Northern NSW, December 2017

For Enquiries please call

1300 880 265

PAGES 4 & 5

PAGES 8, 21 & 22

Touring Travel & Cruise Specialists Call our friendly, experienced team to book your next cruise or touring holiday or to join one of Go See Touring’s special group departures.

CHIANG MA AI 2-10 FEB 2018 - EX BNE ELEPHANT’ T’S CUP CU 7 Nightss in Chiang Mai - Social SOCIALL C CRO OQUET croquet, shhopping, dining, ESCORTED TED TOUR UR

touring and fr front seats for the Chiang Mai Flow wer Festival.

FROM

$2,999

per person Twin Share ex BNE, SYD, MEL Single supplement from $260

Lots of fun

FOUNDATION DAY NORFOLK ISLAND

1300 551 997 goseetouring.com TERMS & CONDITIONS *Price is per person Twin Share fully inclusive. Single Supplement applies.

Credit card surcharges apply. Deposit of AUD$500$800 per person is required to secure tour. Tour requires a minimum number of passengers to depart. Prices may fluctuate if surcharges, fee, taxes or currency change. Prices current as at 24 November 2017. Go SeeTouring Pty Ltd T/A Go See Touring Member of Helloworld ABN: 72 122 522 276 ATAS Accreditation A11320

PAGE 7

FROM

$975

per person LAND ONLY

GO SEE ALASKA

CONNOISSEUR LAND & CRUISE PACKAGE

$8,350

per person Twin Share ex BNE & SYD, Single supplement $4,069

OUTBACK SONG & DANCE

HOSTED BY RODNEY VINCENT FROM

$5,250

per person Twin Share ex BNE, Single supplement $990

LITTLE BIT COUNTRY

3 - 10 MARCH 2018

7 Nights Accom, Half Day Orientation Tour, Foundation Day Picnic, Island Fish Fry, Dinner at two of Norfolk’s great hotels, PLUS choose 2 half day tours: Behind the Hedges Tour, Island Culture Tour, Convict Settlement Tour, Greenfingers Tour

27 AUGUST - 09 SEPT 2018 Return economy airfares, 1 Night Anchorage, 2 Nights Denali Princess, Wilderness Lodge, 2 Nights Mt McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, 7 Night Cruise from Wittier to Vancouver, Glassdomed Wilderness, Rail from Denali to Wittier, Breakfast daily.

20 - 30 MARCH 2018

Tour the outback with your host Rodney Vincent for a luxury coach tour visiting West Macdonnell Ranges, Coober Pedy, Flinders Ranges, PLUS the magical Uluru Field of Lights and much more including two fabulous shows with John O’Dae and Dave Prior.

HOSTED BY FORTUNATO ISGRO

$2,755

per person Twin Share Ex BNE, Single supplement $400

AFRICAN WILDLIFE 1 – 17 SEPTEMBER 2018 SAFARI

PRIVATE VEHICLE TOURING

$10,500

per person Twin Share ex BNE, SYD & MEL Single supplement $1,070

28 JULY - 4 AUGUST 2018

7 Nights Norfolk Island – flights, accommodation fabulous touring and meals. PLUS Two big “Little Bit Country” shows with your host plus Lucky Starr, Rodney Vincent and Graeme Hugo.

9 Days of wildlife game, drives in private 4x4 vehicles, 12 nights of luxury Sopa, Lodge accom, Opportunity to visit Masai Mara villages, Boat ride on Lake Naivasha, Fully escorted by a Go See, Park fees & taxes.

6408267aa

Advertise your business here

2 Seniors Northern NSW

In this edition

Feature Story: Kaz Cooke ...............................Pages 4&5 Wellbeing.................................................................Page 11 Travel ...............................................................Pages 15-18 What’s On................................................................Page 19 Puzzles ....................................................................Page 23

Contact us Editor: Gail Forrer; gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Manager: Kristie Waite kristie.waite@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Now online Get your news online at www.seniorsnews.com.au Advertising, editorial and distribution enquiries Phone: 1300 880 265 or (07) 5435 3200 Email: advertising@seniorsnewspaper.com.au or editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Location: 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore 4558 Website: www.seniorsnews.com.au Subscriptions Only $39.90 for one year (12 editions) including GST and postage anywhere in Australia. Please call our circulations services on 1300 361 604 and quote “Northern NSW Seniors Newspaper”.

The Seniors Newspaper is published monthly and distributed free in northern New South Wales and south-east Queensland.

The Seniors newspaper stable includes Toowoomba, Wide Bay, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Northern NSW, Coffs and Clarence and Central Coast publications.

Published by News Corp Australia.

Printed by News Corp Australia, Yandina.

Opinions expressed by contributors to Seniors Newspapers are not necessarily those of the editor or the owner/publisher and publication of advertisements implies no endorsement by the owner/publisher.

Welcome

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, December 18, 2017

Welcome summer, goodbye to 2017 MERRY Christmas friends!

In our last edition for 2017, I have endeavoured, through various profiles and feature stories, to include a snapshot of various demographics in our community.

To welcome in summer and portray what is perhaps the quintessential Australian story, we feature 87-year-old Bruce Robertson, the man believed to be Australia’s oldest, active lifesaver. In a spirit of renewal, he praises the younger generation: “In my generation, the thumb was down on you.

Today, people are out to make the best of everything and that applies to young people. I admire them enormously.”

Go Bruce – love your attitude.

The gorgeous Anna Abbot in her 70s speaks honestly about retirement.

Retirement has many connotations, I haven’t been there yet, but retirement seems to run

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK GAIL FORRER

Group editor Seniors Newspapers network

in cycles ranging from initial euphoria to some sadness in saying goodbye to the working habits of old.

Nevertheless, whatever stage, it’s about coming to terms with, and in turn comfortably establishing your identity at a stage of life.

Part of that comes with realising you are not alone in your feelings and if you can have a “Yes, that’s me-too moment” – then, thank you Anna for sharing.

In this edition, we speak with Kaz Cooke about her latest book, based on an Australian stage actor, who certainly lived beyond the norms of the time.

I think that most post-55-year-olds have something in common with this character, which is, navigating a new stage of life without a generation of role models.

Our older age is so much different to that of our parents, with a new

❝

I hope the last 12 months of Seniors News has provided you with supportive stories. set of challenges and advantages, we too must navigate a fresh path forward. In saying that, I think the words of Kaz Cooke’s bring it all back to earth: “I’d be more worried about not laughing

than laughter lines.”

The diversity of our community is further expressed with the wonderful story of Stuart and Robin Cumming, a long-term married, professional couple who, ready to hit their 60s, decided they had had enough of big city stress and would leave for the country.

I have had a good start to Christmas family get-togethers with my aunty and cousins and it’s set me up for all the ones to come with my much-loved family and friends.

I hope the last 12 months of Seniors News has provided you with supportive stories, helpful information and some entertainment.

I also hope that our stories on grandparent’s rights, age discrimination in the workplace and housing issues has also provided you with deeper insights into our society.

Enjoy, Gail

Locals share the fruits of their labours

GROW YOUR OWN: Gardeners come together to swap their produce at the springtime Federal Exchange.

PHOTO: YVONNE GARDINER

THE earthy scent of fresh produce fills the air metres before the gathering place in Federal Park is reached.

At the end of every season, on the last Saturday, Federal Exchange supporters come together to swap the fruits of their labours – vegetables, herbs, fruit, seeds, manure, honey, eggs, worm juice, flowers and cuttings.

Spring produce was on the tables on November 25. Keen swapper Fran Neilson lives on 22 acres

at Federal with husband Peter and used to have an organic nursery.

She was taking home leeks, bok choy, black sapote and black bean seeds from her “exchange” visit.

“The idea of swapping produce with no money involved appeals to me,” she said.

“I brought tomatoes, parsley, tarragon and lemongrass.”

Growing her own food is a passion for Fran.

“We have a lot of fruit trees and chickens,” she

said.

“It’s so nice to go down in the garden and come back with a basket of food that you know where it came from.”

Richard Rowland, of Alstonvale, is a member of the Bangalow Garden Club and grows most of his own food on two acres.

He brought black bean seeds along, and said the connection with the community and sociability of the gathering is a drawcard.

“I feel close to people

who garden. It’s very good for your health,” he said.

“I belong to the Seed Saving Club of Northern Rivers and we have meetings every two or three months.”

The exchange is also a way of discovering food plants you’ve never seen or heard of before.

This is a completely cash-free event.

For details: email thefederalexchange@ gmail.com or visit facebook.com/ thefederalexchange.

$

35

from

p/wk

$

30

$

from

25

from

p/wk

32 Northlink Place, Virginia 2364 Gold Coast HWY, Mermaid Beach

6582496af

p/wk

Monday, December 18, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Cover Story: Bruce Robertson

ACTIVE AGEING: Bruce Robertson (second from left) with members of his Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club patrol group.

Northern NSW

Seniors 3

PHOTO: BILGOLA SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB

75 years of lifesaving Tracey Johnstone

A LIFETIME of public service rests well on the broad shoulders of Australia’s oldest active patrolling lifesaver, 87-year-old Bruce Robertson.

The summer patrols have started and Bruce is again on the beach with his patrol members.

He no longer has his driver’s licence, so he catches the bus from his inner-city home to Bilgola, faithfully turning up once a month ready to do his duty alongside his younger lifesaver mates.

Bruce started his extraordinary volunteer lifesaving journey when he was just 12.

His father was away at war and Bruce had a Saturday morning job at Swain’s in Sydney city, the same place as actor Rod Taylor.

“He and I became good mates. He was very keen to join the surf lifesaving movement so we both went down to Mona Vale,” Bruce said.

In 1942, Bruce and Rod joined Mona Vale club where they both gained their Bronze.

Bruce used to get a lift there from his family’s home at Roseville.

“There was only one person over 18 at the club then, and that was the president, George Wray,” Bruce said.

“They didn’t ask our age because there was nobody else.”

The war had taken all the older members away.

Bruce and Rod remained firm friends until Rod drifted off into the pursuit of his art at East Sydney Tech College and films, while Bruce remained in school.

“Rod was almost two

years older than me,” Bruce said.

“He was also very successful with the ladies.”

Bruce started as a rower for the club’s surf boat crew. Mona Vale had won the national championship in 1939 and they were looking to return to that glory.

So, at 12, Bruce was co-opted as a member an enormous surf boat.

“The one we rowed in went to Hawaii in 1938 or 1939,” Bruce said.

He remembers rowing in the 1954 surf carnival at Bondi Beach which the Queen attended.

“It was an enormous surf, but it was a fantastic day,” Bruce recounts.

He also has found memories of his rowing mates, some 15 or 16 of them, sleeping on gym mats in the clubhouse.

“We would go down to

the club for the weekend,” he said.

It wasn’t until 1950 that Bruce moved to Bilgola to join some of his friends.

After school finished Bruce attended Duntroon where he graduated as a lieutenant.

He spent two years in the army before the ambitious young man left to join the corporate world in building materials.

Throughout this time and in the ensuing years his volunteer lifesaving commitment never waived.

While he may have retired from paid work at 60, that was the only retiring he did.

He next took on chairman of Taronga Zoo, then the deputy chair of the Botanic Gardens and then onto Keep Australia Beautiful while continuing to play golden oldies rugby union for the Gordon club

where he was vice-president and keeping up his active lifesaving volunteering role at Bilgola Beach.

“I will still walk the beach.”

His patrol group are on duty once a month for four hours.

If there is a crisis, Bruce said he now lets his younger patrol members deal with it.

“I find there is a lot of respect by younger people today,” Bruce said of his fellow patrol members.

“I think the younger generation are to be admired. They have not had the thumb put on them.

“In my generation, the thumb was down on you.

“Today, people are out to make the best of everything and that applies to young people. I admire them enormously.

“Now I am quite happy

to sit and watch, to see what people do.

“So much has happened and so many changes have been made, really I should be one trying to get as much as I can from them.”

As he gazes fondly over what has been his second home for all of his adult life, his greatest joy is watching how his home club has progressed.

“I can remember digging into the stone to build it,” Bruce said of Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club.

“I am not going to give it up. I love the club.

“I feel that I have to give something back to society as society has been very good to me.

“Surf Lifes Saving is one of those ways I can give something back.

“I am enjoying living in this society. I don’t want to stop.”

4 Seniors Northern NSW

Feature Story: Kaz Cooke

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, December 18, 2017

Ada’s life of drama on

Author Kaz Cooke entertains us with the story of a fiesty, creative, independent woman KAZ Cooke reckons she’d like to be “a fully vaccinated time-traveller”.

The 54-year-old author, best known for her advice books for modern girls and women, such as Up the Duff and Girl Stuff, has just released her new book Ada and, although it still mixes fact and humour, it’s a complete switch from what we have come to expect.

