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Want to enjoy the festive season twice this year? Spend a week on Norfolk Island with its stunning scenery, sandy beaches and jagged cliffs. There is so much to see and do – and all at your own pace. We’ve included some great accommodation options, a hire car so you can explore, some fabulous tours that you won’t want to miss, plus plenty more to do on the Island. Enjoy a festive delicious Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings, fun trivia and Carols at Paradise Hotel & Resort. Chase away those winter blues and have some fun. Call us now to secure your accommodation.

Join Fortunato Isgro or Lindsay (Waddo) Waddington for a fantastic week on Norfolk Island of Songs and laughter! A Little Bit Country on Norfolk Island 2020 sees a great line-up of performers taking to the stage. Graeme Hugo, Fortunato Isgro, Wayne Horsburgh and Lindsay (Waddo) Waddington will all perform at 3 big shows during the week. Plus plenty of time for you to enjoy beautiful Norfolk Island with its colourful history, lush greenery, stunning scenery and friendly locals. Enjoy delicious cuisine, tours, time to shop and explore and plenty of laughs along the way. Call us for more information!

Join us when we visit the bi-annual world premier tropical garden and flower show - the 2020 Singapore Garden Festival. The festival showcases colourful and exciting garden designs with exquisite floral displays from over 50 designers and 19 countries. During the tour you’ll also visit the Botanic Gardens, National Orchid Gardens, have breakfast at the zoo, high tea at the iconic Raffles Hotel, visit the National Museum plus experience the exciting sights and sounds of Sentosa Island. Leisure time to explore further afield, shop ‘til you drop or lay by the pool. We’d love to have you with us when we travel to this beautiful multi-cultural city and its fabulous gardens. Space is limited.

You are invited to join entertainer Fortunato on his muchanticipated ‘Bella Italia’ tour, where you will experience 22 days of incredible history, culture, food and scenic landscapes within central and southern Italy all whilst enjoying wonderful entertainment from your renowned host. Fortunato is particularly excited to also take you to Sicily and the Aeolian Islands where his family originates, to bring you an authentic experience that you will never forget. You don’t want to miss out on this stress-free holiday with Fortunato and his family. Contact us for more fabulous details.

You are invited to join entertainer Graeme and Lynne Hugo, for a trip of a lifetime to the beautiful Cook Islands. Experience the authentic colourful local culture, swim in crystal clear tropical waters, enjoy delicious local cuisine, informative and scenic tours. Located just 6 hours from Australia, we hope you can join us on this trip to paradise. Please call us to secure your place or for more details.

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WELCOME

FEBRUARY, 2020//

INDEX 4 8-9 10 11 13 25 32 35

Ready for a new ride?

Cover Story – Reg Richardson Feature - War Brides What’s On Community Notes NSW Seniors Festival Wanderlust Finance Puzzles

Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor Greetings friends. If you are looking for some good news this month, then look no further, you have found it. The first thing to note is that it’s NSW Seniors Festival Week. This is an event organised by fellow seniors to share information and entertainment relevant to our demographic. Inside you will find our festival feature. Together with this, Seniors News journalist Tracey Johnstone has gone to town to locate and write some uplifting and interesting stories. For instance, our cover personality Reg Richardson. This is not a name that usually makes the headlines, but here he is sharing the fruits of his own success with those in need and successfully encouraging his friends to do the same. He has certainly made big things happen and Australia is a better place

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CONTACT US General Manager Geoff Crockett – 07 5430 1006 geoff.crockett@news.com.au Editor Gail Forrer – 07 5435 3203 gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Executive Sue Germany 02 6650 2922 and sue.germany@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Online Get your news online at www.seniorsnews.com.au Advertising, editorial and distribution enquiries Phone: 1300 880 265 or (07) 5435 3200 Email: advertising@seniorsnewspaper.com.au or editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Location: 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore 4558 Website: www.seniorsnews.com.au Subscriptions Only $39.90 for one year (12 editions) including GST and postage anywhere in Australia. Please call our circulations services on 1300 361604 and quote “Brisbane Seniors Newspaper”. The Seniors Newspaper is published monthly and distributed free in southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales. The Seniors newspaper stable includes Toowoomba, Wide Bay, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Northern NSW, Coffs and Clarence and Central Coast publications. Published by News Corp Australia. Printed by News Corp Australia, Yandina. Opinions expressed by contributors to Seniors Newspapers are not necessarily those of the editor or the owner/publisher and publication of advertisements implies no endorsement by the owner/ publisher.

for it. This month our doublepage spread features war brides. Tracey Johnstone spoke to 96-year-old Jackie McLaughlin, who was one of the 70,000 women who left Britain in the 1940s bound for Canada or Australia. Today, Jackie is looking for any of the women left or their families, to chat about their life journey. We also give you a heads-up with a story on the changing nature of public transport. A new company is stepping into Australia with a transport system that intends to offer a flexible and practical alternative to our traditional type of transport. Enjoy the read.

Report shows just how fit and fab we really are!

Gallery move puts new artists in residency frame outcomes of the residency will be a solo exhibition at the gallery. Gallery director Susi Muddiman (OAM) said the partnership was inspired by Margaret Olley, who was a National Art School alumnus. “Olley graduated from the prestigious art school, known then as East Sydney Technical College, in 1945, and went on to have her first solo exhibition in 1948,” Ms Muddiman said. “Residencies and solo

exhibitions are significant milestones for any artist. By partnering with the National Art School, the gallery will play a pivotal role in these milestones for the best emerging artists in NSW. “We wanted to implement a dynamic program that would celebrate Olley’s legacy, her dedication to painting and her generous mentoring of emerging artists. We are thrilled to connect audiences to new work and new

artists’’. Interested NAS MFA graduates must apply and applications are assessed by representatives from each partner organisation. The first recipient of this initiative is Jacqueline Hennessy. “Being awarded the residency at the Nancy Fairfax Artist-in-Residence Studio was a wonderful surprise and a hugely exciting way to conclude my studies at the National Art School,” Ms Hennessy said.

YOUNG TALENT: The Gaze II 2018, by residency recipient Jacqueline Hennessy. Picture: Contributed

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THE Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre in Murwillumbah has announced an exciting new partnership with the National Art School in Sydney. Each year, this partnership awards a graduate of the National Art School, Masters of Fine Art (MFA) the opportunity to undertake a residency in the Tweed Regional Gallery’s Nancy Fairfax Artist-inresidence Studio. One of the

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Medical marvel honoured Leader in obstetrics named as Senior Australian of the Year for work in curbing pre-term births MINISTER for Aged Care and Senior Australians Richard Colbeck has paid tribute to the 2020 Senior Australian of the Year. Professor John Newnham (AM), of Western Australia, was honoured by Prime Minister Scott Morrison during a ceremony at the National Arboretum in Canberra. The award is presented to an Australian over 65 years of age who continues to achieve and contribute to the community. Prof Newnham is recognised as a world authority in preventing preterm birth. He has been described as “an intellectual leader of modern obstetrics who has changed the practice of medicine and the lives of women and infants”. “Prof Newnham’s ongoing achievements serve as an

example to all Australians,” Mr Colbeck said. “Senior Australians have an incredible amount to offer the rest of the community – their intellect, their capacity for hard work and their experience. “I would like to pay tribute to Prof Newnham and to the thousands of senior Australians who play crucial roles across the nation in professional, volunteer and community roles. “This award is a reflection of our national appreciation, admiration and thanks for your efforts.” The Australian Government has been a proud sponsor of the Senior Australian of the Year Award for more than 10 years. Mr Colbeck also congratulated each of the state and territory finalists for their endeavours across a

range of sectors in our community. “Celebrating the accomplishments of our seniors is important not only to thank them for their work but to remind all Australians that age is just a number, not an indicator of ability,” he said. Other Senior Australian of the Year finalists this year included: • New South Wales – founder of OzGREEN, Sue Lennox from NSW, teaches people to become “citizen scientists’’ and to take action to improve the health of the waterways. • South Australia – 90year-old Sylvia McMillan has been an unstoppable community volunteer for more than 50 years after becoming treasurer of her local Legacy club in the late 1960s. • Queensland – Peter

RECOGNITION: Prime Minister Scott Morrison with 2020 Senior Australian of the Year, Professor John Newnham. Picture: AAP Image/Mick Tsikas

Dornan (AM) helps men with prostate cancer share experiences and seek support. He designed a program to treat

incontinence after prostate cancer treatment. • Victoria – Dr Raymond Sheuy (APM), a former Victorian police officer and

assistant commissioner for traffic and operations, is a consultant on road safety and operational safety in Australia and worldwide.

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Pockets are as deep as Reg Richardson’s big heart TRACEY JOHNSTONE

WHEN it comes to choosing a philanthropic project, Reg Richardson (AM) looks to his “emotional quotient” to gauge what is the right one to support. It’s that instinct for what will and what won’t work that has led the 80-year-old to drive the establishment of outstanding organisations across a wide spectrum from indigenous health and melanoma research to the arts. Putting his hand in his pocket is his inclination. It’s been an approach he’s taken since his early business days. He was reared in what he describes as modest circumstances, growing up in Sydney’s Darlinghurst with his grandmother. “I have seen social issues as a pretty personal thing,” he said. “If you are competent enough to do something about it, I believe you should, and do in my case.” His business background was centred on service industries where “you deliver a service, whatever it happens to be, efficiently, on time and at the lowest cost possible”. Since retiring, Reg has turned his hand to finding financial answers to vexing projects, coaxing millions of dollars from rich Australians. “I am good at asking people for money, particularly if they are wealthy,” he said. “As you go through life you do happen to know people who surprisingly have made a fair bit of money and unsurprisingly are quite willing to give some away.”

Take, for example, Greg and Kay Poche. All right, there is the exception here: Greg is Reg’s oldest and closest friend. Greg sold Star Track Express for $750 million. “I asked him what he was going to do with all that,” Reg said. “He said he was going to give a lot of it away. He also replied, ‘I have seen what you have done over the years, so I am going to get you to do it’.” With Greg suffering several stokes that inhibited his walking and talking, the task of finding suitable projects was handed over to Reg. A casual introduction by a mate to melanoma surgeon Associate Professor John Stretch, who was eagerly seeking funding for melanoma research, led Reg to ask Greg for $10 million. “He just said ‘Yep’ like that, so I thought, ‘I can get more out of him’,” Reg said. Three months later he went back to Greg with a proposal for $30 million to build a centre for melanoma specialists. “Greg provided the dough, I provided the energy to get it all going because that’s who I am, and John provided the medical advice,” Reg said. The result: 10 years down the track and $40 million later, Reg has retired as board chairman for Melanoma Institute of Australia and the Mater Hospital owns the asset, used for critical worldrecognised melanoma research and treatment. “It’s there forever and one day there will be a cure for melanoma,” he said. Not one to rest on his laurels,

and hasn’t stopped growing. “One was Tracey Moffatt, an Aboriginal photographer. I have the most of any person in the world, I am told.” By the time Sydney’s Museum of Contemporary Art opened, Reg was recognised as an art collector and was asked to be the president of its fundraising foundation. “I don’t do the openings now,” he said. “I see every show but go privately.”

PASSION PROJECTS: Reg Richardson at home with his art and rugby colours.

Reg went back to Greg and suggested they have a “crack at indigenous health”. “I said (to Greg), ‘If we were Aboriginal, we’d be dead’.” Greg agreed that was a compelling reason. Through Reg, five major universities each received $10 million, which led to the establishment of the Poche Indigenous Health Network. Its focus is on closing the gap in life expectancy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders through healthy teeth, hearts and children. “I told each university the money had to be invested at a rate of 9 per cent (the rates were 15 per cent at the time) in perpetuity and

the capital to remain untouched for them to invest wisely so that they increased the $10 million to a higher figure. “In most cases it’s sitting at around 12 and they live on the $900,000 (interest) annually, then go out to get more dough.” His passion runs deep Reg’s attachment to the arts started when he was 28. An artist friend, who ultimately became an art critic for a Sydney newspaper, opened Reg’s eyes to this world. Reg attended many art openings and read all his friend had to write. “I then started to buy my own works, including eight of my friend’s,” Reg said. From there his collection grew

Healthy mind and body Keeping up with his philanthropic responsibilities means also keeping fit. The trim Reg walks every day as fast he can, but on the flat. The hills around his Mosman home are just too hard. He says playing golf is definitely out, but spending his free time advising the local Mosman Art Gallery is in. “I would like to do smaller things that make a bigger impact,” he said. The rewards for Reg are difficult to articulate. The straight-talking, switched-on man with a raucous laugh draws breath when asked what continues to drive him. Like Greg, the big-hearted man is quietly modest about his contributions. Red and green forever Reg might not have sporting talent, but that hasn’t stopped him from following the South Sydney Rabbitohs. Red-and-green glasses, rabbits on the side table, a red-and-green miniature scarf around the neck of a favourite sculpture. He wears his passion on his sleeve. “I am passionate about whatever I do,” Reg said.

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Help hatchlings survive SEA turtle hatchlings are beginning to emerge from their nests across the Tweed and a free information session for the community will help ensure as many hatchlings make it to the ocean as possible. After a great community response to the turtle information session held in December 2019, staff from the NSW TurtleWatch Program are returning to update the community about the current sea turtle nesting season. Sea turtle hatchlings begin to emerge on local beaches anytime in January and continue through until May. NSW TurtleWatch Project Officer Holly West said hatchlings could be affected by light pollution, marine debris, predators and coastal erosion. “Locals can help by keeping our beaches clear of marine debris that can

NEW LIFE: Green turtle hatchlings are starting to venture out from their nests across the Tweed.

easily entangle hatchlings or that they may later eat when they enter the ocean,” Ms West said. “It is estimated that only one out of 1000 hatchlings

survive to reach maturity, so every hatchling we can assist into the ocean can help to make a difference,” she said. The community

information session is on Saturday, February 15, from 10am-12pm (NSW time). It will be held at Kingscliff Community Hall, 81 Marine Parade, Kingscliff.

Picture: Adam Head

For more information about the TurtleWatch program, email turtlewatchnsw@gmail .com, or visit seabirdrescue .org.au.

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Arrival of Qantas to lift region THE transit hub of Northern Rivers, Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, has received a massive boost with the announcement that Qantas will start daily services to and from Sydney. Qantas joins the stable of airlines operating out of the airport, including Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Rex Airlines and FlyPelican. The airport is the third busiest in NSW, behind Sydney and Newcastle. Ballina Byron Gateway Airport manager Paul Tsikleas says the region was set to benefit greatly having Qantas on board. “The convenience of being able to connect daily with Sydney directly from our expanding region is something that a lot of people have wanted for a long time,’’ Mr Tsikleas said. From March 29, flights to Sydney will take off in the morning and return in the evening, making the service highly desirable for business travellers but also appealing to the tourism market. For a limited time, Qantas is offering one-way flights for $115 for travel from March 29 to October 25.

