August, 2018
7 www.seniorsnews.com.au vfacebook.com/seniorsnews
FREE
4 1300 880 265
NEED A LAWYER? *10% SENIORS DISCOUNT OFF MOST LEGAL SERVICES
1800 621 071
WELLBEING A CENTRAL PLACE OF HEALTH & HAPPINESS PAGE 27
Meet Lt Col Harry Smith The Vietnam war hero who found his peace in blue water sailing
FIVE FAB FISHING ADVENTURES
INSIDE FEATURE STORY
Touring Travel & Cruise Specialists Call our friendly, experienced team to book your next cruise or touring holiday or to join one of Go See Touring’s special group departures.
CHIANG MAI FLOW WER R FESTIVAL AL ESCORTE TED TOU UR
$4,395
per person Twin Share ex BNE, SYD & MEL, Single Supplement $1,000
25 JAN - 5 FEB 2019
11 Nigh ghts accom - Bangkok, River Kwai, Chia iang Rai & Chiang Mai, most meals. s City & Temples Tour Bangkok, Bridg dge on the River Kwai, Hellfire Pass, s, Golden Triangle, Mae Fah Luang Gar ardens, Choui Fong Tea Plantation, Wh White Temple, Maesa Elephant Camp, R Reserved Seating Chiang Mai Flowerr FFestival
SINGAPORE SHOWCASE
EXQUISITE INDIA TEXTILE TOUR
ESCORTED BY KAY MCMAHON OF STYLEBOOMER
$5,150
per person Twin Share Ex BNE or SYD, Single suppliment $1,390
2 - 9 MARCH 2019
goseetouring.com
$7,650
per person Twin Share Ex BNE, SYD, MEL, Single suppliment $2,620
Single supplement $1,000
ESCORTED TOUR
$4,585
per person Twin Share ex BNE, MEL & SYD, Single supplement $1,050
6 - 13 APRIL 2019
6 nights Copthorne Hotel & Resort, 1 Night Milford Mariner Cruise, Some meals incl: Buffet Dinner at the Skyline Restaurant, Botswana Butchery. Visit: Gibbston Valley Winery, Glenorchy, Wanaka, Milford Sound Overnight Cruise on board Milford Mariner, Fiordland National Park, Te Anau, Homer Tunnel, Eglinton Valley and much.
19 Nights accom, daily breakfast, 4 lunches & 12 dinners, many amazing textile outlets, Delhi National Crafts Museum, Jaipur City, Palace Textile Museum, Taj Mahal, Rajasthan Heritage Palace Hotel stay, Cruise on famous Lake Pichola, Ahmedabad Calico Museum.
11 DAY ESCORTED TOUR TOKYO TO OSAKA
$3,999 QUEENSTOWN & SURROUNDS
9 FEB - 2 MAR 2019
GO SEE JAPAN IN FULL BLOOM
7 Nights 4 accom, cooked breakfast daily, 1 lunch + 5 HOSTED BY GRAEME HUGO, RODNEY VINCENT dinners, all touring and entrance fees, Singapore Zoo, Gardens & FORTUNATO ISGRO By the Bay, National Orchid From Gardens, High Tea at Raffles, Changi Tour, Sentosa per person Twin Share PLUS 2 x Fabulous Concerts ex BNE, MEL, SYD, ADL & PER, Singapore Showcase 2019
1300 551 997 TERMS & CONDITIONS *Price is per person Twin Share fully inclusive. Single Supplement applies. Credit card surcharges apply. Deposit of AUD$500$800 per person is required to secure tour. Tour requires a minimum number of passengers to depart. Prices may fluctuate if surcharges, fee, taxes or currency change. Prices current as at 30 July 2018. Go SeeTouring Pty Ltd T/A Go See Touring Member of Helloworld ABN: 72 122 522 276 ATAS Accreditation A11320
PAGE 18
PARIS IN SPRINGTIME ESCORTED BY ANNA ABBOTT
$ 8,445
per person Twin Share Ex BNE Single suppliment $2,485
2 - 17 MAY 2019
31 MAR - 10 APR 2019 8 x Breakfast; 4 x lunches, 2 x Dinner, Mt Fuji sight seeing, Kyoto sight seeing, Tokyo Sight seeing, Nara Sight Seeing, Osaka sight seeing, Hiroshima Sight Seeing, Train tickets on ordinary, reserved seating, Private tour with English speaking guide.
13 nights 4-star accom, daily breakfast, 2 lunches, 4 dinners, all touring and entrance fees, Gardens by the Bay in Singapore, Palace of Versailles, Eiffel Tower, Sacré Coeur, Montmartre, The Louvre, Musée des Arts Decoratifs, The Traboules in Lyon, Les Halles Boucuse in Lyon, Beaujolais Vineyards
WELCOME
AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS
Changes for the better Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor
27
Celebrate Wellbeing INDEX 3 6 8 11 13 21 25 27 29 31
Lt Col Harry Smith Penny Cook Margaret Fisher tennis champ Talk n Thoughts Wanderlust Community Group Guide Living Wellbeing Money Puzzles
HELLO readers, Thirty-five years after starting in the newspaper industry, our Seniors News Northern Rivers reporter Yvonne Gardiner has called it a day. Although there is a lot of travel on her bucket list, she will remain living in Northern NSW and enjoy the great lifestyle in this part of the world. We now welcome long-time Tweed journo Tania Phillips to Seniors News Northern Rivers edition. This month, in celebration of Mullumbimby Senior Citizens Autumn Club six decades of service, Byron Shire Council’s Acting Director, Corporate and Community Services James Brickley recognised the services of Keith Basing who, at 93 years old, retains the position of club president. Tania Phillips shares the story (page 10). We also update you on the flourishing tennis career of 88-year-old Margaret Fisher (Byron Citizen of the Year) and her quest to play in the singles championships for Australia at the World Super Seniors Tennis Championships in Croatia this year (page 8). On a national level, we
commemorate through the memories of Lt Col Harry Smith, the anniversary of the Long Tan battle. To honour the people involved means to acknowledge the terrible situations that have provoked and enabled warfare. Although, continued warfare has proved the message underpinning the American philosopher George Santayana’s words “those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it” untrue, I believe the intent – that understanding can lead to alternative actions – holds some truth. Lt Col Harry Smith’s decision to err from past decisions that left the heroic deeds of good soldiers unrecognised, has meant appropriation validation for these men. I trust this story honours all men who served their country at this time. Enjoy, Gail
CONTACT US General Manager Geoff Crockett – 07 5430 1006 geoff.crockett@news.com.au Editor Gail Forrer – 07 5435 3203 gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Executive Sue Germany – 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 “Brisbane Seniors Newspaper”. The Seniors Newspaper is published monthly and distributed free in southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales. The Seniors newspaper stable includes Toowoomba, Wide Bay, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Northern NSW, Coffs and Clarence and Central Coast publications. Published by News Corp Australia. Printed by News Corp Australia, Yandina. Opinions expressed by contributors to Seniors Newspapers are not necessarily those of the editor or the owner/publisher and publication of advertisements implies no endorsement by the owner/publisher.
THE KING OF TALKBACK RADIO JOHN LAWS ON 2HC AND 2GF With over sixty years of commercial broadcast experience, John Laws asks the hard questions – and cuts through the political spin. For unmissable news, information, entertainment and talkback, Australia relies on John Laws.
Don’t miss the host who calls it like he sees it. Listen every weekday from 9am – midday.
Coffs Coast 100.5 FM | 639 AM www.radio639am.info
Clarence Valley 1206 AM | 103.9 FM www.radio2gf.com.au
CR114733AA
2
SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018
COVER STORY
3
Harry Smith: new memorial stark reminder of Long Tan Tracey Johnstone AUGUST 18 is a date in Lieutenant Colonel Harry Smith’s life that he can’t turn his back on, but neither will he celebrate it. “It was my company of 105 soldiers that got brassed-up by over 2000 North Vietnamese and regular army, and we defeated them with massive artillery support and the gallantry of my own soldiers,” Harry, now 85, said. “Sadly, I lost 17 who were killed and 24 wounded that day. It’s always been the sad part of my life.” Harry remembers the 1966 battle was fought in monsoonal conditions which helped mask the location of the Australian soldiers.
“The enemy used to run telephone wires along the ground so that they could give orders as they didn’t have many radios,” he said. “The artillery shrapnel cut their telephone lines so they had to send orders by runners. Consequently, they weren’t as organised as they could have been. The rain, the artillery smoke and everything else limited their ability to locate us. “But, when they did locate us, we were in a well-defended position. I had already lost about 13 or 14 soldiers by the time the major assault came in and then we lost another four. We were able to repel them. “They took so many casualties and withdrew
and went home. Basically, we can say, they were defeated.” That story rolls off the former Company Commander’s lips with care and solemnity that defines why Harry sought peace for the last 35 years through spending every conceivable minute bluewater sailing. When he returned from Vietnam, Harry joined the Commandos in Sydney and headed overseas to parachute jump with British, Canadian and American air forces. He returned to Australia to take over the parachute school at the Williamstown air force base as the first army commanding officer. “We trained about 600 officers a year including girls,” Harry said. “I was
Lt Col Harry Smith.
Photo: Tracey Johnstone
responsible for bringing the girls in,” he added with pride in his voice. His last jump forced him to retire from the army. After a few years working in the corporate
world for a liferaft manufacturer, Harry headed to the ocean. He has chalked up a personal log of close to 150,000 miles. In later years his third wife Felicia joined Harry to cruise and race.
The A, B and C of Mercedes-Benz. Owning a new Mercedes-Benz can be as straight forward as A B C. A. Meet Lachlan, he is a Mercedes-Benz Certified Sales Consultant at Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast. B. Lachlan is professional, courteous and knows just about everything there is to know about Mercedes-Benz vehicles. C. You know that you will get the right advice and friendly service from Lachlan, before and after you have purchased your new Mercedes-Benz.
Make an appointment with Lachlan on 0402 214 323 for your personalised test drive and demonstration of our new A-Class, B-Class or C-Class motor vehicles today.
Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast 4 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Tel 1800 693 876 www.mbcoffscoast.com.au
LMD3461
Danger close Harry’s story of the Long Tan Battle is being retold in an Australian movie Danger Close. Production is almost CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
4
COVER STORY
AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS
FROM PAGE 3 completed and it is due for release around Anzac Day next year. The movie script is a bit of a sore subject for Harry. It was supposed to be as true as possible to the battle story, subject to some dramatisation. He said the original script wasn’t accepted by a group of military experts, including himself. And though some amendments were apparently made to that script, he said he had not seen them. However, he’s willing to keep an open mind on how the movie will turn out. “From what I have heard from my guys who have been to some of the movie sites, they reckon it will turn out really well,” Harry added. Date remembered August 18 ultimately became the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia endorsed national Vietnam Veterans Day. Every year since the war, Harry has attended a Long Tan Day commemorative function. This year he will be at the Australian War Memorial for a significant moment in his life and of those who fought at Long Tan. The permanent home of the Long Tan Cross will be unveiled. The cross was originally erected on the battlefield, but then removed by the North Vietnamese at the end of the war. “It was put in a museum near Bien Hoa,” Harry said. In 2016, after the 50th anniversary, the cross was given to the Australian War Memorial, but not before it had been through a chequered past. “It was knocked down by the enemy after the war and a farmer took it home and put it over the grave of his father,” Harry said. “He took the brass plate which has a little sign on it, ‘in memory of the soldiers lost at Long Tan’, and used that as a plate to heat up his fish and chips. “It was then taken off him by the local council and put in a shed. One of my former soldiers was over there and found it in the shed, and he did a deal whereby they were going to send it back to Australia in exchange for medical supplies. “But that didn’t come to pass because the North Vietnamese, who had taken over Saigon, now
Major Harry Smith of Hobart is congratulated by Australia's Ambassador to South Vietnam, Mr Lewis Border, after being presented with the Military Cross for outstanding gallantry during the Battle of Long Tan.
Major Harry Smith of D Company, the 6th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, in front of a blackboard briefing foreign press representatives on the battle of Long Tan.
HISTORY: Major (later Lt Col) Harry Smith, 6 Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment wearing a Tokarev pistol in a holster. He recovered the pistol from the body of a North Vietnamese Army soldier the day after the battleof Long Tan. It is now in the Memorial's collection. Photos: Australian War Memorial
Ho Chi Minh City, said no. “They took it and put it in a museum up at Dong Nai, north of Saigon, which is where it stayed until we got it on loan back here at the War Memorial in 2012, for 12 months. “Because of some noises made by the ambassadors, and by myself and others, the North Vietnamese decided it wasn’t much use to them sitting in a museum, so they gave it back to us.” Proudly displayed in his home office is a simple photo frame containing shrapnel relics found on the Long Tan battlefield and underneath a photo of the Long Tan Cross when it was still in North
eye-balling the enemy, and they were the ones most gallant and courageous, those recommendations were not approved in 1966. “There was nothing I could do for 30 years because there is a secrecy period in the defence forces.” In 1996 Harry was able to access the original awards recommendation documents and then he went back to “battle”. “And I really did have a battle because people said, ‘you can’t go back in time with awards, you finish going back to the Boer War and so on. “It’s just not possible. You just have to accept what was done’. I said no, I can’t accept that. These
Vietnam. Beside it is another presentation he received representing his company’s theme song, These Boots Are Made For Walking and it’s badge, designed by one its members, with a red triangle which is the Greek symbol for Delta and in the middle, a pair of boots. Harry displays little else of his Vietnam War years, using the remaining space in his study for photos of his many boats. Battle weary Harry finished his last land battle in 2016. “After the battle, a number of us were given awards,” Harry said. “The awards I recommended for my soldiers who were up
young soldiers, most of them 20-year-old servicemen, fought outstandingly in the battle and it is normal to decorate people for outstanding gallantry and they should get their award.” Finally, he was able to take his case to the Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal. He was knocked down once, but stood up again, and won. In 2016 the Governor General presented the awards to the soldiers of D Company in the presence of their greatest supporter. “That was the biggest battle I had since Vietnam,” Harry said. Harry now reserves all
his energy for battles on the water. When he reflects on his life, as his 11-year-old rescue dog Freddie sits faithfully by his side, Harry said: “There’s not too many people who have had 25 years in the army, fought in an iconic battle and survived, jumped out of aeroplanes at 25,000 feet, sailed and raced, and married a lovely woman”. “Long Tan is on my mind almost every day,” Harry added. “Certainly, on the 18th of August I remember the sadness associated with those we lost, who were killed in that battle in order that the rest of us might live.”