In it, Kaz travels back to the 1890s through the true-life character of Ada Delroy, who escaped the humblest of beginnings in a mill town in Lancashire to become an acclaimed dancer, comic and singer, with her own vaudeville-style troupe which toured Australia and the world.

That would be quite an accomplishment even now, but how much more so for a woman over 120 years ago?

Kaz first “met” Ada in an old theatre scrapbook while doing a fellowship on a completely different subject at the State Library of Victoria.

“I came across a photo of this woman that completely arrested me.

There was something really feisty and modern about her,” Kaz said.

Unlike most photos of women in the day, Ada’s hair was not scraped back into a severe bun, as she stood or sat, straight-backed, looking morosely directly into the camera.

Instead, Ada’s hair was out and curled, escaping from a huge feathered and bowed hat, and she was bejewelled in a thick necklace, two butterfly brooches, and another spelling out her name in diamantes, as she looked into the distance with a secret smile playing around her mouth.

Kaz soon discovered

KEEPING IT REAL: Kaz Cooke’s humour is never far away in her books or her conversation. “I’d rather worry about not laughing, more than laugh lines,” she says of getting older.

PHOTO: DAVID JOHNS PHOTOGRAPHY

there was a huge body of information about this woman and the exploits of herself and her troupe, and became “transfixed by her story”.

Thus began two years of research and another of writing to give this incredible woman a voice.

“She wasn’t an angel.

There was definitely a naughtiness to her – her whole act was stolen,” Kaz said. “But there was

FEISTY: Ada Delroy, c1895, had something feisty and modern “naughtiness” about her that appealed to author Kaz Cooke.

PHOTO: COURTESY STATE LIBRARY OF VICTORIA

so much life in her and I wanted her to be able to tell her own story.”

The book begins in 1911, with Ada in reduced circumstances, suffering tuberculosis, dependent on morphine, and being assessed to live out her last days in a charity cottage for those in the theatre profession.

“Dying is a bit like being poor,” Ada says.

“You don’t get much in the way of choices.”

It’s a hard end for

THOSE WERE THE DAYS: The Ada Delroy Company.

PHOTO: PHOTO COURTESY THE ADVERTISER, 2

someone who once danced for the Maharajah, was friends with Houdini, brought the first films to many Australian country towns and was the first female to ride a bike through those same towns, causing men to literally fall off their horses.

There are gaps in Ada’s story, including a baby mysteriously left in Adelaide, but Kaz said didn’t have to add any drama herself to this funny, poignant and dramatic tale which includes carriages hurtling off cliffs and a train catching fire.

THE KING OF TALKBACK RADIO JOHN LAWS ON 2HC AND 2GF With over sixty years of commercial broadcast experience, John Laws asks the hard questions – and cuts through the political spin. For unmissable news, information, entertainment and talkback, Australia relies on John Laws.

Don’t miss the host who calls it like he sees it.

Listen every weekday from 9am – midday.

Coffs Coast 100.5 FM | 639 AM www.radio639am.info

Clarence Valley 1206 AM | 103.9 FM www.radio2gf.com.au

CR114733AA

Alison Houston

Feature Story: Kaz Cooke

Monday, December 18, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Northern NSW

the stage

“I sometimes wonder if Ada would be a bit cross with me that I’ve taken liberties, but I think she’d be proud that she’s put on a good show,” Kaz said.

And you could say the same for Kaz, whose advice books – constantly updated with the latest medical information – have been best sellers now for some 20 years.

(An updated version of Kid Wrangling – about caring for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers – is about to be re-issued under a new name.)

Asked her secret, Kaz said she reckoned no one else could be bothered doing all the work and research involved!

While her books have, to an extent, traced Kaz’s

own development, from 1994’s Real Gorgeous, looking at body image, to pregnancy, with Up the Duff, and then her child-rearing and teen books, Kaz said she’s not quite ready to write an advice book for the over-50s.

“I’m a bit worried my next book after that would be ‘How to Cark It’, so I really don’t want to rush that!” she laughed.

She also admits she knows she’d probably have to take a bit of her own advice and do more exercise “which is my personal goal and my personal terror really”.

Not that she’s worried about getting old, saying: “I’d rather worry about not laughing, more than laugh lines”.

Besides, Kaz has a few other ideas in the pipeline, including losing herself in history again for another project, and the possibility of another children’s book, for those who remember reading The Terrible Underpants and Wanda Linda Goes Berserk to their kids and grandkids.

BOOKS: Kaz Cooke's book Ada.

The A, B and C of Mercedes-Benz.

Owning a new Mercedes-Benz can be as straight forward as A B C. A. Meet Lachlan, he is a Mercedes-Benz Certified Sales Consultant at Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast.

B. Lachlan is professional, courteous and knows just about everything there is to know about Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

C. You know that you will get the right advice and friendly service from Lachlan, before and after you have purchased your new Mercedes-Benz.

Make an appointment with Lachlan on 0402 214 323 for your personalised test drive and demonstration of our new A-Class, B-Class or C-Class motor vehicles today.

Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast 4 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Tel 1800 693 876 www.mbcoffscoast.com.au

LMD3461

Seniors 5

6 Seniors Northern NSW

Nancy to carry baton

Local Story

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, December 18, 2017

Former Olympian in spotlight

when London was hosting its third Olympic Games: “Among the 10 Australian swimmers who came to London in July 1948 was Queenslander Beatrice ‘Nancy’ Lyons.

“She was chosen for the Australian team but, because of post-war financial difficulties, she had to raise the money for her fare to London herself.

“She won the silver medal in the 200m breaststroke, being only half a second behind the record-holder and gold medallist.

“She won silver at the 1950 British Empire Games in Auckland, in the 220 yards breaststroke, and then won gold in the 3x110 yards medley.”

Trudy writes that the contrast between the

BLAST FROM THE PAST: Tweed Heads resident and former Olympic swimmer Nancy Welch will take her place as a baton-bearer for the Queen’s Baton Relay.

PHOTO: YVONNE GARDINER

1948 London Olympics, which were aptly christened The Austerity Games, and the glittering affair in 2012, could not be greater.

“In 1948 Britain was broke, still in the grip of rationing and dire shortages of many non-rationed commodities, and the rubble that was the result of years of German bombing was still much in evidence,” she said.

“It is interesting to

compare Nancy Lyons’ description of her Olympic experience with what happens now.

“At an Olympians dinner in 2004, she said that she used to train three nights a week after school at the Valley baths, and that by the time she returned from the two-month boat trip from Europe, Australia had forgotten about the Olympic Games.”

Nancy, born in 1930 and now a resident of

Tweed Heads, remembers the 1948 Olympics opening ceremony in London as a low-key affair.

“The opening ceremony compared with today is just so different,” she said.

“The teams marched in and stayed on the oval, and King George just drove around the oval.”

Pigeons representing “peace” were released.

Nancy went on to compete in the 1952 Olympics in Helsinki. She still has the

baton she carried in the Sydney 2000 Torch Relay at Tallebudgera. She said that experience was “fabulous”.

Nancy’s obvious swimming talents have opened up incredible opportunities.

“Our parents taught us to swim because we lived by the sea in Townsville,” she said.

“I won my first championship aged nine.

The coach decided I had natural ability.”

Nancy Lyons (Welch, seated right) in Australia’s swim team for the 1948 Olympic Games in London.

TELL YOUR STORY!

Have you written your life story?

Do you want to pass a legacy on to your family?

Do you have a novel waiting to be published?

We are now accepting manuscripts See ‘New Author Information’ on our website to submit your story or ...

CALL (07) 55 755 141

EMAIL: info@zeus-publications.com www.zeus-publications.com

6055320aa

WHEN the Queen’s Baton arrives in Australia in December and makes its way over three months to the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast, former Olympian Nancy Welch (Lyons) will take her place as one of 3500 baton bearers.

As a sportswoman, Nancy was never beaten in competition in Australia and earned the accolade “one of the best Australian swimmers of all time”.

She won a silver medal at the 1948 Olympic Games in London in the 200m breaststroke, after paying her own fare to the UK. In her article A Tale of Two Olympics, State Library of Queensland librarian Trudy Bennett writes in August 2012

Monday, December 18, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Profile Story: Anna Abbott

Northern NSW

Seniors 7

The transitions of life

There’s a little spot in Anna’s heart that misses the job Ann Rickard

YOU can’t miss Anna Abbott. With a smile almost as wide as the enormous hats she favours, and with faultless make-up and a sense of extravagant style that turns heads, she makes a grand entrance.

Now retired after and long and fulfilling career, Anna spends her days and nights with mixed and myriad activities that would leave most retirees exhausted.

She studies language (she is already fluent in French, is learning Italian) and attends Shakespeare reading classes.

She founded Les Belles, a group of like-minded local women who get together once a week to speak only in French throughout a fun and learning afternoon (and over a glass of French bubbles).

She coaches students in English at the local language school, never misses a social event,

lunches at lot, and is making plans for her next overseas trip.

All this, and yet Anna says she does not quite feel complete.

It is the dreaded Relevance Deprivation Syndrome to blame. This condition strikes men and women who have had long and rewarding careers with all the trappings that go with it: power, money, perks, influence.

In Anna’s case it is decades of working first as a lawyer and then as head-principal of a prestigious girls college in NSW. “I used to love being able to solve problems for people and make a difference to their lives,” she said of her role as principal.

“Every day someone would come to me weeping over something.

I was Mrs Fixit. I had 100 staff. I miss that.”

Relevance Deprivation Syndrome is not a derogatory expression

MY STORY: The talented and determined Anna Abbott.

and it is a very real condition.

It affects people who have worked hard for years to achieve promotions and goals, and who have invested all their working lives in their professional roles.

In her position as school principal, Anna also helped young women

in countless ways, from teaching them table etiquette to giving them career advice, but mostly by just being herself and presenting as a powerful role model.

“I miss being multi-faceted, giving academic and moral guidance, attending conferences,” Anna said.

“Despite all the things I do now I still miss it.”

Anna is being honest in expressing feelings many like her have experienced upon retiring, yet have kept them to themselves.

Generally, work makes us feel relevant and when we stop it is difficult to wake each morning and wonder what we are going

to do to make the day rewarding.

“It is hard to be an older woman in Australia,” Anna said.

There is probably no cure for Relevance Deprivation Syndrome, other than to let time take care of it, and Anna with her quick intelligence and deep insight knows this.

Advertisement

Are commercial solar rebates on the way out?

31 mW solar installed

125,000

solar panels installed

$9.3M

savings delivered to Australians every year

Ph: 1300 18 20 50

r 1b 11

SAE Group are accredited Master Electricians first and foremost, and we deliver honest, expert advice specific to your business that will serve you well today and tomorrow. Call SAE on 1300 18 20 50. To find out more visit www.saegroup.com.au

sPecialists 58

With year on year increases for the past four years, just how much is too much to pay for your electricity? I’m here to tell you if you’re paying more than 15% operating costs in electricity then we really need to talk. Think about your current electricity bill, then think about halving it, or better yet, completely wiping it out. If your business runs predominantly while the sun is shining this is could be your new reality.

Time it seems, is running out, and clean, affordable electricity has never been better for your business.

If you own your own building and your business relies heavily on electricity, NOW is the time to solar your business. Give us a call and one of our energy experts can walk you through a solution that will protect your business from ongoing electricity increases before the government rebate expires. Our experience speaks for itself, having successfully installed more than 125,000 panels to date, and delivering savings to thousands of customers.

Your solar energY

66

If the National Energy Guarantee goes the way many are predicting, the government rebates that are currently available encouraging businesses to install solar and reduce their reliance on our aging grid, could be removed without warning (yep overnight). If you’re in the market for a larger system (up to 100kw), that’s potentially a saving of $67,000 gone in the blink of an eye. The NEG also pledges investment for coal, our current primary energy source where distribution relies on the struggling infrastructure which coincidentally also requires a serious upgrade, and where that money will come from… history tells us higher electricity bills.

Investing now in commercial solar will ultimately free up your cash flow for years to come, and reduce your energy demand spikes throughout the day, effectively lowering those incredibly high capacity charges businesses are slugged with. There are also immediate tax benefits available to businesses on assets purchased less under 20k. Feed in tariffs are also available to eligible businesses to export back to the grid, delivering a further reduction in outgoings. The marketable value of a green business is not to be discounted either, going green continues to be a valuable asset for business, not only does it make you feel good, but your customers will thank you for it too.

www.saegroup.com.au

12 YEAR PREMIUM

WORKMANSHIP

warranty 6658111br

As the country’s energy debate continues to rage, the government’s latest energy policy, the National Energy Guarantee looks likely to put the brakes on renewable energy investment. The federal government’s latest promise is ‘reliable’ energy, however reading between the lines there is no mention of affordable energy, or sustainable energy in the mix. So just what does this latest energy policy mean for your business?

