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In this edition

Profile Story: Joy Payne ..........................................Page 3 Cover Story: Senior Australian of the Year .....Pages 6-7 Travel ................................................................Pages 13-16 Wellbeing .........................................................Pages 18-21 Living ...............................................................Pages 24-25 Puzzles.....................................................................Page 31

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

Welcome

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, January 15, 2018

Smiling is infectious

Inspiration found in all corners of Australia HAPPY New Year! Whether cynical, hopeful or otherwise, we are at the opportune time of the year to make some resolutions that will better our lives and those around us. To that end, I am sure you will find inspiration from our cover story which honours the people nominated in each state and territory for The Senior Australian of the Year award (Pages 6 & 7). Their stories profile the far-reaching effects of their work and passion to improve other people’s lives. In South Australia, nominee Barbara Sprigg was prompted to expose poor treatment suffered by her husband in an Aged Care facility. At a time of personal grieving, she bravely confronted

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK GAIL FORRER

Group editor Seniors Newspapers network

the system, paving the way for respectful and proper care for patients. I was so impressed with her New Year sentiments, I have shared them with you, she wrote: “As we begin 2018, let’s embrace our lives as seniors. Be proud of our achievements, take care of our bodies and minds; things I always work towards. Walk and talk often with a friend. Say or do something nice for someone each day. Be prepared to speak out, it could lead to better things for others. Don’t underestimate the power and ability you have. Help make 2018 count. Together we can achieve great things.” (Story page 6). Indeed, don’t underestimate the power of a smile.

❝

As we begin 2018, let’s embrace our lives as seniors. Be proud of our achievements, take care of our bodies and minds; Barbara Sprigg, Australian of the Year nominee from South Australia Last September we published a simple poem about smiles, by Spike Milligan, on our Facebook site (www.facebook.com/ seniorsnews). To date,it has achieved far-reaching audience results which have included online views of the poem which have added up to about six million and still increasing. But the world is a big place and for those who missed the poem, I think

our first print edition in 2018 is an apt place to share: Smiling is infectious, you catch it like the flu, When someone smiled at me today, I started smiling too. I passed around the corner and someone saw my grin. When he smiled I realised I'd passed it on to him. I thought about that smile, then I realised its worth. A single smile, just like mine could travel round the earth. So, if you feel a smile begin, don't leave it undetected. Let's start an epidemic quick, and get the world infected! As Seniors Newspaper Editor my resolution is to keep up the stories, interesting profiles and professional advice that entertains and engages you (and, of course makes you smile). - Cheers Gail

Visit our N NEW website www.discreethearing.com.au

Profile Story

Monday, January 15, 2018 seniorsnews.com.au

Gold Coast

Seniors 3

Hockey legend chosen to carry Queen’s Baton JOURNALIST YVONNE GARDINER

yvonne.gardiner@apn.com.au

JOY Payne’s achievements as a hockey player alone make her well qualified to carry the Queen’s Baton in the lead-up to the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast. While she missed out on tickets to the opening ceremony on April 4, she’ll be taking centre-stage with the baton the day before. “I’m going to ask if my grandchildren can walk with me,” the Clear Island Waters resident said. The peak of Joy’s hockey career was making it into the World XI in 1963. Playing first grade hockey from the age of 14, she was only 20 when she won her first Australian

honours to represent her country at the World Championships in Amsterdam in 1959. Joy remembers the Australian Government gave each player 60 pounds ($120) to help with expenses for a trip that was “absolutely exciting”. “It was a six weeks’ boat trip from Sydney to Gibraltar. We travelled on the Arcadia,” she said. “Nobody flew in those days. We left Sydney and went to Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth, and picked up players along the way. “Then we went across to Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) and played, then from Ceylon we went through the Suez Canal. “We got off and saw the Pyramids and had a wonderful time.” From Gibraltar, the players took the train through Spain and Belgium. “Most of the way we

were billeted and entertained,” Joy said. “We went to England and then across to Amsterdam.” At home, Joy represented NSW in hockey for 17 years. Her citation at the Orange Sporting Hall of Fame describes her as “a brilliant athlete at school”. “Joy had to choose between the two sports and, luckily for hockey, her decision went that way and she eventually rose to be captain of New South Wales and vice-captain of Australia,” it reads. “In 1963, in a match played in scorching heat in Maryland, Australia trailed Germany by 1-0 with four minutes to play. Joy slammed in the equaliser and then stunned the Germans with one minute to play when she belted in the winning goal for Australia.” Joy retired from A grade hockey in 1975.

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She says the highlight of her sporting career was all the friends she made. “The people of hockey were tremendous,” she said. “It was a wonderful camaraderie. I value those friendships greatly.” Joy was a primary

school teacher until her retirement in 1993. “For most of my life, I taught the gifted and talented children,” she said. “I still see a few of them.” She has also taught

swimming and PE. The 79-year-old is still active, playing tennis twice a week. She and 3500 other bearers will bring the baton across the country to the opening ceremony on the Gold Coast.

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COMMONWEALTH GAMES: After a glittering hockey career, Joy Payne will again be in the spotlight as a Queen’s Baton bearer in April. PHOTO: YVONNE GARDINER

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Seniors News

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, January 15, 2018

Destigmatising death Tracey Johnstone

DIG below the surface of the quirky Coffin Club name and what you will find is a group of north island New Zealanders who are de-stigmatising death. The clubs are staffed by seniors who build coffins that can then be personalised with anything you like – TARDIS, go-kart, chooks, Elvis tributes and more. Club founder Katie Williams, 78, came up with the idea about seven years ago. “People who want to, can personalise their own going away by ordering a coffin and having it made to their specifications, and then decorating it in a way that it depicts really what their life has been around or about,” Katie said. That’s the simple explanation of what they are about. But Katie said the clubs also promoted a lot more – laughter and love, creativity, socialisation personal and family connections, and usefulness. Her idea was hatched at

a U3A meeting. “In one of the meetings they were saying they wanted a bit more diversity within the groups, and did anyone have a good idea,” Katie said. “Why, oh why I stood up and said I wanted to make my own coffin, I will never know. “Dead silence followed until after the meeting when there was a queue of people to see me. “They liked the idea of being in control of their own departure; doing something that meant it was them rather than just a mahogany box.” She had no idea where to start. “But then I had to put my money where my mouth was and gather little old men who could do the carpentry bits and little old ladies like myself who could decorate and run it. We started off in my carport and very soon it grew like topsy,” Katie said. Each club’s voluntary members gather together about once a week to use their skills and creativity “in a positive way”.

“We have lots of ‘darling’ men who are ex-carpenters, joiners, builders, cabinetmakers,” Katie said. “They make the coffins. Until recently we had the opportunity of having all our people being able to help make the coffins, but we’ve had new safety legislation. “When we look back it was a bit hazardous having gentle, sometimes disabled, fragile little ‘flowers’ tripping among the wires and saws. They have been banned, but they can watch their coffin being made, from a distance. All their participation now in the coffin making is the decoration.” Apart from the coffin building, a very important part of the group coming together is the social experience for many of them who live by themselves. They greet each other with recognition and the welcome personal touch of a hug. “We care about each other,” Katie said. “It’s also an opportunity for them to talk to their

QUIRKY COFFINS: Coffin Club Rotorua member Dave, with one of his “masterpieces”. PHOTO: KATIE WILLIAMS / COFFIN CLUBS

family about this. In many families, the younger ones don’t talk about it. As far as they are concerned, nothing is ever going to happen to their mum or dad, or grandma or grandpa. And, that’s not right. It’s not correct and it can never be correct. So, we have had quite a lot of family involvement. “For example, we had quite a tragic death in Rotorua. We had a coffin that was ready to decorate and 20 of the family members came in and we just left them to it. We

supplied anything they wanted. They painted, they lined, they cried and laughed.” A basic coffin with six handles and lined with legally required plastic, costs NZ$300. “We use rubbish wood or MDF which is compressed sawdust so that we aren’t chopping down trees to do it,” Katie said. “It burns readily and is very suitable for burial as well. “We are trying to do the right thing, although it’s not quite eco-friendly. It’s

cheap and cheerful.” There is little money made by the not-for-profit clubs, but what is left over, a portion is donated to the local hospice, and some is used for the gifts of John Doe coffins and beautifully decorated baby coffins for premature babies. The local funeral service operators have come to terms with the competition. It wasn’t easy to start, but Katie said they now come to her, from time to time, to buy a coffin.

Don’t get conned by the person at your door

BE SUSPICIOUS OF PEOPLE WHO... ■ Knock on your door unexpectedly, offering to paint the house, work on your garden or cut trees, resurface

driveways, fix your roof. ■ Offer cheap deals using words like “for today only”. ■ Ask for the cash up front. ■ Offer to drive you to the bank to get money to pay for the job. ■ Pressure you to accept their offer. ■ Say they can do the job now as another nearby has just cancelled. Particularly after disasters, be wary of anyone offering you a “today only” deal to carry out repairs for cash.

TIPS TO PROTECT YOURSELF

■ If you suspect a travelling con man is knocking, then do not answer. ■ If you do speak to them, ask them to leave. If they refuse, they are breaking the law.

IF YOU WANT WORK DONE ON YOUR HOUSE ■ Shop around for the quote that is perfect for you. ■ Use established

tradespeople who provide written quotes. ■ Ask for contact details of previous clients, so you can check references. ■ Don’t sign any agreement until you are ready. ■ Ask for the tradesman’s full name and registration or licence details (if applicable) so you can check these with their industry authority. ■ Ask for the business’s number, so you can call to confirm whether the tradesman works for them.

REPORT TRAVELLING CON MEN IN YOUR AREA

If you know of travelling con men in your area: ■ Record as much information as you can, such as their name and vehicle registration ■ Report them to the national travelling con men hotline on 1300 133 408 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday (except public holidays) ■ Report them to your local police.

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Cover Story: Senior of the Year

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, January 15, 2018

Who will take out Senior of

Tracey Johnstone

AN outstanding group of eight senior Australians have been nominated from each state and territory for the 2018 Senior Australian of the Year award. We meet each of them here and find out what they want to see change in 2018. Once you have heard from each of the nominees, you can go online to Seniors News to vote for who you think should win this year’s award.

Dr Paul Zimmet.

VIC – PROF PAUL ZIMMET AO

The scientist and diabetes specialist has been an international leader in his field for 40 years. Paul’s work has had a profound impact on Australians with diabetes. His research studies in the 1980s predicted the current global epidemic of Type 2 diabetes, and he was instrumental in convincing governments and health

organisations of the disease’s social and economic impact. “I will maintain my strong advocacy for increased action for prevention and early diabetes diagnosis for Australians of all ages and backgrounds. Why diabetes? Because it is one of the greatest health threats facing Australia, affecting nearly 4.5 million – about two million with diabetes and 2.5 million with pre-diabetes. I hope by example (as a cyclist and jogger) to use my age promoting healthy lifestyle messages encouraging people to live well in their older years. It will ensure Australians are well equipped, both physically and mentally, to enjoy their later decades.”

Dr Diminity Dornan.

QLD – DR DIMITY DORNAN AO

A speech pathologist for more than five decades, Dimity has changed the

lives of thousands of children and young adults, through Hear and Say, which she founded 25 years ago. She has devoted her career to helping deaf children to listen and speak by training their brains to use implantable bionic technologies, like the cochlear implant. “I live and work in a world where science, technology and the internet are colliding for the betterment of mankind. In 2018, I will continue to advocate for the support of Hearing across the Lifespan and also for Bionics (medical devices where medicine and engineering meet) because it affects all Australians at some time in their lives. Hearing loss is an invisible problem that can affect not only listening and speaking, but also reading, education, making friends, mental health, career and economic potential. I will address this by advocating for the national campaign ‘Break the Sound Barrier’ to make hearing research, healthcare and well-being the 10th national health priority.”

Barbara Spriggs.

for others. Don’t underestimate the power and ability you have. Help make 2018 count. Together we can achieve great things.”

SA – BARBARA SPRIGGS

When Barbara suspected her husband Bob was being mistreated in a government-run mental health facility, she pushed for answers. After suspecting her husband was being physically and chemically restrained, Barb lifted the lid on a story of systematic aged care abuse and neglect. Barb’s persistence at a time of great personal grief honours her beloved husband with a legacy of better care and respect for older people in aged-care facilities around Australia. “As we begin 2018, let’s embrace our lives as seniors. Be proud of our achievements, take care of our bodies and minds; things I always work towards. Walk and talk often with a friend. Say or do something nice for someone each day. Be prepared to speak out, it could lead to better things

Dr Graham Farquhar.

