Northern NSW, January 2019 by seniors

January, 2019 FREE

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JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

LEANING INTO 2019

INDEX 3 News: Fearless, fabulous stars 6 Community group guide 8 What’s on 11 Talk ‘n’ Thoughts 12 Feature: Senior Australian of the Year 15 Feature: NSW Seniors Festival 23 Wanderlust 28 Wellbeing 31 Living 32 Money 34 Reviews 35 Puzzles

Good start for a good year

Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor WELCOME and happy new year readers. IT’S great to be able to start 2019 with a host of positive stories including a feature on next month’s annual NSW Seniors Festival. In this jam-packed edition we commence with a two-page feature on our Senior Australians of the Year. The recognition that comes with this honour allows us to look at the best of who we are. In the daily run of 24/7 news – which I follow through newspapers, current affair shows and online updates – I am often saddened when I read the worst of human nature. But when it comes to reading about the work carried out by the people named as Senior Australians of the Year, I am uplifted by their humanity. It shows that far beyond the concept of age, generosity of mind and spirit are key among the qualities that define us as human beings. Included with these outstanding personalities

are local stories highlighting community stars. Our page 3 story, features a great group of characters who have defied any and all age stereotypes. We also report on the older Australian Beauty Pageant winner, Beauty Queen of the Year and Ms World 2018, 60-year-old Robbie Canner, who believes that people “age themselves out of life” by developing negative connotations toward ageing. She is determined to “start a conversation” about positive ageing. I’m with Robbie – if we can keep a place inside of ourselves filled with hope, self-confidence, self-esteem , then there’s a good chance of a happy 2019.

Seniors Festival feature & events

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

Be fearless, embrace age Over-55 Beauty Pageant has many aspects

Alison Houston ROLE Model of the Year 2018, Suzi Dent, wants to help other women “celebrate and embrace being over 50”. The 56-year-old self-confessed ‘tomboy’ has undergone a transformation over the past two years, including winning the Australian title of Mrs Earth Health 2017 (and finishing third in the world). “I am hoping to inspire women to stop paying attention to their age number, be fearless about making changes in their lives and to celebrate their life experiences and knowledge,” Suzi said. It’s a sentiment embraced by her fellow Australian Beauty Pageant winner, Beauty Queen of the Year and Ms World 2018, 60-year-old Robbie Canner, from Sydney, who beat entrants from 22 countries aged from 26,

to the global title in June. Robbie, a sports therapist, believes that people “age themselves out of life” by developing negative connotations toward ageing, she is determined to “start a conversation” about positive ageing. It’s not all about looks for either woman, but about health, selfconfidence, self-esteem and zest for life. Robbie became involved in the Tour de Cure after her son Scott died of non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. She set up the Scott Canner Young Investigator Grant to help fund cancer research by young Australian academics, with more than $750,000 in grants already awarded. Suzi has been involved in Soles4Souls and more recently Friends with Dignity, who support victims of domestic violence. Despite the seemingly glamorous world in which

she worked as a television and advertising hair and make-up artist, Suzi said her go-to clothes have always been practical. She said she felt safer and more comfortable dressed down, avoiding both unwanted advances from men and comments from women. “By stepping out of my comfort zone, I’ve found my true, authentic self which had been hidden away... and that’s a wonderful thing to find in your 50s,” Suzi said. “Now I want to help other women step out too and achieve their dreams. “I want to see my age represented in the advertising on the walls of shops, and an acceptance that women come in all shapes, sizes and ages.” Full story: seniorsnews.com.au at www.suzident.com or call 0412 607 691.

QUEENS OF POSITIVITY: Gold Coaster and Role Model of the Year Suzi Dent and Beauty Queen of the Year and Ms World Robbie Canner. Photo: David Fuentes

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

NEWS

Fearless, fabulous stars Creative film challenges stereotypes of ageing Tania Phillips YOU don’t expect to become a movie star when you hit your 70s but that’s just what’s happened to a group of nine amazing people from the Byron-Tweed region. After answering an advertisement by Feros Care, Bakery Media Production and Screenworks in August last year, the Nimble Nine Northern Rivers Seniors, aged 75 and older, starred in a short film initiative – Fearless. The collection of inspirational films showcasing the bold lives of the seniors had their premier in Byron last month and have been live on YouTube since December 5. Organisers are hoping the films will go viral and even end up at film festivals. Feros CEO Jennene Buckley said the group was proud to release stories of seniors challenging the traditional views on ageing. “We are thrilled with the

TIMELESS: Feathers and Nina enjoy a laugh at the Byron Bay premiere of the movies. personalities and stories that this project has uncovered, and we’d love for these films to surprise, charm and inspire people,” she said. “Ultimately we’re confident that our nine Fearless seniors are going to crush those boring old stereotypes about growing older.” The Fearless nine were drawn mainly from the Byron/Brunswick area in the end, the call went out for people from Tweed to Ballina. They are: ■ Wendy Taylor, Suffolk Park (79) a creative force to be reckoned with a

large Instagram following and a mantra “don’t go beige with age”. ■ Margaret Fisher, Byron Bay (88): Byron Citizen of the Year in 2018 and World Seniors Tennis player. ■ Ballina’s Royden Ainsworth, Ballina (80) who is a seasoned jazz musician and composer. ■ Another Suffolk Park resident, Julie Crow (76) challenged herself to swing upside down from a circus trapeze for the first time for her film. ■ Lismore/Tweed sailor Peter Warner (87) who sails yachts and organises drones to

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Stars of the The Fearless Nine. capture images of his trips. ■ The oldest member of the group is 97-year-old Nina Milenko Marzi of Byron who credits drumming, dancing, friendship and shopping for her long life and her colourful Bay lifestyle. ■ Ballina resident Klaas Nierop, (87) and his dog Wolfie live on a boat in Ballina Harbour and he kayaks, cycles and visits the gym.

■ Berenice Lancaster, (77) is a self-confessed swimming addict and swims across Byron Bay every morning she is just back from an Ocean-trek holiday swimming around the Greek Islands. ■ And last but not least is local Byron legend Feather Thompson (82), who refuses to change and is still dancing up a storm to live bands and sunbaking naked. Screenworks CEO Ken

Crouch said he was impressed by the Fearless participants. “One of the most incredible things about this initiative has been the commitment shown by the seniors since the initial application stage. Many of them have genuinely stepped up and learnt new skills,” he said. View the series trailer and the films at feroscare. com.au/fearlessfilms.

NEWS

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

A vision is the start to story TWEED Coast writer Nette Hilton has never met illustrator Lucinda Gifford but her editor thinks she would really like her. And Nette, 72, thinks she’s pretty right given Lucinda has just illustrated the prolific writer’s latest creation bringing to life the brilliantly individual Princess Peony in a way that is very much her own vision of the character too. The pair have only really communicated through an editor so far but if this one is a success who knows. “Lucinda’s work is just fabulous,” Nette said of drawings in her latest book The First Adventures of Princess Peony which has hit all good book shops just in time to be a fun summer read for children of all ages (and one that even those a bit older than that will enjoy reading too). A second adventure has

Nette Hilton’s children’s book.

latest

already been written and is expected to be out midway through the year. Ask Nette where she came from and you get an insight into how this teacher turned writer ticks. She said the original idea came from seeing a young girl in the library in bright red tights and a tutu – it was years ago, and she stored the image away along with other incidents from her own life (including a story of her granddaughter when she was young not wanting to go to bed) until they all

just came out and fell into place. “Princess P just sort of happened,” she explained. “I was playing around with them (the stories) for a while before I sent them off to my agent. We offered them to a couple of places, but Walker Books picked them up pretty quickly.” And so Nette’s writing journey continues – a journey that started 30 years ago when her daughter was going through a period of hating school and she wanted to help. Not finding a book for that situation, she wrote one herself. A friend was enlisted to illustrate it and suggested that they have it published – the year was 1988, the book was the beloved The Long Red Scarf. Between 75 and 100 books from picture books to young adult fiction have followed since including The Proper Little Lady which is now considered an Australian classic.

BOOKWORMS: Nette Hilton and her niece with her brand-new book The First Adventures of Princess Peony.

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Tania Phillips

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

NEWS

Healing sounds of voice Tania Phillips WELL-KNOWN Tweed musician and performer Andrea Szabo has plenty of strings to her bow. While she has released albums and performed at many venues across the North Coast, Andrea is becoming better known for her work as a practising clinical hypnotherapist and sound healer. She is currently working at both the Vital Energy Massage Rooms in Murwillumbah and at Happiness in Health at West Burleigh. Through her lifetime of study and music Andrea is looking to combine her knowledge of hypnotherapy, healing, music, clairvoyance/intuition and

creativity for the benefit of others. “I have an understanding of holistic anatomical and mental health, brain plasticity, metaphysics, energy medicine, community issues, the creative process, and vibrational medicine which I hope ensures the receiver gets the best treatment and most beneficial outcome,” she said. Andrea has had her own struggles with health issues. “I decided a progressive, degenerative, life-threatening condition known as idiopathic syringomyelia wasn’t going to stop me back in the ’90s,” she said. In fact, it was the catalyst that led her to this very special healing

MULTI-TALENTED: Performer Andrea Szabo with her partner Geordie Leach. INSET: Sing Sisters in action. method. “Sound healing is a form of vibrational medicine where voice and instruments are used with the intention of enhancing, healing and rejuvenating the mind, body and spirit,” she said. “This modality has been effectively used for eons by many cultures in healing rituals. Mothers sing to babies to soothe, heavy metal can irritate, and special vibrations can heal. “Thank goodness

people now have places to get treatment holistically. We are so much more than just a body (chemistry), mind (thoughts) and a spirit (signature life force), so why not address all three to ensure recovery, health and happiness.” Andrea uses drums, crystal bowls, synthesised frequencies, and the human voice to create healing, relaxation and regeneration Using music for healing

seems a natural progression for Andrea whose professional career began in the ’80s and ’90s after finishing a Performing Arts degree at the University of Western Sydney. On the road throughout the late ’90s, her songbook repertoire took her to five-star venues all over Australia where she

discovered a love of jazz and worked on developing her amazing three-octave range. She is currently singing and recording with partner and former Rose Tattoo member Geordie Leach as part of the Geordie Leach band as well as running the Sing Sisters fun singing group on the Gold Coast.

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Community notes

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

VIEW CLUBS

Coolangatta Tweed WE ARE proud to present International Women’s Day in 2019 and look forward to welcoming women from other VIEW Clubs, service organisations and the general public to this very important event on Friday, March 8. It will be held at South Tweed Sports Club on Minjungbal Dr at South Tweed Heads commencing with morning tea at 10am DST. It will feature an excellent program of influential and inspiring women including a previous Learning for Life student. Light refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the event and a trading table will be available. The cost for the event is $16 and bookings may be made by contacting Coolangatta Tweed VIEW Club president Penelope Thorpe on (07) 5534 3931 before March 1.

U3A

Tweed Coast WE ARE holding a special information and enrolment day from 10am-2pm on January 24 at the Seventh Day Adventist Church Hall, Phillip St, Chinderah. Come along and chat to our friendly group leaders

about the different activities, from painting to languages, book clubs to tennis, computers to dancing. It costs just $40 to join. For more information, phone Jeni on 0401 821 681 or go to tweedcoast.u3a net.org.au. Twin Towns WE INVITE you to come along to our information and open mornings from 9am-noon on Tuesday, January 15 and 29 and Wednesday, January 23 at 4 Boyd St, Tugun. You can meet our tutors to discuss the classes and activities we will hold weekly in 2019. There is something for everyone. No special clothing for any of our classes, just wear something comfortable. Classes for the new and old hands include physical activities and inner health, arts and craft, games, music, languages, general interest and computing. For more information, phone (07) 5534 7333 or email u3a1office@gmail.com.

TECH SAVVY SENIORS

TWIN Towns and ACE Community Colleges are offering a free course to help Northern NSW seniors unlock the mystery of smart phones, iPads and tablets, learn

CRUISING IN STYLE: Members of the Kirra-Tugun Probus Club boarded The Lady Brisbane on her regular cruise through Moreton Bay on a glorious day to Hamilton. how to shop and bank online, and engage with family and friends on social media and Skype. Delivered in partnership with the NSW Government and Telstra, Tech Savvy Seniors provides free training to help older people learn to make the most of the digital world. The Tech Savvy Seniors program proves age is no barrier to learning about the online world, with one graduate, Twin Towns member Harry Birkin, completing the course just a few days shy of 100 years young. Each Tech Savvy Senior course runs for five weeks and all classes are held in the Anzac Room at Twin Towns. Courses are available during March, April and May and bookings are essential. Applicants must be NSW residents and over 60 years of age. These courses are extremely popular and will fill quickly so register now to avoid missing out. Phone Maria at ACE Community Colleges on (07) 5520 3026 to discuss the dates to book your spot.

PROBUS CLUBS

Kirra-Tugun MEMBERS boarded The

Lady Brisbane on her regular cruise through Moreton Bay on a glorious day to Hamilton. We were informed and entertained by the captain’s commentary. The crew prepared and we enjoyed morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea. For retired and semi-retired men and women, the club provides a diverse range of social and healthy pastimes We meet at Currumbin RSL at 10am on the fourth Thursday of each month. For more information, phone Rod on 0438 341 909.

HEALTH WEALTH AND LIFESTYLE EXPO FOR THE OVER 50S

WELCOME to the inaugural Health Wealth and Lifestyle Expo for the over 50s to be held at the South Tweed Sports Club on Thursday, February 7 from 9am-1pm. Entry is free. This and future events will cater for baby boomers and seniors with expos also to be held at Bribie Island and Northern NSW areas on an annual basis. The exhibitors will be offering you information on services such as hearing and eyesight

checks, specialists in senior’s travel, funeral services, financial planners, legal advice, residential aged care providers, in-home care providers, mobility aids, senior’s insurance and much more. The expos are run by One Purpose One Solution Foundation, a private not-for-profit organisation, and as such costs will be kept to a minimum for exhibitors. Make a day of it and have a delicious morning tea or lunch upstairs in the bistro. For more information or to book a site, phone Adrian on 0419 709 661.