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FEATURE

FEBRUARY, 2020//

War bride reaches out to others

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LOOKING BACK: Jackie McLaughlin was a war bride who came to Australia from England in 1946. Picture: Tracey Johnstone

TRACEY JOHNSTONE JACKIE McLaughlin wonders if there are still women like her who came to Australia by ship at the end of World War II. They were the war brides. About 70,000 of these women left Britain in the 1940s bound for Canada or America. Some of them came to Australia. “I never kept in contact with any of them,” Jackie says sadly. But now, at age 96, and as she peruses the regular Veteran Affairs magazine, Jackie has started to wonder if there are any of those women left, or their family members, who she can chat with about their life journey. The spritely Englishwoman lives in the forest just west of Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. She’s buried her husband of 64 years and her only child, but Jackie still has the company of her second husband, 80-yearold Colin. The memories of her time during World War II and how she came to live in Australia are still vivid and heart-wrenching. It was a sheet wiped clean, Jackie declares, when she landed in Australia with no idea nor worry of what the future held. Christened Daphne, she ran away from her country home in Surrey and travelled solo to London to sign up for the air force at age 17 and a half. The war had started two years before. She had listened to her brother talk about his “exciting” time in the air force as the bored young lady reflected on her future. “It was either go into one of the forces or the land army or be called up for a munitions factory, and I wasn’t an indoor girl. “That’s the sole reason I signed up and I am so glad I did.” Her mother threw he hands up in horror, but her father said, ‘You really want to do this, don’t you?’. I said, ‘Yes I do’,” Jackie says. “He then said, ‘This will be the making you, my girl’. “I didn’t live up to the ladylike name of Daphne at all.” After the first week in training camp, her fellow trainees decided they needed to find a

Jackie McLaughlin when she entered the air force at age 18. Picture: Contributed

less ladylike name for the tomboy. “They came up with Jackie, and it stuck.” Unfortunately, Jackie says, she spent most of the war working in an office. It took five months from first setting eyes on each other after an “inane” meeting outside the local pub at Bridlington in Yorkshire in 1944 to walking down the aisle for Jackie with her first husband, Doug, an Australian air force navigator and bomb-aimer. She was 20 and he was 21. Soon after the war ended, Doug returned to Australia while Jackie stayed in England until May 1946. She then joined 360 English women and children on board the former hospital ship Atlantis.

Some of the women had been visiting England when the war broke out, others had married Australian personnel. “One or two of them were going for the trip only and they weren’t going to stay here, even though they were married to an Australian,” Jackie recalls. The ship first stopped in Fremantle before docking in Melbourne on June 29. From there she travelled by train to Sydney and on to Brisbane, where Doug was waiting to start their life together in the city. Jackie remembers on the voyage meeting Una and her two-year-old son. Una hadn’t heard from her husband for quite some time. When they got to Sydney, Jackie accompanied Una to the

army office where she was informed the address the husband had provided to the army was a vacant block. Una and her son, left with nothing to live on in Sydney, soon stowed away in a lifeboat on a ship heading for England. They were discovered after only a few days and after she shared her story, the passengers gathered enough money to pay their fare. Jackie’s other poignant memory of the voyage to Australia is of a very young boy who became sick and died during the voyage. “We were two or three days out from Fremantle and the funeral came,” Jackie says. “They stopped the boat and we all stood on the deck.”

As the swaddled body was lowered over the side, his mother was in shock. “She was torn to pieces and said as soon as she hit land she would go straight back to Australia as her husband will say she had killed her little boy. “They got in touch with her husband (in Sydney) and they flew him to Perth and he was on the dock at Fremantle. “He came on board. She was shell-shocked, not knowing what to say or do. He just walked up and put his arms around her.” She looks back now with some sadness, but also a lot of joy of the life she came to live in Australia. Before she left England, Jackie bumped into an old

school friend who was to marry an Australian from Goondiwindi. The fare was being paid for by the Australian government as long as she was married within three months. Both were excited they would be living near each other. “Just imagine, in England you walk from this place to that,” Jackie says. The two girls looked at a map of Queensland and got the tape measure out to work out the distance between Brisbane and Goondiwindi. “We thought, ‘That’s not that far away, we can have afternoon tea together’,” Jackie adds with peals of laughter. Jackie’s not been back to England: “It’s too cold,” she says. SENE01Z01MA - V1

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FEATURE

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Jackie McLaughlin with Cathy Meyer from Caloundra Family History Group and (above) an image of the ship Atlantis on which Jackie travelled to Australia. Picture: Tracey Johnstone

Logistical woes kept tide of women at bay after free passage rule IN 1941 the Australian government gave free passage to wives, widows and children of Australian servicemen to come to Australia during World War II. However, according to the Australian War Memorial, the risks involved in travelling during the war meant most women waited until 1944 or later to leave their homeland. The desire for passage to Australia at the end of the war resulted in logistical problems and it was sometimes years before a berth on a ship became available. Converted troopships, V1 - SENE01Z01MA

ordinary passenger ships and even cargo ships were used to transport women and children to Australia. Fiancees were disadvantaged as priority for travel was given to married women. Before 1946, transport via ship was not available from Western Australia to the eastern states for war brides. Mothers, babies and children had to travel via the train that crossed between Perth and Melbourne, earning the train the nickname “the Perth Perambulator”. Representatives of the

Australian Red Cross travelled on the train to support the mothers. At various stops along the way, local residents provided mothers and babies with meals and refreshments, sometimes in their own homes. World War I Marriages More than 13,000 Australian soldiers married while serving overseas during World War I. After the war, 5626 members of the Australian Imperial Force returned to Australia with English brides. Many of these couples met

while the soldiers were hospitalised in England. Australians also had opportunities to meet British, French and Belgian women in France while in billets or medical facilities, during leave, or even in the camps. Australian soldiers were popular with British girls, although not everyone approved of liaisons. Reports of bigamy led to pressure for Australian headquarters to provide potential marriage candidates with certificates stating that men were not already married. Weddings usually had to be

planned around leave and were often rushed and lacked the usual lengthy engagement. This haste was compounded in 1919 when the Australian government made an offer of free passage to wives of Australian soldiers whose marriages occurred before September 1, 1919. Rationing of food, clothing and petrol in the United Kingdom were additional constraints. Planning a traditional wedding required considerable resourcefulness. During the early part of the war, a serviceman could only take his bride home to

Australia if he paid for the journey. The large number of passengers resulting from the offer of free passage in 1919 caused enormous logistical problems and resulted in “bride ships” sailing to Australia in 1919 and 1920. Soldiers usually accompanied their wives and children, although men and women were housed separately on the ships. As there had been a dearth of “marriageable’’ men in Australia during the war years, overseas war brides were not always welcomed on arrival.

WHAT'S ON

TWEED REGIONAL GALLERY DISPLAYS GALLERY DownTown, the annex of the Tweed Regional Gallery, will present two new solo exhibitions by regional artists. Murwillumbah-based Robyn Elizabeth will exhibit Inhale, Exhale, Release alongside map of experience by Lismore-based Haley Calderon. Elizabeth has recently returned to her art practice after a period of illness when she merely existed by inhaling and exhaling. For this exhibition, Elizabeth has created a body of work in oil and acrylic using elements of line form and colour to release her stored creative energy. On Saturday, February 15, from 11am-12pm, Calderon will host an artist talk where she will be providing an insight into her exhibition and practice. The two exhibitions run until March 7. Gallery DownTown is in the creative hub of M|Arts Precinct, in the heart of Murwillumbah – upstairs at the corner of Proudfoot Lane and Brisbane St. Phone 0426 230 193 for more information.

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EDUCATING RITA LISMORE Theatre Company is excited to announce that Educating Rita will open its 2020 season. Since its stage debut in a Royal Shakespeare Company production in June 1980, Educating Rita has become a firm favourite with audiences. In addition to a highly successful run in London’s West End, the play by Willy Russell has been regularly performed by professional and amateur companies around the world. It was voted Best Comedy of the Year in 1980, and in 1983 was rated the fourth most popular play on the British stage – and the list included Shakespeare. The 1983 film version starring Michael Caine and Julie Walters was greeted with universal acclaim. The Lismore Theatre production, the first show celebrating the company’s 50th year, will be directed by David Addenbrooke, who directed Hedda Gabler for LTC in 2017. This production will star LTC regulars Elyse Knowles as Rita and Gray Wilson as Frank. Educating Rita will open on Friday, March 20,

for seven performances over two weekends. This will be a theatre experience not to be missed. To book go to lismoretheatrecompany.org .au.

BALLINA COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB INC COME along on the first Sunday of the month from February to December at the Ballina RSL Club, Grant Street, Ballina. Start 10.45am until 5pm. Next few dates are March 1, April 5 and May 3. We have four local bands alternating each month and a wide range of “walk-up artists’’ who entertain us for the afternoon. Entry is free, though we do have raffles. Phone 02 6681 9500 for more information.

MELBOURNE SKA ORCHESTRA IN MULLUMBIMBY THE beloved Melbourne Ska Orchestra has unveiled its new single, Good Days Bad Days – a showstopper of a track lifted from its most recent album, One Year Of Ska. To celebrate, the epic 25piece band has announced a huge national tour, which will see the musicians hitting

up metropolitan and regional cities across the country throughout the early months of 2020. From 7pm-midnight on Friday, February 28, at the Mullumbimby Civic Memorial Hall, 55 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby. Go to songkick.com/concerts.

SENIORS

What’s on

BYRON BAY BLUESFEST SET in the beautiful hinterland of northern NSW, the Byron Bay Bluesfest is an internationally renowned blues and roots music festival held each year during the Easter long weekend. With more than 200 performances across various stages over five days, the festival showcases music from around the world, and in previous years has boasted the likes of Bob Dylan, Paul Simon and James Brown on the bill. Held on 120 picturesque hectares at Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm, 11km from Byron, Bluesfest is a family-friendly event, with children’s entertainment and a daily kids’ program on offer. On from April 9-13 at 30 Tanner Lane, Tyagarah. See bluesfest.com.au.

ACCLAIMED TALE: LTC’s Educating Rita stars Gray Wilson (Frank) and Elyse Knowles (Rita). Picture: Contributed

GROUP EXERCISE 65s AND OVER Feros Care has a suite of group exercise programs specially designed for over 65s available on the Far North Coast. These programs are government subsidised, and promise to have you feeling healthier, more active and better connected. Each program is run by our experienced physiotherapists and exercise physiologists over a series of weeks. Classes are safe and suitable for people of all levels of mobility and ﬁtness.

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Call 1300 763 583 to register your interest today Visit feroscare.com.au/group-exercise

Aged Care • Disability Support • Technology

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POTTSVILLE FUN CROQUET CLUB HELLO to all aspiring fun croquet players and of course to all our wonderful committed members. Christmas has been and gone and now our new year 2020 is well under way. We invite anyone interested in playing to come along. The cost for a visitor is $5 a session and after three visits we request you become a member for an annual registration fee of $50. Once you are a member the cost is $3 a session. Our courts are situated at the Black Rocks Sports Fields at the end of Overall Drive. Our play days are Tuesday and Thursday from 8.30am. For any further information, phone 0413 335 941. Our club has offered to provide volunteers as we did last year for the Tweed Enduro, which is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, March 6 and 7. We require at least 12 people whom we organise into shifts of up to four hours each. This is a very interesting event and we successfully manage to provide cheerful and knowledgeable support for the contestants. Pat Curtis will be the person to contact to advise if you can volunteer. Pat’s contact number is 0447 934783.

LISMORE OVER 50S LEARNING CENTRE WE OFFER a range of art and exercise classes for matureage people. Most classes are held at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club, 181 High St, Lismore Heights. New members are always welcome. Inquiries with Barbara on 02 6624 2237 or 0401 503 732, or see our Facebook page: “Over 50s Learning Centre Lismore”.

PROBUS CLUBS Banora Point WE MEET on the fourth Monday of each month at South Tweed Sports Club at 10am. We are a mixed club and have interesting speakers, as well as an outing each month. Cost is $5. Our speaker for this month is Patrick Pickett, owner, artistic director and conductor of the Queensland Pops Orchestra. Phone Annette or Ron Finch on 07 5523 4016. Hastings Point/Tweed Coast OUR next meeting will be at Tricare, Tweed Coast Road, on Tuesday, February 18, at 10am. The speaker will be Scott Jones and the subject is a totally natural solution for households to divert everyday food waste away from landfill. Visitors welcome. Inquiries with Jean on 02 6670 4072.

TWEED COAST CFS/ ME/FMS SUPPORT GROUP INC. THE Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Information and Support Group meets on the first Friday of every month at 10.30am (NSW time) at the HACC Community Centre, corner of Heffron Street and Minjungbal Drive, Tweed Heads South. All welcome. For further information, phone Bronwyn on 07 5593 9319.

VIEW CLUBS Coolangatta Tweed OUR first luncheon for 2020 is on Thursday, February 20, with our AGM and will be held at the South Tweed Sports Club, 11am11.30am start. We meet on the third Thursday of the month. All ladies are very welcome to come along and enjoy friendship, interesting

Community notes

PITCHING IN: Pottsville Croquet club held a working bee to dig out, place in cricket pitch soil then top with instant turf in the remaining hoop positions. Picture: Contributed

guest speakers and social outings. Bookings/apologies phone Elaine on 07 5524 4461 on the Monday before our luncheon. We are looking forward to once again staging a memorable celebration of International Women’s Day at the South Tweed Sports Club, Minjungbal Drive, South Tweed Heads, in 2020. This event will be held on Monday, March 9, starting at 10am (DST) for morning tea. The speakers will be: Linda Robertson, a stem cell therapist studying the potential of stem cells for the treatment of incurable neurological diseases; and Natalie Trengrove, a veteran of children’s theatre who has been an actor, director and writer with the Tweed Theatre Company since its inception. There will also be a Learning for Life student with a heartwarming story

to tell of her success under the sponsorship of VIEW clubs of Australia. The function will be compered by Maggie-Anne Leybourne of BAM Promotions. Refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the program and a trading table will be open. Cost is $16 and bookings may be made with secretary Janice on 07 5524 5707 before March 2.

BLUE CARE GRIEF AND LOSS PROGRAM HAVE you experienced the loss of a loved one? Blue Care offers a free structured program of two hours a week over eight weeks within a safe and secure small-group setting. The aim of the program is to provide information on the grieving process, offer practical advice, provide emotional and social support in a group setting and pass

on some effective coping skills. Times and dates for February-March are: Coomera – Tuesdays from 9.30-11.30am (Group 1), February 4 to March 24. Elanora – Mondays from 9.30-11.30am (Group 1), February 3 to March 21. Phone 07 5525 5439.

ROTARY CLUB OF BANORA TWEED WE MEET on the second and fourth Mondays of the month at the South Tweed Sports Club at 6pm for a 6.30pm start. Rotary is a like group who enjoy entertaining guest speakers and worldwide participation in worthy projects. Inquiries with Peter on 0417 188 388.

THE AUSTRALIAN SHAREHOLDERS ASSOCIATION ASA has been representing shareholders and educating

investors for 60 years. Members meet monthly to discuss markets and learn about shares. ASA will hold its February members’ meeting on Tuesday, February 18, at 10am in the Jullum Room at Ballina Surf Life Saving Club, 15 Lighthouse Parade, East Ballina. Visitors welcome. Come along if you would like to learn about Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), what they are, how to invest in them and if they are suitable for SMSFs and investors approaching or in retirement. ETFs are the fastestgrowing investment vehicle for shareholders and it is important to understand them. Contact David on 0439 430 108. We welcome your community news and photographs. Please send them to editor@seniors newspaper.com.au.

