Northern NSW, October 2018 by seniors

October, 2018

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WELCOME

OCTOBER, 2018// SENIORS

Smile, you’re recognised Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor

21 Wellbeing

Music preview INDEX 3 Mike Carlton – A candid memoir 4 Cover Story: The Matriarchs 10 Community Group Guide 12 Talk ‘n’ Thoughts 13 Wanderlust 21 Wellbeing 23 Living 25 What’s On 26 Money 30 Music and Book reviews 31 Puzzles

IN ONE way or another a good deal of the stories published in Seniors newspaper, ask us to rethink our ideas on ageing. It might be our sporting profiles, stories on business ventures, life-long education or the type of accommodation we choose to live in. This month, our cover story makes it evident that other demographics are also reviewing their ideas on ageing. That is, they are recognising the view of older age as a slow, quiet and perhaps sad journey into mental and physical decline, is simply a stereotype. The article shows an acknowledgement of our differences, recognition of our strengths and weaknesses and importantly, that contemporary ageing demands a new story. In our feature story, it is great to see the older woman upfront and visible. Breaking away from stereotypes also enables us to have a more authentic view of society, which hopefully enables a fairer treatment for all. In this month’s Talk ‘n’ Thoughs section, we are

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 Tracy O’Connor – 0438 478 204 tracy.oconnor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au

pleased to note the move towards a more equitable superannuation scheme in terms of women’s work contributions. Something, that up to this point is sadly lacking. We also have an interesting review of former journalist Mike Carlton’s memoir. In his book we can see how political opinions, personalities and conflict shaped the society we grew up in and in turn shaped us. At 72 years old, Carlton is certainly breaking down age stereotypes. Finally, don’t miss Robyn Nixon’s tips on travelling with your grandchildren. As an avid and professional traveller Robyn shares some practical tips. As always, we have provided you with the latest well-being, living, travel and financial advice. I trust you enjoy the read.

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

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SENIORS \\OCTOBER, 2018

NEWS

A very candid memoir Former Journalist Mike Carlton shares good, bad and ugly

Ann Rickard MIKE Carlton might have a reputation for being outspoken, opinionated and controversial, but when we telephoned him for this interview, we found him in his kitchen prepping for dinner before going out on the school run to pick up his nine-year-old son. At 72, the Sydney broadcaster, journalist, commentator, columnist, television and current affairs reporter has more than 50 years experience in the cut-throat media industry, but now he’s a mellow fellow, relishing his role as house-husband while his wife, Morag (28 years younger than him) works long hours as a producer of ABC’s Four Corners program. “I did not believe it was possible when I heard our son was about to be born,” he said. “I was shocked, thought it would interrupt my serene retirement, but it

has been an absolute joy to have him. He keeps me young. I must keep up with life for him, keep up with the world for him. It is an incredible pleasure.” Mike Carlton has just released his memoir, On Air, a mighty 550-page tome recording his life – all the good, bad and the ugly – and while he set out to write his personal story, he has written a record of modern Australian history that every baby boomer will relate to. “I did not consciously write it as (a record of our modern history),” he said. “But I didn’t want it to be just about me. I wanted it set in the context of the times.” Those times Mike refers to begin in the 1950s, when, as a suburban school boy in Sydney, he lived with his widowed mother, younger brother and bigoted grandmother. Every penny counted in their household. Mike recalls a time of great financial difficulty as a boy

NOT HOLDING BACK: Mike Carlton, 72, is a broadcaster, journalist, commentator, columnist, television and current affairs reporter. INSET: Mike’s new book, On Air. Photo: Carol Gibbons after his father died when Mike was just five and his mother struggled to keep the roof over their heads. However, it was also happy time, an enlightening time of modest ambitions and boyhood and teenage rites of passage.