‘‘
Certainly, on the 18th of August I remember the sadness associated with those we lost, who were killed in that battle in order that the rest of us might live.”
SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018
NEWS
safeTwear®
Pendant
5
MEDICAL ALERT! FALL DETECTION SAVE LIVES
The world's smallest - Smartest fall detection & Medical pendant
Book your Obligation free Demonstration today
1300 699 159 Automatic fall detection
24 hours - 7 days
A detected fall automatically connects to 24/7 response & monitoring centre
2 way voice communication
Speak & hear directly trough the pendant
Medical alert button
Traditional button push for Help as well as fall detection
Australia wide coverage
No longer be restricted to "at home" use, safeTwear goes with you - Everywhere - GPS/Satellite Tracking Technology so smart, yet simple to use
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
Phone : 1300 699 159 Email : care@emsas.com.au Web : www.emsas.com.au.
24/7 response & monitoring We are more than just a call centre, we’re a support network available at all times… Stay connected Anywhere / Any place / Any time No lock in contracts Prepaid packages available, for a lifetime of monitoring, at one low cost…
YOU'LL NEVER BE ALONE
You, your family & friends can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with wearing your safeTwear pendant. Plus the added advantage & benefit of being connected within seconds to our professional response/monitoring centre, who will immediately get you the Help you need
Limited Seniors Only Offer! Over 65? Call 1300 699 159 You may qualify for a Free safeTwear pendant & KeySafe.
Valued at over $500 While stock lasts.
6
NEWS
AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS
Penny’s back on big screen Aussie favourite stars in The Merger comedy
Tracey Johnstone
THE MERGER: The multi-talented actress, MC and Australia Day ambassador Penny Cook.
ACTRESS Penny Cook steps back out on the big screen this month joining John Howard in a supporting role in the Australian comedy The Merger. The scene is an AFL ground in a town called Bodgy Creek (nee Wagga Wagga). The town’s population is dwindling and so are the number of people wanting to play AFL. There’s a reluctant coach, refugees who have moved into a town with tough locals, a bright idea to tap into all this talent to rejuvenate the hapless club and an unaccepting club president played by John joined by his perky wife played by Penny. It’s a great combination of Aussie characters, back stories and humour which will be unleashed on local movie theatres from the end of August. Penny, 61, has had a busy life since she shot to
fame as the fresh-faced veterinarian Vicky in the iconic 1980’s television series A Country Practice; funnily enough, alongside John Howard. She has raised a daughter, looked after her ageing mother prior to her death and now watches over her step-mother who has dementia. “There were things I had to say no to because I wanted to be around for her (daughter),” Penny said. “She is now in West Australia at acting school. And I was caring for my mother so that limited my commitment to stuff that I could do.” Fitting her career into that busy family life was a challenge, but Penny has kept her hand in acting with plays and musical theatre productions, working with the corporate sector and some commercial station and ABC television shows. She has also worked
alongside some fascinating characters in her MC roles including former US president Bill Clinton and Prince Charles. On top of all her out-front work, in the background Penny is also an Australia Day ambassador. She is also on the board of the young people’s theatre company, Monkey Baa. “We are presently touring Josephine Wants to Dance all over Australia,” an enthusiastic Penny said. She says The Merger is a movie made up of a combination of many things. “It’s very silly, but it deals with bigotry and racism and with good wins in the end, with a lot of laughs and tears along the way,” Penny said. The Merger’s national premiere is in Wagga Wagga on August 28 before showing in cinemas across Australia.
ADVERTISEMENT
Astronaut Buzz Aldrin sues his children for ‘elder abuse’ and fraud Legendary astronaut Buzz Aldrin is suing two of his children and a former business manager, accusing them of misusing his credit cards, transferring money from an account and slandering him by saying he has dementia as well as sabotaging his romantic life. Senior Associate Melissa Tucker discusses the increasingly prevalent issue of elder abuse. Buzz Aldrin was a member of the historic Apollo 11 crew which landed the first humans on the moon. Aldrin joined Neil Armstrong to be the second person to walk on the lunar surface in July 1969. Although Neil Armstong is perhaps the most famous of the Apollo 11 team with his immortal words ‘one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind’, he passed away in 2012 at age 82, leaving Buzz Aldrin to carry the flag. Aldrin’s lawsuit filed last month in a Florida state court came a week after his children, Andrew and Janice, filed a petition claiming their father was suffering from memory loss, delusions, paranoia and confusion. They asked for the
court to name them his legal guardians, saying Aldrin was associating with ‘new friends’ who were trying to alienate Aldrin from his family and that he had been spending his assets at “an alarming rate”. The astronaut says his son has swiped nearly half a million dollars from his personal bank account in the past two years. He also claimed his son and daughter committed elder abuse by hiding “pertinent financial and business information” from him. One would think with such a high profile person such as Buzz Aldrin, all would be well and taken care of by his adult children. Unfortunately, this is typical of the issues that families find themselves in, and increasingly, elderly parents and grandparents are being exploited by their children and grandchildren. The issues faced with the Aldrin family are very common in Australia as well. Money can certainly bring out the worst in everyone, so you must be proactive in these matters. It is often a delicate balancing
act to respect the elderly person but also to do the right thing to protect their assets. Sometimes the condition of dementia itself makes the elderly person difficult to deal with and they have little insight into their condition. Conversely, some attorney’s abuse their position and treat their parents assets as their own, thinking the estate will pass to them on the death of their parent anyway! According to the Australian Institute of Criminology, as many as 50,000 people over 65 years have experienced some form of abuse or neglect in NSW alone. It is likely that the figures are very similar in Queensland and other States of Australia. It is a serious social issue which cannot be ignored by families and those professionals involved in the aged health care industry. If you are a victim of elder abuse, do not hesitate to contact the relevant Helpline in your State or Territory. If the abuse is imminent and physical, please ring your local Police or dial 000. You should also confide in your treating General
Practitioner or visiting Health Professionals and they will make sure that the appropriate persons are notified and that help can be provided to you. An alternative is to contact lawyers experienced in this area and have them review your Enduring Power of Attorney and Enduring Guardian. These are very important documents that everyone should regularly review and make sure that their affairs are going to be handled independently and with your best interests in mind. Sometimes this can be difficult with capacity issues brought about by the onset of dementia, but just because you have been
COOLANGATTA | KINGSCLIFF | ROBINA TOWN CENTRE
1800 621 071 attwoodmarshall.com.au
diagnosed with this condition, it does not mean you cannot provide instructions for these documents to be prepared. Please contact our office for an obligation free initial
appointment if you require advice. This simple attention to your legal documents could save you and your family a lot of stress, anxiety and financial loss.
If you are someone who believes their Power of Attorney has been abused, or if you are an attorney requiring some assistance with the execution of your duties, or you would like assistance in preparation of a Power of Attorney please do not hesitate to contact our Wills & Estates Department Manager, Donna Tolley on free call 1800 621 071 or direct line 07 5506 8241 or email dtolley@attwoodmarshall.com.au to arrange an appointment. We have a dedicated Wills and Estates team that practices exclusively in this complicated area.
SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018
NEWS
Have you been exposed to asbestos from James Hardie Building products? Sean Ryan
Director
mobile. 0457 222 709 toll free. 1800 316 716 email. sean@vbrlaw.com.au
Do you suffer from breathing problems?
Leading Lawyer Asbestos and Dust Disease Compensation 2016, 2017
Call us today as you may have a valuable claim for lump sum compensation
We handle all types of claims for:
Who are we? Sean Ryan has dedicated his entire legal career to acting on behalf of persons who have contracted asbestos disease.
•
Pleural plaques
•
Asbestosis
•
Mesothelioma
•
Lung cancer
•
Oesophagus cancer
Strict time limits apply to making some claims so call 0457 222 709 today for an obligation free discussion on whether you have a claim against James Hardie.
He has successfully handled hundreds of asbestos disease claims and has won many victories including successfully running the first ever jury trial for lung cancer in Australia. Sean Ryan has been voted as a Leading Lawyer in Australia in the prestigious Doyle’s Guide to the Australian Legal Profession (2017) in the area of Asbestos and Dust Diseases Compensation.
Serving all claims in Northern NSW toll free. 1800 316 716
email. claims@vbrlaw.com.au
www.vbrlaw.com.au
facebook. @vbrLawyers
7
8
NEWS
AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS
More fit than at 80 years old Tania Phillips MARGARET Fisher has her eyes on the big prize – finally winning gold in the singles championships for Australia at the World Super Seniors Tennis Championships in Croatia in starting late September. As there are no public sponsorship funds available for elite elderly athletes, the 88-year-old pensioner, Byron Shire’s 2018 citizen of the year, is currently crowdfunding to make the journey. She’d like to defend both her over 85s mix doubles and women’s doubles titles won last year in Florida. But it’s the big one she really wants now – the gold that has eluded the dual gold medallist for the past eight years – the world singles title. “I’d love to have the triple,” she laughed. “But it would be just nice to win the singles. “I’m going to try my very, very, very best!”
And you can be sure she will give it a good go, after all Margaret doesn’t do anything by halves, nor is she one to give up no matter what gets in her way. This was spelled out clearly three years ago when she was knocked off the court by cancer. It was her level of fitness that provided her with medical options not usually available to elderly people and as a result she made a full recovery. Not only that, but the next year she was back playing world championship tennis and returned home from the titles in Croatia with the 2016 singles silver medal. At 88, she is not only still playing tennis she is fitter now than she was at 80, 70 or even 60. At 80, she couldn’t run to the net. At 88, she can run all over the court. She plays five days a week against much younger opponents at Byron and can be found most weekends doing half
an hour’s serving practice each day with her trusty dog “coach” Leo jumping and catching her serves. The two are local celebrities around the Bay. Margaret has always loved tennis “learning on Mr Kendall’s 17 beautiful grass courts” as a young girl growing up in Albury on the NSW/Victorian border. The same courts that Margaret Court learned to play on. In 1953, the then 23-year-old teacher went to London to play at Wimbledon. “My father insisted I have a job to go to over there before I left,” she said. So Margaret taught, played tennis and saw London – it gave her a wanderlust she’s never really lost (this forthcoming trip will be her third to Croatia). However life, busy careers first in teaching and then at Parliament House in Canberra and raising four kids meant
TRAINING PARTNERS: Margaret Fisher and “coach” Leo. that for many years tennis took a back seat – with Margaret playing social games when she could. Until eight years ago – on the eve of her 80th birthday. “My younger brother Ian
was going to Turkey (for the World Titles), there were places in the team,” she said. “I think I got a bronze in the mixed doubles that year. “Playing tennis again
Photo: Contributed
woke me up again, reminded me that life is to live – you forget that sometimes.” For more, go to pozible.com/project/ 88-gold.
ADVERTISEMENT
Government announces solar incentive
*Other criteria exist – ask one of our friendly consultants *not including account fees. ^Estimated savings Based on 50% internal usage at 25c kwhr and 50% Fed back to the grid at 10c kwhr +Gst, shading, orientation and panel cleanliness will affect system performance.
Shake down your power bill Make the switch to solar energy and save 5.5 kW From
$4500
*
Normally
$5121
+
20 x 275 watt Luxen panels + 5kW X1 Boost Dual MPPT Solax inverter For a free on site solar assessment call:
1300 18 20 50
or visit: www.saegroup.com.au 6657868dv
THE Queensland Government has announced a brand-new incentive to help homeowners take back control of their electricity bills and combat the rising cost of energy. If you’re a homeowner, then now really is the best time to make the switch to solar energy with the government providing interest free loans of $4,500 to be paid back over 7 years. SAE Group have brought to market a compelling offer specially designed for QLD homeowners looking to take advantage of this government initiative, making it even easier for you to make the switch. For only $4,500 you could enjoy the benefits of a 5.5kW solar bundle, comprising of 20 x 275-watt Luxen panels and a 5kW X1 Boost Solax inverter. This is a highly efficient system designed to drastically reduce your household electricity bills for 25+ years. How much could you save? Let’s start with the amount you would have to repay each month. With a loan of $4,500 being paid back over a 7-year period, that’s only an estimated monthly repayment of $54, or $643 annually*. Compare this with the average savings of $130^ a month, or $1560 a year, that the 5.5kW system installed by SAE Group should create for your home. That’s a saving of $76 each and every month from the get go, or $912 a year. What about over the 7-year period? You could save $6,384 PLUS the value a solar system adds to your property which you will own outright after the finance period. Are you eligible? An interest free loan combined with this incredible offer from SAE Group make it obvious why homeowners are already acting fast to secure their loan before the fund is exhausted. However, to be eligible you must be a QLD homeowner, receive Family Tax Benefit Part B, and have had a power bill of more than $1,000 over the past 6 months ($500 or more per bill)*. If you are eligible, then you’ll have to purchase the system from a Clean Energy Council ‘Approved Solar Retailer’ such as SAE Group to ensure installations are only through trusted retailers. The team at SAE Group are Master Electricians first and foremost so you can rest easy knowing you’re dealing with highly experienced, qualified staff. From consultation, to quality installation, and after sales service, they are with you the whole way, and offer a 12-year workmanship warranty with every installation. If you’re interested in securing this incredible offer, then call SAE Group 1300 18 20 50 or jump on their website www.saegroup.com.au.
