Northern NSW, December 2018 by seniors

December, 2018

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Tony Bonner ... on life, sobriety and the meaning of family

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WELCOME

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News - Working for changes Cover Story - Tony Bonner Community group guide Talk n Thoughts Wanderlust Wellbeing Living Puzzles

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DECEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Merry Christmas to you Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor IT seems such a long time ago when the mention of a whole year ahead felt like an eternity, but these days I know I’m not alone when I say that every Christmas seems to come around faster than the last one! Just a couple of weeks ago, I was blessed with my second grandchild, a healthy little girl. I feel there is absolutely nothing that could be a better Christmas gift than the safe delivery of this little one. But I will also be spending time with my other grandchild, five-year-old Maryam who has reached the age of pondering team activities. “GG (stands for Grandma Gail), she says looking up at me with her big brown eyes: ‘What can we do today’?” Fortunately, thanks to a number of community groups who answered our call-out for ideas, I have a list that will keep both of us busy. I hope it gives you some ideas too. This year we have filled many pages sharing the latest news on activities for the mind and body. On that line, I’m happy to say at age 61, I have completed nearly five years

of part-time study and gained a Masters of Arts in Literature (research). I now happily join a fast-growing list of people in my age group who have completed post-grad study. I’m one of those people that find study more natural that exercise! But I’m naming 2019 as my active body year – so watch out for plenty of physical exercise stories. Christmas is time for friends, families and community. I’d like say Merry Christmas to our community of loyal readers, to our advertisers, to all those who contribute community notes and articles, to the great people who have let us interview and write stories about their lives and to my talented work colleagues. Gail PS: If you have events for publication for the upcoming NSW Seniors Festival, please email to us by January 11.

CONTACT US General Manager Geoff Crockett – 0413 988 333 geoff.crockett@news.com.au Editor Gail Forrer – 1300 880 265 gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Executive Sue Germany – 0408 286 539 sue.germany@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Online Get your news online at www.seniorsnews.com.au Advertising, editorial and distribution enquiries Phone: 1300 880 265 Email: advertising@seniorsnewspaper.com.au or editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au 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 “Northern NSW Seniors Newspaper”. The Seniors Newspaper is published monthly and distributed free in northern New South Wales and southeast Queensland. The Seniors newspaper stable includes Toowoomba, Wide Bay, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Northern NSW, Coffs and Clarence and Central Coast publications. Published by News Corp Australia. Printed by News Corp Australia, Yandina. Opinions expressed by contributors to Seniors Newspapers are not necessarily those of the editor or the owner/publisher and publication of advertisements implies no endorsement by the owner/publisher.

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NEWS

Working for changes Taking a seat on the board means making a difference Tania Phillips

NERIDA Dean is a force of nature, a whirlwind of community spirit, determination and passion – so it’s no surprise that Cancer Council NSW has just appointed her to their board. The host of numerous Biggest Morning Tea and Daffodil fundraising events, Nerida, 64, is one of two regional representatives on the state board. Born in Casino, growing up in Brunswick and now living in Kingscliff (though also spending a lot of time with her grandchildren at Safety Beach), she is also president of the Mullumbimby Rotary Club (like her brother and father before her) and has just stood down from the Kingscliff Chamber of Commerce to concentrate on her new role. A teacher for most of her working life, Nerida ended up in Queenbeyan where she raised her family, moving back up to be close to her mother and sons when she retired. “I’ve been doing work in the Northern Rivers area for the Cancer Council since I arrived here in 2012,” Nerida said. “One of the Rotarians at the Mullumbimby club got up at a meeting and said we need people sell daffodils at Bilinudgel and I said I’d do it. “Then the ladies that run a Cancer Council group in Mullumbimby invited me along to their Christmas event to say thank you to people who has supported them over the years and the young

woman from the Cancer Council said they were doing a survey to find out who sells cigarettes and whether they have licences and whether they are breaking the law or not. “When no one else put their hand up to do it, I volunteered. “Then I got a phone call in early 2013 to say would you like to come to a meeting in Lismore where they are going to give feedback on the outcome of that campaign.

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We’ve now just started our fourth campaign called Saving Life 2019. “From there I was invited into CanAct – the advocacy part of the NSW Cancer Council and that’s where they put campaigns together to put to the politicians before elections. “We’ve now just started our fourth campaign called Saving Life 2019.” Her role as a volunteer has been varied and interesting, including being trained to be the Parliamentary Liaison person for the Cancer Council working with the local member in the Tweed electorate. “Now I’ve been elected to the council board,” she explained. “The Cancer Council has a requirement in their constitution that two members of their board must primarily reside in

TAKING A POSITION: Nerida Dean has joined the Cancer Council board of NSW.

rural and regional Australia and one of the members of the board Dr Joe Mcgirr, who I knew from Queanbeyan, had to resign because he won the state seat of Wagga as an Independent.” Nerida, who lost an aunt to breast cancer, is passionate about her new

role which she believes is another opportunity for her to “show my support for the cause and make a difference to the lives of those suffering from this insidious disease”. “The reason why I do it is because the Cancer Council is the only one of all the cancer

organisations that does proactive preventative education, that is in school’s supporting preventative education, healthy eating, that liaise with governments,” she explained. “We get told time and time again by parliamentarians that we

Photo: Contributed

are probably the best at liaising, that we don’t tell them how to do their job but we go to them with very valuable things that need changing for the people that suffer from cancer. “Over the years we’ve had some big wins on the board.”

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COVER STORY

DECEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Digging deep

Bonner’s life rates high on satisfaction, just not happiness

A BIG LIFE: Tony Bonner looks back at history and future dreams.

Photo: Tracey Johnstone

Tracey Johnstone TONY Bonner is sitting on a bench on the balcony of his beloved Manly Life Saving Club. In the background the ocean waves crash. A group of novice surfboard riders tentatively head out under the watchful eye of an instructor. The Norfolk Pines sway in the gentle breeze. Horns honk, running bare feet slap on the pathway below. All is seemingly very everyday. For this internationally recognised actor, it’s his normal. It’s his safety zone. There, he is king of the club – immediate past-president for the fourth time, newly minted Life Member, grandson of the first club president, and still active patrol man. It’s where he comes every day he is at home. More than 50 years of acting, directing, singing, dancing, coaching, teaching and mentoring isn’t enough. Bonner is still looking for happiness in his life. He has travelled the world, worked alongside the likes of Kirk Douglas, Roger Moore, Tom

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Selleck, Tony Curtis and Paul Hogan. He will also be forever remembered for stint as the helicopter pilot in the iconic Australian television series Skippy which went to air 50 years ago this year. Some readers will remember when Cosmopolitan boldly launched its male centrefold series in 1972 with Burt Reynolds in America and then Bonner in Australia. “I thought it was great and always have,” Bonner said. Last year’s awarding of an Australian Medal remains one of his Bonner’s fondest life moments. He has received many peer awards, but to also be recognised publicly for his entertainment industry roles, along with his contribution to lifesaving and to several high-profile charities; there has been nothing more precious to him. Bonner’s most recent work was as a feature actor in the Australian crime thriller film Landfall which is due in cinemas this month.

SENIORS \\DECEMBER, 2018

COVER STORY

to get to Tony Bonner Unlike America, Bonner says there are less and less roles in Australia open to veteran actors. “Once you hit 50 you kind of start to become invisible,” Bonner said. “ But for Bonner, he has two more films “in the air”, awarded writer and journalist Matthew Condon is working on Bonner’s biography and Katie Rae is painting his portrait for next year’s Archibald Prize. Even with all that to Bonner’s credit, it just seems that still isn’t enough. Bonner’s slight tilt of the head to the left and a gentle creasing of the brow introduces the intense side of the still

very handsome, single, 75-year-old. That intensity is a product of his tempestuous life journey and its outcomes. Bonner ran away from a violent home scene just after he had turned 14. “I caught a daylight train to Melbourne, rented a little room in east Melbourne, and started,” Bonner said. He battled alcoholism from the age of 14 through to 46. “I danced with the devil back then,” Bonner added. He put down the booze and the cigarettes, once and for all. His work improved. His relationships improved.

“It’s only been pluses,” he said. Next year Bonner will proudly mark 30 years of staying dry. “If there is such a thing as miracles in the life, and I believe there is, I am one,” he said. About 14 years ago he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Bonner has since then mentored both men diagnosed with the disease and their partners about the experience, reminding them, “your life is more important that your erection”. So, will he know when he has found his happiness? “I don’t know; I’m sure there will be a feeling that

says to me, this is what you have missed all your life,” he said. A slight lowering of the direct gaze. His tense shoulders ease ever so slightly. The corners of his mouth give way to a gentle, loving smile. The pall over Bonner’s life lifts as he talks about his family; his greatest personal pride. Bonner’s continuing strong relationship with his ex-wife, Nola Clark, and enduring connection with his three daughters and their children are what he says have kept him alive. Living long enough to become a greatgrandfather is absolutely

FROM LEFT: Tony Bonner was the first Australian centrefold for the Cosmopolitan magazine, published in 1972; young Tony (as flight ranger Jerry King) with Skippy the Bush Kangaroo; and Tony with actor Shawn Brack in Travis Bain’s new thriller movie Landfall, in cinemas from this month. at the top of Bonner’s list for the future. “To even say that from someone who didn’t think he would get past the age of 20 because of the way I was living; for me to still be here at 75 and to think, holy crap, there is a distinct possibility you are going to be a greatgrandfather; to me it’s nearly incomprehensible,” he said. Bonner started the day with a swim in the ocean at first light. By the end of the day he has turned his mind to hosting a

fundraising function at the surf club, before heading off to coach aspiring actors and continue his charity work for The Smith Family, Bravehearts, the Variety Club and the Wesley Mission suicide prevention program. “It’s in my nature,” he said. “I have been blessed to have been in a battle and knocked around a bit, and survived. I get great pleasure if I can be of assistance to someone; if I can put a hand out, then I am really blessed.”

NEWS

DECEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Bowling into Christmas

It’s no trouble to tackle the weather for love of this game Tania Phillips FOR most of us, that last week in December and first week in January is a time to eat, drink and be merry – but not for the region’s bowlers. Braving the heat and humidity some of the area and country’s top bowlers take to the greens for the Summerland Pairs, now in its 59th year, and the 60th Summerland Singles at Cherry Street Sports in Ballina. And one man already in preparation for both events, the pairs from December 27-29 and the singles from January 2-6, is Ballina’s Neil Burgess. Burgess, now in his early 60s, loves this event and not just because there is $25,000 prizemoney up for grabs or that he has the singles more times than anyone else... it’s the camaraderie and competition. Thirty-two teams take part in the pairs while 128

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I’m an old hand at it now. I’m playing pretty well at the moment. will roll off for the singles. “I’ve been competing in it almost since I started playing 30 years or so ago,” Burgess explained. And the former soccer player took to his new sport pretty quickly – winning his first singles title early on in his career in 1988, again in 1991, 1992, 1994, 1995 and finally in 2005. “I’m an old hand at it now,” he laughed. “I’m playing pretty well at the moment.” He certainly is in form, winning the prestigious local tournament Flemmo’s Day in late November.

WINNERS ARE GRINNERS: The winners of the annual Flemmo’s Day bowls competition (from left) Alf Boston, Noel Flemming, Neil Burgess and Craig Teys. The lads are busy preparing for the next big bowls event at Ballina – the prestigious Summerland Singles. Noel Flemming, an old stalwart of the Cherry Street club, has sponsored the Tournament for the past 11 years and it attracts

the best local bowlers. It is a good lead up event for the Summerland – considered one of the most prestigious events on the North Coast these

days. Burgess will be looking for his seventh title (his nearest rivals are on three) – he will also team up with Warren Wyatt in

the pairs. He said the event ends up being a lot of fun and a challenge but you get the impression he wouldn’t have it any other way!

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SENIORS \\DECEMBER, 2018

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Community notes

Community group guide TO ALLOW for readers’ requests for the publication of more neighbourhood news, please keep notices short and to the point (100 word maximum). If you would like to submit a photo ensure it is at least 180dpi or 500kb to 1mb in size and of faces, in a nice bright setting. Email editor@seniors newspaper.com.au. THE NSW Seniors Festival will be taking place between February 13-24, 2019. To have your event published into our Calendar of Events, email a brief description, including the event name, date, time and contact details to editor@seniors newspaper.com.au by Friday, January 4, 2019.

meeting during December 2018 or January 2019. The next meeting will be at Tricare, 87 Tweed Coast Road, Hastings Point, at 10am on Tuesday, February 19, 2019. The speaker will be Jan Pilgrim, rescuer/carer with Tweed Valley Wildlife. Inquiries with Jean Watson on (02) 6670 4072.

