcare’s point of difference is its care team.

Photo: Contributed

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

WELLBEING

My Health Record: a mobile medical diary Wellbeing

BRAND INSIGHTS IF YOU had to describe Bill Hardy’s passions, they would be fitness, health and travel. After completing a Diploma of Fitness five years ago, the 70-year-old Gold Coaster now runs over 50s fitness classes. “I have always been interested in health, which is why I started training mature aged men and women in strength and conditioning. It’s so important that as people get older, they keep active and look after their health.” Bill’s passion for health extends to My Health Record, where he is one of six million Australians who keep a summary of their health information securely online. “I think My Health Record is a great step forward in healthcare,” he said. “I’m going to India on my next holiday so I will need cholera, diphtheria and typhoid injections. “This information will go on My Health Record, so I know when my immunisations are due again as they can be very hard to remember.” Bill is also having ongoing checks after he was diagnosed for prostate cancer. “I know I can go to a doctor or hospital at any time, located anywhere, and they will know my health problems and what medications I am taking,” he said. “This makes the whole process much easier and is particularly beneficial when you are travelling. I can even view My Health

ESSENTIAL: Fitness expert Bill Hardy believes My Health Record is the way of the future. Record when I am overseas.” Some key things to remember about My Health Record: ■ Your important healthcare information is available in one place and accessible by your doctors, specialists or hospitals. ■ When moving interstate or travelling,

your information can be viewed securely online. ■ In emergency situations, treating doctors can view information such as current medications and Advance Care Plans to provide appropriate treatment quickly. ■ You don’t need to remember the dates of tests, medicine names or

dosages. ■ Because healthcare providers have better access to clinical information, they have a more detailed picture to make decisions, diagnose and provide treatment. ■ You can control what information goes into your My Health Record and restrict who is allowed to access it.

Photos: Contributed / Kevin Farmer

■ For those that require assistance accessing your My Health Record, you can nominate someone to act on your behalf or ask healthcare providers involved in your care to add information to your record. ■ My Health Record has multi-layered security processes and strong safeguards in place to

protect your information. By the end of 2018, a My Health Record will be created for every Australian, unless they choose not to have one. If you don’t want a My Health Record, you can opt out by November 15. For more information go to myhealthrecord.gov.au or phone 1800 723 471.

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Don’t ignore the cough Top tips to relieve the barking Tracey Johnstone GAINING an understanding of why coughs happen and how you can manage them, can help you live a healthier, happier life. Your cough is a reflex mechanism trying to clear the lungs of an irritant through a forced burst of air. It’s not normal, says medical doctor and professor of health science at RMIT, Professor Marc Cohen. “If you are healthy, you shouldn’t be coughing,” Prof Cohen said. “If you have a cough as part of your everyday life, there’s something going on; that’s your body saying there is something going on with your body’s respiratory system.” A cough can be a wet or dry cough depending on the irritant. The irritant could be a

HEALTHY LIFE: Coughing is never fun, so here are some tips natural remedies to relieve a simple cough. build-up of mucus or “infective agents”, or it could be simply smoke or dust. Asthma is another cause of coughing. “Some blood pressure medications can also cause a cough,” Prof Cohen said. “A chesty cough is often caused by a cold or a mild illness, or they can indicate a more severe infection like an influenza or an infection.

“The quality and type of mucus can give you an indication as well as the symptoms. “Any cough that is associated with a fever or shivers or shakes, that is a very serious sign. “It will usually indicate pneumonia and needs to be attended to very quickly. “Whereas if you are coughing up a bit of mucus, that can be a chronic thing for smokers.

“With smokers, normally there is these little hairs that line your airways, called cilia. “Those hairs move mucus up and swallow it automatically. “But if you smoke, those cilia hairs, which are self-cleaning, get destroyed. “So, your airways no longer self-clean, so you have to clean them out physically by coughing.” If you can have a dry

Photo: Liderina

cough, it’s less likely that it will be associated with a serious infection. But, if there are associated symptoms or it has been going on for several weeks or longer, seek medical advice. Most coughs may only last a few weeks and aren’t too serious. There are some natural remedies to give you relief which can be useful: ■ Steam inhalation with a drop of eucalyptus oil –

this helps open your airways and relieve mucus. ■ Ivy leaf extract – the most common is sold as Prospan and comes in liquid, lozenge or droplet. ■ Manuka honey – avoid putting it on boiling water as it could deactivate some of the living enzymes in the honey. It is better to use as medicinal honey. ■ Salt – a teaspoon mixed with a glass of warm water and gargle. ■ Zinc tablets which help with managing a cold. ■ Thyme, sage, marshmallow extract or liquorice root tea – gargle or drink. If making a tea out of the woody part of a plant, then you need to boil it to get the medicinal compounds into the water. No matter what type of cough you have, cover your mouth to protect others around you. “And, be aware of what else is going on in your body at the same time, like aches and pains or a rash,” Prof Cohen said. “Just note them as they might say something more serious is going on.”

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WELLBEING

Michelle Bridges’ seniors program

REACH OUT: Maureen Partridge takes part in Exercise for Seniors.

HELPING older Australians to move, mobilise and maintain fitness is at the heart of a new program developed by celebrity personal trainer Michelle Bridges and the Home Instead Senior Care group which specialises in the provision of in-home care for older Australians. Exercise for Seniors: A guide to help seniors move, mobilise and maintain fitness was created as a response to research revealing 44.7 per cent of adults aged 65 years and over are not sufficiently active. It’s no secret that regular exercise is essential for maintaining mobility, bone density, muscle mass and balance, but it also offers many more health benefits including lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and high blood pressure, management of chronic conditions such as arthritis and diabetes, higher levels of functional health and well-being and

apart and elbows just below shoulder height. Bend your elbows and lower your chest towards the wall, then push through your hands, squeeze with your chest and return to your start position.” ■ Single leg balance “Balance deteriorates as we age, so practising this exercise helps guard against common balance issues such as falling. Holding the chair or using the wall, put your weight on your outside leg and lift your inside leg so you are just on its tippy toes. Look straight ahead, press into your outside foot and squeeze your bottom as you do this. Count to three, then put your foot down flat, turn around to do the same thing on the other side.” ■ Side steps with arms reaching overhead “This powerhouse movement targets strength, mobility, balance and co-ordination. Make sure you have enough clear space to take three

spaces side to side. Step out to the side as you raise your arms into the air over your head then step your feet together as you bring your arms back down. Take two more steps like this, then step back three steps so you are back at your starting position.”

“As we age, it becomes all too easy to let our exercise go,” Michelle said. “We lose the physical prowess we had when we were younger so it becomes more challenging to move the way we used to – so many people end up moving less and less. I am excited to collaborate with Home Instead Senior Care and the five minute exercise routine we’ve developed can help you maintain your mobility, bone density, muscle mass and balance.” Go to, homeinstead.com. au/resources/exercise forseniors.

Small actions for big changes

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HELPING OUT: Become a Dementia Friend through the Dementia Australia awareness campaign.

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FRIENDS can make a big difference to the quality of another person’s life, particularly when they have been diagnosed with dementia. This year’s Dementia Australia awareness campaign is inviting everyone in the community to become a Dementia Friend. “Through the Dementia Friends program, we aim to transform the way we, as a community, think, act and talk about dementia,” Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe said. Community clubs and organisations are also

being encouraged to put their hands up as a Dementia Friend. “With our Dementia Friends program we are providing an opportunity for everyone to empower themselves with more knowledge and increased understanding about dementia so they can learn how some small actions can make a big difference in the day-to-day life of someone living with dementia,” Ms McCabe added. Interested people should go online to dementiafriendly.org to

find the Dementia Friends module which provides explanations about dementia, and features interviews of people living with dementia sharing how dementia has impacted their lives and what others can do to support them in day-to-day situations. “Through the Dementia Friends program, we want to transform the way we, as a community, think, act and talk about dementia,” Ms McCabe said. For more, go to the website dementia.org.au.

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improved cognitive function. The Exercise for Seniors guide provides seniors with straightforward exercises that mirror their everyday actions and can be completed in just five minutes. The top four are revealed below. ■ Sit to stand “Repetition of this basic movement is great for your whole body strength as it uses your legs and core and is beneficial for your heart and lungs. Start by sitting in the chair feet flat on the floor, looking straight ahead. Push down through your feet, squeeze your bottom and stand up.” ■ Push-ups against wall “Adjusting this popular exercise by doing it on the wall makes upper body strength training achievable for older people and also helps keep the range of movement through fingers too. Stand facing a wall, and put your hands on the wall about shoulder width

WELLBEING

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Cash boost to tackle abuse

AGAINST ABUSE: The Federal Government has boosted the fight against elder abuse after announcing a $2 million package for the Older Persons Advocacy Network. Photo: chameleonseye

THE fight against elder abuse has been given a major boost with the Federal Government announcing a $2 million package for the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN). Minister for Aged Care Ken Wyatt said the funding would be a key weapon in the face of growing concern that elder abuse is becoming rife throughout the community. “Preventing elder abuse is everybody’s business because all older Australians have a fundamental right to expect safe, dignified treatment,” Mr Wyatt said. “Estimates of elder abuse range from 2 to 12 per cent. Whether concerns are raised by older individuals, family members, aged care residents, staff, community visitors or government officials, they must be heard and they must be acted on. “It’s important that we shine a light on any physical, emotional or financial abuse of our elders.” And the Minister said OPAN – which was

established last year to deliver key services throughout the country – was already becoming a powerful ally for victims of elder abuse. “New figures show that OPAN had a combined 1330 information contacts and cases of people at risk of or experiencing elder abuse in its first year of operation and conducted 285 sessions to educate older Australians and service providers on elder abuse protection,” Mr Wyatt said. “The OPAN services report that the more they make their services known, the more people contact them, who often feel they have nowhere to turn to for help. “This new funding builds on the $1 million provided to OPAN to help combat elder abuse over the past year. “OPAN is using the funding to trial a national elder abuse advocacy and prevention model of information, advocacy and education services, based on successful West Australian and South Australian elder abuse prevention programs.”