*This offer is not available with any other offer. Price includes racking and installation. Net meter changeover not included. Smart meter not included. Finance options are available, subject to lending criteria eligibility. Terms and conditions, fees and charges may apply. Travel charges apply 100km outside from SAE office locations. Electrical Licenses: QLD: 72250, NSW 227526C
SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018
NEWS
Aged Care
We had a lovely day getting to know one another. Respite and pop-in care offered at Bupa Pottsville. If you are a carer in need of a short break, perhaps to shop or to meet friends, our care home provides a safe and secure environment for your loved one to visit anytime of the day and join in with our activities and meal time.
Enquire today 02 6600 2287 bupa.com.au/aged-care
9
10
FEATURE
AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS
Congrats for long club life First meeting in 1958 Tanya Phillips
WHEN Lismore’s Keith Basing retired from the railway back in the eighties he knew he wasn’t going to be one to just put his feet up – just the opposite. In fact even now at 93, Keith still has his finger in a few pies, including continuing his 24-year run as president of the Mullumbimby Senior Citizens Autumn Club which is currently celebrating its 60th anniversary. “You’ve got to keep occupied otherwise you fold up,” Keith said. The same could be said for the Autumn Club too – at its height it had more than 100 members and went on regular bus trips. “We only had 10 at Hoy
last time,” he said. “But if we could get more that would be great.” Lismore born and bred, Keith had been involved with the railway since starting as a porter as a young man – his last job was relieving on the Lismore to Murwillumbah line from 1980-87. But when he moved from Lismore to Billinudgel, he needed things to keep him occupied. This included being involved with the Billinudgel P&C and Rural Fire Service, Driver Reviver and indoor bowls. In 1994, he joined the Autumn Club and in 1995 he took over as president. He’s slowing down a little now, using a walker – but he is still an active and involved member of both the Indoor bowls and
COMMUNITY FELLOWSHIPS: Celebrating the 60th anniversary of Mullumbimby Senior Citizens Autumn Club are (from left) Susie Handran-Smith (eight years), Keith Basing (24 years), Betty Swanton (26 years) and Bruce Buckthorpe (three years). Photo: Contributed
his beloved Autumn Club. Keith said, like him, the club is undergoing some changes too – moving from its long-time home on Gordon Street across the street to the CWA hall to “make way for new Rural Fire Service facilities”. It is the end of an era for the club which, from 1958 to 1970, used various venues around Mullumbimby to meet before being granted permission to build “the
Cook Pioneer Centre” in 1969. The first meeting was held there in 1971. It’s the end of an era, but hopefully not the end of the line for the popular club. Byron Shire Council’s Acting Director, Corporate and Community Services James Brickley said the work of the club over 60 years was certainly something worth noting. “When the Autumn Club first formed in 1958, Qantas had just
introduced its around the world air service from Australia to London and Byron Bay was a whaling station,” Mr Brickley said. “We can never underestimate the importance of organisations such as the Senior Citizens Autumn Club because the social interaction that comes from being a member of this type of club is so important. “On behalf of Byron Shire Council I
congratulate the Senior Citizens Autumn Club for 60 years of great work in Mullumbimby and wish members all the very best for many more years of service and fellowship.” Mullumbimby Senior Citizens Autumn Club meet at CWA rooms, Gordon Street. To join, phone Keith (02) 6684 2916 or the club’s secretary Susie Handran 0422 685 258.
Tyalgum attracts New York talent
Delicious, low cost meals
right to your door
6780105aa
The team at Meals on Wheels Lismore wish everyone a happy 2018 Seniors Festival. 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
CROWNED “New York’s queen of avant-garde piano” by the New Yorker, Canberra-born tour-de-force Lisa Moore will be one of the main headliners at this year’s Tyalgum Festival, from September 7-9. Moore, 58, has released nine solo albums on the way to carving out an unconventional career which has seen her perform with a large and diverse range of musicians and artists throughout the globe.
She has performed in some of the world’s greatest concert halls – La Scala, the Musikverein, the Sydney Opera House, Carnegie Hall and the Royal Albert Hall and worked with everyone from the London Sinfonietta, New York City Ballet and Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Centre to Bargemusic, Bang on a Can All-Stars, TwoSense and the Steve Reich Ensemble. And now Tyalgum – much to the delight to
the event’s co-artistic directors Anna McMichael and Vanessa Tomlinson. The duo said Moore would be one of artists featured in the seven concerts of the Main Series to be held in the town’s historic town hall. It was the hall’s amazing acoustics that inspired attracted top-line acts from around the world. Info/bookings: tyalgumfestival.com.au (07) 3847 1717.
S ASKOU T AB UING A M BECLOUNTEER VO ODAY! T
27 Oliver Ave Goonellabah
P.6624 8215
E. lismore@mealsonwheels.net.au
6832177aa
Meals on Wheels Lismore
SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018
11
Lateral thinking: How to best use life skills Gail Forrer Group Editor Issues underpinning work after 60 have emerged in a number of categories including availability, suitability and, in particular, age discrimination. The article below reflects back to us these issues and, for one person, a solution. In particular, companies extending formal apprenticeship for older workers are noted, and also that few such initiatives have been taken up in Australia. Gail Forrer PETER Brady was 68 when he decided to start the transition to retirement. His plan was to switch from full-time work to casual contracts so he’d have more time to spend
with his family and to study. However, the former CEO of Autism ACT soon hit a snag: age discrimination. “I found if I submitted my full CV, I wouldn’t get an interview,” he said. “If I truncated my experience and qualifications I’d get one, but then I’d show up at the interview and be competing against all these Gen Ys. “I’ve got no doubt there was discrimination going on.” The Australian Human Rights Commission’s Willing to Work report of 2016 found age-related bias is widespread – and particularly rife in employment. “Remarkably, the report found a high proportion of hiring managers who were taking age into account were aged over 40 themselves,” a manager at aged care provider IRT Foundation, Toby Dawson, said. While age discrim-
ination has a slew of negative impacts, including those on mental health, families and financial independence, it was also regrettable from a broader economic perspective. A 2015 survey by the Australian Human Rights Commission found an increase of just five per cent in the paid employment of Australians aged over 55 would have a $48 billion impact on the economy each year. With the number of Australians aged 65 and over projected to double by 2055, there will be an increased demand for aged-care services and additional strain on the welfare system if greater labour force participation was not achieved. While the Willing to Work report urged the government to create a national action plan to address employment discrimination and to launch public education campaigns to dispel
negative stereotypes about older workers, some have started taking matters into their own hands. Mr Brady said he was delighted to be offered a reverse internship by IRT’s Toby Dawson, who at the time was 31. The idea came from the movie The Intern, starring Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway, in which a 70-year-old widower interns at a fashion company run by a CEO half his age. “It just so happened The Intern had come out and we’d both seen it. We talked about it at the interview and decided that’s what we’d do,” Mr Brady said. “My role was to share some of the tricks of the trade and where I had skinned my knees, so to speak. At the same time, Toby was managing transitioning me to a more junior role – he was coaching me in how to do it again.” Mr Brady didn’t want to
stop working completely and working 40 hours a month would allow him to put the money he’d made from selling an investment property into his super fund. However, he understood if he wanted to work fewer hours, he would need to take on a more junior role. “When you go for those senior roles, they’ll start off saying 20 hours a week is fine but within a matter of weeks it becomes, ‘Can you give us another day?’ Or the board is calling you up at all hours. It’s difficult to be a part time CEO or manager, because crises inevitably come up.” The role he was offered as a project coordinator at IRT allowed Mr Brady to brush up his social media skills and to learn how to use newer Microsoft Office applications; tasks he previously delegated. He said the first year of the 18-month internship was challenging, partly because it required a change of mindset.
Talk 'n' thoughts
“When you’re no longer the manager and not directing people any more, it’s emotionally a bit draining,” he said. But he said the experience was invaluable because he had since moved to work for Wollongong City Council where he was employed on a casual basis. It was also a win for Mr Dawson, who said working with Mr Brady fast-tracked his own learning and development. Companies such as Barclays Bank in the UK and Goldman Sachs and PricewaterhouseCoopers in the US have launched formal apprenticeships targeting older workers, however there were few such initiatives in Australia. This story was originally published by bluenotes, ANZ’s newsroom for insights, opinion, research and news about the economy, financial services, investment and society, from within ANZ and outside.
Advertisement
Power up for Summer with the Best New Tek in Solar Get More Energy with
Free 25 year Inverter Warranty Upgrade Extended!
Until the end of August 2018, 888 Solar Tek will provide a 25 year warranty upgrade to each New SolarEdge system ordered for FREE! You get $675 extra value.
Power Prices Went Up 26% in July - Again! The Solar Feed In Tariff has been cut by an average of 3c per kWh and power has gone up 3c per kWh. If you add these together this is a 26% increase in power prices for solar households. Every July the Electricity Networks adjust retail pricing for the next year. Despite Government spin about lowering prices, the evidence on your power bill is the opposite. Some retailers are lowering the rate of power and then hiking the daily supply charge, claiming to have lowered prices! Others have kept the solar FIT high and whacked bigger increases in power and supply charge on customers.
Are you tired of the constant deception about your power bills as every retailer creates a different spin on the same news - higher prices? The bottom line is they all buy power from the same place and get it through the same wires. The illusion of competition is a sideshow. What’s really happening is a lot of talk, while gas, coal and oil corporations rip us off with support from the Government!
Solar is the Best Way to Save Money on Power
The good news is the value of solar energy you use yourself just went up. Investment in solar power has a return rate of 25-35% p.a.! Compare that to investment in shares, property or super! Once your solar system has paid for itself in 3-4 years, it will continue to make free power for years to come.
ACCC Recommends Solar Rebate be Axed in 2 Years
The Government wants to get rid of incentives for rooftop solar. The ACCC report they commissioned has threatened to phase out the solar rebate in two years instead of 13. Our average customer saves $4,104 on the price of a new solar system now and any move to axe the rebate will put prices up by 50%. If you are thinking about getting solar, you had better move now while rebates are still in place.
SolarEdge optimizers ensure every panel operates separately to prevent energy loss to whole strings of panels when one is shaded or soiled.
> Monitor the performance of each panel. 888 Solar Tek sets up all your SolarEdge monitoring free with every installation so you can see the output and history for your whole rooftop solar system. >
> Smarter Home Energy Management. This system senses when extra power is available to operate your hot water heater, pool, air conditioning or pumps. SolarEdge have the best inverter technology available which can Timers are dumb because they do not sense when your solar system is produce up to 25% more power than normal string inverters. With 25 exporting to the grid. You can also activate appliances from work. year warranties Solar Edge is competively priced but offers significant 888 Solar Tek are the solar technology experts. We have many years life time savings. experience in IT and love embracing new ways to make your solar power more Here are a few of the advantages available with SolarEdge:
> Buy once to last a lifetime. 25 year inverter warranties available. > More power for longer. Every solar panel losses power as it ages at different rates. SolarEdge allows each panel to give its best all the time and not be dragged down by weaker panels in a string. > Superior safety with SafeDC. If the inverter is shut down or there is a short circuit on the roof, the Solar Edge optimizers shut down the power immediately. No fire or electrocution risk. > Install more panels anytime on any roof angle. SolarEdge optimizers allow different types of panels to go anywhere and face any direction on the same inverter. Traditional string inverters do not allow new panels to go with old and they must all be on the same roof plane.
efficient. We give you free onsite training and support for 12 months after installation. Call us on 6688 4480 to find out more... 888 Solar Tek only service the Northern Rivers, support local installers and provide free on-site service and training for 12 months and personal service for all our customers. 888 Solar Tek is a local, family owned and run company that delivers good old-fashioned customer care and service with leading edge technology..