PROBUS CLUBS

TWEED HOSPITAL AUXILIARY

Coolangatta Tweed Heads WE RECENTLY awarded a Life Membership to long time member John McKean. Presenting the award to John at a morning tea with a small group of fellow members, club president Bruce Cowled mentioned John’s outstanding contribution over a period of 15 years including eight years as secretary fostering the Probus aspirations of providing fun, friendship and fellowship for members. We meet on the first Wednesday of each month (except January) at Tweed Heads Bowls Club featuring a guest speaker and has monthly dine-outs to local restaurants and other activities for the enjoyment of members and visitors. Anyone interested in joining, recently retired or new to the area, phone Barbara on (07) 5523 4840. Hastings Point/Tweed Coast THERE will be no

RECYCLING PLASTIC BOTTLES – Do you recycle your plastic bottles at the Tweed City Return & Earn Station? From now until February 24 you will be able to donate to the Tweed Hospital Auxiliary by using the donation button when you return your bottles. This is a great way to recycle and also help the local hospital. The auxiliary would like to thank everyone who supported its many fundraising activities during 2018. All the funds raised go towards purchasing equipment for the local hospital. We wish all the members who have worked so hard during the year and all the supporters, a very merry Christmas and a happy new year. The Sunday Bingo will continue every Sunday at noon at the Tweed Heads Bowls Club over the Christmas break. We look forward to your support in 2019.

OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION: A Life Membership award was presented to long time member John McKean at a morning tea with a small group of fellow members. forward to welcoming you. You’ll be glad you did.

U3A

Jude Vernon of Kingscliff put her knitting skills to the test for her University of the Third Age (U3A) Tweed Coast group Knit and Natter and won first prize for her cardigan.

LAWN BOWLS COOLANGATTA

KNOWN as the “friendliest little club on the coast” we are seeking new female and male members. No experience necessary. Free coaching with bowls provided.

Twilight bowls and Barefoot Bowls are popular. Great game and lots of new friends. Phone the club on (07) 5536 6677 or Pam on 0411 650 709 or drop in for a drink and ask about Free Coaching. At 67 Scott Street. Look

Tweed Coast THE University of the Third Age Tweed Coast is a wonderful friendly community organisation offering more than 40 different learning and social groups, from painting to languages, book clubs to tennis, computers to dancing. It costs just $40 to join U3A Tweed Coast, giving you unlimited access to the activities until December 2019. For more information, phone Jeni on 0401 821 681 or check our website: tweedcoast.u3anet.org. au. Jude stitches up Bangalow Show: A beautiful knitted woollen cardigan based on Japanese characters has stolen the show at Bangalow. It is the inspired creation of Jude Vernon of Kingscliff who put her knitting skills to the test for her University of the Third Age (U3A) Tweed Coast group Knit and Natter. Jude’s six-year-old granddaughter will be the lucky recipient of her gorgeous creation this

Christmas. Happy days. Twin Towns NEW volunteer tutors and course leaders are always welcome. Share your knowledge and experience for short courses or full year classes in topics such as history, geography, philosophy, film appreciation, music, craft, technology, exercise and dance. Share your ideas with the friendly members at U3A Twin Towns. Located at 4 Boyd Street, Tugun, we run more than 40 classes per week. For more, phone (07) 5534 7333 or email u3atwintowns@gmail. com.

VIEW CLUBS

Twin Towns OUR final meeting for the year was held at the Oasis Room of the Tweed Heads Bowls Club. Always a great Christmas party. There will be no meeting in January. The AGM will be held on Wednesday, February 13, 2019. Subs are due then. All info on our Facebook page ‘Twin Towns Evening View’. Thanks to all our supporters for a great year. For more information, phone (07) 5536 2277.

Big stars go for a senior moments laugh

SENIOR MOMENTS: Australia’s finest actors join to give us a riotious play.

OPEN up the wallet and do yourself a favour this Christmas by giving the gift of laughter. The cast and crew of the hilarious comedy revue Senior Moments have announced they’ll be at it again from February 2019 with a 17 show tour across Australia. Actors John Wood, Max Gillies, Benita Collings, Kim Lewis and Russell Newman will be joined by Midday Show maestro Geoff Harvey on piano as

they share hilarious stories of growing old. Senior Moments is described as a “deliciously funny and fresh collection of comic senior moments, scenes and songs, with hilarious sketches and wonderfully witty songs performed by some legendary show business seniors”. “It’s a seriously silly show for otherwise sensible seniors.” The 90 minute show will tour theatres is Adelaide,

Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Hobart and Canberra, and regionally on the Gold Coast (February 27 to March 2), Newcastle, Wollongong, Caloundra, Port Macquarie (March 15-16), Wyong (February 2) and more. Tickets start at $55 and are on sale now, go to seniormoments show.com.au for more information.

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Deliciously funny and fresh collection of comic senior moments, scenes and songs...

NEWS

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SENIORS \\DECEMBER, 2018

NEWS

DECEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

aLL thinGs LeGaL

Lynette Dawson MurDer CoLD Case anD the ‘ForFeiture ruLe’ By Lucy McPherson, estate Litigation solicitor A teacher, a teenage schoolgirl, an affair, and a dead mother. The case of missing woman Lynette Dawson lay cold in the archives of the NSW Police for 37 years until last month. Queensland Police swooped on a Biggera Waters home to arrest 70-year-old former Newtown Jets rugby league player and former P.E. teacher Chris Dawson at the request of NSW Police on Wednesday December 5. Chris was extradited out of Qld to be charged with the murder of Lynette on December 6, in Sydney, after he was the subject of a popular investigative ABC podcast by The Australian, called The Teacher’s Pet. The podcast revealed the sad story of Lynette around the time of her mysterious disappearance from Sydney’s northern beaches on January 9, 1982. Aged 33, Lynette went missing just days before her husband Chris moved his schoolgirl lover into their family home. Chris did not report Lynette missing to police for five weeks, telling her family when she went missing, she needed time away from home. While Chris maintains he had nothing to do with his wife’s disappearance and the court investigate the matter, the horror case raises key issues over estate law. Speaking to Attwood Marshall Lawyers, Walkley Award winning journalist Hedley Thomas said the case he investigated for the podcast raised questions. “When Chris Dawson sold the Bayview home that him and Lynnette owned together, a few years after her alleged murder, it fetched almost $300,000.00,” Hedley said. “It is now worth more than $2.5m and Chris Dawson has acquired other assets, on the Gold Coast and on the Sunshine Coast, in the decades since his first wife’s sudden disappearance. “One of Lynette’s two daughters lives in very modest rented accommodation as a single mother to a young child, and it will be interesting to see whether any action might be taken in the event of a murder trial, culminating in a conviction. “However, it is early days and Chris is entitled to a presumption of innocence over a crime which has always strenuously denied committing.”

intestacy laws in the case of Lynette Dawson It is not known if Lynette died leaving a valid Will. Chris was potentially able to claim Lynette’s estate after she went missing. If Lynette died without leaving a Will in NSW her estate would have been distributed pursuant to the laws of intestacy. Intestacy provides a statutory formula the distribution of an estate in the absence of a Will. Under the intestacy rules if a person dies and leave a spouse and that person has children with that spouse then the spouse is entitled to the whole of your estate. Chris would have inherited Lynette’s estate on her death. The other likely possibility is that Lynette’s assets (which were primarily comprised of the matrimonial home in Bayview in Sydney’s Northern Beaches) may have been held jointly with her husband, Chris. Under the rules of survivorship the surviving owner under joint tenancy automatically absorbs a dying owner’s share of the property.

survivorship rules in estate Law It is likely after Lynette’s disappearance in the 1980s – Chris would have taken Lynette’s share of the Bayview property under the rules of survivorship. Where a person is not heard from for a period of seven years by those persons who would be expected to have communication with that person, then a Court may presume that person dead. This period may be less depending on the circumstances of the disappearance.

in NSW, a Court may have presumed Lynette to be dead and Chris would have been entitled to inherit her estate consisting of the Bayview home, which was constructed using funds provided by Lynette’s parents. The property is now worth over $2 million.

the story of Lynette and Chris Dawson Lynette and Chris were high school sweethearts. They met while they were students at Sydney Girls High and Sydney Boys High. They later married and in 1976, they purchased a block of 4,167sqm bushy acreage at Bayview in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, about 30km north of Sydney City. They contracted a builder to construct an impressive home on the block of land with the financial assistance of Lynette’s parents. Chris’ lawyer, Greg Walsh, said his client “strenuously asserts his innocence”. Chris says that Lynette abandoned her family and “went to live with a religious cult”. Lynette has not been seen or heard from since her disappearance in 1982. Her body has never been found. Two days after her disappearance Chris’ teenage lover moved into the family home in Bayview. In 1983 Chris divorced his missing wife and in January 1984 he married his teenage lover at the property in Bayview. He was 35 and she was 19. After marrying, the pair sold the Bayview property and moved to Qld together and had a daughter. The couple later separated and divorced in around 1990.

Can a murder conviction affect intestacy and beneﬁciary rules? If Chris is convicted with Lynette’s murder, this conviction would essentially disqualify Chris from taking any financial benefit from her estate as a beneficiary. This is referred to as the forfeiture rule. The forfeiture rule is a common law principle which provides that where a person is criminally responsible for the death of another from whose estate that person will benefit, then the person’s interest in that property is forfeited. Proceedings under the Forfeiture Act are commenced by summons in the Equity Division of the Supreme Court of NSW. Under the forfeiture rule, the person who has committed a crime is also excluded from benefiting from assets which don’t necessarily form part of the estate i.e. as a result of joint tenancy. For instance, if the Bayview property was held by Lynette and Chris as joint tenants, Chris would be prohibited from taking any benefit under the rules of survivorship. If Chris is convicted of Lynette’s murder he will be precluded from taking a benefit from her estate. Lynette’s two daughters – who are now in their 30s - are likely to be considered the next in line to inherit her estate or any financial benefit Chris received as a result of Lynette’s death.

a civil claim under ‘the forfeiture rule’ Even if Chris is not convicted, a civil case can be launched seeking an order that on the balance of probabilities, he killed his wife and that the forfeiture rule applies. Lyentte’s daughters could still apply for forfeiture of their mother’s estate. The fact that person has been acquitted cannot be used as evidence of a person’s innocence in civil proceedings. If Lynette’s daughters were to make a claim, the first question for the court to consider would be whether on the balance of probabilities Chris unlawfully killed Lynette. The second question for the court would be whether the forfeiture rule applied. This would potentially be a very complex exercise involving forensic accounting to work out the current value of Lynette’s estate, given Chris was able to use capital from her estate over a long period of time. Call 1800 821 671 to speak to attwood Marshall Lawyers at our Coolangatta, robina or Kingscliff ofﬁces.

As of 1989 (seven years after Lynette’s disappearance), according to the laws governing distributions of estates

1800 621 071 attwoodmarshall.com.au

Coolangatta | Kingscliff | Robina Town Centre

MOVIE MAGICE: Writer Emma Jenson catches up with Cinemax owner Stephen Buge after a Q&A and screening of Emma’s first movie Mary Shelley at Cinemax.

Reddy for the big screen hit

TWEED Coast-based screenwriter Emma Jenson is fast building up an enviable portfolio. Her first filmed screenplay Mary Shelley came out earlier this year, another about the life of iconic Australian singer songwriter Helen Reddy is filming and she is currently working on bringing How (Not) To Start An Orphanage (the story of Australian Tara Winkler who established the Cambodian Children’s Trust). The talented long-time film industry employee turned to writing in recent times after more than 18 years in the industry and has taken to it like a duck to water but her change in job and recent move from the city to the coast hasn’t been without some crazy experiences. And while having a critically acclaimed first film and getting to see a second actually turning from screenplay to film is surreal enough imagine going to the local studio to do some relaxing yoga and finding the cinema next door is showing your movie. Not only did that happen but owner of Cinemax Kingscliff, Stephen Buge put on a special screening and invited Emma to do a

Q&A. “It’s a treat to do a Q&A like 500m from your home,” she laughed before heading in to talk to the audience (which included her biggest fan – her mum). Growing up in Brisbane, Emma has trekked around the world living in London and LA before deciding to come home, where she met her husband Jason before eventually making a sea change to the Tweed. While she wrote Mary Shelley – the story of how a young woman wrote one of the most influential novels of all time – in Brisbane, it was the quiet seaside town of Kingscliff that proved the perfect place to write her latest script. The Helen Reddy movie – aptly titled I Am Woman is being made by acclaimed director Unjoo Moon in both Sydney and the US and stars the up and coming Tilda Cobham-Hervey. “With Helen I used her biography as source material but I researched outside of that as well because Helen is selective about what she shares,” Emma explained. “And she is alive so you are very conscious of that and of the family. It has been done with Helen’s

full support and the family’s support. But it was a big research project. “Hopefully it will come out at the end of next year on Transmission (like Mary Shelley).” While there was no source book and the idea for the Mary Shelley movie was all her own, this time around Emma was sought out for the project. “Helen Reddy came to me through the producer Rosemary Blight who did The Sapphires and the director Unjoo Moon. Unjoo had met Helen at one of those Australians in LA things and said you have a great story I’d love to tell it,” she said. “Then they approached me and asked if I’d consider writing. “I love music stories and this has music, feminism, the ’70s – so it was tick, tick, tick, tick for me. And it had an iconic song. “The focus is on her friendship with Lillian Roxon who is a rock journalist in New York and then the manager/husband Geoff Wald.” Hopefully, in the next 18 months when I Am Woman is released, it finds its way to the small art house theatre not far from where it was written!