Key projects include: ■ Developing national elder abuse advocacy response protocols ■ Creating a national decision making system to support older people, especially those living with dementia ■ Implementing a national elder abuse minimum dataset ■ Mapping elder abuse referral and support pathways in each state and territory ■ Researching special needs of rural and remote populations Mr Wyatt said it was imperative any victims or people looking for information sought help as quickly as possible. “Separately, the Council of Attorneys-General, comprising the Commonwealth and all state and territory Attorneys-General, has committed to develop a National Plan to address elder abuse issues, including a study to examine the prevalence of elder abuse across Australia.” To find out more about the services on offer go to the OPAN website or phone 1800 700 600.

Spring into a broader social life this month the next step. Relationships Australia elder abuse prevention and support service has five case managers across Queensland. Relationships Australia support service case manager Benjamin O’Rourke said social connection is extremely important for anyone, particularly those that are experiencing elder abuse. A person who is

isolated and who lacks connection from neighbours, family or community, is one many of factors that may heighten the risk of elder abuse. Some good tips for seniors to socially connect are: ■ Visit your library where there are often free information sessions are conducted. ■ Talk to the local council which can link you to

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1300 135 500 or visit seniorsenquiryline. com.au. ■ 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732. ■ Elder Abuse Prevention Units in your state – NSW 1800 628 221, QLD 1300 651 192, VIC 1300 368 821, ACT (02) 6205 3535, SA 1800 372 310, WA (08) 9479 7566, Tasmania 1800 441 169. ■ Lifeline on 131 144.

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package, to talk to your service provider. “Spring might be a good time to say I want to have a planning meeting and talk about my support needs,” Ben adds. If you have immediate elder abuse concerns, you should phone one of the following services: ■ Relationships Australia on 1300 063 232 or visit relationships.org.au. ■ Seniors Enquiry Line

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senior support groups. ■ Contact your community centre. ■ Talk to your local church leader about support groups. ■ Have a conversation with your family members or close friend. “This could be a good time for you to check in with your GP as well,” Ben recommends. He also suggests if you have a Home Care

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AS THE days warm up and the sun stays shining longer, spring is a good time for seniors to work on renewing their social and support connections. While any time is a good time to stop and reflect on the health of relationships that impact on you, spring may be the catalyst that you need to start that process. Finding the right person or place to connect with is

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

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Combine the exotic wildlife and unique culture of Borneo with the romance of tall ship cruising. Finish your adventure with a relaxing three-night stay at Gaya Island located just off the coast of Sabah. Itinerary Singapore . Kuching (overnight) . Bintulu (Tanjung Kidurong) . Miri . Bandar Seri Begawan . Pulau Tiga . Kota Kinabalu . Gaya Island Includes Return economy ﬂightsǂ . 10-night cruise onboard tall ship Star Clipper . All meals, water sports, tipping & port charges onboard . 3 nights accommodation in Borneo with breakfast daily & transfers from the ship to hotel to airport Book by 30 September 2018 and save up to $1,960*pp and receive €100^pp onboard credit! Valid for travel 18 May & 05 October 2019◊

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SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Glorious garden tours Grand tours across Europe for those with green fingers THE ultimate green thumb’s overseas holiday would have to be travelling by ship, train and coach through European countries visiting iconic and private gardens, and famous garden shows. The grandest tour has to be APT’s Botanica World Discoveries, Grand European. The 43-day tour takes in eight countries. Departing on April 25, 2019, the tour starts in Amsterdam in time to see the glorious spring bulbs. You then sail the Rhine and Moselle rivers to Basel and onto Zurich accompanied by the London Festival Opera. From Zurich you fly to Budapest where the group boards the luxurious Danube Express train over the European Alps viewing Alpine wildflowers before arriving into Venice. Then travel from Venice to Bordeaux visiting iconic gardens and picturesque landscapes on a leisurely tour where you can enjoy unique art inclusions and watercolour tuition from our art guide. Finally, enjoy a relaxing eight day river cruise through Bordeaux visiting gardens, chateaux, art and vineyards of the region. The tour includes free business class fares with Lufthansa, with some conditions applying, if booked before October 15, 2018. The price is $42,990 per person for twin share and $55,990 for solo travellers. Other Botanica 2019 gardening tours are: ❚ Hampton Court Flower Show and Gardens of Sussex Tour, UK – this show is set on the grounds of Hampton Court Palace and is held

during the summer months. Visit this show on the eight day tour which departs on June 17. Tour price is from $5995 per person, twin share. ❚ BBC Gardeners World Live, Birmingham, UK – it’s the ‘garden party of the year’. See British and world leading gardens and garden designers. Visit this show on Botanica’s 12-day Historic Houses and Gardens of the United Kingdom Tour which departs on June 15. Tour price is $8995 per person, twin share. ❚ Dublin in Bloom Festival, Dublin, Ireland – showcasing the best of Ireland’s gardens plants, design, construction, horticulture and gardening as a hobby. You can combine a visit to this event with Chelsea Flower Show. Visit this show on Botanica’s 10-day tour which departs on May 21. Tour price is from $9995 per person, twin share. ❚ Chaumont Garden Festival, Loire Valley, France – set in magnificent castle grounds, see superb displays created by teams of artists, landscape architects and designers. Visit this show on Botanica’s 13-day Loire Valley, Dordogne and Bordeaux Chateaux gardens tour which departs on May 25. Tour price is from $13,995 per person, twin share. ❚ Bohinj Wildflower Festival, Bohinj, Croatia – travel into the hills of Slovenia to see the majestic wildflowers of the region at the Bohinj Wildflower Festival.

BOTANICA BEAUTY: Keukenhof Garden, Amsterdam.

Libourne River and bridge.

Marqueyssac Garden, France.

Dublin Flower Show.

Keukenhof Garden and Lake, Amsterdam.

Chelsea Flower Show.

Visit this show on Botanica’s 14-day Spring Wildflowers of the Italian Lakes, Slovenia and Croatian Islands Cruise which departs May 25. Tour price is from $11,995 per person, twin share. ❚ Art & Gardens in France – hosted by Brian Healey, you will travel from

where you will be accompanied by Brian and visit special art inclusions, including a tour of the famous Beaux Arts Gallery in Bordeaux, a visit to Le-Temple-sur-Lot garden where Monet painted his Les Nymphaea’s series, enjoy lectures aboard as well as opportunities for

Cannes to Bordeaux where you can participate in art classes along the way. All materials will be provided as well as tuition from Brian which is suitable for beginners and experienced water colour artists. Continue onto the Bordeaux river cruise

painting and tuition. The 14-day tour departs on May 24. Tour price is from $13,595 per person, twin share, and $16,995 for solo travellers. For more information, go to botanica.travel, phone 1300 305 202 or talk to your local travel agent.

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SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

Floriade adopts pop theme RETRO inspired flowerbeds will part of the annual colourful spring Floriade festival to be held in Canberra from September 15 to October 14. Marilyn Monroe and Michael Jackson will star alongside the likes of Grug and Where’s Wally, the Rubik’s Cube and even Ken Done, as visitors go on a trip down memory lane through the pop culture. Floriade each year focuses on exciting, diverse and innovative programs. This year will be no different with a line-up that is nothing short of blooming wonderful. Visitors will be treated to an exciting array of flowerbeds showcasing some of the 20th Century’s most iconic figures in music, film, literature and social media. Food, glorious food to tantalise the tastebuds with produce from Canberra and the surrounding region will have visitors coming back for more than one visit. During school holidays, there will be lots of

SPRING TRAVEL: Canberra’s Floriade will burst to life this month. activities for the grandkids. Imagine enjoying your visit on a Sunday afternoon, picnicking at Jazz in the Park with special guests including the uber-talented Emma Pask.