8 Seniors Northern NSW

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, December 18, 2017

Living

Here’s some festive ideas

The added beauty of thoughtful gift-giving Yvonne Gardiner

CHOOSE WISELY: Take into consideration the likes and dislikes of an older friend or relative when you go shopping for Christmas gifts.

PHOTOS: COURTESY ROBINA SHOPPING

Handmade or personalised gifts are an option that’s sure to please. Shop at the local markets for soaps and other beauty products, hand-crafted timber and leather items, jewellery and even cards.

Notebooks, journals and stationery can be monogrammed at stores; watches and pens can be engraved to add that individual touch.

A calendar made up of family photos taken throughout the year will be treasured. Before you set aside a day for Christmas shopping around the stores, maybe save time by doing a bit of research online.

STAY SAFE AT HOME

Many charities, especially those that operate overseas, rely on the income from gifts they

offer at Christmas. These “meaningful” purchases could include a goat or cow to help a needy

Gift vouchers can be a popular choice but if you would prefer to make it more personal, there are many wonderful gifts that are sure to please.

Funerals | Burials | Cremations | Pre-arranged Funeral Services | Private Crematorium 6189035aa

THE simplest of Christmas gifts can bring much pleasure, years after the present has been received.

Fond memories are created and affection is passed on through that very act of giving.

Seniors and grandparents tend to have quite a collection of these items which are imbued with emotional attachment.

Year after year, this collection grows.

But there’s always room for more…

When choosing a gift for an older friend or relative, take into consideration the recipient’s personality, likes and dislikes and way of life.

Does he or she garden, entertain a lot, read, go to the movies, wear a lot of “bling”, or enjoy certain hobbies?

It’s helpful to chat with the intended recipient to find out his or her needs.

Would a hamper of food be more welcome than another ornament to put on already crowded shelves?

Of course, gift vouchers are a popular choice because recipients can then pick out something that appeals to them. Our stores in Australia are brimful of gift choices, no matter how much you have to spend.

family, adopting an orangutan, or choosing fair trade, eco-friendly products. Watches and clocks are usually a gift well-received – and there’s a huge range of designs, makes and prices.

Perfume, glittering jewellery, crystal objects, paintings, figurines, books, picture frames, plants, calendars, diaries, notebook computers, an esky, scented candles, coffee machine, chocolates, Christmas Day lunches, Storey Bridge climb, skydiving, holidays, theatre tickets, there’s no lack of gift options to show grandparents and senior-aged friends and family members how truly loved they are. Importantly the gift will be an enduring symbol of your warm regard and affection.

“WHAT would you like for Christmas?”, I ask my grandchildren, expecting a helpful answer. The responses are mixed.

Gift vouchers are the current favourite request from the older ones.

They have very definite views about what they can live with – brand names, advertised products, specific colours, whatever their friends are obsessed with... and there’s no doubt they like to shop!

“I don’t really need anything,” announces the eldest.

That’s a refreshing but surprising comment, coming from a teenager, but when goaded he does concede that he might need new clothes and shoes (necessary as he’s growing about a foot a month)... and another video game could possibly be squeezed into the extensive collection.

It’s obvious that youngsters are heavily influenced as consumers by their peers, and advertisements on TV and in brochures.

What’s on the best-seller list for children is usually a good guide to sought-after gifts. Expect these products to sell out early in the lead-up to Christmas.

Tried-and-true favourites include Lego, Smiggles, Monopoly, Disney products, super heroes and Ooshies (if you’ve got a 10-year-old, you’ll know what I’m talking about).

So, talk to your children, find out what they’d like to receive... then don’t delay, go out and buy as soon as possible!

In any case, this means you avoid the Christmas rush. Also do some research online to find out the products suitable for the age of the child, and what’s trending in the toy department.

- Yvonne Gardiner

WITH OUR MEDICAL ALARMS Our medical alarms can help you enjoy life and feel safe and confident in your home.

Lots of options to suit your budget and needs.

Call today for a FREE consultation

1300 851 771

www.lifelinkresponse.com.au FER0547 10/17

43 Holland St Goonellabah Ample onsite parking Alfresco area Private viewing area Easy access Spacious Chapel Catering services available

1800 809 336

21 Kalinga Street WEST BALLINA www.parkviewfunerals.com.au

Northern NSW

Monday, December 18, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

NOW IS THE TIME TO DISCOVER A LIFE BEYOND DREAMS...

Seniors 9

LIMITED EDITION LUXURY BEACHSIDE APARTMENTS

WELCOME TO YOUR NEW LIFE. IT BEGINS HERE...

WELCOME TO YOUR NEW LIFE. IT BEGINS HERE...

Enjoy this superb beachside location with its magnificent blue water Moreton Bay views from the luxury of your new spacious 3 bedroom apartment featuring 2 balconies, 2 bathrooms and 2 car spaces.

Bathers Beachside is the Peninsula’s newest and most prestigious waterfront development. Designed and developed by Traders in Purple with luxury living in mind, these exquisite apartments deliver an unprecedented attention to detail and finishes second to none. Perfectly positioned in a premier waterfront enclave right by the beach on Margate Parade, offering spacious living areas and large balconies encapsulating the breathtaking never-to-be-built-out Moreton Bay views.

Lower floor apartments available from $599,000 and the top floor sky homes with their extraordinary panoramic views offer amazing value from $899,000 With excellent sales in recent months...

Your opportunity to live in The Scarborough is quickly disappearing!

Don’t miss out, call our sales team today on 0477 432 432 or visit our new sales and display centre located at 113 Landsborough Avenue, Scarborough.

A limited number of 3 bedroom apartments will be available. Be the first to secure yours, register your interest today at bathersbeachside.com/register or call our sales team on 0477 432 432 or visit our new sales and display centre located at 113 Landsborough Avenue, Scarborough.

CALL OUR SALES TEAM ON T. 0477 432 432 OR VISIT OUR SALES AND DISPLAY CENTRE WEDNESDAY - SUNDAY 10AM - 4PM AT 113 LANDSBOROUGH AVE, SCARBOROUGH tradersinpurple.com

10 Seniors Northern NSW

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, December 18, 2017

STAY AT HOME

Steps you can take at home to prevent falls A few precautions make world of difference AS WE age, unfortunately, the chance of falling increases.

For many older people and their families, worrying about falls can be very stressful and unsettling.

Not only can falls bring physical injury and the need for rehabilitation, they can result in loss of confidence for older people, holding them back from doing the things they love.

The good news is there are a number of proactive falls prevention steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of falls, including things you can do at home, so that you and your loved ones can get on with doing the things that matter most.

Say goodbye to trip

hazards Eliminate trip hazards around the home such as uneven surfaces, rugs that are loose, curled at the edges or frayed, cords running along the floor, poor lighting, clutter and slippery floors.

Keep it in reach Encourage your older relatives or friends to keep things within reach – small changes such as using a cordless phone placed by their side and placing commonly used items within reach can make a difference.

Stay healthy and active with fall prevention exercises Provide support and encourage your loved one to keep moving and engage in exercise to improve muscle strength

and balance. Remember that good hydration and nutrition are also important.

Make sure clothing and shoes fit Ensuring that your family member or friend has shoes and clothing that fits well is a foundation to reducing the risk of falls. Shoes should be non-slip, fit firmly and be the correct size, and not cause any pain.

Clothing should be comfortable, the right length and fit well.

Check it out Visit your GP regularly and discuss any illnesses or health concerns such as pain, dizziness, poor balance, vision problems or discomfort in walking.

Chat about what treatment and support is

EMBRACE THE HELP: Mobility aids such as a walker can help reduce the risk of falls around the home. Talk to a GP or physiotherapist about what’s available and right for you.

PHOTO: KERRY WILSON

available.

Don’t be shy when it comes to mobility aids Mobility aids such as a walker, walking stick and handrails can help reduce the risk of falls around the

home. Talk to a GP or physiotherapist about what’s available and right for you.

This article is published on YourLife, an website run by The Whiddon Group

providing information, practical suggestions and inspiring stories about healthy ageing and aged care. Visit the website: whiddon.com.au/yourlife.

ADVERTORIAL

Whiddon Community Care Supporting you at home Living independently at home and getting out and about in their community is extremely important to Anne and Bill.

Talk to us today about Home Care Packages or private options

From help with the housework, gardening and weekly shopping, to visiting art galleries and having a coffee and a chat at their favourite café, Anne and Bill love the support they receive from their Home Care Worker, Judy.

Anne and Judy 1300 378 388 whiddon.com.au

Anne, Bill and their family have peace of mind knowing they’re living safely in the home they love, with all the support they need.

Northern NSW

Monday, December 18, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Wellbeing

Seniors 11

Relay for Life is a time of remembrance & hope FORMER Lismore City mayor and breast cancer survivor Jenny Dowell volunteers for a couple of vital roles in the city’s Relay For Life.

She’s taking part in the actual 2018 Lismore & Villages Relay For Life with her supportive team, Dowell and Friends, and also working behind the scenes with the organising committee to make next year’s relay on March 17-18 the best one yet.

“Each year I’ve relayed for a close friend or family member, either going through treatment or, sadly, who has died from some form of the disease,” Jenny said.

“This time it’s for my

mum, who died in September from endometrial cancer.”

Ten years ago, no one in Jenny’s immediate family of 10 had experienced cancer.

“Then I was diagnosed, my niece was next, then my dad and, most recently, my mum,” Jenny said.

“While mum and dad died from cancer, my niece and I are now happily cancer-free.”

As a committee member looking after the survivor and carer activities, Jenny is looking forward to honouring cancer survivors and carers on the first lap of the relay and joining them for afternoon tea.

TIME TO CELBRATE: Volunteer and former mayor Jenny Dowell (left) with Maude Boat at the 2016 Lismore & Villages Relay For Life.

As a team captain, she walks with her teammates and reflects on absent loved ones.

Jenny has a piece of advice to anyone thinking of registering.

“Relay For Life brings everyone together to celebrate, to support those living with cancer, to remember loved ones and to raise funds so that in future there will be less cancer in our lives – and of course to have fun.”

Teams can register at relayforlife.org.au/lismore for only $15 using the discount code ‘earlybird’ before January 18, 2018.

Registration fee includes a t-shirt, overnight camping and

breakfast on Sunday.

Cancer Council NSW community relations co-ordinator Kate McBride said every Relay For Life begins with an opening lap to celebrate and support cancer survivors and their carers.

“All survivors and carers are welcome to join in; you don’t even need to be part of a team,” she said.

“The event brings the whole community together for a night of celebration and remembrance.”

For details about the 2018 Lismore & Villages Relay For Life, phone Kate on (02) 6639 1303, email kate.mcbride nswcc.org. au or visit www.relayfor life.org.au.

GP speaks to nippers about sun safety program. I don’t want to see any of these kids in 15-20 years time.

“I think parents are aware and when they taken their kids to the beach, they wear a hat and a shirt and UV resistant clothing. They should use 50+ resistant sun cream every few hours.

“I think people are more aware definitely than when I was growing up.”

The collective team at Coolangatta Medical Centre have expressed how pleased they are to become a sponsor of the THCSLSC program.

“We’d like to support the nippers – I think it is a great club to support and get the kids involved in the awareness of the

ocean and train them up to be potential lifesavers in the future.

“It is fun socially just to go there as well with the kids. I really like nippers and we are proud to support them.”

Do your part, help educate your grandchildren about sun safety to help make sure they never need to face problems with skin cancer.

And what about you?

The Coolangatta Medical Centre holds special skin cancer clinics each Friday, if it’s time for your professional skin check– make an appointment today. Phone 5599 1400.

Adapted from an article written by Nikki Todd.

ADVERTORIAL

No Gap Eye Surgery At The Eye Care Clinic, our eye surgeons and specialists care enough to see you as people, not just as someone with a problem. Dr. Svoboda and Dr. Lamont personally see you all the way through your procedure - right from the first visit till they are totally satisfied all is well.

Nor does this high level of care mean that you are charged an arm and a leg. We actively work to keep the costs as low as possible, and provide services including age related macular degeneration, cataract surgery, glaucoma, lid tumours, diabetic eye disease, iritis, laser surgery, dry eyes and lid malpositions. Those who are insured also enjoy the cost saving benefit of our No Gap Policy.

What’s more, there’s no need to travel out of the local area for the actual surgery as our surgeons operate in Tweed Heads.

When you want someone that takes a sight better care of both you and your health, ask for The Eye Care Clinic. You’ll see we really do care.

A PRIVATE CREMATION $2200 includes GST

✓ Loved one taken into our care 24 hours, 7 days ✓ All required mortuary attention and preservation ✓ Completion of all application and registration forms ✓ Doctor's cremation certificates ✓ Environmentally friendly cardboard coffin ✓ Private transport to crematorium and cremation fee ✓ Death registration and official BDM death certificate ✓ Return of ashes to loved one's family or friends

Pre-Paid Plan Available - No Administration Fees

Dr Emanuel Svoboda

6544375aa

Servicing the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers 6 Scott Street, Coolangatta Qld 4225

(07) 5506 6777

STAY SAFE: Coolangatta Medical Centre’s Dr Roy Horchner spoke to the Tweed Heads and Coolangatta Surf Life Saving Club nippers about sun safety.