ACT – DR GRAHAM FARQUHAR AO

The biophysicist is one of Australia’s most eminent scientists. He has helped reshape our understanding of photosynthesis, the very basis of life on Earth. In 2017, Graham became the first Australian to win a Kyoto Prize – the most prestigious international award for fields not traditionally honoured with a Nobel Prize. From his long-term base at the Australian National University, Graham is tackling some of the most profound challenges facing humanity and the environment. “I am going to become fit, cook well, re-start modern dance, write up all

overdue scientific papers, spend more time with family, learn plant taxonomy, get rid of the weeds, and watch pigs flying from dawn to dusk. But, I am committed as part of the Kyoto Prize to lecturing in San Diego and Oxford, and voluntarily within Australia, emphasising to young people the importance of creativity, of struggling for honesty, and of accepting that there will be failures along the way in any career. I will make some inroads into the pig-flying stretch goals, and accept some failures.”

Kathy Guthadjaka.

NT – KATHY GUTHADJAKA

Kathy is an East Arnhem Land educator, pioneering academic and senior elder from Gäwa in north-east Arnhem Land. She is passionate about preserving traditional knowledge and sharing this with the greater global

Cover Story: Senior of the Year

Gold Coast

the Year title in 2018?

Awards reflect vision, values SINCE its inception in 1960, the Australian of the Year Award has provided a forum for the recognition of outstanding achievement. The award offers an insight into Australian identity. It has also provoked spirited debate about the fields of endeavour that are most worthy of recognition. In this way, the awards have advanced a national conversation – they have encouraged us to consider who are the Australians who make us proud.

Dr Catherine Hamlin.

in the public eye simply because I had to tell the story of the fistula patients. To be a voice for them. I will continue to do this.”

NSW – DR CATHERINE HAMLIN AC

For more than 50 years, obstetrician Catherine Hamlin, now 93, has devoted herself to giving women in Africa a second chance at life. She and her late husband Dr Reginald Hamlin founded a network of six hospitals and a midwifery college in Ethiopia. The hospitals provide free fistula repair surgery to poor women suffering from horrendous and preventable childbirth injuries. “The story of the fistula patients is a story that every Australian should hear. Childbirth should be a joyful occasion. But to these women it’s a nightmare. I want all Australians to know that they have the capacity to make a difference. “Small acts of kindness really do add up to big things. I have put myself

Tony Scherer.

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starting conversations that break down the barriers, of being more supportive when we recognise someone has a challenge in the workplace or home. I plan to continue with my International Gynaecological Awareness Day and Undies for Better Understanding campaign, but more importantly, to mobilise the community to do their part too. “I am one person, but we are many!”

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Perth-based Gynaecological Awareness Information Network. “My desire is to reach as many people from as possible, aged 14-100, with the message of gynaecological and related sexual, mental health awareness. “Why? Because women suffer in silence, families feel the ripple effects of the suffering and as a community, we are capable of doing more. “We are capable of

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to train as many farmers as we can to grow local produce and market it in their local area so that people can get fresh food. I will also continue my presidency of the NGO, Sprout, which provides scholarships to current or future farmers. We conduct training in soil and plant health, extending growing seasons, marketing, financing, and pest and disease control.”

The Coal Valley organic farmer is a pioneer of the organic farming movement. He has promoted sustainable farming methods for more Kathleen Mazzella. than 50 years. Tony demonstrated that WA – KATHLEEN organic viticulture was possible and profitable, MAZZELLA OAM with the winery’s pinot noir Facing a radical winning multiple awards. gynaecological cancer He has helped to build diagnosis at the age of Tasmania’s reputation as 39, women’s health a world leader in this wine champion Kathleen was style, creating jobs and convinced she was alone. supporting a new industry. Determined to connect “If I can accomplish and empower other anything it would be to get women, and to reduce the more people to eat food stigma and that is ready-to-eat, not squeamishness around shipped. For our women’s health, Kath organisation Sprout, it is established the

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community. “The first step in reaching my goals in the coming year is to qualify for surgery, (and for my people, there are many barriers) get listed, and find a kidney donor who matches me. Next is to receive the new kidney, finish with dialysis and return home to my grandchildren, my extended family and to Gawa homeland on Elcho Island. “I will then be able to take part more fully in the life of my communities both at Gawa and with the women in Galiwin’ku. I will continue to work with the Northern Institute at CDU and will start again fresh working with Gawa Christian School to consolidate two-way learning and all the methods we have successfully trialled into lesson development technique that will remain to benefit generations to come. “It may eventually benefit the broader Australian teaching community by showing how valuing students and their families can open receptivity for better learning outcomes.”

Seniors 7

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Monday, January 15, 2018 seniorsnews.com.au

Local Story Advertisement

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU DIE WITHOUT A WILL? When you die without a Will (or a valid Will), the legal definition is that you die “intestate”. Wills and Estates lawyer Larisa Kapur discusses some of the issues that can affect your family if you die without a Will. We have many clients who refuse to do their Wills because they don’t wish to tempt fate. They believe that doing their Will will prompt some catastrophic event that will lead to their death! People may scoff at this suggestion but you would be surprised at how many people genuinely feel that if they do their Will, something terrible will happen to them. Other people think that they are young and bulletproof and therefore don’t think that they need to do a Will. Whatever your reasons are for not doing a Will, it can cause complete havoc with the family members or relatives that you leave behind you when you die. Everyone should consider that it is a matter of when you die not if! Everyone should therefore conduct themselves on the basis that their lives will end at some point in time and we should all make sure that we have a valid Will to assist our families in administering our estate after we die. Below are some of the issues that can arise if you die intestate: 1.

Separation from your spouse (but not divorced) One of the most common things that can affect someone who dies intestate is that although they have separated from their spouse (and in some cases many years prior to their death), because they have not done a Will, under the laws of intestacy in all states of Australia, the majority of the estate goes to the surviving spouse. This is the case even if the person who died and their separated spouse have lived apart for a long time and no longer have any form of relationship. In addition to this, the spouse is entitled to become the administrator of the estate which can cause some awkward issues if the former spouse and the family of the deceased do not get along. There can also be issues even if the person who dies has a new partner. In Queensland, the definition of a ‘de facto spouse’ requires a continuous relationship of 2 years (S.5AA Succession Act QLD). Once again, this can cause significant problems for the new spouse of the deceased if he or she does not qualify as a de facto and satisfy the minimum 2 year requirement (this would not matter even if the couple had planned to marry). The best thing to do for everyone concerned is to make a new will after you separate!

Your estate could go to unwanted beneﬁciaries Although the laws of intestacy differ slightly from state to state, the order of entitlement on intestacy is usually as follows:(a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f)

Your spouse or de facto spouse; Your children (and grandchildren if a child has predeceased you); Your parents; Your siblings (including any half siblings); Your Grandparents; Your Aunts & Uncles

Once again, depending on the makeup of your family, this could lead to the situation where someone inherits the whole or part of your estate in circumstances where you would not want that to happen under any circumstances. Fate can intervene in strange ways and accidents can happen where a significant number of family members are unexpectedly killed. This can lead to someone down the line under the laws of intestacy inheriting assets where you would not want this to happen. Making a Will ensures this does not happen! 3.

Dealing with your estate after your die If you die without a Will it is very difficult for your surviving family members to access your assets and administer your estate. Banks, local Councils, the Titles Office, phone companies, electricity providers, Centrelink, Medicare, medical providers – in fact any public entity that you need to deal with will not recognise or deal with you unless you are the administrator of the estate. If there is no Will, you must apply for Letters of Administration from the Court which effectively entitles you to administer the estate as if you were an executor appointed in a Will (where Probate of the Will is obtained). Obtaining Letters of Administration can be a difficult process, depending on the mechanics of the family and who survives the intestate deceased person. Families are very complicated in some cases and if you do not satisfy the order the priority in relation to a person entitled to obtain a Grant of Letters of Administration, it can be a very complicated and expensive exercise. Even after a Grant of Letters of Administration has been obtained, you must then assume the duties of an executor in an estate and this can also throw up some challenges with respect to administering a complicated estate and dealing with distribution of the estate assets in accordance with the laws of intestacy. You must also assume the responsibility for paying any tax and other liabilities on behalf of the estate as well as deal with any potential claims that might be brought by family members. Making a Will avoids all of this!

Conclusion These are just some of the things that can arise if you die without a Will. The legal costs in dealing with some of these issues alone can be tens and sometimes hundreds of thousands of dollars. Most people can get their Will done by an experienced Wills and Estates lawyer for around $300.00 plus GST. Although this would only be a “simple Will”, at least you would have appointed executors to act in your estate and given an indication of your intentions as to who you would like to inherit your estate after you die. This simple step could save you and your family a lot of anguish and money in the long run.

If you require advice in relation to having your Will done for you, please contact our Wills and Estates Department Manager, Donna Tolley on direct line 07 5506 8241, email dtolley@attwoodmarshall.com.au or free call 1800 621 071 to book your free 30 minutes estate planning review appointment with one of our dedicated Estate Planning lawyers.

Freecall 1800

621 071

Visit our website attwoodmarshall.com.au Coolangatta | Kingscliff | Robina Town Centre

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, January 15, 2018

Birdkeepers’ guide celebrates 30 years Yvonne Gardiner

THE popularity of aviculture, keeping and breeding birds in captivity, ebbs and flows. Three decades ago, aviculture was a “dirty word”, says Australian BirdKeeper magazine editor Sheryll Steele-Boyce. Critics said it was cruel to keep birds in captivity. Conservationists now are seeing the value of captively breeding birds, because many species are extinct or endangered in the wild, and natural habitats are diminishing. Many people around the world who keep and breed birds have turned to the Australian BirdKeeper for information and advice. The magazine is celebrating its 30th anniversary. It was started in the Tweed and is now based in Burleigh, but it is distributed around Australia and worldwide. Sheryll met her ex-husband Nigel a year after he started BirdKeeper. “Shortly after, he published the first A Guide to … series book on rosellas and their mutations,” she said. “This was the beginning of a list of 30 captive care titles on species kept in Australia, plus specialist titles on health and diseases in birds and pet and companion birds. “Some of the authors are from overseas and they have been invited to write as they are leaders in breeding the specific species book topic.” The ABK Publications website

KNOWLEDGE: Australian BirdKeeper magazine editor Sheryll Steele-Boyce sources knowledge from experts around the world for the publication, which is celebrating its 30th birthday. PHOTO: YVONNE GARDINER

www.birdkeeper.com.au was introduced in 1996. “We used to make enormous sales overseas and it slowly started to diminish as the internet became more prevalent,” Sheryll said. “I decided it was time to diversify eight years ago into reptile and amphibian books, and distribution of quality natural pet products for birds, reptiles, amphibians, cats and dogs. “Today, about 30 per cent of the books are now out of print but we’re setting them up as ebooks.” Regular contributors to the magazine include bird vets, pet bird behaviourists, bird breeders, pet bird owners, ecologists, conservationists and young people entering the hobby. “The thing with aviculture, it’s an older person’s hobby mostly,” Sheryll says.

“It gives them an interest every day. If they have a love of birds and maybe kept them when younger, they turn to such a hobby with more time available to enjoy the beauty of bird-keeping. “The younger generation aren’t joining the hobby in great numbers, as there are more distractions. Some families enjoy keeping a range of animals including birds, mostly where they have an environment and property to sustain the animals – such as on rural properties. “In suburbia there’s a trend towards keeping birds as pets, rather than breeding them in aviaries, partly due to council regulations and higher density living. This is where the increase in pet birds has occurred.” You can subscribe or buy the bi-monthly magazine at selected newsagents or pet shops and on the website.

Mobile Legal Service We will Come to You

• At Home • Hospital Visits • Coffee Shop

Do you have an up-to-date Will? Who will look after your affairs when you can’t? Have you taken steps to protect your assets? If your answers concern you, we can help you do something about it NOW Don’t put off to tomorrow what can be done today. Tomorrow may be too late!