For the aspiring or avid green thumbs there are many workshops at The Greenhouse interactive venue. The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. NightFest, Floriade’s ticketed after-dark

Thursday and Friday nights see musicians hit the stage as the music flows through the flowerbeds including Caiti Baker, Bowie Unzipped featuring Jeff Duff and Kate Miller-Heidke. Saturday night will be time to don the dance shoes for Party NightFest. The park switches to party mode with Cell Block 69. Finishing off this weekend will be a night of laughs as MA15+ Comedy NightFest returns with Arj Barker, Akmal Saleh, The Stevenson Experience, Chris Ryan and Matt Okine. Floriade wraps up on October 14 with Dogs’ Day Out, featuring a superhero dress up pop culture theme. All pups, big and small, are invited to soak up the sunshine and explore Floriade with special pup-friendly activities and entertainment throughout the day. Dress up with your best friend to go in the draw to win the Best Dressed Award.

Photo: Floriade Australia

experience, returns for five nights from September 26 until September 30. Commonwealth Park will come to life after dark with illuminated flowerbeds, a line-up of local and drink food stalls,

nightly entertainment and dazzling lighting installations making NightFest an absolute must in 2018. On the Wednesday night, Stage 88 transforms into an open-air cinema, while

For more, go to floriadeaustralia.com.

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SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

‘‘

Your journey spans eight regions ranging from lush forests to craggy deserts.

A MOUNTAIN HIGH: Make hiking the Kilimanjaro in Tanzania one of the holidays on your to do list, and be in awe of nature’s beauty.

Photo: SVaP

Hike your way through Some places can only be dreams while others can become a real experience with the help of these super destination tips.

THIS month we profile destinations and experiences 45 to 41 as we count down the 2018 list of the World’s Best Journeys which we hope will inspire you to live life to the full. The top 50 bucket list has been selected by Flight Network and over 500 top travel journalists, agencies, bloggers and editors. Tighten the seat belt and let’s get you moving by putting some spring back into your forward travel plans.

HIKE THE KILIMANJARO, TANZANIA

THE seven-day Machame route up majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa at 20,000 feet, begins at the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Gate, where you’ll walk through rainforest up a winding trail. The rainforest eventually dissolves into a small valley where you traverse a rocky ridge before reaching the Shira Plateau, a land of deep

valleys and weather worn lava flows. Pass the Lava Tower, nicknamed “Shark’s Tooth” because of its angular shape, before resting at Barranco Camp. Your next stop to help acclimatise is at Karanga Camp. Continue on to Barafu Camp where you’ll prepare your mind, body and soul for the Kilimanjaro summit, which commences between midnight and 2am. This epic trek will take you between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, before you take a rest at Stella Point and get rewarded by a magnificent sunrise. After reaching the highest point at Uhuru Peak, you descend to Mweka Hut and finish the following day in Moshi. Getting there: the trip begins and ends at the Kilimanjaro International Airport in Tanzania which serves Arusha and Moshi. As you must be part of a guided tour for this adventure, your tour company will help advice you about travel arrangements from the airport.

HIKE THE JORDAN TRAIL, JORDAN

GAIN an education in Jordanian terrain, archaeology and religious relevance by embarking on this 650km hike that takes about 40 days. Your journey spans eight regions, ranging from lush forests to craggy deserts. Lace up your hiking shoes in Umm Qais then head south toward your final destination of Aqaba. Along the way you’ll encounter 52 villages allowing you to peel back the layers of this culture by tasting local cuisine, interacting with villagers and even spending the night in homestays. Highlights of the trail include jagged cliffs overlooking the Jordan Rift Valley, the rose-red city of Petra, and the towering sandstone mountains of Wadi Rum. Be sure to pack your bathing suit as you’ll be passing the Red Sea, whose crystal clear waters take on an orange-red hue when seasonal algae blooms. This warm sea is home to the world’s fastest fish,

the solitary sailfish, and has a thriving biodiversity, thanks in large part to its coral reef ecosystem. Significant historical sites, such as the ruins of the ancient church of Mar Elias and the Islamic castle of Ajloun will also be encountered on the route. Getting there: You will to fly into Jodan’s main airport, Queen Alia International Airport. From that airport a taxi is the most direct mode of transport to Umm Qais, which is about 2.5 hours away. The trailhead is located at the basalt ruins of the Decapolis of Um Qais. Be sure to plan your hike ahead of time, or hire one of the many local guide companies who can help you make the most of this trail, or check out the volunteer run Jordan Trail Association which offers an annual through-hike.

HIKE THE FRANCIGENA WAY, EUROPE SPANNING centuries of history and endless kilometres of

mountainscapes, the Francigena Way hike covers over 2000km from Canterbury to Rome and takes anywhere from 100-200 days, depending on how quickly you travel. This pilgrimage will carry you through England, France, Switzerland and Italy, with famous stop points such as Dover Castle, Notre Dame, Piazza del Campo Siena and Cathedral of Saints Peter and Francis. You journey through soft grass, stone stairways carved into mountain sides and thriving vineyards interspersed with time in grand cities such as Reims (France), Lausanne (Switzerland) and Rome (Italy). You can pause at any time to savour a special village or flower-covered field. At the end you can celebrate completing this hike-of-a-lifetime by tossing a coin into Rome’s Trevi Fountain and enjoying a Pizza Bianca from one of the city’s many bakeries. Getting there: You need to get to Canterbury by bus or train once arriving

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

Hike the Jordan Trail, Jordan and experience bedouin camels as they rest near the treasury Al Khazneh carved into the rock at Petra, Jordan.

Photo: DeSid

The Ancient Franceta Gate in the medieval town of Sutri.

Photo: davidf

Photo: Crisfotolux

Bushwalk in the spectacular Australian Blue Mountains.

this healthy bucket list in London. The Francigena Way starts beside the south porch of Canterbury Cathedral, at the kilometre zero stone. From the Cathedral, turn left onto Burgate and walk along Church Street and Longport, beside St Augustine’s Abbey. After passing North Holmes Road and St Martin’s Church, turn right onto Pilgrim’s Way and begin to follow the signs for the North Downs Way. Now, keep putting one foot in front of the other, allowing a trusty guidebook to support you the rest of the way.

BUSHWALK THE BLUE MOUNTAINS, AUSTRALIA A CAPTIVATING 3861 square miles of towering eucalyptus trees, sandstone cliffs and native bushland are waiting to be explored. Because of its intricate beauty, the best way to journey through this land is on foot. The seven day hike starts in Mount Victoria where you can spend the day in a historical pub or an art gallery.

Relax on board the Shinkansen Bullet Train, Japan. A few highlights of the trek include the secret grotto and rhododendron gardens at Mount Piddington, the cascading Bridal Veil Falls and Pulpit Rock lookout at Popes Glen, and the curious rock formation of Ruined Castle in the Jamison Valley. Aboriginal legend is mixed into your trip when you lay eyes on Three Sisters, a massive trilogy of rocky peaks that are said to have been three

sisters that were turned to stone. To reach the Three Sisters you’ll need to ascend Giant Stairway. Once your well-worked legs have descended the stairs you get to spend the night in the quaint village of Leura. Your last walk in the Blue Mountains will be National Pass walk, which leads into a mystical rainforest gorge. Getting there: The closest major airport to

Photo: blanscape

Mount Victoria is Sydney. From there you can reach Mount Victoria by taking a 2.5 hour train ride from Sydney’s Central Station, or rent a car and follow the M4 highway.

RELAX ON BOARD THE SHINKANSEN BULLET TRAIN, JAPAN

Reaching a maximum speed of 320km/h, the lightning-fast Shinkansen Bullet Train offers travelers a ride of a

lifetime. With the ability to tilt on turns, the needle-nosed Shinkansen is a thrilling way to travel. Known for its aerodynamic design and sleek rails providing ultra-smooth rides, the bullet train’s innovative, wing-shaped form helps to reduce wind resistance at high speeds. Boarding the train in Tokyo, after exploring everything from the modern glittering skyscrapers to its historic

temples, adventurers can take the Shinkansen to the popular city of Kyoto for a picturesque journey along towering mountains and flower-drenched valleys. Departing from the train, visitors can explore Kyoto’s timeless, island culture and a region draped in Japanese tradition. Peruse Kyoto’s Buddhist temples, imperial palaces and Shinto shrines before hopping on the Shinkansen and rambling on to your next destination. Getting there: With countless airlines serving Asia it’s easy to get to Tokyo. Once at Narita Airport the most cost effective way to get the city, which is 66km away, is to go by limousine bus which departs four times an hour and the fastest way is by boarding the Narita Express. Make your way to the Shinkansen by taking the Keikyu Rail Line to Shinagawa when you’re ready for your trip on the Bullet Train.