SENIORS \\DECEMBER, 2018

NEWS

DECEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

New method to monitor driving

Talk 'n' thoughts

Gail Forrer Group Editor

DRIVER SAFETY: New technology can help us identify the state of our capacity to keep driving.

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Sensors are also installed to measure the driver’s reaction times

FOR many people realising it’s time to let go of a driver’s license can be one of life’s greatest challenges. Often the ability to drive has meant the freedom to travel when and where you like, no need to rely on other people or deal with public transport. It’s recognition that your body and mind are still fine tuned enough to handle the roads without danger to yourself or others. If you don’t come to terms with ageing (poorer eyesight, less hearing, perhaps some frailty or memory loss) and make your own choice to relinquish your licence, it may mean you have had to concede to the wishes

of people younger (perhaps ones that you may not even feel are wiser) than you and that can be difficult. So it’s heartening to see that modern technology has been employed which can assist with the driving experience. For instance a federally funded project has developed a new Virtual Reality Driving Simulator for Older Drivers targeting people between 70 and 80 years of age. This project is now being trialled in the Inverell district of northern New South Wales and aims to check the driving skills of senior Australians and improve road safety. Called Hector VR, it is touted as a groundbreaking innovation, to enable Australian seniors to live longer, better lives as they are supported to maintain their proficiency on the road. It can also be used to test driving skills and

make the decision to keep driving or not. Developed by aged care provider McLean Care in partnership with Deakin University’s School of Engineering, the trial uses emerging interactive virtual reality, linked with smart sensor technology. The driving simulator is contained in the shell of a Holden Captiva vehicle, to increase the sense of reality for drivers. “Sensors are also installed to measure the driver’s reaction times and heart rate to assess their responses to a variety of situations that can arise when driving,” Member for New England Barnaby Joyce told the National Seniors. “In addition to helping older drivers maintain and test their skills, Hector VR is designed to help those with medical conditions, such as dementia and who can no longer drive, to re-live the driving experience. “The virtual driving

scenarios are modelled on the township of Inverell, including important local buildings, major shopping centres, retail outlets and landmarks, to make the user’s experience as realistic as possible. “The simulator includes differing road environments and realistic scenarios such as country driving and various levels of traffic.” Development of the virtual reality driving simulator was funded through the government’s $34 million Dementia and Aged Care Services grants scheme, which is promoting innovation across the country. * The Federal Government funded $726,000 towards the project. * Info sourced from NationalSeniors: https://nationalseniors. com.au/news/latest/ high-tech-boost-to-road -safety-for-seniors .

Is solar home battery storage worth it?

The uptake of solar battery storage has increased steadily over the last few years as Australian households and businesses look to regain some control over skyrocketing energy bills. However, the financial viability of batteries has held back many consumers from embracing battery storage, until now. SAE Group firmly believes its time the battery equation got a little more appealing and are incredibly excited to bring back the Redback bundle. The 6.6kW system, comprising 24 x 275w Seraphim panels, the Redback Smart Hybrid System, including 4.8kWh of lithium-ion batteries is available for just $12,995, delivering a massive saving of $1,580. The Redback system’s advanced technology intelligently manages and stores solar energy, enabling you to consume more of the solar power you generate and buy less from the grid, all at the fraction of the cost of most other systems on the market. With the option to connect the inbuilt uninterrupted backup power supply in the Redback system to critical circuits in your home, you can rest easy knowing you can have backup power if the grid goes down. Best of all, it’s backed by Redback’s 5-year warranty. The hybrid system offers flexibility too, with the option to add more storage if needed. Complementing the Redback Hybrid unit with Seraphim 275-watt panels, rounds out a high-quality system that is designed to withstand the harshest of Australian climates. The team at SAE Group are Master Electricians first and foremost, so you can also rest easy knowing you’re dealing with highly experienced, qualified staff. From consultation, to quality installation, and after sales service, they are with you the whole way, and offer a 12-year workmanship warranty with every installation. If you’re interested in securing your energy future, or looking for a solution that will protect you from crippling electricity prices, call SAE Group 1300 18 20 50 or jump on their website www.saegroup.com. au, to take advantage of this offer before it runs out.

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*This offer is not available with any other offer. Price includes racking and installation. Single phase power only. Net meter changeover not included. Finance options are available, subject to lending criteria eligibility. Terms and conditions, fees and charges may apply. Travel charges for distance over 70kms from warehouse will apply. Electrical licenses; QLD 72258, NSW 227562C.

SENIORS \\DECEMBER, 2018

Cruise into new cultures And taste the difference

PAGES 16-17

Spread the Word With Seniors Think youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got news and information that needs to be shared? Whether an upcoming community event, heart-warming tale or an update on anything local - we want to tell your story!

Head online to seniorsnews.com.au today!

DECEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Top tips for fishing round the Snowy Mountains Find out the easiest ways to catch Trout in the lakes Nige Webster THE NSW high country is a personal favourite of mine and I’ve spent years of my life fishing here. If you enjoy freshwater trout fishing then this is one of the premier places in the country to travel to. Lakes Tantangara, Eucumbene and Jindabyne are regularly stocked with rainbow and brown trout and Atlantic salmon; they also support a self-sustaining population of brown trout. The rivers that run into these lakes are all well known for fabulous fishing within season. These rivers are closed to fishing during the spawn run of June to October, but the lakes are open year-round. There is a lot of accommodation up here in the way of hotels, motels and caravan parks.

SKILLED RELAXTION: Fishing on Lake Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains

Photos: Destination NSW

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Mid-winter sees the area overrun with ski enthusiasts and expenses rise, so best times of year to travel here include September to May

Mid-winter sees the area overrun with ski enthusiasts and expenses rise, so best times of year to travel here include September to May. I often stay in places like Jindabyne, Kalkite, Old Adaminaby, Providence Portal and the like. My favourite place to stay is Rydges Horizons in Jindabyne which has a beautiful view over the lake. The easiest ways to catch a trout in the lakes is to bait fish – scrub

Nige Webster. worms, mudeyes, yabbies, powerbait – off the banks or troll a lure behind a boat. Two to 4kg rods with six to 10lb breaking strain lines will cover most bases. There are many lures which will catch fish in the lakes: winged Tasmanian Devils, bibbed hardbodies that imitate trout and dive between one and three metres will work well. Getting lures deeper

beneath downriggers is also popular. Trolling attractors with baits behind them is deadly when the weather is really good. Sight fishing the dams with a fly rod or casting streamer flies early, late in the day or at night during summer are proven ways to catch trout on a fly rod. The rivers are simply stunning and walking them with a fishing rod is a treat. Check regulations

ABOVE: Boat on Lake Eucumbene, Snowy Mountains. but most rivers are lure and fly only and closed at times. Next month I will take you on a Darwin fishing trip. Nige Webster works for AFN Fishing & Outdoors and presents and produces The Fishing Show on 7Mate.

Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains.

SENIORS \\DECEMBER, 2018

A new winter cruise tour NORWAY and Iceland – two of the most popular destinations for Australians right now – are showcased in a new 2020 winter cruise tour combination package released by Cruise Express. The 23-night combo tour, which includes 15 nights on land and six at sea, features Norway’s spectacular Northern Lights, a husky sleigh ride, a hotel made of ice, stunning fjords and snow-shrouded villages as well as the volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, glaciers and whales. The journey begins with the 15-night ‘Northern Lights of Norway’ cruise tour which will see Australians fly on January 25, 2020, to Norway’s capital, Oslo, for a two-night stay and tour showcasing the city’s Viking heritage. Guests depart Oslo by train to the renowned fjord country for overnight stays in Voss and Bergen. A tour highlight is a journey on the panoramic Flam Railway – one of the world’s steepest and most picturesque train rides.

SPECTACULAR SHOW: The Northern Lights from Hurtigruten. Rising over 860m, the track traverses a winter wonderland of snowy peaks, icy waterfalls, mighty rivers and whispering pine forests. In contrast, a breathtaking cruise through two spectacular

fjords – Naeroyfjord and Aurlandsfjord – provides perspective of this stunning region from sea level. The tour includes a guided walking tour along the colourful harbour-front of Bergen from where the

itinerary moves to sea for a six-night voyage aboard Hurtigruten’s 690-passenger ship, MS Kong Harald. Named after the king of Norway, the ship serves as a passenger, freight, mail and car service for

Photo: Rjan Bertelsen

isolated Norwegian towns along the coast. Magnificent fjords, mighty glaciers and snow-clad mountains are just some of the picture-postcard spectacles on show during the voyage.

Quaint towns like Trondheim and Alesund offer a chance to experience a different way of life high above the Arctic Circle. After rounding the most northerly point in Europe, North Cape, the voyage ends in the remote town of Kirkenes where guest can stay in accommodation made of snow, see reindeer, join a thrilling husky sled ride and scour the dark, night skies for the swirling colours of the Northern Lights. The Norway tour ends with a flight back to Oslo for a night before flying back to Australia. Guests can add on Cruise Express’ eight-night adventure holiday in Iceland which includes return flights from Oslo to Reykjavik, accommodation and extensive touring taking in Iceland’s dramatic landscape of geysers, lava fields, fjords, thundering waterfalls and abundance of humpback and minke whales. Phone Cruise Express on 1300 766 537 or go to cruiseexpress.com.au.

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*Conditions apply. Prices correct as at 03 Dec 2018 but may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change. Offers subject to availability. Agents may charge service fees, rates vary. Payments by credit card will incur a surcharge. Offer applicable for new bookings only. All savings are included in the advertised price. Flight offer is return ex SYD/MEL/BNE/ADL in economy class and based on an airline of Scenic’s choice. Airfares must be booked through Scenic. Surcharge may apply for Perth and other ports. Price based on MEEE181019 Treasures of Egypt. A non-refundable deposit of $3,000 per person is due within 7 days of booking. Offers may be withdrawn without notice and are not combinable with any other offers unless stated. Please check all prices, availability and other information before booking. Airline Conditions of Carriage, Scenic and Helloworld Travel booking terms and conditions apply, see in store for details. Interest free finance is applied only to promotional transactions for the specified period. Balances outstanding at the end of the promotional period will form part of the normal account balances and will accrue interest at the cash advance rate current at the time. Monthly repayments are required and calculated at 3% of the outstanding balance or $20, whichever is higher. Lending criteria, terms and conditions, fees, and charges apply and are available on application. Credit provided by HSBC Bank Australia Limited ABN 48 006 434 162. Australian credit licence 232595. Applicable through participating stores only, for more details see www.helloworld.com.au/hsbc-booknow-pay-later.

DECEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

‘‘

Drive toward the Southern Peninsulas and explore grand capes with towering spines

A MAGICAL WORLD: Beautiful view of Halong Bay, Vietnam, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Photo: Nikolay Tsuguliev

Live the travel dream This month we profile destinations and experiences 40 to 36 as we count down the 2018 list of the World’s Best Journeys which we hope will inspire you to live life to the full.

THE top 50 bucket list has been selected by Flight Network and over 500 top travel journalists, agencies, bloggers and editors. There are travel experiences to suit different styles and budgets.

DRIVE THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY

❚ CRUISING along the Wild Atlantic Way on Ireland’s west coast harmoniously connects rugged landscapes with unique people, many of who still speak Irish Gaelic. Skirting around the coastline, expansive views and traditional villages captivate drivers along the route from the Northern Headlands down to the Havan Coast. The road opens up as you steer toward the Surf Coast and the wildness of the seaboard captivates with red-gold beaches. Continue driving south towards the Bay Coast to discover crystal coves and islands perfect for swimming, kayaking, and kiteboarding. Ride to Cliff Coast and immerse yourself Ireland’s music

capital, spending the day listening to live bands in local pubs. Drive toward the magnificent Southern Peninsulas and explore grand capes with towering spines extending far out in the ocean before stopping for an overnight stay on the Haven Coast to dine on artisan fare. Getting there: Choose a small but sturdy rental vehicle when arriving at the airport. All of the major airports in the country whether it be Dublin, Shannon or Cork will get you close to the Wild Atlantic Way, but the closest is Shannon Airport with accessible road links to a number of counties along road and is less than an hour from the Cliffs of Moher. For drivers who decide to start their tour at its southernmost point, Cork Airport is just a 20 mile trip.