PHOTO: JANINE COVENEY

Dr Meon Lamont

Locally owned by Ben & Emma Little Servicing The Gold Coast to Ballina 24 hour essential service

Call - 1300 678 443

6598435ab

TWEED Heads and Coolangatta Surf Life Saving Club is gearing up for an exciting season, with a record number of nippers enrolled at the club.

Based at beautiful Greenmount Beach, more than 270 nippers have joined THCSLSC so far this year, more than any year previous.

Coolangatta Medical Centre’s Dr Roy Horchner, a GP with more than 47 years experience, spoke to the nippers last week about sun safety.

“I tell the kids I don’t want to see them in the future,” Dr Horchner joked.

“Now is the time to get them. This is an awareness and prevention

12 Seniors Northern NSW

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, December 18, 2017

Community TWEED LIBRARY OPENING

TO ALLOW for readers’ requests for the publication of more neighbourhood news, please keep notices short and to the point (100 word maximum).

If you would like to submit a photo please ensure it is at least 180dpi or 500kb to 1mb in size and of faces, in a nice bright setting.

The deadline for the January issue January 5.

Email Nicky or Chris: communitynotes@seniors newspaper.com.au.

WE ARE having an official opening for our beautiful new Tweed Heads Library on January 22. We would like to encourage everyone to come and try all activities and services that we offer through our libraries. This will be a fun and exciting day full of demonstrations and activities for all ages. For info go to rtrl.nsw.gov.au or phone (07) 569 3150.

NUTBUSH WORKOUT

TWIN TOWNS & DISTRICT GARDEN CLUB

OUR November meeting was again a resounding success with 104 members. Then to add to this wonderful success we were able to welcome our oldest Life Member Bonnie Bjorland to our Annual General Meeting held on November 13.

Bonnie was a founding member of the club and still going strong at a grand 97 years old. Our president Monika Ross awarded life membership to our newest Life Member Linda Butcher who has been with the club for 30 years. Linda looks after the library for the Club and does a wonderful job of this for the members.

Classes are held in Tweed Heads, Tugun and Coolangatta. Class information is on our website.

Many of U3A Twin Towns tutors are retired lecturers or teachers anyone who is interested in sharing their knowledge and expertise with other members is welcome to phone (07) 5534 7333 or email u3atwintowns @gmail.com.

U3A

■ TWEED COAST

■ TWIN TOWNS

WE WELCOME new members and encourage new and current members to enrol before January 24 to be in the early bird draw for refund of membership fee as first prize and refund of course fees up to $30 as second prize.

SANTA'S HELPERS: Members of U3A Twin Towns Stretch and Dance class are pictured selling $1 raffle tickets for the Christmas Hampers.

THE last term for the year has now ended but you can become a member and get ready for a fabulous year of learning, fun and friendship in 2018.

We will have over 40 classes to choose from, writing, tai chi, yoga, languages, cards,

mah-jong, history, painting, technology to name a few. If you are not already a U3A’er join now for only $40 for the whole year to attend as many classes as you like. All details, go to: tweedcoast.u3a net.org.au/wp or phone Val on 0421 686 310.

VIEW CLUBS ■ CASINO

WE WILL be holding our first Luncheon meeting for 2018 at the Casino RSM Club at 11am on Thursday, February 8.

Guest speaker will be Kathy Diskin, our National Councillor talking on the working of VIEW and The Smith Family as we educate and support disadvantaged Australian Children. Acceptances

and apologies are to phone Barbara on 6661 2530 before Monday, February 5.

■ MURWILLUMBAH EVENING

OUR next dinner meeting will be on Monday, February 5 at Murwillumbah Services Club. The meeting starts at 6.30pm for a two course dinner at 7pm.

Cost $25. This will be our AGM so be sure to come and meet some new and friendly people.

Our club supports the Smith Family’s learning and mentoring programs supporting disadvantaged Australian children to achieve their educational goal. If you would like to attend or know more about our club, please

phone Lesley Larsen on 6672 6753.

■ COOLANGATTA TWEED

WE COMPLETED a successful and enjoyable year in 2017 by joining with other clubs for a delightful Combined Zone Christmas Service in Tweed Heads. Members can look forward to new activities and functions in 2018 when the VIEW year commences on Thursday, February 22 (N.B. date change). This will be the Annual General Meeting when subscriptions are due and elections will be held. Members please phone Elaine on 5524 4461 with apologies or for further information on VIEW, please phone Janice on 5524 5707.

NUTBUSH Exercise Class starting in the New Year on Thursday, February 8 at Coolangatta Uniting Church hall, from 11am-noon. Program incorporates the Nutbush dance, light weighs and qigong majestic movements. Bookings essential. Phone Peter 0413 125 640.

BALLINA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

WE ARE asking for visitors to help, donate or volunteer their time this Christmas to help those less fortunate. A register has been set up at the Ballina Visitor Information Centre where visitors can express their interest in volunteering their time to help out. For any locals or visitors that would like to donate non-perishable items, the Ballina Visitor Information Centre is hosting a food appeal.

Items can be donated up until December 21 (Monday-Saturday, 9am5pm, Sunday 10am-2pm).

Items will be delivered to the Salvation Army in Ballina. Phone 1800 777 666.

Event Cinemas Movie Gift Card Giveaway THE BEST GIFT IS LOVE, ACTUALLY (But a gift card’s a close second)

Thanks to Event Cinemas, we are giving away $50 Event Cinemas Movie Gift Cards - the perfect Christmas Gift!

To be in the running, simply email communitynotes@seniorsnewspaper.com.au.

Make sure you tell us your name (first and last), contact number, email, postal address and Seniors Newspapers region, then answer this question What movie are you most excited for in 2018? Or visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitions to enter online. Good luck!

Buy yours today at the box office or at eventcinemas.com.au

Wellbeing + Travel + living + Money

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 18/12/17 - 10/01/17. Competition drawn 9am 11/01/17 at Cnr Mayne Rd and Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006. Winners announced in Seniors February Editions 2017. Total prize value $150.00 (including GST). Entry is open to all permanent residents of New South Wales, residing in the Gold Coast, Northern NSW, Coffs and Clarence and Central Coast Seniors distribution areas. NSW permit number NSW/LTPS/17/20665

6724964ae

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

Northern NSW

Monday, December 18, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Talk ‘n’ thoughts Hurdles, highjumps and solutions

Seniors 13

Share your thoughts

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

Speaking up for the truth THE talk is all about our generation.

Harvey Weinstein, Kevin Spacey, Bill Cosby, Rolf Harris, Don Burke – they are all seniors.

If anyone ever questioned why women’s liberation had to happen – then right here, right now, on the media’s front pages, you will find the answers.

To vindicate his actions, movie producer Harvey Weinstein flashed on a singular truth when he said: “I came of age in the ’60s and ’70s, when all the rules about behaviour and workplace were different. That was the culture then. I have since learned it’s not excuse, in the office – or out of it. To anyone.”

Yes, the 1960s and

❝

Some men saw women’s liberation as another green flag to express their power.

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK GAIL FORRER

Group editor Seniors Newspapers network

’70s, the age many of us grew up in, was transition time, the first wave of women’s liberation saw changes such as women able to keep working in banks after they were married and, in various areas, wage equalisation.

In terms of government legislation, women were starting to gain liberation from a stultifying culture of gender inequity.

But socially, well that’s another story and I think it’s here that Weinstein, sadly, tells the truth. The

Hopefully the next step will be an honest reconciliation.

rules of the ’60s and ’70s about behaviour and workplace were different.

While women saw the loosening of societal moors as liberating for their own spirit, some men saw women’s

liberation as another green flag to express their power. In those times, women were indeed taking on more public roles, but men were still the boss. In some ways, nearly 50 years on, things haven’t

changed, men still dominate the highest realms of government, business and religious institutions.

What has occurred in the last months of 2017, is a clash of cultures. The truth that many men in power believed that the society of 1960s and ’70s allowed them to abuse women and their belief was so strong, they were unable to move into a new world of respect wedged

up against the essence of the women’s liberation movement that started in the 1960s.

At its heart, women’s liberation was always about having the female voice heard, considered and owning an appropriately influential place in society.

In 2017, we have a watershed moment when this is spectacularly happening. In some ways, I see it rather like the process of Truth and Reconciliation commissions undertaken by various nations, as a process of healing after undergoing dreadful atrocities. Right now, we are at the face of truth, I trust that after this, the next step will be an honest reconciliation.

TI PL C A B K T O E I O N K T N S UM O A W L A TO M N SE O D C ST D U R S IA E YO O MO L U D N R SP O D O U T! T

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

BUY A CHRISTMAS PRESENT FOR YOU AND YOUR FRIENDS THAT REALLY HITS THE MARK! With only a limited amount of tickets available you do not want to miss out on two of the best nights you will have for a long time!

Come and see some of the world’s best dart players and be part of Queensland‘s first professional televised darts event on Fox Sports!

NIGHT ONE

NIGHT TWO

WEDNESDAY JANUARY

THURSDAY JANUARY

17

+

BRISBANE // GOLD COAST // TOWNSVILLE // MACKAY

Proudly supported by

18

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT

GOLD COAST EVENTS CENTRE (GC TURF CLUB)

www.prodartsshowdownseries.com.au

RACECOURSE DR, BUNDALL QLD 4217

6729615ai

14 Seniors Northern NSW

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, December 18, 2017

ADVERTISEMENT

All Things Legal BE CAREFUL WHO YOU APPOINT AS YOUR ENDURING POWER OF ATTORNEY! FINANCIAL ABUSE BY ATTORNEYS WHO ARE FAMILY MEMBERS Wills & Estates Lawyer Amanda Smith discusses this very important topic amongst our elderly and incapacitated in the community.

We recently wrote about the alarming statistics surrounding Elder Abuse in our country which includes financial abuse by attorneys who are family members. Increasingly, attention within the legal fraternity is being paid to the plight of the elderly who become the subject of various forms of abuse. Sadly, we see the abuse of relationships of trust too often. Frequently those relationships exist between family members where an Enduring Power of Attorney has been signed in favour of a family member, usually by an elderly parent or grandparent.

An attorney appointed by a Power of Attorney has significant responsibilities under law which must be complied with. A Power of Attorney is a legal document that you can use to appoint someone (your attorney) to act on your behalf - that is, to be your decision maker - in property and financial matters. An Enduring Power of Attorney continues to operate after you lose mental capacity. The types of decisions an attorney can make include, but are not limited to, buying and selling real estate, operating bank accounts, dealing with government agencies, dealing with telco providers, and paying bills. Depending on in what State the documents are prepared, an attorney can also make decisions about your lifestyle and health (this is the case in Queensland). In New South Wales, a Guardian under an Appointment of Enduring Guardian can make your lifestyle and health decisions.

DUTIES OF ATTORNEYS The legislation governing an appointment of an attorney imposes high standards of conduct on the attorney. It is well established that an agent (the attorney) owes the principal (the person who gives the power) a fiduciary duty. A fiduciary duty is a legal duty to act in the best interests of another. This means that all actions taken and decisions made pursuant to the Power of Attorney must be in the interests of the principal and where there is a conflict between the interests of the two, the attorney must accord priority to the interests of the principal. A significant form of financial abuse is the unlawful acquisition of the principal’s assets and using the principal's money for the attorney's personal use or gain.

An attorney must not gain a benefit from being an attorney and must keep their own money and property separate from that of the principal’s. For example, an attorney should not transfer the principal’s money into their own bank account to pay the principal’s bills. The attorney should also keep reasonable accounts and records of the principal’s money and property. If an attorney is paying a principal’s bills they should keep a record of what they are paying as they can be called upon to demonstrate what they have done with the money, as they have a duty to protect and preserve a principal’s assets.

Attorneys are too often entering into conflict transactions and need to be aware of the duties which they take on when they accept their appointment as attorney. A conflict transaction is outlined under section 73(2) of the Powers of Attorney Act 1998 (Qld) as a transaction where a conflict arises between the duty owed to a principal by the attorney and the interests of the attorney (or someone who might be a relation, business associate or close friend of the attorney). A few examples of conflict transactions are where an attorney:• Purchases an asset of the principal’s for themselves (e.g. the principal’s car); • Uses the principal’s money to make loans to themselves, family members, friends etc; and • Uses the principal’s money to purchase a house for the attorney to live in.