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

10 reasons to add Provence to your hit list Ann Rickard LIKE Italy’s Tuscany region, Provence in the South of France has that evocative sound to it. Stony villages, fields of vines, delicious food, copious wine and a feeling of joie-de-vivre in the air. It’s one of those destinations every traveller dreams about. Ann Rickard gives you 10 reasons why you should go as soon as possible. 1. Weather. With more than 300 days of sunshine every year, Provence is France’s sunshine capital. The summer months of June, July and August give you guaranteed sunshine. 2. Hilltop towns. Menerbes and Bonnieux became famous when Peter Mayle wrote so charmingly about them in A Year in Provence. While they are delightful with their stone houses and narrow lanes, there are no museums or galleries and only a sprinkling of cafes. Like most hilltop towns, they are fun to explore and admire but don’t expect to find a lot to do. 3. Les Baux de Provence. In the Alpilles, this village provides plenty of interest. It is a living museum, crowned by castle ruins dating back to the 10th century. Walk over the ruins, climb crumbling towers, go down to the dungeons, be awed by the reproductions of giant medieval weapons, then wander the maze of lanes in the village with their

small shops and cafes, and stop in a leafy square for lunch. 4. Avignon. For 70 years during the 14th century, this town was the hub of the Roman Catholic world when the popes moved there from Rome and built the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes). The walled old town bustles with more shops and cafes than you could get to. Take a ride on the Petit Train, which rumbles through the town while a commentary gives you all you need to know about Avignon’s rich history. 5. I’isle sur la Sorgue. The name means “Island on the Sorgue River” and it looks so, with canals and water everywhere. Its imposing moss-covered water wheels have been toiling since the 1200s when they were used to grind flour. It is now famous for its antique and brocante stores. Best to visit on a Sunday – market day – when the town erupts with a festive atmosphere as hundreds of stalls sell everything from French linen to giant wheels of cheese. 6. Markets. Every village, town and city puts on markets, where lanes, squares and streets become clogged with stalls and people. Even if you don’t buy a thing (you will), just wandering among the crowds with the sights and sounds of food and laughter gives a true sense of Provence. The markets are also a social occasion, to meet friends for coffee or wine, but be warned, in the bigger towns the crowds

are so dense it is shoulder-to-shoulder and many locals love to take their dogs, adding to the general crush. 7. Food. Fresh fruit and vegetables, olive oil, garlic, quality meat and sublime seafood, Provence is known all over the world for its superior cuisine. In summer, cherry, peach and apricot orchards burst with fruit so sweet you will find it hard to believe. Traditional dishes include daube (beef stew) and ratatouille (we know that one). Look for the giant slabs of nougat at the markets and don’t go past the rich tapenades, probably made that morning. Green and black olive tapenade are traditional but try the anchovy tapenade for a bang-in-the-mouth hit. 8. Pont du Gard. This mighty aqueduct built by the Romans 2000 years ago to transport water from the town of Uzes to Nimes is reason alone to visit Provence. One of France’s most popular attractions, the aqueduct crosses the Gardon River. One look and your jaw drops. Best way to see it is to kayak from the nearby town of Collias, picnic on the banks with views to the awesome structure, then kayak under it. Better still, float on your back beneath it. 9. Plane trees, poppies, lavender, sunflowers. Nothing says France more than the rows of plane trees flanking the roads. They create an avenue of leafy shade in summer and make your heart sing. In April and May wild red

THEATRE TOURS

SUPERIOR CUISINE: Enjoy cheese, seafood and meat at the markets in Provence.

Lavender everywhere in Provence.

Canals in L’isle sur la Sorgue. poppies spring from the ground everywhere and then come August the sunflowers tilt their yellow heads to the sun to create fields of blazing yellow to the horizon. Lavender begins to bloom in June and by July there are mauve carpets stretching all over the region. But no matter what month you visit Provence, the smell of lavender is in

Castle ruins of Le Baux de Provence.

the air, with shops, boutiques and markets selling lavender products, from essential oils to little lavender bags to soaps and sprays. 10. Carriers de Lumieres. Below the village of Les Baux is perhaps the most stunning yet low-profile highlight of the region. In a vast, disused bauxite quarry, unique visual shows are projected on to the

immense walls to the accompaniment of stirring music. It is usually the works of the world’s most famous artists on display – Van Gogh, Cezanne, Da Vinci in the past, this year it is Picasso. The 45-minute show is continuous, so any time you arrive is a good time. It is a spectacular experience that stays with you long after your visit.

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SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

THE GHAN EXPERIENCE 6 DAYS, 13th April 2019

$3490*

Experience the 3 Day GHAN Adelaide to Darwin. Regarded as one of the world’s greatest rail journeys, The Ghan delivers so much more than an extended train ride. It promises access to parts of Australia no other holiday can come close to - the perfect balance of comfort and adventure culminating in a once in a life time experience.

*PP Twin Share, Single, $200 *Seniors Group Discount Rate

TOTAL TASMANIA 11 DAYS, 20th March & 26th Oct 2019

This amazing tour covers all the highlights of Tasmania including Hobart, Port Arthur, Queenstown, Dove Lake, Cradle Mountain, Gordon River, Stanley, Davenport, Launceston, Tamar Valley, St Helens, Bicheno, Frycinet National Park, Richmond, plus much more !!!!

$3490 P/P-TS* Single Supp + $650 *Plus Airfares

$699*

*PP Twin Share, Single $225

Yamba & Byron Bay Short Break - 4 Days, Departs 3rd / 10th March 2019

Travel to Cabarita Beach through to Bangalow before arriving at Yamba. Then visiting the seaside village of Iluka and then Cruising the Clarence River. Traveling then down to picturesque village of Brooms Head, Maclean then onto Angourie. Then through Evans Head,Woodburn and ﬁnish at Bryon Bay before heading back to Brisbane

Uluru - Field of Light Olgas & Alice Springs $3790* 7 Days - 29 May & 14 Aug 2019 *PP Twin Share, Single $550 Visiting ULURU Cultural Including Flights ex BNE Centre, Ranger-Guided Mala Walk. Heading to Kata Tjuta National Park & The Olgas Field Of Light Experience is spectacular. Touring Alice Springs. Exploring MacDonnell Ranges & Simpsons Gap

WW2 Midget Subs & Sydney 5 Days - Departs 18th March

$1790*

*PP Twin Share, Single add $380

$1490*

*PP Twin Share, Single add $420 *Plus Applicable Discount Rail Fare

Garden Island RAN Center Japanese Mini Sub Display Sydney Harbour Cruise & Sub Attack Locations, Hyde Park Luna Park High Tea Lunch Star Casino Buffet Dinner 1 Way Flights to SYD included

$3495 P/P-TS*

Single Supp + $600 *Plus Airfares

Discover Cooktown 8 Days - Departure Dates 2019: 13th April, 11th June, 15th July, 9th & 21st Sep

Depart Brisbane, Cairns, Mossman Gorge, Daintree River Cruise, Port Douglas, Discover Cooktown, Famous Lions Den Hotel, Endeavour River Cruise, Jacques Coffee Plantation

$4990

*PP Twin Share, Single add $800 *Plus Airfares

Australian Open Tennis

4 Days - Departs 15th Jan 19

$1490*

*PP TS, Single add $320 *Plus Airfares

Artvo Gallery, Star Observation Wheel, Reserved Daytime Seating Margaret Court Arena & Top Seeded Players, Pufﬁng Billy Steam Train & Emerald Village, Colonial Tramcar Dinner, Queen Vic Markets

$1390 *PP TS, Single add $255

Majestic River Murray, 10 Days, 23rd Apr 2019 A Wonderful 10 day Tour of the Murray River by Coach Albury to Adelaide including 5 Paddle Steamers & Cruises Yarrawonga, Echuca, Euston Swan Hill, Mildura, Renmark Loxton, Goolwa, Victor Harbour The Kimberly & Beyond 11 Days, 18th July 2019 Darwin Discovery Tour Dinner Cruise Katherine Gorge Cruise, Lake Argyle, Zebra Mine Tour, Bungle Bungles Hidden Valley, Ord River Cruise & Geikie Gorge Cruise, Halls Creek, Chamberlain Gorge, Fitzroy Crossing, Broome Discovery Tours Cable Beach Eccentric Lightining Ridge 5 days - 6 May & 16 Sept 2019 Fossick for your own treasure on lands that 100 million years ago were inhabited by dinosaurs and ancient forests, a stone’s throw from the discovery one of the world’s most large and valuable uncut black opals. This is, Lightning Ridge.

Cowboys, Caves & Castles 8 days 1st June, 8th July & 12 Aug 2019

$1390*

*PP Twin Share, Single add $320 *Plus Applicable Discount Rail Fare

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$2490 P/P-TS* Single Supp + $300

$1540 P/P-TS* Single Supp + $400 *Plus Discount Rail

$1490 P/P-TS* Single Supp + $390

This unique tour visits lots of amazing places and attractions. Cowboys at Texas Longhorn Ranch, Historical Charters Towers, Caves at the incredible Undara Lava Tubes and Castle Ruins of Paronella Park.

Hunter Valley Rose Spectacular & Xmas Lights, 8 Days, 1st November. Enjoy the Hunter Valley Rose Spectacular, the beautiful Jacaranda Festival & the famous HVG Christmas Lights.

Cairns Xmas Capers, 8 Days, 21st December. Cairns, Kuranda, Port Douglas, Mossman Gorge, Daintree River Cruise, Sky Rail, Reef Casino Xmas Lunch, Dundess Restaurant, Harbour Cruise

A Golden Coast Xmas, 5 Days, 23rd December. Gold Coast, Broadwater Cruise, Mermaid Beach, Tweed River Cruise, Xmas Day Lunch at The Star Casino, Coolangatta, Byron Bay, Mt Tambourine, Lunch at St Bernards with magical views over the Gold Coast.