CRUISE THE MEKONG RIVER

❚ THE Mekong River is one of the most fascinating on the planet. It starts in the Tibetan plateau and snake its way through China, Myanmar, Laos,

Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. It has been an important medium for transporting people and goods for thousands of years and today is an important international trade route. Cruise from the very end of the river north through Vietnam’s Mekong Delta area up into Cambodia’s capital city, where it meets that Tonle Sap and travels through the Cambodian countryside. The scenery is unmatchable and the journey unforgettable. Travellers will transfer from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho Port to board an incredible teak ship that has been specifically built to cruise the Mekong River. Visit local artisan villages, the Gao Giong bird sanctuary, a beautiful Taoist temple and Koh Okhna Tey, otherwise known as silk island. Explore Con Phuoc Island, Koh Trong Island and Phnom Penh, visiting the National Museum, Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, and the Killing Fields and Genocide museum. The journey ends in Siem

Reap staring at the famous Angkor Wat monuments. Getting there: Fly into Tân Son Nhât International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport is the departing airport.

TAKE THE ROAD TO HANA DRIVE

❚ NAVIGATING curves near crashing waves of the Pacific and stopping for tide pool swims beneath waterfalls attracts drivers to a single stretch of Hawaiian coastline. Unrivaled as the top attraction on the lush island of Maui, the Road to Hana drive winds along the 52-mile stretch of coastline from Pa’ia town to the community of Hana. If you’re able to lease a convertible, you’ll have panoramic views of the surf and scenery. Drive from the town of Kahului in central Maui and head towards Hana through the surf town Pa’ia on Maui’s north shore. Tour Maliko Bay before heading to Twin Falls to cool off in one of its natural pools and

waterfalls. Drive up to Honomanu Bay Lookout and stop for a walk on the beach before steering towards the Keanae Peninsula lined with vibrant hibiscus and jagged lava rocks. Reaching the Koolau Forest Reserve, park the car and explore Wai anapanapa State Park where tide pools turn red several times a year due to the arrival of shrimp. Follow the signs to Wailua Falls and awe at the waterfalls cascading over the mountains before ending the drive with a stop Waimoku Falls to gaze up at its magnificent 400 foot waterfall. Getting there: Kahului Airport is east of the Kahului CDP on the island of Maui and is the main airport servicing Maui. You can also fly into Honolulu International Airport on Oahu before commuting to Maui on a brief, 30-minute flight. Major car rental companies are at the airport or you can take a taxi or shuttle bus and lease a cruising vehicle like a convertible. There is also daily ferry service to

SENIORS \\DECEMBER, 2018

Black sand beach,Waianapanapa State Park. Maui, Hawaii.

The epic Irish Landscape and seascape along Ireland’s The Wild Atlantic Way. Champ, down on the valley floor and walk along the crystal stream. Returning to Chamonix, be sure to take a ride on the city’s world-class cable car and get a bird’s eye view of the Mont Blanc massif. Getting there: You can hike alone or benefit from a mountain guide’s experience. Several guide companies are available when you arrive in Chamonix. The most direct way is to fly into Geneva Cointrin International Airport. Once there, you can take an airport transport to Chamonix or hire a car. Another option is to take the Eurostar or TGV train from Paris or Lyon and connect on local train onto Saint Gervais Les Bains where you can pick up the Mont Blanc Express Train into Chamonix. Long Son Pagoda, Nha Trang, Vietnam. and from the nearby island of Lanai.

HIKE THE TOUR DU MONT BLANC

❚ REACHING a cumulative 10,000m of descent and ascent, the Tour de Mont Blanc’s 170km hike is a trekker’s dream with plenty of hotels and mountain huts along the way for taking in the

landscape to its fullest with very little gear. Set out in Chamonix, France, for an 11-day hike towards Les Houches to photo chamois, deer, and eagles during the excursion. Continue ascending to Les Contamines and take in the mountain resort vibe and renowned cuisine. Hike onward to Les

Photo: AND-ONE

Chapieux, a small hamlet on the tour inhabited by shepherds and their flocks. Refuge Elisabetta is next on the route providing a comfortable overnight stay for walkers. Trek to the resort of Courmayeur and take a ride on the SkyWay Monte Bianco cable car and peer at peaks of the Matterhorn and Monte

Rosa. Spend some time at La Vachey, the seasonal inn and restaurant, before hiking to La Fouly to scale winding trails of its mountain peaks. Walk to Champex and take in the culture of the Swiss village. Hike to Trient and take a detour to explore Trent Glacier before continuing to Tre le

MOTORCYCLE FROM HO CHI MINH TO HANOI

❚ TRAVEL from Vietnam’s coast to the highlands with the wind blowing in your face and your heart pumping with excitement the entire way. There is no better way to travel from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi than on a motorcycle, zooming past some incredible scenery. This 2770km ride is

Photo: 7Michael

Photo: upthebanner

equal parts of beach and mountain, giving travellers the chance to be totally immersed in the beauty of Vietnam. The ride is an unforgettable. Weave through highlands, mountains and along coast lines, gazing at magnificent undeveloped beaches, stopping in lonely villages and visiting cultural sites like the Ninh Hoa Salt Fields, Imperial City in Hue, and Vinh Moc Tunnels. Spend time exploring cities, lazing on beaches and sampling regional Vietnamese cuisine. Snap photos of beautiful French colonial architecture, pristine beaches, and the Long Son Pagoda. Wander around Hoi An’s old town, explore the Tràng An Scenic Complex and ride the Vinpearl Cable Car. Visit must-sees and find hidden gems, but most importantly, enjoy the ride! Getting there: Fly into Tân Son Nhât International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. Check the dates of the 6-day Vietnamese New year before booking your flights to try to avoid motorcycling from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi at this time. The roads will be congested with locals much more dangerous to be on.

DECEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

OCEAN RACES: The Rolex Sydney Hobart is a 628 nautical mile yacht race.

Tasmania in the summer of bubbles, music and arts

SOME of the best food, wine, visual and sensory entertainment is on offer in Tasmania during this summer. Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race Hobart: December 26, 2018 – January 1, 2019 The fleet blow into Hobart from December 27, weather permitting. Be at the Hobart Race Village at Constitution Dock to welcome the salt-laden sailors as they cross the line after travelling 628 nautical miles from Sydney. Wander the docks after the race and listen to the fascinating race stories – watch and listen on as the yachties debrief and recall tales (tall and otherwise) of the open ocean. Info: rolexsydney hobart.com. Taste of Tasmania, Hobart: December 28 – January 3, 2019 Celebrate the way Tasmania eats, drinks and socialises at the 30th annual festival. What began as a small

waterfront festival within easy reach of the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race finish line to feed and entertain the sailors has morphed into the largest food festival in Australia. This year there is a curated culinary kitchen program featuring the best food talent in Tasmania presenting workshops, masterclasses and tastings, as well as more than 100 stallholders open from 11am-11pm daily and a vibrant program of live music across four stages. Entry is free (except for the ticketed New Year’s Eve party) and tickets to the events are selling fast. More information at thetasteoftasmania .com.au. Falls Music and Arts Festival, Marion Bay: December 29 – January 1, 2019 The 26th annual festival line up includes international acts Chvrches, Anderson Paak

Tasmania has a wide selection of wines for visitors to taste during their summer visit. & The Free Nationals, Toto and Dizzee Rascal, and home-grown heroes Vance Joy, Flight Facilities and Amy Shark. Head along to The Village, a family-friendly space with circus shows, kid’s comedians, face painting, yoga sessions, treasure hunts and more. The beach is a short stroll away and there are plenty of food and drink options to keep the foodies

With over 70 stallholders, this festival offers fabulous food and free family activities.

entertained too. Info: fallsfestival.com. Hobart International Tennis, Hobart: January 6-12, 2019 This is Tasmania’s premier international women’s sporting event and a lead in tournament for players to fine-tune their preparations ahead of the Australian Open. Having hosted some of the biggest names in tennis like Serena

Williams, Dinara Safina and Australian number one Sam Stosur, the tournament promises top on court action as well as premium food trucks with fantastic local fare, a beer garden and the chance to win a meet and greet with the women’s singles champion post-match. More information at hobartinternational. com.au. Cygnet Folk Festival, Cygnet: January 11-13, 2019 Into folk music? Head to the 37th annual Cygnet Folk Festival to enjoy more than 100 acts in the picturesque town of Cygnet, an hour south of Hobart in the Huon Valley. This is Tasmania’s leading celebration of folk and world music, dance, poetry, performance art, food and culture and is highly regarded by musicians and festival-goers from all over Australia and overseas. The competition to get on stage is fierce and the punters are the

The Falls Music & Arts Festival is an annual event..

beneficiaries. In 2019 enjoy musical performances as well as workshops, dances and market stalls. Tickets: cygnetfolkfestival. org/tickets. Mona Foma Launceston: January 13-20, 2019 Mona Foma is back for another year of mayhem, this time based in Launceston. Mona’s summer festival will welcome artists from Australia and overseas such as Courtney Barnett, Neneh Cherry and Underworld, who will perform alongside a program of arts trails, morning meditations and of course, the famous onesie party. Australian artist and designer Adele Varcoe has teamed up with Finnish clothing label Self-Assembly to create over 2000 DIY onesies (no sewing machines required) for the event. Tickets: monafoma. net.au.

SENIORS \\DECEMBER, 2018

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DECEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Stay close to the ground

On Foot Holidays in France ON FOOT Holidays has announced a new walking route in the picturesque Dordogne region of southwest France, their fourth in the country. The new, self-guided, inn-to-inn walk follows the Dordogne River through classic French countryside and medieval villages and is ideal for Australians looking to experience a taste of quintessential France. On Foot Holidays has designed the Dordogne route so walkers can feel like a local as they take in the less-travelled byways and backwaters of the Middle Dordogne landscapes and the unique flavour of the Dordogne Valley. Beginning in the medieval city of Beaulieu sur Dordogne, the seven-night walk takes travellers through the Dordogne valley’s country meadows and picturesque villages as guests stay in traditional inns and hotels along the riverside, experiencing local life and authentic French cuisine. After four days of walking amongst the hills and quaint villages above the charming countryside, the route heads over the limestone plateau to the striking village of Rocamadour. The village climbs up a cliff face and is a pilgrimage destination that sees over one million people visit each year. The journey comes to an end alongside the Ouysse river, a tributary of the Dordogne, at a

Michelin-starred restaurant to celebrate the end of the walk. The seven-night walking holiday is graded medium with up to five and a half hours of walking each day (shortening options usually offered). Including seven nights’ accommodation, seven breakfasts, four evening meals and all luggage transfers – meaning travellers simply carry a day pack – the route costs from £1060 per person, twin-share (approximately A$1869 depending on exchange rates). Shorter six, five and four-night options are also available. Payments can be made by via Earthport FX transfer, a system which offers Australians the convenience of paying for walks in Australian dollars at a local bank, saving transfer charges and credit card fees. The Dordogne inn-to-inn walk is available from May 2019. On Foot Holidays offers 33 self-guided walking tours across Europe. Accommodation and information packs are provided for all the routes and optional guides are available on select itineraries. Walkers select their departure dates, luggage is transferred between inns each day and all routes are designed by locals and tested by staff from On Foot Holidays. Visit onfootholidays.co.uk for more information.

STRIKING BEAUTY: Dordogne, village of Beaulier-su..

Dordogne, village of Carennac.

Dordogne walk.

Smithy and wife know the right way to out back Ann Rickard EVER since he was eight years old, Alan ‘Smithy’ Smith has known the Australian outback is unique to the world. Way ahead of his time, he held a deep love for the outback and would spend days wandering into the bush from his home in Blackall, Central West Queensland. “As a child whenever we had visitors, I would take them out to some amazing places,” he said. “Sometimes the visitors were blown away with the simple things, the bush, the petrified wood, the stories about what the families had done in developing the land, the pioneer shearers. “My family owned a soft drink factory for 34 years

in Blackall. “I was always engaged in different parts of the community and there was an amazing mix of characters in the community. Lots of stories to tell.” By the time he was 21, Smithy knew he had to share his love of the bush and his prodigious knowledge with others and start a small tour company. That was 30 years ago in 1988 before our outback had much of a profile. “There were not the visitors that there are now,” he said. “I started with a billy made from a three-litre juice tin, a camp oven, a troop carrier, photocopied brochures and an answering machine. I traded in my little 4WD and convinced the bank to

ON TOUR: Alan and Sue Smith. lend me $28,000.” That was the beginning of Outback Aussie Tours. Surviving in a remote marginal area was tough but Smithy had the confidence, in-depth knowledge and as many stories as there are stars in the sky. “Looking back, I realised I pushed (tour

Photo: Contributed

guests) them too hard, I was so eager to share,” he said. “I learnt and developed smaller packages, one was to drive to Longreach, collect wood on the way, light a fire, boil a billy, give them a cup of tea while I mixed the damper, throw the damper in the camp oven, take people to look

for petrified wood, come back and have tea and damper. That worked well.” Now Smithy, with his wife Sue, runs short break packages from Longreach, Charleville and Brisbane to iconic destinations including Winton, Birdsville, Corner Country, Gulf Savannah and Cape York and the Torres Strait. “Now it is a lot of fun, but I worked hard in the beginning, juggled three jobs, a cleaning business, packing supermarket shelves,” Smithy said. “I had to survive and buy new equipment. Then the grey nomad market started coming. Then the Midlander train twice a week. “In those early days, the Hall of Fame had just opened in Longreach, I

would get down to the train, pull on my jacket and big hat, walk through the train with brochures doing promotion. “I bought my own little mini bus and doubled my fleet.” Three decades later, with the outback now a major tourism destination, Smithy can say he was one of the pioneer tourism operations. He has many return guests and made countless friends. “A lot of American tourists have stayed in touch,” he said. “We have fantastic encounters with wildlife, but it is the stories the people love the most and meeting the people who live here.” To find out more, go to outbackaussietours. com.au.