TWIN TOWNS & DISTRICT GARDEN CLUB

OUR next meeting will be on Monday, February 11 at the South Tweed Sports Club, Minjungbal Drive, South Tweed in the downstairs auditorium. Guest speaker for February will be Country Women’s Association’s Jaqui Strudwick, Kingscliff branch and another surprise speaker. Our guest speaker in January was a huge success giving tips on floral art. The hall opens at 8.30am (NSW) or entry and benching. Cuttings and trading tables will commence selling at 8.45am, so come along and snap up a bargain. Morning tea is available with the general meeting commencing at 10am. Cost is $4 entry fee, paid at the door. Raffles, lucky door prizes and much more. Hope to see you there, bring a friend and a coffee mug to help save the planet. For more information, phone Monika Ross on 0412 638 373 or go to twintownsgardenclub. com.

SENIORS AT TINTENBAR HALL

The Twin Towns latest Tech Savvy Seniors graduates from ACE Community Colleges.

ACTIVITIES for Seniors at Tintenbar Hall for January and February include carpet bowls:

fortnightly on a Friday 10am-noon, January 11 and 25 and February 8 and 22. Phone Marg on (02) 6687 8033 for more information.

THE CHANNON CRAFT MARKET

WE PROUDLY support local business and individuals, with more than 240 stalls displaying and providing services and products, community organisations networking and fundraising, street performers, main stage and children’s activities. The market has operated for more than 41 years. Full of regional colour, diversity and a stimulating environment, it is a must do when visiting the area and beyond. The Channon Craft Market is a pet-free event. The next market is on February 10 from 9am-3pm at Coronation Park, The Channon Rd, The Channon. It’s about 1.5 hours from the Gold Coast, 45 minutes from Byron Bay and 20 minutes from Lismore and Nimbin.

BALLINA COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB INC.

HUNGER quenching country music with Ann, Bill, Jill & Maurie - ever popular in the Northern Rivers for great harmonising Country music and dance band. Country music fans and musos alike in Ballina have been starved of music over the break and our fantastic band of ‘walk up artists’ will be on deck to satisfy music hunger pangs. Ballina Country Music Club welcomes Country Music musos from all walks of life wishing to perform three songs either by themselves or with the backing band, (copies of Lyrics/Chords please.) Looking forward to seeing you there. For more information phone Vice president and Secretary Keith Holmes on (02) 6686 7956, 0400 867 956 or email holmeskm@bigpond.com.

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

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BALLINA BRICK EVENT

THE biggest Lego Fan Expo is coming to Ballina on January 19-20. The Ballina Brick Event is set to showcase amazing dioramas, custom Lego creations from many talented local brick builders who will be exhibiting creations built entirely from Lego. The Ballina Brick Event is a Lego fan event for all ages and will be one of the AUSSIE ICONS: Brian Cadd and Russell Morris (left) are back to perform a limited number of shows including Twin Towns on January 25.

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

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NIMBIN FARMERS MARKET

THE Nimbin Farmers’ Market on January 16 is a great opportunity to buy fresh produce with very limited food miles, including bread, meat, vegetables, tofu, cheeses and other seasonal fruit and vegies. All produce is grown locally, by local farmers, for the enjoyment and health benefits of locals and visitors to the village. The free event is held from 3-6pm at the Green Bank carpark, 39 Cullen St, Nimbin. Phone Jason on (02) 6689 1512 for more information.

the Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens meet to help maintain the gardens. Bring water bottle, hat, gloves, sturdy shoes and wear long pants and long-sleeved shirt. The free event is held from 7.30-11am at the Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens.

TWEED COAST ENDURO

DAHLIA SHOW SET FOR FEBRUARY

ST MARK’S Anglican Church at Casino will hold the annual Dahlia and Flower Show in February – final date to be confirmed. Starting at 8.30am and finishing at 12.30pm, there will be a variety of stalls, cooking, sweets, produce, plants and raffles as well as the competition. Entries must be received between 7.30am and 9am with judging taking place at 10am, welcome at 10.30am and the presentation of trophies at noon. Morning tea will be available from 9am and lunch from 11.30am. Gold coin admission.

SUNDAY WORKDAY AT THE GARDENS

We are committed to helping the elderly, disabled & housebound people in the community. By providing healthy & tasty meals to help people live independently in their own homes. Flexible daily or weekly deliveries Wide variety of meals delivered hot, chilled or frozen

ON THE last Sunday of every month (January 27 in this case) the Friends of

THE fifth annual Tweed Coast Holiday Parks Enduro will be held on Saturday, February 16. The event offers triathlon racing on a long course (1.9 kilometre swim, 90 kilometre cycle, 21.1 kilometre run) for individuals in social (entry level) or competitive age groups; and teams in either the tag or all in format. The Enduro will complete the Tweed multisport package, which includes two Kingscliff Triathlons and the Battle Recharge, both of which have become marquee sports tourism events. The Enduro continues the fine tradition of delivering simple, enjoyable, well-executed events in desirable destinations and creates a triathlete’s athletic pathway. Go to tweedenduro.com.au.

THE ARTISTS CHOICE

THE Artist’s Choice is an annual show at Blue Knob Hall Gallery. It has no theme and will be held until February 2. Artists bring in whatever they want to exhibit without the usual constrictions to work to. The exhibition has a variety of mediums including paintings, sculpture, fibre, pottery and installations. The gallery and cafe will be

open on Saturdays only during this period for The Blue Knob Farmers Market. The event is held Thursday, Friday 10am-3pm, Saturday 8.30am-3pm and Sunday 10am-3pm. It is a free event at the Blue Knob Hall Gallery, 719 Blue Knob Rd, Lillian Rock. Phone (02) 6689 7449.

BRIAN CADD AND RUSSELL MORRIS

AUSTRALIAN music icons Brian Cadd and Russell Morris have been friends for more than 40 years and have been touring together from time to time over the past decades. They are back after a seven-year break to perform a limited number of shows including Twin Towns on January 25. Their show is a relentless sequence of hit songs, laughter and mockery. Go to twintowns.com.au/ events/brian-caddrussell-morris.

CURRUMBIN WILDLIFE HOSPITAL VET TALK

LOVE bats? Join us and Bats QLD for our Vet Talk on bats and how we treat them at the wildlife hospital. We invite our Friends of the Hospital to come along to our quarterly talks with Senior Vet Dr Micheal Pyne, as well as to experience the hospital and go behind the scenes to meet some furry patients. Our next talk is on January 17. To become a Friend of the Hospital for a $50, $250 or $500 donation, phone (07) 5534 0882. Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, 27 Millers Drive, Currumbin.

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Myth and magic art portrayed in show

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THE Northern Rivers is a beautiful healing place, according to Nimbin artist Phillippa Leader. It is that thought that has inspired at least some of the paintings that will be on display at the Northern

Rivers Community Gallery in Ballina this month. Phillippa and her friend Ann Belle are presenting a combined exhibition entitled Myth and Magic. Ann will present a series of pastel drawings

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which relate to her lifelong interest in myth and mysticism while Phillippa’s work explores her response to the lifestyle she lives in the lush subtropical bush on a community in the Nimbin region. Phillippa paints figures using motifs and designs connected to the alternative scene and its roots. “I went out west to teach and I couldn’t stop painting where I live in Nimbin,” Phillippa said. “The beauty of the land and the spirit of the place.” What emerged is a swirl of dancing figures, colour and joy of what she describes as a a place of healing. Phillippa currently runs an over 50s art class in Lismore each week The exhibition in Ballina is open between January 16 to March 10.

NEWS

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SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

NEWS

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

Has age-at-home push gone too far Gail Forrer Group Editor AT one point over the past few years, my friends’ conversations often noted how difficult it was gain services which would enable their elderly parents to stay in their homes. These days the conversation is changing to one of wondering if the push towards people ageing in independent accommodation has gone too far. For instance, I was recently in conversation with a friend who said: “My father is 92-years-old. “I think he should be in a home where he can have 24/7 care but these days the government is pushing the stay-at-home philosophy and doing everything they can to keep them at home, even

if it doesn’t seem right.” It’s not the first time I’ve heard this sentiment expressed. It’s hard to get it right all the time and personal observation tells me that most people wish to stay in their own home, even if this isn’t the best choice for their extended family or safest for them. These days, retirement villages offering staged accommodation to suit changing health needs can provide a segway between independent living and full-time nursing home care. Yet, without doubt, the opportunity to stay in independent living accommodation is rising with the advancement of technology. In fact, a trial of a new high-tech movement monitoring system designed to help senior Australians live safely in their own homes for longer begins this year. The Federal Government has invested $260,000 in the system, which allows early

detection and intervention should safety issues arise for older people living at home. Federal Minister for Senior Australians and Aged Care, Ken Wyatt, said the Monitoring Data Response Solution (MDRS) was Australian innovation at its best. “It enables remote monitoring and tracking of an aged care recipient’s daily routine, to help prevent misadventure or possible deterioration in their wellbeing,” he said. “A nominated individual, such as a family member, will receive notifications when the care recipient’s behaviour deviates from their regular routine. “The government is committed to meeting the wishes of senior Australians, the majority of whom want more help to live at home. “While there will never be a substitute for the value of personal visits and community connections in supporting

our senior Australians, leading-edge technology like this has great potential to improve independence and support sustainable home aged care.” Mr Wyatt said Ericom will partner with a number of residential aged care services to trial the system in the homes of 50 senior Australians. The University of Wollongong will evaluate the trial, with the final report to be publicly available to share the potential benefits of the technology across the aged care sector. The $260,000 was made available through the $34 million Dementia and Aged Care Services fund, which supported innovative projects to improve seniors’ quality of life and the government’s aged care reform agenda. source: National Seniors ■ If you would like to comment on this or any other topic, please email us at editor@seniorsnews .com.au

Talk 'n' thoughts

CHOICES: Do the options available suit you.

Photo: Thinsktock

‘‘

personal observation tells me that most people wish to age in their own home

Make 2019 the year you switch to solar

AUSTRALIA’S household electricity bills have doubled in the last five years, so it’s no secret that more and more Australians are making the switch to solar in a bid to drastically reduce their electricity bills. The latest Renewable Energy Index figures report more than 8,500 homes across Qld and NSW installed solar in the month of October delivering cumulative savings of $100 million dollars in power bill reduction over the next ten years. Isn’t it time you got on board? Right now, investing in solar delivers serious and immediate returns. SAE Group have yet another compelling offer that will make the switch easy for you. This high quality 6.6kW solar bundle comprised of the 5kW Solax X1 inverter, and 24 x 275watt Seraphim panels, for just $4,695. We understand it might seem complicated to get a real understanding of what your returns might be on a solar system, so let’s take a look at just how good the benefits are so you can make an informed decision. According to the Clean Energy Council the average hours of sunlight a day across the year is 4.2 hours, so we will use this as the base to calculate the solar generation. Based on 4.2 hours a day, a 6.6kW system will generate 28kW of clean energy every day. Now let’s say you self-consume 50%, or 14kW your total solar generation each day. Based on today’s average electricity charges of .28c/kW, by cutting your reliance on the grid by 50%, you stand to make a saving of $3.92 each day. That might not seem much but over the course of a year that’s $1,430 back in your pocket. Then there’s the other 50% of your solar production that you can export back to the grid. Based on today’s average solar feed in tariffs you’re looking at anywhere from 8 cents to 15 cents, depending on your electricity retailer. Let’s base our calculations somewhere in the middle… if you are exporting the remaining 50% at 12 cents per kW, that’s another saving of $1.68 cents per day, or a further $613 a year you’ll save in electricity costs. That’s a whopping total of $2,043 per year in electricity savings alone, which equates to a payback period of just over two years, leaving years ahead of you of pure savings.

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FEATURE

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

EACH STATE’S SENIOR AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR

Our top Seniors WE ARE proud to introduce you to eight senior Australians who are outstanding contributors to our community and to its wellbeing in a wide variety

Sally Wise, the Tasmanian Senior Australian of the Year.

of ways. Each of these people are winners of their state Senior Australian of the Year award and are in the running for the ultimate national accolade, Senior

Australian of the Year in 2019, to be announced on January 26. They have shared with Seniors News how they will use their raised profile in 2019.

Photo: Alastair Bett

TAS - Sally Wise, 67 SALLY is a kitchen guru, author and media presenter who is dedicated to equipping people with the knowledge to prepare nourishing food with accessible ingredients. In 2006 she received a request from a radio presenter to discuss jams and preserves. It led to Sally’s book A Year in a Bottle which sold thousands of copies. It was the first of 15 popular cookbooks. Sally launched a program at Risdon prison to teach soon-to-be

released inmates cooking skills. She also speaks to community groups to promote better nutrition using accessible ingredients. In addition, Sally helps new businesses in the food sector to optimise their recipes and techniques. “This past year has cemented my pathway and passion for the year to come, through chance encounters in cooking programs I have conducted. It has made me realise that there are silent, uncomplaining,

James Dale, the Queensland Senior of the Year.

often unnoticed groups within the community that would truly benefit from ‘companionable’ cookery – where the cooking and recipes are, as a natural part of the process, a catalyst to communication, between generations, cultures, at all levels of society. “My goal is to seek out such groups and place increased focus on the positive social, as well as inherent nutritional, benefits from preparing never-fail, delicious dishes made from readily accessible ingredients.”