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SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Japan spring blossoms

NOWHERE on the planet do the modern and the ancient co-exist more harmoniously than in Japan. Kimono-clad ladies chatter on futuristic phones while blurring by on the fastest trains in the world; thousandyear-old Zen temples are dwarfed by seas of skyscrapers; and neon signs are reflected in flooded rice paddies. This fascinating country provides a sensory cultural overload, delivered in the most gracious and polite manner. The arrival of cherry blossoms, locally known as Sakura, are an important part of Japanese culture. Symbolising new beginnings and hope, their fleeting beauty is also a key characteristic representing human life, transience and nobleness. Adding to their magic and mystique, the Sakura are usually only in full bloom for a short time in spring. According to text from the 8th century, the tradition of Hanami, or flower viewing parties, have been held since at least the 3rd century, and is still an event of

BLOSSOMING ADVENTURE: Experiencing a sea of trees showing off bright pink flowers is well worth adding to the list. important cultural significance for Japanese people today. It is common to see people having picnics under the cherry blossom

trees during the day or admiring the blossoms by lantern light at night, which is a magical sight. If Japan is on your bucket list, spring is a

great time of year to visit. HANDY HINT: Next year Go See Touring will host an 11-day escorted tour to Japan for the Cherry Blossoms, departing

Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne March 31, 2019. The tour price is $7650 per person share twin, including return airfares.

Photo: Contributed

For full tour details, go to goseetouring.com or contact one of their friendly staff on info@ goseetouring.com or phone 1300 551 997.

Spring into a flowerful adventure in Singapore A FLOWER Dome, Supertrees, Dragonfly Lake and Cloud Forests. No, it’s not the set of Ridley Scott’s next film, but rather Singapore’s freshly minted Gardens by the Bay. Spanning 101 hectares, the gardens are a showcase for horticultural artistry. Living plants aside, all 700,000 of them, the waterfront park features

man-made trees stretching 50m into the sky with steel trunks and illuminated wire rods for branches providing nightly sound and light shows with plenty of drama. Today, Singapore is widely acclaimed as a global capital for culinary innovation, encompassing not only local street food and fine dining, but also new and innovative dining concepts at all price

ranges. From savoury carrot cake to Hainan chicken rice and knock-your-socksoff curries, Singapore’s hawker centres are cheap, cheerful and unforgettable. A melting pot of ethnic diversity, the many centres – Maxwell Road, Newton and Lau Pa Sat are reliably good – are always buzzing with locals swarming around stalls

selling steaming bowls of noodles and ocean-fresh seafood. Fans chug overhead, plastic plates clatter, Tiger beer bottles clink and fizz – now that’s fine dining. For retail therapy, the GSS, Great Singapore Sale, happens yearly between June and August and offers plenty of shopping opportunities. One of the newest kids on the shopping block is

ION Orchard, about 400 retail outlets sprawling over numerous levels and underground passages. Go See Touring has two very special escorted tours to Singapore in 2019. Join Australian musicians Rodney Vincent, Graeme Hugo and Fortunato Isgro on an eight day Singapore Showcase Tour departing March 2, 2019. This tour features two

fabulous concerts by these entertainers. Price $3999 per person share twin (Ex Bne, Syd, Mel). For food lovers the eight day Singapore Food Festival Tour (departing Bne, Syd, Mel) on July 21, 2019 is sure impress. For a full itinerary, go to goseetouring.com or contact one of the friendly staff via email info@ goseetouring.com or phone 1300 551 997.

ALL ABOARD FOR A RELAXING JOURNEY

SATURDAY 22nd & SUNDAY 23rd SEPTEMBER ANNUAL CARNIVAL OF FLOWERS Come aboard a steam train at Roma St & travel to Toowoomba to see the Carnival of Flowers & view some of the gardens. Lunch Option Avail. Return Trip.

WEDNESDAY 26th SEPTEMBER CARNIVAL OF FLOWERS SILVER BULLET RAIL MOTOR Travel on the Silver Bullet 2000 Class Series Rail Motor from Roma St to Spring Bluff & onto Toowoomba. Lunch Option Available. Return Trip. 6810696ab

SUNSHINE EXPRESS RAIL TOURS

G. P.O. BOX 682, BRISBANE, 4001 Phone 3252 1759 Fax 3252 1767 Australian Railway Historical Society Queensland Division ABN 74 009 767 579 | www.arhs-qld.org.au Tuesday to Thursday 10am - 3pm

NATURAL ART: Visit the stunning Gardens by the Bay in Singapore on your next trip.

Photo: Tilt Pte Ltd

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

LIVING

Living

A GOOD DEAL: Having a concession applied is simple. If you hold a Seniors card, Gold card, Pension concession card or Immicard, just contact your electricity supplier and let them know and they will confirm and apply it on the spot. Photo: Contributed

Find the best energy deal Concessions could save you big bucks on your power bills the state and are now retired. Gold Card Holders: Veterans are entitled to a concession through the Department of Veteransâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Affairs. Pension Concession Card Holders: Those who currently qualify for a Pension Concession Card or a Commonwealth Healthcare Card are eligible for a concession. Immicard Holders: There is also an asylum seeker assistance for those eligible with an Immicard. One of the main reasons eligible people do

not have a concession applied to their electricity account is simply lack of knowledge. It is a shortfall of the system that these concessions are not applied automatically and individuals must ask for them. Your retailer should have systems in place to make sure that all of their customers are aware of the concessions they are entitled to. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t remember being asked about concessions by your retailer at any stage you

should call them to make sure you are not missing out. The second highest reason for not having a concession applied is that eligible Queenslanders donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like getting assistance. The cost of living pressure continues to face all Queenslanders and those eligible for concessions are representative of that group more than most. It is important to remember that in claiming your concession you are not taking funds away

from other people or issues, these are entitlements that have been set aside by the government for this purpose. The state government also distributed earnings from state owned electricity assets to the value of $50 to each residential electricity account across the whole state regardless of eligibility for concessions. Everyone should have seen this on their account for the April/May period and if you have not you should contact your

electricity supplier. Having a concession applied is simple, if you hold one of the above mentioned cards, just contact your electricity supplier and let them know and they will confirm and apply it on the spot. Unfortunately, backdating the concession has limitations, but moving forward you could be saving around $340 each year on your electricity bills.

To learn more about your right to a concession, just phone LPE on 1800 040 168.

Congratulations to our Winners

Congratulations to the winners of our July Book Club Giveaway. Elva Bell

Jennifer Mangan

Kerry Fenton

Gail Sloan

Jerry Patterson

Sue Dade

Ian Newberry

Jo-Anne Chapman

Susan Cheung

Stay tuned to the paper and our website for the latest Seniors News Giveaways Visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitions 6865582aa

IT WAS highlighted in the Queensland budget that only 7 in 10 eligible people take advantage of the energy concessions available to them. This means that 57,000 eligible people did not utilise any electricity concession, which equates to just over $19 million of unclaimed concessions. These concessions are in place to support different groups of Queenslanders in dealing with rising cost of living pressures. Seniors Card Holders: A concession is available to those that have supported

LIVING

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Gold Coast Seniors Expo

Come and check out more than 90 exhibits ADVERTORIAL THE Gold Coast Seniors Expo will be staged on Thursday, September 20 at the Albert Waterways Community Centre (next to the library) at the corner Hooker and Sunshine boulevards, in Mermaid Waters. Join in the education and information for seniors which runs from 9am-1pm. Entry to the expo is free and visitors will be able to enjoy the free sausage sizzle. To be opened by Councillor Paul Taylor, there will be plenty on offer for baby boomers and seniors with more than 90 exhibitors, including residential aged care providers, travel agents specialising in travel for seniors, vision aids, funeral services, in-home care providers and much more. There will be health and lifestyle information available, including on

retirement living options, seniors insurance, financial planners, investment advice, free hearing and eyesight checks and mobility aids. There will be presentations by CentreLink, the ATO, the City of Gold Coast and others. While the September expo is already booked for exhibitors, the organisers have invited any others with products and services relevant to seniors to participate in the final 2018 Expo at Southport Community Centre on Thursday, November 22. The expos are run by a not-for-profit organisation which aims to keep costs low with a minimal fee for exhibition space. Expo details are available online at www.gcseniors expos.com.au. For further information, contact event organiser Warren Elwell via email at warren.elwell @bigpond.com or phone 0409 277 430.

HEAR HERE: The Gold Coast Seniors Expo will be staged later this month with visitors able to access plenty of information and services. Photo: Contributed

Fresh change ahead for used containers

River Glen

Haven

QUEENSLANDERS are starting to get ready to embrace ‘Containers for Change’ with Queensland’s Container Refund Scheme set to come into effect in less than three months. Minister for Environment Leeanne Enoch said the scheme, due to commence on November 1, would allow Queenslanders to get a 10c refund when they recycle drink containers. “Nearly three billion

Where the living is easy Homes are selling quickly! Rentals also available

containers are used by Queenslanders each year and they are the second most commonly littered item in our environment,” Ms Enoch said. “This is disappointing, because they can be easily recycled.” Containers for Change is administered by Container Exchange (CoEx) the not-for-profit company appointed by the State Government to manage the scheme.