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SENIORS

DIY: Could you plan your own funeral? SJONELLE HODGINS

WITH home renovation shows flickering across our screens most weeks, do-ityourself projects are as popular as ever. New kitchens, bathrooms and even weddings are being created in homes across the country each day. But there’s another DIY project just starting to take hold. DIY and at-home funerals are a healthy and empowering way to say goodbye to a loved one, according to End of Life consultant, death doula and funeral director at Sacred Earth Funerals, Mimi Zenzmaier. Mimi said DIY funerals were an option for anyone wanting to return to the simpler, cheaper and age-old tradition of family care after death. “These days people battle with death phobias like never before in history,” she said “The pursuit of youth and beauty is so rife because of our current culture of death denial. “We need to return to fostering relationships with our mortality, a humility that comes from respecting that life is a gift and does not come with any guarantee of longevity.” Mimi said the beauty of a home funeral was time and

space. While death is always devastating, there is some joy in doing it your own way. “A DIY funeral is empowering, healing and transformational for the family providing a final gift of love to their deceased,” she said. “Historically, the dead have been kept in the presence of loved ones for a very significant reason. “We need time and space to adjust to death and when we provide a means for family to have unhindered access to the body, healing occurs.” DIY funerals are just one of the 10 topics that will be covered during a workshop as part of Tweed Seniors Festival this month. The workshop, named 10 Things to Know Before You Go, will be run by Compassionate Communities Northern NSW (CCNNSW) in collaboration with the Groundswell Project. It’s aimed at inviting all residents to start thinking about the realities of death and will feature Mimi as one of its speakers. CCNNSW is a group of volunteers who support end-of-life care through compassion, empathy and practical advice. Group member Bronwyn Hodgins said it was important for all community members to put plans in place for the end of life. She

said there was no need to fear death, but there was a great need to plan for it. “We will all die eventually; however, many without a plan. This leads to increased distress for the dying and their relatives. CCNNSW aims to support and educate our community during dying, death, grief and loss,” she said. Bronwyn said less than 5 per cent of people had a plan for their end of life, but those who did were more comfortable with the concept. “Health care professionals usually die differently because they are well informed and see the benefits of making end-oflife wishes known to others. They tend to have less interventions and die at home,” she said. Bookings are essential for the CCNNSW and The Groundswell Project’s workshop, which will run from 1-4pm on Tuesday, February 18. Call (02) 6670 2435 or email cemeteries@tweed.nsw. gov.au. Compassionate Communities Northern NSW is working on a range of projects, including regular support meetings, threshold choir, walking in nature activities and doula training. For more information visit the Compassionate Communities Northern NSW Facebook page or email

comcommnsw@gmail.com. 10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: 1. Less than 5 per cent of people have a plan for their end of life. 2. 45 per cent of us will die without a will. 3. Of those who know they are dying, only 25 per cent will have spoken to their families about their wishes. 4. 70 per cent of deaths are expected. 5. Doctors die differently. 6. Early palliative care referral means living longer with better life quality. 7. Almost half of us would like to know more about DIY funerals. 8. 60 per cent of Aussies choose cremation. 9. We don’t grieve in stages, and only about a tenth of us need professional support after death. 10. 60 per cent think we don’t discuss death enough.

ADVICE: Mimi Zenzmaier, pictured with ‘Lavender the funeral dog’, will discuss DIY funerals as part of the workshop for Tweed Seniors Festival. Picture: Sjonelle Hodgins

Compassionate Communities Northern NSW will be running a workshop on 10 Things to Know Before You Go. Picture: Contributed

Keeping a close watch out for Tweed’s endangered koala population MOST of the Tweed is still categorised as suffering from intense drought and so koala habitats remain extremely dry and are at high risk of bushfire. Forested wetlands on the Tweed Coast floodplain provide excellent koala habitat as they support two of the primary koala food trees – the swamp mahogany and the forest red gum. However, forested wetlands that are normally very wet are now dry,

including the Pottsville Wetland. This means areas of peat soil, which are soils comprising partially decayed and densely packed organic material, are also dry. Council’s bushland officer Tanya Fountain said if a fire started in peat soils, it burned with high intensity and was difficult to extinguish. “As well as the loss of koalas due to high-intensity fire, it can also result in the loss of koala habitat due to collapse of trees, as the fire

burns deep into the soil and destroys it,” Ms Fountain said. Over the summer holiday period, council rangers will continue to monitor key spots known for illegal camping that are at higher risk of fire. “Bushfires are more likely to spread and cause damage on days when the weather is very hot, dry and windy,’’ Ms Fountain said. Devastating bushfires over the past few months have resulted in significant declines to many koala

populations in NSW.Keep a watch out for koalas this summer, particularly at Cudgen Nature Reserve, Koala Beach bushland estate, Pottsville Environment Park and Pottsville Wetland. Here are things you can do to help protect the Tweed’s koalas: 1. Report a fire immediately by calling triple0 (000). The quicker the Rural Fire Service can respond, the better chance they have at being able to contain the fire.

2. Report any suspicious behaviour or suspected arson to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Bushfire arson can destroy lives and properties and have longterm effects on the environment, including koalas. 3. Report any sick, injured or orphaned koalas to the Friends of Koala 24-hour hotline on (02) 6622 1233 or find out more information or report koala sightings online, go to tweed.nsw.gov .au/ koalas.

BE AWARE: Look out for koalas in the Tweed to protect their longevity. Picture: Contributed SENE01Z01MA - V2

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Lifestyle of luxury goes with freedom SERENE Living offers over-55s exclusive five-star, independent apartment living. Would you like to relish in the freedom of a luxurious retirement while enjoying the security of 24hour staffing and access to support services? The opulence and style of Serene Living’s distinct boutique design and coastal atmosphere are a stunning reflection of its oceanside location. Positioned where the river meets the sea in Tweed Heads, Serene Living has unrivalled 360-degree views from Mount Warning and the lush Tweed and Gold Coast hinterland to the pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean. It is also perfectly placed in a hub of entertainment venues, shopping centres, beaches and a medical precinct. Bask in your own private

oasis complete with modern high-end conveniences and lavish decor, or immerse yourself in the refreshing energy of new friends and an exciting social calendar. Whatever your style or desire, Serene Living has perfected the art of marrying exclusivity and privacy with an enticing range of social events and activities. APARTMENT DESIGN A stunning Serene Living apartment will have you immersed in your own private world of retirement living with no detail spared. With high-end finishes, elegant furnishings and distinguished colours and textures, every detail is of sheer luxe and style. Living options vary from a range of beautifully appointed one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments

PERFECT POSITION: Serene Living’s six-storey luxury apartment is opposite Tweed Heads Bowls Club, boasting unrivalled 360-degree views from Mount Warning and the lush Tweed and Gold Coast hinterland to the pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean. Picture: Contributed

in The Phoenix building, to an even more exclusive lifestyle with elevated privacy and opulence in the form of a three-bedroom penthouse apartment in The Stellar building. This highly exclusive space features a large floorplan, beautiful river and ocean views, its own unique interior design features,

high-end fittings and appliances, and private lift access. ABOUT SERENE LIVING Independently owned and operated, Serene Living was established in 2013 by private family-based company THRV Pty Ltd, which identified the need for a high-end luxury retirement

offering in the Gold Coast/ Tweed region. Serene Living is committed to providing luxury and financially secure retirement living for over 55s seeking a lifestyle that celebrates freedom and flexibility with the dedicated support of 24-hour security and staffing. Additional land adjoining

the current Serene Living accommodation and facilities has been acquired to ensure the future needs of the retirement sector are catered for and exceeded. To arrange an informative tour of Serene Living, phone Rebecca on (07) 5536 6820 or visit our website www.sereneliving.com.au.

Don’t miss it! There’s something exciting for everyone at Seniors Festival Gail Forrer Editor COME on friends, it’s time to start planning for the NSW Seniors Festival. To get the best out of the enormous range of activities,

entertainment and celebrations especially created for you and your friends, look through this festival feature and start marking down dates in your diary. Our extensive Calendar of Events in this feature lets you in on the great things happen-

ing and proves what a unique opportunity this is to experience something different or perhaps meet up with a new social group. Have you ever tried meditation, tai-chi or perhaps you have thought about attending a free Tech Savvy Seniors class

at the library but not quite made it there. The Seniors Festival really is the chance to start the year in a fresh direction. I’m sure you will be impressed with the practical aspect of many of the sessions. For instance, sessions

include valuable information on navigating a Home Care package or the course run by the Compassionate Communities Group, ‘Ten Things to Know Before You Go’, as well as the ‘Cost of Living’ workshop day designed to let you know about NSW Govern-

ment rebates. Of course, the over-50 Lifestyle Expo is always a good one-stop shop to gain an overall view of what is available to live the best life possible. I hope you get plenty of information and joy out of this feature.

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Calendar of events LOVE to celebrate? Then you’re in luck, because there will be lots to celebrate at the 2020 NSW Seniors Festival! The theme for the 2020 festival is Love to Celebrate. During the festival there are hundreds of free and discounted events and activities for seniors across NSW. The festival is on from February 12-23. See our Calendar of Events listings below has all the details.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12 DAISI SENIORS AND DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY BALLINA STALL 9am-3.30pm If you want to know about services and activities available to seniors in Ballina, how to recognise and respond to dementia, or to pick up some raffle tickets to win great prizes, drop in for a chat. Free event. Venue: Ballina Fair. Contact: 1800 800 340.

West Ballina. Bookings: Recommended. Contact: Annie Smith, Bunnings Ballina. on 02 6618 5684.

JAM’N’SONGS IN THE HALL 10am-noon Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre (PBNC), in partnership with the Pottsville Beach Community Hall Committee, will host a free interactive, live-music concert and morning tea for seniors, called Jam’N’Songs in the Hall. The title comes from a play on words in relation to band jamming and singing, and eating jam and scones. Guests will be encouraged to sing and play along with each performance, using the percussion instruments provided on the day. Venue: Pottsville Community Centre Hall, 1 Coast Road, Pottsville. Contact: Angela Maxwell, Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre, on (02) 6676 4555. Bookings are essential between 9am and 4pm Monday to Friday.

SOIL HEALTH GARDEN WORKSHOP WITH MAX TWEED SENIORS 11am-1pm OPENING CEREMONY Join Max, our Garden Guru, for an entertaining, informative Garden Workshop. Bring in soil samples for testing or pictures/samples of your plants that need some help. Note – please bring any plants in a closed plastic bag. Free event. Venue: Bunnings Ballina, River Street & Horizon Drive,

10am-noon Join in the celebration with the opening of the Seniors Festival 2020. Presentation of the Seniors Local Achievement Awards, entertainment provided by Lindsfarne Anglican School and Voice Weavers, with light refreshments. Free event. Venue:Auditorium, Tweed

LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST: Locals are invited to join in Seniors Festival celebrations over 12 days throughout February.

Heads Civic and Cultural Centre, corner Brett and Wharf Sts, Tweed Heads. Contact: (07) 5569 3110. Transport provided (bookings essential). Contact Tweed Byron Ballina Community Transport – phone 1300 875 895. Option 1 for Tweed Shire to make arrangements. Cost $5 to get you there and home.

HEALING WEDNESDAYS 11am-2pm Drop into “Hiromi Hotel’’ for a free program of creative and meditative activities inspired by Hiromi Tango’s exhibition Healing Circle – Home. Explore mindfulness, meditation, slow art, body movement and circle drawing with our healing facilitators. Check the gallery’s website for the weekly program. Venue: Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre, 2 Mistral Road,

Murwillumbah. Contact: (02) 6670 2712 or artgallery.tweed.nsw.gov .au.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13 HOME CARE AND SERVICES INFORMATION SESSION 11am-3pm We have organised a group of relevant guest speakers to attend this event to provide information to the community on various topics. Speakers include: Meals on Wheels; In-home alarms; My Aged Care Assessment Team and Red Cross. Free event. Venue: Ballina RSL, 1 Grant Street, Ballina. Bookings: Essential. Contact: Claudia Clissold, Right at Home Northern Rivers. on (07) 5655 0519.

RED CROSS SOCIAL

DAY 10am-1pm Please join us for a fun day embracing our local community. Take the opportunity to make new friends and enjoy live entertainment. Morning tea and light lunch will be provided. Vegetarian options available. Bring your neighbour. Plentiful parking, disability/wheelchair access. Venue: Tweed Heads South Community Centre, corner Heffron and Minjungbal Drive, Tweed Heads South. Free event. Contact: (07) 5524 5799.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION SEMINARS 10am Understanding Your Pension – Topics covered: Choices and consequences; Making the most of your pension; Centrelink assessment issues; Centrelink and Veterans’ Affairs

Picture: CTRB

Concession. Venue: Department of Human Services Centrelink Service Centre, 100 Blundell Boulevard, Tweed Heads South. Free event. Parking available at rear of building, disability/wheelchair access available. Morning tea will be provided. Contact: Bookings essential, phone 13 63 57 or email fis.seminar.bookings @humanservices.gov.au.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14 CELEBRATION WITH DINGO DENNIS DRYDEN 10am-noon Dingo will tantalise your ears and bring a smile to your day, performing his vast range of classic Australian ballads. Free event. Venue: Bunnings Ballina, CONTINUE PAGE 16

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outdoor parking. Contact: Bookings essential, phone (07) 5524 7712 or email banorapoint@ audika.com.au.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16 BALLINA MARKET

GET INVOLVED: The Festival Grants Program has funding available for local events and activities that encourage people over 60 to remain active and healthy. Picture: Contributed FROM PAGE 15

River Street &, Horizon Dr, West Ballina. Bookings: Recommended Contact: Annie Smith, Bunnings Ballina on 02 6618 5684.

FABS OPEN DAY 9am-3pm The (Fun Activities Banora Seniors) FABS program offers 24 groups of varying interests – come along to see what the centre has to offer. Call in to get further information, have a cuppa or join in with one of the groups that are held on Fridays. Venue: Banora Point Community Centre, corner Leisure and Woodland Drive, Banora Point. Free event. Contact: Bookings preferred, phone (07) 5569 3162 or email community services@tweed.nsw.gov .au.

BIG BOOK CLUB 10-11.30AM Themed tables, book chats and blind book dates. Venue: Tweed Heads Library, Tweed Heads Civic and Cultural Centre, corner Brett and Wharf Streets, Tweed Heads. FREE HEARING CHECK Seniors are invited to have

their hearing checked free with us and see if they could reconnect with more sounds in their world for which they may otherwise be missing out on. Available each day throughout the festival (February 12-22, except February 16). Venue: Audika Banora Point, Shop 3, Banora Point Shopping Centre, 3 Leisure Drive, Banora Point. Free event. Plenty of outdoor parking. Contact: Bookings essential, phone (07) 5524 7712 or email banorapoint @audika.com.au.

phone (07) 5569 3150.

FREE GYM TRIAL AND GROUP FITNESS CLASSES

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15

Catering specifically for seniors and run by exercise physiologists. Come and trial our fully equipped gym and group fitness classes during the Seniors Festival (February 12-22, except February 16). Free access for seniors – all classes and gym access available to experience free. Venue: Club Active, 3/4, 112–140 Minjungbal Drive, Tweed Heads South. Contact: Bookings essential, phone (07) 5523 9771 or go to clubactive.com.au. Ample parking at front door with wheelchair access.