SPECIALIST LAWYER – WILLS & ESTATES Call Tracey Smith Accredited Specialist (Succession Law) on (07) 5554 5487 so you won’t have to worry about tomorrow! www.smithlegal.com.au

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8 Seniors Gold Coast

Gold Coast

Monday, January 15, 2018 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 9

Talk ‘n’ thoughts Hurdles, highjumps and solutions

Group editor Seniors Newspapers network

SENIORS’ Newspaper seeks to reflect ageing in our modern world through stories that inform, entertain and engage us in the conversations that matter to us. Our regular TalknThoughts section provides an area to publish topical viewpoints and speak out on the issues that affect older adults. There’s no doubt that our generation is in the process of experiencing radical changes in areas such as health, longevity, communications and education. Our aim is talk about these changes, what they mean for us and how they can provide purpose

workplace. Throughout 2016 and 2017 Seniors Newspapers has published numerous articles detailing the situations and some practical solutions that are either on the way, or under discussion. On this subject, Dr Patterson told Seniors Newspapers: “I think you need a range of solutions because someone at 55 will have very different needs of someone who is 65. I would like to form a council of women who see this as a major issue and could invest into a property fund so that a person who has a bit of super can buy some equity so her rent is doable on the pension then years down the track. Women who have been working have all sorts of resources; they have networks, and when the time comes they may be able to use them.”

In 2018, we intend to keep our focus on this issue. We have also spoken with the experts in creative ageing, healthy ageing and profiled their initiatives. Women such as Dr Maggie Haertsch and Margret Meagher have initiated research and programs employing the arts to enhance older lives. Late last year we published a story on the report from the Benevolent Society, The Drivers of Ageism. The research aims to drive a positive change in economic, social, health and civic participation outcomes through a national long-term advocacy campaign (EveryAGE counts) tackling ageism and its impact, overall it sought to reveal the things we fear from ageing and older people. We at Seniors

Newspaper support The Benevolent Society call for "a radically different conversation about ageing." What are the directions you would like to governments move towards? Please email me: Gail.Forrer@ seniors newspaper.com.au.

Share your thoughts

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

TOENAIL CUTTING IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME FOR $30! 30 Professional and affordable, we are Australia’s premier toenail cutting service, established over 15 years ago. We come to your home cut and file your toenails and give you a little massage afterwards. Problem solved!

HAVE YOUR SAY: Email editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au or go online to www.seniorsnews.com.au.

For an appointment call:

1300 885 972

www.thetoenailpeople.com

Four ways you can reduce your electricity bill now. With yet another electricity price rise under our belts since July this year, the average Aussie household is now handing over $600 more per year on electricity alone, while small businesses have been hit even harder. We for one, think there are far better ways to spend six hundred dollars (and more), so we’ve put together a few tips that will help you to drastically reduce your electricity bill now, and protect you (and your back pocket) against future price hikes. 1. Check your hot water system Considered the most power-hungry part of the home, an inefficient hot water system could be burning a hole in your pocket. Start out by assessing if your hot water system is right for you. if the system is too small for your household, heating it multiple times a day to keep up with the demand gets costly. Secondly, dust the cobwebs off the back side of your electricity bill and check your hot water is on tariff 33. tariff 33 is a controlled load tariff, providing electricity for up to 18 hours a day at a discounted rate. if you’re not sure, one of our energy consultants can provide you with a free energy efficient consultation. 2. Shoot for the star rating its estimated forty percent of our energy usage goes to heating and cooling our homes, short of renovating your home to improve your passive airflow, fitting an energy efficient air conditioning unit to cool a dedicated space or a ducted system to manage the temperature of your whole home are both good options, and significantly cheaper than running multiple space heaters or coolers all day long.

3. Stay calm and get solar it goes without saying the most effective way to reduce your electricity bill significantly is to use your roof and draw power free from the sun. there has never been a better time to invest in solar. With generous government rebates still available, and a significant drop in the price of a good quality system, solar just makes good sense. Let’s break it down…a 5kW system will set you back about $5k, and the average home spends approx. $500 per quarter on electricity, that’s $2,000 per year that effectively off sets the cost of your PV system, dependant the way you consume electricity, so that’s potentially a payback period of under three years, and some serious savings now, and well in to the future. 4. Consider Battery storage if you’re like most of us, and spend most of your day at work, your home is running at minimum power consumption, which just also happens to be the optimum time to be harvesting solar energy to power your home. By adding a battery, you can store energy generated through the day to power your home into the evening when electricity is most expensive and your home is also at peak consumption. We are genuinely passionate about the benefits of a good quality energy solutions designed to deliver you real savings. if you’re ready to take control of your energy future, and you’re looking for honest, trustworthy advice from your local energy contractor, call SAE on 1300 18 20 50. To ﬁnd out more visit www.saegroup.com.au

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FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK GAIL FORRER

rather than confusion at our stage of life. It’s just a slogan, but I tend to agree with the saying “60 is the new 50” it generally depicts a more accurate version of our enhanced proclivity to live a longer, active and creative life. It’s a great trajectory, however, on the flip side, living longer, brings in a whole new set challenges, including housing, finances and extended working lives. Last year, Seniors newspaper spoke with our Age Discrimination Minister Dr Kay Patterson AO, she outlined a clear set of goals to achieve during her term of office. The goals included addressing the problems of Elder Abuse (in response to a report by the Law Reform Commission of Australia), Homelessness and Older Women and Willingness to Work together with age discrimination in the

10 Seniors Gold Coast

Neighbourhood News

Community

RiveR Glen Haven Where the living is easy Homes are selling quickly!

TO ALLOW for readers’ requests for the publication of more neighbourhood news, please keep notices short and to the point (100 word maximum). If you would like to submit a photo please ensure it is at least 180dpi or 500kb to 1mb in size and of faces, in a nice bright setting. The deadline for the February issue is January 31 Email Nicky or Chris: communitynotes @seniors newspaper.com.au.

Located within walking distance to shops, transport and town amenities, River Glen offers its residents: • Visiting doctor • 2 club houses & • Day tours recreational room • Social functions • Indoor bowls • Workshop area... • Craft area and much more • Gym • Pets ok • BBQ area • 2 pools • Visiting hairdresser • Village bus • Mail delivery • Library

GOLD COAST BRIDGE CLUB

River Glen Prelove homes start from

$220,000 to $274,000

Phone Andrea: 1800 656 025 | 07 3805 2155

30 Beutel Street, Waterford West, QLD Email: sales@riverglenhaven.com.au | Web: www.riverglenhaven.com.au

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For an appointment to view our homes in a relaxed & informal environment,

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, January 15, 2018

WE ARE located on the highway in Surfers Paradise will have a highly successful two-day beginners course on Sunday, February 4 and 11 at 10am–3pm. We will also brush up your skills or teach you new ones from our experienced teachers. We provide beginners classes and coaching at all levels and conduct bridge sessions

six days a week and two nights. We’re known as “the friendly club”. Call Cecily or Lynley 5538 3112 or 0418 984 856.

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 Citizens Centre, TE Peters Drive, Broadbeach. For more information call Betty 07 5580 7034.

END OF LIFE CHOICES

VOLUNTARY euthanasia options are discussed at meetings held quarterly on the Gold Coast. Next meeting, Feb 8. Call Elaine on 0421 796 713.

SOUTHPORT SENIOR CITIZENS

WE WELCOME all over 50’s to our activities. Membership is $8 per year with each activity costing a low $3. Our club motto is Finding Friends Fun & Fitness. You can find as at 2 Whitby St,

Southport. For activity times: www.southport seniorcitizens.com or call Annette 5537 1377.

NSAA

THE Gold Coast South-Twin Towns Branch of the National Servicemen’s Association of Australia. For those who served in any Forces of the Commonwealth between 1951–1972. Our next general meeting will be on Friday, January 19 at 10am EST in the RSL Sub Branch Anzac Room of the Twin Towns Resort. Call Tom Hughes, public officer, on 5513 0665.

PALS BROADBEACH

JOIN US for weekly barbecues, picnics, theatre, restaurants and outings at various locations around the Gold Coast. Singles and couples welcome. Our club is called PALS and we look forward to meeting you. Call Vicky 0412 783 907.

COOLUM LIONESS CLUB

WE WILL again be having our Australia Day Breakfast on the Beach at

Neighbourhood News

Monday, January 15, 2018 seniorsnews.com.au

Tickle Park Coolum Beach. On Friday, January 26 from 7–9.30am. This will be followed by Coolum Lions Club’s Australia Day program with games, entertainment and a talent quest.

PROBUS CLUBS ■ SORRENTO

OUR club celebrated their Christmas luncheon at the beautiful Marriott Resort in Surfers Paradise. Our growing club has great functions each month like coffee mornings, lunches, trips and excellent speakers. Come join us. Call Doreen on 5526 6126.

■ BURLEIGH HEADS LADIES

WE MEET meet on the third Wednesday of the month at Burleigh Heads Life Saving Club. Morning tea is enjoyed at 10am followed by a meeting at 10.30am. There is always an interesting speaker. On the fourth Wednesday a coach trip or social activity is enjoyed. An opportunity to make new friends. Inquiries to Peg on 0428 903 715 or Glenda 5576 0303.

■ BURLEIGH WATERS

RETIRED or semi-retired

■ TWIN TOWNS

men are invited to join us at club meetings, 10am on the third Monday of each month at Burleigh Waters Community Centre, 131 Christine Ave. Nominally a men’s club, but wives are very welcome to share the club’s fellowship, friendship and fun. Call Brian 5520 6332 or John 5520 6661.

■ NORTH GOLD COAST

WE ARE open to membership, both men and women are welcome. We meet the first Monday of every month and our activities calendar is varied, exciting and offers something for everyone. Join us for coffee and cake and meet some of our fabulous members. Call David on 5514 2196.

VIEW CLUBS ■ BURLEIGH PALM BEACH

OUR club meets at Treetops Tavern, West Burleigh on the third Tuesday of the month at 10 am. The first meeting in 2018 will be on February 20. Details call Ros on 5520 5821.

■ COOLANGATTA TWEED

Gold Coast

SOCIAL GATHERING: Cr Dawn Crichlow OAM with a U3A Gold Coast Inc member.

MEMBERS can look forward to new activities and functions in 2018 when the VIEW year commences on Thursday, February 22 (please note date change). This will be the Annual General Meeting when subscriptions are due and elections will be held. Members call Elaine on 5524 4461 with apologies or for further information, call Janice on 5524 5707.

U3A ■ GOLD COAST

IT’S the last chance to register and go in the $75 early registration draw at 2pm Australia Fair office, Thursday, January 18. The office is opening earlier on

Monday, January 15 at 10am–2pm because of the Commonwealth Games, however classes don’t resume until Monday, February 28. Call 5591 6671.

■ BROADBEACH

WE WELCOME new members who are over 50 and looking to continue their learning in a fun and social group setting. Take a look at our website: U3ABroadbeach.com to get a flavour of our broad range of courses, activities and excursions and advice on how to join us. We offer the opportunity to make new friends and develop interests.

ENROLMENT Days are on January 23 and 24 at 4 Boyd St, Tugun, all welcome. Come along and join in healthy mind and body activities including tai chi, qi gong, yoga, stretch and dance and more. We have classes in French, Italian, German and Spanish. Classes are held at Tweed Heads, Coolangatta, Tugun and Palm Beach. For more: www.u3atwintowns, Facebook, call 5534 7333 or email u3atwintowns@ gmail.com.

■ TWEED COAST

WE HAVE more than 40 classes to choose from, writing, tai chi, yoga, languages, cards, mah-jong, history, painting to name a few. Join for only $40 for the whole year to attend as many classes as you like. Sign On/Open day is on Thursday, January 18 at The Seventh Day Adventist Hall, 85 Philip St, Chinderah at 10am. You can talk to our group leaders about their classes.Timetable: www.tweedcoast.u3a net.org.au/wp or call Val 0421 686 310.

BURLEIGH CLUB TAKES SQUARE DANCING TO THE

Seniors 11

COMMUNITY

2018 promises to be the year when the community is reminded that square dancing is alive and well, having been introduced into Australia more than 60 years ago. Free Come and Try sessions through participating Gold Coast libraries have been arranged to give people the chance to experience this fun activity in a relaxed environment. Register for the Come and Try sessions at Robina Library on Monday, February 12 from 1.30pm or Elanora Library the following Monday at 1.30pm. Burleigh Squares is also accepting a new intake of learner and refresher square dancers for it Saturday night classes from February 17 and through March. Maher Hall, 42 Matilda St, from 7pm. www.isquaredance. net or call Karen on 0415 832 137.

NERANG SENIOR CITIZENS

WE PLAY cash bingo on Wednesday starting 9am, indoor bowls, craft and needlework, quilting, cards and bus excursions. Call Gail 0414 274 416, Orchid Society. Contact: 5596 6400 or Cheryl on 0407 373 149. Club house on the cnr of Mylor and Ferry Sts, Nerang.