Photo: Louise Bagger

SA - Reginald Dodd, 78 THE Arabunna elder used a Roget’s Thesaurus to interpret complex legislation and made his first Native Title claim in 1998. At Reg’s initiative the Arabunna Marree People was created with lawyers across Australia providing pro-bono assistance.

With a LAMP lawyer, Reg also co-designed and co-taught a law course at RMIT on country. “I will take this opportunity to create a dialogue with the government that will deliver and provide quality essential service to remote towns and

communities. My plan is to consult with the public through meetings and talks. I will continue the cross-cultural tours that have been a great success over the last 20 years or so. I will also continue the work with LAMP on heritage and cultural issues.”

Photo: Renae Droop, Richard Walker

QLD - Professor James Dale AO, 68 THE scientist, researcher and humanitarian has led significant research programs in agricultural biotechnology. His work includes seeking a solution to Vitamin A deficiency which can lead to death or blindness with children in developing countries particularly susceptible, and genetically modifying bananas, the staple diet in many poor countries.

Reginald Dodd, the South Australian Senior of the Year.

“Within the next 30 years our climate will degenerate and the world population will grow to more than nine billion. Together these will have a major impact on food and nutrition security. “Most of the population increase will be in the tropics and sub-tropics. Australia is one of the very few developed countries with tropical regions and tropical

agriculture. “I will use this award to stress that Australia has an opportunity or maybe a responsibility to be a major contributor to the development of the next versions of our tropical crops to alleviate this impending food and nutritional insecurity. Importantly, to do this we will need to mobilise all the technologies we have available.”

Dr Sue Packer, the ACT Senior Australian of the Year.

Photo: Contributed

ACT - Dr Sue Packer AM, 76 PAEDIATRICIAN and child advocate Dr Packer fights for the rights of children in the healthcare system and wider community. “My intention is to use my profile to encourage all Australians to think seriously about the experiences and challenges for all children

growing up in Australia in the 21st century. There is much we could all do to improve their lives and opportunities as they grow up, particularly considering the comparative wealth of Australia. “When we think about our children and their

vulnerabilities and the options we have to improve their lives, many of the possible measures would also be of benefit to vulnerable groups of adults, in particular the elderly and those with disabilities, to enable them to live fuller and more satisfying lives”.

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

FEATURE

EACH STATE’S SENIOR AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR

Heather Lee, the NSW Senior Australian of the Year.

Photo: Salty Dingo

Alison Harcourt, the Victorian Senior Australian of the Year.

NSW - Heather Lee OAM, 92

VIC - Alison Harcourt, 89

SHE is an unstoppable Australian. Heather started walking regularly late in life – signing up for a series of fun runs in her late 70s – and discovering she was actually quite quick. In 2011, at her physiotherapist’s suggestion, Heather competed in the Australian Masters Games, just before her 85th birthday – winning four gold medals. In 2012 Heather set a new Australian record for

ALISON is now best known for developing integer linear programming, the basis of efficient computer processing. “I’ve always loved numbers, so one of my aims is to try to convey that love to others. “This feeling is one which I believe anyone can absorb, but I’m aware that many people acquired a fear of numbers when they were

5km race walking for her age group. Later that year, at the Australian Masters Track and Field Championships, she broke three Australian records; the 10km (84m 06.00s), the 1500m (11m 36.90s) and her own 5km (41m 25.40s). Currently, Heather holds eight Australian and five world records. Heather has been a member of the local Hawkesbury Cancer Support Group for many years and was the 2018

Cancer Council March Charge Ambassador. Remarkably, she is one of the few who walks the full 24 hours of the Hawkesbury Relay for Life “I am the message,” Heather said. “Independence is vital. Make wellness your goal with diet, lifestyle and exercise to nurture your body, mind and spirit. “I never define myself by age and never define anyone else by age, because getting old is an achievement.”

young which they have not been able to shake off. “We should recognise that we are using numbers all the time, to measure temperature or the ingredients to make a cake, to knit a jumper or to check at what date in spring we should plant tomato seedlings. “Specifically, from the experience of using numbers and listening to how others use them, we can expand our

Ian Frank Mallard, the WA Senior Australian of the Year. Charlie King, the Northern Territory Senior Australian of the Year.

NT - Charlie King OAM, 67 THE veteran sports broadcaster and human rights campaigner in 2008 became the first Indigenous Australian to commentate at an Olympics. Charlie initiated the zero-tolerance campaign ‘NO MORE’ which has links with more than five sporting codes and nearly 100 individual sports teams.

“My vision is to contribute to an Australian community where all of its members feel safe,” he said. “The elimination of violence requires a monumental shift in the way that Australian’s view domestic violence. “I think that it is vitally important to connect with diverse groups of people, including seniors from

across Australia to harness their knowledge and to develop constructive actions that can lead to change. “This provides an opportunity to recognise the contribution that senior Australians and all Australians can make in influencing a change in the attitudes and beliefs that lead to domestic and family violence.”

Photo: Gavin Blue

appreciation of the wide world of mathematics. “More generally, we should ask older people about their life journey. We should also consider, rather than dismiss, creative people who want to challenge old ways. We should respect the enthusiasm of youth and the wisdom of immigrants. “Put simply, we should be open to other people’s ideas.”

Photo: MCB Photographics

WA - Frank Mallard, 73 THE Yamatji elder, ex-serviceman and volunteer is an ambassador and advocate for the contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander servicemen and women. He served in the Army and Army Reserves.. Despite PTSD and Parkinson’s, Frank is a dedicated veterans’ issues volunteer and chair of Voice of the Voiceless Ministry. “I would like to go back

to the old ways in Australia where we had the welfare of our families uppermost in our minds. To the days when the older members of family were cared for by the family and not sent off to an aged care facility. “I know that that cannot happen, so I would use my position to indulge my passion of caring for the less fortunate in our society, to make the community aware of the mental health problems

faced by our military and the youth, and to bring comfort to the homeless and marginalised in our cities, by providing free health care, meals and shelter, to those who can’t afford it. “We are acclaimed as the ‘lucky country’, but we have many people who would not think that. Some of them have served their country, but their country has forgotten them. Lest we forget.”

NEWS

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Good start for good year START the new year well by following the Australian Dietary Guidelines top four health tips for older Australians.

Limit intake of foods and drinks containing added salt. Read labels to choose lower sodium options among similar foods. ■ Do not add extra salt to foods in cooking or at the table. Limit intake of foods and drinks containing added sugars such as confectionery, sugarsweetened soft drinks and cordials, fruit drinks, vitamin waters, energy and sports drinks. If you choose to drink alcohol, please limit your intake.

ACHIEVE AND MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT

Be physically active and choose amounts of nutritious foods and drinks to meet your energy needs. Older people should eat nutritious foods and keep physically active to help maintain muscle strength and a healthy weight.

CHOOSE FROM THESE FIVE GROUPS EVERY DAY

■ Plenty of vegetables, including different types and colours, and legumes/beans. ■ Fruit. ■ Grain (cereal) foods, mostly wholegrain and/or high cereal fibre varieties, such as bread, cereals, rice, pasta, noodles, polenta, couscous, oats, quinoa and barley. ■ Lean meats and poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, nuts and seeds, and legumes/ beans. ■ Milk, yoghurt, cheese

CARE FOR YOUR FOOD - PREPARE AND STORE IT SAFELY

HAPPY APPROACH: Start your new year well with these simple, healthy lifestyle tips. and/or their alternatives, mostly reduced fat (reduced fat milks are not suitable for children under two years). And drink plenty of water.

LIMIT SATURATED

FAT, ADDED SALT, ADDED SUGARS AND ALCOHOL

Limit biscuits, cakes, pastries, pies, processed meats, commercial burgers, pizza, fried foods, potato chips, crisps and other savoury

PETTING ZOOS, SPRAY PAINT AND ARM CHAIR YOGA

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I’m more social now than when I was 50! Every other day I’ve got a social trip, an exercise class, arts and craft or some other kind of fun and entertainment. This week the petting zoo is coming to the village, it’s just marvellous! Feros Villages provide an enriched, independent lifestyle in a safe and secure environment together with the reassurance of 24-hour care.

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snacks. ■ Replace high fat foods which contain predominantly saturated fats such as butter, cream, cooking margarine, coconut and palm oil with foods which contain

predominantly polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats such as oils, spreads, nut butters/pastes and avocado. ■ Low-fat diets are not suitable for children under the age of 2.

Incorrect handling of food and storing food at inappropriate temperatures are the major causes of food poisoning. Particular care should be taken when handling food to be consumed by people who have an increased risk of foodborne illness, such as pregnant women, infants, older people and people with certain medical conditions.

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

FEATURE

Starting to think about aged care? Talk to Whiddon today to learn about:

Getting started with aged care The range of services available Aged care costs and charges Help with accessing MyAgedCare

Enquire today

whiddon.com.au 1300 738 388

FEATURE

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

2019 NSW SENIORS FESTIVAL

Festival is just for you

Gail Forrer Group Editor WELCOME to our special feature celebrating the annual NSW Seniors Festival. Themed ‘Love your Life’, the festival – held from February 13-24 – has attracted government funding for 120 organisations to host events and activities in Sydney and regional areas during the festival. If you have felt like extending your circle of friends, trying out a new activity, or just wanting to add a little zest to your life, then this really is your opportunity to make it happen. Minister for Ageing Tanya Davies encourages seniors to make the most of the festival and to get involved in as many local events across New South Wales as possible. “The NSW Government wants to celebrate seniors and create exciting opportunities for older people to get out in the community, kick up their heels and meet others while sharing new experiences,” Mrs Davies said. The Premier’s Gala Concerts and Seniors Expo will be held during the festival at the International Convention Centre, Darling Harbour. Dates and tickets will be announced soon. Locally, you will find plenty to do in our Calendar of Events.

FEELS LIKE FAMILY: Care services also help support older people living at home to stay connected to family, friends, interests and the community, which is important in reducing feelings of loneliness. Deb is sharing a laugh with staff member Julie. Photos: Kerry Wilson

Helping older people stay at home longer

AS AUSTRALIA’S population ages and more care options become available, older people are increasingly choosing to stay living at home – where they are comfortable and happy – for as long as possible. Access to personalised care and support that’s tailored to suit each person’s health needs, well-being goals and lifestyle, help make this a possibility. Not-for-profit aged care specialists Whiddon offer flexible in-home care and support services through government-funded Home Care Packages, or private payment. Whiddon’s home care services range from support with personal care, transport to medical appointments, help around the home and gardening; to assistance from a Registered Nurse to help get you back on

Offering flexible in-home care and support services. your feet after illness or injury. Care services also help support older people living at home to stay connected to family, friends, interests and the community, which is important in reducing feelings of loneliness. This could be through

transport to attend events, trips and holidays, or a care worker accompanying an older person to a special family event. Home care packages provide governmentsubsidised care to support older people to continue living safely and

independently at home. There are four levels of Home Care Packages to meet different care and support needs, which is based on the outcome of an Aged Care Assessment. Each care package level receives a certain amount of funding from the

Why did I choose Whiddon? Everyone feels like family

Residential Care

Award-winning food 24 hour care Private rooms with ensuite bathrooms Award-winning wellbeing programs

government that can be used to pay for care and support services. Packages are designed to be flexible to suit health care needs as they change. Home care funding can often be difficult to navigate. Whiddon is happy to offer advice on not only the best way to apply, but also how to optimise your current Home Care Package to ensure you are getting the most value from your funding. If you’re thinking about a home care package, Whiddon can help you understand the different types of care available and help you navigate aged care, every step of your journey.

To find our more, talk to a friendly Whiddon team member on 1300 738 388 or go to whiddon.com.au.

Enquire today whiddon.com.au 1300 738 388

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

FEATURE

2019 NSW SENIORS FESTIVAL

A diverse calendar of events for Northern NSW TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 12

■ Move it or lose it 2-5pm We are celebrating NSW Seniors Festival this year with a focus on wellbeing. Join our “Move it or lose it” class, a gentle low impact exercise class that you can easily replicate at home. Followed by an introduction to the FoodREDi Program, which assists participants to equip families and individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to eat a healthy, balanced diet on a budget. Venue: Evans Head and Coraki, TBA. Cost: Free Contact: Jill Samuels at Mid Richmond Neighbourhood Centre. Phone (02) 6682 4334. Bookings essential. ■ Mobile Library stop 2pm Venue: Clifford Street, Suffolk Park. ■ Mobile Library stop 10.15am Venue: Ocean Shores Community Centre, Rajah Rd, Ocean Shores.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 13

■ Move it or lose it 2-5pm We are celebrating NSW Seniors Festival this year with a focus on wellbeing. Join our “Move it or lose it” class, a gentle low impact exercise class that you can easily replicate at home. Followed by an introduction to the FoodREDi Program, which assists participants to equip families and individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to eat a healthy, balanced diet on a budget. Venue: Evans Head and Coraki, TBA, Evans Head and Coraki. Cost: Free Contact: Jill Samuels – Mid Richmond Neighbourhood Centre. Phone 02 6682 4334. Bookings essential. ■ Mobile Library stop 11.15am Venue: Wardell Public

pick up a coffee at Harvest Deli in the quaint village of Newrybar then pop down to the old bakery for traditional sourdough, pastries, baguettes, doughnuts and all kinds of treats. Venue: 18-22 Old Pacific Highway, Newrybar. Cost: Purchase items. Contact: Phone (02) 6687 2644. ■ Mobile Library stop 9.30am Venue: Bangalow Public School, Byron St, Bangalow.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17

CELEBRATE LIFE: NSW Seniors Festival activities and events will be incorporating the theme ‘Love Your Life’. Join in at Evans Head for the ‘Move it or lose it’ exercise class. School, Richmond St, Wardell. ■ Mobile Library stop 2.15pm Venue: Wollongbar Shopping Centre, Simpson Ave, Wollongbar.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14

■ Jam’n’Songs 1-3pm During the NSW Seniors Festival, Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre will host a free pop-up, live music, interactive concert and afternoon tea of scones, jam and cream for seniors. The Neighbourhood Centre’s own in-house and guest performers will entertain seniors with renditions of a variety of songs from the audience’s generation, within a format of crowd participation. This interaction will include group singing and

percussion sessions to enhance the musical performances and provide enjoyable experiences for the audience. The Master of Ceremonies will guide and encourage participation throughout the concert. Given the event’s timing, ie coinciding with Valentine’s Day, the song selection will focus on love songs from bygone eras. Audience requests will be accommodated where possible and the emphasis will be on having fun, establishing new and maintaining current connections with peers and others to reminisce, within a safe and easily accessible community space. Venue: Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre, 12A Elizabeth St, Pottsville Beach. Cost: Free Contact: Paul Riddett –

PBNC. Phone (02) 6676 4555 by February 7. Bookings essential. ■ V Day One Billion Rising 6.30am for a 7am dance One Billion Rising is the biggest mass action to end violence against women in human history. The campaign, launched on Valentine’s Day 2012, began as a call to action based on the staggering statistic that one in three women on the planet will be beaten or raped during her lifetime. With the world population at seven billion, this adds up to more than one billion women and girls. Venue: Main Beach, Byron Bay. Cost: Free Contact: 1800 961 981. ■ Mobile Library stop 9.15am Venue: Blakebrook Public School, 417

Rosehill Rd, Blakebrook. ■ Mobile Library stop 10.45am Venue: Nimbin Neighbourhood and Information Centre, 71 Cullen St, Nimbin (closed for lunch 12.30-1.30pm).