The Best Technology in Solar Power, Batteries & Solar Hot Water 888 Call Vincent Selleck for a Free Consultation
Ph 02 6688 4480
www.888solartek.com.au
12
ENTERTAINMENT
AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS
Best to go bush with John FORMER nurseryman and landscape gardener John Turnbull has been passionate about native flora since his school and Boy Scout days. The 64-year-old is currently the Tweed Shire Council Bushland Officer and his latest project is a new online guide to help home gardeners and professional landscapers, particularly in the Byron and Tweed Shires, to choose the right native species for their gardens and projects. “It allows users to make better informed plant selection choices that can benefit their local bushland,” he said of the new web guide. “Choosing local native plants prevents the introduction of species that will invade and degrade our natural environment and reduce it capacity to support our unique native fauna and flora; much of my budget is spent on controlling escaped garden plants so any reduction in these
PLANTMAN: Former nurseryman and landscape gardener John Turnbull is the Tweed Shire Council Bushland Officer. Photo: Contributed species.” John is obviously passionate about native flora and has worked with plants in all sorts of forms over the years including working as ecologist mapping native vegetation for Local Government Areas in both NSW and Queensland, a nurseryman and
landscape gardener. His current job Tweed Shire Bushland Officer sees him work within the Natural Resource Management Unit and manage Tweed Council’s bushland estate (2.000+ha). “On ground this translates into ensuring that we manage the
bushfire risk posed by our bushland to life, property and the environment and management of invasive weed species, many of which are escaped garden plants (council also manages for insect pests and vertebrate pests but not my role),” John said. While the guide is easy to use and available
online at tweed.nsw.gov. au. Council will hold some short training courses in how to use the guide. To register your interest, phone John at the council on 6670 2400 or go to tweed.nsw.gov.au/ Controls/NativeSpecies Planting/Landing.aspx
Enter to win fine collection of Australian novels SENIORS newspapers are offering you a chance to win books that have been recognised as the best in Australia. The Miles Franklin Literary Award is Australia’s most prestigious literature prize. Established through the will of My Brilliant Career author Miles Franklin, the prize is awarded each year to the author of a novel
WEDnESDay 19Th SEpTEMbER
which is of the highest literary merit and presents Australian life in any of its phases. First presented in 1957, the award helps to support authors and to foster uniquely Australian literature. Miles Franklin believed that “without an indigenous literature, people can remain alien in their own soil”. She also had first-hand
experience of struggling to make a living as a writer and was the beneficiary of two literary prizes herself. 2018 award The short list for the 2018 Miles Franklin Literary Award has been announced. The short-listed titles are: ■ No More Boats by Felicity Castagna (Giramondo) ■ The Life to Come by Michelle de Kretser (A&U)
■ The Last Garden by Eva Hornung (Text) ■ Storyland by Catherine McKinnon (Fourth Estate) ■ Border Districts by Gerald Murnane (Giramondo) ■ Taboo by Kim Scott (Picador). If you would like the chance to win a selection of these books, please read the advertisement on page 27.
Win Tickets to A Special Screening Thanks to Event Cinemas, we’re giving away 10 double passes for readers to attend the Seniors Morning Tea and Screening of Disney’s ‘Christopher Robin’, from 10am on Wednesday 19th September.^ Tickets $10* for Cinebuzz for Seniors Members. Sign up to be a member for free online at eventcinemas.com.au Tickets for this screening go on sale on August 15.
In the heart warming live action adventure Disney’s “Christopher Robin,” the young boy who embarked on countless adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood with his band of spirited and lovable stuffed animals, has grown up and lost his way. Now it is up to his childhood friends to venture into our world and help Christopher Robin remember the loving and playful boy who is still inside. Enter online at seniorsnews.com.au/competitions
*Online booking fees apply. ^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 06/08/18-31/08/18. Competition drawn 10am 03/09/18 at Cnr Mayne Rd and Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006. Winners announced in Seniors October Editions 2018. Total prize value $200.00 (including GST). Entry is open to all permanent residents of Queensland, residing in the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane 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
6848374aa
Tania Phillips Journalist
introductions is beneficial.” The guide was funded by the NSW Government’s Environmental Trust Education Grant Program of 2015 with the support of Brunswick Valley Landcare Inc, Tweed Landcare Inc, local garden clubs and other support groups. According to John, it’s aimed at complementing the existing hard copy My Local Native Garden booklet, which is available for a gold coin donation from council offices. After a lifetime working with them, John believes native plants can only enhance a garden and is keen to encourage home gardeners to plant more of them. “Locally occurring native plants have an inherent beauty and come in a wide range of forms and habits; many have beautiful flowers or foliage flushes,” he said. “Planted in the areas where they occur naturally they are easy and quick to establish and once established will require less inputs to sustain them in relation to watering and fertiliser. “They also provide nesting, shelter and feeding resources for many local native fauna
13
SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018
Put a taste of exotica on your list Embrace the Internet!
It’s time to jump on the social media bandwagon! Let Seniors ease you into the exciting world of online. Get every news story - big or small, the latest exclusive offers, plus a whole heap more when you connect with Seniors on social media.
Visit facebook.com/seniorsnews or seniorsnews.com.au
14
AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS
Five top Spanish areas A GROWING number of Australian visitors to Europe are using their long service leave or summer holidays as a time to try an overseas retirement on for size. In a new report, the editors at international living.com/au have pinpointed five must-see spots in Spain. If Spain is on your must-see list, here are five of its most charming spots to visit: 1. Toledo IF COBBLESTONE streets and walled cities make your heart beat faster, Toledo is your place. Set on a hill almost entirely surrounded by a winding river, this Medieval city is a maze of cute alleys full of restaurants and shops, spacious squares dominated by churches and cute apartments tucked away above the shopping streets. If you’re a hiker, make time to wander the portion of the Don Quixote trail that passes by the city. About 20 minutes up the hill outside town on the trail, you’ll come to a
MOUNTAIN VIEWS: Frigiliana has sunny squares and lemon trees along the lanes.
Toledo, a Medieval city..
viewpoint with breathtaking vistas of the city, especially at sunset. You’ll find lots of locals here in the early evening, snuggling their sweethearts as they sit on the wall and watch the sun set. 2. Frigiliana TUCKED up in the mountains of southern Spain, this whitewashed town is a warren of cute cobbled alleyways, brick steps and streets lined with flowerpots at every turn. Expect sweeping mountain views, sunny squares and lemon trees along the lanes.
lush, green mountains rise in the distance. For excellent views, walk the Medieval city walls, with their rough white and red stones. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, wander the narrow alleys of the Jewish Quarter, a major filming location for the show. And if you’re a foodie, don’t miss out on the pa amb tomaquet – tomato, garlic and olive oil on toast – and calcots – a special kind of grilled onion that you’ll only find in this region and only in the winter.
The town frequently makes it onto “most beautiful places in Spain” lists and it’s only a short drive from the coast, so you can get your mountain fix here and then head down to popular Nerja for sun, surf and beachfront dining or Malaga for Moorish fortresses overlooking the sea and lively nightlife. 3. Girona DRIVE about an hour-and-a-half north of Barcelona and you’ll find yourself in old Girona, where black metal street lamps light the narrow cobblestone corridors and
beautiful
Madrid, Spain’s enormous, elegant capital.
Photos: Contributed
4. Seville IF DELICATE architecture, castles and flamenco dancing sound fabulously exotic, head to Seville – Spain’s sunniest city and home of the Alcazar Castle complex. Stay overnight in a restored 17th-century palacio. Attend a flamenco show. Visit Seville Cathedral, the world’s largest. And don’t miss the city’s many tapas bars, like Catalina Casa de Comidas. For a more unusual experience, make your way to the 13th century
convent for a special sweet treat called yemas de San Leandro. 5. Madrid FOR museums, galleries and classic Spanish architecture, make your way to Madrid – Spain’s enormous, elegant capital (just 20 minutes by train from charming Toledo). Source: International Living.com/au. The full report can be found here: 5 Must-See Places in Sunny Spain or more information on Spain can be found, here: Spain, the Complete Guide.
CUBA TO THE MED Exclusive Fly/Cruise/Stay
Departs Brisbane 10th March 2019
•
• • • •
•
26 NIGHTS FROM
$6,299* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE
• • • • •
YOUR EXCLUSIVE TOUR INCLUDES: Economy Class Airfares; departing Brisbane to Cancun & on to Havana, returning from Venice to Brisbane Arrival & Departure Transfers between Airport & Hotel in Cancun, Mexico FLY, CRUISE & Sin TA Y PACKAGE 2 nights Accommodation Cancun Arrival Transfer Cuba 11 NinIGHavana, HTS from $5,1from 49* the Airport to the Cruise Port 20 night Cruise on MSC Opera from Havana to Venice in an Inside Cabin, based on Bella Experience inclusive of port taxes Option to upgrade to Balcony Cabin based on Fantastica Experience All meals on MSC cruise itinerary Tipping not included in cruise fare Transfer in Venice from Cruise Port to Venice hotel 1 nights accommodation in Venice Transfer from Venice Hotel to Airport
EXCLUSIVE TO TRIPAWAY HOLIDAYS THROUGH THESE HELLOWORLD STORES
Conditions apply. Airfare pricing is subject to change and availability at time of booking. Cabins subject to availability. Single cabin prices are available, subject to availability. Options available for pre and post cruise extensions. Full itinerary available in-store and information subject to change as a consequence of final berth or anchorage availability. Completed Tripaway Holidays Booking Form required at time of deposit. Non-refundable deposit of $500 per person due at time of booking with second deposit of $3000 per person due within 48 hours of booking. Final payment required by 27 November 2018. A completed MSC Booking Form is required for all bookings and is required to be completed on-line. MSC Cruise, hotels & transfer cancellation & amendment charges are available with full itinerary. Changes after document issue will incur a fee of AUD150 and airline fees will apply subject to chosen airline carrier. Travel Insurance is strongly recommended. Travel Visas– an ESTA visa is required for transit via USA and a tourist visa is required for entry into Cuba, which is available upon check-in to flight from Cancun to Prices valid at 1 August 2018 and subject to availability booking is finalised. Quotedof price does not include travel insurance visas. Travel Schmoo Pty Ltd quoted trading as Tripaway Cruise on & Travel, TripawaySTATEROOMS. Corporate Travel & Tripaway Holidays is independently owned & operated under license from American andIn-store. Helloworld Travel. *Havana. Conditions Apply. Credit Card Fees Apply. until Prices correct at time printing and valid until 30or March 2018. Cabins are based OUTSIDE For Full Terms and Conditions see your Helloworld TravelExpress Agent
15
SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018
COMPaRe huNdReds
of escorted, guided & hosted
hOlIdays
Patti Newton
Brand Ambassador
Let TV Icon Patti Newton show you how to avoid all that confusion and stress trying to find your perfect holiday. Discover and compare hundreds of guided, hosted and escorted holidays right here - all in the one place !!!!!
6850018aa
seaRCh. COMPaRe. BO OOK. It’s that easy! myhostedholidays.com m start the search!
Visit myhostedholidays.com to find your next getaway.
16
AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS
‘‘
welcome to a definitive list of the world’s best journeys
PURE WONDER: Experience by water the Pianemo islands, Raja Ampat, Indonesia.
Photo: MariusLtu
Ultimate top travel list
Selected by international travel experts, these are a selection of the very top travel destinations you should have in your bucket list
IF YOU were wondering what are the best places to visit, then the ultimate bucket travel list is here for your enjoyment. The World’s Best Journeys list for 2018 has been released and 50 destinations and experiences have been selected by Flight Network and more than 500 top travel journalists, agencies, bloggers and editors. It’s the ultimate inside guide to diverse and dynamic adventures; for the seasoned traveller and for the ones who want to live life to full for as long as they can travel. Welcome to the most definitive list of the World’s Best Journeys – a truly inspiring collection of the top 50 transformative trips every traveller must experience in their lifetime. This inspiring resource is an unparalleled guide to diverse and dynamic adventures with exhilarating activities in
the most stunning, mystical, and culturally rich lands on the planet. We start from the bottom of the list and will work our way over the coming months. This month it’s 50 to 46. Hold on to your seat while we take off on a fabulous journey Asia, Africa, South and North America.
SAIL THROUGH THE RAJA AMPAT ARCHIPELAGO
Sail through one of the most mesmerizing regions in Indonesia, the Raja Ampat Archipelago, an astonishing collection of 600 islands. These isles remain largely untouched by the modern world and feature vibrant jungles, satiny white beaches, blue waters with almost endless visibility, and a rich tapestry of Indonesian culture. Climb aboard your boutique ship in Sorong and sail to Kri Island where you can start your
vacation off right with a snorkel atop the rainbow of coral reefs and gentle stroll along the immaculate beach. Then hike on Gam Island, home to the famous Red Bird-of-paradise, before sailing to the Wayag Islands and exploring caves, lagoons, and narrow inlets. Mix with the locals in Deer and exotic wildlife in Boo Kecil lagoon, then indulge in the gorgeous landscapes of forests and rolling hills on Misool. Take advantage of your relaxing transportation as you cruise by the alluring shores of the Farondi Islands, then say yes to more snorkelling and beach-chilling on the Kalig and Fiabacet Islands. Finish your trip with the colourful marine life on Kepulauan Penyu, and friendly locals on Markhesa Bay. Getting there: Fly into Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. From Jakarta, catch the daily
non-stop flight to Domine Eduard Osok Airport in Sorong.
MOTORCYCLING MADAGASCAR COAST TO COAST
Madagascar’s difficult road system makes motorcycle touring an excellent choice for navigating the different terrain and having intimate views of volcanoes, the rainforest and the Malagasy people. This bold motorcycle journey begins in the capital Antananarivo, where you set out to Ampefy passing the Itasy region’s lakes, waterfalls and volcanoes. After a night’s rest, you’ll ride to Antsirabe along rice paddies and quaint villages. The next leg takes riders to Ambohimahasoa, passing lakes of Andraikiba and Tritiva before resting at Lemur Forest Camp. The road to Manakara leads to the coast through the
rainforest. Enjoy a canoe trip before riding toward Mananjary in the Indian Ocean rim and head to Ranomafana to see the best park on the island. Riding to the Deep South, you’ll pass rock formations near Fianarantsoa before arriving in the vineyard region of Ambalavao. Continuing south from Ambalavao to Ranohira, riders pass the Anja reserve for a glimpse of ringtail lemurs. Bikers can spend a day exploring canyons and riding along sandstone formations of Isalo National Park. Heading down between Ranohira and Ifaty, riders can take a break in Ifaty’s beach village and check out baobab trees before catching the flight back to Antananarivo the next day. Getting there: Flights arrive into Ivato Airport, 20km north of Antananarivo. It’s best to take a charter taxi due to the challenging road conditions. Less than
17
SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018
Sunset in the famous Avenida de Baobab near Morondava in Madagascar. Photo: pawopa3336
Ride the Death Road of Bolivia.