A principal can authorise an attorney to enter into a conflict transaction but this must be expressed in the Power of Attorney and it is important that the attorney still acts diligently. In addition, an attorney acting pursuant to a Queensland Power of Attorney can use the principal’s assets to maintain the principal’s dependants as long as it is reasonable in the circumstances. However, under a New South Wales Power of Attorney the attorney would only have the power to use the principal’s assets for a third person if it was expressed in the document.

An attorney must be very cautious when making transactions dealing with the principal’s money and property.

Any transaction made MUST be entered into and authorised in the exercise of a Power of Attorney. If an attorney fails to comply with their obligations they can be required to compensate the principal or even the principal’s estate (if the principal has passed away) for the loss that they caused. If the transaction was not affected by the use of a Power of Attorney this does not mean that the party acting wrongfully gets off scot free. We often find in these situations the attorney is likely to be found guilty of undue influence.

UNDUE INFLUENCE A transaction that occurs between an attorney and a principal automatically gives rise to a presumption in the principal’s favour that the principal was induced to enter into the transaction by the attorney’s undue influence. For instance, if Joe held a power of attorney for John and John transferred his car to Joe, it is presumed that John was induced to enter into the transaction by Joe’s undue influence. This is even the case where there is no concern regarding the principal’s mental capacity to enter into the transaction.

Where a presumption of undue influence arises, it is for the person who wishes to uphold the transaction to rebut it by establishing that the other party to the transaction entered into it as a result of a free and well understood exercise of his own will, not as a result of the influence. It is up to the attorney to prove the transaction was authorised and/or appropriate. Relevant to the rebuttal of the presumption are whether the party said to have been unduly influenced: (a) Had the benefit of independent advice; (b) Knew or understood the extent to which the transaction was advantageous or disadvantageous from his or her perspective; (c) Was motivated to enter into the transaction by factors other than the relationship of influence complained of.

Attorneys need to be careful that they do not enter into a transaction that automatically gives rise to a presumption of undue influence. It can be difficult to successfully argue the above matters rebutting the presumption, particularly in a family situation and especially where independent advice is not obtained. This can be compounded, if the principal then goes on to lose capacity and the attorneys are questioned about transactions.

To this end, it is important that where any significant transaction between attorney and principal is contemplated, both parties seek independent advice to ensure the transaction is not set aside.

It is quite common for a parent to want to give gifts of money or chattels to their children, but when the child is also their attorney, this can cause suspicion and jealousy amongst other siblings. We have been involved in many cases where the attorney says ‘Mum gave me her car’ or ‘Mum loaned me the money to buy my house but said I didn’t have to pay it back’. This is very difficult if you are also an attorney!

WHO SHOULD I APPOINT AS MY ATTORNEY? SHOULD I APPOINT MORE THAN ONE? It is very important when creating a Power of Attorney that you carefully consider who you want to be your attorney and that you appoint someone who you trust. It is a good idea to appoint more than one attorney, acting jointly so they can keep each other in check and to have a reserve just in case something happens to them. Sometimes it is wise to appoint an independent person such as a lawyer or accountant to be your attorney or a co-attorney if you are concerned your children may not act in your best interests or don’t get on. You should also seek legal advice when creating a Power of Attorney from lawyers who specialise in this area of law, so that the correct powers and restrictions are noted in that document which will allow the attorneys to carry out their duties in the way you wish.

WHO DO I GO TO IF THERE IS ABUSE? If someone believes that an attorney is abusing a principal by using their powers for their own use or gain and/ or is entering into conflict transactions, then they can make an application to the appropriate Tribunal in their State (NCAT in NSW or QCAT in QLD) and have the Tribunal investigate the principal's affairs. You may also report the matter to the Adult Gurdian.

If you are someone who believes their Power of Attorney has been abused, or if you are an attorney requiring some assistance with the execution of your duties, or you would like assistance in preparation of a Power of Attorney please do not hesitate to contact our Wills & Estates Department Manager, Donna Tolley on free call 1800 621 071 or direct line 07 5506 8241 or email dtolley@attwoodmarshall.com.au.

Freecall 1800

621 071

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

Money

Costs and issues of downsizing FINANCE TONY KAYE

We warmly welcome to the Seniors editorial team the very experienced finance writer Tony Kaye, who is the editor of Eureka Report and has spent more than 30 years working as a financial editor, journalist and commentator.

AUSTRALIA’S property market could get an unexpected volume boost from mid-next year when the Federal Government’s new home downsizing program, announced in the last budget, is due to come into effect.

That’s assuming the legislation passes and that a sizeable number of eligible Australians take up the option of selling their principal place of residence to buy a smaller home, with a view to injecting more money into their superannuation.

Some may already be planning out their house sale. But doing so, without proper advice, could be a really bad financial move.

Firstly, here’s what the government announced in the May budget as part of a series of initiatives aimed at freeing up housing stock across the country for upsizers and younger families.

From July 1, 2018, individuals aged 65 or over will be able to sell their principal place of residence if it has been held for a minimum of 10 years, and deposit up to $300,000 of the proceeds into their superannuation account.

Couples will be able to deposit up to $600,000.

The existing restrictions on voluntary contributions for people aged 65 and

older, including the work test for those aged between 65 and 74 years old, and the ban on super contributions for those aged 75 and over, will not apply. Neither will the restrictions on making further non-concessional contributions for people with account balances above $1.6 million.

On the surface, the policy could be regarded as a win-win for retirees and those seeking out a home.

However, before heading down the pathway to downsizing your home, it’s very important to tally up both the raw costs and the potential risks.

Depending on your circumstances, including where you live and where you intend to buy, and your total assets position, selling up and buying another property could become a decision you’ll later regret. As well as the substantial costs associated with selling and buying a property, home downsizing will result in many individuals or couples losing part or all of their existing or future age pension entitlements.

THE RAW COSTS OF MOVING

Moving home is never cheap, but there’s a stark difference in selling and buying costs based on location, and what you sell and buy. I’ve calculated the median costs of moving home in each of Australia’s eight capital cities, taking into account the general costs incurred when selling and buying.

Canberra is Australia’s cheapest downsizing capital for pensioners, with a median changeover cost of $23,497. That’s because all pensioners pay virtually no stamp duty on property purchases in the Australian Capital Territory. Victoria has a full

or partial stamp duty concession scheme for eligible pensioners, provided the value of a property does not exceed certain levels. Under those price thresholds, no stamp duty is payable.

Darwin is the only other capital city to apply a pensioner stamp duty discount, taking $10,000 off the governing rate.

No surprises that Sydney is the most expensive downsizing capital, with a median changeover cost of $59,416, followed by Melbourne with a median changeover cost of $45,961 (based on a partial stamp duty concession).

The median prices for houses and units in all the major cities are based on recent CoreLogic data, and calculations assume most will sell a larger house to buy a smaller unit. That’s what downsizing is about.

However, depending on which suburbs you are buying and selling in, the costs of downsizing may be much higher.

Total costs take into account the general costs of selling and buying, including fees, commissions and stamp duty.

I’ve applied a standard real estate agent commission of 2.5 per cent and $5000 for marketing. These costs can vary considerably.

I’ve also applied a standard conveyancing cost of $1000 for both selling and buying. Again, this cost will vary.

Typically, there are additional costs – mainly with selling a house – such as for pre-sale repairs and maintenance, and sometimes for staging furniture.

These can easily add thousands to the cost.

More online at seniorsnews.com.au.

Northern NSW

Monday, December 18, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 15

Travel

10 top travel wardrobe items Ann Rickard

WE’VE all done it – over-packed. A heavy suitcase loaded with clothes, most of which will not be worn, is a curse to all travellers, especially the senior.

Travel author Ann Rickard spoke to Lee Watt, of Brisbane’s Soubret Pink boutique, who can help women construct 20 different looks from just 10 pieces. The secret lies in being disciplined and the benefits are stress-free travel.

1. Stick to the numbers: two pairs of pants, six tops, one of them doubling as a lightweight cardigan/jacket. That’s it. Oh, shoes... of

course, they don’t come into the 10 items, but you’ll need three pairs.

And scarves, three of them.

2. The pants or jeans should be black or navy to create a basic background.

Comfort is essential.

Mac Jay make a good pull-on jean without any hardware at the front that will accentuate the tummy. They are stretchy, don’t cut you in half and come in sizes 8 through 20. They are even comfortable to wear on a long-haul flight. A straight-leg jean is best. It can be worn as casual during the day and dressed-up for evening wear. Basic black pants will go with

everything.

3. Six tops are all you need. Some can be plain, others must have black or navy in them.

Mela Purdie and Verge make beautiful and flattering tops suitable for the mature woman.

Every top must co-ordinate with the jeans or pants.

4. Three scarves will help bring the outfits together or make them look different. Perhaps a plain white or black scarf and one with some navy or black in it.

The scarves will double as wraps to keep you warm or work as an accessory when tied different ways.

5. Three pairs of shoes.

A walking shoe, a good

casual shoe for day wear and a pair for evening.

That’s it. No more.

6. Two bags. A small evening bag, one travelling bag. Baggallini do a good travel bag designed by two American flight attendants. It has zips and pockets for passports and documents, and it also has room for your laptop.

7. Four items of costume jewellery (plus earrings). Never take good jewellery when travelling. Lee suggests two short and two long necklaces, and if you have one in gold and one with pearls you can put them together for a double look.

8. One of the tops that doubles as a cardigan.

If you are going to a very cold country in winter, you can still work with just these basic pieces, but you will need a good warm coat, a hat, gloves and boots.

You wear your outers and just peel off when inside to the basic pieces. You don’t need heavy jumpers and cardigans.

9. Choose items in fabrics that don’t wrinkle or need ironing and can be rolled for packing. The ten items chosen will all fit into a small 7kg carry-on case and leave room for toiletries. If you stick to the ten items rule you can make the different

outfits show variety and style and they will do you for a three-week holiday.

10. We all make mistakes and throw in something extra. It takes discipline to stick to the ten items, so when packing, no drinking wine.

Feedback on this approach has been excellent. One woman who disciplined herself to stick to the 10, wrote: “It was so liberating, so easy to pack and go every morning. I didn’t need to think of what to put together each day. I went to top class restaurants, hiked in the jungle, slept in hammocks and stayed at Raffles, all with just those pieces...”.

16 Seniors Northern NSW

Travel

SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL: Straddie is blessed with over half a dozen stunning beaches.

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, December 18, 2017

Straddie is home to land mammals including wallabies, kangaroos, echidnas, koalas, bandicoots, turtles and birdlife.

Straddie is a classic

Stradbroke Island is a stunning holiday location for locals and visitors Shirley Sinclair

JUST like that Golden Breed t-shirt from the 1970s that was so cool and comfortable to wear, Stradbroke Island is a classic.

It’s the family beach holiday idea that can be pulled out of the cupboard at a moment’s notice and everyone will be happy with the choice.

That’s because Straddie, as it is affectionately known, never wears out its appeal for the surfer, the foodie, the nature lover, the beachcomber and even the “lazy bones” who simply enjoys relaxing and taking in the spectacular scenery.

And what you see is what you get, year after year.

Sitting on Brisbane’s doorstep, just a 45 minute vehicular ferry ride across Moreton Bay from Cleveland, the great majority of Straddie’s 27,530ha has barely changed over the decades

and has always remained true to itself.

Locals and visitors have vehemently resisted the idea of a costly bridge link to Brisbane, so the world’s second-largest sand island hasn’t been loved to death.

To the casual observer, Straddie remains largely undiscovered.

The wide variety of accommodation isn’t dominated by hotels and resorts, but rather by house and apartment rentals (even original beach shacks) and camping and cabin facilities (including glamping tents at Adder Rock Campground).

Long beach walks on sandy stretches of pristine beach and over weathered rock pools barely encounter a soul on weekdays.

The bush, ocean and suburban townships (Dunwich, Amity Point and Point Lookout) still teem with birds and wildlife all-year round.

The clear, pristine

Stradbroke Island will not disappoint with its abundance of beauty.

waters are naturally refreshing for humans and a favourite haunt for frolicking humpbacks during the annual whale migration from late May to early November.

Classic Straddie is the 20 minute drive from Dunwich to Point Lookout and pulling up at the surf club carpark for that first

panorama of 32km Main Beach.

It’s pinpointing the perfect patch of sand to park the 4WD, setting up the gazebo for shade under a cloudless sky and settling in for a day of unadulterated bliss with no one else within cooee of you. It’s battling ferocious shore dumps to

get out the back amid the turtles, colourful fish and dolphins while waiting for a 6-8ft beauty to catch back into shore.

Classic Straddie is hotfooting it across golden sand to bodysurf Cylinder Beach, followed by fish and chips or a cold seafood lunch straight off the trawler.

It’s the 7km drive inland from Dunwich to Brown Lake for a lazy, wet loll before a picnic at Amity Point.

Classic Straddie is a cold ale under a huge outdoor umbrella in the Stradbroke Island Beach Hotel beer garden, overlooking the water.