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15

■ Mobile Library stop 9.45am Venue: Philip St, Pottsville (Closed for lunch noon-1pm).

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16

■ Sourdough Weekend 8-10am If delicious sourdough, cakes and pastries straight from a 100-year-old historic wood-fired oven sounds perfect to you, then don’t miss Sourdough Weekends at Harvest. Saturday and Sunday morning between 8-10am,

Thanks to Whiddon I’m still home At Whiddon, we provide personalised health, wellbeing and support services to help older people stay living at home for longer Community Care

■ East Ballina Lions Club Community Market 7am-1pm The East Ballina Lions invite you to the Ballina Market at Canal Rd, Ballina. Stalls offer a wide variety of goods from food to fashion and gadgets to gifts. Visit the Cafe under the Trees for local coffee and freshly cooked food, the Ballina Shire Concert Band provide musical entertainment, and all profits from the markets are returned to the community. Free parking. Venue: Canal Rd, Ballina. Cost: Stall fees $15. Contact: Phone 0422 094 338. ■ Cape Byron Distillery Tasting and Tour 11am-12.30pm Visit the gin distillery and enjoy a welcome gin and tonic on arrival, a guided rainforest tour and tasting of their dry gin and slow gin. See how gin is distilled back at the distillery and cellar door. Tours and tastings are available every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Venue: 80 St Helena Rd, McLeods Shoot. Cost: $65 which includes a take home gift pack. Contact: Phone 1800 777 666 to book. ■ Sourdough Weekend 8-10am If delicious sourdough, cakes and pastries CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

Enquire today whiddon.com.au 1300 738 388

FEATURE

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

2019 NSW SENIORS FESTIVAL massages, drama, chair yoga and drumming and Verandah Talks by the local organisations. Venue: Byron Bay Community Centre, 69 Jonson St, Byron Bay. Cost: Free Contact: Pippy Wardell – Byron Bay Community Centre. Phone (02) 6685 6807. Bookings not required. ■ Mobile Library stop 2.15pm Clunes Public School, Walker St, Clunes. ■ Mobile Library stop 11.15am Dunoon Public School, 75 James St, Dunoon. ■ Mobile Library stop 2pm Modanville Public School, Dunoon Rd, Modanville.

FROM PAGE 17 straight from a 100-year-old historic wood-fired oven sounds perfect to you then don’t miss Sourdough Weekends at Harvest. Saturday and Sunday morning between 8-10am, pick up a coffee at Harvest Deli in the quaint village of Newrybar then pop down to the old bakery for traditional sourdough, pastries, baguettes, doughnuts and all kinds of treats. Venue: 18-22 Old Pacific Highway, Newrybar. Cost: Purchase items. Contact: Phone (02) 6687 2644.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 18

■ Mobile Library stop 9.45am Bogangar, Corner of Rosewood Ave and Hastings Rd, Bogangar. ■ Mobile Library stop 2.15pm Bilambil Heights, Simpson Dr, Bilambil Heights.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19

■ Creativity and the Brain 10am-3.30pm The event will be held at Lismore Regional Gallery events space. Guest speakers will be: Michelle Walker – visual thinker, facilitator and coach. Michelle will focus on the power of drawing and pictures to help us think and communicate better.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20

HAPPINESS IS KEY: There’s so much to love about life at any age and there’s so much to love about NSW Seniors Festival. Love technology, love creativity, love being active and lots more! Photo: Creatas Dr Miriam Torzillo – dance teacher and researcher, presenting “Thinking with Movement”. Lee Dunn – Lee will talk about a book she wrote about her father, Australian artist Nutter Buzzacot. Jenifer Collins will discuss art and dementia. Jenny Dowell will facilitate a panel discussion with three local artists about art and the brain as we

age. There will also be a tour and discussion about The Terania Creek Protests, which will be on exhibition at the time. Venue: Lismore Regional Gallery, 11 Rural St, Lismore. Cost: Free Contact: Joy Smith – U3A NR (Lismore). Phone 0474 644 704. Bookings recommended.

Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre will host a free pop-up live music interactive concert and afternoon tea of scones, jam and cream for seniors.

■ Byron Shire Senior’s Festival and Expo 10am-4pm This is a one-day festival with 25 information stalls from local organisations, entertainment, presentations and interactive activities for seniors. These represent the dynamic activities and services available for seniors in our area, from

death rites, legal issues, health and wellness to drama and dancing and sports, comedy and films and presentations in the theatre. Theatre presentations: Demystifying your choices for the end of life care, The role of elders in Aboriginal society, and Natural remedies for the ageing body. Plus, enjoy head and hands

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21

■ Mobile Library stop 9.15am Goolmangar Public School, 1301 Nimbin Rd, Goolmangar. ■ Mobile Library stop 10.45am Nimbin Neighbourhood and Information Centre, 71 Cullen St, Nimbin. CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

Creativity and the Brain will be held at the Lismore Regional Gallery with Michelle Walker – visual thinker, facilitator and coach. Photo: Cecilie_Arcurs

Whiddon Community Care

Community Care

■ Mobile Library stop 11am Tyalgum Public School, Coolman St, Tyalgum. ■ Mobile Library stop 2.30pm Burringbar, Upper Burringbar Rd, Burringbar.

Home Care Packages and private services Transparent and affordable prices, with no hidden costs A consistent team of people supporting you to live well at home Local offices and local people - we know your community because it’s our community too

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SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

FEATURE

2019 NSW SENIORS FESTIVAL FROM PAGE 18 (Closed for lunch 12.30-1.30pm).

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22

■ Mobile Library stop 9.45am Pottsville, Philip St, Pottsville (Closed for lunch noon-1pm).

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23

■ Sourdough Weekend 8-10am If delicious sourdough, cakes and pastries straight from a 100-year-old historic wood-fired oven sounds perfect to you then don’t miss Sourdough Weekends at Harvest. Saturday and Sunday morning between 8-10am, pick up a coffee at Harvest Deli in the quaint village of Newrybar then pop down to the old bakery for traditional sourdough, pastries, baguettes, doughnuts and all kinds of treats. Venue: 18-22 Old Pacific Highway, Newrybar. Cost: Purchase items. Contact: Phone (02) 6687 2644. ■ Evans Head Riverside Market 7.30am-1pm Spend a morning visiting the local

MORE TO EXPLORE: The NSW Seniors Festival covers events and activities including legal issues, health and wellness, drama, dancing, sports, cooking and films. community riverside market in the town of Evans Head. Artists, local produce, plants and clothes, there is so much to see and buy. Held in the grounds of Woodburn Evans Head RSL Club.

Parking available. Venue: 11-13 McDonald Pl, Evans Head. Cost: Free entry Contact: Phone 0435 008 092. ■ Mobile Library stop 9.30am

Bangalow Public School, Byron St, Bangalow.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24

■ Bangalow Market 9am-3pm

One of the largest markets in the region and a favourite with the locals. Get there early in the day and stay until lunch – food is amazing, musicians will keep you entertained and shady areas to sit and

relax. The markets on the fourth Sunday of every month are a gathering of locals, a get-together of artists, artisans, bakers, victuallers, therapists, farmers and friends. And from afar visitors are welcomed to join the day. Venue: Bangalow Showground. Contact: Phone 0433 605 668 or 0428 187 025. ■ Sourdough Weekend 8-10am If delicious sourdough, cakes and pastries straight from a 100-year-old historic wood-fired oven sounds perfect to you then don’t miss Sourdough Weekends at Harvest. Saturday and Sunday morning between 8-10am, pick up a coffee at Harvest Deli in the quaint village of Newrybar then pop down to the old bakery for traditional sourdough, pastries, baguettes, doughnuts and all kinds of treats. Venue: 18-22 Old Pacific Highway, Newrybar. Cost: Purchase items. Contact: Phone (02) 6687 2644. DISCLAIMER: Dates and times are printed as given to us. No responsibility is taken for inaccuracies.

Art of Ageing exhibition

ICON: Molong resident Benny, from Benny’s Junkyard, features in the Art of Ageing photographic exhibition during the 2019 NSW Seniors Festival. Photo: Kerri Ambler

THE NSW Government photographic exhibition Art of Ageing comes to Twin Towns from February 13-24 to coincide with the 2019 NSW Seniors Festival, formerly known as NSW Seniors Week. Featuring war veterans, proud L-platers, sports enthusiasts, artists and refugees, the exhibition comprises 30 images taken by five talented photographers from regional NSW. Each image will be projected onto the giant 17m x 5m screen on the exterior of the Twin Towns building. The exhibition celebrates the value, experience and contribution older people

bring to our communities and proves older people are anything but clichéd. It reminds us that older people are not all the same and everyone’s experience of ageing is unique. Member for Tweed Geoff Provest said the exhibition demonstrates the diversity and experiences of older people across the state. “Misconceptions about the lives of older people are prevalent in our community, but the experience of ageing is unique,” Mr Provest said. “Many older people are artists, athletes, business owners, farmers and volunteers, and this exhibition challenges

My daily reminder and a good gossip Care Calls

Our scheduled calls provide a friendly and helpful reminder for things that are easy to forget. Like taking medicine or locking the doors at night. And if something seems amiss, we can act quickly to help. It’s a good call for the overall health and wellbeing of your loved one.

people’s perceptions.” A short story about each of the individuals in the photos highlights their experiences and reflections on ageing. Go to facs.nsw.gov.au/ inclusion/ageing/ artexhibition. Catch the Art of Ageing exhibition on the Twin Towns big screen from February 13-24 at 6.10pm Queensland and 7.10pm NSW. The presentation will run for approximately 50 minutes. The Art of Ageing is an initiative under the NSW Ageing Strategy 2016-2020 and funded by the NSW Government Department of Family and Community Services.

Enquire today whiddon.com.au 1300 738 388

FEATURE

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

2019 NSW SENIORS FESTIVAL DAISI is connecting communities DAISI Services is a community-based not-forprofit charity delivering information, resources and assistance to people across the NSW Northern Rivers. It connects customers, particularly the aged and those with disability, to both formal and natural supports in their community, providing up-to-date information that is accessible and user-friendly. Through the provision of independent advice and individually tailored assistance, staff refer, link and connect community members to the supports they need. DAISI CEO Joanne McLean said with the current changes to aged care the organisation has experienced strong demand for help in navigating the system. Freecall 1800 800 340, email info@daisi.asn.au or drop into DAISI’s Ballina office at 166 River St.

Byron Shire Seniors Festival

THE Byron Community Centre Seniors Program, in collaboration with the NSW Seniors Festival, is hosting the Byron Shire Seniors Festival and Expo on Tuesday, February 19 from 10am-4pm at the Byron Community Centre, 69 Jonson St, Byron Bay. It will be a very interesting day dedicated to the wonderful elders of our community. The theme of the festival is ‘Love your Life’, and there will be many activities that will help you to continue enjoying your life every day. We do not believe that

becoming a senior means your life is over, instead we think that the rest of our lives are just beginning. Every day is a blessing to be enjoyed and each opportunity to spread that love is always worthwhile. The Seniors Festival and Expo is the second festival from the Byron Community Centre for 2019 that continues to expand on the theme of love and compassion in our community. The first festival was the First Sun NYD2019, a dawn ceremony at the Cape Byron Lighthouse.

BYRON BEAT: Join in the Drumming Circle at the Byron Shire Seniors Festival and Expo on Tuesday, February 19. The festival will have information sharing, entertainment, and lots of activities as well as hand, neck and shoulder massages being offered throughout the day. Also the Fearless Films Growing Bold Not Old will be screening in a special viewing room. Upstairs in the Cavanbah Room there will be a range of stalls representing a crosssection of services in the shire. Stalls include: Daisi; Apia; Centrelink Aged Pension Services; U3A; Zenith Virago, Alternative Death Rituals; Byron Community Centre

Seniors Programmes; Be Connected Program Seniors IT Support; Westpac bank; Feros Care; NSW Trustee and Guardians; Senior Rights Services; Cancer Council; Byron Bay Eye Care; Amitayus Home Hospice Support; Aquamarine Support Care; Lifebridge Support Care; Northern Rivers Bushwalkers and more. Theatre program: 10-10.05am Welcome to Country 10.05-10.25am Drumming Circle 10.30-11.15am Zenith Virago – Demystifying your choices at end of life and after death care

11.30am-noon Yoga – Seductively Simple Yoga for all ages/stages 12.30pm Bec Farah – Natural remedies for the ageing body 1.30pm Public Act – theatre performance/ workshop 2.30pm Wydo, indigenous elder; Traditional roles of Elders in Aboriginal society 3pm Comedian Robert Grayson 3.15pm Bay Singers and Ukulele Phone Pippy Wardell on (02) 6685 6807, 0421 926 785 or email seniors@byron centre. com.au.