NATURE’S PARADISE: chameleon.
Drive the Sea to Sky Highway, British Columbia.
Follow the vast Wildebeest migration in Tanzania.
region to begin breeding season. Getting there: Several mobile tented camp companies are available to accommodate patrons. Arrive by flying into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi and transfer to Wilson Airport for domestic flights into Tanzania. Another option is to fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam and make your way to Tanzania’s northern safari destinations by using charter flights out of nearby Arusha Airport.
tour company. Minibuses and GoTransTur buses take travelers into La Paz. Minibuses travel to Avenida 16 de Julio, La Paz’s main street and Plaza Isabel La Catolica where several hotels and inns are located.
A
Madagascan
panther
Photo: belizar73
to tickle the senses 20 per cent of the roads in Madagascar are sealed, leaving the remainder riddled with massive potholes so it’s wise to have a local driver take you to Antananarivo. During the rainy season many of the country’s routes are impassable and a local driver would know the appropriate detours. Motorcycles can be leased in many places in Madagascar, including Nosy Be, Tulear, and Ile Sainte Marie.
FOLLOW THE WILDEBEEST MIGRATION IN TANZANIA
As migratory river crossings go, the great wildebeest migration in Tanzania is the most dramatic. Rain-swollen and deep, the river tests the wild herds plunging into its murky, crocodile infested waters as they rush to the other side. Navigating the river’s steep cliffs and fierce currents, they undergo
their frenzied migration through the Serengeti National Park to rich grasslands of the park’s southern region of the Ndutu area of the Ngorongoro Conservation. Following the migration, the safari begins by jeep in the western region of the park near the Grumeti River, where wildebeest move past zebras, elands and gazelles who inhabit this corridor. Not only do wildebeests have to survive the river crossing, the region is home to predators like lions, cheetah, leopards and hyenas. Pressing on to the eastern section of the Serengeti, wildebeests cover the valleys following long rains, pouring through the narrow route toward the Angata Kiti pastures. The safari bears witness to the wildebeest’s annual preservation quest when the animals reach precious grazing land in the Serengeti’s southern
RIDE THE DEATH ROAD OF BOLIVIA
Featuring cross markings where many have fallen, the Death Road of Bolivia attracts thrill-seeking cyclists from around the globe each year. A road surrounded by mountainous terrain and terrifying cliffs connecting Bolivia to the capital city, guides lead bikers on the journey with a 4650m ascent
from La Paz to La Cumbe Pass. Crossing snow-covered mountain peaks, villages, and wildlife like alpacas and llamas, cyclists reaching the top must shift to a treacherous descent of 1100m on a slim, dirt road to wheel into the lush jungle of the Amazon below. Cyclists ride through the spray of nearby waterfalls before reaching the bottom in Yolosa. Outside of Yolosa, riders rest at La Senda Verde Animal Refuge to eat and take a swim in the pool. And, if you still have energy to expend, try Bolivia’s exhilarating zip line, Zzip the Flying Fox, before heading back to La Paz. Getting there: Arrive by flying into El Alto International Airport in Bolivia or through Cusco, Peru and Arica, Chile. Just 25 minutes from the center of La Paz, an airport taxi will get you to the city where you can coordinate with your bike
DRIVE THE SEA TO SKY HIGHWAY, BRITISH COLUMBIA
Curving along cool waters of the Pacific, the Sea to Summit Highway snakes north from Vancouver for 120km before reaching the resort town of Whistler in the Coast Mountains and it’s a drive of a lifetime. Leave from Vancouver and drive to Lynn Canyon to walk the 50 metre-high suspension bridge at Lynn Canyon Park. Hop in the car and steer west towards Shannon Falls and see massive falls flowing an impressive 335m down the Howe Sound. Drive to Stawamus
Chief Provincial Park for a hike to stretch your legs. For a unique vantage point, take the Sea to Sky Gondola 900m up the side of Mount Habrich. Get a bird’s eye view of the coastal mountains boarding a charter flight above Garibaldi Provincial Park. Continue your journey with a walk around one of the three lakes at Alice Lake Provincial Park. North of Garibaldi, Brandywine Falls Provincial Park features magnificent falls to ponder from a viewing deck. After your drive, spend the night in Whistler and hike the Peak to Peak 360 Experience.,. Getting there: Arriving by air you’ll likely be flying into Vancouver International Airport. Major car rental companies have desks at the airport. flightnetwork.com/blog /worlds-best-journeys
18
AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS
Bait a hook here: A line to top 10 of the world’s fishing spots Try your fishing skills in very unusual locations.
WHETHER it’s pinning down piranha, battling black marlin or shrimping on horseback, fishing offers holiday fun and local insight. Not to mention dinner.
1. SALMON: UMBA RIVER, KOLA PENINSULA, RUSSIA
Aurora borealis, reindeer herds, snow: Russia’s Kola Peninsula is a winter wonderland beyond compare. But come spring, this Arctic eden morphs into a different kind of paradise: salmon heaven. Each May, fisher-folk flock to the Kola’s 123km-long Umba River to cast for some of the finest, fattest Atlantic salmon on earth. The Umba is believed to have up to five salmon runs a year, making for an almost endless flow of fish. But nothing comes easy here: the Umba is isolated, the wading tough going, and anglers have to share their space with the greatest fish fans of them all: bears. The season is May to the end of October, catch-and-release only. For more information, go to murman.ru/guide/
tourism/fishing-eng.html.
2. GIANT BLACK MARLIN: CAIRNS, AUSTRALIA
On Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, anyone with a snorkelling mask can find Nemo. But it takes a tough cookie to land a legend. The giant black marlin is one of the most coveted catches on the planet: weighing up to 750kg and able to swim up to 130km an hour, it has the ability to turn hardened game fishers (and, after several hours in battle, their wrists) to jelly. The stunning 250km stretch between Cairns and Lizard Island is the best place on earth to hook one: more giant black marlin are caught in these waters than in the rest of the world combined. The season runs from early September to late December. For more information go to cairnsbluewatergfc.com.au.
3. CATFISH: SOUTHERN USA
Y’all hungry? Git noodlin’! Also known as cat-daddling, gurgling and hillbilly hand-fishing,
noodling is the not-exactly refined art of shoving your hand into an underwater hole, waiting until you get bitten by a flathead catfish and wrestling the thrashing “mudcat” to the surface. Noodling has its drawbacks (catfish have a lot of teeth, and you never know what is lurking in that hole) but the sport isn’t just for masochistic kicks: Native Americans were highly skilled hand fishers, and in many southern states, the practice has become a much-valued tradition passed down over generations. Solo noodling is a no-no; an online search will bring up plenty of expeditions for the wannabe cat-daddler. It’s legal in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma. South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin. The season runs from May to August.
4. TAIMEN: EG-UUR RIVER BASIN, MONGOLIA
Think Mongolia, and it’s yaks, nomads and exceptionally salty tea
ASIAN FISHING: Experience the serenity of evening fishing for squid on Halong Bay in Vietnam. Photo: katoosha
ICE FISHING: Join in the annual competition at the Brainerd Jaycees $150,000 Ice Fishing Extravaganza.
Photo: Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing
that probably spring to mind. But this remote central Asian outpost – more famous for steppes than streams – is one of the last remaining havens for the world’s largest trout species, the taimen. A fierce, cannibalistic monster (they’re known locally as “river wolves”),
Don’t miss Brisbane’s
BIG DAY!
Bridge to Brisbane is back for 2018! Gather your family and friends get ready to make the journey for a fun day strolling over the historic Story Bridge and past the iconic sights of Brisbane City.
REGISTER TODAY
bridgetobrisbane.com.au
BE-AR-WARE: Watch out for the bears when salmon fishing in Russia.
taimen can grow up to 2m and smash the scales at 90kg; fishing for these whoppers is not for the faint of heart or the feeble of arm. The fish can live for up to 50 years, giving determined taimen trollers a lifetime to land the perfect beast. Catch-and-release of
Photo: MaharaMK
taimen is strictly enforced. The season is June to November.
5. PIRANHA: AMAZON BASIN, BRAZIL
It can happen to anyone: a few enjoyable hours watching piranha
19
SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018 www.ariautowers.com.
6. SHRIMP: OOSTDUINKERKE, BELGIUM
‘‘
Exercise caution: in this fishing story, the only one that gets away should be you.
B-movies, and then bam! Aquaphobia! Since swimming is now off, why not spend your spare time fishing for the demons that turned you into a neurotic mess? Head to Manaus, capital of the Brazilian state of Amazonia, and join one of the many tours that offer piranha fishing (and in some cases, eating). A hunk of meat lands
them by the dozen, but their razor teeth can cut through steel hooks as well as fingers. Exercise caution: in this fishing story, the only one that gets away should be you. July to October is the dry season in the Amazon and a dangerous time for piranha fishing as the fish are hungry and aggressive. Tours can be organised through
If you find rubbernecking an irresistible pastime, head to Oostduinkerke, on Belgium’s southwest coast, where prawn fishermen – paardenvissers in Flemish – use not shrimpers but sturdy stallions to harvest the North Sea’s fruits de mer. For the last 500 years, the fishermen have galloped into the sea on horseback, their steeds dragging nets and a wooden carriage (to scare the shrimp to the surface) through cold, crashing waves in a tradition recently recognised by Unesco as being of “intangible cultural heritage”. This four-legged fishing is best left to the experts, but lucky visitors can score a ride in the shrimp-scaring rig. The seasons are February to May and September to November. For more informaiton, go to visitor.koksijde.be.
7. GOLIATH TIGERFISH: CONGO RIVER BASIN
For an adrenaline rush that really will send you reeling, head to the Congo to hunt down the goliath tigerfish, a terrifyingly toothy brute with a temper just as sharp. Africa’s equivalent of the piranha, this aggressive predator has a history of attacking humans, and has been known to maul birds in flight. Growing up to 1.5m and weighing in at
70kg-plus, the mbenga (as it’s known locally) is no easy catch: dangerous day-long battles have made it one of the world’s greatest sports fishing challenges. If you want to battle the mbenga, you must join an organised excursion for your own safety. The best time is catch one is during the Congo’s dry season, June to October.
8. ICE FISHING: BRAINERD, USA
Do you like to dig holes in ice and stare into them for a long time? Then the central-Minnesota town of Brainerd is your dream destination. The annual Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza is the largest of its kind in the world, attracting more than 12,000 hopefuls keen on the cold… and on hooking themselves a cool $US150,000 worth of prizes. Organisers pre-drill 20,000 holes into the thankfully very well-frozen Gull Lake, from which (d)anglers pull up walleye, perch and bass. Go to icefishing.org for details on the Ice Fishing Extravaganza held each January.
9. SQUID: HALONG BAY, VIETNAM
The word squid mightn’t conjure up the warm-andfuzzies right now, but after a night on Halong Bay, that will change. Dozens of junks ply the bay’s jade-green waters on moonless evenings, fishing for the slippery little cephalopods that go into the region’s best-
known speciality: squid sausages. With only a bamboo rod, a catch net and a lamp to attract the squid to the surface, anyone can hook themselves an impressive 30-plus squid in just a couple of hours. The stillness of the bay dotted by the dreamy reflection of the lamps makes for a romantic evening. The season begins in April and runs through until January. The biggest squid are caught between October and November.
10. BROWN TROUT: RIO GRANDE, TIERRA DEL FUEGO
Tierra del Fuego is Spanish for “Land of Fire” and au fait fly-fishers couldn’t agree more: when it comes to trout, this place is hot. The archipelago boasts the world’s best sea-run brown trout angling: the minimum average weight of the region’s brown trout is 4kg (one in 50 catches are said to be 11kg or above), and the Rio Grande teems with an estimated 70,000 of the prized fish. Being at the end of the earth, Tierra del Fuego can be hard to get to, but Rio Grande’s mammoth trout statue will let you know you’ve arrived. Despite the abundance of trout, there are strict fishing restrictions on Tierra del Fuego: catch- and-release firmly applies. The season is from December until mid-April. Reproduced with permission from www.lonelyplanet.com, author Tamara Sheward.
Join senior tourists on an Amazon river boat and fish for piranha.
HORSE FISHING: In Oostduinkerke, Belgium shrimp fishermen uses horses to help with their fishing. Photo: PepiteVoyage
Go hillbilly hand-fishing or noodling for catfish in the USA.
‘‘
Being at the end of the earth, Tierra del Fuego can be hard to get to, but Rio Grande’s mammoth trout statue will let you know you’ve arrived.
Photo: miralex
Photo: abadonian
20
AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS
Special needs travel easier Tracey Johnstone MISSING out on travelling because you have special needs may be a thing of the past with a new agency, Travel With Special Needs, coming online. Its aim is to service travellers and their carers with the jobs of researching travel options, planning the trip and then booking the trip. Janeece Keller of Bound Round has partnered with Julie Jones of Have Wheelchair Will Travel to offer this new specialist service for people looking for accessibility-friendly travel experiences. “Travel With Special Needs can service anyone who is travelling with any sort of specific requirements, be it a senior with a walking frame and mobility issues, or a senior with a chronic illness and requiring travel with a companion or specific medication, or an elderly person who is experiencing vision or hearing impairment,” Janeece said. “We are trying to be inclusive of all different sorts of specific needs, but what we are not trying to be is generalist. “Completely
SPECIAL TRAVEL: Travel With Special Needs aims to service travellers and their carers with the jobs of researching travel options, planning the trip and then booking the trip. Photo: Jodi Jacobson able-bodied people who can hike up a mountain completely unassisted and travel in economy for a long haul and not give it a second thought – that’s not us. “If you have to give it a second thought, that’s us.”