It’s the cheeky male kookaburra perching himself on a patio railing, hoping for a free dinner, and playing fetch with your dog on Home Beach.

Classic Straddie is taking the North Gorge Walk and encountering a family of kangaroos on dusk, or waiting for turtles in the washing-machine-like gorge to come up for air.

It’s taking a seat on the vehicular ferry deck outside the cafe, drinking in the Moreton Bay views.

So what if you wear Old Guys Rule t-shirt these days? Just like Straddie, you’re still a classic.

For more information about Stradbroke, visit stradbrokeisland.com.

Risking it: Seniors are more daring on holiday than you may think YOUNGER Australians are not the only ones more likely to engage in risky behaviour on holiday.

A survey* commissioned by NSW Trustee & Guardian reveals 40% of seniors in New South Wales are more likely to do new or risky things on holiday

than at home, including trying new types of foods, drinking more alcohol than normal, trusting strangers and doing more strenuous activities.

In light of this, NSW Trustee & Guardian is reminding older Australians to make sure they have a valid and

up-to-date Will and Power of Attorney in place before you head off on your next trip.

While a legally valid and up-to-date will helps to ensure your assets end up in the right hands if the unthinkable happens, it is also advisable to have

appointed an impartial and experienced attorney under a Power of Attorney before taking any trip.

An attorney should be a trusted person or organisation who has the ability to take care of your financial affairs with your best interests in mind.

It can be quite a demanding role, so an attorney needs to have expertise in financial and legal areas.

NSW Trustee & Guardian has been providing, independent and impartial planning ahead services to the people of NSW for over

100 years.

To find out more, phone the Lismore branch on 1300 721 872 or start online at www.tag.nsw.gov.au. *Pureprofile survey of 2005 Australians, June 2012.

ADVERTORIAL

Northern NSW

Monday, December 18, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 17

23 DAY MAJESTIC PRINCESS FLY- STAY- CRUISE

LAST CABINS LEFT ON MAIDEN VOYAGE TO AUSTRALIA DEPARTS BRISBANE 22 AUGUST 2018

FROM $4,999* INSIDE CABIN OR

$5,499 BALCONY CABIN

per person twin share

INCLUDES:   

 

Flight one-way from Brisbane to Shanghai 2 nights twin share accommodation in Shanghai 20 day cruise from Shanghai to Brisbane on Majestic Princess with 6 ports of call; Busan, South Korea; Hong Kong, China; Nha Trang & Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Singapore and Darwin, Australia Onboard credit of AU$85 per cabin Pre-cruise China tour & accommodation options available

19 DAY GRAND MEDITERRANEAN ESCORTED FLY-STAY-CRUISE DEPARTS BRISBANE 17 MAY 2018

From $5,670

per person, twin share Fantastica Inside cabin

INCLUDES:     

     

Economy Airfares to Milan & return from Venice with taxes Escorted by Helloworld Travel Professional, Lyndie Dennehy Arrival transfer from Milan Airport to 4* Genoa Hotel for 1 night Transfer from Genoa hotel to Genoa Cruise Port 7 night Western Med cruise on MSC Opera - Fantastica Class Coach transfer from Genoa to Venice between cruises 7 night Eastern Med cruise on MSC Sinfonia - Fantastica Class Transfer from Venice port to 4* Venice hotel for 2 nights Transfer from Venice hotel by water taxi to Venice Airport Cruise upgrade packages to Ocean View & Balcony cabins Options to extend your stay in Europe

1300 737 544

tripaway@helloworld.com.au tripaway.com.au

Murwillumbah Tweed City Tweed Heads Coolangatta Elanora

Main St, Murwillumbah Tweed City Shopping Centre Tweed Mall Shopping Centre The Strand at Coolangatta The Pines Shopping Centre

*Terms & Conditions apply: Offers subject to availability, may be withdrawn or amended at any time and are subject to change until paid in full. Very limited availability of cabins and costs based on Earlybird airfares which may change without notice until paid in full. Group price based on minimum numbers. See in-store for full details,

18 Seniors Northern NSW

Travel

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, December 18, 2017

Tour Latin America’s fabulous attractions

THE world’s tallest waterfall, driest desert, longest mountain range and biggest carnival are all found in Latin America, with the spectacular natural and cultural marvels drawing increasing numbers of tourists to the continent each year.

As Australia’s first and longest-running tour operator for Latin America, Contours Travel has released a list of the top 15 record-breaking attractions across South and Central America: 1. Tallest waterfall in the world – Angel Falls, Venezuela At 979m tall, the majestic Angel Falls tumbles from a cleft on the edge of the Auyan-tepui mountain. It is considered one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders.

2. Widest street in the world – July 9 Ave, Buenos Aires Buenos Aires’ grand boulevard, July 9 Ave, is the world’s widest street.

Named after Argentina’s Independence Day, the avenue is 140m wide and includes seven lanes of traffic in each direction and another two parallel side streets as well as medians containing monuments and gardens.

3. Driest desert in the world – Atacama Desert, Chile The huge Atacama

SPECTACULAR: Angel Falls in Venezuela is the tallest waterfall in the world, standing at 979m tall.

Desert receives on average 15mm of rain a year, while many of its weather stations have never recorded a single drop.

4. Highest volcano in the world – Nevado Ojos del Salado, Argentina/ Chile Towering 6893m above sea level, the world’s highest active volcano is

located on the border of Argentina and Chile.

5. Biggest rainforest in the world – Amazon Rainforest Spreading across the territory of nine different countries, the Amazon Rainforest covers 5.5 million square kilometres.

The Amazon River is also the world’s largest river in volume, containing 20 per

cent of the Earth’s fresh water.

6. Deepest Canyon in the Americas – Cotahuasi Canyon, Peru With a depth of 335m – twice the depth of the Grand Canyon – Cotahuasi Canyon is also among the deepest in the world.

7. Highest capital city in the world – La Paz, Bolivia Located 3640m above sea level and 1400m higher than Australia’s Mt Kosciusko, La Paz is also an important cultural and historical attraction.

8. Longest mountain range in the world – the Andes At 7000km long and stretching across seven countries, the Andes is the longest mountain range on the planet.

9. Oldest ruins in the Americas – Caral, Peru Dating back to 2000 BC, Caral is exceptionally well-preserved, features pyramids, monuments and temples and is sometimes known as the “cradle of civilisation”.

10. Closest point on Earth to the Sun – Mt Chimborazo, Ecuador Because of the Earth’s bulge at the equator, the 6268m Mt Chimborazo is the farthest point from the centre of the planet and the closest to the sun.

11. World’s First World Heritage Site – Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Lake Titicaca in Peru/Bolivia is the highest navigable lake in the world.

In 1978, the Galapagos Islands was designed as one of UNESCO’s first World Heritage sites because of its abundant, rare and diverse wildlife.

12. Southernmost town in the world – Puerto Williams, Chile Located 54 degrees south of the equator, the far-south Patagonian town of Puerto Williams (population 3000) sits just south across the channel from the world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia (population 57,000).

13. Longest and narrowest countries in the world Many assume Chile, which stretches 4270km and contains seven distinct climates, is the world’s longest country from north to south but Brazil beats it by just 125km. Nevertheless, Chile takes the record for the world’s narrowest country, averaging a width of just 175km.

14. Biggest carnival in

the world – Carnaval, Rio de Janeiro Rio’s vibrant and colourful annual festival is held before Lent in February each year and attracts about two million people a day. Its origins date back to 1723.

15. Highest navigable lake in the world – Lake Titicaca, Peru/Bolivia Fabled as hiding the lost city of Atlantis beneath its surface, Lake Titicaca sits 3810m above sea level and is a popular tourist destination.

Contours Travel offers an extensive range of hosted trips and purpose-built itineraries designed for independent travellers, taking Australians to many of Latin America’s record-breaking attractions and other natural, cultural and historic sites.

For details phone Contours Travel on 1300 135 391 or go to www.contourstravel .com.au.

The ultimate cruise LIVE the dream on the ultimate cruise around the world in 2019.

An on-board spending bonus of up to $2000 a person is available for modern-day explorers keen to circumnavigate the world by ship from Australia in 2019.

A must-do experience for many cruise lovers – the grand 106-night, round-the-world voyage aboard the 1950-passenger Sea Princess – will stretch 63,000km and take in 39 destinations in 32 countries across five continents.

Unlike other globe-trotting ships, locally based Sea Princess offers an on-board currency in Australian dollars, with

no on-board tipping or currency exchange hassles.

On sale through Cruise Express, the World Cruise sails from Sydney on May 14, 2019, enabling passengers to escape winter.

From Australia, the voyage heads north to Komodo Island, Singapore and Sri Lanka.

The itinerary then traces a route to Oman, Dubai and Jordan, then through the Suez Canal to Malta, Spain, Holland, the UK and Germany, as well as Scandinavia and Russia.

Offering a diverse mix of popular ports and more remote, less visited destinations, the cruise then heads west to Iceland, the US and the

Caribbean before traversing the Panama Canal to Ecuador, Peru, Easter Island, Pitcairn Island and Tahiti.

New Zealand is the last stop before the ship returns to Sydney on August 29, 2019.

The bucket-list voyage offers overnight stays in New York, St Petersburg and Dubai to allow more in-depth exploration.

Late-night departures are scheduled for 10 other ports on the itinerary so passengers can enjoy the local night life or a walk ashore after dinner.

Cruise Express managing director Meg Hill, said round-the-world cruises were increasingly popular.

“As Australians

ROUND THE WORLD: Experience the Sea Princess, which will take in Akaroa, New Zealand, among 39 destinations on its 106-night voyage.

become more seasoned cruisers, many are seeking longer and more extensive itineraries,” Ms Hill said.

“Seeing the world by ship offers great value and there are no flights or constant packing and

unpacking so it’s hassle-free and very relaxing.”

Until booked out, fares for the full 106-night world cruise are available from $23,599 a person.

Australians booking the whole cruise will

receive up to $1000 a person on-board credit and up to another $1000 if they have cruised with Princess Cruises before.

Phone Cruise Express on 1300 766 537 or visit www.cruiseexpress. com.au.

Northern NSW

Monday, December 18, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

What’s on JOURNALIST YVONNE GARDINER

yvonne.gardiner@apn.com.au

CELTIC DANCE

THE Celtic Circle Dance School is a fun, fresh dance school catering to all ages.

The school focuses on learning traditional Irish steps and footwork, with the more graceful form of using arms and skirts, loosely based on the Highland and Galician dance forms. It is a non-competitive Irish Dance School, but they do love to take part in displays and the local eisteddfods. Their vibe is a mixture of exploring Celtic pagan roots, traditional steps with contemporary Celtic music and romantic costuming. Held 4-5pm on December 19 at Bexhill Hall, 2 Clunes Street, Bexhill. Details on www.facebook.com/ celticcircledance or phone Karen Clark on 0431 425 298.

FRESH PRODUCE

THE Nimbin Farmers’ Market is held each Wednesday afternoon, next held December 20 from 3pm.

A great opportunity to buy fresh produce with very limited food miles, including bread, meat, vegetables, tofu, cheeses, and other seasonal fruit and vegies.

All produce is grown locally, by local farmers, for the enjoyment and health benefits of locals and visitors to the village.

A free event from 3-6pm at Green Bank Carpark, 39 Cullen Street, Nimbin.

Inquiries to Jason Grignan on (02) 6689 1512.

FUN IN THE SUN: Beach goers participate in the hokey pokey contest at Greenmount Beach in 1953.

KINGSCLIFF MARKETS

KINGSCLIFF Markets are held in Jack Bayliss Park on Marine Parade, Kingscliff, the second and fourth Saturday of every month from 7am-1pm, including December 23, with the picturesque backdrop of Kingscliff Beach. There is plenty of parking on Marine Parade.

With a beautiful beachfront location and an array of local produce, Kingscliff Markets are truly enjoyable for all ages. Spend a relaxing Saturday morning strolling through the vast array of gourmet food, produce, craft, artwork, fashion, jewellery, flowers, gifts and food stalls. Why not pick up some fresh fruit and vegetables and have an afternoon feast or swim after browsing through the stalls? See kingscliffmarkets.com (fortnightly event).

FOLK CLUB

THE Channon Folk Club is a group of local volunteers who donate their time to organise an open

microphone on the fourth Sunday of the month. Now in recess and next meeting February 25 starting at 2pm. They encourage a mix of musical styles with an acoustic feel. Venue is The Channon Butterfactory Tavern, 51 Terania Street, The Channon. Inquiries to Ray Flanagan on (02) 6688 6100 or email thechannonfolk club2.com.au.

FRUITS FESTIVAL

THE Tropical Fruits New Year’s Festival is a celebration held in the city of Lismore NSW, an area rather appropriately known as the Rainbow Region. This is a celebration of LGBTI culture, which has a strong presence in the region. This New Year’s Eve we welcome you into midnight in the Garden of Fruity Delights, as we illuminate the darkness and unlock the gates to our lost neon wonderland.