ConneCting the Community to loCal and free serviCes, resourCes and supports Senior Resources • Carer Support & Assistance • Grand Carers Support Young Carers • Disability Resources • Community Transport Housing & Financial Support • Income Support and Subsidies Legal Support • Food pantries & soup kitchens

Your rights. Your voice. Legal | Advocacy | Education Free and confidential www.seniorsrightsservice.org.au

Seniors Rights Service ABN 98 052 960 862 | ACN 626 676 533

Come and visit us at the Byron shire senior’s expo on tue 19 february 2019: 10.00am - 4.00pm

1800 800 340 www.daisi.asn.au

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1800 424 079

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

FEATURE

2019 NSW SENIORS FESTIVAL

Festival classes for free SWITCH 24-hour gym and the Swimsations team at Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre are celebrating NSW Seniors Festival in February with free classes and morning tea for all seniors. The theme for the festival is ‘Love your Life’ and Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre can certainly help you do that. Try their range of classes to feel good, meet new people and boost your energy. The Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre is celebrating the NSW Seniors Festival with free classes every day from February 18-22, followed by a social morning tea. Monday, February 18, 9.30am: Gentle Moves Gentle exercises for any fitness level. Tuesday, February 19, 8am: Aqua A fun and gentle aqua aerobics class for all fitness levels. Wednesday, February 20, 9.30am: Aqua A fun and gentle aqua aerobics class for all fitness levels.

LOVE YOUR LIFE: The Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre can certainly help you celebrate the 2019 NSW Seniors Festival with some free classes. Photo: yacobchuk Thursday, February 21, 8am: Aqua A fun and gentle aqua aerobics class for all fitness levels.

Friday, February 22, 8am: Gentle Moves Gentle exercises for any fitness level.

SWITCH gym manager Roberta O’Brien said exercising and having fun in a social setting is a

great way to stay young at heart and feel healthy in body and spirit. She said gentle weekly

exercises can also reduce the risk of diseases such as heart attack and stroke, and ensure that older people continue to feel flexible and enjoy a good range of movement. “Research has shown that even small amounts of exercise can have enormous physical and mental benefits,” Roberta said. “Exercise provides a fantastic avenue to meet others and make social connections in a fun and friendly environment. “And the older we get, social connections and friendships are a really important part of staying happy and healthy in later life.” There is no need to book for the Seniors Festival free classes – simply come along and have some fun. Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre is located at 50 Oliver Ave, Goonellabah. For more information, phone (02) 6625 5370.

Seniors Festival 2019

FREE CLA ASSES FREE social morning tea to follow.

Monday, 9.30am Gentle Moves Tuesday, 8.00am Aqua Wednesday, 9.30am Aqua Thursday, 8.00am Aqua Friday, 8.00am Gentle Moves

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

FFebruary 18–22 No need to book!

FEATURE

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

2019 NSW SENIORS FESTIVAL

Individualised client care improving the quality of life for those we serve. We take a holistic approach to care, supported by an outcomes-driven, measurable, care planning process. Care planning includes all aspects of a client’s well-being, including the vital socialisation aspects that support good mental health. In a nutshell, Right at Home focuses on the individual, on their specific needs, to improve the quality of their life. Each of our offices is run independently with the support and systems of a truly successful global provider. The Right at Home Gold Coast Northern Rivers office was opened in March last year by Claudia Clissold. Claudia is an enrolled nurse and has a very vibrant and youthful

approach to in home care. As the managing director of this office, she brings a wealth of community experience with her. Claudia maintains that the primary focus is on the delivery of care to clients to improve the quality of their life. We don’t have high administration fees or any ongoing case management and invoice handling fees. This means we can offer much more care and support to our clients which in turn provides them with a greater sense of satisfaction. Our fresh approach to in-home care and assistance has been an extremely rewarding experience. For most older Australians, the preference is to stay in their own home as long as possible. The use of

RIGHT AT HOME: A fresh approach to in-home care and assistance. in-home care services can extend the period a person can remain independently in their own home. Our fresh approach to in-home care means that we personally introduce all our care givers to our clients. We never allow a carer

Feel the difference and experience the Right at Home approach to In Home Care & Assistance Right at Home Gold Coast Northern Rivers is an in-home care and assistance provider dedicated to supporting the aged community, the disabled and people recovering from surgery. We provide the support our clients and their families want, when they want it, and how they want it so that they can continue living independently in their homes. Our caregivers, including Registered Nurses, Enrolled Nurses and Personal Care Workers are employees of the company. Importantly, they are trained, screened and insured professionals who are oriented and tested before they begin providing services. Right at Home can aid with the referral to My Aged Care and registration for a Home Care Package. We understand this can be an overwhelming experience and we can support you through this process.

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

to present to a client without a formal introduction. Three-monthly supervisory visits with all our clients are included in our services at no additional cost. Most importantly, we listen to our clients and tailor care plans in

Photo: kzenon

accordance with their requirements. At Right at Home we have adopted a fresh and personal approach to the delivery of our care. Phone our office on (07) 5655 0519 to arrange a free in-home consultation.

• Approved Home Care Provider • Personalised Care Plans • Shopping / Social Visits / Exercise • Meal Preparation & Dietary Planning • Laundry / Housekeeping • Medication Administration • Transportation / Errands • Enrolled Nurses Registered Nurses • 24/7 Care • IV Therapy • Hospital in the Home • Bathing / Hygiene / Dressing

Right at Home Gold Coast Northern Rivers 6/17 Karp Court, Bundall QLD 4217 | P 07 5655 0519 E care.gcnr@rightathome.com.au | W www.rightathome.com.au

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RIGHT at Home provides private pay, in-home supportive care for older people, disabled adults, and people recovering from surgery, to help them continue living independently. Right at Home is an international business with more than 600 offices, looking after over 20,000 people every day, across the US, Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, Japan, Netherlands and China. Our pilot office in Australia was opened in January 2014 in Brisbane. Our carers, including registered nurses, enrolled nurses and personal care workers, are employees of the company and they are trained, screened and insured professionals who are oriented and tested before they begin providing services. Right at Home is an organisation dedicated to

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

AUSTRALIA

Just follow the Silo Art trail INSIDE

Win an Event Cinemas Merry Movies Gift card!

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

including Bumblebee, Aquaman, Disney’s ‘Mary Poppins

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

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

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

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

Class and food and beverage!

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

There are so many great blockbusters coming up to see

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

^Visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitionterms for full competition terms and conditions. Promoter is ARM Specialist Media Pty Ltd of 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore Qld 4558. Promotional period 17/12/18-1/2/19. Competition drawn 10am 4/2/19 at Cnr Mayne Rd and Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006. Winners announced in Seniors March Edition 2019. Total prize value $500.00 (including GST). Entry is open to all permanent residents of Queensland, residing in the Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast and Toowoomba Seniors distribution areas and NSW in the Northern NSW, Central Coast and Coffs & Clarence Seniors distribution areas. NSW Permit Number LTPM/18/03133

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GIVE MOVIES THIS CHRISTMAS

Say ‘Merry Movies’ this Christmas with an Event Cinemas

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

SILO SOLO: Matt Adnate, a former Melbourne graffiti artist turned painter, has finished painting his biggest commission ever, four 30m high silos in the Victorian Wimmera wheat town of Sheep Hills. Photos: David Geraghty

Lascelles silo art.

GIANT works of art now dot the 200km landscape across Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region. Towering high above the paddocks and towns along the Henty Highway, the Silo Art Trail celebrates the deep history of the region through murals painted on wheat silos by renowned Australian and international street artists. The trail takes in six of Victoria’s smallest towns – Rupanyup, Sheep Hills, Brim, Rosebery, Lascelles and Patchewollock. The trip between each town and artwork will take about 25 minutes, but that’s no reason not to make the visit to the

Known internationally for her art with exhibitions and streetart walls in Asia and Italy, Sobrane has just completed a massive project in Victoria’s north.

Travel Victoria’s highway gallery region last a day or more with some of the towns offering accommodation, food and side attractions. Book in advance if you want to stay over, is the advice of the experts; it’s not likely there will be a room available if you turn up unannounced. Begin your journey at Rupanyup. Look up at the monochrome mural created by Russian artist Julia Volchkova on the huge metal grain storage bins – a work that was inspired by the local Rupanyup Panthers Football and Netball Club. Stop off at Sheep Hills and see the huge mural by Adnate, an internationally renowned artist, famous

Cam Scales’ silo art at Devenish Graincorp silo.

for his work with Aboriginal communities across Australia. Completed in December 2016 and spread across all six silos, the work consists of four indigenous faces watching over the tiny community of Sheep Hills; with a starry background that has a symbolic significance to the local people. Brim hosts Guido van Helten’s famous Farmer Quartet. Located on the Henty Highway and stretching out across all four of the Brim silos, this massive mural was painted in 2015 as a tribute to the drought-stricken farming community. The tiny town of

Photo: Andy Rogers

Lascelles hosts artwork by celebrated Melbourne artist Tyrone (Rone) Wright. Rone turns his intimate portraiture to giant grain silos, depicting local wheat farmers Geoff and Merrilyn Horman looking out over the rural landscape. Finish the journey along Victoria’s Silo Art Trail at Patchewollock; population 250. Marvel at the work of Brisbane-based street artist Fintan Magee, sometimes referred to as Australia’s Banksy. For more information on the trail, go to siloarttrail.com/home.

Magnificent silo art at the Victorian township of Sheep Hills.

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

SUPERB FISHING: Top end great fishing with plenty of catch choices.

Photos: Peter Eve, Tourism NT

Catch the tips for top end Nige Webster A TRAVEL diary of mine would not be complete without a trip to the Northern Territory. I just love heading to Darwin because there is so much to see, do and catch! There are so many options in the Territory that I cannot do them all justice here but I will detail a few on the top of the list. There is fabulous fishing off Dundee Beach which is a couple of hours south-west of Darwin. Many guides work from here and you can stay right at the ramp where you’ll also find cabin-style accommodation and a pub with great counter meals. The fishing off Dundee is diverse. You can catch everything from sailfish to coral trout – you’ll find plenty of mackerel, tuna,

reef fishes and barramundi. The winter months are typically the best to fish here, but any time the weather fines up, you will catch fish at Dundee. Packing is hard as you can catch everything here. Lures and bait will work so take a mix of outfits from barra size (4 to 10kg) to medium weight (8 to 20kg) and the heavy outfits (20 to 40kg). Boats in the 5m-plus category are advisable in open waters and can be launched from the ramp at Dundee Beach. Darwin Harbour provides some great fishing for anglers not wanting to travel too far from the city. There are several ramps and also plenty of guided options. You can catch mud crabs and barramundi within a stone’s throw of the CBD; it is a diverse fishery. The wrecks and small patches of reef within the

harbour are good spots to catch reef fish such as black jewfish and golden snapper. Outfits prescribed for Dundee Beach will also get the job done in Darwin Harbour. Great lures for harbour and inshore fishing include 90 to 120mm bibbed hardbody lures that dive from 1 to 3 metres, 3 to 4 inch prawn imitation soft plastics, 3 to 5 inch paddletail soft plastics and 95mm vibe style plastic lures. The other great option when travelling to the Territory during the dry season is to visit the billabong fishery. These waterholes that have been left following wet season are often full of species such as barramundi and saratoga. They make for some breath-taking scenery while experiencing world class fishing. The easiest to reach and most well-known

Fishing for barramundi at the Top End. waterhole is Corroboree Billabong. It can be found an easy drive to the east of Darwin around the Mary River system. There is a small section of graded dirt and a solid boat ramp which makes it easy to visit and fish. The bird and croc life is

abundant and there are fish everywhere. The same tackle and lures as prescribed for Darwin Harbour will get the job done. The closest accommodation available is in the form of the Corroboree Park Tavern or

alternatively you can stay on one of the resident houseboats. Nige Webster works for AFN Fishing & Outdoors and presents and produces The Fishing Show on Channel 7Mate.

Design a holiday project CRUISERS wanting to find a deeper experience from their high seas adventure can join two Crystal voyages in 2019, both of which offer the chance to participate in valuable community projects. Selected Crystal Symphony, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Esprit itineraries will offer guests access to the Crystal’s You Care, We Care program. The guests contribute their time and care to a project, with no financial obligations requested or required. Each project is selected and vetted by Crystal. The selection criteria involve identifying projects which participants can

make an immediate impact on. The organisations determine their greatest needs and the Crystal team works closely with them on how they would like Crystal to be involved. In 2019 guests can take part in these following voluntourism excursions: ❚ Helping at the San Francisco Food Bank, Clatsop Community Action Food Bank in Astoria, Oregon and Mustard Seed Food Bank in Victoria, British Columbia ❚ Playing games, reading, dancing and participating in an array of other activities with the elderly and children at the

Granitos de Paz Foundation in Cartagena, Colombia ❚ Helping to feed the elderly at Mercy Kitchen in Belize ❚ Helping with cleaning and caring for the animals at the Samui Animal Shelter in Koh Samui, Thailand. ❚ Getting an up-close look at the wildlife at Territory Wildlife Park and joining the conservation team in maintaining the park’s botanical gardens in Darwin, Australia ❚ Participating in tree planting conservation efforts to shelter the yellow-eyed penguins of Dunedin, New Zealand ❚ Helping with

TRY VOLUNTOURISM: The Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony cruise liners. gardening and other household duties at Domus Christi Home for the Elderly in Dubrovnik, Croatia ❚ Helping with meal preparation or recreational activities at Smile of a Child in Cornith, Greece ❚ Helping prepare food and create ceramic artwork with the disabled at the Pio Monte della Misericordia in Sorrento, Italy

❚ Learning about the conservation of marine life and participating in the theoretical rescue of a dolphin at the Rehabilitation Center of Prat de Llobregat in Barcelona, Spain ❚ Helping with the work at the Gallinas & Focas home for the mentally challenged, tending gardens and groves in Palma de Mallorca, Spain ❚ Helping with groundskeeping at the

historic Mount Stewart House & Gardens in Belfast, UK ❚ Planting trees at the Heidmork Natural Reserve in Reykjavik, Iceland ❚ Visiting the Guernsey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in St. Peter Port, UK These voluntourism adventures should be reserved at the time of booking your cruise. For more details, go to www.crystalcruises.com.

