Northern NSW, May 2019 by seniors

May, 2019

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MAY, 2019// SENIORS

Positive living choices

INDEX 3 6 13 20 22 24 27

News – Muster up for Primex Talk n thoughts Wanderlust Wellbeing Living Community Group Guide Puzzles

Ideas for present and future living

Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor WELCOME to our May edition. This month, we celebrate hairdresser Wendy Gunn and the passion for her work which has led to being recognised with a prestigious award. I thought her story, so full enthusiasm and positive attitude, was a great way to kick off the month. However, it’s election month and time to think about the improvements we want or need and how our politicians are responding to these issues. Our Talk ‘n’ Thoughts topic brings to light the issues that in one way or another are more relevant to the situation of older people. This article highlights the need for action in areas such as internet access, dental treatments and affordable housing together with the proposal of a special tribunal dedicated to deal with issues to do with seniors. The subject of accommodation style is the topic Tracey Johnstone has investigated in our monthly double page feature – and there’s plenty to talk about. New architectural/building ideas are being generated

and implemented around the world and Australia has joined the push to come up with innovative and viable housing solutions. From professionals to community minded groups, there is a focus on coming up with a range of creative alternatives to accommodate more healthy, happy lifestyles. Our Wellbeing pages include practical stories on caring for our health – with great info on new cancer research and what it means for breast cancer patients along with tips for happy feet so that you can do lots of very beneficial walking. I believe that our community notes pages are also part of the wider wellbeing section, so thanks goes to groups who send us community news each month to share with other readers. Enjoy the read. Gail

CONTACT US General Manager Geoff Crockett – 0413 988 333 geoff.crockett@news.com.au Editor Gail Forrer – 1300 880 265 gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Executive Sue Germany – 0408 286 539 sue.germany@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Online Get your news online at www.seniorsnews.com.au Advertising, editorial and distribution enquiries Phone: 1300 880 265 or (07) 5435 3200 Email: advertising@seniorsnewspaper.com.au or editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Location: 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore 4558 Website: www.seniorsnews.com.au Subscriptions Only $39.90 for one year (12 editions) including GST and postage anywhere in Australia. Please call our circulations services on 1300 361 604 and quote “Northern NSW Seniors Newspaper”. The Seniors Newspaper is published monthly and distributed free in northern New South Wales and southeast Queensland. The Seniors newspaper stable includes Toowoomba, Wide Bay, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Northern NSW, Coffs and Clarence and Central Coast publications. Published by News Corp Australia. Printed by News Corp Australia, Yandina. Opinions expressed by contributors to Seniors Newspapers are not necessarily those of the editor or the owner/publisher and publication of advertisements implies no endorsement by the owner/publisher.

Responsibility for election material in this paper is taken by Gail Forrer, cnr Mayne Road & Campbell Street, Bowen Hills, QLD 4006.

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KING OF COUNTRY: Slim Dusty grew up as David Gordon Kirkpatrick at Nulla Nulla Creek.

IF YOU are about to hook up the van for new adventures, you might like to know that two great Aussie icons have come together and are celebrating in June. The Slim Dusty Centre in Kempsey has welcomed Hello Koalas’ Nulla to its impressive display of memorabilia around the man known as Australia’s King of Country Music. As fans will know, Nulla Nulla Creek is where Slim (then David Gordon Kirkpatrick) grew up

dreaming of one day becoming a country music singer. Nulla, by Kempsey Aboriginal artist Elwyn Toby, is one of the 67 one-metre-high individually designed and painted koalas that make up Port Macquarie’s Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail – with another set to be revealed at June’s Hello Koalas Festival. They raise awareness of the crisis threatening our iconic koalas, the need for conservation, and highlight the spectacular

destinations, scenery and towns throughout the Port Macquarie-Hastings region. From June 6-9 the Hello Koalas Festival celebrates all things koala, starting with the Caring For Our Koalas and Our Environment Symposium on the Thursday before entering the long weekend of fun. The conference covers koala conservation, latest research, environmental solutions and nature-based tourism. Highlights on the

festival program are a Rock ’n’ Roll Dance Party on Friday, Cars for Koalas Show and Shine at Westport Park on Saturday, along with the Foreshore Markets and art making workshops, and Family Day at Douglas Vale Historic Homestead and Vineyard on the Sunday. Then, on June 13, it’s Slim Dusty’s birthday, and SDC has a program of music and celebration planned for “Slim Day”. The Slim Dusty Museum features objects

and images from the Kirkpatrick family’s own extensive archive, as well as contributions from friends and fans. The centre is open from 9.30am-4pm daily except around Christmas, New Year and Australia Day. Check public holiday times. Phone (02) 6562 6533 or go to slimdustycentre.com.au. The Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail is free to explore all year round. Phone 0416 641 482 or go to hellokoalas.com.

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Primex a great day out

More than a trade show – a friendly social gathering Tania Phillips

CASINO’S Bennett family are no strangers to breeding cattle and no strangers to exhibiting them either. Doug Bennett of Little Valley Braford Stud, just north of Casino, will have his cattle on display at the 35th annual Norco Primex Primary Industries Expo at Casino from May 16–18, just like they’ve been almost every year. Little Valley Braford Stud, at Stratheden, just north of Casino, is celebrating 50 years of braford breeding this year and has been exhibiting at Primex since 1986 – a year after it started. Stud owner Doug and son Cameron will again be part of this year’s event. “We were the first cattle display at Primex,” said Doug Bennett, with more than a hint of pride. “We have been here (at Primex) ever since. “We have found that Primex is a great way of profiling what we do.” Doug’s parents, Wally and Joy Bennett, bought the property at Stratheden in 1955. They launched the braford stud in 1969. “This year we are celebrating 50 years of braford breeding,” Doug said. “Cameron is part of the business – the third generation – and he has three boys. “So, the future is looking pretty good.” Norco Primex director Bruce Wright said the Bennetts were an integral part of the “Primex family”.

FATHER AND SON: Doug and Cameron Bennett at the annual expo. “I know all four generations of the Bennetts,” he said. “There are a lot of new features of Primex, but we are also proud of our history and the strong friendships that have been created along the way. “Primex is more than a trade show, it is also a massive, friendly social gathering.” Wright said while the event remained at its core a primary industries expo, the appeal in 2019 was to almost every demographic and age group. “This is our 35th Primex and in recent years we have included numerous features that make it attractive to almost everyone,” he said. “Many of these features make Primex especially appealing to older people – free parking, an

Primex director Bruce Wright. increased amount of seating around the entire precinct, lots of food outlets, a miniature train which will carry people

around the whole site and a continuous shuttle bus to drop-off points in Casino. “We have worked hard

to ensure that people of all ages don’t just have one or two reasons to come to Primex, but five or six.

“One of the big success stories of the event has been the Paddock to Plate Pavilion, which will be even bigger this year. “Here you can see the amazing products that are growing in this region. “We will also have top chefs using the produce to prepare gourmet meals. “But there is so much more to see and do.” Norco Primex will be held from May 16–19 at Casino. Gates open each day at 9am and close at 4pm. Tickets can be purchased at the gate, however visitors are urged to buy tickets online so there is no waiting in a queue. For tickets and all information relating to Primex, go to primex.net.au.

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Defying age with plenty Forget the number, it’s about doing what you love at any age

‘‘

Tracey Johnstone

BRILLIANT RECOGNITION: Wendy Gunn, accompanied by her hair model, receives the prestigious 2019 L’Oreal Professionnel Style & Colour Trophy. Photo: Christian Fournier

CHAMPAGNE corks popped in Paris when Australian hair colourist Wendy Gunn was recently announced winner of the 2019 L’Oreal Professionnel Style & Colour Trophy with her Rising Sun look. The pro-age industry leader has been on her feet since age 15. Now at 70 she is still putting in 60 hours a week at her Brisbane city business, Ink for Hair. “I am living my life passionately,” Ms Gunn said. “Also, I am passionate about what I do and I am good at it. “I am not about to curl up; I am not about to buy my last car or my last TV.” The road to the international L’Oreal trophy win was arduous. It started with a photograph of her work being sent to judges in Australia who then determined the top 20 in

The pro-age industry leader has been on her feet since age 15. each state. Next it was “doing” the model’s hair, dress and make-up in real-time for the top three in the state. After that it was on to the Australian titles in Melbourne where Ms Gunn took out the national award in early 2018. She created her look using strategically placed apricot and peach colours which resulted in a rose gold tone in her model’s hair. In France, she had to do it all again in real-time and then be judged against 32 other countries. “What the competition

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of style made me do is realise that I don’t have to be limited by how old I am,” Ms Gunn said. Back on the floor of her business and with a full week of bookings ahead, she said she had one of her three daughters back by her side after 10 years out on her own. She also has two 20-something juniors who are in on her journey of exploring the latest trends and techniques. “If you want to be good at anything, you have got to be prepared to constantly learn,” she said. Doing a make-over is one of Ms Gunn’s greatest challenges and joys. “Someone who is a bit older and set in a time-warp; just changing how they look changes how they feel,” she said. “My philosophy is what you wear starts with your hair.” This very direct woman doesn’t look at the age, she looks at the person. Recently she turned around an old friend’s attitude to living with some life-changing advice. The friend said she had

been looking at over-50s hairstyles for herself. “I told her I was the wrong hairdresser for her because that’s not how I look at my clients,” Ms Gunn said. “I look at body shape, face shape and lifestyle. I don’t look at the age of someone.” Ms Gunn’s age certainly doesn’t define her. It’s just a mindset. “I am having a ball,” she said. “My grandmother said you always have to have something to look forward to.” So, she looks after herself with weekly massages, facials and regular visits to the podiatrist, and switching off from her dynamic lifestyle by going to good restaurants and spending quiet time learning oil painting. Ms Gunn suggested she should write an inspirational book titled Avoid Retirement and Stay Alive. “It’s probably not what the Seniors want to hear, but I’m about whatever I do in life,” she added. “I have got to love what I do and I will keep doing it while I love it.”

Petula Clark tours Australia AT 86, legendary singing sensation Petula Clark is not ready to “sit back and grow radishes”. “Maybe one day,” she joked from her London bolt-hole as she prepared to pack her bags. Petula was about to embark on a tour of Australia that started in Cairns on April 27, ending in Perth on May 18, and including stops in Caloundra, Rockhampton, Maryborough, Brisbane, Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney, Port Macquarie and Adelaide. “I’ve got nothing against radishes but I’m not ready yet,” she laughed. Petula Clark OBE – the woman with the powerful voice who has had worldwide hits with Downtown, I Know a Place, Colour My World, Don’t Sleep in the Subway and I Couldn’t Live Without Your Love – is doing anything but slowing down. She started her professional career as an entertainer on BBC Radio, making her film debut in the Maurice

DOWN UNDER: Petula Clark back on stage. Elvey-directed comedy Medal For The General in 1944. Her film credits have since included Vice Versa with Anthony Newley (directed by Peter Ustinov), The Card with Alec Guinness, and Finian’s Rainbow with Fred Astaire (a role that was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress).

Over the years she has also had lead roles in major theatrical productions such as Sound Of Music, Blood Brothers and Sunset Boulevard. Later this year she will return to the West End for the first time in 22 years as part of the brand-new Cameron McIntosh production of Mary Poppins at the

Prince Edward Theatre. “It came out of the blue,” she explained at the time she was at her Geneva home and planning her tour to Australian. “I got a call from London asking me to join the production to play the Bird Woman. “I’ve never seen Mary Poppins, though of course I know the music,” Petula said. While this is her first appearance in Mary Poppins, Petula Clark is no stranger to musicals, although a one-song performance a night is a long way from her last on the West End 22 years ago. Back then she had centre stage, carrying the mammoth musical Sunset Boulevard. But don’t think this reduced workload means Petula is slowing down – the octogenarian is considering recording another album in London. But first there is, her first love – performing on stage in front of an audience with a band – , something she has been doing for more than six decades.