“With around three billion drinks containers eligible for a refund in Queensland, if only 10 per cent of these are given as donations to community collectors, that is $30 million going to the community sector in Queensland every year,” Acting Chair of Container Exchange Alby Taylor said. For more information, visit containersfor change.com.au.

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MAKE A CHANGE: Containers for Change makes it easy for any charity, community organisation or school to register with the scheme and receive a unique identification number that ensures they will receive the 10c refund directly into their account. Photo: Contributed

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

LIVING

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BRAND INSIGHTS

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

GREEN WITH ENVY: Regal Waters is impressive for its range of activities and is a community set conveniently close to all the services you could need. Photo: Alain Bouvier

Connected and caring Gateway Lifestyle offers residents a great sense of community Trent Ottawa said Regal Waters is impressive for its range of activities, and its truly connected residents. “Our residents enjoy a broad range of activities and make full use of the community centre, where the bar is open three days per week,” Mr Ottawa said. “They have a beautiful library, housed in a quaint little Queenslander, or you can relax with a coffee in the Book Cafe. “If you want something more active, the Village

WEdnEsday 17th OctObEr

Green hosts regular games of croquet, there’s a bowling green or you can enjoy aqua aerobics in the community swimming pool.” An indication of the welcoming nature of the residents at Regal Waters is the Meet, Greet and Celebrate event they hold every three months, at which new residents receive welcome certificates and everyone who’s had a birthday recently is congratulated. “The commercial grade kitchen in the community

centre is well used,” Mr Ottawa notes. “The committee prepare a fish and chip supper once a month on a Friday, and serve up around 100 meals.” While having friendly neighbours is a key consideration for some looking to downsize, the land lease living model offered by Gateway Lifestyle is often another deciding factor, as it is simple and means residents can free up capital previously tied up in land and use it to

travel, take up new hobbies, or for retirement. Mr Ottawa said one of the things residents love about their community is the quality in lifestyle and affordable cost of a home here. “Being able to afford a brand new home, with great community facilities, just over 45 minutes from the heart of the Gold Coast is something a lot of retirees don’t realise is possible. Until they hear about Gateway Lifestyle!” Gateway Lifestyle charges no entry or exit

fees, which allows residents to purchase a home at a lower price than traditional housing options in the same area. “We only have a handful of brand new, purpose-built homes left, so this is a great time to be downsizing into a low maintenance lifestyle,” Mr Ottawa said. The sales team at Regal Waters would love to hear from anyone interested in coming by for an inspection. Phone 1300 361 311 or log on to the website at gatewaylifestyle.com.au for more information.

Win Tickets to A Special Screening Thanks to Event Cinemas, we’re giving away 10 double passes for readers to attend the Seniors Morning Tea and Screening of the new film ‘First Man’ from 10am on Wednesday 17th October.^

On the heels of their six-time Academy Award®-winning smash, La La Land, Oscar®-winning director Damien Chazelle and star Ryan Gosling reteam for Universal Pictures’ First Man, the riveting story of NASA’s mission to land a man on the moon, focusing on Neil Armstrong and the years 1961-1969. A visceral, first-person account, based on the book by James R. Hansen, the Tickets $10* for Cinebuzz for Seniors Members. movie will explore the sacrifices and the cost—on Armstrong and on the nation—of one of the most dangerous missions in history. Sign up to be a member for free online at

eventcinemas.com.au Tickets for this screening on sale now!

Enter online at seniorsnews.com.au/competitions

*Online booking fees apply. ^Visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitionterms for full competition terms and conditions. Promoter is ARM Specialist Media Pty Ltd of 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore Qld 4558. Promotional period 03/09/18-28/09/18. Competition drawn 10am 01/10/18 at Cnr Mayne Rd and Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006. Winners announced in Seniors November Editions 2018. Total prize value $200.00 (including GST). Entry is open to all permanent residents of Queensland, residing in the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and Toowoomba Seniors distribution areas and NSW in the Northern NSW, Central Coast and Coffs & Clarence Seniors distribution areas. NSW Permit Number LTPM/18/03133

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SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

MONEY

Tony Kaye MOVING from employment into retirement is one of the most stressful financial stages in life, but it may be surprising to learn that the older we get the more we tend to save. That’s one of the findings from actuarial services provider Milliman in a new report, which suggests that retirees’ age is just as strong an indicator of behaviour as income levels. It casts doubt on common benchmarks, such as using a percentage of one’s final salary as a retirement savings target, which makes little allowance for lifestyle changes. Of course, some of us will spend more in retirement and others less. Some will run out of superannuation money and need to rely on the Age Pension. Yet, the Milliman Retirement Expectations and Spending Profiles (ESP) report shows that the median retired couple’s expenditure falls by more than one-third (36.7 per cent) as they move from early retirement (age 65-69) and into older age (85 years and beyond). Interestingly, this new analysis includes the latest census income data and shows that poor, middle-income and high-income retirees all show similar declines in expenditure throughout

retirement. The research tracks personal income (using census data) against expenditure (using the Milliman Retirement ESP) for low-income retirees (annual income below $33,800). While expenditure briefly peaks above income just before retirement in their early 60s, it quickly tapers off into older age. These low-income earners actually earn their highest lifetime incomes through retirement, earning more as they age. This is largely due to the support of the government Age Pension. Middle-income retirees (annual income between $33,800 and $91,000) also show similar declining expenditure (although their expenditure never exceeds income). Their peak spending – as a proportion of their income – is reached in their late 60s. At this point, average incomes are sitting at around $54,000, and spending is at a little over $30,000. Similarly, high-income earners (annual income above $91,000) are also saving money into retirement. Their spending drops from a peak figure of around $80,000 a year at about age 50, to around $65,000 in the late 60s, to around $38,000 once they hit age 85. The Milliman research shows that while wealthier retirees spend more in absolute terms, all three groups are saving money in retirement to greater and lesser degrees.

Money

RETIREMENT SAVING: The older we get, the more we tend to save. The Milliman Retirement ESP provides the most accurate possible picture of retiree behaviour by tracking changes in the real-world expenditure of more than 300,000 older Australians. It shows that the average proportion of income spent on housing, food, energy, leisure, goods and services, travel and insurance either declines slightly, or remains the same, regardless of income levels, through retirement. Only expenditure on

healthcare increases. Travel is the biggest loser as we age and lose mobility, falling from about eight per cent of spending to below four per cent. Yet, while overall spending declines, there are still significant variations between the lowest and highest earners in terms of how money is spent. There are also important expenditure trends under way, with home ownership levels declining in Sydney and Melbourne while energy prices are escalating

quickly. Milliman consultant Jeff Gebler said although energy represents a small proportion of overall household expenditure, the amount spent is significantly correlated to income levels: higher income households have more expensive (and energy-consuming) lifestyles. Energy expenditure increases until about age 65 and then stabilises before rising from age 80 (this may be because elderly Australians spend more time at home and

Photo: Wavebreakmedia

want to feel more comfortable rather than moving into aged care accommodation). All this data is interesting, but it has some practical implications as well. For one thing, superannuation funds and other financial product groups should be using it to design products to better meet the long-term income needs of retirees. Tony Kaye is the Editor of Eureka Report, which is owned by InvestSMART. www.investsmart.com.au.

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SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Who looks after super when I can’t? Monica Rule THE two most common questions I am asked by my Self Managed Superannuation Fund clients is who can manage their SMSF when they are unable to, and what they can do to make sure their superannuation goes to the right people when they die. Normally, these clients are members of a single-member SMSF or a husband and wife in a two-member SMSF. This means they are the main decision-makers. Under the superannuation law, an SMSF is a private superannuation fund where all members are individual trustees or directors of the corporate trustee. This means if a member is unable to manage their SMSF, they can no longer act as a trustee or director of a corporate trustee – the SMSF will not comply with the legal

structure under the law. Although the law allows six months for an SMSF to restructure, someone still needs to make decisions during this period. So what options are there for an SMSF member if they can no longer manage their fund because of mental incapacity or death? One option is an Enduring Power of Attorney. An EPoA is a legal document that allows a member to give a trusted person authority to make decisions for their SMSF. In the event a member is unable to act as a trustee or a director, their attorney can act in their place. The attorney assumes the duties, responsibilities and obligations of an SMSF trustee in their personal capacity. This means the attorney will be subject to civil and criminal penalties for any contravention of the

superannuation law. However if there is no EPoA in place prior to a member losing their mental capacity, then the only option is for someone to approach the Civil and Administrative Tribunal for either an administrator or a financial manager to be appointed. This may be a time-consuming and stressful process for loved ones to have to go through. SMSF members should also consider putting in place a binding death benefit nomination. A BDBN is a legal document that requires the remaining SMSF trustee to pay the deceased member’s superannuation to the person nominated by the deceased. Without a BDBN, a member cannot be certain their super will go to the people they intend. The government proposal to increase the maximum number of SMSF members from four to six may assist with

SUPER ADVICE: Act now to protect your SMSF. some of these issues. It means there will be other members in the SMSF who can hold an EPoA for an incapacitated member. However with more people making decisions for an SMSF, it may create greater risk. There is also the potential for children to use their numbers to outvote their parents.