$ 10

Lunches

7 Days a Week Conditions Apply

BISTRO

11.30-3.00pm & 5.30-9.00pm

Breakfast le now availab Sat / Sun 8 - 11am

LinDfieLD RD

siR JOhn OVeRALL DR

We ARe heRe

8 SIR JOHN OVERALL DRIVE, HELENSVALE QLD 4212 PHONE: 07 5573 3788

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new Trading hours

12 Seniors Gold Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, January 15, 2018

What’s on yvonne.gardiner@apn.com.au

BURLEIGH WALK

JOIN CoastEd on an interpretive walk through Burleigh Headland National Park on Friday, January 19, from 8–10.30am, and learn about some of the history, ecology and management of the area. A must for locals who would like to learn more about their local area. CoastEd provides an opportunity to learn about coastal areas from qualified, award-winning environmental scientists and industry professionals. Sessions are available to the community such as Scout groups and Probus clubs. Morning tea and take-home resources will be provided after the walk. Meet at the undercover area at the top of Goodwin Tce, at the national park entrance. Cost $5. Limited spaces available and bookings are required. Call Maggie Muurmans on 07 5552 8823 or email coasted@griffith.edu.au.

ROWLES SHOW

THE legend is back and playing all your favourites. John Rowles will perform live at the Southport Yacht Club on January 20 and you’re all invited. Topping charts in the UK, New Zealand and Australia throughout his career, John’s show is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Don’t miss your chance to see the crooner and

CULTURE OF CHINA

SHEN Yun returns with its trademark blend of breathtaking choreography, sumptuous colours, unrivalled athleticism and powerful storytelling on January 20 and 21. All-new works premiering for 2018, with orchestral accompaniment at every performance. Shen Yun brings to life the glorious culture of ancient China, lost under communist rule, by reaching back across 5000 years for its artistic inspiration. Discover the extraordinary vitality of one of the world’s oldest art forms, classical Chinese dance and its remarkable pageantry. At the Gold Coast Arts Centre, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise. Book with ticketbox@thearts centregc.com.au.

FINE FOODS

IF YOU happen to live in or around Mudgeeraba, or plan to visit, and like the idea of filling your fridge with delicious, farm-fresh produce, prepare to be excited. Instead of travelling a few suburbs over for your market fix, you can get it all on your doorstep at the new weekly Mudgeeraba Fine Foods and Farmers’ Market. Every Saturday from 6-11.30am, Mudgeeraba Showgrounds will be

brimming with stalls full of beautiful, fresh produce, meats, flowers, delicious foods and more. You’ll also be supporting local farmers and businesses, so that’s win-win. Pay a visit on Saturday, January 20 and 27, to Mudgeeraba Showgrounds, 115 Mudgeeraba Rd, Mudgeeraba.

BURLEIGH PRO

THE 2018 Burleigh Pro has been further bolstered with an additional day added to the world-famous event. The four-day event runs January 25–28 and will attract some of the best surfers in the world who are battling it out for the valuable World Surf League Qualifying Series points and prize purse. The natural amphitheatre which is Burleigh Heads is the best spot to catch all the action as some of the world’s best surfers go head to head. Venue at Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads. Details at www.worldsurfleague. com/events.

AUSTRALIA DAY

SOUTHPORT Yacht Club is the place to be for Australia Day on Friday, January 26. From noon–4pm guests can enjoy live entertainment by Spin and there’ll be Aussie raffles and prizes for best dressed. Celebrate all things Australian and enjoy what our country has to offer such as barbecues and drinks on the water. Lunch is available in the Waterfront Restaurant overlooking the picturesque Gold Coast Broadwater.

Bookings are essential. To secure a place, call 07 5591 3500.

WHITNEY TRIBUTE

SHOWTIME Australia presents the critically acclaimed live concert honouring the talent, music and memory of Whitney Houston. Featuring the breathtaking vocals of Belinda Davids, accompanied by a fabulous six-piece live band and dancers, this is a beautifully crafted tribute to one of the world’s most revered singers. The two-hour production will take you on a heartfelt musical journey through Houston’s greatest hits. The Greatest Love of All: The Whitney Houston Show has already wowed audiences across the US, Canada, UK, Europe, South Africa, Asia, UAE, Australia and New Zealand. Doors open 7pm with the show starting at 8pm in the theatre on the casino level of The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach. Ticket prices from $79.90. Book at www.star.com.au

FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY

COMING into Fashion: A Century of Photography at Conde Nast celebrates some of the most iconic images from the past century of fashion. Conde Nast, the powerhouse publisher of Vogue, Vanity Fair and Glamour, has opened its photography archive to the public to create this stunning exhibition. The collection of images, selected by photography curator Nathalie Herschdorfer,

TRIBUTE SHOW: Showtime Australia is showcasing songstress Whitney Houston, through the breathtaking vocals of Belinda Davids. PHOTO: DNA PHOTOGRAPHERS

shows the sharp contrast in the first fashion photographs from the early 20th century compared to the modern day. Also in the exhibition is a selection of vintage couture fashion from The Darnell Collection. At the Gold Coast City Gallery, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise, now to February 18. Call 07 5588 4078 for details.

KAYAK ADVENTURE

JOIN Gold Coast Paddlesports for an exciting three-hour city kayaking adventure. On this fully guided tour you’ll get to discover the hidden backwaters of Surfers Paradise and kayak through areas that some locals are not even aware of. Experience an awesome mix of amazing views and a vast array of untouched natural habitats and wildlife. Along the journey you’ll get to enjoy a freshly made coffee and a bite to eat at a waterfront cafe. All kayaking equipment is provided, along with a safety briefing and friendly

professional service. Centrally located on TE Peters Drive, Broadbeach, behind the Gold Coast Convention Centre and minutes’ walk from Broadbeach North Tram Station. Call 0450 092 882 to book.

ROCK LEGENDS

LEGENDS of Australian Rock GANGgajang perform at Soundlounge on February 16. From its birth in clubs and pubs to its first international steps, Australian music was really coming of age. Against this backdrop of increased confidence and global aspiration came GANGgajang who released their self-titled debut album in 1985, with the singles Gimme Some Lovin’, Giver of Life and House of Cards quickly climbing the charts to become part of the music revolution reinventing the Australian sound. Tickets $30. Venue is the Currumbin RSL (upstairs) overlooking Currumbin estuary, 165 Duringan St, Currumbin, Gold Coast. Book on currumbinrsl. com.au.

Bringing Back Memories Easy Listening From the ‘50s to Today

Enjoy the hits of ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s and today – plus community updates, comprehensive news and talkback programs you won’t want to miss.

Less talk, more music. Tune in or listen online now! 07 5520 8888 | 4crb.com

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JOURNALIST YVONNE GARDINER

rockstar in action on stage. The price includes a two-course dinner at 5pm and the show kicks off at 7.30pm. Limited seats, so book by calling the yacht club, 1 MacArthur Parade, Main Beach, on 07 5591 3500.

Gold Coast

Monday, January 15, 2018 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 13

Travel

Top 10 rooftop bars ANN Rickard has taken an elevator to many a rooftop bar around the world. She gives us 10 of her favourite sky-high places to slowly sip a martini and take in the views. ■ Prague CONTAINED and intimate, the rooftop bar at the Hotel U Prince in Prague’s Old Town overlooks the historic square and surrounding handsome buildings. ■ Shanghai WITH a view of Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, Sir Elly’s Terrace

Bar at the Peninsula Hotel is a pinch-meam-I-really-here? bar. With its slick timber and orange/red furnishing and the signature champagne cocktails, it’s the epitome of casual sophistication. ■ Singapore LANTERN at The Fullerton Bay Hotel is still a favourite with locals. A Passion Sling cocktail and a basket of truffle fries go down well. The night views of dazzling Marina Bay Sands call for a selfie. ■ Brisbane THE Soleil Pool Bar at Rydges Hotel at South

What’s Going On?

Are there exciting things happening in your local senior community?

Bank might not qualify as one of the highest rooftop bars in the world …okay, we admit it’s balcony bar... but with its night-time, glowing poolside ambience, it’s a perfect end-of-day pitstop after exploring the city. ■ Bangkok WHAT can we say? This SkyBar on top of the Lebua State Tower is the mother of all the rooftop bars in the world (our opinion, you may disagree) and certainly one of the highest. There’s an inspired cocktail list for all tastes but you should try a

Hangovertini, created when the cast of Hangover 2 was filming at Lebua State Tower. ■ Hanoi THIS one is so new we haven’t had a chance to try it yet, but it’s on our list. The Twilight Sky bar on the roof of the newly opened La Siesta Central Hotel in Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter has a 270-degree outlook over the city, and unobstructed views of Hoan Kiem Lake. ■ Lucerne EVERYWHERE in Switzerland is a view but from the 360 Roof Top Bar in Lucerne you are

high above the rooftops with panoramic vistas and the whole of Lucerne at your whim. ■ Kuala Lumpur TALK about on top of the world. SkyBar on level 33 of the Trader’s Hotel in this bustling city makes you feel you’ve arrived. The cosy cabana booths and long blue pool are one thing, but it is the views of the Petronas Twin Towers that steal the show way up there. ■ Melbourne OKAY, we concede it might not be one of the highest or most trendy rooftop bars, and it

doesn’t even have a bar or barman, but the garden space on top of the Fraser Place Hotel in the city gives wide views of Melbourne’s skyline, and here’s the really good bit: guests can take their own tipple up there. ■ Hong Kong FELIX Bar, on top of the Peninsular hotel, is known by every Hong Kong local whether or not they have been there. Designed by Philippe Starck, it has spectacular views through floor-to-ceiling windows of the Victoria Harbour skyline.

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14 Seniors Gold Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, January 15, 2018

, 21st October 2018

Top End, Kakadu & Ghan Extended Expedition $5490 P/P-TS*

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Monday, January 15, 2018 seniorsnews.com.au

Gold Coast

Seniors 15

A Singapore food fling A journey through fabulous flowers, foliage and fodder SINGAPORE is often the logical stopover on a long journey. But the tiny island country is worth more than a few hours in the airport. It is a nation that strives to live up to its potential. It doesn’t do anything by halves – not even the weather. It’s either hot or really hot, never cold. The people are polite and helpful. The streets are clean, and besides getting a whiff of the pungent durian fruit, there are no smells redolent of sewage and raw food spoiling from being out in the sun too long that is a familiar sensation when travelling in Asian countries. But the two things closest to my heart and that Singapore excels in, are food and flowers.

FOOD

Across the island there are 38 Michelin-starred restaurants – 30 with a one-star rating, seven that feature two stars, and one three-star establishment. It is also the first South-East Asian country, and the fourth in wider Asia, to be rated by the Michelin Guide. ■ LAU PA SAT Tucked in the heart of the financial district, Lau Pa Sat is an unassuming heritage-listed building. In a sea of skyscrapers and unusual architecture, Lau Pa Sat is a colonial gem – fretted metal work, columns and soaring arches – but inside the labyrinthine octagonal building is a hawker centre, offering cheap and cheerful cuisine. When the businessmen have packed up their briefcases and headed home for the night, the street comes alive. The road blocks come out, along with hundreds of folding tables and plastic chairs, and vendors claiming their satay is the best in town. Flames dance high in the night while smells of flame-cooked meat hang in the air and the burble of voices brings the street to life. With a plate full of meat on a stick, coolish Tiger beer and 20 gyozas for the bargain price of $10, we feasted. ■ ACCORHOTELS SINGAPORE FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL This was the reason I was in Singapore. Hotel chain AccorHotels looked

at its collection of 40 restaurants and bars across the island and devised a plan to showcase the gastronomy and talent of its 100-plus chefs. A nine-day food festival was born, offering “culinary creations, masterclasses and delicious drinks”, as AccorHotels Asia Pacific chief operating officer Michael Issenberg said. The culmination of the festival was the Super Sunday Brunch on Sentosa Island – a human-made luxury playground where Singaporeans go to relax. Billed as the “most extravagant spread that you will ever experience”, the brunch lived up to its hype. I’ve yet to meet a cheese or charcuterie board I didn’t like, and this one put all others to shame. The variety of cheeses from sharp and firm to pungent and veined to practically liquid form was impressive, as was the selection of cured meat. There was an endless supply of salmon, smoked tuna, prawns, crabs and lobsters, drawing the eye with a collection of orange and red hues that would rival a Dulux paint chart. Out on the patio there was a barbecue cooking up whole suckling pigs and what looked like the entire hindquarters of a side of wagyu beef. Curries and the iconic chilli crab and seafood spaghetti laksa dishes were on offer, as were Peking duck pancakes. But the show-stopper was dessert. It was not just a table laden with sugary and chocolatey confections,

FOOD THEATRICS: Hen’s egg meal from JAAN, Singapore.

but an entire room. I was like Augustus Gloop in Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. With a chocolatier on staff, the after-dinner creations were a work of art and it seemed sacrilegious to cut into some of the immaculately presented cakes. The Super Sunday Brunch will set you back $230 for the non-alcoholic option and $268–288 with champagne. ■ RACINES On the fifth floor of the Sofitel Singapore City Centre, the restaurant and hotel only opened in the first week of October. Meaning “roots” in French, Racines showcases its French and Chinese culinary roots – but don’t mistake it for a fusion restaurant. There are distinct Chinese and French dishes on the menu. ■ JAAN JAAN restaurant is a study in theatre.