BE CONNECTED

FREE HEARING CHECK

3- 5PM Bring along your device for one-on-one help to improve skills and confidence using technology. Each afternoon during Seniors Festival (February 12-22 except February 16). Free parking, disability parking available, wheelchair accessible. Venue: Tweed Heads Library, Tweed Heads Civic and Cultural Centre, corner Brett and Wharf Streets, Tweed Heads. Contact: Bookings essential,

Seniors are invited to have their hearing checked for free with us and see if they could reconnect with more sounds in their world for which they may otherwise be missing out on. Available each day throughout the festival (February 12-22, except February 16). Venue: Audika Banora Point, Shop 3, Banora Point Shopping Centre, 3 Leisure Drive, Banora Point. Free event. Plenty of

7-11am The East Ballina Lions invite you to the Ballina Market at Canal Road Ballina – a monthly market affectionately known as the “friendliest market around’’. Held on the third Sunday of the month, the stalls offer a wide variety of goods from food to fashion, and gadgets to gifts. Visit the Cafe under the Trees for local coffee and freshly cooked food. The Ballina Shire Concert Band provides musical entertainment, and all profits from the markets are returned to the community. Venue: Ballina Farmers Market, (Commemmoration Park, Ballina). Contact: Email ballinafarmersmarket@ gmail.com.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 17 ROCK’N’ROLL & BALLROOM DANCING EXHIBITION 11am-2.30pm We are having an entertaining day with various performers and catering provided. Limited seating available. Cost: $10. Bookings: Essential. Venue: Tweed Heads Civic Centre, cnr Brett and Wharf Sts , Tweed Heads. Contact: Doreen Welsh, Twin Towns Friends Association Inc, phone (07) 5524 1841.

NEW VOGUE BALLROOM DANCING EXHIBITION 11.30am

Twin Towns Friends will provide a light luncheon with a demonstration of ballroom and rock ‘n’ roll dancing. Cost $10. Venue: Tweed Heads Civic and Cultural Centre, corner Brett and Wharf Streets, Tweed Heads.

BUS TRIP TO MOUNT TAMBORINE 9am-4pm Pick up at Banora Point Community Centre at 9am. Morning tea included. Visit Botanical Gardens/ Gallery Walk – lunch at own expense. Returning to Banora Point Community Centre about 4pm. Cost: $25 a person. Contact: Northern Breeze Tours. Bookings essential, phone Rob on 0417 248 205 or send and email to rob.northernbreeze@gmail .com.

SENIORS FESTIVAL MORNING TEA 10am A morning tea will be provided with a performance by the students from Crabbes Creek Public School. Venue: Crabbes Creek Community Hall, 29 Crabbes Creek, Crabbes Creek. Entry cost: $5 donation. Contact: Bookings essential, phone Reg on 0411 343 842. Directions – Crabbes Creek is on the Old Pacific Highway between Burringbar and Yelgun. The Crabbes Creek Community Hall is on the left about 300m from the turnoff. Roadside parking is available directly outside the hall. Ramp provided for access to the hall.

HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE INFO 9am-5pm To provide and discuss Home Instead seniors’ resources such as booklets on dementia, arthritis, nutrition and exercise. Venue: Tweed Heads Library, Tweed Heads Civic

SENIORS

and Cultural Centre, corner Brett and Wharf Streets, Tweed Heads. Bookings not essential.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18 ORCHID TALK 10am-noon Join Ballina Orchid Society for a fun and informative talk on everything orchids. Venue: Bunnings Ballina, River Street and Horizon Dr, West Ballina. Bookings: Recommended. Contact: Annie Smith, Bunnings Ballina, on (02) 6618 5684.

BYRON SHIRE SENIORS FESTIVAL 10am-4pm This is a one-day event where the seniors’ activities will be open for members of the greater seniors community of the shire to attend. We will also host the Mayor’s Morning Tea on a date to be announced during the Seniors Festival, where Senior of the Year and other awards will be presented by the Mayor. Bookings: Not Required, Venue: Byron Community Centre, 69 Jonson Street, Byron Bay. Contact: Dulcie Wardell, Byron Community Centre, on (02) 6658 6807 or email seniors@byroncentre.com .au. COST OF LIVING INFO DAY 10am-4pm Information day on NSW Government rebates to help ease the cost of living, with more than 70 rebates and savings, including replacement rebates, energy and medical rebates, seniors card applications, seniors’ energy and travel rebates. Venue: Service NSW, 13–17 Rivendell Drive, Tweed Heads. COMPASSIONATE COMMUNITIES WORKSHOP 1-4pm We’re all going to die. Join us

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Venue: 31 Florence Street, Tweed Heads. Contact: Rebecca Kitchin on (07) 5536 6820 or email sales@sereneliving.com.au.

BUS TRIP TO ELTHAM VALLEY PECAN FARM

FEEL GOOD: Exercise classes for seniors are easier than ever to access.

to learn the “Ten Things You Need To Know Before You Go’’ with our compassionate Communities Northern NSW group. The workshop will share information about: End-oflife planning including advance care plans; wills; power of attorney; enduring guardian; emotional wills and ambulance plans; palliative care; funerals; grief and talking about death. Venue: Chapel, Tweed Valley Lawn Cemetery, 813– 871 Eviron Road, Eviron. Cost – gold coin donation. Afternoon tea and light refreshments supplied. Parking available, disability accessible. Contact: Bookings essential, phone (02) 6670 2435 or email cemeteries @tweed.nsw.gov.au.

SENIORS TRIO 10-11.30am Venue: Tweed Heads Library, Tweed Heads Civic and Cultural Centre, corner Brett and Wharf Streets, Tweed Heads. Free event. Contact: Phone (07) 5569 3150 or email tweed@rtrl.nsw.gov.au.

MEMORIES ON THE MOVE 10am and 2pm

Financial information seminars with popular themes from yesteryear. Tea and coffee provided. Free parking, disability parking available, wheelchair accessible. Venue: Department of Human Services, Centrelink Service Centre, 100 Blundell Boulevard, Tweed Heads South. Free event. Contact: Bookings essential, phone 13 63 57 or email fis.seminar.bookings @humanservices.gov.au.

10am Home Instead Senior Care presents, with its Dementia Care resources, a talk by Susanne Weiley from Dementia Australia about dementia awareness and risk reduction. Venue: Banora Point Community Centre, corner Leisure and Woodland Drives, Banora Point. Contact: Bookings preferred for catering purposes, phone 0400 758 479 or email karina@hisc goldcoast.com.au.

SMART POWER SAVERS – BILLS, SOLAR, BATTERIES

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19

11.30am-2pm Bring your last two electricity bills for one-onone help to save you money. Get expert tips on energy saving, solar, catch up on industry trends in battery storage. Lunch provided. Venue: Murwillumbah Community Centre, Nullum Street, Murwillumbah. Free event. Contact: Bookings essential, phone (02) 6670 2400 or go to smartpower saversmurwillumbah.event brite.com.au.

DEMENTIA AWARENESS AND RISK REDUCTION

VIEW BRAND NEW 'THE STELLAR' RESIDENCES & FACILITIES

OVER 50S LIFESTYLE EXPO 10am-4pm Join us for a free Over 50s Lifestyle Expo on site at Serene Living. Enjoy free entry, a free sausage sizzle, free goodies bag, lucky door prize, 4CRB Radio Station live on site, live entertainment, guest speakers, demonstrations and local community stall holders with giveaways and information about staying healthy, active and independent in retirement. Food and beverages available. Bookings: Essential.

SMART POWER SAVERS – BILLS, SOLAR, BATTERIES 11.30am-2pm Bring your last two electricity bills for one-onone help to save you money. Get expert tips on energy saving, solar, catch up on industry trends in battery storage. Free event. Venue: Harvard Room, Tweed Heads Civic and Cultural Centre, corner Brett and Wharf Streets, Tweed Heads. Contact: Bookings essential, phone (02) 6670 2400 or email dfirestone@ tweed.nsw.gov.au.

TWEED SHIRE COMMUNITY SERVICES OPEN DAY 10am-noon An opportunity to gain information and ask questions in relation to My Aged Care and services available in the local area. Venue: Activities Room, Tweed Heads South Community Centre, corner Minjungbul Drive and Heffron Street, Tweed Heads South. Contact: Bookings preferred, (07) 5569 3110 or email community

CURATOR’S TOUR – AT TWEED 10-11am Come and join our free curator’s tour of new and refurbished displays at Tweed Regional Museum Murwillumbah, including the exciting Land | Life | Cultural exhibition, which shares unique cultural, biological and geological stories that shape life in the Tweed. Enjoy our fascinating displays with a glimpse into the settlement and development of the shire. Light morning tea provided following tour. Wheelchair accessible. Accessible parking available. Venue: Tweed Regional Museum, 2 Queensland Road, Murwillumbah. Contact: Bookings essential, phone (02) 6670 2493 or email trm@tweed. nsw.gov.au.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20 MURWILLUMBAH MEALS ON WHEELS OPEN DAY 11am-2pm Visit the open day to make

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9am-4pm Pick up at Banora Point Community Centre at 9am – morning tea at Brunswick Heads, travel to Eltham Valley Pecan Farm. Day includes tour of farm, morning tea and lunch. Returning about 4pm. Contact: Northern Breeze Tours. Bookings essential, phone Rob on 0417 248 205 or email rob.northernbreeze@gmail .com. Cost: $45 a person.

services@tweed.nsw.gov .au.

P: 07 5536 6820

inquiries, see the premises, taste-test meals from an extensive menu and ask about volunteering opportunities with the social support program. Directions: First-left turn after golf club from North Arm Road. Limited parking in car park, some road parking in Golden Links Drive available. Path, ramp, one step at door – help available for wheelchair/wheelie access. Venue: Shop 1/2 Golden Links Drive, Murwillumbah. Free event. Contact: Bookings not essential – people can RSVP on (02) 6672 8866 or email mahmeals@bigpond.com.

TECHNOLOGY HELP 9.30am-2pm Wollumbin High School students to provide one-onone assistance with basic operation of apps and devices including tablets, iPads, iPhones and any other phones. Sessions are 30 minutes each. Sign in at administration office, where students will greet and direct you to the library. Parking available, wheelchair access and disabled parking available with notice. Free event. Venue: Wollumbin High School Library, North Arm Road, Murwillumbah. Contact: Bookings essential, phone (02) 6672 5121 or email nicole.thornton 3@det.nsw.edu.au.

TWIN TOWNS RADIO YACHT CLUB (TTRYC) 10am-2pm This event provides an opportunity for senior members of the community to try their hand at sailing a radio-controlled yacht on Lake Kimberley under the guidance of some of the club’s experienced sailors. Seniors can also try their hand at starting and competing with other sailors around a set course if they CONTINUED PAGE 20

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TIME TO CELEBRATE: Come along to the free Over 50’s Expo on Wednesday, February 19 at Serene Living, Tweed Heads. Picture: contributed

You’re invited to our Expo

YOUR PASSPORT TO EXOTIC DESTINATIONS @ SPIRITED TRAVELLER

“Travel Is Our Passion”

Located inside the Tweed Bowls Club Special offers available to Tweed Bowls Club members See our Exclusive Specials on our shop window. Call in to see us at the Club or call us Ph: 07 5536 5555

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If you have the travel bug Let us book you on a short coach trip or a long leisurely overseas cruise or tour Gail Argent (Mgr/director), Sharon McGahey & Julie Fathers have 90 years industry experience between them & have travelled the world extensively They will smooth the way ensuring your trip is one of total satisfaction Offering friendly, personalised service & exclusive cruise, airfare & tour deals

JOIN us to celebrate seniors within the local Tweed / Coolangatta Community. We would like to invite Seniors News readers to the Free Over 50s Expo hosted as part of the 2020 NSW Seniors Festival, taking place at Serene Living, 31 Florence Street, Tweed Heads, on Wednesday, February 19, from 10am to 4pm. The day boasts an array of senior health and lifestyle stalls, live entertainment, a

free sausage sizzle, demonstrations, guest speakers and giveaways in addition to a raffle with thousands of dollars in amazing donated prizes, raising money for Parkinson’s disease. There are a range of stalls catering to retirement and seniors, including equipment, mobility aids, health, support services, social groups and activities, travel, sport, lifestyle and leisure.

We are lucky to have 4CRB Radio live on site all day and Ron from Off The Record performing all your favourite hits from the ’40s, ’50s and ’60s. Enjoy educational and motivational talks about health and wellbeing in addition to being safety conscious, and check out taichi demonstrations. Registration a must on 07 5536 6820 or www.sereneliving.com.au/events

Learning to live with Parkinson’s VINCE Carroll, communitybased Parkinson’s specialist nurse from Coffs Harbour, will be a keynote speaker at the Free Over 50s Expo. Vince is one of the most senior and experienced nurses in NSW in supporting people living with Parkinson’s disease. He will give an overview of Parkinson’s, its symptoms and effects on wellbeing, and how to live a fulfilling life with the disease. Parkinson’s is the second most common neurological condition in Australia and is also more common than many cancers – including breast, colorectal, stomach, liver and pancreatic cancer. The average age of diagnosis is 60 but it can also be diagnosed in people as young as 40. Research evidence points to the importance of early intervention and selfmanagement to reduce both the burden of disease and caregiver stress. Parkinson’s specialist nurses such as Vince can

intervene early and facilitate self-management of the disease. An MoU has been signed between Parkinson’s NSW and the Northern NSW Local Health District for placement of a new specialist Parkinson’s nurse in the Tweed region by mid-2020. This will bring the number of specialist nurses in the Northern NSW community to four. Parkinson’s NSW also maintains a network of more than 70 Parkinson’s support groups. They provide non-

judgmental advice and support to people living with the disease, their carers and family members. One of these groups is in Tweed Heads. Members of Tweed Heads Support Group will be on hand to provide information on how groups can provide support, companionship, social opportunities and access to advice on living your best life as your Parkinson’s progresses. Parkinson’s Info Line: 1800 644 189.

SUPPORT: The expo has a wealth of advice for those living with Parkinson’s. Picture: Contributed

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Explore the benefits of Free foot care tips activating your stem cells FINDING out how you can naturally activate your stem cells is one of the things you can do at the Over 50s Expo. A recent major scientific breakthrough in stem cell technology helps activate your own stem cells and reset them to a younger, healthier state. The X39 patch uses a process we’re all familiar with. In the same way that sunlight signals our body to up production of vitamin D, a wavelength of light from the patch signals our body to up production of a copper peptide (GHK-Cu) proven to increase stem sell activity. Stem cells are the repair cells of your body. The less stem cell activity you have, the faster you age and the slower you heal. By age 60, stem cell production has typically dropped a massive

“The less stem cell activity you have, the faster you age and the slower you heal.

90 per cent. Backed by more than 80 clinical studies, LifeWave X39 technology has been shown to provide benefits including: rapid pain relief, mental clarity, enhanced sports performance, reduced inflammation and improved skin appearance. As an independent distributor, Jamie is here to help people improve their lives through stem cell rejuven-

ation. You can experience this wonderful new technology, backed by a full money-back guarantee. Jamie will also have a guest at his Serene Living stall: a 92-year-old who can share all about her transformation. Contact Jamie on 040 160 7972 or via email at jamie@jcm consultng.com .au. See https://www.face book.com/lifewavejcmorton/about/.