MAY, 2019// SENIORS

Talk 'n' thoughts NATIONAL Seniors group has released its election concerns for 2019. In short, these are the issues that affect older Australians. ■ A fair go for pensioners The pension simply doesn’t provide enough for older Australians to live even a basic but decent life. More than half a million people rely on the pension as their sole source of income. A single older person reliant on the pension survives on an annual income of around $24,000; a couple around $36,000. We know many people in this situation are struggling. Older renters are particularly hard hit, especially those who live alone.

Election concerns While many older Australians own their own home, about 15 per cent do not. These older people have not been able to secure the Australian dream and must seek shelter through the private rental market. Unfortunately, that market is often unaffordable. Rental costs have increased significantly over the past 10 years. While rents increased 29 per cent over that period, Commonwealth Rent Assistance increased by 23 per cent. This exposed older people to higher costs, lower living standards and increased risk of homelessness. ■ Internet Without access to the internet, older people will

National Seniors name the issues that matter

be disadvantaged. The government’s Digital Transformation Strategy aims to have all government services available through online channels by 2025. However, many people simply can’t afford it. Older people are also faced with the prospect of being forced to sign up to the more expensive NBN services simply to continue accessing a landline even if they don’t want or need the internet. ■ Dentistry Dentistry is an essential part of health care, yet it’s not treated that way. While dental care is essential to health and wellbeing, the cost of basic care has been

largely privatised. Those able to afford private health insurance receive rebates when accessing private dental services; those without either foot the bill themselves or rely on overstretched and underfunded public dental services. Those in aged care have almost no access to dental care. It is abhorrent that a country with a first-rate public health system like Australia has neglected this vital issue. ■ The solutions Establish an Independent Age Pension Tribunal. An Independent Age Pension Tribunal is the first step to a fairer retirement income system

that meets the needs of all Australians. An Independent Age Pension Tribunal would take responsibility for calculating a fair and adequate pension rate. It would work out the pension rate and any supplements based on need and circumstance. Its decisions would be accepted without debate in the same way monetary policy is set by the Reserve Bank. The Tribunal would hand down its determination every November to provide enough time to be accounted for in the May Budget. Increase the maximum rate of Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA). Increasing the

maximum rate of the CRA is an important way to address housing poverty in Australia. Provide a subsidy to connect to the NBN or another appropriate internet service. The internet is an essential service. Older Australians should be connected. Expand the provision of basic dental care for pensioners, including those in aged care. A universal dental health care scheme, based on the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), could provide pensioners without private health cover an annual subsidy to help maintain their dental health. It would be especially useful to those living in aged care.

Dedicated to housing changes BARBARA Squires has seen important changes during the years she has been working to look for contemporary housing options for older Australians. In the past 10 years since this change-maker fought a hard battle to introduce into Australia the Apartments for Life (AFL) housing model, an evolution in thinking around housing options has been happening. While working as general manager ageing for the Benevolent Society, Ms Squires threw herself into making the AFL model a reality.

Driving her passion for the project was her deep insight into the issues of housing after nearly 40 years working with older Australians. “It’s a disgrace,” she said. “Affordable housing for the whole of Australia is in such a dreadful state, but particularly for older people. Older renters are an incredibly disadvantaged group. “It’s a cause that is dear to my heart.” The AFL model, based on the work of the Dutch Humanitas Foundation, which has 15 sites in Rotterdam, proposed making it possible for

older people to remain in their self-contained accommodation, which was designed to accommodate changing needs, even when their health declined and they required increased health and home support. Underpinning the AFL approach was encouraging older people to remain in control of their lives, be in proximity to critical services and be able to continue to participate in their community. A site in Sydney’s Bondi was identified for the mixed social and private housing, but then urban

planning issues ultimately made the project economically infeasible and local resident opposition was the final unscalable hurdle. “Things have changed, mercifully, and moved on,” Ms Squires said. “One of the best outcomes of the project was that it actually got people in the aged care and retirement housing sector thinking. It challenged them a lot.” Up until then it was considered the norm that when an older person needed more care they were moved into low care and then high care.

OPTIONS: The former Benevolent Society general manager of ageing Barbara Squires was an early changemaker in housing for older Australians. “It’s much more an accepted concept now that you shouldn’t have to move; it shouldn’t be an automatic assumption that you have to move when you become frailer,” she said. “Increasingly there are

projects around that have more of the (AFL) elements because most of the work we did on that planning was around in 2010.” Her hope is to see older Australians taking better control of their lives.

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Brand new ideas to shape Tracey Johnstone THE world of ageing is evolving in many different ways compared to the experience of previous generations, particularly with living choices. For so long we had the choice of either ageing at home or selling up and moving into a retirement village. But that is changing, driven by the baby boomers who have an appetite for living choices that are contemporary and apply across the generations. Sustainability, affordability, fighting homelessness, social connection, shared economy, ageing in place, control of the living space and communal are the buzzwords of the new housing options. Some of these options are deliberative, small-scale, collaborative and co-operative models, and build-to-rent. And these are only the current models, several of which are already in place in northern Europe and in the US. Expect more choices as social innovators, financial institutions, public organisations and government agencies all come together over changes to financing and legislation to allow these evolving models to become part of the mainstream offerings. Another barrier is getting older Australians to accept this evolution to co-housing living choices. University of Technology Sydney’s Research

INNOVATIVE DESIGN: The recently completed intergenerational co-housing Nightingale Housing project # 1, which is located in Brunswick, Melbourne. Photo: Peter Clarke Director and former architect Caitlin McGee said that when seniors heard the term co-housing, they tended to think of it as the “extreme end of spectrum”. “It’s not a commune,” she explained. Co-housing has been a fringe movement in Australia up to now, but the examples are getting more mainstream.” Collaborative housing Ms McGee said collaborative housing could be alternative communities and it could be mainstream. It could incorporate several generations or be seniors only, and could be owner-occupied, rental or a combination. “Typically, you have a

slightly more compact home in lieu of the greater shared facilities,” she said. “There is a whole spectrum of these developments that essentially have two principles – they integrate more sharing and they are about resident participation rather than speculative housing where a developer builds and then sells.” Affordability in construction and in the cost of living are key drivers in these models. Sharing of garden tools, social areas, the laundry, grandkids’ play equipment through to car sharing and achieving water and energy efficiencies, and even a shared visitor overnight accommodation

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rather than having a guest bedroom within the home, can all be options. “It means apartments are delivered at a lower cost, typically between 15 or 30 per cent less than equivalent properties in that area,” Ms McGee said. Building close to shops and a transport hub are also an important part of these models. It’s also about residents having control over the residential design and ultimately its management, and about having a sense of community and integrating with the wider neighbourhood. The following models are underpinned by the fundamental principles of

co-housing and layered with a range of unique characteristics. Nightingale Housing Nightingale #1 is the only known completed co-housing build so far in Australia. It’s an intergenerational, resident-run, owner-occupied, 20-unit block in Brunswick, Melbourne. “The model is founded on three basic principles – environmental, social and financial sustainability,” Nightingale Community Engagement Leader Dominica Watt said. Savings are achieved from the use of clean-energy services and low-cost utility and building costs which help with long-term

affordability. The units are sold at a cost which includes a capped 15 per cent return to the initial project investors. “Construction savings are shared with homeowners, who meet each other and the designers, well prior to the building being built and after they have been successful in the ballot.” Following the deliberative design approach, owners are intimately involved in the common area design process. “It gives residents the chance to work together and we know that is a really important key in creating community,” Ms Watt said. “By the time they move in, everyone knows each other and it feels like a safe, connected environment.” Nightingale #1 includes value-aligned commercial tenants on the bottom floor while the top floor has a shared garden and laundry facilities. There are resale rules and the prices are tethered to the local market. Deliberative design AGEncy is a resident-led model where a group of Sydney friends and acquaintances, aged from 54 to 71, are working together to address their future living needs. Co-founder Keryn Curtis, 54, said it would be like living in a normal owner-occupied apartment building. “But also having a relationship with the people living in the

SENIORS \\MAY, 2019

NEWS

present and future living building and shared amenities,” Ms Curtis said. The group plans to be the developer of an inner-city site. Eight people have agreed to be the project funders, which they hope will deliver 12-14 apartments. “Everyone is part of the co-housing group,” Ms Curtis said. “It’s an intentional community; you have to take part. “From the ground up, you decide what you do and don’t want to share.” The end result is a development based on the individuals’ needs and affordability, not on what a developer decides is the market need. Village approach IRT plans to have in place within about two years a new retirement village at Kanahooka, NSW. It will include in one area of the village nine one-bedroom, self-contained, owner-occupied units of about 50sq m each. “We were looking at other options for downsizers with the idea of giving them a slightly different mix of private and public spaces,” IRT Head of Strategy & Innovation Rob Bruce said. “The residents can set their own agenda within that space and collaborate on whatever they like to whether it’s art projects to car spaces, cooking together in an oversized kitchen, watching movies together, all of which will help solve some of the problems of social isolation and loneliness.” Small-scale co-housing This model is based on renovation or rebuilding of an existing home or block of units to achieve an increased number of residents on the site, Ms McGee explained. “They could informally

look after each other which might reduce the need for formal care,” she said. “If care is required, at least they will be co-located and it might be cheaper or easier.” CHASM in Maleny in Queensland is developing a version of small-scale co-housing to give its older residents the choice to remain living within their existing community. “Ageing in place is a crucial thing,” CHASM co-founder Marg McKenzie, 65, said. Whether they do retrofit or new build, each of CHASM’s designs considers ageing needs. Growing property prices and Airbnb has made several of Maleny’s former rental properties unavailable.

‘‘

It’s more a collective of people who share a vision of how to live together “People were finding they were being priced out of town and having to move away to find somewhere cheaper to live,” Ms McKenzie said. “The community were strongly in favour of co-housing as long as the model provides a combination of private and shared space. “It’s not a commune. It’s more a collective of people who share a vision of how to live together.” The CHASM team is encouraging its community members to understand they can create a secondary dwelling. “If we can get people in the town to agree to and

ALTERNATIVE LIVING: CHASM’s Marg McKenzie and Julia Peddie, with Zonta’s Margie Richter (centre) receive a donation from Zonta towards its Age Friendly Project. Photo: CHASM can afford to do that, and then rent it out, then you are providing affordable rental housing for these people who are in housing crisis,” Ms McKenzie added. Co-operative community The residents of this affordable housing model, who are often long-term tenants, have control of the decision-making on the management of their environment. In Cabramatta, Common Equity NSW is developing affordable, ageing in place housing specifically for older Vietnamese and their extended families. The model will also create opportunities to maximise savings in transport, energy and food costs through various sharing and pooling processes. Another of its projects is Newcastle Cohousing (NewCoh). It’s focused on achieving a self-managed, intergenerational housing

This is the house style the CHASM group is looking to purchase for its small-scale co-housing pilot project. group which combines private living and community sharing. It’s in its early design stage, but the plan is to allow for both rental and owner-occupied apartments and town houses. Both projects are aimed at small self-contained residences, but with several communal areas set up to encourage sharing and social interaction.