SENIORS \\DECEMBER, 2018

Staring down the demon of dementia

Wellbeing

Alison Houston “SOME days the Devil whispers ‘You are not strong enough to withstand the storm’ ... and some days I get up and say ‘Today, I am the storm’.” The closing words to Sarah Ashton’s presentation on the lived experience of dementia earned her a standing ovation at the 10th International Arts and Health Conference last month. Sarah, from Port Macquarie, was one of several speakers with the courage to share their mental health struggles to help others better understand their condition. None sought or engendered pity, instead displaying their incredible inner strength to not just cope and reclaim control of their own lives but actively work to help others. “My life got turned upside down the moment I got this diagnosis,” Sarah acknowledged. But she has discovered ways to manage what she calls “the everyday frustrations”. All her bills, for example are on auto payment. She has diaries everywhere detailing her appointments and what she needs to do. She has clocks and calendars everywhere “in case I want to check what day I think it is today”.

EYE OF THE STORM: Sarah Ashton earned a standing ovation as she told how she has organised her life to cope with dementia and to help others do the same. Photos: Nadine Fisher She keeps busy socialising, as a member of various groups, doing advocacy work including Joining the Dots for Dementia, taking part in research, doing art and craft, listening to music and caring for her pets and her garden. She recently won the Impromptu section of her Toastmasters International area speaking competition and will compete at the District competition next March. Looking after your diet, walking or exercising every day, engaging in intellectual exercises such as puzzles, brain training, games and

reading were also important. Legal paperwork, she urged, must be put in order as soon as you receive a diagnosis, so you are still considered legally competent to truly know your wishes. That included a professionally written will, advanced care directive and power of attorney, all with “meat and bite” as to where you want to live, and what is to happen to the assets if your home has to be sold if you need higher level care. But she admitted the challenge of dealing with aspects of dementia and “pretending to be a functional adult” was

exhausting. She described dementia as a process of loss. “Your brain being torn apart from your body and mind” and warned what was once seen as an older person’s affliction, was now striking all ages, even a young mother. “No one is immune,” she said. Still, she said, she has hope because “hope opens people’s eyes”. For information on Alzheimer’s and other forms of Dementia go to dementia.org.au or phone the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.

Sarah Ashton.

Helping older Australians retain their independence BRAND INSIGHTS

HELPING HAND: The AbiBird sensor is placed in the home of your older loved one and tracks daily activity in their home. Photo: Christian Quinlan

HEALTH data shows falls are now one of the leading causes of hospital admissions for Australians over 65, and with more Aussies living in their own homes longer, 60 per cent of all falls now occur at home. AbiBird has been developed in Australia to support people who want to retain their independence as they age. The AbiBird sensor is placed in the home of your older loved one and tracks daily activity in their home. The sensor then shares

this information on the smartphone of a carer or family member. If activity stops, or is unusual, AbiBird sends an alert to the AbiBird app on your smartphone. A quick glance at your smartphone can let you know whether your loved one is OK, or if they may need attention. A key difference between AbiBird and other products is that AbiBird is not a wearable device and it does not need an internet or telephone connection. AbiBird has also been designed to maintain privacy, there is no camera or audio

recording. One or two AbiBird sensors is enough for a typical home and AbiBird can be installed in less than a few minutes. You simply turn it on, download the free AbiBird app and confirm or change the settings. Replacing the batteries once a year when alerted is the only maintenance required. The AbiBird solution is available for a free one month trial and thereafter it is only $20 per month. There are no installation fee or lock-in contracts. Go to abibird.com.au, or phone 1300 132 121.

WELLBEING

DECEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Hervey Bay VIEW Club members visit the Maryborough War Memorial.

Members of the Glasshouse Country VIEW Club.

Fine ideas for busy kids

WE HAVE reached out to some of the many clubs that contribute their monthly news to Seniors News to share their great ideas for grandkid and great-grandkid holiday activity ideas.

PROBUS CLUB OF BURLEIGH WATERS

Grandchildren can use their imagination to create all kinds of great items, such as: ■ Christmas bells from egg cartons – cut out the raised bell-shaped parts. ■ Christmas pom pom balls using polystyrene balls, wire and art flowers, bows and ribbons. ■ Decorate pine cones using spray paint and glitter. ■ Lanterns – make from coloured paper. ■ Christmas decorations – create stars and other shapes from coloured cardboard. ■ Cooking is so much fun – gingerbread people, Christmas trees, chocolate fudge squares, chocolate or apricot balls, muesli bar squares (these can all be made in a microwave). ■ Make your own gifts such as lavender-filled pillows about 8cm square,

plus allowance for seam. ■ Also, make ribbons and bows for dressing up other gifts. ■ Christmas table – make napkins and design your own centrepiece. ■ Christmas bon bons – use toilet roll, paper towel centres, coloured paper and ribbon.

HERVEY BAY VIEW CLUB

For grandparents to share some activity with the grandchildren, all it takes is a bit of imagination and simple everyday items. To start, all you need is some white cardboard, scissors, glue, pencil, coloured texta pens, old Christmas cards and you are under way. Let the kids use their own imagination and ideas. If able, let them cut out pictures from the old cards and glue onto the blank cardboard cards, use their own words and writing to and from inside the card and enjoy their display of pride at having made the card themselves. Decorations for the Christmas tree can be made the same way...

OUT AND ABOUT: Probus Club of Burleigh Waters members on outing to Brunswick Heads. bells and more from silver or gold paper.

U3A TWIN TOWNS, TUGUN ■ Creating a cubby from cardboard boxes. ■ Make a Christmas tree from a tree branch, painting it white and hanging it with decorations made by the kids. ■ Cook coconut ice or fudge and make little boxes to hold it – give it as a gift. ■ Go on a walk and get the children to draw what they saw while out, and accompany it with a short

description. ■ Make a book out of folded A4 paper and write a sentence or two on each page with an accompanying drawing. ■ Make up bubble mixture and have fun blowing bubbles. ■ Make a kite with lots of colours and streamers and fly it. ■ Press some flowers. ■ Create a diorama, which is a fun way to build an exciting scene in a small space.

GLASSHOUSE COUNTRY VIEW CLUB

View clubs struggle each year to make enough library bags for the Smith Family’s Learning for Life students who are unable to make their own. These are easy enough for grandparents to teach their grandchildren how to make; all you need is some bright and interesting (for young ones) material. Doing this activity can help the grandkids feel that they are helping those in less fortunate circumstances. For more information on what sizes for the bags, phone Janet on 0448 845 303 or Gillian on (07) 5496 9474.

PROBUS CLUB OF COFFS CITY

Some great activities seniors can share with youngsters include: ■ Cooking. ■ Puzzles. ■ Memory games. ■ Reading children’s stories. ■ Charades.

GRAFTON SENIOR CITIZENS

Our grandmothers suggest: ■ At home – cooking, especially pikelets; French

knitting; colouring-in; making Christmas decorations and cards; making pasta necklaces, button pictures and wooden spoon dolls. ■ Out of the home – join in the local shopping centre activities including painting of plaster moulds, magic sand and tie-dyeing; check out the activities at the local library.

TOOWOOMBA MEN’S SHED

■ Spend time with the grandkids as they cycle around the local park. ■ Get them to take you to a local historical site and ask them to guide you around the site and tell you all about it. ■ Visit your nearest library. ■ Make cards from pieces of paper, cardboard, stamps and anything else you have stored in your craft room or box. ■ Visit the local museum and National Trust locations to see their current exhibitions. ■ Show the grandkids how to fix little things around the house like pumping up bike tyres.

Love, kindness and sharing are best gifts

GENERATIONS UNITED: Sharing the love.

Photo: LaylaBird

OUR readers have voted overwhelmingly for love and cuddles above all else when choosing the best Christmas present for their grandkids. It appears that material goods aren’t what grandparents think makes Christmas time special – it’s lots of love from the family. A few other gift ideas

from our Facebook followers are: ■ Leone said lots of cuddles. ■ Joy suggests time, laughter, outings, hugs and encouragement. ■ Helen wants to take her grandkids to the snow to see Santa and the reindeers. ■ Fay wants to give them money so they can

buy the gift that they want. ■ Michelle suggests time, games, hugs and lots of kisses. And one of our favourites from Nan: I love my 6-year-old grandson’s idea of buying gifts and putting them in the collection for children who need them more than him. His very own idea too xxx.

SENIORS \\DECEMBER, 2018

Living

Seniors’ Stories, Volume 4 is in libraries and online now.

Seniors’ Stories, Volume 4 editor Colleen Parker.

The right age to write Authors explore life through books

Tracey Johnstone THE NSW Seniors Card Short Story Competition reveals the hidden talent of the state’s older writers who have shared their stories on positive ageing. Of the more than 200 submissions received through the competition website, 100 stories were selected and published in the annual Seniors’ Stories, Volume 4 which was launched by the NSW Minister for Ageing Tanya Davies. “This book is a wonderful example of talent, experience and wisdom of seniors who are living their lives among us,” Minister Davies said. “It’s wonderful this book gives a platform to our community to share their story.” Two stories that caught the minister’s eye were Julie Davis’ On the Three-Twenty-Four and Pam Reynolds’ Maybe the Best is Yet to Be. “Julie wrote, ‘Four carriages. Bummer. It’ll be packed, standing room only to Wollongong’,” Minister Davies read out. “It’s a wonderful story of your experience; very sad and very revealing story about the challenges we as a society still face with ageism, ageist attitudes and with aged discrimination.” Mrs Davis, 79, collects her short story ideas from the people she meets and

TELL YOUR STORY: Seniors’ Stories, Volume 4 contributor Julie Davis with her husband Ronald at the launch of the book. Photos: Salty Dingo / Contributed sees on the Wollongong to city train. “It’s not an autobiographical story; bits of it are, but it is fiction,” a delighted Mrs Davis said. “When I submitted it, I thought they will just think it’s a bit of a rant because everybody is complaining about the trains down our way.”

‘‘

This book is a wonderful example of talent, experience and wisdom of seniors “The postscript to this story is our government has now expanded that

train service to eight carriages,” the minister added.