LEONARDO da Vinci said: “The human foot is a masterpiece of engineering, and a work of art.” They carry us throughout each day, but how much time and effort do we take in caring for them? Custom orthotics may be what you need to keep your feet healthy and reduce falls. Falls are a major cause of injury, sometimes resulting in ankle, leg and hip fractures and dislocations, as well as back and head injuries. Orthotics are shoeinsertable supports that can treat a range of foot and balance conditions. Custommade orthotics are far superior to over-the-counter varieties, as everyone’s feet are unique, and have to fit perfectly to your individual specifications. 3D-scanning technology allows podiatrists to scan your feet and produce a foot

HAPPY FEET: Foot care is important. Drop into the Over 50s Expo for expert advice from a podiatrist. Picture: Contributed

orthotic that matches the contours and structures of your feet exactly. Unlike off-the-shelf options, this technology enables podiatrists to design orthotics that not only suit your exact requirements but may help with your specific medical condition. The next time you visit

your podiatrist, ask if you are wearing the right footwear. You may need custom-made orthotics to fit your shoes and provide extra comfort. Pop in an talk to us at the Over 50s Expo for free advice, or phone (07) 5524 8440. My FootDr Podiatry is at Shop 1/107 Minjungbal Drive, Tweed Heads.

Ready to try something new – activate your stem cells

We can help with…

3D custom orthotics Biomechanical assessments Gait analysis Foot scanning Footwear assessment & ﬁtting

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*TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Valid for new patient initial visits only at My FootDr Tweed Heads. If eligible, please present your private health insurance card to recieve further beneﬁts. If you do not have private health insurance the cost is 20% off the initial consult fee (F004). For more information, please contact your local My FootDr clinic. Quote ‘Over502020’ at your appointment to recieve the 20% off. Appointment must be made before November 30th 2020. Not to be used with any other discount or offer.

My FootDr Tweed Heads 07 5524 8440 tweedheads@myfootdr.com.au 1/107 Minjungbal Drive Tweed Heads South NSW 2485

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like. Free event. Venue: Lake Kimberley, HEC Beswick Park, Winders Place, Banora Point. Contact: Richard Harradine, 0428 770 098 or (07) 5523 4324. Note: TTRYC club members will provide instructors to those who bring along their own radiocontrolled yachts to use on the day. Participants are also advised that there are no toilets, nor washing facilities available at HEC Beswick Park. Directions: Turn into Winders Place at the traffic lights in Leisure Drive, opposite the Banora Point Shopping Centre. Travel to the roundabout and turn right. The venue is beside the lake on the right-hand side. Kerbside parking is available in Winders Place.

MURWILLUMBAH CROQUET CLUB 2-5pm The club is hosting a “Come and Try Croquet Day’’. Croquet is for all ages. Socials and competitions. Venue: Behind the tennis club in Brisbane Street, near Red Cross Hall, in Knox Park, Murwillumbah. Parking: Knox Park car park. Contact: Bookings essential, phone Jan Neely (secretary) on 0407 723 087 or email jangorneely@yahoo.com.au.

CARD MAKING WORKSHOP 10am-noon Take the opportunity to make and take a card home. Regular classes held at the centre – beginners to advanced welcome. Tea and coffee provided. Free event. Venue: FABS Program – Banora Point Community Centre, corner Leisure and Woodland Drives, Banora Point

Contact: Bookings preferred, Janelle on (07) 5523 1370 or Louise on 0437 891 245.

HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE INFO STAND 9am-5pm Information for seniors, including free resources about dementia, wellbeing and aged care. Venue: Tweed Mall Shopping Centre, Wharf Street, Tweed Heads.

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CENTRELINK AND CARERS 9.30am Topics covered: Payment options; respite care; assets and income. Parking available at rear of building, including disability/ wheelchair access. Morning tea provided. Venue: Department of Human Services, Centrelink Service Centre, 100 Blundell Boulevard, Tweed Heads South. Contact: Bookings essential, phone 13 63 57 or email fis.seminar .bookings@humanservices.gov.au.

HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE INFO STAND

DOWNSIZING YOUR GARDEN 10am-noon How to grow absolutely everything in pots. Our garden design guru Peter will walk you through downsizing your garden and have everything looking absolutely fabulous in pots. Light refreshments provided. Free event. Venue: Bunnings Ballina, corner of Horizon Drive and River St, Ballina. Book online: bunnings.com.au/ stores/nsw-north/ballina. Contact: Annie Smith, Bunnings, on (02) 6618 5684.

FABS (FUN ACTIVITIES BANORA SENIORS) OPEN DAY 9am-3pm FABS program offers 24 groups of varying interests. Come along to see what the centre has to offer. Call in to get further information, have a cuppa or join in one of the groups held on Fridays. Free event. Venue: Banora Point Community Centre, corner Leisure and Woodland Drives, Banora Point. Contact: Booking are preferred. Book on (07) 5569 3162 or email communityservices@ tweed.nsw .gov.au.

9am-5pm Information for seniors about inhome care packages, including available services. General books on health and wellbeing for seniors are also available. Venue: Kingscliff Shopping Centre, 24–26 Pearl Street, Kingscliff.

COUNTRY MUSIC CONCERT 7-10pm A concert with old-time and modern country music. Local and visiting artists, singalong, lucky door prizes, raffles. Free supper will be served. Free event. Directions: Next to Murwillumbah Library. Parking at hall and on street. Wheelchair accessible. Venue: Murwillumbah Autumn Club, 16 Tumbulgum Road, Murwillumbah. Contact: Bookings essential, phone (02) 6672 2262.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22 BE CONNECTED 3-5pm Bring along your device for one-onone help to improve your skills and confidence using modern

SUNSET SESSION: There’s a variety of activites, workshops and events to enjoy throught the 2020 NSW Seniors Festival. Picture: Contributed

technology. There is free parking, disability parking, and wheelchair accessibility. Each afternoon during Seniors Festival (February 12-22, except February 16). Venue: Tweed Heads Library, Tweed Heads Civic and Cultural Centre, corner Brett and Wharf Streets, Tweed Heads. Contact: Bookings essential, phone (07) 5569 3150.

FREE GYM TRIAL AND GROUP FITNESS CLASSES Catering specifically for seniors and run by exercise physiologists. Come and trial our fully equipped gym and group fitness classes during the Seniors Festival ( except February 16). Free access for seniors – all classes and gym access available to experience free. Club Active is run by a team of accredited exercise physiologists who are committed to helping you change the way you age. Ample parking at front door

with wheelchair access. Venue: Club Active, 3/4, 112–140 Minjungbal Drive, Tweed Heads South. Contact: Bookings essential, phone (07) 5523 9771 or 0425 615 858, go to clubactive.com.au.

FREE HEARING CHECK Seniors are invited to have their hearing checked free with us and see if they could reconnect with more sounds in their world for which they may otherwise be missing out on. Each day throughout the festival except February 16. Venue: Audika Banora Point, Shop 3, Banora Point Shopping Centre, 3 Leisure Drive, Banora Point. Contact: Bookings essential, phone (07) 5524 7712 or email banorapoint@audika.com.au. Disclaimer: Dates and times are printed as submitted to us. No responsibility is taken for accuracy of this information.

Action stations for 2020 THE Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC) and Ballina and Alstonville Swimming Pools will be havens of activity during the NSW Seniors Festival celebrations, from February 17-21. The NSW Seniors Festival is all about looking after our senior citizens, getting out of the house, getting active and enjoying our time. Playing sport and joining fitness groups are not just

limited to young people or elite athletes. “As we age we really need to look after ourselves and the benefits of exercise are not only physical,” says Roberta O’Brien, coordinator of community facilities. “We all know that exercise is important for maintaining strength and fitness, but there are many other benefits that go along with it.

“Exercising is a social event and a great way to stay connected and engaged with others. “Exercising releases endorphins, which can boost your mood and cognitive function. It also improves healing, which takes longer as we age.’’ Ensuring there are activities catering for all ages, the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre has hosted a wide variety of sports since

opening its doors in October 2019. Some of these sports will be on show during the Seniors Festival. If getting wet is more your style, there’s also plenty of activities available at the Ballina War Memorial Swimming Pool or Alstonville Aquatic Centre. Come along to the following sessions (no booking required but pool entry applies):

Monday 10.30am to 12pm, Walking Netball, BISC; Tuesday 9.30am to 11am, Lifeball, BISC; Wednesday 9am to 10am, Aqua Fitness, Ballina Pool; 10am to 11.30am, Walking Football, BISC; Thursday 10am to 11.30am, Badminton, BISC; 9am to 10am, Aqua Fitness, Alstonville Pool; Friday 9am to 10am, Aqua Fitness, Ballina Pool; 12.30pm to 2.30pm, Pickle Ball, BISC. Ballina Indoor Sports Centre

(BISC) is at 63 Cherry Street, Ballina. Ballina War Memorial Swimming Pool is at 4 River Street, Ballina. Alstonville Aquatic Centre is at 15 Alston Avenue, Alstonville. For more information about what’s on offer, phone the council’s Community Facilities Team on (02) 6681 0599, or email community spaces@ballina .nsw.gov.au. SENE01Z01MA - V1

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Just add water for fun Gym, sports centre offering great ways to boost fitness SWITCH 24-hour gym and the Swimsations team at Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre are celebrating the NSW Seniors Festival this month with free classes and morning tea for seniors. The theme for 2020 Seniors Festival is “Love to Celebrate’’ and Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre can certainly help you do that. Try their range of classes to feel good, meet new people and boost your energy. The centre is celebrating the festival with free classes every day from February 17-21, followed by

morning tea. Classes are: Monday, February 17, 8am, Gentle Moves: Gentle exercises for any fitness level. Tuesday, February 18, to Thursday, February 20, 8am daily, Aqua: A fun and gentle aqua aerobics class for all fitness levels. Friday, February 21, 8am, Gentle Moves: Gentle exercises for any fitness level. SWITCH Gym acting manager Alyce Benson said exercising and having fun in a social setting was a great way to stay young at heart and feel healthy in body and spirit.

She said gentle weekly exercises could also reduce the risk of diseases such as heart attack and stroke, and ensure that older people continued to feel flexible and enjoy a good range of movement. “Research has shown that even small amounts of exercise can have enormous physical and mental benefits,” Ms Benson said. “Exercise provides a fantastic avenue to meet others and make social connections in a fun and friendly environment. “Social connections and friendships are a really important part of staying happy and healthy in later life.”

GOOD TIMES: Celebrate the NSW Seniors Festival with some social swimming activities and morning tea at GSAC. Picture: Contributed

There is no need to book for the Seniors Week free classes – simply turn up and

Health Wealth & Lifestyle Expo For the Over 50’s

FREE CLASSES

One Purpose One Solution Foundation

Presents a Seniors Expo at the Lismore Workers Club 231 Keen Street, Lismore

Monday 8am Gentle Moves

Saturday 22nd February 2020, 9.30am to 1.30pm EDST

Tuesday 8am Aqua

Many exhibitors which may include:

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For more information call 0419 709 661 or onepurposeonesolution@gmail.com

Wednesday 8am Aqua Thursday 8am Aqua

February 17–21 No need to book!

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Friday 8am Gentle Moves

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FREE ENTRY

Goonellabah. For more about what’s on offer, phone (02) 6625 5370.

Seniors Festival 2020

A Project of

Counselling Denture services Physiotherapy Meals Funeral services In home care Seniors Insurance Vision & Mobility aids Seniors travel Financial planners Free eye sight & hearing checks Legal advice Residential aged care providers Over 50’s resort style living And much much more

have some fun. Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre is at 50 Oliver Avenue,

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Held at Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre, 50 Oliver Avenue, Goonellabah.

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A fresh approach to care RIGHT at Home Northern Rivers provides private pay, in-home supportive care for older people, disabled adults, and people recovering from surgery, to help them continue living independently. Right at Home is a local that has recently opened an office in Tamar Village, Ballina. Our carers, including registered nurses, enrolled nurses and personal care workers are employees of the company and they are trained, screened and insured professionals who are oriented and tested before they begin providing services. Right at Home is an organisation dedicated to improving the quality of life for those we serve. We take a holistic approach to care, supported by an outcomesdriven, measurable, care

planning process. Care planning includes all aspects of a client’s wellbeing, including the vital socialisation aspects that support good mental health. In a nutshell, Right at Home focuses on the individual, on their specific needs, to improve the quality of their life. The Right at Home Northern Rivers office was opened in January 2020 by our managing director Claudia Clissold. Claudia is an enrolled nurse who has a vibrant and youthful approach to in-home care. As the managing director of Right at Home Northern Rivers she brings a wealth of community experience with her. Claudia maintains that our primary focus is on the delivery of care to our clients to improve the quality of their life.

We don’t have any administration fees or any ongoing case management and invoice-handling fees. This means we can offer much more care and support to our clients, which in turn provides them with a greater sense of satisfaction. Our fresh approach to inhome care and assistance has been an extremely rewarding experience. For most older Australians, the preference is to stay in their own home as long as possible. The use of in-home care services can extend the period a person can remain independently in their own home. Our fresh approach to inhome care means that we personally introduce all our care givers to our clients. We never allow a carer to present to a client without a formal introduction.

PERSONAL TOUCH: Right at Home introduces all care givers to its clients.

We schedule threemonthly supervisory visits with all our clients – included in our services at no additional cost. Most importantly, we listen to our

clients and tailor care plans to meet their requirements. At Right at Home we have adopted a fresh and personal approach to the delivery of our care. Please

Picture: Contributed

call our office on (02) 5622 6015 to arrange a free inhome consultation or feel free to come and see us at Tamar Village, 15/92 Tamar Street, Ballina.

• Approved Home Care Provider • Right Care Right People Right Services • NDIS

Feel the difference and experience the Right at Home approach to In Home Care & Assistance Right at Home Northern Rivers is a local in-home care and assistance provider dedicated to supporting the aged community, those living with a disability and those recovering from surgery. Our caregivers, including Registered Nurses, Enrolled Nurses and Personal Care Workers are employees of the company. Importantly, they are trained, screened and insured professionals who are orientated and tested before they begin providing services. Right at Home can aid with the referral to My Aged Care and registration for a Home Care Package. We understand this can be an overwhelming experience and we can support you through this process.