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Adventure in be thrilled Ann Rickard visits a remarkable region that FIVE things to do in New Zealand’s Queenstown without a bungy jump in sight. I like adventure, but I like comfort too. In Queenstown I found plenty of both. Here are my five thrills of the gentler kind in Queenstown.

CHECK INTO A GOOD HOTEL

QUEENSTOWN offers myriad accommodation options from backpackers to high-end luxury resorts. We chose The Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, right on Lake Wakatipu with a backdrop of the Remarkables Mountains. Spacious villas with private balconies give a sense of privilege. Your own in-villa fireplace is a bonus. The signature restaurant, Wakatipu Grill, with its inside and outside fire-pits overlooking the lake is very welcoming, and the resort’s Stack’s Pub serves reassuring comfort food.

FOR A (SOFT) ADRENALINE THRILL

types zip down the mountain on a luge (a kind of billy cart contraption). Get on one if you can; it’s not hard.

CRUISE LAKE WAKATIPU

Try the Million Dollar Cruise because it cost just $NZ39 and cruised the lake for an hour a half, and had an open honesty bar. Indoor and outdoor seating, a captain and commentator who couldn’t have been more informative, helpful or friendly, knew every intimate part of the lake, pointed out wild birds and fish species in the transparent water and took us up-close to some of the multi-million-dollar water-front homes

WINE, WINE AND A BIT OF CHEESE

Queenstown sits in the Central Otago region which is known for its quality wines, especially pinot noir. Dozens of tour operators will take you to some of the top wineries in comfort and style and allow you to sip, sniff and swirl to your limit. We took ourselves to Amisfield, a stylish, chic and popular winery with luxury dining. It was difficult to get a reservation for lunch, but a cheese plate and a glass each of pinot noir in the garden was just as good as a long lunch. Be prepared to pay. New Zealand isn’t cheap. That cheese board and the two glass of wine... $NZ100.

LOOKING GOOD: Queenstown city and Lake Wakatipu is surrounded by dramatic mountains. Photo: New Zealand Tourism

WITHOUT actually jumping, leaping or being thrown around rapids in a high-speed jet-boat, take a Skyline Gondola (right in the heart of town) to the top of Bob’s Peak where the panoramic views of the lake, the town and the mountains make you feel you actually have done some heady adventure stuff. Enjoy a drink or snack at the Skyline Café, watch other more adventurous

The Rickards enjoying the fruits of Queenstown and the Otago region.

Aimsfield Winery offers fine wines and great food.

SHOPPING

There is high quality everywhere, especially New Zealand brands from fashion to outdoor and footwear. The town is compact and easy to stroll. It’s simple to find yourself in a cross-alleyway where more stylish shops and art galleries beckon. Surprises at every corner, and always with that majestic mountain range watching over you.

FINE DINING

Perhaps as well-known for its culinary prowess as it is for its adventure, Queenstown offers every cuisine from around the globe. We loved Flame Bar & Grill, upstairs in Beach Street with garden and lake views and giant flame-grilled steaks and succulent ribs. If you are of a patient nature – the hottest place in town is Fergburger in Shotover Street. The attraction eluded us, but not so the hundreds of others prepared to queue and wait an average of 45 minutes just to get in the door for a hamburger. With names like Morning Glory and The Dawn Horn and Holier Than Thou, the burgers do sound exotic, but from what we saw watching devotees devour the giant burgers on the footpath, they were just hamburgers. Another place to try is the Botswana Butchery. It has superb food and wine, all in a decor that wraps its arms around you.

Photo: Graeme Murray

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

Queenstown or get chilled excites the senses on many levels CHOOSE to be one, the other, or both. Queenstown offers a surprising number of holiday choices, all within a dramatic landscape of mountains, a pristine lake and fabulously crisp clean air.

SHOTOVER JET

GO ON, jet thrilled on a jet boat on the Shotover River. The jump on point is close to town. You’ll come back still feeling flush from the adventure. The boat takes you on a ride through dramatic and narrow canyons, with a few exhilarating full 360 spins thrown in. The Shotover Jet combines both of adventure and thrills in an exhilarating and unforgettable way.

FARM VISIT

JOIN the iconic steamship TSS Earnslaw for an entirely relaxing voyage across Lake Wakatipu to Walker Peak High Country Farm. The hand-fired steamship, which dates back to 1912, sets sail several times a day. You can do a round trip, or get off at the farm for morning tea, lunch or afternoon tea. While at the farm visitors meet some of the local animals, watch the sheep being shorn, help encourage the local sheep dogs to herd up their charges and enjoy fresh food in the Promenade Café or the restaurant. The more active can go horse trekking, adventure on electric farm bikes or to try independent cycling.

WALKING & HIKING

THE area offers a huge choice in walking tracks and trails that explore different parts of the region, including Ben Lomond, Queenstown Hill, Glenorchy, Arrowtown and Lake Hayes. Some trails are little more than a stroll, others are wide but challenging uphill hikes towards far-off peaks, and others still are narrow trails that cut into gullies and offer a different kind of excitement. If you don’t have your own gear there are hiking equipment hire outlets and shops for picking up new gear. Queenstown's track transport operators will drop you off and pick you up at your preferred location, letting you enjoy your walking or hiking adventure without worrying about the safety of your parked vehicle, or the possibility of being stranded at the end of the track. There are climbing tracks and lowland walking trails to enjoy. Details on where to go and how long each trail or walk should take are readily available.

WINTER WONDERLAND

QUEENSTOWN is in the heart of the Southern Alps and boasts mountains for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. There are four ski areas open during the long winter season. The closest is just 20 minutes drive from the town centre.

Remarkables Ski Field which is near Queenstown.

Ski passes range from single day, single ski area passes to season passes allowing unlimited access to multiple Queenstown ski areas. Snowboard and ski gear can be hired downtown, on-mountain or it can even be delivered to your accommodation. Most Queenstown ski rental shops are open until 9pm during the ski season. Queenstown also offers ice skating, snowmobiling and snowshoeing.

HISTORIC ARROWTOWN

THE Arrowtown Chinese Settlement was home to thousands of prospectors who came to the region in search of gold in the middle of the 19th Century. There are now about 70 historic buildings and features left from the gold rush era. In among these buildings are half-day’s worth of craft, art, good food and pleasant walks. Down by the river where the Chinese gold-miners were forced to live are their huts which have been restored and offering visitors the chance to step back into that ‘golden’ era and see up-close their modest living conditions, and learn stories of their occupants.

Historic Arrowtown.

OTHER IDEAS

There’s golf, tennis, wineries, fishing, health spas and much, more to do and see. For more Queenstown visitor ideas, go to queenstownnz.co.nz.

Thrilling ride through the Shotover River canyons.

The TSS Earnslaw steaming towards Walter Peak Farm.

Photo: New Zealand Tourism

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Strong, sexy and ageing

Wellbeing

It’s time to accept older bodies for own beauty Alison Houston

WONDER WOMAN: Joan McCarthy celebrated her 80th birthday at a huge party which she attended as Wonder Woman’s great-grandmother, reflecting her ongoing zest for life.

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

Books are available at marjobooks.com.au.

Veteran actor turns on jazz

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.

AGEING is a question of attitude, according to octogenarian Joan McCarthy. And Joan’s attitude is that she may be getting “older”, but that doesn’t mean she has to “be old”. Joan contacted Central Coast Seniors asking why older people, particularly over-70s, had virtually disappeared from life as far as large sections of the media were concerned. Joan, and longtime friend Maureen Smith, have been laying bare myths about older women since their 60s, surveying 200 women to pen their first book, Sixty, Strong and Sexy, followed by Glimpses into the Lives of Positively Ageing Women, when they were in their 70s. Joan believes we need to accept our ageing bodies as something beautiful, rather than seeing wrinkles as ugly and a sign of having passed our use by date. “Why does society tell us we have to get rid of our wrinkles, have plastic surgery or botox or we aren’t appealing; aren’t worth it?” she asked. “I don’t feel like the wrinkled face I see in the mirror, but it’s about learning to love that face – that those wrinkles are there because of all the

wonderful experiences I have had.” And having dressed as Wonder Woman’s great-grandmother for her 80th birthday, complete with customised armour, Joan has proven her point by working as a life artist model – that’s right, the ones who pose nude. “I’ve never had so many amazing compliments in my life,” Joan said. It’s not that Joan has miraculously escaped all the side-effects of ageing or self-doubts. On the contrary, she felt turning 80 was a real turning point, just as 25 and 50 had been, to work out “where I was meant to be going in this new era of my life”. After a retreat in Maui she has a new mantra: “if it’s not fun, don’t do it, and if you must do it, make it fun! “I want to be vibrant right up to the end and go out saying... what a ride!” Joan said. For her, that means eating well – she is vegetarian, and this year gave up dairy (but not ice cream, which she loves) – moving and being active through simply walking or doing yoga or other exercise, and always questioning and learning. For her full story, go to seniorsnews.com.au.

THE Hollywood veteran actor Jeff Goldblum is beloved around the world for his starring roles in such classics as The Fly, The Big Chill and Jurassic Park among many others. But now the 66-year-old has turned his hand to an old love – jazz piano – and released his first debut album. And wouldn’t you know it – it’s shot straight to number one on the charts. Goldblum has been dedicated to tickling the

Actor Jeff Goldblum has released his debut album. ivories for more than 50 years, telling Rolling Stone he plays “every day”. “It’s part of my life,”

he said. “I know what gratification comes from a routine and making something a habit and I play first thing in the morning.” And it was his weekly spot with the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra at the Rockwell club that inspired his new project – The Capitol Studios Sessions. Featuring guest vocalists Haley Reinhart, Imelda May and Sarah Silverman, and trumpeter Till Bronner.

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

WELLBEING

Top tips for solid eyesight Tracey Johnstone GOOD eye health starts with precaution before a sight problem or refractive error is revealed which can significantly impact on your quality of life. This means getting your eye health tested by your local optometrist every 12 months from the time you hit 60. From the age of 65 you are eligible for a full Medicare rebate for the cost of an annual test. Many eye conditions associated with ageing aren’t immediately obvious to the person. They can sneak up without causing early pain or symptoms and become obvious once damage to the eye has occurred. When up to 90 per cent of blindness in Australia is avoidable or treatable if detected early, it’s a strong argument for staying on top of your eye health. As we age we are prone to presbyopia, or old eye. This is where the clear lens inside the eye becomes less flexible and less able to change its shape. Optometry Australia’s chief clinical officer Luke Arundel says this can cause difficulties with focusing up close such as when you are reading small print. “It’s very common for

people 40 or 45 onwards,” Mr Arundel said. When we find ourselves squinting to help see just a little bit more clearly, we aren’t causing any damage to our eyes, but the muscles around the eyes will tire and tension headaches can follow. And when your arms aren’t long enough to hold a book or newspaper far enough away to read the print, it’s probably time to do something about what is a refractive error in your eyes. Where to start Each time you meet with your optometrist, you need to tell them what regular medications you are taking and what visual tasks you are doing. “When we prescribe glasses, particularly glasses for close work, the distance that you want to hold your reading material at is very important to us,” Mr Arundel said. “If you are playing bridge and want to look at cards that on a table that is 70cm away, you may need a different prescription from if you want to lie in bed and hold a book 30cm away.” You need to also detail your hobbies, crafts, what type of computer screen you use – a PC or iPad, for example – your sports and recreation activities, and whether you want to wear

EYE HEALTH: When your arms aren’t long enough to read the print, it’s probably time to get your eyes checked by an optometrist. Photo: gpointstudio glasses or contact lenses. With this knowledge the optometrist can tailor your visual solution. The next step is to discuss what type of glasses you want – bifocals which have the top half for distance and a small bottom segment for reading, multifocal or varied focal lens which has the distance at the top with an intermediate zone which might be for computers and a reading zone at the bottom, or separate glasses for reading and distance. “With multifocals, the way that the lenses are designed, there is often a little bit of distortion in the periphery,” Mr Arundel

‘‘

When your arms aren’t long enough to hold a book or newspaper far enough away to read the print, it’s probably time to do something... said. “Not everyone gets used to multifocals or bifocals; possibly as low as one in 30 might. “Typically, it’s something that would be covered by an adaption warranty. “So, if a patient doesn’t get used to them, often it will be changed at no

charge for changing to one pair for distance and one for reading.” Glare protection Other options to consider to help protect your eyes from UV is including transitions or wearing fit-overs as an alternative to buying a separate pair of prescription sunglasses.

Pharmacy glasses This option is often suitable to people who have perfect distance vision, but there are few people who find these magnifier glasses accurately suit their reading distance requirements. “The way they are made is that the optical centre of the lens is randomly selected,” Mr Arundel said. These glasses can be a good emergency option, but Mr Arundel says using these glasses shouldn’t stop you have having your eyes tested every year to ensure there are no significant vision problems arising.