ALL ABOARD FOR A RELAXING JOURNEY

10th February 2018 Kippa Ring Rail Motor Trip Travel from Roma St to Kippa Ring Station by 2000 Class Series “Silver Bullet rail motor. A run up to Glass House Mountains has also been scheduled for this trip. 3rd March 2018 North Coast Steam Train Tour Board the first steam train tour of the year with ARHS QLD from Roma Street to Palmwoods. Coach trip then to Mapleton or to Wildlife HQ at Woombye. 19th – 21st April 2018 Long Distance Rail Motor NSW to Brisbane Rail Motor 620/720 will depart from Maitland to Roma Street with an overnight stop at Grafton. Seats Limited. Accommodation included. Don’t Miss Out.

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Vanessa Horstman

The hen’s egg with caviar, mushrooms and cheese-crusted brioche comes as a closed earthenware egg that is opened in front of you with a waft of smokiness. It’s the runny eggs and toast soldiers of childhood taken to a new level of elegance.

GARDENS

Within the heart of Singapore is a sprawling oasis of greenery. Gardens by the Bay is three distinct garden districts that combine to make a stunning tribute to horticulture. The Supertree Grove and OCBC Skyway are visible on the skyline, strikingly lit up at night for

PHOTO: NICHOLAS EE

a light and sound show. The vertical gardens are more than just visual wonders – 11 of the 18 Supertrees are embedded with green technologies like photovoltaic cells to harvest solar energy. A short stroll from the Supertrees are two massive glass domes, home to the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. The Flower Dome is the largest greenhouse in the world, according to the 2015 Guinness World Records. It’s as big as 75 Olympic swimming pools and has a vast number of flower displays from the Mediterranean and semi-arid regions. Next door is the Cloud

Forest. A mountain of greenery ensconced in swirling mists, the showpiece being a 35m indoor waterfall (again the world’s tallest). Walkways wind around the mountain, with the tourists walking along the paths like ants on an anthill. There’s an elevator to the top and near-flat paths and escalators for the journey down, making it easy to traverse for all abilities. The Flower Dome and Cloud Forest are open 9am–9pm daily, entry is $28. The writer was a guest of AccorHotels and Brisbane Airport Corporation.

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16 Seniors Gold Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, January 15, 2018

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Monday, January 15, 2018 seniorsnews.com.au

Local Stories

Gold Coast

Seniors 17

Rosies needs your help Step up – more people are struggling on the Gold Coast Yvonne Gardiner

AMID the glitz and glamour of the Gold Coast, there are people on the streets, families escaping domestic violence, men and women with sickness who can’t make ends meet, workers who can’t find a job… A simple change in circumstances can put families in the ranks of the disadvantaged and needy. Rosies area co-ordinator on the Gold Coast, Kathleen Vlasic, sees people in need every day, and is thankful for the overwhelming support of volunteers and donors in her community. Kathleen started Rosies drop-in centre at Southport nine years ago, where people have access to showers, haircuts, drinks and food. “We put out the hand of friendship. It’s very important,” she said. “If we don’t talk to them, we don’t know where they’re at. “There’s a lot of mental

illness out there. “It’s not our place to judge. We don’t question who you are or what you’ve done.” Kathleen, aged 70, oversees a band of 266 volunteers at Southport, Surfers and Nerang. They help out at the Southport courthouse, run daytime and night-time outreaches, and visit the women’s prison. “I think there’s more needy than ever,” Kathleen says. “There’s a lot of families falling through the cracks.” Rosies receives no government funding. “We are wholly and solely dependent on the community to keep us going,” Kathleen said. “The Gold Coast community is just fabulous. Rotary has been very generous. “We get our food donated. People know what we need. “We go out at night and take sleeping bags, blankets and toiletries.”

VOLUNTEERS: Rosies Gold Coast volunteer Richard and co-ordinator Kathleen Vlasic provide a helping hand at the Southport drop-in centre. PHOTO: YVONNE GARDINER

If Kathleen were to have one wish granted for Rosies, she would ask for a larger drop-in centre. “We need a bigger space, not hidden in the boondocks, somewhere easy to access – halfway between Southport and Surfers Paradise,” she said. Established on the Gold

Coast in 1987, Rosies now helps thousands of people around Queensland every year, providing friendship with hospitality to those who have been abandoned, marginalised or socially isolated. One way to show support for Rosies Friends on the Street is to take

part in this year’s SkyPoint Sea to Sky Q1 Stair Challenge on Sunday, March 11. The fundraising target is more than $100,000. Participants run or walk up 77 gruelling flights of stairs in the name of charity. Activ8Change event director Steve Corrie said,

on average, participants took 18 to 20 minutes to climb the 1331 steps to the top. But it won’t be easy to beat the record of six minutes and 41 seconds set by Mark Bourne in 2016. To register, visit stairchallengeaustralia. com.au/gold-coastchallenge.

Take a journey through an amazing ancient land Yvonne Gardiner

BY THE time you read this, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary on the Gold Coast will have opened one of its biggest and most exciting attractions. Lost Valley at the National Trust’s crowd-pulling sanctuary will encompass five hectares of stunning rainforest and will take visitors on a journey through the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. Waiting in the Lost Valley will be exotic species like friendly ring-tail lemurs, cotton-top tamarin monkeys, the red panda, capybaras, free-flying birds and exotic reptiles. The sanctuary’s technical services manager and project leader for Lost Valley Ken Spiller was busy building cages and pens when Seniors spoke to him a fortnight before the opening on Boxing Day. Lost Valley precinct has been designed to provide easy walking access on elevated boardwalks through the rainforest. Visitors will be transported to an environment that existed millions of years ago, with

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary project manager Ken Spiller has overseen the creation of the attraction Lost Valley.

some of the world’s most unique and distinctive flora and wildlife. “It’s been a real challenge to do the Lost Valley with the limited budget ($3 million),” Ken said. “We’ve pulled out tons and tons of debris, and put new plants in and modernised the area. “We’ve built it out of nice materials. It’s going to be awesome.” Ken began work at the sanctuary three-and-a-half years ago. “They employed me to look after upgrades to the sanctuary,” he said.

“Before that I was working at theme parks for Warner Village for 33 years. “I was the project manager who put Movie World together.” So Ken is used to overseeing big projects and in the past has had to juggle four or five of them at the same time. What has impressed him at the sanctuary is the high level of community involvement. “We’ve got 350 full-time staff and 550 volunteers and the bulk of them are seniors,” he said. “We’ve had to put extra

EXOTIC WILDLIFE: Lemurs will be among the exotic creatures occupying the Lost Valley.

staff on to look after the new animals. “Hopefully Lost Valley is going to bring big numbers into the park. “Animal parks are going to do extremely well in the future.” At 64 years of age, Ken’s aiming to stick around to see the success of his projects.

“I’m now working on the next improvement and that’ll be a free-flight bird area,” he said. WILDLIFE WONDERLAND Voted one of the Gold Coast’s most popular tourist destinations, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is the crown jewel of the National Trust of Australia properties.

It’s dedicated to conserving Australia’s indigenous, natural and historic heritage and culture. Open year-round from 8am-5pm daily (excluding Anzac Day and Christmas), Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is at 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin.

18 Seniors Gold Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, January 15, 2018

Wellbeing Benefits of tai chi Ann Rickard

EARLY each morning, all over the country you can see people enjoying the benefits of tai chi. It makes you feel serene even though you are not a participant. The graceful movements of this ancient Chinese practice are carried out so slowly, there is a quiet beauty about them.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF TAI CHI?

In China, it is believed that tai chi can delay ageing and prolong life, increase flexibility, strengthen muscles and tendons, and aid in the treatment of heart disease, high blood pressure, arthritis, digestive disorders, skin diseases, depression, cancer and many other

illnesses. Unfortunately, there hasn’t been a good deal of scientific evidence to support these claims. In a special study of tai chi called a meta-analysis, where many studies on one subject are reviewed, the author concludes that although there is some evidence to support the positive effects of tai chi on health, fitness and balance, many of the studies are limited by small numbers of subjects and wide variation in the type and duration of tai chi used. Bearing these limitations in mind, here are some of the documented benefits.

BALANCE AND FALL PREVENTION

Most of the research on tai chi has been done in older individuals in the area of balance and fall

prevention. This area of research is important because fall-related injuries are the leading cause of death from injury and disability among older adults. One of the most serious fall injuries is hip fracture: one-half of all older adults hospitalised for hip fracture never regain their former level of function. Because tai chi movements are slow and deliberate with shifts of body weight from one leg to the other in co-ordination with upper body movements (sometimes with one leg in the air), it challenges balance and many have long assumed it helps improve balance and reduce fall frequency. This assumption has been credited and strongly supported by some research. One study compared

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TAI CHI: The graceful movements of this ancient Chinese practice are carried out so slowly, they have a quiet beauty about them. PHOTO: NULLPLUS

men age 65 and older who had more than 10 years of experience practising tai chi and no involvement in any other regular sports and physical activity, with similar-aged men who had not practised tai chi or any other physical activities (they were sedentary). It was found that the men who studied tai chi performed better on tests of balance, flexibility and

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cardiovascular function. In another study involving 22 men and women aged 22 to 76 years with mild balance disorders, it was found that eight weeks of tai chi training significantly improved function on a standard balance test (known as the Romberg Test). In an interesting twist on studies of falling, researchers found that the frequency of fear of falling was reduced from 56 per cent to 31 per cent in a large group of adults 70 years and older who practised tai chi regularly. Confidence about not falling, and selfconfidence in general, may be an unintended benefit of tai chi but one that is certainly worth pursuing. In a similar tai chi study of older adults, 54 per cent of the subjects who practised tai chi attributed their improved sense of confidence to improved balance. “When mental as well as physical control is perceived to be enhanced, with a generalised sense of improvement in overall

wellbeing, older persons’ motivation to continue exercising also increases,” the authors concluded. Tai chi might be beneficial for everyone, but it is especially good for the senior. If nothing else, it can help with balance which in turn helps with preventing falls, the enemy of seniors. Studies have shown tai chi can reduce falls in seniors by up to 45 per cent and a recent study in The New England Journal of Medicine found tai chi particularly effective for people with Parkinson’s. Anyone, regardless of age or fitness level, can join in, and early morning is probably the best time to enjoy it.

BENEFITS OF TAI CHI

■ Enhanced balance ■ Better flexibility ■ More stamina ■ Less stress, better wellbeing ■ Stronger muscle strength ■ Reduced risk of falls ■ Lower blood pressure

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FORGET the myths around freezing and defrosting meats: we have the answers to some age-old questions. CSIRO senior food microbiologist Cathy Moir gives us the tips we need to make sure we stay happy and healthy. Best way to defrost meat ■ Plan your meals ahead and stick to defrosting in the fridge. ■ Keep your food cold while it’s defrosting to help slow the growth of microbes. ■ Avoid defrosting on the bench, particularly in warmer temperatures, as the microbes on the outside of the meat will probably be growing while the inside of the meat could still be frozen. Should raw meat be washed? There is no need to wash raw meat before it is prepared because you are going to cook it. “The reason is you are going to cook the meat, so that will kill any micro-organisms on the surface of the meat,” Mrs Moir said.