• Relationship Building • Personalised Care Plans • 24/7 Care • Meal Preparation & Dietary Planning • Registered Nurses & Enrolled Nurses • Hospital in the Home • Medication Administration

Right at Home Northern Rivers 15/92 Tamar Street, Ballina NSW 2478 | P 02 5622 6015 E care.nr@rightathome.com.au | W www.rightathome.com.au

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NO Exit Fees NO Basic Daily Fee NO Management Fees NO Consultation Fees NO Invoice Handling Fee NO Sign On Fee

• Culture of Caring

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Stars aligning for shows A CONVOY of retirement village buses will be heading to Sydney to celebrate the 2020 NSW Seniors Festival. The star-studded Premier’s Gala Concerts are a major highlight and are free to all seniors. The concerts will be held on Thursday, February 13, and Friday, February 14, at First State Super Theatre, ICC Sydney, in Darling Harbour. Four concerts will be held across two days, at 11.15am and 2.45pm each day. Performers include John Paul Young, Vanessa Amorosi, Paulini, Alfie Arcuri and Lorenzo Rositano. Undoubtedly one of the most popular Australian artists of the 1970s, John Paul Young will be serenading seniors at the 2020 Premier’s Gala Concerts. John regularly lit up the stage on Countdown. His easygoing, boyish personality made him a favourite with fans. His music was the soundtrack for the Countdown generation, with major hits such as The Love Game, I Hate The Music, I Wanna Do It With You, Standing In The

Rain and of course his No. 1 song, Love Is In The Air. John has more than four million record sales, and was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2009. Vanessa is one of Australia’s most loved artists of the 21st century. Her songwriting chops and dynamic vocal range have seen her sell two million records worldwide. Vanessa has released four acclaimed albums and received 16 ARIA and APRA nominations. She stopped the world in its tracks with Absolutely Everybody at the Sydney 2000 Olympics and released such era-defining singles as Shine, Have A Look, Mr Mysterious and This Is Who I Am. Vanessa was back in the limelight in 2019 with her new album, Back to Love. Paulini has been heralded as one of the finest vocalists and performers to come out of Australia. The Fijian-born songstress rose to fame through television screens on the first season of Australian Idol. Paulini rose to prominence on the top of the Australian ARIA

Charts in 2004 with her debut Platinum album One Determined Heart. She is still one of only 10 Australian female solo artists to have a No. 1 album debut on the ARIA Charts. Paulini played the lead role as Rachel Marron in the The Bodyguard Musical in 2017. This was closely followed by roles in the Saturday Night Fever Musical and 50th Anniversary of Hair the Musical. Most recently, Paulini was revealed as the Spider on the first season of The Masked Singer Australia. Distinctively emotive, soulinspired pop singer/songwriter Alfie Arcuri hit the mainstream after being crowned the winner of The Voice in 2016. Since winning the show, Alfie has headlined some of the biggest national television events, including State of Origin, Channel 9’s Carols by Candlelight and most recently SBS’s Eurovision – Australia Decides. His first single, If They Only Knew, released in July 2017, has already had in excess of 3.5 million

streams across all platforms and second self-penned track Love is Love headlined as the anthem of the Marriage Equality campaign in 2017. Lorenzo is a powerful and passionate opera singer. An operatic tenor, Lorenzo’s repertoire ranges from popular musical theatre songs to operatic arias and traditional Neapolitan classics. Lorenzo is known for his work in the internationally renowned group The Australian Tenors. He also appears regularly on Australian television and performed in the 2018 Australia Day Concert, live from the Sydney Opera House. Tickets are available via Ticketek and can be booked online at ticketek.com.au/seniors festival or by phone on 1300 130 613. If booking by phone, please be patient and expect lengthy delays. Seniors are welcome to ask friends or family to book their tickets online on their behalf. There is a maximum of four tickets a person, per concert. A last-minute release of tickets took place in late January.

FAN FAVOURITE: John Paul Young, one of the most popular Australian artists of the 1970s, will perform at the 2020 Premier's Gala Concerts.Picture: Contributed

Your rights. Your voice. Seniors Rights Service provides free, confidential advocacy, advice, education and legal services in New South Wales. Free and confidential Legal | Aged Care Advocacy | Education

1800 424 079 www.seniors rights service.org.au

Seniors Rights Service Limited | ABN 98 052 960 862 | ACN 626 676 533 V1 - SENE01Z01MA

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ESCAPE

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Clifford's Honey Farm goodies. Picture: Contributed

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Food on KI is artisan, seasonal and boutique, bringing joy to food lovers.

SENSUAL FEAST: Savour a sunset dining experience that only Kangaroo Island can serve up.

Picture: Contributed

Watching Seal Bay residents frolic is a highlight.

Join island’s wave of support Kerry Heaney IN JANUARY fires ravaged the picturesque western wilderness of Kangaroo Island, covering our television screens with heart-wrenching images of destruction. More than 30 per cent of the 4416 square kilometre island was affected, but there is still much to see and do on what is Australia’s third-largest island (and that includes Tasmania). While there is a long road ahead for the island’s recovery, getting visitors back onto KI, as the locals call Kangaroo Island, will help rebuild the economy as tourism and agriculture are the primary industries. Kingscote local Craig Wickham, who operates Exceptional Kangaroo Island’s wildlife and food tours, says he is optimistic about the island’s ability to recover from the bushfires, particularly if there is good rain. “Nature is resilient, and the animals have learned how to bounce back from fires over millions of years. Once we get some rain, things will start to green up pretty quickly,” Craig said. Where can you visit, and V1 - SENE01Z01MA

Excite your taste buds at Kangaroo Island Spirits.

what can you see? Work is under way to restore access for visitors to fire-affected areas of the island, including Flinders Chase National Park, home to the iconic Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, where the Visitor Information Centre and cafe were sadly destroyed. Iconic attractions such as Seal Bay Conservation Park, where a colony of endangered sea lions frolics on the beach, the interactive birds of prey experiences at Raptor Domain and the KI Wildlife Park, where more than 150 species of native animals live, are all open as usual. Cape Willoughby lighthouse on the eastern point of Kangaroo Island was

Picture: Contributed

built in 1852. There are daily tours and self-guided walking trails that give insights into life as a lighthouse keeper. Food on KI is artisan, seasonal and boutique, all words that bring joy to a food lover’s heart. The island’s first hatted restaurant, Sunset Food and Wine, focuses on South Australia’s seasonal best. Cactus Kangaroo Island is a newish cafe at Kingscote where you’ll stop for a coffee hit and find it hard to resist the freshly baked sweets. Visit wineries in Kingscote, Cygnet River and on the Dudley Peninsula, where the clifftop Dudley Cellar Door sells awardwinning locally grown and produced wines.

Emu Bay Lavender is not only a stop for lavender products, lavender scones and ice cream, it’s also close to a favourite swimming spot for locals. At American River, The Oyster Farm Shop farmgate sells marron, abalone, King George whiting and freshly plucked Pacific and Angasi oysters. Drop into Kangaroo Island Spirits and taste its premium gin and vodka. Mark Norek walks around KI guiding visitors on Life’s An Adventure walking tours. “It does not take long for fire-affected areas to regenerate, sometimes only three to six months, and it is amazing to walk through,” Mark says. One of KI’s significant losses in the fires was Southern Ocean Lodge. Owners James and Hayley Baillie had an architect on the site within days and are committed to rebuilding their vision echoing the resilience of the Kangaroo Island community that has recovered from severe bushfires in the past. Locals say a helping hand is always welcome and it’s a bonus when all you have to do is visit. How do you get to

A visit to the Oyster Farm Shop is a must.

Kangaroo Island? Take your car to Kangaroo Island via a ferry with Sealink or KI Connect, or fly with QantasLink or Rex direct from Melbourne or Adelaide into Kingscote.

Picture: Contributed

Donate to help the recovery. You can also help recovery efforts by donating to the KI Mayoral Relief and Recovery Bushfire Fund, SA Country Fire Service or KI Wildlife Network.

WANDERLUST

FEBRUARY, 2020//

Discover the wonders of Copenhagen

SENIORS

PRETTY AS A PICTURE: The Marble Church and fountain in Amalienborg Palace and Gardens. Pictures: Shirley Sinclair

More to this beautiful city than glimpsed tree Shirley Sinclair THE Hop On, Hop Off Boat guide tells us we are coming up to the most photographed tree in Denmark. Tree? OK. There are so many highlights on a canal tour around Copenhagen, this must be an impressive tree if it’s important enough to point out. Along with the other passengers, we ready our smartphones and cameras for the big moment. Then the penny drops. As the canal boats come out of the tunnel under the bridge, Our Saviour Church’s distinctive “corkscrew” tower comes into view. We only have about 30 seconds before the boat moves on. But many people miss the momentary shot, capturing the tree just above the canal instead. It’s so commonplace that the tree has its own Facebook page: Missedthegoldenchurch. Look it up. We all laughed and laughed. The good news is that you can get off the boat at the Christianshavn stop and

have a much closer look at this elegant baroque church with a black and gold helix (corkscrew) spire that reaches 90m and the external anticlockwise winding staircase that can be climbed to the top for 360degree views over central Copenhagen. You will also marvel at the melodies played by the bells of its carillon – the largest in northern Europe – which plays hourly from 8am to midnight. Nearby at the same boat stop is Christiania: a quirky “Freetown” that boasts colourful houses and sculptures, creative artists and an alternative hippy society – the equivalent of our Nimbin but on a smaller scale. In 1971, a group of hippy squatters broke down the barricades to the abandoned military base and Christiania was born. Hundreds of curious visitors daily now pass through the defined entrances to this antiestablishment commune that houses up to 1000 people on 7.7 hectares. While the community governs itself with its own rules that are independent

of the Danish government, it has still had its run-ins with police, mostly due to its reputation as an area for cannabis trade, especially in the so-called Green Light District’s Pusher Street. Many residents are actively campaigning to rid Christiania of drugs but on the day we visited last July, stalls were still in operation and we abided by a sign warning visitors that no photos are allowed inside Christiania, due to the possible sale of drugs and paraphernalia that might be captured. But there is much more to this bohemian area than meets any disapproving eye. Christiania hosts regular concerts on stage and in various venues that attract jazz, blues and contemporary music lovers from far and wide as well as those wanting to join in impromptu jam sessions. Skaters from around the world make a beeline for the ALIS Wonderland skate park with its wooden bowl that also hosts contests and demonstrations, as well as graffitied half-pipes and other equipment to test skills. Plenty of cafe seats are

An intricate 20th-century artwork in the Tapestry Room.

available for a quick caffeine hit, and visitors have an array of breakfast/brunch/ lunch takeaway choices including tasty organic vegan and vegetarian offerings, hamburgers, Thaiinspired dishes as well as Sunshine Bakery pastries. Or simply get away from the crowds and relax by the canal, surrounded by trees and good vibes. To learn more about this fascinating place, Christiania guided tours are held at 1 and 3pm daily. But there’s certainly plenty more to explore in this city, which is home to Australia’s homegrown Princess Mary and her husband Frederik, the Crown Prince of Denmark. We found even a 48-hour Hop on Hop Off Boat ticket wasn’t enough time to quench our curiosity for this enticing capital but the routes do help visitors explore the well-defined

Colourful Christiania, a “Freetown’’ founded by squatters..

neighbourhoods and their distinct vibes. One of our favourite spots for a drink overwater on the canal happened to be at this same stop, at Christianshavns Badudlejning and Cafe. Apparently the watering hole has been welcoming guests since 1898 and it’s also right opposite our favourite bakery and cafe:

Lagkagehuset, where we couldn’t resist a coffee and cinnamon roll (kanel snegle) daily. Another boat tour guide tells us that while thousands of visitors to Copenhagen all want to see the Little Mermaid at Stop D, the relatively small sculpture also regularly makes Europe’s Most Disappointing Attractions List, alongside

Colourful Nyhavn of tourist brochure fame.

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It’s so commonplace that the tree has its own Facebook page: Missedthegoldenchurch. other statues such as Brussels’ Mannikin Pis. It’s still fun to tick it off the bucket list but try to pick your time (early morning or late afternoon) or you’ll be jostling for a picture with busloads of other tourists. While here, stroll along the top of the ramparts of one of the best-preserved forts in Europe at the Citadel (Kastellet), which forms the shape of a star or pentagon with bastions at its corners. The historic site, built in the 17th century to guard the approach to the harbour, these days is mostly a public park that attracts joggers and walkers around its large parade ground, barracks and various other buildings including the Citadel Church and a windmill. Christiansborg Palace (Departure Point A at Ved Stranden) is where we spent the better part of two hours, wandering the opulent, V1 - SENE01Z01MA

800-year-old seat of power. While visitors can choose to inspect The Royal Stables, The Royal Kitchen, Christiansborg Palace Chapel and the ruins under the palace, we devoted our time to The Royal Reception Rooms and The Great Hall with its 1100 years of Danish history laid out in tapestries. Queen Margrethe II carries out her official duties in these rooms: receiving guests, signing acts of Parliament into law, hosting banquets and gala dinners for state visits and other occasions. It’s an insight into a whole new world – one of parquetry floors, crystal chandeliers, and black-andgold colour schemes, magnificent antique sideboards and priceless ceramics and paintings. Among the friezes is one 35m long by Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen, done in

1812, of Alexandra the Great entering Babylon after his conquest of Persia. The Plate Room highlights the Flora Danica setting featuring lifesize plants in the botanical artwork (being porcelain, the plates are only used to serve dessert despite being a complete dinner set, because other courses are usually served on silver plates). The royal dining hall, where royal banquets were once a daily ritual for the court, is dominated by the massive oval mahogany table, able to seat 52 guests, but which is now seldom used. The eye-catching Tapestry Room is a pleasant surprise of history through colourful embroidery, with faces of The Beatles and Donald Duck, the Second World War and Berlin Wall among some of the 20thcentury inclusions. The Throne Room is another must-see for its gold and embossed burgundy thrones, Greek marble pilasters, with a ceiling painting by Danish artist Kraesten Iversen and walls clad in silk hangings of Danish coat of arms with three lions and nine hearts from Lyon in France. The king’s throne features two golden lions and the queen’s throne has two gilded mythical creatures called griffons. The thrones – historic relics from the time of absolute monarchy (1660 to 1848) – were nearly lost when the palace burned to the ground in 1884, but are not used by the Queen, who ascended to the throne the day after her father died in 1972. Take along an audio guide to explore on your own or join a guided tour of the palace. The Ofelia Plads Departure Point (or if we just turned left and walked from our Wakeup Copenhagen Borgergade hotel) is closest for Amalienborg Palace and Gardens and the spectacular Marble Church (Frederik’s Church) or further on to the beautiful Rosenborg Castle and The King’s Garden (which is home to the statue of Little Mermaid author and revered Dane Hans Christian Andersen). But Copenhagen’s bestknown attraction is Nyhavn (Departure Point B) – with its colourful 17th-century waterfront buildings that have been reimagined as restaurants, cafes, bars, hotels and specialty shops.

As a tourist mecca, Nyhavn is simply a fun place to be at any time of year. We happened to visit during the Copenhagen Jazz Festival, which offers free and ticketed events throughout the cities at various venues including the little park surrounding Memorial Anchor at Nyhavn, where we spent a couple of hours listening to a hardworking trio play popular music hits from artists including our own Crowded House. Pull up a chair and gaze out over the passing parade of people and boats (including historic wooden ships) while downing a Carlsberg or two. But be warned: Copenhagen isn’t cheap by Aussie standards and an extended time here will cost you. We lapped up the twilight on our first night, paying just under $200 (915 Danish kroner) for a three-course meal for two. Our choices from a set menu led us to half-lobster entrees, main meals of eyefillet steak wrapped in bacon with hollandaise sauce and potatoes, and grilled salmon pasta with tomato, mushroom and basil, with crème brulees for dessert. With drinks (half-bottle of white Chilean wine and two schooners of Jacobson brown ale), the bill was worth it just once for the happy atmosphere and waterside panoramas begging to be photographed. For something a little more reasonable, cross the Inderhavnsbroen – a bridge that opened in 2016 connecting Nyhavn on the west side of the river to Christianshavn on the east – for a choice of bars and street food vendors including Gasoline Grill, Pasta Station, Sweet Treat and Fish & Chips in the Broens Skotebane food court, where it’s easy to strike up conversations with visitors from all over the globe at the picnic table seating. Other major attractions you will want to linger longer at on the boat tours are Tivoli Gardens (for its flowers, restaurants, rollercoasters and concerts), the Opera House, and the impressive waterfront Black Diamond extension to the Royal Danish Library (so nicknamed because of the polished black-granite cladding and irregular angles of the building).

Copenhagen viewed from the water gives another perspective of the city’s charms.