Build-to-rent The Property Council of Australia CEO Ken Morrison said build-to-rent developments would be owned by institutional investors looking for income, such as super funds, and focused on tenancies of much longer than 12 months. These complexes will provide affordable intergenerational housing in an area that is well serviced, and where not

all amenities are built into the apartment. “There is a much bigger focus on common facilities,” Mr Morrison said. “It’s more than just a place to live; they feel part of the community. The economics of this makes it possible because of the single ownership and the motivation of the owner-manager to keep the tenants happy which makes them highly motivated to continue with their leases.” Sydney’s Mirvac and Melbourne’s Salter and Grocon groups are all interested in the concept. On the Gold Coast, the 2500 Commonwealth Games Athletes’ Village units are being transformed into this model. When? Anyone interested in these housing options should “watch this space” and start doing their research now. It’s a rapidly changing space.

COTA Home Options support

DECISION MAKING: Make your home where your heart is. Photo: Purestock

THE COTA NSW Home Options Information Service assists people in NSW to weigh up their housing options. This service aims to help people decide which of the different types of home options will work for them in later life. They can assist in helping to locate resources available to make housing decisions by analysing requirements relative to the merits of each housing option This service can be of

assistance in helping you understand whether you should move and what kind of home you can afford. How you can assess which home option will allow you to work, socialise, or access transport and services in a way that meets your needs. You can discuss what kind of housing options are available to you and the positive and negative features that might be relevant to you as you age.

■ Questions that might be asked include: ✰ Why am I considering a housing change? ✰ Can I improve my current home with assistance or modifications? ✰ Am I moving to be closer to family and friends? ✰ Will all the facilities I require for health and recreation be available? ✰ How to finance it? Is now a good time to sell? Future implications?

✰ Have you discussed the decision with your family and trusted friends? Received legal and financial advice ✰ If accessing equity, have you provided for future needs? ✰ What about upgrades, moves, increased care? To get help with your housing options, call the COTA NSW Information Service: 02 9286 3860 or 1800 449 102 (regional NSW)

FEATURE

MAY, 2019// SENIORS

NATIONAL VOLUNTEERS WEEK – MAY 20-26

The Red Shirts

Volunteers make a different world NATIONAL Volunteer Week is the annual celebration to acknowledge the generous contribution of our nation’s volunteers. In celebration, Volunteering Australia is pleased to announce the theme for National Volunteer Week 2019:

“Making a world of difference.” Volunteering Australia stresses the importance of safe and effective volunteering, and the need for volunteer programs to be supported by data, best-practice resources and research.

VOLUNTEERING IS TIME WILLINGLY GIVEN FOR THE COMMON GOOD AND WITHOUT FINANCIAL GAIN.

THERE are around 500 people who wear a red volunteer shirt in support of the Lismore-based Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter, and they wear it with pride. The Lismore Service has an annual challenge to raise over $3.5 million and this would not be possible without the support of the dedicated and generous Rescue Helicopter Volunteers who help to run seven op shops, raffles, two volunteer support groups, help at major events, collect donation tins, assist with administration, cook at charity barbecues and much more. Our volunteers proudly keep the Rescue Helicopter flying 24/7 for our community and we are so thankful for the special women and men who enjoy the camaraderie and social benefits of volunteering for their service. This week is National Volunteers Week and we will be highlighting our unbelievably generous

Helpers create caring world WE ALL know volunteering helps those assisted by community organisations. Less well known are the personal benefits to volunteers themselves. Research by the peak body Volunteering Australia shows that volunteers are happier and healthier than those who do not volunteer – they even report sleeping better. But self-help isn’t the main motivator for the 1000-plus Vinnies shop volunteers whose efforts help improve the lives of countless people in need through the sale of donated clothing and household items.

Vinnies Murwillumbah shop volunteers Beryl Heanes and Pauline Dow with shoppers Naomi Lee and daughter Mahli Burdett. “National Volunteer Week is the ideal time to recognise their priceless contributions,” Andrew said. “This year’s Volunteer Week theme of ‘making a world of difference’ is

very appropriate. “Every volunteer hour makes a world of difference in the lives of people struggling to pay rent, put food on the family table, cope with rising electricity bills and provide the best they can for their children.” He said the most common feedback he hears from volunteers is that it is fun. “So many volunteers tell me that their time at Vinnies is their favourite part of the week.” To find out about volunteering at Vinnies, just visit your local shop or phone Andrew Green on 0428 977 454.

THANKS VINNIES VOLUNTEERS!

PROUD TO WEAR RED: Three of the 500 people who wear a red volunteer shirt in support of the Lismore-based Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter. volunteers. Since our early beginnings, volunteers have been integral to our operations, and in 2019 they remain an important part of who we are and what we do. Volunteers stand alongside our partners in NSW Ambulance and NSW Health, our supporters in the corporate sector and the community, to help us provide the best possible aeromedical search and rescue service for the people of Northern NSW. While our engineers, pilots, aircrew officers, NSW Ambulance paramedics and NSW health doctors deliver people to emergency and

provide medical care, the work of our volunteers makes it all possible. This week is about celebrating the important work of volunteers throughout Australia, so please if you see a volunteer in your community, say thank you. On behalf of our staff, board and regional advisory committee, I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to all of our volunteers, past and present. — Richard Jones OAM, Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter CEO If you are interested in volunteering, phone 1800 155 155.

We need your support

A huge THANK YOU to all of the wonderful Vinnies volunteers. Your dedication, commitment and pride in your work is amazing. Because of your service, thousands of disadvantaged and vulnerable people and families are assisted in your communities every year.

• Choose to Join us for one day a week, month, or year • Meet new people, have fun and learn new skills • Make a difference in your community

Join our red shirt team today. Call 1800 155 155 or email enquiries@rescuehelicopter.com.au to find out more. 6990446aa

If you are interested in joining Vinnies as a volunteer, please enquire in the shop.

Become a Rescue Helicopter Volunteer and help us to save lives!

1800 155 155 | helirescue.com.au

SENIORS \\MAY, 2019

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MAY, 2019// SENIORS

TRAVEL IDEAS

ROAR AND SNORE WITH THE LOUDEST

IT’S an unforgettable overnight experience at Sydney’s Taronga Zoo. During Roar and Snore you will get to take in the spectacular sight of the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge as the sun dips down and you drink in the views from the harbourside campsite, get up close to some of Taronga Zoo’s friendliest residents, dine in style at our delicious buffet dinner and breakfast, experience an exclusive night safari led by passionate keepers and guides, unwind in the comfortable safari-style tents while listening to the night sounds of the zoo and join in feeding time and close encounter sessions where you will form a special bond with the animals of Taronga Zoo. Grandchildren over five are welcome. Accommodation is in two or four-person tents. The all-weather, overnight program usually is run as: meeting time is 6.15pm, meet a creature at 7.15pm, dinner at 8pm, night safari at 9pm, unwind at campsite with dessert at 10pm before sleeping to the sounds of the zoo. Next morning, rise and shine at 6.45am, behind the scenes tour number 1 at 7.30am, behind the scenes tour number 2 at 8.15am, continental breakfast at 9am and check-out at 9.30am. For details and bookings, go to taronga.org.au or phone (02) 9969 2777.

ROCK THE BOAT

SUZI Quatro, Jon Stevens, Russell Morris and Ross Wilson accompanied by other legends will be on the Radiance of the Seas from November 24, 2020. Sailing from its new home port of Brisbane, the 2500-passenger ship will host the seven-night Rock the Boat cruise to New Caledonia. It will take “rockers” to Noumea and the Isle of Pines. The cruise offer includes artist signings, music workshops and dance lessons with concerts day and night. The cruise cost is from $2799 per person, twin-share. For more details, phone Cruise Express on 1300 766 537 or go to cruiseexpress.com.au.

STRETCH OUT AT LAKE MACQUARIE

CHOOSE serene or strenuous when you go on a walking weekend at Lake Macquarie.

CAMPING OUT: Taronga Zoo Roar and Snore is a great idea for grandparents and their grandkids, or for adventurous seniors. From the pristine coastline to rugged cliff tops, significant indigenous sites and the towering trees at the Watagans Mountains, you’ll feel a million miles away while walking in Lake Macquarie. Three of the best walks are: Stroll along If you are looking to combine a Sunday stroll with a good gossip with the girls, then Warners Bay is the place. The 6.2km walk is mostly flat, so suitable for all fitness levels. When you’ve returned to Warners Bay Esplanade and have coffee on your mind, you’ll have plenty of choices. Bring the binoculars A whale-watching hot spot, the picturesque 8.3km Caves Beach Coastal Walk which crosses the clifftops south from Caves Beach to secluded Pinny Beach in Wallarah National Park, is a beautiful walking moderate trail ideal for observing the northern migration between May and July. Have your hiking boots handy The Watagans Mountains is a hiking haven for seasoned walkers and is one of the region’s best-loved escapes. The 8km Watagan Trail is for experienced walkers as it is steep and challenging, boasts rainforest views with dramatic moss-covered walls, stops at historic heritage sites, brilliant birdwatching and spectacular vista across the Hunter Valley from the Hunter Lookout.

for between 10 and 15 solo travellers. They aim to create a safe travel experience and at a fair price. Single supplements are low and room sharing is out.

CRUISING COOKING

Bird painting by Xiao Lang

WILDLIFE CAMPING

IN 2020, Australia Zoo will open a 108-site camping ground with tent accommodation, caravan, RV powered sites, glamping-style tents and eco cabins. Camp Crocodile Hunter will open as part of the Australia Zoo 50th

Photo: National Museum of China

anniversary celebrations. Info: australiazoo.com.au.

SOLO GROUP TRAVEL

WHEN trying to find a travel companion becomes too hard, Two’s A Crowd is an option. The comp any organises small group, fully escorted tours

SEVEN Seas Splendor is offering appealing culinary experiences when it sets sail in February 2020. The ship will focus on destination dishes that bring aboard local ingredients and culinary traditions from where Seven Seas Splendor is sailing, and feature new curated Culinary Arts Kitchen classes. Designed as a specialised facility with 18 individual cooking stations, the kitchen will offer a range of 20 new culinary classes teaching professional techniques and recipes by master chef instructors. New classes vary from teaching seven methods to prepare seafood to exploring emerging fusion cuisines from around the world. Also on offer are Gourmet Explorer Tours which will deliuver epicurean adventures personally crafted by Regent’s Executive Chef & Director of Culinary Enrichment Kathryn Kelly. Guests can choose from a variety of optional tours that take them to local markets to find exotic spices, sample delicious wines at breathtaking estates and savour gourmet meals expertly prepared by

locally renowned chefs. Specific Gourmet Explorer Tours will be announced with all Seven Seas Splendor inaugural season destination experiences later this year. For more details, go RSSC.com or phone 1300 455 200.

TREASURES OF CALLIGRAPHY AND INK PAINTING

THE National Museum of Australia in Canberra has open until July 28 a free Australian-first exhibition from the prestigious National Museum of China (NMC). On display are Chinese art and calligraphy and featuring exquisite artworks that have never previously been seen in Australia. The Historical Expression of Chinese Art: Calligraphy and Painting from the National Museum of China features a sweeping 14-metre-wide animated digital experience, which brings historical figures to life in intricate moving detail. The exhibition consists of more than 100 objects from China and showcases the breadth and traditions of these art forms through the works of three Chinese modern artists. Intricate Chinese symbols painted with majestic strokes, golden fish jumping from crystal clear ponds, sweeping mountainous landscapes, blooming cherry blossoms and grand historical narratives feature in the stunning artworks.

SENIORS \\MAY, 2019

Top Qld station holidays

QUEENSLAND’S Outback is the birthplace of legends (Waltzing Matilda was first performed in Winton), it’s shaped a ‘fair go’ attitude (the first worker’s strike was in Barcaldine), and launched some of the nation’s most impressive events (Birdsville Races and Winton Vision Splendid). It’s also home to the best station stays in the land. Here are 10 of the top on offer.

riders, shearers and stockmen will descend on Cunnamulla for the Cunnamulla Fella Festival.