Initially the agency is offering general travel assistance while the team gain more information on how hotel, tour and activity partners, and transport providers cater for this travel market segment. As they have found
getting answers to these questions aren’t easily found by a Google search, Julie Jones has the job of using her extensive industry expertise to ask the in-depth questions and the pull the information together. The agency’s start-up
tour packages include cruise offers and travel to north Queensland and a Blue Mountains escape. While the focus is currently on offers in Australia, Janeece said expanding to overseas tour support is an option in the future.
Janeece said The Travel With Special Needs website has helpful information on it. To find out more about Travel With Special Needs, phone 1300 404 100 or go to www.travelwith specialneeds.com.au.
The Carnival of Flowers welcomes your pets activities and destinations. Tourism councillor Geoff McDonald said the new Petals and Pups program was one of several innovations to this year’s carnival. “When you win accolades and awards as we have, you have to do even more to remain fresh and stay on top,” he said.
The concept for Petals and Pups came from volunteer Erin Kehoe O’Shea, who noted how many people took their dogs to Laurel Park during last year’s event. While dogs had always been welcome at the carnival – with the imaginatively named “Puppy” the pomeranian marching beside his
owner, Toowoomba Thistle Band drum major Hugh Morgan, way back at the first carnival parade in 1950 – Cr McDonald said this would be the first time dogs and their owners were actively catered for. The result is more than 30 dog-friendly activities, 27 off-leash parks, 20 human-and-hound
accommodation stays, and three structured self-guided itineraries to choose from – The Cultured Canine, Pampered Pup and Adventure Dog – complete with dog-friendly places to eat and stay. Another innovation is the Chef’s Brunch, which gives patrons the chance to meet and eat with
Mediterranean-style cook Julia Busuttil Nishimura, and hear about her new cookbook Ostro, at Gip’s Restaurant (appropriately enough, named after a dog) on Sunday, September 23. The carnival runs from September 21-30. For the full itinerary of events, go to tcof.com.au.
Congratulations to our Winners
Congratulations to the winners of our June Andre Rieu Giveaway. Beth Hohl Beth Milne Connie Canale Doreen Hayes
Glenda Henry Graham King Jullie Teuben Leslie Trathen
Pamela Walsh Susan Downey
Stay tuned to the paper and our website for the latest Seniors News Giveaways Visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitions 6818804ab
THIS is the Year of the Dog, not just in the Chinese calendar but at Toowoomba’s Carnival of Flowers. The city is embracing the latest tourist craze that has swept Europe and America – with up to two-thirds of pet owners wanting to eat and travel with their pets, and looking for dog-friendly
SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018
FEATURE
Community group guide
Community notes
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@seniorsnewspaper.com.au.
TWEED HOSPITAL AUXILIARY
IN PLACE of the usual Fete this year the Tweed Hospital Auxiliary will be holding an exciting new event. Our “Spring Carnival of Crafts” on October 12 and 13, will be a celebration of a variety of crafts and we are inviting expressions of interest from the craft community to hold a stall at the event. The cost of a stall will be $25 per day. For more details email the secretary at tweedaux craftcarnival @gmail.com. Please include a brief description of your product.
TINTENBAR HALL ACTIVITIES
CARPET Bowls: fortnightly on a Friday 10am-noon on August 24 and September 9 and 21. Bus Trip: a Community bus trip “Learn the Story of New Italy” is planned in mid September. Phone Marg on 6687 8033 for more information about these activities.
VIEW CLUBS
Coolangatta Tweed OUR next luncheon meeting will be held on the September 20 at the South Tweed Sports Club at 11am-11.30am start. We meet on the third Thursday of each month. All ladies are very welcome. Apologies/bookings with Elaine on 5524 4461.
PROBUS CLUBS
Banora Point NEW to Tweed Area? Retired or semi-retired? Join us at Banora Point Probus. We meet on the Fourth Monday of each month at the South Tweed Sports Club at 10am. We are a mixed club, and have interesting speakers, as well as an outing each month. The speaker for August 27 is Graham Stephenson, travel writer and photographer. Phone Ron on (07) 5523 4016. Hastings Point/Tweed Coast OUR next meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 21 at 10am at Tricare Retirement Community, 87 Tweed
Coast Road, Hastings Point, NSW. The main speaker will be Dr Elizabeth Hawkins, who will return with a fascinating presentation on whales (following a previous talk on dolphins). The following meeting will be on Tuesday, September 18 when the speaker will be Kim Elderton, a clinical nurse specialist with experience on hospital ships. Inquiries with Jean Watson on 6670 4072.
U3A
Tweed Coast THE First Friday Forum on September 7 will provide insights into the fascinating world of perfumes and how French fashion played an important part in their creation. Everyone is welcome and we appreciate a $2 donation for afternoon tea. Join us at 2pm at The Uniting Church Hall, 24A Kingscliff Street, Kingscliff. For inquiries, phone Di on (02) 6674 4046 or go to tweedcoast.u3a net.org.au.
LIFEBRIDGE AGED CARE SERVICES Support designed to meet your needs. Provider of Home Care Packages and Commonwealth Home Support Services: Domestic Assistance, Social Support & Respite Care, Gardening, Personal Services, Individual & Group Activities and Case Management.
Discover Lifebridge Australia Call 1800 043 186 or visit lifebridge.org.au
21
IN BLOOM: The Twin Towns and District Garden Club Annual Flower and Garden Show is on again (September 29). Twin Towns WE INVITE you to an Open Day on August 22 at 9am-1pm to see our line dancers in class and many other classes. There is also a free barbecue on Friday, August 24 at 10am sponsored by COTA. There is art by our art classes: Alex Kodela; Pen & Ink: Miche’al Cowie; Light Exercise: Mary Ludwig; Qi Gong: Isa Eyre; Literature: June Carson; Soloist: Anita Hatton and a memorable talk from Ingrid Steinberg - “Take a Walk on the Wild Side”. Join in or observe. 4 Boyd Street, Tugun. Bookings phone (07) 5534 7333 or email
u3a1office@gmail.com.
TWIN TOWNS & DISTRICT GARDEN CLUB
OUR next meeting will be on Monday, September 10. Venue will be South Tweed Sports Club, Minjungbal Drive, South Tweed in the downstairs auditorium. Our guest speaker will be Ryan Fuller, a photographer, speaking about the “Beauty of Nature”, giving tips/hints for amateur photographers on best photographing nature. Also, Gordon Smith on “Preparing exhibits for the Flower & Garden Show”. The hall opens at 8.30am
for 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 and the general meeting at 10am. Cost: $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 0412 638 373. Diary Note: Annual Flower & Garden Show will be September 29. CONTINUED ON PAGE 28
22
NEWS
AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS
A prestigious vision for luxury Redcliffe living WITH the projection of more than five million to be over the age of 65 by 2025, downsizing to a more convenient, luxurious lifestyle by the beach to enjoy the positive effects of health and well-being by the seashore, is still high on the list of living choices for many seniors. Now under construction by Traders in Purple, the new Bathers Beachside development is a high-end, luxury project consisting of 24 expansive apartments positioned directly opposite the water in Margate. This prestigious development is for those for whom only the best will do. A closely guarded local secret, Margate with its 2 kilometres of sandy beach is a little piece of paradise tucked away on Queensland’s stunning Redcliffe Peninsula. At Bathers Beachside you will find a world of bayside grandeur with spacious, open plan layouts of generous proportions set to become a lifestyle icon and a shining beacon on the Redcliffe Peninsula. Nature lovers will be enthralled with the sighting of approximately 22,000 migrating whales that pass through Moreton Bay from June to October each year. The lure of absolute beachfront living has seen buyers from Brisbane and across Australia excited about rediscovering the Redcliffe Peninsula. Known to those in the know, as a “tranquil pocket of paradise”, discerning buyers are offered a stunning opportunity to live so close to Moreton Bay and still be within a 35 minute commute to Brisbane’s CBD. Comprising 24 luxury three bedroom apartments from the ground floor to the third floor, Bathers Beachside capitalises on its waterfront location and uninterrupted Moreton Bay views. With its sophisticated design and sweeping vistas of the endless ocean, Bathers Beachside will appeal to those buyers searching out quality apartments in the upper $800,000 range. With a discerning palette of refined finishes and superior well
DISCERNING DESIGN: Comfort, style and easy living have been prioritised in these luxury apartments.
Bathers Beachside with its uninterrupted Moreton Bay views from all apartments. equipped kitchens complete with Miele appliances and home automation, Bathers Beachside has enjoyed great demand from buyers with off-the-plan expressions of interest and strong early sales. Traders in Purple have over 30 years of business experience and development know-how, dating back to the 1980s.
Their vision for Bathers Beachside was to encompass the local lifestyle values of the blue chip location of Margate Beach by offering open plan living, and ensuring the development responded to climate and context by maximising natural light, breezes and spaces to entertain. “Part of the Traders in Purple developer hallmark
Traders in Purple are proud developers of beautiful living spaces.
is to maximise space in the living and balcony areas of our apartments where people spend most of their time,” CEO Brett Robinson said. “Our passion for environmental sustainability goes into each and every project we develop with techniques, products and innovative designs incorporated into every development. These
Photos: Mike Curtain Photography
minimise environmental impacts and maximise the leverage of natural resources to lower living costs for buyers,” Robertson continued. Significant natural light penetration and air flow through the increased ceiling height and floor-to-ceiling glazing reduces the need for air-conditioning and artificial lighting.
Positioned an easy 35 minute drive from Brisbane’s CBD, this magnificent stretch of coastline is never over crowded. Margate Beach features soft white sand and a scenic timber boardwalk that stretches along the coastline for quiet strolls. For more information, go to bathersbeachside.com.
SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018
EXPERIENCE LUXURY LIKE NEVER BEFORE EXCLUSIVE BEACHSIDE APARTMENTS ON MARGATE BEACH, REDCLIFFE PENINSULA
A limited number of 3 bedroom home-sized waterfront apartments from $899,000 Construction has commenced. Selling fast. Secure yours today
Call Chris King on 0477 432 432 or visit our Display Centre Wednesday to Sunday at 113 Landsborough Ave (Cnr Rock St) Scarborough www.bathersbeachside.com
LIVING
23
24
LIVING
AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS
SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018
25
Living
OUTSTANDING FACILITIES: Grafton by Gateway Lifestyle is more than just a group of homes, it’s a community.
Photos: Alain Bouvier
A lifestyle worth telling your friends about
including the well-known Bridge-to-Bridge water-skiing race. Gateway Lifestyle CEO Trent Ottawa said their community provides a beautiful retreat among landscaped surrounds, with outstanding facilities and, as Ronald points out, friendly residents. “We have a great group of welcoming residents who enjoy a busy social calendar, both within our community and in the wider Grafton region,” Trent said. “With a limited number of brand new, purpose-built homes on offer at the moment, this is a great time to be downsizing into a low-maintenance lifestyle.” Chris Ryder would love to hear from anyone interested in coming by for an inspection.
BRAND INSIGHTS GRAFTON by Gateway Lifestyle is more than just a group of homes, it’s a community. A community of over-50s who share similar interests, who have a thirst for life and who are enjoying their new lifestyle. Ronald Hockey moved into his new home at Grafton earlier this year, and loves it. “I had friends who were already happily living here,” Ronald said. “I was starting to think about my needs as I get older and this seemed like the perfect solution.” Gateway Lifestyle charges no entry or exit fees under the land lease living model, enabling residents to purchase a new home for less than traditional housing options in the same area. This simple model means residents can free up capital previously tied up in land and use it to travel, take up new
A resident relaxing by the water at Grafton by Gateway Lifestyle. hobbies, or for retirement. Ronald says he loves the peaceful lifestyle he has, as well as the friendly neighbours he now counts as friends
that he’s made since moving in. “I’ve already recommended Gateway Lifestyle to several people in the past few months,
and will keep doing so to anyone that asks if it might be right for them.” Set in the beautiful Clarence Valley, Grafton is rich in history and world
famous for its annual Jacaranda Festival. The mighty Clarence River is a magnet for visitors and locals alike, with regular activities
Phone 0428 120 086 or go to the website gatewaylifestyle.com.au and look for Grafton under the ‘Communities’ tab for more information.
26
LIVING
AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS
Giant step into future
AVEO builds luxury units North West Sydney
BRAND INSIGHTS MARKET giant Aveo have taken a big step to providing “the best retirement living options on the market” with the opening of the first stage of the $400 million Aveo Bella Vista in New South Wales. Located 33km from the CBD in North West Aveo CEO Geoff Grady believes the new community, located in the $3 billion Norwest project, will provide the best lifestyle, luxury and peace of mind. “Retirement attitudes and needs are changing – people entering this stage of their life want to maintain their lifestyle, and Aveo Bella Vista is leading the charge to meet this demand by providing the best retirement living options on the market,” Mr Grady said. “Being part of the exciting Norwest precinct and incorporating beautiful gardens, a lake and retail space into the community’s design will play an instrumental role in bringing the local community together. “Aveo Bella Vista’s unrivalled location near
BIG BUCKS: The $400 million Aveo Bella Vista is set to offer the very best in lifestyle, luxury and peace of mind. Norwest Private Hospital, complemented by our on-site care services, means that we’ll be able to provide the necessary services for seniors to age in place. “Our residents will have around-the-clock access to the best possible care as and when they need it.” The soon to be opened
$75 million ‘Waratah’ stage exhibits the key attractions of the community – snooker room, function rooms and health and wellness centre, all surrounded by the beautiful water views of the Norwest precinct. And sisters Marilyn Bright and Lee Jones, who have purchased adjacent
apartments, couldn’t agree more! “I just love this location, it is so close even from where we were – we can still do everything in our surrounds, it’s just wonderful,” Marilyn said. “It was a very easy decision for me to make,” Lee added. The sisters though may
quickly find they have more neighbours than just each other. “Aveo Bella Vista has been well received with more than 750 inquiries to date, predominantly from local retirees in the Hills Shire, Blacktown and Hornsby regions who are considering their next move,” Mr Grady said.