Pam Reynolds’ story delves into starting retirement and what it is all about. “I asked many retired people what they did all day, but I never go a very satisfactory answer. Most were “so busy” and life as “pretty good”, but they never actually told me how. It was all very vague and unsettling,” Mrs

Reynolds writes early on in her short story. “It’s wonderful to see how well you have (now) adapted and embraced retirement,” Minister Davies added. Never too old, never too late The stories cover a wide selection of positive ageing themes. The creative headings also caught the eye of the editor, Colleen Parker of the NSW branch of the Fellowship of Australian Writers – Recycled Teenager, Hello You! and Dogs and Dongles. “The book is a montage of our social history,” Mrs Parker said. “Lots of Australian idiosyncrasies included kids and billycarts, bush life, immigration, assimilation, war facts, friendships and fatalities, family research and pilgrimages.” In the lead up to finalising their stories, writers were given the opportunity to participate in free writing workshops held in the major regions across NSW. It’s the ultimate prize to be published There are no winners for this writing competition other than the joy of authors seeing their efforts being published. There is however something for everyone in the Seniors’ Stories, Volume 4 book Mrs Parker promises. Loan copies of Seniors’ Stories, Volume 4 are in libraries across NSW. The book can also be downloaded for free from seniorscard.nsw.gov.au. READ THE STORIES It’s Seniors News’ pleasure to publish two of these stories – please go to page 30 in this edition to read and enjoy. — Gail Forrer

LIVING

DECEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

To be alert not alarmed BRAND INSIGHTS “DON’T self-monitor a medical alert device. Just DON’T do it.” Paul Joseph, the heart and soul behind Emergency Medical Services Pty Ltd, is emphatic on this point. His company supply the safeTwear medical alert device, but more importantly also provide 24/7 monitoring for them. “I’ve heard so many horror stories over the years from customers who come to us because self-monitoring went horribly wrong,” he said. “Having a family member or friend responsible for the medical alerts is a terrible idea. It puts enormous pressure on them to be by their phone and available to take the call. “Imagine the guilt you would carry if you missed a call from your loved one that resulted in injury or worse, death! I would never want to put that kind of pressure onto the people I love. “As well as that, often the person wearing the medical alert device won’t push the button because they don’t want to be a nuisance. “Having a professional, independent, specialist response centre with experienced responders manage the emergencies is far better than relying on friends and family. “Our response team are trained professionals who deal with medical emergencies every day. “They are calm, fast acting, and know the right information to collect to ensure the ambulance has everything they need, including the customers

SKILLED: Our response team are trained professionals who deal with medical emergencies every day. exact location and full medical history on screen. “Because in an emergency situation, every second and the small details count.” Paul’s extensive experience in this medical alert and the home security industry has equipped him well to put together this service offering that is literally saving lives. “We also save grey hairs! The stress of false alarms on family members is almost as bad as an actual emergency, especially if they miss the call for any reason,” he said. “They might be showering, at the movies, deep asleep or in a work meeting, typically a

Our response team are trained deal with medical emergencies every day. person isn’t connected to their phone 24/7 despite the fact it feels like we

are. “Each month we deal with thousands of false

alarms and every alarm is treated as an emergency until we can determine

otherwise. The response team are available 24 hours a day, sevem days a week, 365 days a year.” “We actually call it the ‘Danger of SelfMonitoring’ because to us, it is that serious. “Friends and family will often panic in these situations and fail to collect the relevant information the ambulance will need. Just don’t do it, I can’t stress it enough. “With the holiday season approaching we have some excellent deals for seniors which include the medical alert device and in certain cases a lifetime of monitoring. Call us today for more information (1300 699 159).”

Clarifying your TV audio hearing BRAND INSIGHTS

The TV Voice Pro system is guaranteed to connect in under two minutes to any TV in Australia.

HEARING Specialists have developed a new wireless headset specifically for those with hearing loss to clarify television audio. The headset was developed following extensive hearing assessments of over 1000 people with hearing loss who struggle to hear the TV clearly. Hearing specialist Don Hudson says the TV Voice Pro headset will deliver better clarity for TV audio than even the world’s best hearing aids. This comes down to the fact that the original audio

for TV is often highly inconsistent. “The clarity of the TV audio itself is often highly variable, as many channels differ dramatically in the clarity of the dialogue, and the volume is often changing too. We know as hearing specialists that hearing aids find it hard to correct this problem, as the originating problem is how the audio has been mixed for each TV program.” The new wireless TV Voice Pro headset overcomes this problem by altering the original TV audio. The adjustment to the TV audio puts a deliberate

focus on speech frequencies to clarify TV dialogue for the user. “The TV Voice Pro headset automatically recalibrates the TV audio to focus on speech frequencies, so the user can hear the dialogue clearly. With adequate volume control function, it will work to clarify TV audio for those with any level of hearing loss.” The wireless TV Voice Pro headset weighs just 70 grams and allows wearers to listen to television at their own preferred volume without affecting the audio volume for others in the room.

It uses RF transmission to allow wireless use from anywhere in the house, up to 20 metres. The TV Voice Pro system is guaranteed to connect in under two minutes to any TV in Australia. It is a rechargeable device and no batteries are required. The purchase price is $349. TV Voice Pro comes with a 30-day money back guarantee. To order, ph; 1300 300 446 or online, go to TvVoicePro.com.au. TV Voice pro is currently offering free express courier deliver for all pre-Christmas orders.

SENIORS \\DECEMBER, 2018

What's on Tania Phillips Journalist

renowned yoga instructors. Discover the future with a psychic reading, experience a Shamanic drumming, connect with the souls journey in a transformational workshop, or simply relax and browse the main hall markets and enjoy live music and vegan cafe.

BALLINA BOWLS SUMMERLAND SERIES

THE FALLS

FALLS is a multi day camping event kicking off at the end of December in Lorne, Victoria and Marion Bay, Tasmania and Byron Bay, New South Wales. The festival brings tunes from around the globe and art that gets you involved. The festival was created in 1993 from a campfire idea. It was on the home of Falls, the very farm at Lorne in Victoria where it is still held each year. The local event is held at the North Byron Parklands.

BALLINA BOXING DAY RACES

THE Ballina Boxing Day Races are happening at the Ballina Jockey Club on Wednesday, December 26 so frock up and get ready

BETWEEN NATURE AND SIN

UNIQUE EXPERIENCE: The Starlight Festival is held at the A&H Hall Bangalow and will be on again next year, from January 3-6. for a fun filled day in the sun. This is an exciting event to be a part of. Proof of age will need to be shown prior to entry. Children under 18 must be supervised at all times. For more information, go to ballinajockeyclub.com.au.

NORTH COAST STREET MACHINE CAR CLUB

NORTH Coast Street Machines car club will celebrate their 29th annual Show ‘n’ Shine at Ballina Rugby League Grounds on January 13. The gates will open for entrants at 7am and to be set up by 9am. There will be a variety of street machines, vintage and veteran cars, hot rods and special interest vehicles. Some of the planned activities on the day will include lucky entrants draw during the afternoon, trade displays to entice you with their merchandise, fully catered for (food and refreshments), activities all day to keep the kids occupied and wheel changing competition. For more information, go to northcoaststreet machines.com.au.

KYOGLE BAZAAR

KYOGLE Bazaar, December 23 is supported by Kyogle Together a non-profit organisation where all proceeds are returned to local community programs. Held at the Amphitheatre in the heart of Kyogle (behind the information centre). Stalls are centred around handmade but also include plants, bric-a-brac, local produce, woodwork, leathercraft and support stalls for local community groups. For further information phone Sandii Davie on 0457 471 583 (leave message), email bazaar@kyogle together.org.au, or go to www.facebook.com/ kyoglebazaar.

CHRISTMAS CUP RACE DAY

THE Christmas Cup, December 21 at Lismore features a three course Christmas lunch served feasting tables comprises of a seafood entrée, Christmas lunch main and dessert. This is accompanied by a five hour beverage package to supply an all-inclusive event. The cost of $120 ($100

for members) per head also includes racecourse and member’s lounge entry, race book. Or simply come and throw a picnic rug down on the grass and enjoy the day. With plenty of action on course the Christmas Cup is a great day out for everyone. 11am-7pm. Fixed Price: Adult $10, Concession $6, Lismore Turf Club, Woodlawn Road, Lismore.

INTRODUCTION TO SILVER SMITHING

LEARN the basics of silversmithing in a relaxed, country setting in Tyalgum, northern NSW on January 5. During the course of the day you will become familiar with the fundamental tools of the trade, learn how to cut, saw, anneal, solder, texture and finish a ring, which will be yours to keep. Classes run from 10am-4pm on a Saturday, and are for up to six students, to allow for individualised tuition. Full payment is required upon booking to secure your place. Overnight accommodation packages are available with Celestial Dew Guesthouse, conveniently

located right next door to Flutterbies Cafe, and just a short stroll from the studio. For more information, go to osirisjewellery.com/ collections/workshops.

STARLIGHT FESTIVAL

BATHE in the Divine sounds of the Crystal Singing Bowls each morning at the Starlight Festival at the A&I Hall Bangalow, January 3-6. Enjoy all day yoga, with Byron Bays most

THE exhibition, Between Nature and Sin – be held at the Lismore Regional Art Gallery from early December through to February 24, features a decade of past paintings, photographs, videos, and the premiere of Cowboy Country, David Griggs’ first feature film. David Griggs explores the darker undercurrents of human existence. His work, predominantly portraiture, focuses on the human condition; drawing on political imagery, underground media, local histories and personal experience presented nationally by Museums & Galleries of NSW.

Do you want to know how to store your fruit and vegetables in your fridge, so that they stay fresh for more than two weeks?

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ONE of the region’s most prestigious bowling tournaments will be held in Ballina late December. Running from December 26 through to January 4 is the Summerland Series. The event attracts players from interstate, New Zealand and other overseas countries. There will be approximately 300 bowlers who participate in the event, as well as more than 300 spectators. Participants will be competing for $24,500 in prizemoney. The event is divided into Summerland Singles and Summerland Pairs. The Pairs tournament will run over three days, with three days break and then the Singles tournament runs a further four days. Finals are held the day after the Singles tournament. For more information, go to cherrystreet.com.au/ sports/bowls.

On returning from a threeweek Christmas holiday, all my vegetables were as I left them in these bags in the fridge – fresh and ready to eat. I have been Roslyn Roberts using these amazing bags Hammond Village for more than two years and Coombabah, QLD they are still going strong. Bags are washable and reusable and can be kept anywhere in the fridge - on shelves, in the fridge door and the crisper. To purchase immediately visit www.superfreshbags.com.au or call

Super Fresh Bags on 02 9631 0143.

Win an Event Cinemas Merry Movies Gift card!

Buy a movie gift card in cinema or at eventcinemas.com.au

including Bumblebee, Aquaman, Disney’s ‘Mary Poppins

Movie gift card. You choose the value, they choose the

Returns’, How To Train Your Dragon – A Hidden World and many

experience! Movie Gift Cards can be used at any Event Cinemas location and for their choice of tickets including the big screen experience of Vmax or the laid back luxury of Gold

more! Give more than just a gift, give experiences. Buy Movie Gift Cards now at the box office or eventcinemas.com.au Thanks to Event Cinemas, we have 10 Merry Movies

Class and food and beverage!

gift cards to give away, each worth $50. To be in the draw, just

There are so many great blockbusters coming up to see

fill in our form online at seniorsnews.com.au/competitions

^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 17/12/18-1/2/19. Competition drawn 10am 4/2/19 at Cnr Mayne Rd and Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006. Winners announced in Seniors March Edition 2019. Total prize value $500.00 (including GST). Entry is open to all permanent residents of Queensland, residing in the Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast and Toowoomba Seniors distribution areas and NSW in the Northern NSW, Central Coast and Coffs & Clarence Seniors distribution areas. NSW Permit Number LTPM/18/03133

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GIVE MOVIES THIS CHRISTMAS

Say ‘Merry Movies’ this Christmas with an Event Cinemas

NEWS

Boost to upskill seniors

ARE you looking for a new career before retirement but are having a rough time matching your skills to the dream job? The government has announced a $17.4 million boost to help mature-aged Australians to upskill or transition into new careers through the Skills Checkpoint for Older Workers Program. “Older Australians are our most experienced workforce, contributing greatly to the economy and we want to make sure we are providing access to the skills they need for the jobs of today and tomorrow,” Minister for Small and Family Business, Skills and Vocational Education, Senator Michaelia Cash said. The four-year commitment is expected to provide 20,000 eligible Australians – between the ages of 45 and 70 – with advice and guidance on taking the next step in their careers. “The Skills Checkpoint Program uses individually tailored assessments and referrals, to provide workers with advice on how best to use their skills in the workforce, or identify opportunities for upskilling,” Minister Cash said. “It can also refer participants to educational and training opportunities to assist with transitioning to a new role in their industry or an entirely new career.” Go to education.gov.au/ skillscheckpointprogram

DECEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Revving up for style Show the love for Peaches Tania Phillips IT WAS love at first sight when Candy met Peaches – and five years down the track they are still inseparable. The pair will be an important part of the North Coast Street Machines Car Club’s 29th annual Show-n-Shine at the Ballina Rugby League Grounds from on Sunday, January 13. Candy Fitness is the co-ordinator of the event, while Peaches will be one of the attractions you see – Peaches is her 1964 EH Holden in quandong (or peach, if you prefer). “I just fell in love with her – my father had one the same colour and my first ride out of the hospital was in that car so there was a lot of nostalgia,” Candy, whose husband already had a black 1962 Valiant when Candy met Peaches. “It was kind of meant to be – we met this chap and saw the car – he said it might be coming on the market it took over 12 months but in the end he really wanted me to have it and gave us a discount. “I love her she is so beautiful – no scratches or dents.” The North Coast Street Machines Show-n-Shine has become one of the big events on the North

VINTAGE VALUE: Cindy and ‘Peaches’ will be part of the North Coast Street Machines Car Club’s 29th annual Show-n-Shine at the Ballina Rugby League Grounds on Sunday, January 13. Coast calendar and attracts all sorts of Street machines, vintage and veteran cars, hot rods and special interest vehicles. But it’s not just all about the cars these days, with a Retro Fashion Pageant being included for the first time last year. Candy, who runs Candylane Fashion Boutique in Alstonville,

Here for our community 24-7 The Westpac Rescue Helicopter is here for our community and this holiday season we will be ready to respond 24-7. Please stay safe and thank you for your support. To donate or for more information call 1800 155 155 or visit www.helirescue.com.au 1800 155 155 | www.helirescue.com.au

said the event had attracted a lot of interest and they expected it to be bigger and better this year. She said pageant would include girls from a variety of divisions, Babe, Teen, Vixen and Pearl. Best dressed categories include 6-12 years, 12-20, 20-40 and over 40s.