KILCOWERA STATION

NOONBAH STATION, VIA LONGREACH

“Fiery sunsets, dazzling stars, and breathtaking peace” is how owners Angus and Karen Emmott describe the 52,000ha beef cattle station that’s been in their family for four generations. Guests can camp at a secluded waterhole, or, sleep peacefully at the Old Schoolhouse, a renovated corrugated iron cottage where Angus and his siblings were schooled by Air. Visit noonbahstation. com.au. Tip: Stop here on the way to Winton’s Way out West Fest (April, just ask Angus and Karen about the secret back road to get to there faster).

BONUS DOWNS FARMSTAY, MARANOA

Get a true taste of station life and hear about farming practices straight from owners Lyle and Madonna Connolly. A tour of the quintessential grand homestead is a must-do before hitting a swag, the shearer’s shed or the jackaroos cottage for the night. Visit bonusdownsfarm stay.com.au. Tip: Just ‘down the road’ (120km) is Roma’s Easter in the Country in April and the Cobb & Co Festival in Surat in August (150km).

OUTBACK STAYS: An artesian bore in outback Queensland.

SHANDONVALE STATION, VIA BARCALDINE

Dust off your stereotypes (and your city clothes). This century-old station gets the gong as the fun capital of the farm scene thanks to the chance to go helimustering, catch a fresh water yabbie, and do a little bit of old-fashioned butchering. The four bedrooms in the 100-year-old shearers quarters offer queen beds, 1000-thread count sheets, a fully-functioning kitchen and a classic claw-foot bath. Visit shandonvale station.com.au. Tip: Close to Barcaldine and the Tree of Knowledge Festival, held in May.

MOBLE HOMESTEAD, QUILPIE

Join proud wool producers, the Rutledge family, at their home in Quilpie on a property that has been passed down through five generations. Choose from two huts, a homestead garden room, and a governesses quarters-come-cottage that literally floats above

Shandonvale Station heli-mustering sheep.

the waterhole, staring from $150 per person including dinner and breakfast. Tip: Spend a day at the Quilpie Diggers Races (May and September).

GILBERTON OUTBACK RETREAT

A tin shed on a property that’s almost the size of Laos is what you’ll find at Gilberton Outback Retreat, an 88,000sq km station that is home to 1200 head of cattle and one incredible guest cabin. This station was started in 1869 and has been passed down through seven generations. Guests can relax, get involved in station life, fossick for gold (hello good fortune!) or explore indigenous rock art located around the property. Gilberton Outback Retreat is four hours’ drive southwest of Cairns. Visit gilbertonoutback retreat.com.

WALLAROO OUTBACK RETREAT, NEAR CARNARVON

It’s a huge 71,000-acre cattle farm but that’s where the farm experience stops. At Wallaroo Outback Retreat guests trade shearers sheds for eight tepee tents (with real crisp linen and posturepedic beds), six bathrooms, two rustic firepits and an incredible timber lodge built from wood milled straight from the land. The retreat is the brainchild of farmers Pauline and Justin MacDonnell, a couple who grew up in the region and fell in love with cattle country dotted with cycad-filled gorges and Aboriginal rock art. Tents start from $120 per night. Visit www. wallaroooutback retreat.com.au/about.

HERBERTVALE STATION

Follow station owner Shelley Hawkins as she leads a five-day, 66km trek across the northwestern pocket of Outback Queensland – on foot – and mostly on her Herbertvale Station. Small group tours depart from Mt Isa and

Charlotte Plains Farm Stay.

Photos: Sean Scott

continue to the limestone gorges of the Boodjamulla National Park. Hikers enjoy guided trekking, sunset refreshments, chef-prepared meals and an already-pitched tent and sleeping mat for $3150 per person. Visit trekwesthiking. com.au. Tip: Herbertvale Station is just a few ‘klicks’ driving distance from Mt Isa Mines Rodeo (August 8–11, 2019) and the Drover’s Camp Festival, Camouweal (August 23–28, 2019).

CHARLOTTE PLAINS FARM STAY

This sheep station that once pushed 60,000 animals through its huge shearing shed every year is 54km from Cunnamulla. Take the three-hour tour and find out more about the history and jump in the artesian bore and mineral rich baths. Stay in self-catering shearers quarters, the shearing shed (open air). Visit charlotteplains. com.au. Tip: On August 30, 2019, cowboys, bull

Halfway between Thargomindah and Hungerford is Kilcowera, a 49,000ha working cattle station with a pretty shearers quarters campground with barbecues, fireplaces stocked with wood, picnic tables and a basic camp kitchen. Take the 60km selfdrive tour around the station past lagoons, creeks and waterholes, then stay in the comfortable shearers quarters or one of three separate campgrounds. Visit kilcowera.com.au.

10. MYELLA STATION

The first owners of Myella Station hit the jackpot, literally, when they purchased their farm as part of a 1935 land lottery. Today their descendants’ main job is to fatten cattle into prime beef exports, by buying males at two years old and feeding them quality grass. Their other job is sharing their home with guests from all around the world, setting up informal 4WD farm tours and teaching visitors about wildlife, bush tucker, conservation, and farming practices. A two-day package at $270 per person includes bus transfers from Rockhampton (125km northeast of Myella), all meals, two horse rides and farm tours. Visit myella.weebly. com for further information. Tip: Continue the horse theme and check out Paradise Lagoons Campdraft in May or the Rockhampton River Festival from July 12–14, 2019.

MAY, 2019// SENIORS

‘‘

We drank in the clean air and quietness after the traffic madness of Hanoi.

NATURAL BEAUTY: A flower farm in the mountainous region of Sapa, northern Vietnam.

Photos: Yvonne Gardiner

Wonders of Vietnam Yvonne and John Gardiner take a 17-day ‘eco’ tour on their first trip to Vietnam

Children enjoy national day celebrations in Hanoi.

STANDING in a queue for three humid hours alongside hundreds of Vietnamese families was an unexpected but ideal way to “meet the locals”. Vietnam, including its crowded capital Hanoi, was celebrating its national day and we were caught up in the excitement of the city on the second day of our visit. Families had surged into Hanoi to pay homage at Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum, which shelters his embalmed body. Their reverence for this former leader was obvious. Despite the long wait in hot, steamy conditions, the Vietnamese people we encountered were polite, cheerful and

friendly. Children impressed us with their good behaviour. Youngsters learning English took the opportunity to converse with us – Aussies who looked somewhat out of place in a sea of Vietnamese faces. This heartwarming introduction to Vietnam was the beginning of a 17-day “eco” tour extending from north to south. From the mountainous region of Sapa to the central districts around Hue and Hoi An and the Mekong Delta down south below Saigon, the trip covered a kaleidoscope of rare and wonderful experiences. An overnight train ride north from Hanoi took us to the beautiful Sapa Valley. Like a Garden of Eden, green hills are topped by mist, while roaring rivers and waterfalls tumble downwards. We drank in the clean air and quietness after the traffic madness of Hanoi. We passed villagers working in the rice and corn fields, aided by water

buffalo. We were welcomed into a primary school and invited to take photos of giggling children. After hours of walking in the mud and rain, we hesitantly accepted a lift from motorbike taxi riders to avoid a further two-hour trek to our homestay. Fully aware of the warnings put out by travel experts about the risks of riding motorbikes in Asia, we climbed aboard, and, after a fast, bumpy journey, were thankful to get to our destination in one piece. The main town, Sapa, is obviously much-loved by tourists, with its swanky restaurants and numerous souvenir shops. Cat Cat village, within walking distance of Sapa, is home to the hospitable Hmong tribe. The ladies weave hemp from the marijuana plant, and dye it with henna. Traditional Hmong houses are very basic, made from blackened timber planks. Corn hangs from the roof inside. There’s an open fire with no chimney, and the top

SENIORS \\MAY, 2019

ANCIENT ROYALTY: The Imperial City in Hue and (inset) a Vietnamese fisherman shows off his skills.

from north to south

floor is used for storing food. From primitive living we progressed to high-tech exhilaration with a thrilling ride on the cable car to Fansipan peak, Vietnam’s highest mountain. We soared into the clouds and a rainbow appeared over the valley. At the top is an ultra-modern complex with gardens, shops, restaurants and temples. In central Vietnam, we were overawed by the magnificent Paradise Cave, a true natural wonder. The 570m steep climb to a small entrance in the mountain tested the body. Inside for a kilometre, cathedral-sized spaces hung with vibrantly coloured stalactites and stalagmites sculpted over millions of years. This wondrous cave was discovered in 2005 by a hunter in the national park. Man-made rather than natural wonders were on display at the tombs of two kings in Hue. Minh Mang tomb was quite a large complex with a man-made lake and

Photos: Yvonne Gardiner

A natural wonder – the Paradise Cave in central Vietnam. tomb on a hill. Khai Dinh, Vietnam’s gay king, had an exquisitely beautiful mausoleum with a statue of himself amid fabulous mosaics. He’d been to the

Palace of Versailles in France and wanted a similar standard in his burial chamber. Enchanting pagodas, 1000-year-old temples, harrowing wartime tales,

myriad bonsai trees, orange-robed monks, diminutive dancers, hardworking people, delicious food, a singing boatman, net-making lessons from a

fifth-generation fisherman … the variety of life and depth of experiences in Vietnam is amazing. As for politics in the country, communism and capitalism seem to exist

comfortably together, although a statue of working-class Uncle Ho seemed strangely out of place alongside the Cartier diamonds showroom.

MAY, 2019// SENIORS

Cruising on the Columbus Maggy Oehlbeck SAILING out of Yokohama at dusk aboard CMV’s Columbus was a promising start to our mini-voyage between Japan and China. We were on the top deck watching the retreating lights of this famous gateway port to Tokyo. On the docks below, an exuberant Japanese high school jazz band was doing its bit for international relations and we couldn’t resist swaying to the beat (or the boat). We left the rails, smoothed our hair and swooshed indoors to the swank Grill, one of five dining options on board. I couldn’t pass up the surf and turf. Columbus is the flagship of independently owned Cruise & Maritime Voyages’ (CMV) fleet of five ships. Many Australians will remember her as Pacific Pearl from her P&O days. Now with new owners, new itineraries and a makeover she is homeported in Tilbury, UK. We joined her on day 67 of her 120-day round-theworld-voyage. Ours was a six-day stint. Those who boarded in London had already adopted her as home. Most were British with a 20 per cent mix of Germans, Dutch and Australians. Many had already signed up for next year’s RTW sailing on January 6, 2020. Columbus carries 1400 voyagers in 775 cabins. 150 cabins are allocated to solo voyagers – a growing trend on cruise ships these days. We found our ample-size ocean view cabins highly satisfactory.

UPMARKET COMFORT: The Raffles Lounge on Cruise & Maritime Voyages’ Columbus. All have plump European bedding, ensuite, personal safe, bar fridge, TV and hairdryer. As on most cruise ships the atrium is the social hub – a good spot to watch the passing parade, shop, have coffee at Hemmingways, scan newspapers, do crosswords and even have a choir rehearsal! I couldn’t believe my eyes – or ears when I saw 30 or so British voyagers avidly practising their choral pieces while – at a ‘safe distance’ – a German choir was doing the same. All good fun. Wisely both choirs dispersed before cocktail hour so we could enjoy the melodious renderings of the professional piano and violin duo – a classy

accompaniment for champagne or tea, a martini at Raffles perhaps, or any other atmospheric lounge bar on board. The tone is traditional British country house – perfect for couples and solos who like a gracious style of cruising that delivers classy entertainment, fine food, friendly staff and plenty of fun. Yes, there are formal nights and everyone loves them. Meanwhile in the Palladium Show Lounge, the professional entertainers were brushing up on their dance routines and testing sound levels for the night’s performance of Hello Dolly. Equally, voyagers like the

A deluxe balcony ocean view suite on Cruise & Maritime Voyages’ Columbus.