For 2017, the four-day festival includes the street parade along Molesworth Street on

Friday, December 29 (from 4pm), the New Year’s Eve Party at the showgrounds on Sunday, December 31 (from 8pm-6am), the pool party at the Lismore Memorial Baths on Monday, January 1 (from 10am-4pm) and the recovery party at the showgrounds on January 1 from (4pm-1.30am). See tropicalfruits.org.au.

EASTERN FLY-IN

THE Great Eastern Fly-In is a unique Australian aviation event. Pilots, their families and friends fly in from all over Australia on January 6 and 7 to enjoy a great summer holiday with a difference. Locals, young and old, come to marvel at the latest in aircraft, air displays, and have the ride of their lives.

See the Aviation Museum, RPA/drone flying, re-enactment groups, Rural Fire Service, kids’ activities, aviation stalls and model clubs. Talk to pilots who have built their own planes. The event is held at Memorial Airport Drive, Evans Head, NSW. greateasternflyin.com or phone 6621 5592. Free.

STREET PARTY

SOUL Street is Byron Bay’s New Year’s Eve family-friendly street party, hosted by Byron Community Centre. With Jonson Street closed off, it becomes the colourful hub of this interactive town gathering. The centre of town will be filled with market stalls, food vendors, face painters, four stages, numerous bands, buskers, circus performers, fire twirlers, drummers and children’s activities. All the market stalls will run down the centre of Jonson Street from Byron Community Centre to Lawson Lane and throughout Railway Park. Jonson Street is closed, along with Railway Park, from 4pm. The alcohol-free event on December 31 runs from 4pm-midnight. Free parking will be available in Butler Street Reserve, a short walk from the Byron Bay CBD. Email info@byroncentre.com.au.

ROCK LEGENDS

VETERAN Aussie rock star Issi Dye presents his Legends of Rock ‘n’ Roll show on Tuesday, January 9 at 10.30am. Starring with Issi will be award-winning Roy Orbison presenter Glenn Douglas.

Issi will perform his legendary tribute to Johnny O’Keefe as well as join Glenn in the Everly Bros show. Supporting the show will be one of the Gold Coast’s most popular singers, Wendy Andrew, known for her tributes to Cher, Tina Turner and Shania Twain. A great line-up of Aussie talent and wonderful songs to sing along with. Ticket prices $7 to $15 for the show at Twin Towns, Wharf Street (corner of Boundary Street), Tweed Heads.

Free call booking office 1800 014 014.

Seniors 19

ABORIGINAL ART

INCREASINGLY, creativity is being seen as a major indicator in improving people’s health and well-being. Art on Bundjalung Country is a major partnership between the Lismore Regional Gallery, Arts Northern Rivers, North Coast Primary Health Network, Bulgarr Ngaru Aboriginal Medical Corporation and University Centre for Rural Health to stimulate artistic practice for emerging Aboriginal artists to enhance their social, economic and health outcomes.

Throughout 2017, a series of workshops have been held across the region by established Aboriginal artists to pass on their creative skills to emerging Aboriginal artists. An exhibition of their work is on show at the Lismore gallery (11 Rural Street) until February 11.

TOKENS OF TRAVEL

SENDING postcards and buying a souvenir or two were once part and parcel of a trip away, before the days of personal cameras and instant selfies.

Ceramic dishes, trinkets, cups and saucers, toothpick holders, spoons and tea towels were some of the most popular take-home items.

Charming examples of all these souvenirs from the early 1900s through to the present are among Tweed Regional Museum’s latest exhibition, Wish you were here: tokens of travel. The exhibition continues until May 2018 and includes a strong focus on holidays at the beach, which was a big reason for holidaying in the Tweed and around the border. Items depict Murwillumbah and coastal and rural villages. See: museum.tweed. nsw.gov.au.

Print exhibition on show at new studio COMMUNITY Print Makers of Murwillumbah are looking forward to a bright and productive future after moving into a studio at picturesque Stokers Siding.

Their former long-term premises at Bray Park was moved off its foundations when three metres of water went through it during the March/April flood.

Members managed to save the all-important presses and plan drawers.

CPM president Peter

Schardin, a member since 1990, said the new, character-filled studio was “going good”.

“It’s a really good space and lots of people come through,” he said.

The group holds open days every Friday from 10am to 3pm.

Visitors are welcome to view the exhibition of artworks and see printmaking in action, like metal plate etching, one of the oldest forms of printing.

They can also explore

etching and relief printing, lino and woodcut.

“Anybody can come in who’s interested and we can show them how to do the prints,” he said.

“But they can’t work unless they’re a member.

“As a printmaker, I can show people what to do and they can ask questions.

“There are hundreds of ways you can do a print, so many varieties.

“It’s very creative and diverse.”

CPM was established in

1989 as a not-for-profit group to further the art of fine art printmaking.

They are now tenants at Stokers Siding for two years, courtesy of a NSW Rural Assistance Authority grant.

CPM treasurer Sue Chakos, a member for 10 years, said there was a possibility of space at the Murwillumbah showground in the future.

“We are not a teaching facility, but we can guide people,” Sue said.

“It’s a very experimental

NEW STUDIO: Community Print Makers of Murwillumbah, treasurer, Sue Chakos and president, Peter Schardin welcome visitors to the studio.

PHOTO: YVONNE GARDINER

art form.”

The new CPM Print studio is at Shop 1, 224 Stokers Rd, Stokers Siding, opposite the park.

Email cpmmurwillumbah @hotmail.com or call Peter on 0427 545 672 for details.

20 Seniors Northern NSW

Personalities

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, December 18, 2017

Jimmy grapples with his demons Yvonne Gardiner

THE pain of a povertystricken childhood marred by violence is hard for anyone to shake off.

Australian rock legend Jimmy Barnes tried for many years, numbing his anguish with an abundance of alcohol, drugs and wild behaviour.

In recent times, he has beaten his “demons” by writing about his life in a two-volume autobiography, laying bare the disappointments, drug-taking, violence, shame and desperation of a man frequently “out of control”.

Working Class Man is the second volume, released last month. At the start of this book, 17-year-old Jimmy leaves his childhood home in Elizabeth, Adelaide, with his new band, Cold Chisel.

Despite all the charttopping records in the years that followed, both with the band and solo, the fame, adulation and

good fortune, Jimmy’s “demons” stuck relentlessly by his side.

For him, writing his autobiography was part of the healing process.

“It allowed me to put some of those demons in their place at last,” he said.

“The sooner I open up and let this poison out, the better things will be.

“It’s taken 60 years and I’m still afraid, but I have to put some things back on track before it’s too late.”

Jimmy felt an overwhelming need to “get over” his painful childhood experiences to benefit his family, especially his grandchildren.

“If I didn’t, they would have to struggle with demons that I had brought from my childhood into theirs,” he said.

“If you want to change the way you feel about yourself, especially when you feel as bad as I did about myself, then you

have to do things that you are proud of.

“Singing gave me a sense of being worth something.

“I used to go to church so I could sing in the choir.”

His first best-selling book, Working Class Boy, is a harrowing story of a Scottish migrant boy from Glasgow, growing up with his parents, Jim and Dorothy Swan, and five siblings in an impoverished and violent household.

It was a tough tale to tell. Drunkenness, child abuse, fighting and the shame of his deprived circumstances come into play.

His alcoholic, abusive father was not a good role model.

“He’d send me to neighbours to borrow money,” Jimmy said.

“I swore I would never be like my parents.”

Jimmy’s affection for his mother, Dot – who gave birth to five children

before the age of 21 – is all too obvious from his writings.

“My mum was a tough woman,” he said.

“I can only guess what her life was like. Her life was atrocious. “(My father’s) problems got worse and she was 2000 miles from support.

“The safest I’ve ever felt was when she held me in her arms.”

Dot died in September 2016, before Jimmy’s first book was published.

“I’m glad she didn’t have to read (the autobiography), because she lived it,” Jimmy said.

“She wouldn’t have liked to think that she’s damaged us.”

The damage, the demons Jimmy speaks of, has taken its toll.

“It’s been a lifetime battle to get over it,” he said.

“I’ve had a lot of therapy for years.”

The love and support from his “darling” wife Jane, children and

BACK ON TRACK: Jimmy Barnes travels the country promoting his second book, his long-lasting “road to ruin”.

grandchildren have helped. In his battle against alcoholism and drug addiction, Jimmy has had times of clarity.

“Love, peace and quiet was all I really wanted,” he said.

The Barnes family spent some time in France after a financial collapse. Even

there, Jimmy was still “troubled”. His adult life has been a rollercoaster ride of career successes and disappointments, of riotous behaviour and self-destructive tendencies. Many of his records have topped the charts and his fans adore him no matter what.

BUY THE DIARY THAT SAVES LIVES We Australians are practical people. We like things that work, that are useful, that do something – like The Australian Women’s Health Diary.

Not only is the 2018 diary a practical way to organise our busy lives, it’s packed with health issues important to women – like breast, heart, bone, family and mental health, along with diet, exercise, skincare and lots more.

And, most practical of all, every dollar raised from this diary goes to clinical trials research that saves and improves the lives of people with breast cancer, every day.

Buy the diary and help to save lives today, tomorrow and forever.

LISA WILKINSON – Media personality, mother and wife.

Supported by The Australian Women’s Weekly, AVON and Commonwealth Bank

18.95 and AVON Representatives (avon.com.au)

$

from Newsagents, Woolworths, Magshop.com.au

breastcancertrials.org.au tel:1800 423 444

Northern NSW

Monday, December 18, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Reviews Age well as you enter new age

GERONTOLOGIST Dr Drew Dwyer is known internationally as one of the most inspiring, knowledgeable and engaging gerontologists in the aged care industry.

Ageing in the New Age – A Survival Guide for Baby Boomers is his newly released book which focuses on the Baby Boomer generation, breaking many of the stigmas and myths around ageing and encouraging

them to wind back the clock and own the later years of their lives. The book provides a wealth of information for Boomers wanting to develop a pathway to a happy and healthy retirement.

It’s also a great resource for family or friends who may be struggling to have the tough conversations necessary with older parents or loved ones. Dr Dwyer wants to empower

John Clarke’s Tinkerings

THIS is the story of the actor and humorist’s life including the fan letter he sent to All Black Terry Lineen when he was ten, a golf instruction manual unlike any other, Anna Karenina in forty-three

words, and the moving essays he wrote after the deaths of his parents.

Tinkering is full of surprises, and includes all kinds of puzzles and propositions. Each one has different rules but

Boomers to own every stage of their later years, encouraging them to spend the kid’s inheritance and to “plan early for the end”. It pulls back the curtain on all the taboo topics such as sex, dementia, incontinence and death. In conjunction with the launch of this book, Dr Drew is embarking on a series of laugh-out-loud, adults only shows. Details go to www.dr-drew.com.

together they reveal the different facets of John Clarke’s comic genius.

Tinkering also includes previously unpublished material including .

Text Publishing, RRP $34.99.

CLAIRE Thorne has until Christmas Eve to turn around what may be a complete disaster for her friend. She never expected to be heading home for Christmas in Bindallarah, the small country town she left behind 13 years ago and spends every day trying to forget. But then again she never expected fate to bring Scotty, her oldest friend and first love back into her life. Or for Scotty to tell her that he’s about to get married. And will she be brave enough to question her own heart and the choices she’s made along the way?

Penguin Random House, RRP $32.99.

Seniors 21

It could be The Place WHETHER it’s euphoria or serenity, awe or enlightenment, Lonely Planet’s The Place To Be hardback presents hundreds of places around the world to experience a particular emotion.

Each of the 12 chapters explores a single feeling, with destinations ranging from wild and natural spaces, to modern and ancient cities.

Plus, the travel writers explain when to go and how to get there.

With 20 places and experiences for each emotion and state of mind, The Place to Be features 240 travel destinations around the world.

Lonely Planet, RRP $39.99.

Murder Collection SETTLE in for a great Christmas with this book of murder mysteries to entertain you during the coming summer month.

On Christmas Eve, while the world sleeps, snow falls gently from the sky, presents await under the tree ... and murder is afoot. In this collection of ten classic murder mysteries from the best crime writers in history, death and mayhem takes many festive forms, from the inventive to the unexpected. Join authors Ian Rankin, Ellie Peters, John Dickson Carr, Val McDermid, Margery Allingham and more, as they take us from a Santa Claus with a grudge to missing diamonds spirited away by a mysterious visitor. Allen & Unwin, RRP$19.99.

Maclean author makes mini-series inspiration Yvonne Gardiner

THE storyline for the biggest TV mini-series to be filmed in Australia was born in the mind of a Clarence Valley author.