“So pull out your favourite retro, vintage and pin-up frocks and accessories to dazzle up the Show-n-Shine,” Candy said. She said it would be a chance to “frock up in your finest retro, vintage and rockabilly clothing to be in the draw for some amazing prizes”. Other events on the day

include lucky entrants draw during the afternoon, trade displays, catering, activities for the kids (including a free jumping castle) as well as all of the cars to check out (and try to guess who will be named champion). Go to northcoaststreet machines.com.au for more information.

SENIORS \\DECEMBER, 2018

How much retirement money is enough? Multiple opinions surround a comfortable living

Tony Kaye THERE’S an old joke that if you ask three economists for their views on the economy, you are likely to get at least four answers. To an extent, the same variance in views appears to be the case when it comes to answering the question: how much money does one need to live a comfortable retirement? Or more to the point, do most Australians have enough funds to last them

through their life? The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia calculates that to have a ‘comfortable’ retirement, single people will need $545,000 in retirement savings, and couples will need $640,000. Such balances would generate $42,950 per annum for a single, and $60,604 for couples, according to ASFA, which assumes the retirees own their own home outright and are relatively healthy. Yet, how much is needed to be comfortable in retirement does depend on who you ask. A new study by the public policy think tank Grattan Institute suggests that the conventional wisdom that Australians don’t save enough for retirement is wrong, and that the vast majority of current and future retirees are likely to be financially comfortable. Grattan says its modelling shows that,

even after allowing for inflation, most workers can expect a retirement income of at least 91 per cent of their pre-retirement income. Furthermore, it says that through a combination of the Age Pension and their compulsory superannuation savings, many low-income earners will actually get a pay rise when they retire. “Australians tend to spend less after they retire, and even less into old age,” according to the study’s authors, John Daley and Brendan Coates. “Their medical costs increase, but are largely covered by the taxpayer. “Many retirees are net savers, and current retirees often leave a legacy almost as large as their nest egg on the day they retired.” They note that loosening the Age Pension assets test could boost retirement incomes for around 20 per cent of

Money

‘‘

Australians tend to spend less after they retire, and even less into old age. retirees, rising to more than 70 per cent of retirees in the future. This would also deal with anomalies in the system, where some people who save $100 while working increase their total retirement income by less than $100 in real terms. But the institute has hit a raw nerve with Industry Super Australia (ISA), the umbrella organisation for industry superannuation funds, in suggesting that the legislated plan to increase compulsory superannuation contributions from 9.5 per cent to 12 per cent should be scrapped. Grattan said because it believes most Australians will be comfortable in

retirement, there is no need to boost retirement incomes across the board. In addition, it states that superannuation tax breaks and age-based tax breaks should be reduced to ensure the retirement incomes system does not become an excessive burden on future budgets and endanger funding for aged care and health. However, the ISA says Grattan’s modelling showing the current 9.5 per cent Superannuation Guarantee levy will deliver adequate incomes for future retirees is “deeply flawed”. ISA says the research’s flaws include assuming that everyone can top up

their super with extra voluntary contributions; that workers have a continuous, uninterrupted 37-year working life and contributions; and that living standards in retirement shouldn’t keep pace with the rest of the community. Ultimately, most Australians will want to have created a sizeable nest egg for their retirement to ensure they can have a reasonably comfortable lifestyle. But how much we should have saved for retirement depends on who you ask. With average life expectancies continuing to rise, one thing is indisputable: the professional number crunchers will need to keep revising up their estimates as many of us have longer lives. Tony Kaye is the editor of listed financial services group InvestSMART and Eureka Report.

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NEWS

DECEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Reflections from an Australian reporter

O’Brien’s life in historical context Tracey Johnstone

I CAN remember growing into social and political awareness at the hands of journalist Kerry O’Brien. He was at the dinner table with my parents and then myself for almost 30 years that Kerry reported for the ABC on This Day Tonight, Four Corners and 7.30. Kerry’s recently released A Memoir sits on top of my pile of books that I have been quietly and carefully collecting over the last three months in preparation for a few weeks of summer holiday reading. It’s a thick book, but my initial review of it indicates it is going to be well worth taking the time to read it as the veteran journalist takes me on a journey through his experiences of living and working during Australia’s social, political, media and cultural evolution from the 40s through to 2015. Throughout his 50-year career, Kerry has borne witness to significant changes to it Australia’s political landscape and the processes in which is reported. “We are certainly in a different era of journalism than the one I grew up in, in many ways,” Kerry said. “The fundamentals of journalism are absolutely still the same, but the trappings have changed massively and the means of delivery have changed massively.” When he started working in television in the ’60s the newsroom waited three or four days for the film of major events to reach Australia. The digital storm, as Kerry describes it, has turned television into an instantaneous medium. “The second thing is where print always saw itself, in my early years, as the superior news medium, these days it is scrambling to keep up and we are converging on each other,” Kerry said. “It’s only a matter of time, and not far away

NEWS LEGEND: Kerry O'Brien, political journalist and author writes his own story (inset). before we are fundamentally using exactly the same means of delivery. “In other words, we will be sharing common spaces and not just one space because there will be many means of delivery. “I guess the days of hard copy newspapers are all but gone.” These changes are driving a reduction in journalism staff, but no decrease in the workload. “That is having an impact on the quality of news,” Kerry said. The other key change in journalism Kerry notes is the 24-hour news cycle which has impacted on political reporting. “It’s this kind of blind desire to fill the digital space simply because it is there whether you have something worth

reporting, something worth analysing, or not,” he said. “So, we have wall-to-wall mountain of words that sometimes has something to offer, and often doesn’t. “And we have politicians who feel compelled to be available when they are asked, no matter how frequently and regardless of whether they have got something to say, or not, because they worry that if they don’t fill the space, somebody on the other side of politics will fill it for them. “The overall quality, I think, has plummeted in many ways.” But Kerry remains a strong advocate for the ABC arguing that now, more than ever, as the social and political landscape changes

dramatically, Australia needs the public broadcasting service. “Yet, here we are, watching the place being hit from one side to the other with a wall of hostility from the government, constant attacks from Rupert Murdoch who happens to own 70 per cent of the print output of the country as well as television influence and radio,” Kerry said. “Although I know from personal experience the ABC has been an enormously resilient institution, you can’t simply assume that it can continue with its resilience and can continue just battle on regardless no matter what harpoons are being thrown at it.” The young, carrot-top boy who spent his

formative years in the small town of Brisbane and once dreamt of being a jackaroo, came to interview some of the world’s most influential decision-makers and to drive hard Australia’s understanding of the political changes occurring around them. His decision to chronicle his journey and that of his family, including their Irish heritage, has been made possible by drawing on his published articles and spending countless hours reading transcripts and

watching his interviews which he rarely watched once recorded, and from going through his extensive collection of notebooks and diaries. “I have been able to take the interviews and look at what John Howard was telling us in response to the questions, compare it with what we now know of those events like East Timor, Iraq, kids overboard, the boarding of the Tampa, gun control laws, the Wik Native Title judgement, the Stolen Generation reports, John Howard’s kind of obsession with the wars and the waterfront dispute, and I think new patterns emerge which I think might help in the next round of interpretation of that part of history,” Kerry said. While former prime minister Paul Keating said in his 2015 Sydney Opera House interview with Kerry O’Brien, “anyone who is any good never wrote about themselves”, while discussing the motivation to chronicle his life, Kerry neatly side-steps this comment by claiming he believed Mr Keating was referring to politicians at the time, not to someone like Kerry. “The biggest motivator (for me) really was the realisation that simply the accident of the different places I worked in my 50-year journey through journalism, I had a ringside seat for many, many milestone moments in post-war history, not just within Australia, but globally,” he said. “I was standing on the steps of Parliament House when Gough came out to make his famous utterance about Kerr’s cur. “I then followed, for Four Corners, Whitlam through that campaign while a colleague, Alan Hogan, followed Malcolm Fraser. “I have very vivid memories of that event and the election that followed.” Kerry’s book encapsulates this and many other significant milestones and offers a fascinating personal insight, with a few cheeky side observations, while keeping true to the historical facts. Published by Allen & Unwin, Kerry O’Brien, A Memoir is in bookshops now. RRP$44.99.

SENIORS \\DECEMBER, 2018

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CREATIVE WRITING

DECEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

NSW Seniors stories Julie Davis, Woonona, NSW FOUR carriages. Bummer. It’ll be packed, standing room only to Wollongong. No matter. Nothing can diminish the euphoria Hazel feels after a visit to the Art Gallery. Happens every time – the experience of communing with artists through their works. She leaves the gallery invigorated, restored and ready to take on the world. Today is no different. They squeeze into the only two spaces available, hands grasping vertical poles and feet spread to maintain balance. Either side of them seated passengers avoid eye contact, wriggle self-consciously and focus on their devices. Two young Asian men rise, gesture a hand each towards their vacated seats. Larry and Hazel smile, gracious in their thanks. “You people shouldn’t travel in peak hour,” rasps a loud male voice through the crowd of standing bodies. “What’re ya doin’ anyway? Old geezers should keep orf trains until workers are in their offices or’ve gone home.” Silence. Hazel places a plump soft hand on Larry’s tense knee. Fear of confrontation spreads like an electric current through the compartment. Who will be galvanised enough to respond? Should someone call the guard? The speaker is hidden from the view of Larry and Hazel who decide by osmosis not to react. Opposite, unseen by Larry and Hazel and next to Raspy Voice sit Bob and Heather, silver hair and lined faces marking them too as targets of his rancour. Hazel fills the silence with an unspoken reply: I’ll tell you what we’ve been doing – I’ve been to Artexpress. Awesome senior school artworks. Each Thursday Larry returns to his former workplace as a consultant. Lunches with colleagues. Last week… What the disgruntled speaker cannot see is Larry’s kindly demeanour. A tall man, shoulders slightly rounded. His head and face smooth, eyes conveying empathy. Hazel, deceptively docile, nestles her plumpness beside her husband. Skilled in social work, she feels able to handle any dysfunctional person, any confrontation. Perhaps not today with no back-up. Her elation melds into the subdued mood of the

On the Three-Twenty-Four carriage. Then a woman’s raised voice: “Yeah. No oldies on trains until nine or after three.” Nothing. Not a sound. Hazel whispers to Larry, “So what happened to encouraging older people to stay in work. What …” Larry leans close. “Shh. They sound drunk. Keep out of it.” The mass of commuters, like flotsam on a pond, shifts and shuffles to make way for luggage and travellers boarding at Wolli Creek, the airport link. Someone stands for the young woman with toddler in a stroller. She sighs a thank you as bodies separate to make way for her. Larry smiles and wriggles his fingers towards the child who swivels his head to stare into a trousered leg beside him. The protestors seem to have been muted by the mass of bodies around them. The crowd thins at Hurstville as suburban passengers alight. “They’re the ones that shouldn’t be on this train,” Bob whispers to Heather. Four of those standing, those without luggage, move to the body of the carriage. The protestors become visible to Larry and Hazel. An unkempt couple slumped against each other, eyes closed. Bob and Hazel beside them smile across at their fellow seniors. Larry raises his eyebrows and shrugs his shoulders. Hazel grimaces then returns their smiles. An inner clock wakens the dozing couple before Sutherland where they rise and shuffle their way to the exit. Raspy Voice mumbles “catch an earlier train next time, old timers”. ‘And you catch a city train’ mutters Hazel to herself. Like a slowly deflating balloon the atmosphere in the compartment relaxes. Two of those with luggage take vacated seats, four remain standing, their attention devoted to smartphones. “Copped a serve there mate,” Bob looks at Larry. “Yes, first time that’s happened.” Larry is pleased to hear his own voice. “Don’t I know you?’ Heather leans forward. “You walk your dog on Woonona beach, a daxie.” “And you have the barking beagle.” “Right,” chuckles Heather. “Actually...” Larry’s eyes roll as Hazel, re-invigorated, launches

her “What do you think about asking Council to change the southern half of the beach to a green zone? Give the dogs a place to run, leash free.” “Great idea. Would legitimise what’s already happening,” Bob chortles. The child in the stroller stirs, falls back to sleep. “I’ve already written to Council and had a reply. Policy is to be reviewed later in the year and they’ll seek community input. Have to keep an eye on Council’s website and Facebook page. That’s the tricky part.” Fellow passengers add “good on you”. And “need you older guys to keep tabs on things”. Hazel could name many millennials active in social issues. But that doesn’t mean we bow out, she thinks, amid continuing friendly banter. The train has reached Thirroul where both older couples alight. During the 18 minute wait for their connecting service, the chatter continues. Larry and Bob compare notes on their respective Men’s Sheds. Heather answers Hazel’s query on her volunteer job in aged care. “It’s one-on-one stuff. There are heaps of people not as active as we are, but their brains remain alert and curious.” “And don’t you think that’s the key … to the notion of ageing positively, I mean? Maintaining your curiosity?” “Yes definitely… and that’s what we focus on. Taking someone to a gallery exhibition, a concert, to a garden show – whatever – helping with family history research. I take my laptop on some visits and we google away. Sometimes we take a train to the city. It’s really an easy outing if you choose your times.” “Oh, I love the trip usually. Plenty of reading time, especially in the quiet carriage.” The connecting all-stations service arrives. The conversation continues to Woonona where Larry and Hazel leave the train. “See you on the beach,” calls Heather. On the drive home Larry says “you haven’t said anything about your gallery visit”. “Inspiring, as usual. Tell you more over dinner.” Story first published in Seniors’ Stories, Volume 4. Copies of the book are in libraries across NSW. The book can be downloaded for free from seniorscard.nsw.gov.au.