The eye-catching Our Saviour's Church has a distinctive “corkscrew” tower.

Four full days weren’t enough to conquer one of Europe’s oldest cities, established as a 10thcentury Viking fishing settlement. If you can avoid that tree near Our Saviour Church and any pricey tourist traps, you’ll find the city really can be like the song from my childhood: Wonderful, wonderful Copenhagen Friendly old girl of a town ‘Neath her tavern light On this merry night Let us clink and drink one down To wonderful, wonderful Copenhagen Salty old queen of the sea Once I sailed away But I’m home today Singing Copenhagen, wonderful, wonderful Copenhagen for me.

DISCOVER IT COPENHAGEN Canal Tours Copenhagen, which operates open and covered boats, has been plying the Copenhagen harbour and canals since 1904. The Hop On Hop Off routes allow travellers to see old and new architecture and historic points of interest, with commentary by experienced guides. If you buy the Best Offer ticket, you can use the bus and the boat for different perspectives and sights on land and water. CONTACT Go to stromma.com/ copenhagen. ACCOMMODATION Wakeup Copenhagen Borgergade, 9 Borgergade, Copenhagen. Call (45) 44 800 000.

WELLBEING

FEBRUARY, 2020//

SENIORS

Make a start towards fit and fabulous Baby boomers leading the charge in fitness

THE messages from the health and fitness sectors about getting moving and staying active for a much better quality of life is getting through to baby boomers. And there is an increasing number of accredited physical trainers qualified in working with seniors. Fitness Australiacommissioned research has revealed baby boomers are doing far more physical activity over a year than any of the younger generations. Fitness Australia spokeswoman Chantal Brodrick said at the top of the list of activities were walking and gardening. “From the research, we are also seeing they are doing group fitness classes and strength training,” she said. “We know that strength training can really help osteoporosis; it helps strengthen our bones.”

Ms Brodrick said baby boomers had come to understand the importance of moving more often to help prevent chronic health conditions and alleviate existing health issues. “As soon as you start being active, you feel better for doing it,“ Ms Brodrick said. Jo Hill, 73, and her husband Philip, 70, wanted to stay fit as they aged. Jo has been active all her life, particularly as she managed the physical requirements of her severely disabled son. “I am exercising three times a week,” Jo said. She does a cycling class, walking, rowing and free weights. Since her husband retired five years ago, he has joined Jo in the gym, but he does the exercises that suit him. “We will keep doing this as long as we can,” Jo said. “We won’t stop until we have to; it’s just part of our life. “We feel so much better. “We have compared

WILLS WEEK 9-13 MARCH 2020

ourselves to friends of the same age that walk far too slowly for us. “It’s a mindset as you get older that people think older. We try not to do that.” Before you start a fitness activity or introduce strength training to your activities, Ms Brodrick says it’s vital you seek guidance from a qualified trainer. The best place to find a registered trainer who is working near you and is qualified to work with older adults is to go to Find a Personal Trainer on fitnessaustralia.com.au. “This is important because you need to know you are in safe hands,” Ms Brodrick said. “You need to know that if you are starting an exercise routine that you are working with someone who understands your body and goals, and why it is that you want to become more active.” For those baby boomers who haven’t got moving yet, Ms Brodrick has some motivational tips:

STRENGTH AND WISDOM: Exercise physiologist Chantal Brodrick with senior client Jo Hill. Picture: Mark Stanley

• If you plan your activity with friends, you are less likely to give it up and maybe they won’t either, since both of you will be relying on each other for motivation and company. • It will be much more fun if you do an activity you really enjoy. It’s likely to feel less like a chore. • Find a trainer so both of you can work on a program

and towards your goals. • If you are worried about the cost of a trainer, look for ones that offer small-group training or gym classes. • Know why you want and need to get moving. Is it health, maintaining independence, to meet new people, try something new or a mix of all of the above? • Check with your GP on what activities you are

capable of doing safely. • It’s important to start at a manageable level and gradually build up. • Doing activities that require you to move in all directions – such as yoga, dance, tai chi and even simple at-home moves like single-leg balancing – help hone your balance, in turn reducing the risk of falls and fractures.

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Benefits of grandsitting Grandparents talk about why connections to grandchildren Tracey Johnstone FIVE days a week Margot Bain happily has her hands full, looking after her four very young grandchildren, taking them to the park, beach or just sitting reading to them. After missing out on spending a lot of time in her younger years in the company of her busy mother, Margot is determined to ensure she gives the best of her time and love to her grandchildren as she did to her four daughters. Actively engaging with the children gives Margot a great sense of connection to them and to her daughters. A recent German observation research project, published in BMJ Open, found Margot’s type of interaction with her grandchildren helps to reduce social isolation and loneliness in seniors. The researchers observed 3949 grandparents. Those who didn’t have an active caring role had higher average loneliness scores and were in regular contact with fewer people important to them. In Australia, about 40 per cent of children under the age of three are cared for by grandparents on a weekly basis, the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIF) reports. “It’s enhancing my social network,” Margot says. The researchers found caring for grandchildren could also expand the social circle of grandparents, allowing them opportunities to establish relationships with other parents or grandparents. Margot says she chats to old friends through Facebook, sharing among them grandchildren photos and stories, and she plans meet-ups at the local park with other grandparents. When her daughters were growing up, Margot met a lot of new friends through her local playgroup. Once her grandchildren V1 - SENE01Z01MA

GRAND CARING: Margot Bain (Nonna Gogo) with daughters and grandkids Annie, Henry, Matteo, Holly and Toto.

IN AUSTRALIA, ABOUT 40 PER CENT OF CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF THREE ARE CARED FOR BY GRANDPARENTS ON A WEEKLY BASIS. THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF FAMILY STUDIES

are old enough, she looks forward to repeating this experience through the playgroup and then school near her northern Sydney home. Margot knows while the children are young, she needs to be available almost full time. But, after six hours each day, “It’s enough for me as I get so tired after that”, Margot, 60, admits. She promises herself Sunday off and fits in singing with the Big Sing choir and creating stunning painted ceramics. Grandparent caring often doesn’t stop once a

grandchild starts school. The AIFS reports the most common type of nonparental care for children under 13 years is grandparents (18.6 per cent) followed by before - and after-school care (14.8 per cent). As far as Ivanka Boyd, who is still working full time, is concerned, it will go on until her two grandsons have finished their schooling. Since the boys were born, Ivanka has religiously been looking after them every second weekend. “I cook them healthy food,” Ivanka said. “I am not a lolly and soft-drink grandma. I am the health food and culture grandma. “I have given them what is lacking at home – lots of special love and attention, good food and culture. “I take them out, whether they like it or not, to museums and art galleries

and teach them general knowledge.” Now the boys are in their mid-teens she is enjoying their company over restaurant meals. Ivanka also attends some of their sporting matches where she actively talks to other grandparents and

parents. “I have the personality where I will interact with a telegraph pole, if necessary,” she admits. The researchers suggest that by providing grandchild care, grandparents may boost their self-esteem and may develop positive

Bryce and Phoenix with their grandmother, Ivanka Boyd.

relationships with their children and grandchildren. They also suggest that this positive impact might wear off if grandparents are called on too often to step in and care for a grandchild, especially if this interferes with other aspects of their lives.

Picture: Contributed

LIVING

FEBRUARY, 2020//

SENIORS

Living

App puts health in spotlight CONTRIBUTED LEADING Victorian not-forprofit aged care provider Benetas has launched an online resource for older Australians to screen their physical resilience and act to stay independent for longer. The Positive Ageing Tool, commonly referred to as PAT, has been developed on the back of governmentfunded research by Benetas in 2018 in conjunction with Monash University. Two years in the making,

the tool means older Australians can be in a far better position to detect and address early signs of frailty before a serious health decline. Benetas general manager of quality, outcomes and research Catherine Joyce said this was a much-needed tool, with one in two Australians over the age of 60 who live in their own home being at risk of a relatively minor health issue triggering serious decline. “Once that happens, for

EARLY ALERT: Benetas provides a new online tool to help older Australians monitor their health.

many there’s no going back,” Dr Joyce said. “If someone has low physical resilience, a small incident like a fall or virus could be the tipping point that means they’ll no longer be able to live independently in the community. “We all know someone who has been managing fine and then an incident which might be minor for other people tips them over into being in need of high care and residential support. “This is about getting in early and helping to avoid exactly that.” The $1.2 million Federal Government research grant

from the Department of Health was designed to inform pre-emptive ways in Australia for older people to better maintain their physical resilience and curb the impact of frailty in the community. With five simple questions, PAT offers older Australians an evidencebased, user-designed health assessment for people as young as 60 to monitor their physical resilience, coupling this with expert resources to support people. “We recommend that people complete the quick assessment every six months,” Dr Joyce said. “They seem like simple

questions to answer, but collectively they’re proven to be strong early indicators for risk of serious health decline. “Importantly, there are many steps that we can take to stay healthy and resilient, whether we’re 60 or going on 90.” Benetas CEO Sandra Hills said health promotion and early intervention was exactly where aged care needed to be headed. “The traditional aged care services from residential care, home care, clinical and allied health services are all incredibly important, but if we’re going to meet an

Picture: Contributed

ageing population we really need to be at the forefront of early intervention,” Ms Hills said. “This is about ensuring that people and their families have the information they need well in advance of their health declining. “Whether you’re 65 and going for runs or 75 and facing prescription changes, we need people to be monitoring their health, taking proactive steps and not wait until it’s too late.” PAT also hosts a suite of practical resources including nutritionally beneficial recipes and support services.

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Gene test detects glaucoma risks AUSTRALIAN researchers have identified 107 genes that increase a person’s risk of developing the eye disease glaucoma, and developed a genetic test to detect those at risk of going blind from it. The research, led by QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute and Flinders University, has just been published in the journal Nature Genetics. The researchers now want 20,000 people to sign up to their Genetics of Glaucoma Study so they can find more genes involved in the disease.

Glaucoma is a group of diseases that are characterised by progressive damage and degeneration of the optic nerve, causing gradual loss of vision. It is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide and is predicted to affect 76 million people by 2020. Although there is no cure for glaucoma, treatment can reliably slow or halt the rate of disease progression in most cases. Up to 50 per cent of people with the disease do not know they have it. Lead researcher and the head of QIMR Berghofer’s

Statistical Genetics Group, Associate Professor Stuart MacGregor, said identifying the new genes had allowed the researchers to develop a glaucoma polygenic risk score (PRS) that can predict who is likely to get the eye disease. “Glaucoma is a genetic disease and the best way to prevent the loss of sight from glaucoma is through early detection and treatment,” Associate Professor MacGregor said. “Our study found that by analysing DNA collected from saliva or blood, we could determine how likely a

person was to develop the disease and who should be offered early treatment and/ or monitoring. “Importantly, unlike existing eye health checks that are based on eye pressure or optic nerve damage, the genetic test can be done before damage begins so regular screening can be put in place. “Having a high risk score doesn’t mean you will definitely get glaucoma, but knowing you could be at future risk allows people to take the necessary precautions.” Clinical lead researcher

and chair and academic head of the Department of Ophthalmology at Flinders University, Professor Jamie Craig, said the study results provided hope that mass screening for glaucoma could be offered in the future. “There are Australians who, if they’d had appropriate treatment a few years earlier, wouldn’t have gone blind,” said Professor Craig, who is also a consultant ophthalmologist. “One in 30 Australians has glaucoma, but most people only find out they have it when they go to the

optometrist because they are losing vision, or for a general eye check.’’ The researchers are now hoping to recruit 20,000 people with a personal or family history of the disease to join their Genetics of Glaucoma Study so that they can identify more genes that play a role in the condition. People interested in taking part in the research can visit the Genetics of Glaucoma study website www.qimrberghofer.edu.au /genetics-of-glaucoma, phone (07) 3845 3981 or email Glaucoma_Genetics @qimrberghofer.edu.au.

On-demand bus hailed TRACEY JOHNSTONE IN the US’s Arlington, where there is a population of 400,000, their fixed bus service has been fully replaced by an on-demand system. And now Australia is preparing for similar changes in regulated public transport as on-demand transport technology provider Via moves into Australia. Via, an international company, has its product in 20 countries. In Australia it’s already being used in Coffs Harbour, Newcastle, Adelaide and northern and northwest Sydney. Rigid transport routes will disappear and dynamic routes that improve the efficiency of a public bus system are the future. Via’s Andy Ambrosius said many of Australia’s elderly were serviced by community transport. “They don’t really use any form of technology,” Mr Ambrosius said. “There is very little flexibility. Via has engaged with dozens of community transport providers who are keen to organise their operation and provide new service offerings.” Will there be fewer scheduled bus services in some areas? Via spokesman Zack Wasserman said: “I think it’s already an established pattern. “In places where fixedschedule bus services are inefficient because there isn’t a lot of passenger uptake, we are seeing agencies choosing to V1 - SENE01Z01MA

PEOPLE ARE ABLE TO REQUEST A RIDE EXACTLY WHEN THEY WANT ONE RATHER THAN SCHEDULING THAT RIDE IN ADVANCE.

ON BOARD WITH CHANGE: On-demand bus collection points can be transport hubs or personal locations.

retire those routes and replace them with on-demand service that is more efficient in terms of vehicle utilisation and provides a better quality of service for the people who demand that service.” Currently being used are small buses or vans, but the Via technology is “vehicle agnostic”, Mr Wasserman says. “People are able to request a ride exactly when they want one rather than scheduling

that ride in advance,” Mr Wasserman said. “What that means is you take out your smartphone, download the app, then you say where you are and where you want to go. The vehicle is dispatched and picks you up. “It takes you to your destination and makes short stops along the way to pick up and drop off other people.” It sounds a bit like a mashup of Uber and the regular bus service. The difference is its

on-demand, with a much greater saving to users. Collection points can be transport hubs or personal locations. It really is the next generation of public transport. Take Cooee Busways in Sydney. They are a Via partner contracted by Transport NSW to transport locals within the service area to Rouse Hill and Tallawong metro stations and for those wanting to connect with trains travelling to Bella

Picture: Contributed

Vista, Norwest, and the Hills Showground metro stations. It’s a “first/last mile’’ service – instead of driving their car to a transport hub, school or nonemergency medical location, travellers hail the on-demand service to travel directly to that destination. Because the service is ondemand, it replaces the fixedrun public bus, which may be moving through the suburbs when there is no demand at that time for that service.

The Via app is able to be configured to suit the needs of the transport partner. For example, it can have the option of taking ride requests from people who don’t use smartphones. Instead, they can phone a call centre to make a booking. Disability and mobility equipment requirements can be noted in a user’s profile so that each time they make a booking, that physical requirement is built into the booking. On Sydney’s northern beaches, Keolis Downer has been trialling the technology using multi-person vehicles. It was introduced when BLine was launched and operates between Palm Beach and North Narrabeen, connecting customers directly from their homes to Pittwater’s three B-Line hubs, at Mona Vale, Warriewood and Narrabeen. Coffs Harbour’s Woopi Connect trial on-demand service works across two zones, Monday to Friday from 7am to 7pm. It picks travellers up at or near their home sand takes them to any destination within the zone or into the second zone. The Concession cost is between $2.10 and $3.30.