Peter Watt, of Maclean, is better known overseas where his books are sold – like Germany, England, the Czech Republic – than in Australia. He says 80 per cent of his readers are women.

“I do have a strong following of readers,” he said.

“A few times I’ve hit the bestseller list in Australia.

“The Americans picked up my book for a TV mini-series.

“It’ll be filmed in Australia and seen internationally.

“The title of the mini-series is Dark Frontier.”

Peter said this is the first time his work has been picked up for television but, as an author, he doesn’t expect to have any input into the production.

His latest book, From the Stars Above, the 12th and last instalment in the Frontier series, came out in November, 18 years after Peter’s first book was published.

The series focuses on the hostility between the Duffy and Macintosh dynasties.

“Most of the readers started with the first one,” Peter said.

“The books take you overseas in the 1880s.

“There was so much that had never been written about.

“The knowledge about Australia in the rest of the world is pretty slim.

“I write about the unknown part of our history.”

Peter has had six other books published, including three as part of the Papua series.

At 68 years of age, he devotes half of the year to his writing, and the rest of the year as a volunteer firefighter with the Rural Fire Service.

Some days, he’s writing

The book cover for From the Stars Above.

INSPIRING: Peter Watt divides his time between writing best-sellers and fighting bushfires.

in the morning, and fighting bushfires in the afternoon.

A cause dear to his heart is to see Australian volunteers helped with an organisation similar to the Legacy network that looks after the families of police officers and military.

In addition to writing historical thrillers that have sold more than half a million copies in Australia and New Zealand alone over the past 15 years, Peter has also spent time

as a soldier, private investigator, police sergeant, adviser to the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, prawn trawler deckhand, builder’s labourer, ambulance emergency driver, pipe layer and real estate salesman.

He has lived and worked with Aborigines, Islanders, Vietnamese and Papua New Guineans and speaks, reads and writes Vietnamese and Pidgin.

From the Stars Above For a hundred years they have never forgiven, never forgotten.

Now, the war between the Duffy and Macintosh dynasties will be brought to its stunning conclusion.

Private Patrick Duffy was forced to flee Malaya as a child, and left orphaned when his mother died in Changi prison.

Now, returning to fight a fearless enemy, he must confront the ghosts of his past if he is to find any

hope for the future.

Michael Macintosh is forging his own path to escape his mother’s obsessive control.

Sailor, soldier and mercenary, he will soon face war again, in the brutal jungles of Vietnam.

Sarah Macintosh ruthlessly crushes anyone who gets in her way, and has vowed to destroy her sister-in-law, Jessica Duffy-Macintosh.

Macmillan Australia, RRP $29.99.

22 Seniors Northern NSW

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, December 18, 2017

Let’s save

Go on treat yourself

THE Be a Life Saver appeal raises critical funds to support Surf Life Saving.

■ Surf Life Saving Australia is a community cause in need of public support.

■ SLSA needs your donations to help keep our beaches safe.

■ You don’t have to be a life saver to save a life – donations play a critical role in keeping patrols operating across the country.

■ It costs an average of $86,000 to put a patrol on the beach each season.

■ 1.35 million hours are volunteered by surf lifesavers each year on patrols across our beaches nationwide.

■ Surf Life Saving services* performed over 10,000 rescues and nearly four million preventative actions last season, that’s 30 rescues a day and over 900 preventative actions every hour.

■ Australia has more than 11,500 beaches dispersed along

❝

You don’t have to be a life saver to save a life 36,000 kilometres of coastline.

■ Donate today and Be a Life Saver. Go to bealifesaver.com.au. *Total figures pertain to all Surf Life Saving services and includes front line surf lifesavers, support services and lifeguards.

Get your grandkids into lifesaving Targeted at young children between the ages of five to 14 years, nippers is a fun and safe way to introduce the lifesavers of tomorrow to the ocean environment.

Nippers is: ■ A great way to meet new friends.

■ Learn skills for life.

■ Stay fit and healthy.

■ Fun for the whole family with parents encouraged to get involved.

IT’S that time of year again, it sure does come around fast. You may be home alone this Christmas or your family may have gone on holidays and it can be very lonely for those left home.

So I thought it might be nice to have a Christmas lunch menu for 1 or 2 people. This way you can be a bit more extravagant if you don’t have feed a whole table of people.

You can start off with smoked salmon blinis then a lovely seafood platter.

Why not buy a ½ a

DELISH: A lovely start to lunch are these salmon blinis.

the trimmings or make a special Eton mess with meringue, ice-cream with mango.

Go on, treat yourself it’s Christmas.

SMOKED SALMON BLINI’S

You will need ■ A few slices of smoked salmon ■ Blinis (these are mini

pikelets, don’t make them too sweet if you make your own) ■ Creme fraiche ■ A little bit of dill or finely sliced chives Spread creme fraiche on pikelets, place smoked salmon on top, sprinkle a bit of dill or chives and the’re done. Serve with a nice glass of bubbly.

For more recipes go to www.seniorsnews.com.au

It’s time to shop with app-titude BE THRIFTY AND THRIVE NICKY NORMAN DOWNLOAD a free shopping app to your iPhone or android so you can sit back and shop while enjoying a coffee or early Christmas cocktail.

Here are just some of the popular apps to help with your gift shopping and avoid the long checkout queues.

■ Amazon Mobile THE app syncs with the website, so your shopping and wish lists are

transferred automatically.

The best part? Take a picture of a product with your phone’s camera and the nifty Amazon remembers feature will identify that product and find it online.

■ Groupon THIS shopping app is lots of fun to use and can save you a bunch of money.

Groupon uses group purchasing to help users get a price break on everything from teeth whitening to helicopter tours. Daily local deals consist of restaurants, beauty, travel, ticket vouchers, shopping vouchers, hotels, and a whole lot more, in cities

SHOP EASY: Most apps now are a mobile version of your desired store and it's just as easy to use as the website itself.

across the world.

■ Gilt SAVE up to 70% off designer brands. Shop easily by brand or category. The app also offers top deals to exclusive experiences in your city.

■ Ozsale

OZSALE is a leading members-only online shopping club offering savings of up to 80% off. A virtual doorway to designer fashion, every day hosting sales for the World’s top fashion brands and accessories, beauty and homewares.

Join Us Online Get online to find your news, your way.

Visit us at seniorsnews.com.au

6729615ag

Donate today and Be a Life Saver

HOME COOKING CHRISTINE PERKIN

dozen oysters, ½ kilo of prawns, a Moreton Bay bug (cut it in half) a piece of hot smoked salmon or smoked salmon, scallops, crab and have a seafood feast. Don’t forget a nice tossed salad, some beautiful cheese, mango and strawberries and fresh bread.

Take your time and enjoy. You will also need a nice bottle of bubbly or chilled sauvignon blanc or a few beers, which go beautifully with seafood.

If you’re not a fan of seafood make a platter with cold chicken and sliced roast beef or pork with salad, mango and bread. This is also a nice meal.

A far as dessert goes, buy a small plum pudding from the supermarket or local market and have all

Puzzles

Monday, December 18, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au 1

2

3

4

5

6

15

16

Across 7 The Australian wattle tree is of which genus? (6) 8 What decorative alloy of copper, zinc and tin gets its name from French for “powdered gold”? (6) 10 What is the art of Japanese flower arrangement?

(7) 11 The Spanish liqueur Licor de Melocotón is flavoured with what fruit? (5) 12 Malay for “rushing in a frenzy” gave us what word? (4) 13 What bird is the emblem of Garuda Indonesia airline? (6) 17 Which stringed instrument is tuned an octave above the cello? (5) 18 Enjoyed for over 4000 years, what is the oldest type of puzzle? (4) 22 What is the administrative capital of Bolivia? (2,3) 23 As cats are feline, what are foxes? (7) 24 What is a sound repeated to aid concentration in meditation? (6) 25 Who (James ____) upset Princess Diana by revealing details of their relationship? (6)

8

7 9 10

11

12

13 14 17

18

20

19

21

22

23

24

25

SUDOKU

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

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8 9

10

Down 1 Who was Muhammad’s favourite daughter? (7) 2 What seasoned red pork sausage is sold ready to eat? (7) 3 According to the Bible, Moses received the Ten Command- ments on which mount? (5) 4 What is the capital of Libya? (7) 5 What type of tooth is used mainly for grinding? (5) 6 Who (Sir Vivian ___) led the Antarctic expedition that included Sir Edmund Hillary? (5) 9 The 1854 charge of the Light Brigade was part of which battle in the Crimea? (9) 14 What part of a bird’s stomach contains small stones for grinding food? (7) 15 Which ocean is the world’s largest? (7) 16 What, in mph, is the speed limit on most motorways in Britain? (7) 19 Which colonel was created by cartoonist Sir David Low? (5) 20 To what part of a book are the pages attached?

(5) 21 What is a young eel? (5)

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.

12

21

GK CROSSWORD

F E N D S

Across: 1. Grew 3. Censured 9. Abscond 10. Owner 11. Deliberately 13. Unties 15. Bitter 17. Easy on the eye 20. Bingo 21. Yielded 22. Sidekick 23. Edgy.

Down: 1. Grandeur 2. Easel 4. Endure 5. Short-sighted 6. Ringlet 7. Dare 8. Gobbledygook 12. Friendly 14. Trained 16. In sync 18. Ended 19. Ebbs.

ALPHAGRAMS: GLOBE, HUSTLE, IMPARTS, JAUNDICE, KEYBOARDS.

BLACKOUT

QUICK CROSSWORD

Solution opposite

F R E A K

Find a finished crossword by deleting one of the two letters in each divided square.

A T T I C

How many words of four letters or more can you make? Each letter must be used only once and all words must contain the centre letter. There is at least one nine-letter word.

No words starting with a capital are allowed, no plurals ending in s unless the word is also a verb.

TODAY: Good 14 Very Good 20 Excellent 24+

DOUBLE CROSS

SUDOKU

5x5

T I A R A

M S

Down 1. Splendour (8) 2. Artist’s frame (5) 4. Suffer patiently (6) 5. Lacking imagination (5-7) 6. Curl (7) 7. Challenge (4) 8. Unintelligible language (12) 12. Well-disposed (8) 14. Taught (7) 16. Occurring in harmony (2,4) 18. Finished (5) 19. Recedes (4)

Across: 7 Acacia, 8 Ormolu, 10 Ikebana, 11 Peach, 12 Amok, 13 Eagle, 17 Viola, 18 Maze, 22 La Paz, 23 Vulpine, 24 Mantra, 25 Hewitt.

Down: 1 Fatimah, 2 Saveloy, 3 Sinai, 4 Tripoli, 5 Molar, 6 Fuchs, 9 Balaklava, 14 Gizzard, 15 Pacific, 16 Seventy, 19 Blimp, 20 Spine, 21 Elver.

503

23

WORD GO ROUND

D

S

SOLUTIONS

WORD GO ROUND

I A

C

adit admit admits aids amid amidst arid dais dams dart darts data dims dirt disarm dram drama DRAMATIST madras maid midst raid raids rids said sard staid triad

R T

BOGLE SLEUTH ARMPITS DNA JUICE BORED YAKS

Note: more than one solution may be possible.

22

Across 1. Matured (4) 3. Formally reprimanded (8) 9. Escape (7) 10. Proprietor (5) 11. Intentionally (12) 13. Loosens (6) 15. Acerbic (6) 17. Pleasant to see (4,2,3,3) 20. Number game (5) 21. Gave up (7) 22. Henchman (4-4) 23. Tense, nervous (4)

N A

S

18

19 20

T R

17

F R

O

15 16

A T

A I

11

14

23/12

5x5

S

13

Seniors 23

S L O T S

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

Northern NSW

D P N O H P L A N H W S H I T

S H I P S H A P E W A C O R N

C I W I A E A P E B J E H R J

D A T A B A S E T L I N E A R

S L X T T S G A I A X A Z D H

P I S E R A A S P H E R O I D

G D G F U N E E E Y R I D A X

M E M E N T O Q Y F R O N T S

O S E Q A U E O M U Y A M E L

B I C U S P I D F L A T H U O

A C H A X E I D U L O O F S D

O C U L A R I B A B U S H K A

T A U I U K M A A A F S C A M

G N A S H D F L U C T U A T E

X T A E Z T O L W K Q P Q E N

BLACKOUT

Work out which squares need to be deleted to reveal a completed crossword.

Solution opposite

DOUBLE CROSS

S D P H I A L I T S O P I A T E S B R P H E A S A A S A P P E A S E P B L A H A I E S C E N A R O E O I R R A D I N R D

M D E M E N N T O E Y F R I O N A T S

B O S I C C A C U Q U A L I S A P E R K I O D D B A A U L L B A A U T O S S H H S K A A E

F L U C T U A T E

E P K L

G N T A S E H

24 Seniors Northern NSW

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, December 18, 2017