Joanne Ruppin, Castlecrag, NSW MERE children, the sales staff in the computer store, raised pierced eyebrows when Shirley and I entered. “How can I help?” asked a boy child. “Show us your dongles,” said Shirley. We were beginners at laptop lingo … dongles ended the day’s excursion. “It would be more fun vacuuming the ceiling,” Shirley grumbled when she arrived at my house for coffee. ‘We were going shopping, not computer shopping.” My daughter who is now my MOM – my Monitor of Madness, phoned then, cutting through the coolness. “I’ll pop over later,” she said, meaning she’d inspect my fridge for vegetables and my coffee cups for stains. “How were the sardine sandwiches I left last week?” The sardine sandwiches were mutating into a fuzz farm on the fridge shelf. “I’m about to go computer shopping.” “I’ll come with you,” she said, “but not today… “Shirley’s coming… “Don’t take Shirley computer shopping please Mum, anyone but Shirley. I’ll come now.” Daughter’s voice buzzed round my kitchen via the best mobile reception I’ve ever had.” Dog crept behind the sofa to howl. Shirley mimed the pair of us driving away very fast so I settled Dog on the sofa with the TV, binned the sardine sandwiches and we left in Shirley’s car. We’d not cleared the street before we saw my daughter’s car heading our way. “Keep your head down,” Shirley ordered while she kept her foot down and raced away to the mall. “We’ll start with coffee since I didn’t get any at your place.” Soon we were laughing and kicking off sandals to compare bunions as only old, old friends can. We agreed that if Shirley slogged around electronic stores with me, I’d consider joining her hiking trip to Utah. “It’ll cost a bomb. What if we break a leg?” I asked. “Stay home then,” she said, “but don’t show me your photos”. Shirley popped the unused little sugar packets from her coffee and mine into her bag, as

Dogs and Dongles

is her habit. “I pay the same for coffee if I put sugar in it or not,” she reasoned. It always took her the best part of a day and 56 little packets of sugar to make a cake. Soon we were mastering gigabytes and watching laptops fold themselves inside out and upside down into tablets. They displayed, Shirley noted, more muscle memory than her physiotherapist. Weight was important, it being a concept we could understand and a word we could spell, so Shirley worked her way along a line of laptops lifting one in each hand. At the end of the row where the laptops ran out and a line of shiny phones began, she paused. Sales boy pounced. “Are you after a phone?” “Perhaps,” said Shirley. “We’re going away.” “Where to? What might you need?” he asked. “YOU-TA,” she said, and he blushed. “You-ta, Utah in the USA. We’ll need excellent communication.” For me to have Wi-Fi and for Shirl’s camera to talk to phones and laptops we’d need dongles it seemed. Sales boy suggested we return the next day or the next – any day but today – and speak to Maurice, the doyen of dongles. He walked us to the exit where the security guard poked at sugar packets in Shirley’s bag. “You’ll get sticky fingers,” Shirley warned him. With Utah in mind we eschewed escalators for stairs and climbed to another store where sales children were younger than Shirley’s phone. A boy plugged in cords and thingummies. He proclaimed Shirl’s phone too old for new tricks and he seized mine, introducing it to the laptops, speakers and thingummies on his shelf. They all talked to each other apparently, saying who knows what. When sales child was called away Shirley prodded my phone where it lay cosying up to its new-age friends. “Where are you?” My daughter’s voice called like magic through all the laptop and Bluetooth speakers along the row. “Wow,” cooed Shirley, slapping my hands away from the phone when I moved to unplug it. “I let myself in. Your Dog has been sick on the sofa,” announced the speakers to the whole store. Sales children stopped

shuffling DVDs to listen. “Sardines on cushions... he’s ransacked the garbage.” The sales children gathered round. Shirley raised an arm gesturing for quiet, glowing with the wonder of it all. “Dog’s GONE. I’m driving the streets searching.” “Ohh,” went the crowd. When my daughter broadcast that she’d missed a midday appointment with a blast of liquid nitrogen to remove warts, I ripped her from the shelf. Shirl and I decided there was no need to mention the mall or computers or warts to my daughter. Instead I phoned her and said I’d been for a long walk. “I’m afraid I’ll get my story muddled,” I told Shirley. “Make it an exercise in neuroplasticity,” said Shirley. “Fact and fiction on different pathways.” She stopped her car three blocks from my place to let me walk home in case my daughter was lurking and spotted the car. Howls filled the air. “That’s Dog,” said Shirley. And it was. He’d squeezed through a high picket fence to croon at a Newfoundland on heat. “Come,” I hissed through the pickets. “Come Dog.” Dog wouldn’t leave the Newfoundland. Shirley locked her car and joined me with about a year’s stash of sugar packets. She laid sugar under the fence and when Dog came close for a sniff we reached through and squeezed him out through the pickets. Shirley offered to drive us home. Back at the car we spied Shirl’s keys – locked inside. No way would I carry Dog home after he’d had a sardine sandwich and sicky attack and Newfoundland so Shirl and I walked the three blocks backwards, opening eighteen sugar packets between us and sprinkling them in his path. And throughout this exercise in agility and problem-solving and balance, our bunions crunched on the sugar. Utah would be a piece of cake.

Dogs and Dongles was first published in Seniors’ Stories, Volume 4. Loan copies of the book are in libraries across NSW. The book can be downloaded for free from seniorscard.nsw. gov.au.

SENIORS \\DECEMBER, 2018

G E N E R A L K N O W L E D G E

8 9

10 11 12

13 14 15

17 18

Across 1 Who (Guy ____) was recruited as a spy while at Cambridge University? (7) 4 What abdominal pain commonly distresses babies? (5) 7 What former measure of land equals a quarter of an acre? (4) 8 In which English county are the Poldark novels set? (8) 10 Which is the only group to write and produce six consecutive number one singles in the US? (3,3,4) 12 What glazed cotton fabric is used for curtains? (6) 13 What did British Honduras change its name to? (6) 15 Which Germanic musical instrument resembles a bugle with valves? (10) 18 Soft black sticks of what are used in drawing? (8) 19 France is part of which ancient region of Europe? (4) 20 Which city is the chief port and commercial centre of the United Arab Emirates? (5) 21 What is a metal support for logs in a ﬁreplace? (7)

PUZZLES

Down 1 What type of hat did TV’s Frank Spencer favour? (5) 2 What was Zimbabwe formerly called? (8) 3 What dead animal might be kept in a bathroom? (6) 4 Which fairytale was first recorded by the Greek historian Strabo in the first century BC? (10) 5 What open watercourse conveys water to a mill? (4) 6 What scented water is named after a German city? (7) 9 Which Italian (Bernardo ___) directed the films Last Tango in Paris and The Last Emperor? (10) 11 What creature in Greek mythology had the head of a bull and the body of a man? (8) 12 “If you’re fond of sand dunes and salty air” begins a Patti Page song about which part of Massachusetts? (4,3) 14 Which large lizard has a species that regularly ventures into the sea? (6) 16 What are toothbrush bristles usually made of? (5) 17 Which siblings (Charles and Mary ___) wrote Tales from Shakespeare in 1807? (4)

15/12

SUDOKU

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

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

5x5

ALPHAGRAMS

Insert the missing letters to make ten words — ﬁve reading across the grid and ﬁve reading down.

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

O I

H P

S N

T 20

Note: more than one solution may be possible.

BLEAT NEURAL MOVED IT SWEATIER PHONEY LOX

SOLUTIONS

W H I N E

N E S T S

ALPHAGRAMS: TABLE, UNREAL, VOMITED, WEARIEST, XYLOPHONE. QUICK CROSSWORD Across: 1. Abut 8. Inexorable 9. Deceased 10. Lack 12. Morphs 14. Spying 15. Status 17. Fidget 18. Edge 19. Epithets 21. Concerning 22. Each. Down: 2. Barefooted 3. Tire 4. Feasts 5. Hordes 6. Parleyed 7. Peak 11. Concentric 13. Patience 16. Spears 17. Frigid 18. Etch 20. Huge.

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Set against the breathtaking backdrop of snow country Colorado, COLD PURSUIT is a pulsepounding revenge thriller with a unique look that will excite filmgoers the world over. Quiet family man and hard-working snowplow driver Nels is the lifeblood of a glitzy resort town in the Rocky Mountains because he is the one who keeps the winter roads clear. He and his wife live in a comfortable cabin away from the tourists. The town has just awarded him “Citizen of the Year.” But Nels has to leave his quiet mountain life when his son is murdered by a powerful drug lord. As a man who has nothing to lose he is stoked by a drive for vengeance. This unlikely hero

uses his hunting skills and transforms from an ordinary man into a skilled killer as he sets out to dismantle the cartel. Nels’ actions ignite a turf war between a manically unpredictable gangster known as Viking and a Native American gang boss. Justice is served in one final spectacular confrontation that will leave (almost) no-one unscathed. Want to see the movie? We have 5 double passes to give away! To be in the draw, just fill in our form online at www.seniorsnews.com.au/ competitions

^Visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitionterms for full competition terms and conditions. Promoter is ARM Specialist Media Pty Ltd of 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore Qld 4558. Promotional period 03/12/18-10/1/19. Competition drawn 2pm 14/1/19 at Cnr Mayne Rd and Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006. Winners announced in Seniors February Edition 2019. Total prize value $200.00 (including GST). Entry is open to all permanent residents of Queensland, residing in the Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Wide Bay Gold Coast and Toowoomba Seniors distribution areas and NSW in the Northern NSW, Central Coast and Coffs & Clarence Seniors distribution areas. NSW Permit Number LTPM/18/03133

6913137aa

R T

How many words of four letters or more can you make? Each letter must be used only once and all words must contain the centre letter. There is at least one nine-letter word. No words starting with a capital are allowed, no plurals ending in s unless the word is also a verb. TODAY: Good 20 Very Good 28 Excellent 34

O T H E R

605

U R

L I P P Y

WORD GO ROUND

SUDOKU

5x5

B L A S T

P Y

C L

Down 2. Unshod (10) 3. Fatigue (4) 4. Banquets (6) 5. Multitudes (6) 6. Discussed (8) 7. Summit (4) 11. Having a common centre (10) 13. Forbearance (8) 16. Impales (6) 17. Icy (6) 18. Carve (4) 20. Immense (4)

GK CROSSWORD Across: 1 Burgess. 4 Colic. 7 Rood. 8 Cornwall. 10 The Bee Gees. 12 Chintz. 13 Belize. 15 Flugelhorn. 18 Charcoal. 19 Gaul. 20 Dubai. 21 Andiron. Down: 1 Beret. 2 Rhodesia. 3 Sponge. 4 Cinderella. 5 Leat. 6 Cologne. 9 Bertolucci. 11 Minotaur. 12 Cape Cod. 14 Iguana. 16 Nylon. 17 Lamb.

Across 1. Share a boundary (4) 8. Remorseless (10) 9. Dead (8) 10. Deﬁciency (4) 12. Transforms (6) 14. Snooping (6) 15. Standing (6) 17. Move restlessly (6) 18. Margin (4) 19. Curses (8) 21. Worrying (10) 22. Every one or thing (4)

WORD GO ROUND

clop clot clout cloy colt copy corrupt CORRUPTLY coup court courtly coypu crop croup croupy lorry lory lour lout outcry plot ploy poly port portly poult poultry pour pout pouty ropy rort rout tolu torc torr tour troy typo tyro your

NORTHERN NSW

DECEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

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