Can I refreeze? ■ You can refreeze food if it has been defrosted in the fridge, and hasn’t spent too long sitting in the fridge. So if, for example, you have steak which was defrosted in the fridge last night and then you get a better offer for dinner tonight, the steak can go back from the fridge to the freezer to be defrosted again on another day. ■ It’s the same rule for leftovers. ■ You will lose the quality of the food by freezing, defrosting and then freezing again. Keeping leftovers ■ Put them in the fridge as soon as possible after the steam has run off the food. “Within 20 to 30 minutes, that is enough time for the heat to have come out of the food and it’s stopped steaming,” Mrs Moir said. “Put it in a container, cover it and put it in the fridge.’’ ■ You can put food in the fridge while it is still steaming, but you may get condensation on the lid which will then drip onto

the food. Mrs Moir warns: “The longer you leave food on the bench at room temperature, the longer you are allowing any microbes in that food to grow.” ■ The food can be put in an uncovered container in the fridge straight away and then later covered up once it has cooled down. Storage ■ Whether the food is in the freezer or fridge, the rule of thumb is keep raw meat products separate from food that is ready to eat. This is done to keep microbes from the raw meat cross-contaminating other food. ■ The type of storage isn’t an issue, but keeping food covered ensures it is protected from the fridge environment and avoids cross-contamination. ■ If you have a meat compartment in your fridge, then you should be using it. ■ When defrosting, use the meat compartment or put the meat on a covered plate to capture any juices from the meat.

Seniors 19

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Gold Coast

No Gap Eye Surgery At The Eye Care Clinic, our eye surgeons and specialists care enough to see you as people, not just as someone with a problem. Dr. Svoboda and Dr. Lamont personally see you all the way through your procedure - right from the first visit till they are totally satisfied all is well. Nor does this high level of care mean that you are charged an arm and a leg. We actively work to keep the costs as low as possible, and provide services including age related macular degeneration, cataract surgery, glaucoma, lid tumours, diabetic eye disease, iritis, laser surgery, dry eyes and lid malpositions. Those who are insured also enjoy the cost saving benefit of our No Gap Policy. What’s more, there’s no need to travel out of the local area for the actual surgery as our surgeons operate in Tweed Heads. When you want someone that takes a sight better care of both you and your health, ask for The Eye Care Clinic. You’ll see we really do care.

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Monday, January 15, 2018 seniorsnews.com.au

Dr Meon Lamont

Aged Care Services Now servicing Gold Coast*

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20 Seniors Gold Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, January 15, 2018

HYPERBARIC OXYGEN TREATMENT – FAQS pressure has been used to assist the healing of wounds for more than four decades. It enhances the body’s natural healing process by allowing the patient to breathe in 100% oxygen in a specially designed chamber, at a therapeutic pressure greater than 2ata.

One innovative treatment making a very real impact is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy “HBOT” which is giving real hope and improved quality of life to millions of diabetes and cancer suffers in Australia and around the world. The top-class multi-place chamber at the Wesley Centre for Hyperbaric Medicine is much in demand. So much so in fact that Australia’s largest, private and fully comprehensive hyperbaric facility performs more than 4500 treatments in each year for patients all over Queensland and Northern NSW.

Generally, oxygen is transported around the body only by your red blood cells but HBOT allows the oxygen to be dissolved into the plasma, central nervous system fluids, the lymph glands, even the bone, and can therefore be carried to areas where circulation has been reduced so oxygen can reach the damaged tissues and support and enhance the body’s healing process. The increased oxygen also improves the ability of the white blood cells to fight bacteria, reduces swelling and allows new blood vessels to grow more rapidly in the infected area.

How does Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy work? The therapeutic use of oxygen under

Where is the most impressive work done? Most of the scientific studies surrounding the advantages of Hyperbaric Oxygen

Therapy look at the benefits to diabetes sufferers who battle with wound healing and cancer survivors who are experiencing the chronic effects of radiation treatment. And for good reason as these are the cases that present most often in practice. Each year more than 4400 diabetics in this country have a limb amputated but HBOT can help treat wounds that refuse to heal by ensuring oxygen, blood and nutrition can access the site that needs it. During radiation, many of the smallest of blood vessels may be damaged or destroyed, which then limits the access of ingredients necessary for healing such as oxygen, antibiotics, nutrition, vitamins and growth factors. HBOT can help supply more oxygen to damaged tissue, reducing scarring and increasing stem cell activity.

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We are fortunate to live in a time where the wonders of modern medicine are too tangible to ignore. Not a day goes by without an important discovery made, a life-saving procedure performed or vital medications produced as we constantly strive to live longer, disease-free lives.

Wellbeing

Monday, January 15, 2018 seniorsnews.com.au

Gold Coast

Assistance for families

Seniors 21

Having friends there when things break down Yvonne Gardiner

DOMESTIC violence forces hundreds of partners and children in Australia to flee their homes. Offering support in these crises is the charity Friends with Dignity. Without fanfare and usually anonymously, FWD volunteers respond to urgent requests to set up entire households with furnishings, whitegoods, toiletries, clothing, toys – anything that a displaced family may need. The donations co-ordinator for FWD on the Gold Coast, Lynne McCleish, believes all children deserve to live safely, and be guaranteed a new beginning. One in five children witness and/or experience violence at home, and the assistance provided by charities such as Friends with Dignity

gives children the opportunity to ease into new schools following family upheaval. Lynne, who retired on the Gold Coast eight years ago, has worked with FWD for nearly two years. “I became interested in supporting FWD after attending a charity fundraiser and hearing survivors of domestic violence speak about their experience,” she said. “The role involves replying to donation offers and sending them out to FWD co-ordinators and team leaders. “I’m also the team leader on the Gold Coast to set up sanctuaries for survivors.” Working nationally with refuges and crisis centres, FWD provides practical support to survivors of domestic violence, helping men, women and children

rebuild their lives with dignity, purpose and hope. “Sanctuaries ensure survivors have the household items required to live with dignity,” Lynne said. “We work with the community to source pre-loved and new household items which are then used to set up and furnish their new home. “We always need things like laundry products, that’s one thing we just don’t get enough of, and new, small electrical items,” she said. “The things we need in the short-term are always on the list on Facebook. “Certainly the demand is growing. We’re just the tip of the iceberg – there’s a lot more families in need out there.” FWD provides school supplies to hundreds of children living in refuges

SUPPORT: Lynne McCleish helps out families displaced by domestic violence in her role as donations co-ordinator for Friends with Dignity on the Gold Coast. PHOTO: YVONNE GARDINER

as part of its annual Back to School Drive. It works in Brisbane, Ipswich, the Gold Coast and Newcastle, with expansion plans in progress. “There’s plenty of roles. People might have had experience in their working life that could be really valuable to us,” Lynne said. “The work is very rewarding because of what we can achieve. They could come and help us at sanctuaries or do a fundraising drive themselves, make up a hamper in a women’s group or something. They can also attend our charity

fundraisers on the Gold Coast. “They’ll never meet the survivors of domestic violence so safety is not a problem; we don’t actually meet the families being helped. “We have fun, making beds, decorating, having morning tea – a couple of hours and it’s all done. “Some retired ladies make quilts for us, and we also have links with the Labrador Men’s Shed and a retirement home. They’re making some rugs. “We help each other, because they enjoy making things. “Age-wise, a lot of our

volunteers are in their 70s and retired because they’ve got the time to do it.” Lynne would like somewhere on the Gold Coast to store donations, especially furniture, if anyone has an empty shed to spare. Feedback from one family helped by FWD shows the extent of their gratitude: “The legacy this will leave with this family – that they matter, that their wellbeing matters – will live with them forever and make a difference to how they see the world.” For how our senior community can help, visit: friendswithdignity.org.au.

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22 Seniors Gold Coast

Advertising Feature

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, January 15, 2018

STAY AT HOME

Support and care services for aged care myagedcare.com.au Australian Government

ELIGIBILITY

You may be eligible for aged care services if you are an older person and you: ■ Need assistance to complete everyday tasks ■ Are a person with special needs ■ Have an illness or dementia ■ Need short-term assistance to help restore your health Eligibility for help at home services is determined though an aged care assessment. To find out if you need an assessment and if you are eligible for these help at home services, phone My Aged Care on 1800 200 422.

ASSESSMENT FOR ENTRY LEVEL HOME SUPPORT To find out if you need an

assessment and if you are eligible for help at home services, you should phone My Aged Care on 1800 200 422. The My Aged Care staff will ask you questions about your current needs and circumstances so they can refer you to appropriate aged care services. You will need to have a Regional Assessment Service assessment before you can be approved for care. Find out more about a RAS assessment.

SUPPORTING INDEPENDENCE

The aim of the CHSP is to help older people live as independently as possible – with a focus on working with you, rather than doing for you. It is about building on your strengths, capacity and goals to help you remain living

independently and safely at home. If you have been injured or hospitalised you may be eligible for additional services through the program for a short period of time to help you get back on your feet after you return home. Speak to your service providers in the first instance.

SERVICES

Depending on your needs, support services that you may be eligible for include: ■ Community and home support ■ Domestic assistance – household jobs like cleaning, laundry ■ Personal care – help with bathing, showering or getting dressed ■ Home maintenance – minor general repairs and care of your house or garden, for example, changing light bulbs or replacing tap washers

■ Home modification – minor installation of safety aids such as alarms, ramps and support rails in your home ■ Nursing care – a qualified nurse to dress a wound or provide continence advice in your home ■ Social support – social activities in a community-based group setting ■ Transport – help getting people out and about for shopping or appointments

FOOD SERVICES

■ Providing meals at a community centre ■ Helping with shopping for food ■ Help with making meals and storing food in your home ■ Assistance with learning to cook ■ Delivering meals to your home ■ Allied health support services ■ Physiotherapy

MYAGED CARE: Carer support is available.

(exercises, mobility, strength and balance) ■ Podiatry (foot care) ■ Speech pathology ■ Occupational therapy (help to recover or maintain your physical ability) ■ Advice from a dietician (healthy eating)

■ Other allied health and therapy services ■ Respite care, care for you while your carer takes a break If your carer is in need of additional support, please phone the Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737.

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do so within a matter of days, rather than weeks. A visit from one of our friendly surveyors will allow you to see what sets Acorn Stairlifts apart from any other stairlift company. After assessing your needs, our surveyor will instantly be able to give you the peace of mind of knowing exactly how

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Monday, January 15, 2018 seniorsnews.com.au

Advertising Feature

Gold Coast

Seniors 23

STAY AT HOME

Remain independent with Blue Care’s help FOR 75-year-old Gordon, loss of independence is a great concern – something that came to light after a recent fall. “It was late at night so I didn’t want to call out,” he said. “Well, after an hour and a half of trying to get myself up, I lay down on the floor and waited until somebody got up and came and found me.” As a result, he is starting to investigate options for the future. “I’ve learnt now you’ve got to ask for help if you need it.” It can be difficult to reach out for help – to overcome a feeling of embarrassment that once familiar tasks are becoming harder – but with the right support, life can become so much easier. And asking for help does not mean losing your

independence. In fact, such organisations as Blue Care, one of Queensland’s leading aged care providers, can provide home care services to help you maintain your independence in the comfort of your own home. Heather Pedley, metro south service delivery manager for Blue Care, said it is important for people to feel they can remain independent. Blue Care ensures it works with customers “to deliver the service they would like to have in their home,” she said. “Our team want to help people achieve their goals.” It may be as simple as help with cleaning and washing, showering and dressing; or more complex assistance, such as

hospital follow-up care, wound maintenance, regular nursing or chronic disease management. Other assistance might include physiotherapy, podiatry or logistical services such as advice on walking frames, bathroom handrails or ramps. Ms Pedley believes Blue Care’s strong and proud record of assisting the community, as well as a customer-focused approach, based on building relationships, means it is best placed to provide the right care. And with Blue Care’s help, other relationships don’t have to change – an idea that appeals to Gordon for the future. “Let people stay in their own homes for as long as possible – it’s better for the mind, it’s better for me, and better for my

COMFORT: Blue Care can help you stay in your own home longer.

wife, for that matter.” If you’re ready to take the next step, contact Blue Care’s dedicated

Customer Service team, who can share the expert advice you need to continue to live life your

Protector, ﬁxer, friend, mad keen footy supporter… your dad’s always been there for you and with the support of Blue Care, your relationship doesn’t have to change. As one of Queensland’s leading in-home, retirement living and aged care providers we can deliver tailored support for your loved one. With expert advice and over 60 years experience, we’ll make things simpler, so you and your family continue to live life your way.

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way in the comfort of your own home. Phone 1300 258 322 for further information.