Causes and solutions for dryness in your eyes DRY eye, which is common to older people, can be caused by any number of things so just popping some eye drops in your eyes won’t necessarily be the best treatment choice. Optometry Australia’s resident optometrist Sophie Koh says there are probably underlying issues causing this condition. “It might be some lid disease or inflammation that needs to be treated,” she said. “The tear glands within your lid might be blocked or inflamed.” Other causes could be dietary and systemic health problems such as Sjogren’s or auto-immune disease, thyroid, diabetes

or acne rosacea, for example. An optometrist will talk to a senior about these possible contributing factors plus look at the home and work environments, diet, general health, prolonged exposure to eye irritants and even eye trauma. Dry eye occurs when insufficient tears are produced. Those tears keep the eye lubricated. Every time you blink a thin film of tears are swept over the eye surface. The tears should remain intact between blinks. If your eye doesn’t produce enough tears or the tears don’t stay on the eyes long enough, this can result in

DRY EYES: It happens to many people. the eyeball surface becoming damaged. Crusting on eyelids Blepharitis, as it is known, is common in seniors. It is characterised by a chronic

Photo: fizkes

inflammation of the eyelids. The eyes will feel irritated and crusting of your eyelid and lashes can occur. “If seniors wake up in the morning and their

eyes are stuck together or itchy or have what we call sleep in the eye, that is crusting,” Ms Koh said. This happens when the eye is unable to flush away the grit that accumulates around the eye while we are sleeping. Get professional advice While using over-thecounter eye drops seems a simple solution, they won’t fix the underlying problem. The eyelids may need cleaning, or blocked glands cleared by an optometrist, or there may be other health and environmental issues causing dry eyes. It really is best to visit the optometrist in the first instance before trying any

self-medication strategies. Self-medication Some of the options are: ■ Eye drops, gels or ointments to lubricate the surface of the eye. ■ Wash and gently massage your eyelids while in a warm shower. ■ Increase the humidity in the air at home by placing bowls of water around the room to evaporate. ■ Check with your GP if your medications have side-affects that include dry eyes. ■ Practice blinking more often, especially when in front of a computer. www.goodvisionforlife. com.au.

WELLBEING

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

A new Code of Conduct THE revitalisation of the retirement sector has taken a major step forward after the launch of a new code of conduct described as “vital for the industry”. And retirement operators are being urged to sign up now! The Retirement Living Code of Conduct is the product of the combined efforts of two of the sector’s peak bodies: the Retirement Living Council (which is part of the Property Council of Australia) and Leading Age Services Australia. Both organisations represent retirement operators across Australia. The code has been formulated on consultation with retirement operators, residents and other interested stakeholders. It was created to operate within state and territory laws and is expected to take full effect from January 2020. LASA CEO Sean Rooney said the code would “set standards above and beyond statutory obligations”. “The code covers all aspects of a resident’s experience in a retirement community: from signing the contract to enter the community, their on-site experience of living in the retirement community, their decision to leave the community and then right through until the resident’s unit or apartment is re-sold,” Mr Rooney said. “The code is vital for the industry to set high standards for the marketing, selling and operating retirement communities, to promote and protect the interests of residents, and provide a clear framework for resolving disputes should they arise.” Go to retirementliving code.com.au.

GOOD SNOOZE: It's a common problem with one in three people struggling with sleeping problems.

Photo: gpointstudio

How to sleep deeply

Tracey Johnstone WE might need less sleep as we age, but we still need to make our sleep work well towards keeping us healthy and happy. Getting good sleep; it’s a surprisingly common problem with one in three people struggling with sleeping problems. So, when it comes time to put our head down each night there are some tips from medical doctor and professor of health science at RMIT Professor Marc Cohen, which we can follow to help us get the best out of sleep. ■ Aim for about seven

hours a night. ■ Set up a regular sleep pattern and avoid the stimuli that throw you out of that regular pattern. ■ Try to wake up naturally rather to the noise of an alarm. This way you are less likely to disturb your sleep cycle. What to avoid before sleep ■ Stay away from blue light which you find with mobile phones and computers. “Blue light is what normally happens at sunrise,” Prof Cohen says. “It’s a stronger light and it turns off our melatonin which is a hormone which gets released when we

are asleep in the dark.” ■ Use a soft light for night toilet visits. For anyone who turns on a light when they get up in the middle of the night to go to the toilet, their melatonin production can be affected. That means you will wake up a lot more if exposed to white light. Prof Cohen suggests plugging in a night light which utilises an orange or red light as either one won’t affect your melatonin. These days you can even buy orange-light torches. ■ Sleep in a dark room. Reduce the amount of light in your bedroom

throughout the night. This may mean turning down or away from where it will affect your sight during the night, the power light on the television, iphone charger, or even your clock radio. ■ Think before using prescribed sleep enhancers. They put you to sleep, but they also change your cycle so you don’t get as much regenerative sleep. Prof Cohen recommends you avoid these “hypnotic medications”, on a regular basis. “Herbal medicines are much safer and more appropriate to be used as a regular sleep

enhancer,” he adds. Try herbal relaxants The herb valerian along with hops has been used for a long time to help with sleep. However, the place and climate that a herb is grown in, and how it is processed, is important. Not all valerian, for example, works well in sleep support medications. The Ze91019 formula has been found to be the most effective. “It has been shown to help provide relief from getting to sleep or waking during the night, and it promotes melatonin production,” Prof Cohen says.

Try these five simple methods to lift your spirits THE most comprehensive report on loneliness in Australia shows that a quarter of adults are lonely for three or more days of the week. The Australian Psychological Society and Swinburne University study, also found that one in two (50.5 per cent) Australians is lonely for at least one day a week. Gold Coast University Hospital Foundation CEO Kim Sutton, who helps people in hospital overcome distress and medical hardship, says

the holidays are often the most difficult time of the year, particularly for those in the community too unwell to leave hospital. For those finding themselves alone these holidays, Ms Sutton shares five ways to lift your spirits: 1. Take the chance to complete those things you’ve always wanted to do. Make a list of all the things you wanted to do, but never had a chance – tick off your bucket list. At least plan your time in advance so you don’t

KINDNESS MATTERS: One of the best ways of lifting your spirits can be volunteering your time. wake up at a loss on Christmas morning with nowhere to go and nothing to do.

2. Random acts of kindness. Think about volunteering your time or donating to a worthwhile

cause. You will feel good and brighten other people’s holidays in turn. 3. Head to a busy social place and chat. I’ve travelled the world solo many times and often found myself facing a day, or a meal alone. To overcome this, try heading to a relaxed, busy place such as the beachfront or a cafe and chatting with others. 4. Step out of your comfort zone. Those that don’t have any plans for the holidays might

consider opening their house to a friend or neighbour who may also want company. 5. Know that time will heal. If you are alone and full of grief, it’s going to be a hard time. Mourning the loss of someone, or something, is made harder by the social importance placed on certain periods – particularly at this time of year. Let people know how you feel. For more information, go to gchfoundation.org.au.

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

Living

SMOOTH TRANSITION: Ron Jennings, past resident of Wommin Bay Village and Byron Bay Village with dog Rusty.

Full care to independent living in under three years ‘‘ BRAND INSIGHTS

WHEN a person moves into an aged care facility, it’s generally accepted they will live out their days there. Not Ron Jennings. After residing in two Feros Care villages, the 86-year-old has moved back to Ballina to live independently. “I would say that in Feros Care, I got so much help that I got better,” says Mr Jennings, who initially moved to Wommin Bay Village with his wife, Ruth and their dog, Rusty

in 2015. Ruth was suffering with dementia and after caring for her at home for 10 years, Mr Jennings couldn’t cope any longer. “It was a gradual thing, but it got to the point where it was too stressful,” he said. “My daughter is a nurse and she recommended Feros Care. The Wommin Bay Village assessed Ruth for high care and they realised that I was cracking up a bit under the stress, so I moved in as well.” It was this opportunity

With their support and some counselling, I was able to regain my health.

to continue living with his wife and remain involved in her care that was a breakthrough for Mr Jennings. “It was a great comfort to me as I felt as though I could still contribute to her care.” Mr Jennings said the support he received ensured his wife was

looked after, and he too could recover from the stress of having been her sole carer for so long. “With their support and some counselling, I was able to regain my health.” Sadly, in December 2017, Ruth passed away. “While grieving I felt as though I was still capable of doing things myself,” he

said. “I decided I wanted to get back into the community and become involved in things I’d been in before.” While eager to get back to living independently, Mr Jennings, knew it was a big adjustment. He decided to move into Feros Care’s Byron Bay Village. The move to the low care community village helped Mr Jennings make the transition from high care to community living. After six months in the Byron Bay Village, Mr

Jennings felt well enough to move back out on his own. “I found a suitable place at Ballina – just down the road from where Ruth and I used to live,” he said. “Moving back out was a bit daunting after two and a half years in care but the staff at the village were very helpful and assisted me with my arrangements.” To learn more about Feros Care Residential Villages, go to feroscare.com.au or phone 1300 763 583.

Being dementia friendly is friendly for all

CARING COMMUNITY: A determined group of community members have formed the Ballina Shire Dementia Friendly Community Alliance. Photo: Huntstock

THE Ballina Shire is set to become a dementiafriendly community, where people living with dementia are supported to be engaged in life in and around the community. To make this happen, a determined group of community members have formed the Ballina Shire Dementia Friendly Community Alliance. The Alliance includes people with dementia, their supporters and relevant stakeholders, including members from Ballina Shire Council,

state and federal government, Southern Cross University, the regional library, aged services and local business. Alliance co-chair and DAISI Services Community Engagement Officer Kelly Banister said research has shown that one of the most challenging aspects of living with dementia is the lack of community awareness about it and how incredibly isolating this can be. “Through the Alliance membership, there is

strong support to change this and create new opportunities for social participation and involvement in the community for people with dementia,” Kelly said. “To better understand the needs of people living in the Ballina Shire, we are establishing a Dementia Advisory group made up exclusively of people with dementia and their supporters to oversee the actions of the Alliance and develop their own activities. “We will also learn from the experiences of other

communities who have undertaken similar projects, such as Dementia Friendly Kiama, and are delighted to have the support of the Dementia Collaborative Research Centre in this endeavour.” To get involved in the Ballina Shire Dementia Friendly Community Alliance or its Advisory group, or to find out more, phone Kelly Banister at DAISI Services on 1800 800 340 or email info@daisi.asn.au.

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Money

Beware: Gifting impacts pension Check before final decision Andrew Heaven I WAS recently asked by a couple who assisted their son and his partner with their mortgage costs by giving them $120,000 towards the deposit, what impact that could have on their age pension entitlement. In applying for the age pension, Centrelink applies an assets and income test to determine your entitlement to a pension benefit. Broadly speaking, whichever test delivers the lower pension benefit is the test that will apply. There are limits as to how much an age pension applicant can gift in order to reduce the amount of assets they own to increase their pension entitlement. You are entitled to gift up to $10,000 a year or $30,000 over a five-year period. The same limits apply as a single person or as a couple. If you exceed these limits the amount in excess of the limit is considered a deprived asset and the

excess amount counts as an asset for five years from the time you made the gift. Even though you are applying for the age pension now, as you gifted your son the $120,000 three years ago, $110,000 which exceeds the limit will count as a deprived asset and therefore count for assets test purposes and be deemed under the income test. However, in 2020, once the five years has expired from the date of gifting, it will no longer be counted. Under the assets test, your assessable assets, which exclude the family home for example, are counted at current market value. Your age pension reduces by $3 per fortnight for each $1000 that the assessed value of your assets exceeds the threshold. The current cut-off point for receiving a part age pension for a couple who own their home is assessable assets less than $848,000 ($564,000 for a single).

PENSION ADVICE: Check the background on Aged Pension limitations before gifting your money to family members. Photo: Andrey Shevchuk For a non-home owner couple, the threshold will be $1,055,000 ($771,000 for a single). If the $110,000 that is

■ Spend money on a holiday. ■ Purchase a funeral bond up to $12,500 per person or pre-pay your

‘‘

There are limits as to how much an age pension applicant can gift. still being assessed (as a result of the $120,000 gift to your son) will exclude you from receiving the age pension, there are a range of options available to reduce your assessed assets. You could: ■ Consider renovating or upgrading the family home as the family home is assets test exempt.

funeral and cemetery plot. Alternatively, you could wait for the five years from the date of gifting to expire and then re-apply for the age pension then. If Centrelink tells you that you have lost your age pension due to exceeding the assets test, but do qualify for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC), what

would be your benefits? The CSHC is a concession card that is available to individuals who are Australian resident, of pension age or who do not qualify for the age pension due to their level of income or assets. The benefits of the CSHC include discounted prescriptions for medicines listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Once the PBS Safety net has been reached you will receive PBS prescriptions without charge for the remainder of the calendar year. You are entitled to access to bulk-billed doctor visits if these are provided by your doctor. Additionally, access to a larger refund for medical costs when you exceed the Medicare safety net. Unlike the age pension, the CSHC is not subject to

the asset test. However, it is subject to an income test threshold. The threshold limit is adjusted taxable income (plus deeming from accountbased pensions) of $87,884 a year as a couple or $54,929 a year as a single. To apply, contact the Department of Human Services and request an application for the CSHC. If you have previously been issued a Centrelink Customer Access Number, this number remains current. Applications can be made online at www.human services.gov.au This story first appeared on www.wealth partners.net.au. Any general advice in this story doesn’t take account of personal objectives, financial situation and needs.