The atrium and main reception on Cruise & Maritime Voyages’ Columbus. camaraderie of amateur theatrics, ukulele and guitar groups, linedancing, ballroom dancing, bridge and special-interest talks. And, of course, shore excursions. Next morning, we awoke to views of

Kagoshima’s active volcano letting off steam. Shore choices were a stroll around its slopes, and visiting Sengan-en Garden and museum complex. Others chose natural sand baths at Ibusuki city hoping to emerge revitalised after

Cruise & Maritime Voyages’ Columbus.

being buried to the neck in warm sand. Or alternatively a tour of Chiran’s Samurai Houses and Peace museum. Meanwhile, stay-athomes were happy with the gym, spa, creating in the Crafters Studio, or snoozing on deck. Columbus’ crowning achievement is the outstanding cuisine. Restaurants are: Waterfront – full-service dining room; buffet-style Plantation Bistro adjoining the pool deck; Fusion for fabulous Indian cuisine and the exceptional Chef’s Table private dining degustation dinner – a not-to-be-missed experience. For more cruise details, go to cmvaustralia.com.

Photo: Maggy Oehlbeck

SENIORS \\MAY, 2019

Twenty reasons to visit Vivid Sydney VIVID Sydney is the largest festival of light, music and ideas in the Southern Hemisphere. It lights up Sydney and surrounds at 6pm each night for 23 days from May 24 until June 15, 2019. Here are 20 reasons to come to Sydney during that time to enjoy the Vivid festival: 1. Under the Argyle Cut in The Rocks transports you back to your childhood. Enjoy looking at 30 years of animation through the eyes of Pixar Animation Studios, including some of their most loved characters such as Woody and Buzz Lightyear. 2. Take a Sydney Harbour cruise. 3. Experience the magic of Taronga Zoo at night with new lantern, Sumatran Tiger Cubs, marking the birth of three new tiger cubs and highlighting the zoo’s

commitment to conservation. 4. Challenge yourself to see something different each day and night – no tour guide needed. 5. Play the giant Cascading Harp made of hollow metallic spheres at Chatswood. 6. Explore Sydney’s colonial history from a new perspective by discovering the installations throughout the harbourside quarter where European settlement began in The Rocks, such as Watch Your Chips! and Nostalgia Above. 7. Stroll over Sydney Harbour Bridge to experience City Sparkle, an unforgettable view of Sydney Harbour lit up by thousands of LEDs and projections. 8. Fly through the night sky on Volaré, Luna Park’s newest ride, described as a “magical wave swinger”.

9. See the lighting of the Sydney Opera House sails at 6pm every evening. This year, LA based Andrew Thomas Huang will transform the sails with Austral Floral Ballet. Uniquely Sydney, uniquely Vivid. 10. From the lights outside to the glitter of the stage, catch a show at one of Sydney’s iconic theatres while you’re there. 11. Warm up with a little exercise – take on the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb at dusk and catch Lights On from a prime vantage point from 6pm each evening. 12. Embrace your inner child at KA3233 at the Royal Botanic Gardens. The interactive installation is overgrown with alien plant matter and reacts to sounds and space. 13. Enjoy the Art Gallery of NSW after hours with a series of free ideas and

VIVID EXPERIENCE: Vivid Sydney 2019 will have 23 days of superb displays.

Photo: Andrew Thomas Huang

music events on Wednesday nights. 14. See the largest puppet constructed in Australia at Barangaroo. The glowing giant Marri Dyin, meaning ‘Great Woman’ in Sydney Aboriginal language will hunt and gather along Wulungul Walk each evening from Thursday to Sunday. 15. Walk through Firefly Field in the Royal Botanic Garden to experience the beautiful, unpredictable natural movement of the

rare creatures. 16. Learn what goes on Under The Harbour during Vivid Sydney at Customs House. It’s a surreal underwater encounter sure to delight children and adults alike. 17. Experience a church concert like no other at St Stephen’s Uniting Church. Light Qualities will present four concerts by emerging Sydney-based composerperformer collective Konxertproject throughout Vivid Sydney. 18. Shrink down and be

immersed in a super-sized Trumpet Flowers at Chatswood. 19. Be seduced by the imposing art-deco façade of the Museum of Contemporary Art as it is transformed by awardwinning AustralianColombian artist Claudia Nicholson underscored by the cool and contemporary sounds of Lonelyspeck. 20. Be part of the experience that is Vivid Sydney by becoming a volunteer.

Korea’s floral footpath

SPRING is one of the best times to visit Korea as the cheery blossoms and flowers bloom, and festivals pop up across the country. While enjoying the season of renewal, when just two or three weeks each year the magnificent pink blossoms float in warm breeze, here are some of the top spring festival events to experience.

Cherry blossoms are not the only flowers you can enjoy in spring. The canola flower is one of the flowers that represents the Island of Jeju. As Jeju is located in the most southern region of Korea, the climate is a lot warmer and the yellow canola flowers start to bloom from the end of winter. There are various activities available at the festival, such as making a canola crown, making pan-fried flower rice cake, horseback riding and more.

YEOUIDO CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL

Location – Yeongdeungpo-gu, Yeouido in April. Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival is the best place to enjoy cherry blossoms in Seoul. Located right next to the Han River, the streets are lined with more than 1400 cherry blossom trees that create a picturesque tunnel for you to stroll down. From 6.30pm onwards, the cherry blossoms are lit up with various illuminations, making the scenery that much more spectacular. Here you can also enjoy cultural street performances, a flower decoration exhibit, and a photo exhibit taking place throughout the festival period.

GYEONGJU CHERRY BLOSSOM

TAEAN INTERNATIONAL TULIP FESTIVAL

DELICATE BEAUTY: In 2018 the Taean Tulip Festival was chosen as one of the top five tulip festivals in the world.

FESTIVAL

Location – Gyeongju City, Gyeongsang-do in April. Gyeongju is a coastal city located in the southeastern parts of Korea. Often called the ‘museum without walls’, the area has a plethora of UNESCO World Heritage sights. These historic sights are beautiful all year round but particularly mesmerising during spring. Bomun Lake takes on a pink hue from all the fallen cherry blossom petals, making it the perfect place to take a

leisurely stroll. There are also duck paddle boats you can borrow for an afternoon and relax along the lake. Additionally, there will be many street stalls around the festival where you can try local street food and seasonal delicacies.

JINHAE CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL

Location – Tongsin-dong, Jinhae-gu, Changwon-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, April. Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival is Korea’s biggest spring festivals and

attracts more than two million visitors every year. The festival boasts a long history and first began as a memorial service to commemorate one of Korea’s most well-known naval admirals, Yi-Sun-sin. Jinhae is also headquarters to Korea’s naval academy and during the festival, tours inside the Korea Naval Academy Museum and naval vessels are available for visitors. There are plenty of things to enjoy during the festival period, such as the Yeojwacheon Starlight

Festival, which is a night-time illumination event, Sokcheonhang Port Multimedia Fireworks show, and the highlight of the festival – the air show by the Black Eagles. The flight display will be performed by the Republic of Korea Air Force, and it is a rare opportunity to see aircrafts performing unison formations above the cherry blossoms.

JEJU CANOLA FLOWER FESTIVAL Location – San41, Gasi-ri, Pyoseon-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, April.

Location – 400, Kkotjihaean-ro, Taean-gun, Chungcheongnam-do, April-May. In 2018 the Taean Tulip Festival was chosen as one of the top five tulip festivals in the world. The festival showcases a spectacular array of colours with more than 200 types of tulips on display. From kikomachi to purple flags, the tulips are carefully arranged into patterns and shapes for the show. The event will also have family-friendly activities such as animal feeding, face painting and a LED light festival.

MAY, 2019// SENIORS

Tips for happy feet

Wellbeing

Tracey Johnstone IF YOU keep your feet healthy, you will be able to do so much more to stay active and have better overall health. But when you can’t easily see what is happening down there with your feet, chances are you will ignore the problems with them until the road back to good foot health is painful and expensive. Australian Podiatry Association ambassador and podiatrist Charlotte Bodell has some top tips for seniors for better foot health, with the help of your local podiatrist. General foot health ■ Be very careful when cutting your nails that you don’t cut your skin and expose your feet to infection. ■ Recognise that as we get older our nails thicken, which makes them harder to cut. Your shoes will press on the thickened nail, which can cause the nail bed to become sore and a corn to occur under the nail bed. ■ The fat pad on the ball of your foot and heel wears out over time which can lead to hard calluses on the metatarsal joints

on the balls of your feet. The podiatrist can remove the hard skin for you. Bunions In the ’50s and ’60s men and women squeezed their toes into fashionable pointy shoes. Even footballers and boxers were squeezing their feet into tight shoes. This has led to seniors having problems with their nails, and with bunions and retracted curly toes. “If they have a bunion, the big toe comes over (the second toe), but also sometimes the second toe overrides,” Ms Bodell said. “When this happens, a corn happens on top, so you need to make sure your shoes are deep enough.” Other causes of bunions can be hereditary or your foot’s biomechanics. The bunion can be fixed by a podiatrist if it is painful. This can be done by surgery, orthotics, wearing night splints and doing daily feet exercises, and wearing suitable orthopaedic footwear. Type 2 Diabetes University of South Australia researcher Dr Helen Banwell said there has been a 30 per cent increase in the number of lower limb amputations in

HAPPIER TOES: Taking better care of your feet will ensure you have pain-free movement. the past 20 years. “About 85 per cent of these are preceded by a foot ulcer and could be prevented with appropriate care,” she said. “When the blood level goes above seven, the extra sugars sit at the end of the nerves.” The nerves at the top of your fingers and the top of your toes get killed off, which results in neuropathy disease and no feeling. The extra sugars also stick to the inner walls of

the arteries, which affects your circulation and leads to vascular disease. “Also, if you have a cut it will take longer to heal,” Ms Bodell added. A serious side-effect of all of this is if you have a blister on the bottom of your foot and you have nerve damage, you won’t know the blister is there. It can become infected and form into an ulcer, which can then go deeper and become an infection in the bone. Hospital IV antibiotics will be needed,

and amputation is a possible outcome. An amputation can increase your risk of a stroke or heart attack. If you are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, make sure your GP refers you at least once or twice a year to a podiatrist where you will get neurological and circulation testing. Pedicures Relying on a pedicure isn’t the best choice for managing long toe nails. ■ You need to ensure the

Photo: Bill Oxford

equipment is sterile and the soaking sink is free of flaky skin that might have tinea or wart skin on it, which your feet can pick up. ■ When your big toenails are cut, they may be not shaped to avoid you getting an in-grown nail, especially if a spike of nail is left behind. ■ When your nails are painted, don’t forget the brush has been on other people’s nails, which means you can pick up fungal infections.

Hope for Hearts campaign begins Tracey Johnstone

HEART HEALTH: There is hope for saving more lives with keyhole surgery.