Photo: Aveo
Aveo Bella Vista’s sales office is located at Shop 25 of Circa Retail Shopping Complex on the corner of Norbrik Drive and Circa Blvd, Bella Vista. For more information on Aveo Bella Vista, go to aveo.com.au/bellavista or phone 13 28 36 today.
When a blanket is much more than a comfort WHEN Suzie Leonardi started sewing for the first time at the age of 50, little did she suspect that her new skills would be put to good use helping those in her neighbourhood with dementia. Now she is hoping to get others to jump in and help out too. Suzie, from Pennant Hills, last year started making sensory blankets for residents at Arcare Glenhaven after picking up the skills through her sewing group, Carlingford Baptist Church’s Teapot Ministry. Suzie explained that her sewing group attended a Church Charity Day where they were shown how to make the blankets which would be distributed to dementia clients at a number of aged care residences. Sensory blankets are made by taking different materials and items and using them too create a
blanket which provides warmth and comfort while also engaging both the mind and hands through the tactile feel of the items sewn into the blanket. “I had been making the blankets with my sewing group which met once a fortnight when my daughter, who is a chef at Arcare Glenhaven, asked me if I could run a few up for the residents,” Suzie said. “I enjoy making the blankets with my group so was happy to contribute where I could.” Suzie, a swim teacher for children with special needs and a teacher’s aide before her retirement, has now donated three sensory blankets to Arcare Glenhaven for residents with dementia. “I use a range of materials and textures,” she said. “Corduroy, lace, velvet, rope, zippers, rods,
KNITTED UP: Suzie Leonardi from Pennant Hills (right) makes sensory blankets which are often used to stimulate a client who is confined to a wheelchair and has dementia, like some residents at Arcare Glenhaven. rubber balls, cellophane are all good materials to use for the blankets. “I also did one with jeans pockets all over it. The only limit is imagination.” Arcare lifestyle co-ordinator Chloe Pearson explained the sensory blankets. “We find the sensory
blankets can also be used to help reduce boredom, which can lead to behaviours such as chewing on clothing or becoming agitated,” she said. “The blankets help clients to focus on a simple activity and that can help to reduce an escalation of agitated
states because they allow them to fidget with different features on the blankets. They are also warm and comfortable, which creates a sense of security and comfort.” Ms Pearson said clients with dementia enjoyed the process of engaging with the different fabrics, textures and objects which are used to make the sensory blankets. “Some of our clients with dementia are non-verbal so we have to pay close attention to their facial reactions to gauge their emotional reactions,” she said. “It is interesting to note the smiles and level of engagement when they become curious about the different objects and textures which make the blanket.” Arcare holds art and craft activities at each of its residences, such as sewing and knitting, believing it helps clients connect with activities of
their youth and gives them a creative outlet. “These are important hobbies for some of our clients because they are used to doing these activities from their earliest years,” Ms Pearson said. “Many of them also made a lot of their clothing, their children’s clothing and toys. “Our classes allow them to re-use those skills and to also use those skills to help other clients. “It often leads to conversation where they begin to reminisce about the good old days, allowing them to build strong friendships and creates a sense of belonging and community within the residence. “If people want to know more about making sensory blankets, they can look up Teapot Ministries or ask through their church to see how they can contribute.”
SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018
27
New look centre Tania Phillips A PROGRAM aimed at giving older people better health and more independence has reached a major milestone with the opening of new Wellness Centre in Ballina on August 15. The centre is the brainchild of integratedliving, a not-for-profit organisation aimed at providing vital services for older people and their carers across rural, regional and remote areas of Australia. While there are already five Wellness centres in rural and regional Australia – Ballina is the first purely purpose-built facility, according to integratedliving’s CEO Catherine Daley. Ms Daley said up until now the centres had been put into their existing facility but more purpose-built facilities were in the works. The business has come a long way since first forming in the Muswellbrook area in 1999. It now operates services from the Northern Territory and northern Queensland right through to Launceston in Tasmania. “The only places we don’t operate are metropolitan Melbourne and Brisbane,” she said, adding that integratedliving aimed to help people outside the major cities to improve
their health and have access to the latest facilities. She said it was now Asia Pacific’s number one specialist health service provider and the new Ballina centre showcased just what the group could offer. Research shows that in regional, rural and remote communities, 75 per cent of people are not getting enough exercise and more than 50 per cent of people have one or more chronic illnesses. Ms Daley said the focus at integratedliving was to provide access to health and well-being services to older Australians in these areas and creating the Wellness Centre in Ballina would help to achieve that. The Wellness Centre at Ballina features a state-of-the-art Wellness Gym and a range of services to help older people live an active and independent life and improve their situation, on both health and social levels. The services include exercise and yoga classes, massage therapy, occupational therapy services, allied health treatments, assistive product displays and the ‘Staying Healthy Eating Well’ meals service. They have Australia’s first set of Moto-Tiles, where users can tap their toes on the flashing tiles to test and improve their co-ordination and balance.
‘‘
integratedliving is now Asia Pacific’s number one specialist health service provider and the new Ballina centre showcased just what the group could offer.
GREAT HEALTH FACILITIES: Seniors will be using in the new Ballina Wellness Centre. The gym features specialist HUR equipment from Finland. The equipment is
designed to help older people stay active while also supporting people who require
exercise as part of rehabilitation. ■ The new Wellness Centre is at Ballina West
Photo: tuukkakiviranta.com
Shopping Centre (opposite the Big Prawn), corner of Quays Drive and River Street, Ballina.
Miles Franklin Book Giveaway! In honour of the Miles Franklin Literary Awards, we have 5 Book Prize Packs to Give away! Perpetual is the trustee of the award, Copyright Agency is a proud supporter of the award and readers can find out more information via milesfranklin.com.au
The prize packs will consist of the following novels: No More Boats by Felicity Castagna The Life To Come by Michelle de Kretser The Last Garden by Eva Hornung Storyland by Catherine McKinnon Border Districts by Gerald Murnane Taboo by Kim Scott to be in the draw enter 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 06/08/18-31/08/18. Competition drawn 11am 03/09/18 at Cnr Mayne Rd and Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006. Winners announced in Seniors October Editions 2018. Total prize value $879.30 (including GST). Entry is open to all permanent residents of Queensland, residing in the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Wide Bay 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
6848374ab
Health group integratedliving has opened a purpose-built well-being centre especially for the benefit of older adults
Wellbeing
28
WELLBEING
AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS
Seniors tick off ‘bucket list’ virtually EVER wanted to walk through the tall forest of North America or soar through the clouds as you take the plunge skydiving – but never leave the comfort of your own couch? The dream may be closer than you think! Samsung Electronics Australia and Uniting have teamed up to provide the aged care provider’s residents the chance to “tick off” their bucket lists using virtual reality. “What I’ve seen today is our residents really come to life as they’ve shared the experience of what they had,” Uniting executive director Tracey Burton said. “And we’ve also had life-long dreams of seeing the redwood forest in Canada and Vancouver.
“It’s just been a wonderful experience.” Visiting five facilities in New South Wales and the ACT, the pilot program is hoping the immersive technology can stimulate positive well-being, reduce isolation and support social integration as current studies continue to research the effects of virtual reality technology on people living with dementia and pain management. Uniting War Memorial Hospital Associate Professor Nick Brennan said the technology could allow seniors to take a trip away from the everyday. “Studies suggest that virtual reality can have a therapeutic effect and stimulate the brain,” he said. “Providing new
adventures for these patients can help to reduce stress and boredom and creates new ways for them to interact with their peers.” Samsung’s Martin Brown said the opportunity to work with Uniting and its resident was a chance the company didn’t want miss. “We strive to develop technology that can make a difference in the lives of Australians,” he said. “We aim to support and facilitate their efforts by finding new ways to deliver their services, like improved healthcare offerings. We’re looking forward to undertaking this pilot with Uniting and taking their residents to places they’ve only ever dreamed about.”
Boosting your immune system THE downside to ageing is our immune system tends to struggle with winter ills such as respiratory tract infections. Just having an annual flu injection isn’t enough. It’s a misconception that this jab will cover you for all respiratory illnesses, Gold Coast holistic GP specialist Dr Cris Beer says. So, it’s important to look after your whole immune system all the time. You can start by
using Blackmore’s online two-minute Immune Health Check at immunehealth check.com.au to test your immune health. Then you can boost your immune system using the following six tips from Dr Beer. Nutrition Fuel your body with a healthy dose of fresh fruits, vegetables, wholegrains and fibre-rich foods to provide your body with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy in winter.
FROM PAGE 21 Exhibits being lodged between 2-5pm, with judging at 6pm on September 28. Don’t forget novice and senior flower arrangements class for the garden show and our regular meetings. Remember anyone can exhibit for free not just members. Visit twintowns gardenclub.com.
Hydration Water, water, water: Drink at least eight cups a day to help flush away unwanted toxins. Sleep Restorative, good quality sleep is vital for winter wellness, as it’s when your body has the chance to rest and repair. Exercise A healthy and strong body can work wonders for supporting your immune system so get moving with regular, moderate exercise.
LISMORE CITY HALL
YOTHU Yindi and The Treaty Project was initially launched in 2017, to celebrate the release of the 25th anniversary remix pack of Yothu Yindi’s Treaty and raise awareness for the need for treaty with Australia’s First Nations people. Yothu Yindi and the Treaty Project Presented by Lismore City Hall and Agency 123 on Saturday, September 15 at 7.30pm. All tickets $65. Please note there is a $3.30 booking fee per transaction (not per ticket) for all ticket purchases. For more, go to norpa.org.au or phone 1300 066 772.
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.
6544375aa
(07) 5506 6777
KYOGLE QUOTA CLUB
Dr Emanuel Svoboda
Servicing the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers 6 Scott Street, Coolangatta Qld 4225 Dr Meon Lamont
NEW EXPERIENCES Virtual reality technology can take you to a place you’ve only dreamed of.
ON JULY 30, approximately 70 guests attended our “Friendship Dinner” at the Kyogle Bowling Club. Quotarians
Members of U3A Twin Towns, Author and Educator Jim Parsons and public speaker and tutor Dennis Wallis were busy organising a free barbecue, sponsored by COTA. For details, phone (07) 5534 7333 or email u3a1office@gmail.com. from Alstonville/Wollongbar and Casino Clubs attended, as well as Councillor Hayden Doolan representing Kyogle Council. A cheque for $1000 was presented to the Kyogle High School for the “Love Bites Program”, which the Kyogle Quota Club has sponsored for several years. The “Love Bites Program” is an extremely successful School based, domestic, family violence and sexual assault presentation, which is aimed at 14-16-year-old students. We are very proud to once again give our support for the program. We also presented a cheque of $200 to our guest speakers: Tom Masters,
Isobel Slater and Nick Taylor (Kyogle High School students) who gave a presentation on their trip to NASA in Houston USA in January 2018. Also on our agenda was the announcement of the Lady of the Year. The winner for 2018 was Jenny Hastie, volunteering endless hours helping the elderly people in our community. The raffle prizes of a Chiming Wooden Table Clock, donated by John Adams, for first prize and a winter food hamper as second prize were very popular. We would like to thank the community for your loyal support by purchasing our raffle tickets and for attending our Friendship Dinner.
SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018
29
Shop around for better Super deals Tony Kaye THE Productivity Commission and the banking Royal Commission have both focused on the distinct lack of transparency in many areas of the financial industry. The $1.2 trillion managed funds sector, where so many retirees have their funds invested, often on the recommendation of their financial adviser, is one of those areas where transparency is distinctly lacking in terms of fees disclosure. If you don’t know what you are paying in fees, if you have your capital invested in a managed fund, it’s definitely time to find out. Research conducted by
InvestSMART using data from investment research group Morningstar shows that, at May 2018, out of about 5300 Australian managed funds that have a 10-year investment history, 76 per cent had underperformed their industry standard benchmark by an average of 1.75 per cent per annum. What’s staggering is that there is currently about $330 billion of investors’ capital sitting in these under-performing funds alone, which are charging average fees of 1.73 per cent per annum. While average management fees on some investment products have been falling in recent times, many investors in managed funds are often paying higher fees than those in other funds largely providing the same investment exposures. What’s worse is that the highest management fees
being charged are by the actively managed investment funds whose primary mandate is to outperform against their market benchmark. In most cases, they haven’t. Fees can be controlled The most important dimension to the managed funds fees issue is investor apathy. Many Australian investors are paying the ultimate financial price by choosing to keep their capital in under-performing managed funds instead of shopping around for better alternatives. While it’s impossible to predict the future performance of a particular fund, what most investors are ignoring is that the amount of fees they are paying paid can be controlled by switching into funds that, by virtue of charging lower management fees, will outperform their competitors.