Money

MONEYSMART.GOV.AU NO ONE wants to think about death, but it’s important to decide what will happen to your assets when you die. Find out how you can give instructions to your family about your legal and medical preferences should you fall ill or lose the capacity to make those decisions yourself. The issues to consider are: estate plans; wills; testamentary trusts; powers of attorney; your legal and financial housekeeping; and estate plans. Estate plans: An estate plan includes your will as well as any other directions on how you want your assets distributed after your death. It includes documents that govern how you will be cared for, medically and financially, if you become unable to make your own decisions in the future. You must be over 18 and mentally competent when you draw up the legal agreements that form your estate plan. Key documents might include: a will, superannuation death nominations; testamentary trust; powers of attorney, power of guardianship, and anticipatory direction. If you have made a binding nomination in your super or insurance policies, the

FEBRUARY, 2020//

SENIORS

Estate planning ensures your wishes carried out beneficiaries named in those policies will override anyone mentioned in your will. If you have a family trust, the trust continues and its assets will also be distributed according to the trust deed, no matter what is written in your will. Wills: A will takes effect when you die. It can cover things like how your assets will be shared, who will look after your children if they are still young, what trusts you want established, how much money you’d like donated to charities and even instructions about your funeral. Your will can be written and updated by private trustees and solicitors, who usually charge a fee. Some Public Trustees will not charge to prepare or update your will if you nominate them to be the executor of your will. Other Public Trustees may only exempt you from charges if you are a pensioner or aged over 60. If you die intestate or your will is invalid, an administrator appointed by the court pays your bills and taxes from your assets, then distributes the remainder, based on a predetermined formula, which may not be how you intended your assets to be distributed.

If you die intestate and don’t have any living relatives, your estate is paid to the state government. Testamentary trusts: A testamentary trust is a trust set out in your will that only takes effect when you die. Testamentary trusts are usually set up to protect assets. Here are some reasons why you would create one: A. The beneficiaries are minors (under 18-21 years old). B. The beneficiaries have diminished mental capacity. C. You do not trust the beneficiaries to use their inheritance wisely. D. You do not want family assets split as part of a divorce settlement. E. You do not want family assets to become part of bankruptcy proceedings. A trust will be administered by a trustee who is usually appointed in the will. A trustee must look after the assets for the benefit of the beneficiaries until the trust expires. Powers of attorney: Appointing someone as your power of attorney gives them the legal authority to look after your affairs on your behalf. Powers of attorney depend on which state or territory you are in: they can

refer to just financial powers, or they might include broader guardianship powers. You will need to check with your local Public Trustee. The different types of power of attorney are: A. General power of attorney is where you appoint someone to make financial and legal decisions for you, usually for a specified period of time, for example if you’re overseas and unable to manage your legal affairs at home. This person’s appointment becomes invalid if you lose the capacity to make decisions for yourself. B. Enduring power of attorney is where you appoint a person to make financial and legal decisions for you if you lose the capacity to make your own decisions. C. Medical power of attorney can make only medical decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself. You can prepare a few other documents to help your legal appointees and family as you grow older, including an enduring power of guardianship that gives a person the right to choose where you live and make decisions about your medical

care and other lifestyle choices, if you lose the capacity to make your own decisions. Anticipatory direction records your wishes about medical treatment in the future, in case you become unable to express those wishes

yourself. An advance healthcare directive (or living will) documents note how you would like your body to be dealt with if you lose the capacity to make those decisions yourself.

Spread your investments to minimise risk and make your income stream last as long as you do OUTSIDE super, there is a bewildering number of investments on offer. You need to find a mix of investments that will fit your needs. Security should be at the top of your mind. You will have greater security if you diversify your investments. You might need your money to last for 20 years or more so it’s good to have investments that will at least keep pace with inflation. You may also need a reliable, long-term income stream. Consider: 1. Diversifying your retirement investments. 2. Capital growth investments. 3. Interest-bearing accounts and term deposits. 4. Managed funds. Diversifying your retirement investments. A key rule to investing in retirement is to diversify. This is even more important

for retirees - if you lose money it will be hard to replace. Some retirees have been devastated because they put all their money in one investment. They lost their life savings when that company went bankrupt, had a run of bad luck or the promoter turned out to be a crook. See diversification for more details. Capital growth investments Capital growth investments, such as property and shares, are good if you want to invest your money for the long term (more than seven years). These investments will generally increase in value over time. Of course, they can also fall in value from time to time, as the global financial crisis showed. Growth investments will hopefully also pay dividends. You can

use these as income, or reinvest them for further growth. Shares and property may be purchased directly. An easier way is to invest in managed funds that own shares or property. Shares A strong portfolio of blue chip shares can deliver good returns. They are more flexible investments than property as they can be bought and sold in small parcels. Owning shares also has tax benefits. However, share markets are volatile. The value of a share can drop dramatically in a few hours and companies can go broke overnight. This can be daunting for new or nervous investors. The Australian Securities Exchange and the Australian Investors Association offer investing courses. Seek financial advice before

investing. Investment properties Many people invest in residential property to boost their wealth. You can take advantage of capital gains and there are tax benefits arising from negative gearing and depreciation allowances, especially if you are in the higher tax brackets. However, people in retirement generally will not buy an investment property as their main investment. It is poor diversification. You could lose seriously if property prices fall in that area, if the property is vacant or if tenants don’t pay their rent. If you need money you can’t sell part of a property, and you can’t sell it quickly at a top price. See property for more information. Interest-bearing accounts and term deposits

These accounts are a good way to earn money for daily living expenses and emergencies. There are no entry and exit fees and your cash is easily accessible. You are sure of getting your money back, plus any interest. However, you will have to pay fees if you want to get out of a term deposit early. However, there are no capital gains or tax benefits and the interest you earn may not be enough to keep up with inflation. Interest-bearing savings accounts and term deposits will generally earn you less money in the long term than property or shares. You should spend some time researching online savings, transaction and term deposit accounts to compare different products. Managed funds If you are interested in a diversified mix of

investments but aren’t sure where to start, or would rather leave the hard work to experienced people, you may want to consider investing in managed funds. There are many types of funds, fee structures and investment managers. Do your research before you dive in. Retirees need to be careful about mortgage funds and property funds. Although these have been successful in the past, many people have recently burnt their fingers. See managed funds for more information. Think carefully about your investment strategy as it will affect the income you receive in retirement. Reduce risk by spreading your money in different types of investments. Consider getting financial advice before you start investing. SENE01Z01MA - V1

SENIORS

CLASSIFIEDS

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REVIEWS

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Indigenous heroes’ stories celebrated THERE are few Aboriginal icons in White Australia history. From the explorer to the pioneer, the swagman to the drover’s wife, with a few bushrangers for good measure, Europeans play all the leading roles. A rare exception is the redoubtable tracker. With skills passed down over millennia, trackers could trace the movements of people across vast swathes of country. Celebrated as saviours of lost children and disoriented adults, and finders of missing livestock, they were also cursed by robbers on the run. Trackers live in the collective memory as one of the few examples of Aboriginal people’s skills being sought after in colonial society. In NSW alone, more than a thousand Aboriginal men and a smaller number of women toiled for authorities across the state after 1862. This book tells the often unlikely stories of trackers including Billy Bogan, Jimmy Governor, Tommy Gordon, Frank Williams and Alec Riley. Through his work on native title claims, historian Michael Bennett realised that the role of trackers – and how they moved between two worlds – has been largely unacknowledged. His important book reveals that their work grew out of traditional society and was sustained by the vast family networks that endure

Austen is moving with times

Doggone insightful look at life

to this day. Pathfinders brings the skilled and diverse work of trackers not only to the forefront of law enforcement history but to the general shared histories of black and white Australia. Professor John Maynard said the book charted an important though largely

overlooked area of the country’s history. “Aboriginal trackers hold a mythical yet obscure presence in the history of the continent. Bennett weaves back into the nation’s historical narrative these Aboriginal heroes and heroines,’’ he said.

Professor Maynard is a Worimi Aboriginal man from the Port Stephens region of NSW. He is a director at the Wollotuka Institute of Aboriginal Studies at the University of Newcastle and chair of indigenous history. RRP $34.99.

SENIORS

ALREADY an international bestseller, Hans-Olav Thyvold’s Good Dogs Don’t Make it to the South Pole has now been translated into English. It’s been touted as the wisest, funniest and most inspiring book on ageing and friendship written by a dog you’ll ever read. The best thing you can aspire to in this world is company. Whether it’s for pleasure or pain, a crowning or an execution: everything is better with company. The major, a World War II veteran, breathes his last. Watching over him are his wife and his faithful companion, Tassen, the story’s narrator, who is, by his own admission, a couch potato and a one-man dog. “You might say it all went to hell with Mrs Thorkildsen, but you know what? It could have been worse, because Mrs Thorkildsen had me to keep her company. “And I had her. That’s what we had in common, her and me, what bound us together. We were company.’’

TIME Traveller’s Wife meets Persuasion in this charming story of love, friendship and passion – Jane Austen timetravels to the modern day and learns that the search for true love is never simple. Jane in Love is the debut novel from screenwriter and filmmaker Rachel Givney. After reading Emma as a teenager, Givney became fascinated by Jane Austen. She was shocked to find that the woman who had written such beautiful love stories had never found love herself and that this seemed to be the case for many other female writers. This later became the inspiration for Jane in Love. When 28-year-old Jane Austen enlists the help of a matchmaker, she gets a lot more than she bargained for. Jane accidentally timetravels to modern-day England and finds herself on the set of an adaptation of Northanger Abbey. Jane is thrilled to learn she has become a famous author and is determined to return to her own time to fulfil her destiny, until she meets siblings Sofia and Fred Wentworth. RRP $32.99

Published by Allen & Unwin. RRP $29.99.

Books bind women in journey of discovery MEET Ros from Sydney, Adele from Adelaide, Judy from Mandurah and Simone from Hobart, who are connected by books and as they discover, also by life. A Month of Sundays brings together these four very different women who for 10 years are now the remaining members of an online book club. All of them are in their 60s. They are meeting for the first time in person. Their time together helps them to peel back by layers

the weaknesses and strengths of each of them. As they spend a month in a house in the Southern Highlands of NSW relaxing, talking and discovering each other through a selection of books, relationships break and heal, are discovered and cemented. There’s no time to settle into complacency as the reader joins the women for their “holiday’’. Byrski cleverly builds up and breaks down the reader’s perception of each

character. It’s easy to connect with each of the women. Ros is angular and gutsy, Adele is simply complicated, Judy has a future she needs help to find and gentle Simone is a surprise. A Month of Sundays is the type of novel you have to force yourself to put down, at least for a night. It’s an enjoyable and relatable read. It’s Australian author Liz Byrski’s 10th novel. She is a writer and broadcaster with more than 40 years’

experience in the British and Australian media. In the ’90s Byrski was a broadcaster and executive producer with ABC Radio in Perth and later an adviser to a West Australian Government minister. She now lectures in professional and creative writing at Curtin University of Technology in Perth, and has a PhD in writing with a focus on feminist popular fiction. Published by Pan Macmillan. RRP $32.99 SENE01Z01MA - V1

PUZZLES

\\FEBRUARY, 2020

JIGGERED

3/8

The challenge is to rearrange a crossword which has been broken into 25 sections. One letter has been given to get you started. Work out which 3x3 square fits in with that letter and write in the letters. You can also shade the black squares if you find it helpful. After completing the first 3x3 area, work out which square joins on to it, and continue until you have made a complete crossword.

A N O N I N G

B R E L A E R

A U G K S K I

P E R A D E D

R U L M

T O O A P I T

G I A S C I

I C U M M A N G A M P W O N

D E S O E N O D

A A R F

T R O P X

R O E D D E

N P E C E

W R I K E M H

F T E D T C

T E D E E R I N

M E N E R T

T W W I N A N E N F S E

A D O E C R

M B A N T

I E N D

R M G S

Across 1. Seem (6) 5. Fixate on something (6) 9. Piled (6) 10. Occur unexpectedly (4,2) 11. Naked (4) 12. Slaughter (8) 14. Logic (6) 16. Unsullied (6) 19. Abyss (8) 21. Ran away (4) 22. Innate (6) 23. Physician (6) 24. Break away (6) 25. Stop doing something (6)

Down 2. Introduction (7) 3. Put into words (7) 4. Basics (9) 6. Hurtful remarks (5) 7. Assumes (7) 8. Highest (7) 13. Triumphed (9) 14. Rebounds (7) 15. Harsh, biting (7) 17. Has an inﬂuence on (7) 18. Shakes (7) 20. Rectify (5)

starts with J, the six-letter solution starts with K, and so on.

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

SUDOKU

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

F U S S E D Q C A T A R A C T

A N N U H G N I R I M O V O D

T Z E S T Y Z S C O O T E R D

E I P H O J G F E K E K H G A

S P R I G O O W D M B A S I C

O D E W E E S K H L A Q Y H R

R I F L E B H A V E B E I M E

E M I N H K E G I B P Q J N T

A Z N E R I O T A Y A M U S E

L M E B U W O D L L R T N P N

M I D P O I N T R C A N C A N

T N V T V S E J P O K Y T A Y

R A D I A N C E S K E N U R E

V N O W L V K Y A L E O R L P

C E N T X E S C O R T T E N D

BLACKOUT

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

All puzzles ©

The Puzzle Company

D P

PRAMS, QUOTeR, ReGALIA, SMOULDeR, TOLeRANCe.

ALPHAGRAMS JIGGERED

I M P U G N

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

TRIO: keL

Across: 1. Appear 5. Obsess 9. Heaped 10. Crop up 11. Bare 12. Massacre 14. Reason 16. Chaste 19. Crevasse 21. Fled 22. Inbred 23. Doctor 24. Secede 25. Desist. Down: 2. Preface 3. express 4. Rudiments 6. Barbs 7. expects 8. Supreme 13. Succeeded 14. Recoils 15. Acerbic 17. Affects 18. Tremors 20. Amend.

QUICK CROSSWORD

TODAY: Good 16 Very Good 22 Excellent 27

T W A N E F S F T E D T C A N O N I N G E E R S T R O E D

I D E R E A I E F I N L E E K I S H O A T V I A E A P A M J U S R E T E

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

How many words of four letters or more can you make? Each letter must be used only

TRIO

SUDOKU

A N

ReARRANGe reran

RAMPS TORQUE Solve the anagrams. Each solution is a one-word anagram ALGERIA of the letters beside it, and the ﬁve solutions are sequential. For OLD SERUM example, if the ﬁve-letter solution NO TREACLE

WORD GO ROUND

T O O T N A P R O I T X N G I I A S C E N I R A D O P A E M D C R A M I A C I A R A N F W O N T E D R E E M R I N G S

ALPHAGRAMS

V1 - SENE01Z01MA

E E R S T

SOLUTIONS BLACKOUT

I I

QUICK CROSSWORD

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

SENIORS

COMING SOON

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WEDNESDAY, 26 FEBRUARY 2020

TIME:

10:00AM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11:30AM (NSW TIME)

VENUE:

TWIN TOWNS, 2 WHARF STREET, TWEED HEADS

Are you ready to live a whole new life in the idyllic Tweed region? Join us to learn all about our newest over-50s lifestyle resort, GemLife Tweed Waters, at a presentation by GemLife Director & CEO, Adrian Puljich. Discover what will be on offer at this unique coastal resort, meet the team, and take the opportunity to ask questions.

CONFIRM YOUR ATTENDANCE AT

gemlife.com.au/tweedinfo SENE01Z01MA - V1