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

Dr Emanuel Svoboda

(07) 5506 6777

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

BRISBANE cardiologists are teaming up with leading Sydney and Melbourne heart doctors and surgeons to launch the Hope for Hearts campaign which promotes keyhole surgery to replace faulty heart valves for people aged under 80. One of Australia’s most undiagnosed heart conditions, one in eight older Australians are diagnosed with Aortic Stenosis (AS) which is traditionally treated with invasive open-heart surgery. If left untreated, up to 50 per cent of these people die within two years of diagnosis. Caused by a narrowing of the aortic valve, AS symptoms include shortness of breath, angina or chest discomfort, and light-headedness or passing out. Non-invasive keyhole surgery, known as TAVI, eliminates the need for open-heart surgery for many patients but is only

‘‘

If left untreated, up to 50 per cent of these people die within two years of diagnosis. available for patients aged over 80 years and those who are deemed high risk. The Hope for Hearts campaign is a call to broaden Medicare rebates and cover from private health insurers. “AS is under-diagnosed and unappreciated by patients and doctors,” Dr Karl Pool from Brisbane’s St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital said. “There needs to be more awareness of TAVI which has been done for 15 years and has proven to be superior to open heart surgery.” The results and recovery from a TAVI procedure can be quite

remarkable. High-risk patient, 77-year-old Mychael McLoughlin, underwent surgery last year. “I had the procedure on Friday, was sent home on Sunday and could drive a car by the following Wednesday, which is just incredible,” he said. “Before the surgery, I was flat out walking 25 metres, but after the procedure, it wasn’t long before I could do 200 metres, then 400 and that’s continuing to improve.” TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation) takes about one hour and does not require a general anaesthetic. Patients are often discharged within three days. Patients in the public hospital system often have to wait up to a year for a TAVI procedure, which increases their risk of dying. A Medicare rebate is currently only available to patients considered high or moderate risk and is not covered by private health insurance.

SENIORS \\MAY, 2019

EYE HEALTH

It takes a good eye to see this

SO YOU have been diagnosed with a cataract and now you’re wondering what that means and how best to deal with it. Here is some information to assist with your eye health. Cataract A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s naturally clear lens. When the lens becomes opaque, the amount of light that passes through it is reduced and scattered, and the image cannot be correctly focused on the retina at the back of the eye, leading to blurred vision. The eyes may be more sensitive to glare and light, and colours may seem faded or yellowed. Double vision may also occur. ■ There are three types of age-related cataract: 1. Nuclear cataract (in the centre of the lens) 2. Cortical cataract (in the

outer shell or periphery of the lens) 3. Posterior subcapsular cataract (at the back of the lens in the central axis). The three types of cataract often occur together. ■ Prevalence of cataract It is estimated that, in 2004, almost 1.5 million Australians aged 55 or more had cataracts, which represents 31% of that population. Age-specific rates for cataract increase with age for men and women and are well over 70% for men and women aged 80 or more. Prevalence rates are higher among women than men. It ■ Risk factors for cataract Cataracts are largely related to the ageing process. There is some evidence that long term exposure to sunlight, tobacco, and

GOOD VISION: An eye test is a vital check on the health of your eyes. heavy alcohol consumption may be associated with cataract formation. Systemic diseases such as diabetes and vascular disease may increase the risk of cataract development, as may eye injury or the use of some medications, including corticosteroids. Several studies in humans have reported that the risk of developing ocular cataracts is significantly higher in people with low dietary intakes of fruit and vegetables, vitamins C and E and betacarotene (NHMRC 2003). Experimental studies with model systems have

added further support to the notion that above average intakes of antioxidant nutrients may delay the onset of senile cataract. More recently a modest protective effect against the development of cataracts has been observed for higher intakes of the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin (NHMRC 2003). The two major carotenoids in the human macula and retina are lutein and zeaxanthin. Similar to -carotene, these pigments are found in various coloured fruits and green leafy vegetables. Of the 40 to 50 carotenoids typically consumed in the human

diet, lutein and zeaxanthin, are deposited at an up to 5 fold higher content in the macular region of the retina as compared to the peripheral retina. The best natural food sources of lutein and zeaxanthin are green leafy vegetables and other green or yellow vegetables. Among these, cooked kale and cooked spinach top the list, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Non-vegetarian sources of lutein and zeaxanthin include egg yolks. Interventions for cataract When symptoms begin to appear, visual aids such as glasses, strong

bifocals or magnifying glasses may be used to improve vision for a while. When the condition becomes serious enough to affect daily life, a surgical procedure becomes necessary to restore vision. The operation is a simple and effective procedure that can restore vision. The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear, permanent intra-ocular lens. Cataract surgery is generally performed under local anaesthetic as day surgery. Source: health.gov.au/internet/ publications/publishing.

General information to understanding cataract surgery ■ Why is cataract surgery performed? Cataracts can make your vision become blurry or hazy. The treatment is surgery on the affected eye to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a permanently implanted plastic lens called an intraocular lens.

■ How to prepare for cataract surgery On the day of the surgery, you will be given eye drops that include an antibiotic. You will have a small plastic tube inserted into a vein in your arm. You might be given an injection around the eye or eye drops to make

the eye go numb. Most people have a local anaesthetic, although some have a general anaesthetic. Your doctor can give you more information. ■ What happens during cataract surgery? You will be asked to lie on your back for up to 45

minutes. The doctor will make a small cut in the eye to remove the cloudy lens and to insert the plastic lens. ■ What to expect after cataract surgery Your doctor will probably place a pad over the eye operated on. You might have some pain or

discomfort in that eye. If you do, you should tell a nurse or doctor so they can give you something to ease the pain. Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure and does not require an overnight stay. You should not drive until your vision has returned to normal so

LOCALS CARING FOR LOCALS At Eyecare Plus, we take time to provide you with a thorough eye test and check for more than what glasses you may need. As part of our regular eye test, we do a complete examination that assesses the health of your eyes, so that we can ensure the early detection of common eye diseases like cataract, glaucoma and macular degeneration. Book a comprehensive eye test today! Eyecare Plus Yamba Shop 24, Yamba Shopping Fair 1-3 Treelands Dr, Yamba NSW 2464 P: 02 6646 1477 eyecareplus.com.au/yamba

Eyecare Plus Maclean 241 River Street Maclean, NSW 2463 P: 02 6645 2523 eyecareplus.com.au/maclean

Eyecare Plus Grafton 58 Prince St P: 02 6643 4000 eyecareplus.com.au/grafton

you will need someone to take you home. Further Info: Visit The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists website. Source: healthdirect.gov.au/ cataract-surgery

MAY, 2019// SENIORS

Older means even better

Living

Tania Phillips COMEDIAN Denise Scott is set to swap Dancing With The Stars for Breakfast in Byron as she heads to the shire for this year’s Comedy Festival. Denise will host the comedy breakfast as part of this year’s festival, to be held from May 17–19. Declaring that she has “hung up” her dancing shoes, the grand dame of Australian comedy will instead hold court on the Sunday morning, bringing her own brand of humour to brekkie and bubbly. “My dancing days are done,” she declared from Sydney – her temporary base during Studio 10 filming weeks. She quickly became a fan favourite thanks to her irreverent humour and was asked to come back and co-host when Grant Denyer injured his back (making Denise and Amanda Keller probably the first women over 55 to co-host a show together). “It was fun, though I can’t speak for everyone else, but I physically found it very hard, a tremendous challenge but it was nice to know that someone as fit as Michelle (Bridges) found it a challenge too,” she laughed. For Denise, who struggles with arthritis, it was a particularly difficult challenge, though she said the movement certainly helped ease her symptoms. After all that exercise and excitement, Denise is counting down to her trip up here to the

THE GO-TO WOMAN: Comedian Denise Scott.

Byron Comedy Festival. “I’m really looking forward to it,” she said. “John (her partner) and I are going to have a little holiday after the gig. “I will be between my commitments to Studio 10 – I film every second week and this is the week between.” It is a rare week off for the busy comedian and an even rarer stand-up gig for the in-demand 64-year-old. After a long career, Denise seems to be the go-to woman of the hour. She has the gig on the Studio 10 morning show, has just finished her Dancing With The Stars stint, and is a regular on comedy show Have You Been Paying Attention. She also hopes to have time to work on a writing project (that she can’t talk about yet) later in the year. The upswing in her career has caught Denise by surprise and it’s a product, she believes, of her longevity in show business, outlasting other comedians and actresses to be the last one standing when people need someone of a certain age. She laughs when it’s suggested talent may have also played a part. “It’s an interesting thing – looking around my friends who were in comedy and have now forged other career paths, some by choice and some by necessity,” Denise said. However, for Denise, apparently having no other skill “other than knitting”

and not doing that particularly quickly, it seems the entertainment industry will be where she stays. “I’m amazed as well (that the jobs keep coming). I keep assuming that is going to be it but new work keeps happening.” She said the more her face wrinkled, the more the work came. “It doesn’t make sense,” she deadpans. So with such a long career in comedy, does she have any advice? Denise pearls of wisdom? “Not that anyone asks my advice, but for young comedians – especially young women – it’s ‘hang in there’,” she laughs. The Byron festival will feature 12 shows over three days including stand-up comedy, comedy debate, best of British, funny kids, laughter yoga and more. The newly renovated Byron Surf Club is home to the 2019 Byron Comedy Festival, May 17–19. The program is full of internationally accomplished comics the likes of Glenn Robbins and Peter Rowsthorn (Kath & Kim) … the list goes on. Byron Shire based comic Mandy Nolan will MC the Comedy Debate as well as performing in the late-night burlesque extravaganza, and the wonderful Joel Salom delivers his family show. Info: byroncomedyfest. com

Drama of ordinary lives HE TURNED 69 on April 29 but actor Rob Meldrum believes he is at the top of his game now, better than he was in his 20s. Meldrum and Jillian Murray (herself in her early 60s) are about to tour Australia with The Lovers of Viorne – a two-handed play written in the ’60s by celebrated French author Marguerite Duras. The production comes to Lismore City Hall on Friday, June 14, and Saturday, June 15, as part of the NORPA 2019 program. The tour will also include shows in Brisbane on June 28–29. For Meldrum it is a chance to visit an old friend and a chance to

come up to the Far North Coast for only the second time in his life. “I worked with Bell Shakespeare in the early 2000s,” he explained. “I was with their education show and spent two weeks touring Northern New South Wales.” This time around he has a week before the next show in Perth and is hoping to stay and take in the region but first he will perform a show he obviously finds an interesting challenge. The Lovers of Viorne follows a brutal murder committed in a small town in France (based on a compelling true crime story) and the story of who it happened to and

why. He said the first few minutes “bring spoilers” of sorts involving both the victim and perpetrator, with the play then following the two main suspects being interviewed and the full story mostly being unearthed. Pierre (Rob Meldrum) and Claire Lannes (Jillian Murray – 2015 Green Room winner, Best Female Performer, Independent Theatre) are ordinary humans leading everyday lives until catastrophe occurs. Over the course of the drama, they effortlessly reveal the beauty and brutality of their inner selves, and create a painstaking portrait of lost passion.

THE LOVERS OF VIORNE: Claire Lannes (Jilian Murray) and Pierre (Rob Meldrum) are coming to Lismore. Photo: Oscar Strangio Rob said they made the decision to not bring in a third person, with Jillian acting as the interviewer for “Pierre” and then Rob interviewing Claire. The pair have performed the play over several years from

2014–2017 but this is the first time in two years and the first time outside of Victoria. Directed by Laurence Strangio, The Lovers of Viorne (L’amante Anglaise) is a rare work of theatre.

The Lovers Of Viorne (L’amante Anglaise) is on Friday, June 14, and Saturday, June 15, from 7.30pm at NORPA, Lismore City Hall. For tickets, go to norpa.org.au or phone 1300 066 772.