SMSFs with larger numbers of members will need to have a trust deed with solid dispute resolution mechanism to resolve conflict among members. If SMSF members no longer wish to manage their fund, they could consider converting their SMSF to a Small Australian Prudential

Photo: kerriekerr

Regulation Fund, where a professional licensed trustee is responsible for managing the fund. There is also the option for members to roll their super into a retail or industry super fund prior to winding up their SMSF. For more SMSF information from Monica Rule, go to www. monicarule.com.au.

SmartMoney talk finance matters for women Paul Clitheroe THE #MeToo movement has highlighted issues of sexual harassment, but women face another challenge: the struggle for financial independence. Money regulator ASIC recently released some disturbing findings. Two out of five women find money decisions stressful and overwhelming. More than eight out of ten women aged under 35 don’t have a grasp of basic investment concepts, and women are still retiring with, on average, half the superannuation of men ($230,000 v $454,000). The irony is that

research continually shows women often make better investors than men, especially when it comes to researching options and taking a conservative rather than overly optimistic approach. However, women face serious challenges that can hold back their financial growth including the gender pay gap, and the greater likelihood of taking time out of the workforce to be carers either for children or ageing relatives. On top of this, ASIC says women often focus on the everyday needs of their families and so tend to view money as a short term rather than longer

term issue. To help women focus on their financial well-being, the MoneySmart website has launched a series of Women Talk Money videos. They feature Australian women sharing personal stories about money – an initiative designed to kick-start conversations around money matters and encourage women to make better financial decisions. That’s a good thing. The more we talk about our financial experiences, the more money management becomes a normal part of everyday life. MoneySmart also offers links to a range of free money tools including a budget planner

WISE WOMEN: Women still face the struggle for financial independence. Photo: Bojan89

and parental leave calculator. There’s no doubt that reforms around the gender pay gap could help women enjoy a more level financial playing field. Removing the $450 per month Superannuation Guarantee threshold, which sees many

part-time and casual workers – both men and women, denied employer-paid super contributions, could also have a significant impact on women’s financial health. However, these are things we can’t control in our everyday lives. What we can take charge of is the way we approach money. Something as simple as take an active interest in our financial well-being – and sharing ideas in open conversations can be the start of important change. For the record, encouraging women to achieve financial independence is something that should

start from an early age. US studies highlight the way that gender bias can kick in during childhood. Parents are often more likely to discuss money matters with boys rather than girls, or reward sons more than daughters for being good with money. Having relaxed discussions around money with our daughters can instil a sense of confidence that they can, and should, take control of their personal finances. Paul Clitheroe is Chairman of InvestSMART, Chairman of the Australian Government Financial Literacy Board and chief commentator for Money Magazine.

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BETTER DRIVING

GET THERE SAFELY: Taking a moment to learn about being a safer driver can help seniors stay in their cars for longer.

Top driving tips for seniors

Tracey Johnstone EVEN though you have probably been driving for countless years, taking a moment to learn what you could do to be a safer driver could save a life – and that life could be yours. University of the Sunshine Coast senior research fellow Dr Bridie Scott-Parker offers some top tips for better driving. Drivers: ■ Keep your distance by staying at least four seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. “It gives us time to stop if

the person in front suddenly stops and it gives you extra space to stop if there is someone right behind your car,” Dr Scott-Parker said. ■ Retain the four-second gap even when you are driving around town. ■ Recognise and be aware of road hazards, such as roundabouts, weather conditions, a variety of road users such as motorcycles or trucks, and the rules around merging, overtaking and tailgating. ■ Always look behind before you reverse. ■ If you struggle to see behind your car when

reversing or when you are changing lanes, find out what you can do to modify your car so you can see clearly, such as bigger mirrors. ■ Be conspicuous by ensuring your driving lights are on when driving at night. Just because your dashboard automatically lights up when you start your car doesn’t mean your headlights have come on as well. ■ If you have cataracts, don’t drive at night as headlights can make it difficult to see. ■ Take the time to plan your day carefully so you

aren’t feeling pressured to speed to get to an appointment. Also plan for roadwork delays and traffic, and slow down. ■ Stay up to date on the road rules. ■ Ask yourself – do you need to drive or could you catch a bus or car pool. Pedestrians: If you prefer to walk somewhere you still need to know the road rules. “Look left and right before you cross the road,” Dr Scott-Parker said. “If you are a pedestrian, never cross the road until you have made contact with the driver, such as

eye contact, smiling or a little wave. Don’t assume because the driver has looked at you that they have actually seen you. “Their brain might be on something completely different. Keep looking left and right as you are crossing the road and when you get to the other side, hopefully the driver is there waiting for you. “Again, give a little smile, a little wave and have that eye contact.” When walking at dusk or at night, wear a reflective vest or top so drivers can see you. Passengers: Seniors should delegate some

co-driving tasks to their passengers. “It’s not nagging, it’s co-driving,” Dr Scott-Parker said. “Look left and right if the car is pulling up to a stop sign. Don’t just let the driver be responsible, they might miss something. “It can be a little tricky though if you have a husband who for 50 years has ignored everything you have said and doesn’t want you to contribute. “That’s when our wonderful ladies can say, ‘I’m not nagging. Dr Bridie said I am co-driving’.”

Teach yourself to store car keys safely

HIDE THEM: Thieves have discovered retirement villages are a fertile ground for finding unlocked cars, garage openers and keys in plain view. Photo: Photobac

DON’T assume that living in a retirement village means your car will be safe from thieves. There was a time when you could park and leave your car unlocked and it would safe. Not any more, says detective Senior Sergeant Daren Edwards, of Queensland Police Service. Thieves have discovered retirement villages are a fertile ground for finding unlocked cars, garage openers and keys in plain view inside a house. “They can go into those

communities and it’s generally not a place where you have police circling around or a lot of people movement,” Sen Sgt Edwards said. “People also leave their remotes in the car and then the crooks use it to unlock the garage and then they are in the house. “And everyone used to have a key rack for their keys. Offenders just look through the window and see the keys sitting there. “We recently had a chap lose his vehicle while it was parked in his

retirement village in Noosa. He had left both the fob keys on the floor of the car.” Sen Sgt Edwards also wants seniors living in rural areas or on acreage to stop being lax about their car’s and potentially their own security. He recommends to all seniors it’s time to change their habits: ■ Park your car inside the garage, rather than on the driveway. ■ Lock your car when parked inside your garage or the carport, or on the street.

■ Leave the car keys in a safe place and out of sight, not in the car. ■ Put a message in your mobile phone, such as a phone contact called Car, with the location of where you have stored your car keys. ■ Tell a friend, family member or neighbour where you are safely storing your car keys, in case you forget their hiding place. ■ Put your keys at the back of a drawer, not at the front where a thief can easily see them.

NEWS

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Super spring tips from our local gardeners

Thanks to our passionate local gardeners, this month we share just a few of their top spring planting tips... GWEN BARNES, 66, TWEED HEADS

SPRINGTIME for roses means feeding, says Gwen. She recommends before you start that you remove all the mulch you put on in winter to protect the plants. Gwen says if you leave it on they could end up with root rot or with little nasties crawling around that you don’t want. Then create air flow around the base of the plants. If you find your roses

have developed scale, spray them with eco oil. This is the time when roses are on their way to fabulous blooming and need lots of nutritional

GRAHAM RUSHTON, 75, BUNDABERG

IT’S time to compost to boost the efficiency of the garden, before starting your spring planting. Graham’s compost has leaves from trees in his garden, dead headed flowers and any other plants around the garden that need to be recycled. To make it Graham uses his lawnmower. He

spreads everything out on a small patch of grass and then uses the lawnmower to cut it up to make the compost. Because he has chickens he also adds

KAY NESBITT, 71, GOLD COAST

KAY’S succulents are her passion. They are easy to grow, fairly hardy and produce glorious colours. At the start of spring, the first job for her is trim the plants. She then has a very close look at all her plants, moving those that will benefit more from the summer sun and moving others than can sit happily in the shadier areas.