Superannuation shines, but contributions are slowing Paul Clitheroe THE end of the year can be a cash squeeze. But it’s also a good opportunity to take stock, and budget permitting, grow your super. Figures from research group SuperRatings show Australians have tightened up their voluntary super contributions over the last 12 months. Maybe the sharemarket highs of 2017/18 have seen us take a breather from actively growing our

super, but the average voluntary contribution over the course of 2017/18 was just $1054. That’s 10 per cent less than the previous year. Super funds have seen a short term pull-back in recent weeks, when a major market sell-off impacted fund returns. In the first two weeks of October alone, the Aussie sharemarket fell 4.8 per cent. Just how much your super balance felt the squeeze depends on how your nest egg is invested; the greater the exposure to shares, the more your

super savings will feel the hit. The thing is, the vast majority of Australians have their super in a balanced style of fund, where your money is spread across a large range of asset classes. The result according to SuperRatings is that $100,000 of super

invested in a balanced option would only have dipped by 2.7 per cent following that 4.8 per cents sharemarket fall. This reflects the benefits of a diverse portfolio. The bigger picture is that our super has generally enjoyed a good run in recent years. Balanced funds have delivered a median return of 9.7 per cent over the year ended September 30, 2018, with 5-year gains of 8.3 per cent. Not a bad result at all. Good times should never be taken for granted

when investing, and while market dips are likely to impact your super balance, superannuation is, for many Australians, a very long term investment. There is usually ample time for your fund to recover any lost ground. Past returns are never a guide for the future, but $100,000 invested in the median balanced fund 10 years ago could be worth anywhere from $156,000 to $213,150 today depending on how your particular fund performed. It goes to show that

compounding returns really can work magic over time regardless of short term lows. It’s not a bad idea to use the summer break to get to know your super. If you can, add a bit extra to your super savings – you’ll be glad you did when retirement rolls around. Paul Clitheroe is Chairman of InvestSMART, Chairman of the Australian Government Financial Literacy Board and chief commentator for Money Magazine.

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

GARDENING

To advertise, call 1300 136 181 or visit finda.com.au Notices

Motoring

Public Notices

Caravans & Motor Homes

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“A Pocket Affair” Giveaway

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Cars

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BEWARE OF SCAMS

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

Clothing, Shoes & Accessories

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

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Tip

What a Waste!

6546920aa

Buy & Sell

Photos: RosePix

The future is rosy with some top tips THIS time of year will bring hot days, drying winds and high humidity, all of which affects the health and appearance of roses. It may be time for you to prune your roses if they have developed leggy or sparse growth and spindly stems. This will refresh and reinvigorate in them in a matter of weeks. Follow these pruning tips from Yates horticulturist Angie: ■ Trim off around 30 per cent of the overall growth and remove any dead or thin stems. ■ Use hedge shears or a good sharp pair of secateurs, and protect your hands, arms and face from the thorns by using sturdy gloves, long sleeves and glasses. ■ After pruning, collect up all the fallen leaves and stems, and apply some Yates Thrive Roses & Flowers Liquid Plant

This rose has good size blooms of a rich yellow which pale as they age are produced in small clusters. Food and water in well. ■ Spread a layer of mulch, like sugar cane, lucerne or pea straw around the root area to help keep the soil moist and protect the top soil from baking sun. ■ Re-apply Yates Thrive each week to encourage healthy new foliage growth and lots of flowers. ■ Watch out that the

new foliage and flower buds isn’t attracting insect pests like aphids. Spray regularly with Yates Rose Gun. If you are looking for more varieties of roses, Treloar Roses have some new, gloriously coloured and perfumed roses out this summer. To view the new offering go to www.treloarroses.com.au

Don’t waste your weekend trying to sell a car with a sky-high price tag. Attract the buyers with a price that fits the product.

This tip brought to you by www.finda.com.au Orangie is a truly spectacular variety with fully double blooms and an intense, stable colour. Extremely healthy and recommended for all climates. Grows to 1m tall.

REVIEWS

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Dalton delivers again THE enthralling story of the epic journey of the First Fleet, from one of Australia’s greatest writers.

– willingly or unwillingly. Drawing from historical sources of the time, Trent Dalton paints a vivid picture of the people who

‘‘

Trent Dalton paints a vivid picture of the people who embarked on this epic journey. Originally published as a Kennedy Award-winning multi-part serial in The Australian earlier this year, By Sea & Stars tells the story of the voyage that led to the founding of our nation, as told from the point of view of the people who took part in it

embarked on this epic journey. From terrified 12-year-old convict and former chimneysweep John Hudson and conscientious Lieutenant Ralph Clark to brave and determined CaptainGeneral Arthur Phillip, the

brightest star of the British Navy, these are the people who made the voyage, and these are their stories – of death, duty, glory, lust, violence, escape and mutiny, and a great southern land. Praise for Trent Dalton ‘I’ve always looked out for Trent’s work because he has a magic about him – what he sees, how he explains things. He can describe a kitchen table in a way that makes you want to throw your arms around it … (Dalton is) a genuine treasure of Australian letters’ – Annabel Crabb. ‘As a brilliant journalist, Trent Dalton has always intimately understood how fact is often stranger than fiction’ – Benjamin Law. ‘A major new voice on the Australian literary

scene has arrived’ – Nikki Gemmell. About the Author Trent Dalton is a staff writer for the Weekend Australian Magazine and a former assistant editor of The Courier Mail. He’s a two-time winner of a Walkley Award for Excellence in Journalism, a four-time winner of a Kennedy Award for Excellence in NSW Journalism and a four-time winner of the national News Awards Features Journalist of the Year. His debut novel is the critically acclaimed and bestselling Boy Swallows Universe, which was published in mid-2018. By Sea & Stars by Trent Dalton available now. Hardback. RRP: $24.99.

Details never released about the Thai cave

Nine Perfect Strangers and a strange resort

THE upcoming publication of The Cave will reveal previously unknown aspects of the Thai cave rescue, based on exclusive interviews with several of the rescued boys and their families, as well as with British diver John Volanthen. Author Liam Cochrane has gained unrivalled access to some of the key players in the dramatic rescue, with help from a team of Thai researchers. “Getting to hear about the boys’ experiences inside the cave and get their story in their own words has really made this book something special,” Cochrane said.

LIANE Moriarty has produced another superb tale in her novel Nine Perfect Strangers. I picked up a copy of Liane’s latest novel at the airport the other day. I took hold of it in trepidation that it would now be as good as her other seven international bestsellers, several of which I have read. Luckily, my choice proved a good one. Liane has again created an engaging tale. It’s setting is familiar, it’s characters easy to get attached to. The subject well, who hasn’t dreamt of going to a health retreat to get some rest and

“Many aspects of the rescue were unclear until I spent seven hours interviewing John Volanthen, one of the true heroes of the operation.” The ABC’s South-East Asia correspondent was on the scene during the search and rescue mission, but most of the material for the book has been drawn from fresh research with more than 25 key sources involved. The Cave will reveal aspects of the operation that have never been publicly disclosed. The Cave by Liam Cochrane. Published by Harper Collins.

maybe lose just a little bit of weight? Though, I’m not no sure this retreat would stay on your bucket list once you read what it has to offer. Tranquillum House is a place for health and wellness experiences, so the brochure says. It also promises total transformation. We meet at the retreat nine city residents. Each character has a deep story. — Tracey Johnstone Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty. Pan Macmillan, RRP$32.99 and ebook for $14.99

DEBUT NOVEL: A thriller that will excite you.

A white-knuckle ride of non-stop suspense

NEW INFORMATION: The Cave by Liam Cochrane is on bookshelves this December.

MICHAEL McGuire’s debut novel Flight Risk is a gripping thriller full of pure adrenalin, explosive action and terrifying revelations that will keep even the most jaded reader glued to the pages and utterly engrossed. The Australian author’s tale is original, the read a white-knuckle ride of non-stop suspense - a high-octane thriller full of pure adrenalin, explosive action and jaw-dropping revelations. The story introduces disgraced former pilot Ted Roberts. He works for a top-secret government organisation set up to investigate terror-related incidents. Sent to Jakarta

to find out as much as he can about the pilot of a vanished Garuda flight, Ted discovers a flight simulator in the pilot’s apartment. When the investigation turns sour, Ted escapes to New York as further disaster strikes. Another plane disappears from the sky. Then another. Three planes and hundreds of passengers and crew vanish, without a trace. Panic is widespread and the world is teetering on the brink. Still no one claims responsibility. Published by Allen and Unwin RRP$29.99.

NEW BOOK: Liane Moriarty doesn't disappoint in her latest novel.

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

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

Across 1 William Driver coined what name for the US ﬂag? (3,5) 7 What was measured in ells? (5) 8 Which 70s US band changed their name from Teen King and the Emergencies? (3,6) 9 What abbreviation in recipes means a teaspoonful? (3) 10 What are the fuel components in a nuclear power plant called? (4) 11 What vegetable is used in a Waldorf salad? (6) 13 What military word is from German for “coat of mail”? (6) 14 Which pleasure garden in Copenhagen has been enjoyed since 1843? (6) 17 What bird might lay its egg in the nest of another? (6) 18 Who is killed in regicide? (4) 20 Poetically, what is an area of grassy pasture? (3) 22 What foodstuff is couverture? (9) 23 What do you get if you ask for chateaubriand in a restaurant? (5) 24 What word came from the name of a Texas rancher who refused to brand his cattle? (8)

7 8 9 11

10 12 13

16 17

20 22

PUZZLES

Down 1 Spraint is the droppings of what animal? (5) 2 What is the capital of Saxony in Germany? (7) 3 What metal did the Romans use for water pipes? (4) 4 What nickname is applied to a Rolls Royce car? (6) 5 How many thieves were encountered by Ali Baba? (5) 6 In Indian cookery, what thin bread pancake is cooked on a griddle? (7) 7 Which novelist’s ﬁrst names are Clive Staples (1,1,5) 12 Some consider the feathers of what bird unlucky in a house? (7) 13 What (“_____ and be damned”) was the Duke of Wellington’s response to a blackmail threat? (7) 15 What is the Japanese art of folding paper into decorative shapes? (7) 16 What is the capital of Colombia? (6) 17 What is a brief appearance in a ﬁlm by a well-known actor? (5) 19 What language gave us the word panorama? (5) 21 What is a private box in a theatre? (4)

12/1

23 24

SUDOKU

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

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

7 8

5x5

ALPHAGRAMS

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

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

11 12

G D

O E

R E

RIDGE HEARTY ON A FISH DRAINAGE SAD SHRINE

E E

Note: more than one solution may be possible.

19 20

SOLUTIONS

alate alike alive alkie atilt avail aviate kale kava lake late latte lava lave leak tael tail taka take tala tale talk TALKATIVE talkie teak teal teat vail vale valet veal vial vital

WORD GO ROUND

R E E V E

E R R E D

QUICK CROSSWORD Across: 6. Raw deal 7. Lever 9. Cap 10. Hesitated 12. Premeditate 15. Subordinate 17. Impressed 19. Bar 21. Steep 22. Hatchet. Down: 1. Pagan 2. Ode 3. Fame 4. Devastate 5. Repents 8. Hidden 11. Armouries 13. Modest 14. Submits 16. Taper 18. Elan 20. Ice.

How many words of four letters or more can you make? Each letter must be used only once and all words must contain the centre letter. There is at least one nine-letter word. No words starting with a capital are allowed, no plurals ending in s unless the word is also a verb. TODAY: Good 18 Very Good 24 Excellent 30

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

BLACKOUT

ALPHAGRAMS: DIRGE, EARTHY, FASHION, GARDENIA, HARDINESS.

A I

K T

A G L O W

613

WORD GO ROUND

P A D R E

SUDOKU

5x5

S W I G S

T V

L E

Down 1. Non-believer (5) 2. Poem (3) 3. Celebrity (4) 4. Destroy (9) 5. Regrets (7) 8. Concealed (6) 11. Arsenals (9) 13. Unassuming (6) 14. Gives in (7) 16. Gradually reduce (5) 18. Style, enthusiasm (4) 20. Frost (3)

GK CROSSWORD Across: 1 Old Glory. 7 Cloth. 8 The Eagles. 9 Tsp. 10 Rods. 11 Celery. 13 Panzer. 14 Tivoli. 17 Cuckoo. 18 King. 20 Lea. 22 Chocolate. 23 Steak. 24 Maverick. Down: 1 Otter. 2 Dresden. 3 Lead. 4 Roller. 5 Forty. 6 Chapati. 7 C S Lewis. 12 Peacock. 13 Publish. 15 Origami. 16 Bogota. 17 Cameo. 19 Greek. 21 Loge.

Across 6. Unfair treatment (3,4) 7. Prise (5) 9. Restrict (3) 10. Thought twice (9) 12. Plan in advance (11) 15. Inferior (11) 17. Moved (9) 19. Pub (3) 21. Sheer (5) 22. Small axe (7)

Q X R T O E N Y R E C I T E S

E M E R V F O D O R O D A F C

P L A T E A U D C R U M B L E

U O L J R S G W X E C W A C U

B E I N G F A M E T H Y S T J

S M S V R O T A K U O L C U D

V H E R O Y M W I S H B O N E

W A K J W X T T D B A D A J B

I N G E N U I T Y W R A G E D

N P O M N N T H L C D Y O H A

S H O R T F A L L A I O T A E

U Q P I D B L Q U O N X S D E

L D K F I J I S C H E R O O T

I D G L K I C C O N S E C B Y

N K D E N S O B T Q S T I E S

BLACKOUT

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

DOUBLE CROSS

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

S I N S U L H N H S E G O O R E R I F R O W N T I O U F J T I T A L I A W T L I D Y L L C S H H A R D I N E B A O R C O G O T O N E A D O E D T

S S T I B E S O T C

D L E N S I N

NORTHERN NSW

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

E EN G D R ID A H CH O R N O ES

in Lennox Head

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