SENIORS \\MAY, 2019

LIVING

New bowls program for over 65s BOWLS Australia is receiving $1.2 million to spend on its new initiative, Roll Back the Clock, which aims to boost physical activity rates among Australians aged 65 and over through bowls, light exercise and education. This funding from the Sport Australia Better Ageing program will enable 180 programs to be run across 40 locations around Australia. The Roll Back the Clock

sessions will be adapted for individuals. The program benefits include flexibility, muscular endurance and strength and in some instances aerobic/ cardiovascular exercise. Each session will cost $5 for the accessible activities. Inactivity, isolation and loneliness are key concerns for the increasingly ageing Australian population. This program will provide opportunities for

those who are socially isolated to engage with new people, have supportive conversations while getting active and learning about better health. Lawn bowls has all the attributes that can help you feel part of your community.

JOIN UP: Sport Australia Better Ageing program is funding Bowls Australia’s Roll Back the Clock program for over 65s. Photo: HamidEbrahimi

WALKING FRIENDS: Village ambassadors provide a great help in motivating fellow residents to get active by walking regularly either in groups or individually.

A new idea moves residents to get on their feet WITH a little help from a friend researchers have found a simple way to get more seniors more active through a peer-support walking program. A selection of retirement village residents, who were already quite active, became volunteer ambassadors in each of the 14 test villages. They were tasked with motivating 116 less active fellow residents across those villages to

get more active during a 16-week test period. The Curtin University project leader, Professor Cecilie Thøgersen-Ntoumani, reported the research participants ultimately increased their daily steps by about 750, reduced their prolonged sitting periods by seven per cent and increased the quality of motivation by 20 per cent through the work of the trained ambassadors.

“We trained them in different motivational techniques and interpersonal communication styles in order for the less physically active individuals to increase the quality of their motivation,” Dr Thøgersen-Ntoumani said. “The people who became the ambassadors were ones who were already physically active and

generally had been quite active throughout their lives, were quite interested in helping others increase their activity and often, people who were quite integrated into their villages.” The ambassadors didn’t need any skills to start. Instead, Dr ThøgersenNtoumani’s team provided them with the necessary motivation, supportive

communication and logistical skills to build strong connections among the research participants. At the start of the trial, residents completed three weekly group walks and were encouraged to independently do two extra walks per week. In the final six weeks residents completed self-organised walks which were designed to encourage residents to continue walking

independently after the trial had finished. “A very powerful motivator for the people in their groups was the feeling of social connection within the group and the village overall,” Dr ThøgersenNtoumani said. To access the ambassador training manual and the walker’s manual, phone Dr Thøgersen-Ntoumani on (08) 9266 5171.

Minjungbal Drive.

Community notes

NSAA

Community group guide WE welcome your community notes.. If you would like to submit a photo ensure it is at least 180dpi or 500kb to 1mb in size and of faces, in a nice bright setting. Email editor@seniors newspaper.com.au.

TWIN TOWNS & DISTRICT GARDEN CLUB

OUR next meeting will be on Monday, June 17. The venue will be South Tweed Sports Club, Minjungbal Drive, South Tweed, in the downstairs auditorium. Guest speaker for May was Kim Martin “Bio organic solutions for soil and plants”. Our June guest speaker will be Sue Gaskill “Growing beautiful African violets”. The hall opens at 8am for entry and benching, with the general meeting commencing at 9.30am. Cuttings and trading tables will commence selling at 8.15am, so come along and snap up a bargain. Cost: $4 paid at the door, includes morning tea. If you’re benching, it closes at 9.15am. Raffles, lucky door prizes and more. Phone Monika Ross on 0412 638 373 or go to twintownsgardenclub. com.

U3A

VIEW CLUBS

Twin Towns Day OUR 51st birthday was held at South Tweed Sports Club in May. VIEW Clubs support Learning for Life students and we are very proud of our seven students. For bookings, phone Freda on 07 5524 1357 or Kathie on 07 5523 1009.

ART EXHIBITION

A SOLO art exhibition by local pastel artist Terri Bradley will be held from May 20–31, weekdays 9am–4pm at the GCCC Community Centre at Kirra Hill behind the Iron Eagle. The exhibition is of pastel paintings and all are for sale. A donation of 10 per cent of all sales will be made to Four Paws Australia, which rescues injured animals and nurses them back to health.

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Tweed Coast WE HAVE some exciting new groups looking for members. They include circle dancing, family history, cryptic crosswords, and knit and natter. It costs just $40 to join U3A Tweed Coast, giving you access to more than 40 different groups, from languages to computers, art to tennis.

For more, go to tweed coast.u3anet.org.au. Twin Towns IF YOU’VE ever wanted to learn to sing and love the songs of the ’70s, we have a wonderful new course just for you. Come along to our new choir singing course and discover the joy and benefits of group singing. As well as having fun, the deep breathing associated with singing reduces stress. Tuesdays, 11.15am–12.15pm. Phone 07 5534 7333 or email u3a1office@gmail.com.

The Gold Coast South-Twin Towns Branch SERVING from Tallebudgera to the Tweed, we will hold our next GM on Friday, May 24, at 10am in the RSL Sub Branch Anzac Room of Twin Towns Resort. If you served in any forces of the Commonwealth between 1951 and 1972, SPECIAL TOAST: The Tweed Valley Toastmasters Club celebrates 25 years as a club. then why not join us and rekindle the camaraderie you experienced during your service. We also PROBUS CLUBS event. Contact pickles. Refreshments will have a full social program Coolangatta Tweed thefederalexchange on be available from the and new members are Heads Facebook or email Lamp Cafe run by the always welcome to attend. WE ASPIRE to provide thefederalexchange@ ladies of the auxiliary. We Phone Tom Hughes on fun, friendship and gmail.com. purchased equipment in 07 5513 665. fellowship for active excess of $80,000 from retirees and meet on the CASINO & July 2018 to February TWEED HOSPITAL first Wednesday of each DISTRICT FAMILY 2019, which includes AUXILIARY month at Tweed Heads HISTORY GROUP special ED trolleys, and WE ARE holding a high Bowls Club. The club has INC defibrillator and pulse tea/fashion parade on regular guest speakers, WE ARE located in the oximeters. Visit us again Wednesday, June 12, at monthly dine-outs to local School of Arts Building, this year and help us to Tweed Heads Civic Centre, restaurants, theatre 78 Walker St, Casino, and raise even more funds. Brett and Wharf Sts, nights and other varied have a large collection of Tweed Heads. Doors open activities for the resource materials for TWEED VALLEY 9.30am for 10am start. enjoyment of members researching all family TOASTMASTERS There will be door prizes, and visitors. Anyone connections. Monthly HELP improve raffles and lots of fun. interested in joining our meetings are held on the communication skills and Tickets are $20 each. club can phone Barbara second Wednesday at confidence by joining us. Tables of up to eight can on 07 5523 4840. 9.30am, followed by As well as being good for be booked. Single tickets Hastings Point/Tweed either a guest speaker or you, it’s also fun. All are can also be purchased. Coast workshop. Inquiries welcome to an open Phone 0400 721 147. OUR next meeting will regarding membership house meeting at 9.45am be at Tricare, 87 Tweed can be made by visiting, on Wednesday, May 15, at LISMORE OVER Coast Rd, Hastings Point, phoning or emailing. On Cudgen Leagues Club, in 50S LEARNING at 10am on Tuesday, May Tuesdays, Thursdays, Kingscliff. For more CENTRE 21. The speaker will be Fridays 10am–2pm, information, send Gary an WE OFFER a range of Jack Sammon, a local Wednesday noon–4pm, email 2018onwards art and exercise classes bush poet who is regularly and Saturday (third @gmail.com or phone for mature age people. invited to the USA to Saturday of the month) Alison on 0405 461 008. Most classes are held at entertain with his 9–11.30am. Phone the Lismore Heights Australian poetry. Phone (02) 6662 8114, email: TACT COMPUTER Bowling Club, 181 High St, Jean Watson on casdfhg@australis.net or CLUB Lismore Heights. New 02 6670 4072. Facebook: Casino & WE HAVE a variety of members are always District Family History classes, which are held welcome. Phone Barbara THE FEDERAL Group Inc. Monday to Friday. on 02 66242 237 or EXCHANGE Windows 10 classes are 0401 503 732 or see our AUTUMN CROP CRAFT SHOW on Mondays at 11.30am. Facebook page: Over 50s SWAP THE Ballina Hospital The backing-up and Learning Centre Lismore. ON Saturday, May 11, Auxiliary will once again security class is held meet at 10am, Federal be holding its annual Craft Friday at 11.30am. For BALLINA COUNTRY Park playground, Federal, Show over two days, June further inquiries phone MUSIC CLUB NSW (undercover area 15 and 16, at the Ballina 07 55249 212 or email GUEST artist Tony next to tennis courts). Jockey Club. There will be members.tact Wagner will be performing Bring your excess spring 50 exhibitors selling a @gmail.com. Go to at 11am sharp and harvest of vegies, fruit, variety of crafts including tact.org.au for more. We finished at 5pm on June 2 seeds, cuttings, eggs, quilting, woodwork, art, have volunteer tutors who at the Ballina RSL Club compost, worms and any jewellery, clothing and enjoy their students Auditorium (upstairs). other garden creations to knitting. The auxiliary will gaining the knowledge Ballina RSL Club, 1 Grant swap with like-minded also have its own stalls they require for the St, Ballina, or phone locals at this all-ages, selling craft, plants and internet world. South Ballina RSL on sustainable, cash-free homemade jams and Tweed Sports Club, 4 (02) 6681 9500.

Live events staged at 1000 seat historic heritage theatre with wonderfuL acoustics, air conditioning, comfortabLe seating and superb Line of sight.

Home

Lee Kernaghan

Ladies night

cash Live

a taste of ireLand

the robertson brothers

soweto gospeL choir

sundaY 2nd June 2019

fridaY 14th June 2019

tuesdaY 2nd JuLY 2019

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saturdaY 20th JuLY 2019 Tickets on Sale Now.

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dami im

of the

Big Live Shows

thursdaY 30th maY 2019 Tickets on Sale Now.

saturdaY 3rd august 2019 Tickets on Sale Now.

SENIORS \\MAY, 2019

In which situations can you contest a Will? ‘‘

Money

By Estate Litigation Solicitor, Melissa Tucker

PEOPLE contest a Will for many reasons not related to challenging the validity, or contesting like family provision. It is an unfortunate reality that disputes arise after the death of a loved one. ‘Disputes’ are often an argument as to what the Will meant: ● How the Will is being administered or distributed. ● Whether there are errors in the Will. ● Whether a beneficiary named in the Will is not entitled because of a crime committed. ● Removal of an executor or administrator or other disputes about the use of a ‘power of attorney’ during the deceased’s lifetime. There are four different types of Will challenges: 1. On the grounds someone didn’t have the

mental capacity to make a Will. 2. Will maker didn’t have knowledge or approve a Will. 3. Will was written under the influence of others. 4. Will was fraud or forgery. When can you contest a Will because the Will maker did not have mental capacity to make a Will? This is a difficult area, and in many instances, family members simply obtain a Medical Certificate from a treating general practitioner. This cannot always be relied upon as being conclusive in relation to whether someone has testamentary capacity. It is quite a complicated process to understand the relevant issues and ensure that the person making the Will has the required testamentary capacity. All adults are presumed to have capacity, unless the contrary is

established in court and it is for a judge to determine. No one can stop any person from writing his or her own Will, with or without cognitive impairment, and it is only after the death of the Will maker that a judge will be asked to determine whether or not the Will is valid. Solicitors have a duty to ensure the client has the requisite legal capacity before either taking instructions or assisting them to make a Will. The legal test for establishing testamentary capacity is well established, with little change since its 1870 inception in Banks v Goodfellow. The test established by Banks v Goodfellow must be brought to bear on existing circumstances in modern life. The adaption of the test to modern life requires that: 1. The testator/testatrix must be aware, and

‘Disputes’ are often an argument as to what the Will meant

appreciate the significance, of the act in the law upon which he/she is about to embark; 2. The testator/testatrix must be aware, at least in general terms, of the nature, extent and value of the estate over which he/she has a disposing power; 3. The testator/testatrix must be aware of those who may reasonably be thought to have a claim upon his/her testamentary bounty, and the basis for, and nature of, the claims of such persons; and 4. The testator/testatrix must have the ability to evaluate, and discriminate between, the respective strengths of

the claims of such persons. The assessment of testamentary capacity is growing in complexity and increasingly demands an interdisciplinary approach, which utilises the skills of legal and medical professionals. Can you contest a Will because a will-maker did not have full knowledge of his/her approval? Similar to lack of mental capacity and sometimes they are both conducted in the course of a hearing before a judge at the same time if a will maker did not have the required mental capacity to make a will (also known as lacking testamentary capacity, mental capacity) then

clearly that will maker would not have the knowledge nor given his or her approval to the will because they were incapable of doing so at law. However lack of knowledge and approval can apply when a will maker does have testamentary capacity and for example could occur when a will maker of sound mind has signed a will not fully understanding its contents and thereby not giving his or her approval to the will. The rules regarding the preparation and signing of a will are very important in society to ensure the correct transfer of the assets to the person or persons intended by the deceased.