24 Seniors Gold Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, January 15, 2018

Living

Sandwich generation WHETHER you are familiar with the expression “sandwich generation” or not, you could well be part of it. The sandwich generation is made up of people, usually in their 30s or 40s who are caring for their parents as well as their own children. In the case of seniors, it is people in their 60s and 70s caring for elderly parents while juggling the needs of their adult children and trying to help out as much as they can with their grandchildren. “I am one of those families very typical of the sandwich generation,” author Glenna Thomson said. “I am 62, my mother has moved into aged care, my father has passed away, I have step-children, children and grandchildren. To look after them all at the same

time seems to be the work (in families) done mostly by the daughters.” Glenna has written a novel, Stella and Margie, about a sandwich generation family, and although it is fiction, it is drawn from her own experience. “It’s a new phenomenon,” she said. “People are living longer. They take their tablets, and medical intervention keeps people alive longer. It’s a fact of life. “I am 62 and a physically active and fit woman. In previous days I would have been considered an old lady. “Now I have grandchildren and a career and I am dealing with a parent still alive.” Glenna is experiencing what countless other baby boomers are going

through: visiting her elderly mother in an aged-care facility as well as taking her on outings, in between running her own busy life and forging a career, often trying to balance concern and care for her mother with the needs of a two-year-old toddler grandson at the same time. “Having your (elderly) mother and your grandson with you at the same time is like having two toddlers,” she said. “I have to get my mother’s walker into the boot and then you can’t fit anything else in, and then get her into the car and at the same time buckle in the grandson. It’s complicated.” In Australia approximately one in 10 elderly parents live with their adult children, becoming reliant on the

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loneliness, issues between parents and their adult children, real life issues. “What transpires is not depressing, it is uplifting and a poignant reminder of women’s friendship.” Stella and Margie, by Glenna Thomson, Bantam Australia is $32.99.

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very people they once cared for. This shift in relationship from carer to dependent can be a difficult one to navigate and Glenna has portrayed it in her book Stella and Margie, showing all the trials and difficulties of managing multiple needs while trying to keep herself mentally and physically well. She has written in an honest manner about the expectations put on a woman in today’s modern world, being caught between the demands of parents and children and grandchildren. “In the book I have an 80-year-old woman, Margie and then Stella who is 40,” Glenna said. “They are mother and daughter-in-law living in a big old run-down cattle property in country

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Monday, January 15, 2018 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 25

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26 Seniors Gold Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, January 15, 2018

Money

A healthy start FINANCE TONY KAYE AS WITH any new year, there are never any certainties about what lies ahead, especially when it comes to investment markets. We can expect more financial volatility heading into 2018, especially as markets react to geopolitical events and economic moves, such as rising interest rates in the United States and Europe, which could spur more increases here in Australia. In reality, all of these things are out of our control. But there are many things you can do personally to get off to a healthy financial start in 2018. They are easy things to do, and could make a huge difference to your life.

KNOW THE RULES

A really important, but often overlooked, step for seniors is to understand what your financial entitlements and obligations actually are. For example, if you are fully retired, are you fully aware of the rules about how much extra income you can earn before any Age Pension you receive is affected? Do you know how much you can have in assets outside of your family home before your pension is reduced? And, do you know what your required age-based pension drawdown rate is

for this financial year? Also, are you up to speed with the new home downsizing measures taking effect from July 1? It’s really worth spending some time familiarising yourself with all the rules, and you can readily do this online through resources such as the Federal Government’s moneysmart or Department of Human Resources websites.

REVIEW GOALS

This, of course, can be done at any time, and should be done regularly. But the new year is definitely a logical time to review and reassess your short, medium and long-term financial goals. What are your plans, and what do you need to do to achieve them? If you don’t do this already, start recording your income and expenses so you can keep close track of your outgoings and, potentially, identify areas where you can save money each month. This may involve cutting back on spending in certain areas, or looking around for better deals, for example, by changing energy, insurance or telecommunications providers. Knowing what you can do over the short term will feed into your medium and longer term financial goals, and put you on the right path towards achieving them.

TUNE UP YOUR PORTFOLIO

Whether you’re still working or fully retired, the

Find your retirement sweet spot James Gerrard

key to a good financial future is keeping your investment portfolio in good shape. What does that mean? Put simply, you want to make your money last as long as possible. That means ensuring that you don’t have all your financial eggs in one basket, so you can benefit from both growth and income opportunities. A lot comes down to your investment time horizon and risk profile. Many seniors err on the side of caution, avoiding putting their funds into the share market, for example, to reduce potential risk. Yet, there are many lower-risk areas of the market that generate good returns. Indeed, more seniors are using low-cost listed exchange-traded fund products to generate both growth and regular income. But before leaping into any investments, do your research and seek professional financial advice if needed.

BE REALISTIC

Mainly thanks to advances in medicine, many Australians are living to ripe old ages. That’s fantastic, but it also presents all of us with financial challenges. Making our money last longer is paramount, and so is having a good standard of living in retirement. It’s definitely a juggling act, and the key is to be realistic about what you can actually achieve financially. Tony Kaye is the Editor of Eureka Report, which is owed by listed financial services company

InvestSMART. www.investsmart.com.au

OUR new superannuation system with its series of caps and reduction in pension access has thrown up an unlikely outcome – the contradiction that you may be better off having less money saved if you want a more comfortable retirement. If you play your cards right and work the rules, you can hit a savings sweet spot and maximise your retirement income through a mix of private savings and age pension. Not only that, but you also may be able to retire seven years earlier than you thought. From January 1 this year the means testing of pension benefits changed. The government reduced the maximum amount in assets you can have while still receiving a part age pension. In addition, it accelerated the rate of reduction in pension entitlement for those with assets over the cap for a full age pension. They changed from a $1.50 reduction in fortnightly pension for every $1000 of assets over the cap to $3 reduction for every $1000 over. What are the income sources? People in retirement usually generate income from two sources. The first is accumulated savings, such as investment property, term deposits and super accounts; the second is the age pension. For a home owner couple who meet all other eligibility rules, assets below $380,500 (excluding the family home) result in a

full age pension, while a part age pension is received with assets up to $830,000. Previously, up to $1,178,500 in assets could be held before the pension was cut off completely. The result: retirees who have reached age pension age are caught in a trap where they are penalised for having built up more savings by having their age pension cut off much faster, and at a much lower asset level. Save Our Super, with the help of Sean Corbett, an economist with more than 20 years’ experience in the super industry, has modelled retirement income based on a mix of age pension benefits and draw-down of super at a rate of 5 per cent a year, the legislated annual minimum draw-down percentage for those 65 and older. They found that depending on your marital status and housing situation, there were optimal savings to maximise retirement income via a mix of super and age pension benefits. ■ Single person with home - no more than $300,000 in super to get $33,958 a year income. ■ Single person renting no more than $550,000 in super to get $42,549 a year income. ■ Couple with home - no more than $400,000 in super to get $52,395 a year income. ■ Couple renting - no more than $650,000 in super to get $60,833 a year income. Disadvantage of having more assets

For a couple who own their house and have $800,000 in super, their estimated annual income is $41,251, whereas if they have only $400,000 in super their estimated annual income increases to $52,395. This is because a couple with $400,000 in super would get 94 per cent of the full age pension payment, while a couple with $800,000 in super would get just over one per cent of the full age pension payment. So here is a legitimate strategy: to access super tax free, you must be over 60, fully retired and receive a super pension, technically known as an account-based pension. But to receive the age pension, for those born after January 1, 1957, you must be 67. Knowing where your savings sweet spot is likely to be at 67 allows you to plan early and potentially have an early retirement, drawing down on super in those earlier years of retirement to hit the sweet spot by 67. In other words, if you had $800,000 in super at 60, you potentially could retire at 60, spend $400,000 on living expenses, travel and renovating your home. When you reach 67, you have worked your super balance down to $400,000, which is the savings level sweet spot for a couple who own their home. Accumulating as much money as possible for retirement is always the most financially sensible thing to do. James Gerrard is the principal and director of Sydney financial planning firm FinancialAdvisor.com.au.

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Gold Coast

Monday, January 15, 2018 seniorsnews.com.au

A heartstopping thriller

Reviews

Relationships can grow and change

STELLA and Margie is a beautifully written novel that reveals love and duty, acceptance and reconciliation, and of a touching friendship that crosses the generations. It’s about two very different women – a generation apart – thrown together by circumstance, who slowly come to love and understand one another. Stella and her mother-in-law Margie are polar opposites. Stella is kind, compassionate and chaotic. Margie is prickly, demanding and a stickler for convention. Stella has exciting dreams for the future. Margie has only bitter memories of the past.

❝

Margie has never made life easy for her daughterin-law, and that’s not going to change now she’s been made a guest in her former home.

When Margie needs help recovering from a major operation, Stella offers her a place to stay. With no other options, Margie returns to the family farm where for decades, until Stella’s arrival, she was in charge. Margie has never made

CHANGING ROLES: Glenna Thomson’s new novel is about the often difficult shift in relationships, from carer to dependant.

life easy for her daughter-in-law, and that’s not going to change now she’s been made a guest

Seniors 27

in her former home. But as the dry summer turns to a beautiful autumn, the two women gradually form an unlikely bond, as the ambitions, secrets, and tragedies that have shaped their lives are slowly uncovered... Glenna Thomson lives on a cattle property and vividly portrays her experiences on the farm, and in her extensive garden, in her writing. Before moving to the country she developed a career in overseas aid and business. Stella and Margie is her second novel. Published by Penguin Random, Stella and Margie is available in paperback and ebook this month. RRP is $32.99.

Haunting drama will grab you

SARAH Vaughan’s new book Anatomy of a Scandal is a disarming, provocative psychological drama which explores the extent to which our demons still haunt us. There’s a high-profile marriage thrust into the spotlight. A wife, determined to keep her family safe, must face a prosecutor who believes justice has been a long time coming. A scandal that will rock Westminster and the women caught at the heart of it. It’s an astonishingly incisive and suspenseful novel that will get readers talking. Published by Simon and Schuster, Anatomy of a Scandal is available for $29.99.

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THRILLERS as good as The Chalk Man come along once every few years. Prepare for the next global crime thriller sensation. Looking back, it all started on the day of the fair and the terrible accident. When 12-year-old Eddie first met the Chalk Man. It was the Chalk Man who gave Eddie the idea for the drawings – a way to leave secret messages between his group of friends. And it was fun, to start with, until the figures led them to the body of a young girl. That was 30 years ago and Ed thought the past was behind him. Then Ed realises the game was never over... RRP starts at $32.99.

28 Seniors Gold Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, January 15, 2018

Let’s save

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A salad that has it all. It’s sweet, sour, salty, fresh, fragrant and best of all easy. Enjoy! INGREDIENTS 1/3 cup lime juice 2 tbls fish sauce 1 tbls caster sugar 1 long red chilli, finely chopped 200g rice stick noodles 1 tbls vegetable oil 2 spring onions, finely sliced 3 garlic cloves, crushed 400g chicken mince 100g mushrooms 1/2 small iceberg lettuce, coarsely shredded 2 carrots, finely grated 1 small cucumber cut into small batons 1 cup fresh mint leaves 1 1/2 cups bean sprouts, 2 tablespoons chopped

roasted peanuts METHOD Combine juice, fish sauce, sugar and chilli in a jug. Stir until sugar dissolves. Cook noodles following packet directions. Cool under cold running water. Drain. Heat oil in a large wok or frying pan over high heat. Stir-fry chicken mince, onion, garlic and mushrooms for 3-4 minutes or until cooked. Meanwhile, divide noodles, salad, carrots, mint and sprouts into four bowls. Top with chicken mixture. Sprinkle with peanuts. Drizzle over dressing. You can also replace chicken and mushroom mixture with fresh prawns or shredded chicken which is even easier to prepare.

Be an enviro conscious shopper

Security Doors and Shutters Servicing All Areas

One of the easiest dishes you can make is Vietnamese noodle salad with lots of herbs and good quality protein with an abundance of green. You can use shredded chicken, mince or fresh prawns – it’s up to you. You can whip up a chicken and noodle salad in less than 10 minutes or a refreshing Asian-style soup or a coleslaw to go with barbecued skewers or steak. Pan-fried salmon with smashed potatoes with a rocket salad is also an easy fresh healthy meal. Experiment and try different flavours. You might be surprised at how wonderful a fresh salad can be. For more recipes, go to www.seniorsnews. com.au.

IF YOU are becoming more environmentally aware by taking your own reusable bags to buy your groceries, then well done! Plastic bags take years to decompose and are an enormous harm to our environment. There are so many stores that give you the option to support a charity for a small donation and take a calico or jute bag instead.