Some will outperform their set benchmarks in different years, but over longer periods they probably won’t. But the key is to choose funds that offer the same or similar investment exposure, such as to Australian large cap or mid cap stocks, or to global markets, and that charge lower management fees. Comparing funds The easiest way for investors to compare between different funds covering the same investment category is by matching one or more funds to the market benchmark they are measuring their performance against. InvestSMART has just released an industry-first tool, Compare Your Fund (investsmart.com.au/ compare-your-fund), which allows investors to compare the fees and performance of nearly 9000 Australian
investment funds online. The free-to-access tool can analyse the performance of managed funds, super funds and pension funds against peers and industry standard benchmarks, and also allows investors to assess fund fees against comparable funds. InvestSMART’s funds research is telling. It shows that 96 per cent of managed funds in the multi-sector moderate category have underperformed the benchmark Morningstar Aus Msec Moderate Total Return AUD comparison index over the last 10 years by an average of 1.54 per cent per annum, and are charging average annual fees of 1.58 per cent. Similarly, 92 per cent of funds in the multi-sector growth category have underperformed the Morningstar Aus Msec Growth Total Return AUD
Money
comparison index over 10 years by an average of 1.62 per cent, and are charging average fees of 1.69 per cent. The story doesn’t change across other fund categories, except that the total percentage of under-performing funds does reduce. It’s evident to most investors that the amount of fees paid will have a direct impact on returns over time. Yet this becomes even more stark when an investment is left in an under-performing fund over a long time. The key message for investors is not to stay in under-performing managed funds. They are costing you better returns. Look around and shop around. Tony Kaye is the editor of Eureka Report, which is owned by listed financial services company InvestSMART. Go to investsmart.com.au.
Keep up to date with bequest limitations and challenges WILLS and estate planning lawyer Dylan Heffernan, of law firm McCabes, works through what are some of the limitations with giving bequests. Charity limitations Conditional bequests to charities are possible, but there are practical limitations. “If a client was looking to give an amount to a charity but wanted that amount to applied to particular project, we would generally recommend specify that as a wish,” Mr Heffernan
said. “You might say, for example, ‘I give $… to RSPCA Australia and I express a sincere wish that this amount is applied to finding homes for dogs that are rescued from puppy farms’.” When you die and that project no longer exists, the bequest can still go to the specified charity and it will apply the funds as it sees fit. Once the bequest is received, there are no obligations for the charity to carry out any actions for the donor’s estate.
Most of them will however issue a receipt or letter of thanks to the donor estate. Other organisations You can also give your assets to a non-charitable, private organisation as the people who will benefit from the bequest will be the shareholders. Challenges to gifts Family members may be able to challenge a testator’s bequest decision if it can be proven that the testator didn’t approve the contents of their will.
Leave the legacy of a cancer-free future for children Consider leaving a gift in your will to The Kids’ Cancer Project, a charity dedicated to funding childhood cancer research. Visit thekidscancerproject.org.au/giftinwill to learn more or phone Veena Singh in confidence on 02 8394 7715. Complete the form to learn how your will can help the littlest cancer patients. Post to (no stamp required): The Kids’ Cancer Project REPLY PAID 6400 ALEXANDRIA NSW 2015
Title:
Name:
Address: State:
Send me more information
Telephone:
Request a call from Veena
Email:
thekidscancerproject.org.au/giftinwill
Postcode:
Another area of challenge may be where a testator leaves all or a large part of his or her estate to a charity and doesn’t leave anything in their will for persons that they have duty to provide for under the will. If you give a bequest to “natural person” who has died before your estate is settled, the gift will fail. The exception is in NSW where the intended beneficiary is a direct descendent of the deceased and leaves surviving children. In that case the children of the
intended beneficiary will share the gift. Executors discretion It may be that at the time of your death the charity you have nominated no longer exists or at the time you are drawing up your will you can’t decide which charity you want to support. “If a client wishes to make a bequest to a particular charity under their will, we would generally recommend that they also give their executors direction to give the amount to some
other charity that has a similar purpose in circumstances where the intended charity no longer exists or for some other reason it is not possible to pay out the gift,” Mr Heffernan said. Keep your will up to date As over time your decision of who should receive a bequest can change you should review your estate planning every three to four years if you are still working, whenever a significant life occurrence happens and if retired, every two or less years.
30
CLASSIFIED
AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS
To advertise, call 1300 136 181 or visit finda.com.au Buy & Sell
Motoring
Clothing, Shoes & Accessories
Cars
New Stock Arriving Daily • ARIAT Boots • Cinch Jeans •Twisted X Boots and Shoes • Gidgee Eyes • R M Williams • Wrangler • Levis •Thomas Cook • Roper • Montana Jewellery
BEWARE OF SCAMS
Buyers and sellers should be cautious of possible scams when buying or selling a vehicle.
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.
More information is available at scamwatch.gov.au
Motoring Caravans & Motor Homes
CARAVANS WANTED All caravans wanted We come to you All areas, Cash today!
Phone 3812 3553
Clearing Out Collectables? Visit www.finda.com.au
Tip
6546920aa
82 Walker St Casino Ph 6662 2131
6764967ae
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.
SURF LAKE CITY: Surfer Lincoln Chant considers the new Yeppoon destination.
Silver surfer makes waves on the lake
Gail Forrer
Don’t Do the Limbo! You shouldn’t set the bar too low! Ask for a low price and you may have every man and his dog looking for a bargain.
This tip brought to you by www.finda.com.au
ON THE horizon is a whole new way of surfing for silver surfers with a prototype Surf Lake in the final phase of construction in the Queensland town of Yeppoon. Imagine 2400 machine-made waves being generated per hour across four reefs, each with a left and right hand breaking wave – that’s eight breaks. The maximum wave height is aimed at a 2.4m face height. Each wave will vary in shape, size, length and difficulty. So, surfers can start off on the easy wave, and then make their way around to the more powerful hollow barrels. Sounds interesting? Sixty-year-old Queensland surfer Lincoln Chant reckons it’s a great idea. Since he turned 16-years old he’s been carving it out on Gold Coast waves. These days, he’s still working full-time, lives on the Coast and calls himself a fortnightly weekend surfer (and a bit more on annual holidays), but plans to increase surfing time in his upcoming retirement. “When I’m retired, my wife and I’d like to do the
Grey Nomad thing, having a wave-making machine at Yeppoon, would probably see us include this experience in our travels.” His quiver of seven boards including his 1978, single fin, are used to ride a variety of waves and he thinks the surf lake might give him a chance to use them all. His wife Fay, a stand-up paddler, thinks the beginner waves may provide her with a perfect learning environment “I would love to learn to surf,” she said. “But at 56 years old, I’m not looking to pummelled in any barrels.” The idea behind the Surf Lake is to give everyone who wants to surf, learn to surf or for some silver surfers, get back into their surfing, no matter what their skills, age, ability or surf craft to chance to get out there. “The Surf Lakes mantra is ‘everyone gets a break’. Longboards, short boards, body boards, body surfers; you name it, there will be a break to suit them,” Surf Lakes media director Wayne Dart said. “The nature of each break is such that a surfer can quite quickly improve and take on another of the more challenging breaks. “Or, those who feel challenged in the ocean due to physical fitness or
the like, will be able to surf in a controlled environment and in turn regain fitness and balance and therefore tackle waves that they may have ridden in younger years. But, in the lake, the ‘built-in’ rips make the return to the line-up easier, and there will be regulated marshalling so that every person has access to their desired wave.” The health benefits of surfing are well known and include cardiovascular fitness – from paddling, shoulder and back strength – these muscles will strengthen from the paddling, leg and core strength – once you’re standing up on the board, strong legs and a strong core will keep you up. But as every surfer will know, beside the physical benefits, it’s all about the ‘stock’, and if it comes from a wave-making machine then, according to Fay and Lincoln Chant, “so be it”. ■ The Yeppoon site will initially be used for demonstration to potential licence holders and for further research and development. It will be some time before it can be opened to the public. For investors, of which Surf Lakes are looking for a few, they will get to test out the Australian invention.
SENIORS \\AUGUST, 2018
PUZZLES 20/8
The challenge is to rearrange a crossword which has been broken into 25 sections. One letter has been given to get you started. Work out which s uare ts in with that letter and write in the letters. ou can also shade the black s uares i you nd it hel ul. ter co leting the rst area work out which s uare oins on to it and continue until you have ade a co lete crossword.
O L W L L
T L A P E P E
I
R A U S E
R E N T T A
E N T
S
T M R O E N T
P V I E T H R
T V I D C A
L O O S T L
R S T C
L E S U U N A M
C L L A L
Fill the grid so every column, every row and 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.
7 LETTERS ENDURED GUTLESS INHABIT INHALED LADLING THYROID
QUIZ 1. What Australian pop duo consisted of Darren Hayes and Daniel Jones? 2. What are the two main ingredients of the appetiser angels on horseback? 3. Where are you if you “wake up in a city that never sleeps”? 4. In which year were East and West Germany unified? 5. What everyday item is sand used to make? 6. Which two fruits are anagrams of each other? 7. Which famous brothers made a film called A Night at the Opera? 8. Who was the Greek god of death and the underworld?
QUIZ
C A D E T S
4 LETTERS AIRY ALAS DATE DINS EMIR FIJI JEST LOON ORBS OSLO
5 LETTERS ABHOR ANGUS ASIDE BOLAS EGEST EGRET ENEMA ESSAY ORGAN OSCAR SHUSH SIREN SOAPS SOLID STORM TALON
6 LETTERS CADETS FIRMLY HOLLOW LOUISE RABIES SALAMI SPECIE THRESH
S O A P S
Solution opposite
ROAN SAGA SOYA TROT WERE YOGI
O R B S
Fit the words into the grid to create a nished crossword
3 LETTERS ALE ALL ASH BAD BAR BET COO END IRE OUR RUM URN
L A S O L A S O L L OW N A L E E M I R A S I D E S S H A L E D Y O G I S U R N A B I E S G E S T A T E
WORDFIT
E X H P I S T L A P E E P H A P
Good 19 Very Good 26 Excellent 31+
S T M I R A C L E R O U L M E N T S E A L L H T R L L E V I D E N T I R C A T A S S R L U P R I S T I N E M E I C R N P V I O L E N T K I E W T H R I L L E D O O T E O M C W M L E S H U D D E R
HW
VOILE PUSH IN CINQUES SPONGIER RACIALIST
A U L E G L I D L E U N A C H A L L O S T
572
S E
How many words of four letters or more can you make? Each letter must be used only once and all words must contain the centre letter. There is at least one nine-letter word. No words starting with a capital are allowed, no plurals ending in s unless the word is also a verb, e.g. he burns with anger.
S U R C O K R E A T H W R E
Solve the anagrams. Each solution is a one-word anagram of the letters beside it, and the ve solutions are sequential. For example, if the ve-letter solution starts with J, the six-letter solution starts with K, and so on.
WORD GO ROUND
TODAY
A
19
awes east eats hash hast haste hate hates hath hawse heat heath heats saith sate seat seta sheath swat swathe sweat taws tawse thaw thaws waist wait waits wash wast waste weta what wheat WHITEWASH
T W
18
17
E
T
H I
16
22
ALPHAGRAMS
WORD GO ROUND
15
A B H L O A R D L E I N N D G U R E D
I
14
I J I R E N E S H T A B O R O I G U T A R E N A N C I E O R M O Y A
K
13
F I R M L Y
C O R
12
S H U S H
A U S L E G M
11
21
Can you complete these four words, using the same three-letter sequence in each?
SUDOKU
10
T R O T
O M E
9
20
TRIO
E D
8
WORDFIT
I
C H A K L
7
1. Savage Garden, 2. Oysters and bacon, 3. New York, 4. 1990, 5. Glass, 6. Lemon and melon, 7. The Marx Brothers, 8. Hades.
I
T E E X H C W P H U D I S
6
QUICK CROSSWORD
L I L D
E A T H W R E
5
Across: 1. Brandish 7. Beast 8. Millennia 9. Eye 10. Sigh 11. Stalls 13. Proclamations 15. Bowing 16. Star 18. Nil 20. Odourless 21. Named 22. Ask about. Down: 1. Bombs 2. Allegro 3. Deep 4. Sanctimonious 5. Cares 6. Streams 7. Ballots 12. Plywood 13. Pennant 14. On the go 15. Blame 17. Reset 19. Area.
L I N E R N
H E R
4
JIGGERED
S U R
L L I
3
TRIO: NTE
P R E I
O M D E R
Down 1. Fails badly (5) 2. Brisk speed (music) (7) 3. Profound (4) 4. Excessively pious (13) 5. Shows concern (5) 6. Flows (7) 7. Votes (7) 12. Layered board (7) 13. Tapering ag (7) 14. Keeping active (2,3,2) 15. Liability (5) 17. Readjust (5) 19. Locality (4)
2
SUDOKU
H A P
Across 1. Wave something, as a threat (8) 7. Animal (5) 8. Thousands of years (9) 9. Watch (3) 10. Audible exhale (4) 11. Plays for time (6) 13. O cial announcements (13) 15. Bending (6) 16. Outstanding performer (4) 18. None (3) 20. Having no scent (9) 21. Titled (5) 22. Enquire (3,5)
1
ALPHAGRAMS
S
QUICK CROSSWORD
OLIVE, PUNISH, QUINCES, REPOSING, SATIRICAL.
JIGGERED
31
32
NORTHERN NSW
AUGUST, 2018// SENIORS
Regional Australia’s first purpose-built Wellness Centre for seniors is
NOW OPEN IN BALLIN BALLINA
At integratedliving’s Wellness Centre you can socialise, exercise or just relax thanks to a range of services including;
State-of-the-art Wellness Gym Chair Yoga Remedial Massage Occupational Therapy Meals Wellness for Independence® programs Visit us at Ballina West Shopping Centre, Cnr Quays Dr and River St, Ballina Ba and find new ways to Live, Feel and Be Well
Phone 1300 782 896 or visit integratedliving.org.au Ballinawellnesscentre@integratedliving.org.au