Inquiries regarding challenging or contesting Wills on a ‘no-win no-fee basis’, contact Donna Tolley, (07) 5506 8241, email dtolley@attwood marshall.com.au.

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Expertise for everyday or complex legal. Specializing in Wills & Estates.

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Lismore 1 Carrington St Ph: 02 6621 2481 BaLLina Suite 7, 26-54 River St Ph: 02 6686 2522 BYron BaY Jonson St Ph: 02 6680 8525

www.sll.com.au

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• WORKPLACE INJURY • MOTOR VEHICLE CLAIMS • WORKERS’ COMPENSATION • PERSONAL INJURY CLAIMS • CONVEYANCING, PROPERTY AND COMMERCIAL • FAMILY LAW • SUPERANNUATION AND INSURANCE CLAIMS • CONTESTED WILLS • EMPLOYMENT LAW AND INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS • WORKPLACE INVESTIGATION SERVICES

CLASSIFIEDS

MAY, 2019// SENIORS WHAT’S ON

MURWILLUMBAH ARTS TRAIL 2019

Call or place an ad online 13 11 13 or buysearchsell.com.au

Motoring Caravans & Motor Homes

CARAVANS WANTED All caravans wanted We come to you All areas, Cash today!

Phone 07 3812 3553 04188 76395

Cars

Fraud is the real deal If someone is requesting money to be transferred to an address or account prior to receiving the goods it may be fraudulent. Don’t be a wally, exercise caution before you respond to a request. Always verify the authenticity of persons requesting your credit card or bank details prior to making any transfers. For more info from the experts visit buysearchsell.com.au/staysafe

Pet peeved?

Find a dog trainer at Buy Search Sell.

EXPECT four days and nights of music, artists, architecture, feasting and drinking in Murwillumbah from May 16-19, 8am-6pm. Art everywhere, music, indigenous artists, circus, performance, dance and off-the-wall fun! Art and performance in surprising places. Four events will come together in Murwillumbah to create a unique visitor experience of “Culture & Cuisine”. Murwillumbah showground, Queensland Rd, Murwillumbah. For more, go to murwillumbah artstrail.com.au.

2018 ARCHIBALD PRIZE

AWARDED to the best painting of a notable Australian, the Archibald Prize is a who’s who of Australian culture, from politicians to celebrities and from sporting heroes to artists. Prestigious and controversial, the Archibald Prize is Australia’s foremost portraiture prize. It will be on display at the Lismore Regional Gallery until June 16. Go to lismoregallery.org.

EUCHRE TOURNAMENT

THE Lismore Workers Club will host the Northern Rivers Euchre Tournament over two days. From May 18-19. Saturday Tournament: Doors close at 12.45pm and tournament commences 1pm sharp. $10 entry free and up to $500 in prizemoney. Sunday Tournament: Doors close at 9.45am and tournament commences 10am sharp. $20 entry free and up to $1000 in prizemoney. All players must be 18 years or older. Bookings are not required to play. Lunch is not included in entry free but is available at the club at own expense from 11.45am. For more information, email nreclismore@hotmail.com or go to northernrivers euchreclub.org.

ART ON BUNDJALUNG MARKET

ART on Bundjalung Market will showcase and celebrate the creative cultural heritage of the Bundjalung region. Featuring handmade arts and crafts by established and emerging artists and collectives, employing traditional and contemporary materials including weaving,

ceramics, carving, photography, painting and textiles. Held in Lismore’s new creative outdoor space, The Quad on June 1, the day will begin with a celebration Welcome to Country and present local music, dance and making circles. Free event from 10am-4pm at the Lismore Quadrangle, 110 Magellan St, Lismore.

HARD CHEESE WORKSHOP

CHEF Siggy from Coffs Harbour will teach how to make make blue cheese, parmesan cheese, ploughman’s cheese and haloumi cheese. Price includes meal and some cheese to take home too. The event will be held at Peppertree Kitchen, 70 Magellan St, Lismore 10am-2pm, Adult $230. Please phone (02) 6622 0180 or go to peppertreekitchen. com.au.

BYRON BAY COMEDY FESTIVAL

BYRON Bay Comedy Festival will be held at the Byron Bay Surf Club located at Bay St on May 17, 18 and 19. The program runs from Friday to Sunday evening and it caters for all ages. Go to visitbyronbay.com/event/ byron-comedy-festival for more information.

Children’s story delight WELCOME to friends and relatives of young children. Here are two books to read and enjoy with the little people in your life. How Aunt Sally Got Her Name and How Aunt Sally Went to the Zoo, were written by Brisbane author Jean Peel. They follow Aunt Sally, a loveable, intrepid, adventurous, pussy cat from the time she runs away from home as a 10-week-old kitten, through the trials and tribulations she encounters during her lifetime. They say cats have nine lives. Well, Aunt Sally has surely proved that and there are nine stories waiting to be told. Now she’s old and very fat, she has time to lie on her favourite mat, remembering how she got her name, how she ended up at the city zoo, how she almost drowned and how she survived a cubby house fire. There are also the stories of how she went to sea, how she beat the bullies at the paintball park, how she went on holiday, how she became a mother and how she beat the burglars. You’ll laugh at her antics as she travels from one adventure to another. These rhyming stories for young children are very loosely based on the author’s own White Puss, another loveable pet, who spent 14 years with the family, seeking adventure and finding it. These are Jean Peel’s debut children’s books, with more to come. Books available at jeanpeel.com.

BOOK EXCERPT How Aunt Sally Got Her Name This story you’re about to hear Will hopefully please, so do not fear. It’s how Aunt Sally was given her name By a little girl called Matilda-Jane. The story begins a long time ago, On the opening day of the annual show. When a mother cat left her two kittens to play So she could go hunting to find some prey. The kittens soon grew tired of their games And ended up calling each other names. When her brother curled up to have a nap Aunt Sally ran off without thought of mishap. Her nose to the ground, her tail in the air Irresistible smells led her straight to the fair Where nimbly she skipped, and hopped, and leaped, Keeping out of the way of hundreds of feet.

SENIORS \\MAY, 2019

PUZZLES

QUICK CROSSWORD

13/5

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.

H A P E B

C L W S E

O R E F L

O O R M Y B L E

H O B L I N

O B W A E S T

A E R R S

E A R

B R A L M I E

E N L L

V M E N L

T E

A A G

O V V E D

F O W U I M A R

L S W T I N

I G H

M M E

M A C T C E I

I E G A R A

T N E A S N E

R U D N G U

V A D R V E R

T O S E P D R O

U A L A C

S T E

SUDOKU

13 14

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

N D E

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

O R Y L E O V E D E A R

SUDOKU

JIGGERED

TRIO: bRO

Across: 1. Recluse 5. Riﬂe 8. Conscientious 9. Pat 10. Aggressor 12. Aerate 13. Appals 15. Abandoned 16. Air 18. Hairsplitting 20. Dined 21. Suspend. Down: 1. Recap 2. Consternation 3. Uncharted 4. Emerge 5. Rut 6. Fool’s paradise 7. Ensures 11. Expedites 12. Abashed 14. Knells 17. Rigid 19. Sad.

SMOCK DENIAL SPOON IT GIANT PIN QUIET RISK

How many words of four letters or more can you make? Each letter must be used only once and all words must contain the centre letter. There is at least one nine-letter word. No words starting with a capital are allowed, no plurals ending in s unless the word is also a verb, e.g. he burns with anger.

QUICK CROSSWORD T Y R E

S E E N

R E I N D E E R

C U R L

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

B Y E

QUIZ

I A R C O N A B D I N D G O E S F O R M E M I R A A V N S E D A N A R A B N I V O R A L O G L E E O OM R I E G

N O N E I B I S

8 LETTERS ABROGATE ACADEMIA AVIATION FANDANGO GRAFFITI INFORMER OMNIVORE REINDEER

1. Ita buttrose was the founding editor of which Australian magazine? 2. Alf Roberts, a grocery shop owner in England, was the father of which famous woman? 3. Which TV detective is based at Denton police station? 4. If you nictitate, what do you do? 5. Which actress was Dr Quin? 6. Which actor has Scotland Forever tattooed on his arm? 7. How many times did Joe Frazier ﬁght Muhammad Ali? 8. Where was Joan of Arc burned at the stake?

T E E M

6 LETTERS DEPICT INDIGO REMIND TYPING

QUIZ

E D G E

5 LETTERS MIRES

NAVAL RIFTS SEDAN SERVE SPOOR

Y E A R

4 LETTERS AGED ALOE ARAB ARCS BOLE CLAM COUP CURL EDEN EDGE

ENVY GAIT GAME GOES IBIS IDEA IDLY INNS LEER LOAF NEAR NONE NORM SARI SAVE SEEN TEEM TIRE TRIO TYRE YEAR YETI

WORDFIT

S E E N

3 LETTERS BOA BYE EGO GOB MIG OAT ORE RAY RIG ROB ROE TIE

1. Cleo, 2. Margaret Thatcher, 3. Jack Frost, 4. Wink or blink, 5. Jane Seymour, 6. Sean Connery, 7. Three, 8. Rouen.

WORDFIT

Solution opposite

Good 17 Very Good 24 Excellent 31+

Fit the words into the grid to create a ﬁnished crossword

N G

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

648

WORD GO ROUND

TODAY

TRIO

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

ALPHAGRAMS

N P

donor door dorp down droop drop drown ﬁord fond food ford frond frown indoor info iron noir orpin pion pond poof poor prion prod prof proof prow rondo rood roof WINDPROOF wino wood woof word worn

R D

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

I F

WORD GO ROUND

ALPHAGRAMS

Down 1. Review (5) 2. Dismay (13) 3. Unmapped (9) 4. Appear (6) 5. Furrow (3) 6. State of unjustiﬁed happiness (5,8) 7. Makes certain (7) 11. Speeds up, facilitates (9) 12. Embarrassed (7) 14. Tolls (6) 17. Stiff (5) 19. Downcast (3)

Across 1. Hermit (7) 5. Firearm (5) 8. Diligent (13) 9. Tap (3) 10. Assailant (9) 12. Supply with oxygen (6) 13. Horriﬁes (6) 15. Left behind (9) 16. Tune (3) 18. Quibbling over details (13) 20. Ate (5) 21. Dangle (7)

MOCKS, NAILED, OPTIONS, PAINTING, QUIRKIEST.

JIGGERED

NORTHERN NSW

MAY, 2019// SENIORS