Supermarkets also sell the reusable bags. Anything we can do now to make the switch from plastic, is a step forward to care for our planet in the future. If you’re like me, you just have to remember to take the bags in with you before you get to the checkout! Like anything new, it takes a little bit of getting used to but before long, we will wonder why it took so long to get with the program and say no to plastic. There are a variety of options in many colours and sizes to choose from. ★Waterproof and reusable

BAN THE PLASTIC: Find a eco-friendly alternative for your shopping needs, like a jeep, cart or a reusable bag.

eco-friendly bags to carry. ★Foldable shopping cart trolley bags custom-made to fit across the supermarket trolley. ★Custom shopping bags with wheels that you can pull along. ★Reusable good quality

foldable shopping tote. ★Polyester trolley bag. ★Foldable waterproof cold goods storage bags. ★Jute hessian bag. ★Shopping trolley jeep. ★Two-tier wire basket to fit in a cart. Happy Shopping

The Whitney Houston Show Ticket Giveaway

Showtime Australia will present the critically acclaimed live production, The Greatest Love of All - The Whitney Houston Show at the Star on the Gold Coast on the 3rd February. A beautifully crafted tribute, the show will honour the talent, music and memory of one of the world’s most revered singers. In preparation for such an anticipated show, Showtime Australia conducted over 15,000 auditions across 12 countries before selecting accomplished South African vocalist Belinda Davids who delivers the voice, charm, nuances, and even the gestures of Houston. And we have 5 double passes to the Gold Coast Event to give away to our readers! To be in the running, visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitions and ﬁll in the entry form! Good luck!

Visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitionterms for full competition terms and conditions. Promoter is ARM Specialist Media Pty Ltd of 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore Qld 4558. Promotional period 11/12/17 - 15/01/18. Competition drawn 9am 16/01/18 at Cnr Mayne Rd and Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006. Winners announced in Seniors February Editions 2018. Total prize value $799.00 (including GST). Entry is open to all permanent residents of Queensland, residing in the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Brisbane Seniors distribution areas.

Wellbeing + Travel + living + Money

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

Gold Coast

Monday, January 15, 2018 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 29

To advertise, call 1300 136 181 or visit ﬁnda.com.au to view more ads online. Tributes

Health & Beauty

Motoring

Trades & Services

Funeral Directors & Services

Health - Professional Practitioners

Caravans & Motor Homes

Carpet Cleaning Services

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Professional Services

Ph: 5532 3466 Opening Hours

Monday-Friday 7:30am to 5:30pm • Saturday 8:00am to 11:30am

Trades & Services

Medical & Healthcare

Awnings & Blinds

Health - Professional Practitioners

Food & Beverage

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• Free No Obligation Home Demonstrations • Free Delivery • Service and repairs for all brands • Trade-Ins welcome • Scooters from $1650

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operating systems

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Jobs

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* At your home on your own

* Windows, Android or Apple Offering seniors a 25% discount on selling fees

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Providing Professional And Personal Care, 24 Hours, 7 Days, All Areas. The Rufﬂes Family, A Part of the Queensland Community for over 120 years.

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Builders

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PLANNING TO TRAVEL?

COMPUTER HELP smart-phone

Services

AGE CATCHING UP WITH YOU?

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Same Day Appointments Walk-Ins Welcome

Cremation Services from $1,550

HAVE A FAMILY?

House Cleaners

Team of 2 Honest & Reliable with many years experience. Police Checks available & excellent references from existing clients. 0419 289 638

computer, tablet or

Gentle Guidance, Digniﬁed and Compassionate Care

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Cleaning

Property

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268 Ferry Road, SOUTHPORT 4215 (07) 5532 4168 | www.gcdentalcentre.com.au

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• Family owned and operated local dental practice • Gentle female dentist with over 16 years experience • Dental hygienist / therapist for all the preventative needs and children’s dentistry • Dental prosthetist with onsite dental laboratory where we fabricate all our removable appliances and dentures

• Free Funeral Pre-Planning Service • Proudly 100% Australian Family Owned • Multicultural, Traditional and Contemporary Burial and Cremation Services

Custom made aesthetically designed natural looking dentures that you can wear with a conﬁdent smile.

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

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When a death occurs, few of us are well prepared. We all need assistance and support when suffering a time of loss. Rufﬂes Funeral directors are committed to assisting and supporting you to plan a funeral service that is both affordable and meaningful.

Everyone Deserves Peace Of Mind

0413 497 423 | www.goldclassarpetcleaning.com.au

Be wary if the number in the ad is disconnected. If the buyer/seller says the number is disconnected because they are overseas, ask for a landline phone number at their current location as well as a mobile phone number. All contact details of the person buying or selling the car should be verified to ensure they are genuine.

About us ...

Freecall 1800 995 352 www.integrityfunerals.com.au

We Just Like To Make It A Little More Convenient

single rug to 2.4 X 1.2 mts.

BEWARE OF SCAMS

Buyers should be cautious when dealing with car sellers that are overseas and should always arrange to view the vehicle prior to the transfer of any money.

Free no-obligation pre-planning of funerals and prepaid funeral quotations. Call today.

1300 512 287

RUG CLEAN with every full house clean or

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It makes sense to plan ahead... ask Integrity Funerals about preplanned funerals.

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Suns Readers

Cars

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For a free $200 contribution card | Call 1800 644 524 Newhaven Funerals; 1 Central Drive Burleigh Heads Q 4220 Or 21 Quinns Hill ROAD West, Stapylton Q 4207

Integrity Funeral Plan

Phone 3812 3553

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Lowest prices guaranteed Government accredited Free hearing aid trials Free hearing checks Free wax removal for pensioners

• Reputation & Experience • Proudly Australian • Award Winning • Attention to Detail

We have one of the largest & most efﬁcient carpet cleaning machines in the industry. We steam clean and it is dry in hours. • We clean upholstery lounges • Tile and grout cleaning • Leather lounges • Mattress cleaning

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finda Bargain!

Mark 0435 990 798 or Wayne 0415 529 305

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HEARING AIDS

Thinking of finding out more about funeral planning?

Carpet Cleaning

CARAVANS WANTED

EXPERTS IN INVISIBLE

30 Seniors Gold Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, January 15, 2018

Trades & Services

ALL ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS

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CALL ALBERT

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www.jabservices.com.au

Servicing Central and Northern Gold Coast • No job too small • Seniors discount • Satisfaction guaranteed

Lic. No 66233

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(same day response to your enquiry)

–FOR PEACE OF MIND–

TERMITE SPECIALIST FREE QUOTES

COMMERCIAL PEST SPECIALIST SERVICING AREA SINCE 1998 FULLY INSURED AND LICENSED QBCC 1036993

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Phone Anne 0410 136 223

$45 per hour • Police checked

Great food - Great prices 180 Pokies & Jackpot Links | Cash Bingo Every Day FREE Courtesy Bus | Kids Zone FREE Entertainment - Fri to Mon Daily Raffles SENIORS DAY EVERY MONDAY FROM 11AM - 2PM

Only work valued at $3300 or less

Home Services

Or 5502 2297 Honest, reliable service at very competitive rates FOR ANY RESIDENTIAL OR COMMERCIAL SERVICE

GARAGE DOORS AND GATES

• Carpenters

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SERVICING ALL MAKES AND MODELS INCLUDING

• Tilers - Pavers

• Rubbish Removal • Gutter Cleaning • Pest Control • Electricians • Concretors • Cabinet Makers • Plumbers • Handymen • Tree Lopping • Carpet Cleaners

• Pergolas

• Appliance Repair • Bricklayers • Plasterers

Phone 1300654244 or 0404043344

Cannot perform building work valued at more than $3300.

JANOME SEWING MACHINES Open from Mon-Fri 9:30AM - 4:30PM Saturday 9:00AM - 1:00PM

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* Conditions apply, ask consultant at time of booking only.

REPLACEMENT R C M OF S O SPIRALS, A S LOCKS, OCKS FRICTION HINGES WINDERS, W S DOOR CLOSERS S (INC FRAMELESS R M SS DOORS) O ROLLERS O S AND A SPRINGS S

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Sell Your Stuff. Visit www.finda.com.au

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magazine: The Perfect Christmas Gift for the inspiring women in your life. The gift of a 1 or 2 year subscription means the inspirational women in your life won’t miss the treasures within Ruth’s quarterly issues, and it will be posted direct to their PO Box or letterbox, before it’s even available at a newsagency.

All new subscribers receive a pack of Tuckeroo roasted and ground wattle seeds along with a recipe for beautiful wattle seed shortbread*.

1 year subscription 4 issues value $27.80 2 year subscription 8 issues value $55.60 Available in Newsagents all over QLD, NSW, ACT. media.com.au Enquiries: call 07 4690 9310 or ruth.subscribe@newsregionalm

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for more info visit rslclubsouthport.com.au

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For sale, new or secondhand 20ft and 40ft shipping containers. Modiﬁcations include internal dividing walls, windows, doors, insulated cladding power/solar.

QUALITY SERVICE PH: 5534 8455

with fix-it skills for most jobs Servicing Central & North Gold Coast

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Pest Management Pty Ltd

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Rubbish Removal

Free Quotes

Min. 1 hour • No job too small

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Termite Inspection $240

ExpEriEncEd Handyman/carpEntEr

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discount for Seniors

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Electrical Services

LOCAL BARGAIN

Puzzles

Monday, January 15, 2018 seniorsnews.com.au

JIGGERED

15/1

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 3x3 square fits in with that letter and write in the letters. You can also shade the black squares if you find it helpful. After completing the first 3x3 area, work out which square joins on to it, and continue until you have made a complete crossword.

E C H U B E L

R O S E N I R

G E

M E

B L U E

I B U M N

H I N E D E W

P I O C T S

A S T D H A T E

G L S E T A

V E L W V E S

D S H A T I

U R C S E P H

R M A P X

E S H V A N

S T E H B O S

A A N E T R

C H O K E M R

N C A K I

G A V E I N

O G L O O L

O P A N A I

C O H T I G

I D E N A G L

U A O M N U

I I M E N T

Gold Coast

QUICK CROSSWORD

Across 6. Unadulterated (6) 7. Rubbish heap (6) 10. Theft (7) 11. Advice (5) 12. Suspended (4) 13. False (5) 16. Any two-legged creature (5) 17. Stylish (4) 20. Death notices (abbr) (5) 21. Competitor (7) 22. Wages (6) 23. Do without (6)

Down 1. Be in charge (4,3,5) 2. Trials, tests (3,4) 3. Beginning (5) 4. Nauseous (7) 5. Skilled (5) 8. Announcement (12) 9. Something surprising or revealing (3,6) 14. Crevice (7) 15. Devalue (7) 18. Undulating (5) 19. Wooden seat (5)

9 10

13 14

TRIO

Seniors 31

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.

R A

A V E W N V E

O A D G A G K E I N D I N C L O M L I N A G

S T H T E M E A I M E T H K E R D E A L

MELON, NAMELY, OrIENtS, PLAStErS, QUALIFIEr.

ALPHAGRAMS

Submit your photos, stories, events and notices online. Look for the ‘share your event or story’ box on our home page.

Visit us at seniorsnews.com.au

6729615bk

WORD GO ROUND

L C H S T I O N N C A I C H I E E W D B U E G S E T

It’s Good to Share

P H A N E R G O O

Good 17 Very Good 24 Excellent 29+

P N A U U S N E I T A T H O L L L

D G A V E I I S E S H R V A A N I B M E P O C S S E C U B E

510

N E

TODAY

LEMON LAYMEN STONIER STAPLERS IRAQI FUEL

SUDOKU

JIGGERED S H T R O E N I U O M U S T H B O R M A X

E T

S N

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.

TRIO: trE

WORD GO ROUND

QUICK CROSSWORD

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

Across: 6. Arrant 7. Midden 10. Larceny 11. Input 12. Hung 13. Bogus 16. Biped 17. Chic 20. Obits 21. Entrant 22. Salary 23. Forego. Down: 1. Call the shots 2. Dry runs 3. Onset 4. Bilious 5. Adept 8. Notiﬁcation 9. Eye opener 14. Fissure 15. Cheapen 18. Hilly 19. Stool.

ALPHAGRAMS

agent ages angst gannet gate gean gene genet gent gets gnat gnaw gnawn gnaws nags negate negates NEWSAGENT sage sang sewage snag stag stage swag swage tags tang tangs twang twangs wage wages wags

32 Seniors Gold Coast

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, January 15, 2018

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