Some of her plants will be moved into a new pot and given a boost with a half succulent and half potting mix refresher, or

PAT ROSER, 87, COFFS HARBOUR

IT’S time to prepare the ground for spring annuals – primulas, marigolds and pansies, Pat says. She digs quickly over the soil, digging in the mulch that has been sitting there during winter. Then Pat gets the fertiliser ready for when she starts planting. Pat will pop in the fertiliser and the garden

compost she has been making before putting in the plants.

things to get them on their way. A good general all-purpose feed will keep them happy. Gwen says give them some Epsom Salts and a little bone meal mixed up in about a quarter of a cup. Doing this may well boost them. Gwen encourages seniors to enjoy the spring and look forward to awesome blooms. Her’s will be on display at the Annual Flower & Garden Show on September 29. some of the soil from their yard. Graham also adds good quality potting mix and Rooster Booster. He spreads this over the vegetable garden and around the flowers. If you live in an apartment, he suggests you hand cut your dead headed flowers, add potting mix and very little Rooster Booster as it is quite strong – maybe 10-12 pellets. she uses that mix to top up her pots and garden plants. Kay will cut a few pieces off some of her succulents, wash off the soil and put them in a vase that is about half full of water, where they can sit inside her house as a beautiful display for several months. In later months, she will replant those cuttings in her garden. She also swaps cuttings with like-minded friends. Once that is done, Pat will put on a layer of lucerne just to protect the plants. For the fertiliser Pat uses dynamic lifter, but during summer she uses Osmocote granules or Seasol. Living in a retirement village, her gardens are on display for the residents and they have open days and a Coffs Harbour gardening competition.

ROBERT JANETZKI, 72, TOOWOOMBA

JUST in time for the Toowoomba Garden Festival which runs from September 21-30, Robert recommends for bromeliad enthusiasts the following spring tips. Start with removing all dead leaves, particularly from the vase as the debris can rot the plant if it’s not flushed out. Next is to fertilise with

a slow release product with no copper in it, an organic fertiliser or a seaweed like Seasol or Organic Extra.

CHRIS O’DEMPSEY, 73, SUNSHINE COAST

WHILE Chris’ various orchid plants will flower at most times of the year, spring is when they are at their most magnificent. To prepare them for his annual open garden and to keep them in good health for the hot months ahead, Chris is busy nurturing his prized plants. He targets the warmer part of the day to spray the all each plant with a

mild fertiliser diluted into about two or more litres water. It is made up of 15ml of

JEAN TYLER, 77, CENTRAL COAST

JEAN says it’s time for her gloriously colourful selection of pansies, violas and impatients, with winter greens among them, in the hanging and ground-level pots, to be refreshed. She firstly removes the plants as they end their winter blooming. Then Jean takes out about a quarter of the soil and puts it in the

garden, replacing it with fresh potting mix and everlasting fertiliser. Once planted up, she waters the pots with Seasol. Jean is planting

BERENICE CORVI, 86, BRISBANE

EVEN after 54 years of sharing her gardening skills to her fellow Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club members, Berenice still looks for something special for each month’s meeting. Berenice plans for spring to have ready some bulbous flowers. She starts with testing the soil to ensure the acid in the garden reads no less than 6.5, and then she uses her old lawn

composted clippings to mulch around the plants to protect against evaporation. Her trick to help fast track the growth of her spring seedlings is to hold them in a little hole and then water them in with

A good check for disease such as scale or mealybug is worthwhile doing. The pups, or new growth, can then be removed from the mother. But, before they are planted in pots or in the garden, Robert recommends letting them sit somewhere dry for 24 hours to help avoid disease or rot getting into the root of the pup. Carbaryl, a teaspoon of trace element, four or five teaspoons of orchid bloom booster and orchid fertiliser, when then needs stirring. On Australia’s east coast, Chris said the easiest orchid to start growing in spring, indoor or outdoor, are the soft cane dendrobiums which have a beautiful perfume, and in protected areas of the garden, the phalaenopsis which can flower for up to three months. snapdragon and marigold seeds which she has stored during the winter in an envelope and kept in a kitchen draw, plus geranium cuttings, verbena and petunia plants. Jean tries to use small plants so she can get lots of them in a pot, leaving room to add in each pot a few summer edibles plants such as frilly lettuce and Chinese greens. Seasol. Berenice’s other clever spring tip is to put a clay pot on top of each planting and spread mulch around the pot’s edge. They are left like that for a few days. Then for about five days she takes the pots off each morning, so the plants get some sun, before replacing them at night. Finally, if the sun is very strong, Berenice places garden cuttings around the edge of each planting to create some shade.

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

PUZZLES

JIGGERED

10/9

The challenge is to rearrange a crossword which has been broken into 25 sections. One letter has been given to get you started. Work out which s uare ts in with that letter and write in the letters. ou can also shade the black s uares i you nd it hel ul. ter co leting the rst area work out which s uare oins on to it and continue until you have ade a co lete crossword.

O L O A U N D

R G E I X N T

T T H A N

R U E E S

R E E H A Y R

A R E T E I L

N A S G H C A

G U E N R E D

A B S

R K N E A

A X I R B C I E

D T G E E R

P E A N C A V

R V I E M U R

M O N E H

L E R O A C G

S U X E A

T Y L

A P D E R

A A T E L N

A I C D D

C O U

I G N A L R

N P T E E I

E L O

S T

T D N T S P

QUICK CROSSWORD Across 7. A country’s people (6) 8. Silenced (6) 10. Wild (7) 11. Throw out (5) 12. Bring in money (4) 13. Boasts (5) 17. Unpleasant (5) 18. Costly (4) 22. Cheeky (5) 23. Former (7) 24. Adrift (6) 25. Hat (6)

Down 1. Makes certain (7) 2. Standing height (7) 3. Punctuation mark (5) 4. Make an attempt (4,1,2) 5. Concur (5) 6. Redacts (5) 9. Worship (9) 14. Looked after someone else’s child (7) 15. Degenerate (7) 16. Inhumane treatment (7) 19. Habitual (5) 20. Religious song (5) 21. Underneath (5)

TRIO

8 9

13 14 17

Can you complete these four words, using the same three-letter sequence in each?

SUDOKU

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

Across: 7. Nation 8. Gagged 10. Untamed 11. Eject 12. Earn 13. Brags 17. Nasty 18. Dear 22. Sassy 23. Onetime 24. Aﬂoat 25. Bonnet. Down: 1. Ensures 2. Stature 3. Comma 4. Have a go 5. Agree 6. Edits 9. Adoration 14. Babysat 15. Deviant 16. Cruelty 19. Usual 20. Psalm 21. Below.

QUICK CROSSWORD

QUIZ 1. When was GST (goods and services tax) introduced in Australia? 2. From what language does the word “ketchup” come: German, Hindi or Chinese? 3. Titania, Oberon, Miranda, Umbria and Ariel are all moons of which planet? 4. Who country music star, who died in 2017, played rhythm guitar on Frank Sinatra’s classic “Strangers in The Night”? 5. Which elephants have bigger ears, indian or African? 6. What was Gene Roddenberry’s most famous creation? 7. What was the nationality of Henri Dunant, founder of the Red Cross? 8. Which Latin word, meaning “so” or “thus” is used in brackets after a printed word or passage to indicate that it exactly reproduces the original?

M I D G E

O D O U R S

R E G I M E

N S O U P R D O S C K S O K E L I T O N S L T U T A R I N E E K S I C E C A P D E V I L S R O T A

WORDFIT

R E B R A E G N E R W A A P L I D S

E B I D D I T O R A N A N A M L A G B I T E F A C E D A L T E R Y D E E D P G A Y E S I R E WO O N S S U N S

QUIZ

1. July 1, 2000, 2. Chinese, 3. Uranus, 4. Glen Campbell, 5. African, 6. Star Trek, 7. Swiss, 8. Sic.

6 LETTERS BANANA DESIRE DEVILS DONATE EDITOR ERMINE GUITAR

7 LETTERS LITERAL RENEWAL

JIGGERED

4 LETTERS ALAS BITE DEED DINS DYES EDAM IDES PEWS ROTA SUDS

5 LETTERS BALED FACED LURES MIDGE MORON RAGED REBAG REBID SCRAM SEEKS SOLOS TULIP

ICECAP ITALIC ODOURS OVERDO POCKET RAPIDS RECOUP REGIME REGION SPOKEN SWOONS WATERY YEARNS

TRIO: RiA

Solution opposite

SUNS TANK

SUDOKU

Fit the words into the grid to create a nished crossword

3 LETTERS BIN DOG FAT GAY KEG KIN LAG LAP NOR SOU TIC TIE

ALPHAGRAMS

WORDFIT

SCRUB, TAGGED, UGLiEST, VOLATiLE, WHiSTLiNG.

Good 14 Very Good 17 Excellent 21+

G E X T U E N E D A T E N E R A G R E

S O

I L

578

S U R X E I A N O L O G A U N D R T D A N T L R U L E E O S C S P A T A B S E

TODAY

M O

CURBS GADGET USE GILT A LIVE LOT SLIGHT WIN

D I G R E E N H A R A L R Y A M O N I C E D D H T A X I T H R B A N C I E H R T Y K N S T L E A A D T P G E D E R E R

K O

T C

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, e.g. he burns with anger.

P E N A C A V E C O I L O U P N T E E I N A S H G C A V R E I M U R

WORD GO ROUND

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

cork corks corm crook crooks moor moors mort motor motors rock rocks rook rooks room rooms roost root rots sort STOCKROOM stork storm torc torso

ALPHAGRAMS

GOLD COAST

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

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