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Unable to afford a university education he left school at 16 and gained a journalism cadetship with the ABC, a journey that began humbly but eventually propelled him to the very top. “I would like to think my book speaks to baby

boomers,” he said. “Things were a lot simpler then in terms of everything from schooling to education. Now I look at my nine-year-old son, at the range of social media available to him, it’s quite scary.” In insightful and often hilarious prose, Mike has dredged his memory to talk of school days in Australia in the ’50s, when education taught him little of the world and virtually nothing of real life. It wasn’t until he wandered into journalism that he started to learn about the outside world, especially on assignment as a foreign correspondent in Vietnam in the ’60s. “The Vietnam horror. I talk a lot about it in the book. I had had a sheltered life in Sydney and going out into that was an eye-opener.” One horrific account in the book tells of Mike

driving into a village just over the border of Vietnam into Cambodia looking for stories with different angles. He and his cameraman came across a burnt and raised village where hundreds of bodies, including many children, had been stuffed into a well. The impact on him was profound. After stints as a foreign correspondent in Indonesia and Singapore, he returned to Australia, still a young man, but with eyes wide open to the shortcomings of almost all our world leaders of the time. Mike has two adult children and a 12-year-old grandson to his first wife Kerri, as well as his nine-year old son with his wife Morag. Now he has finished writing his memoir, he spends his days looking after the family household in Sydney’s Pittwater, supporting his wife in her career, managing to fit in a swim and surf as often as he can as he believes “regular immersion in salt water is essential to life”.

COVER STORY

OCTOBER, 2018// SENIORS

THE MATRIARCHS: Krissy Stanley, 68, Carefree campaign for 2018.

Griz Pomirska, 67.

The Matriarchs: sassy,

Tracey Johnstone INSTEAD of a corporate brand telling the younger generation what to expect of the future, it has turned to the people who have been there and done that. A young creative team in their 20s and 30s in the Sydney office of advertising agency DDB Sydney has developed a marketing campaign for Carefree’s female hygiene products with its essence

being matriarchal trust. Four women – Krissy Stanley, 68, Griz Pomirska, 67, Yvonne Tozzi, 60, and Gayle Foster-Brown, 69 – talk in the advertisement about what they remember of their teenage to pre-menopause years while reviewing the current crop of Carefree products. It’s cheeky, bright and brutally honest. Silver Creek’s retail marketing executive

Stuart Cumming said this Carefree advertisement is ground breaking with its use of women more than double the age of the target market having an authentic conversation with those younger generations. “It comes down to people believing they are listening to something authentic, that then builds the trust,” Mr Cumming said. “The Carefree ad was all about authentic

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storytelling. Marketing has certainly been heading in that direction in the last five years at least. “It makes sense to have someone with experience talking as that feeds into the authenticity.” DDB Sydney executive creative director Tara Ford said the creative team came up with the idea without her input. “I am absolutely delighted when I see work

like that because I am so conscious of women of a certain age absolutely disappearing from media landscapes or playing a kind of passive role in things,” Ms Ford said. “I know so many hilarious older people who are so sassy, so smart and have wisdom, so why don’t we show that for a change?” Carefree’s approach to their product range, Ms Ford said, is unapologetically feminine.

She argues it’s that approach that lends itself well to honest and open discussion. And who better to have that kind of women’s issues discussion than older women, Ms Ford said. “The older you get, the more you can say and do whatever you like, and you don’t really worry so much about what people think, how you are going to look,” Ms Ford, who is in her late 40s, adds.

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SENIORS \\OCTOBER, 2018

COVER STORY

Yvonne Tozzi, 60.

Gayle Foster-Brown, 69.

smart and authentic

The creative team recognise a lot of older superstars are popping up on Instagram and the younger generations are relating to them. They are seen as being themselves, having fun and, at times, being outrageous. “They tapped into that quite a lot,” Ms Ford said. The women, coined The Matriarchs, were drawn out of a casting call. They were presented with a handful of

questions with their answers to become part of the advertisement. None of their responses were scripted so they were highly candid. The Matriarchs projected confidence, self-worth and unashamed enjoyment at being where they were with a lot of life knowledge. “We never really discussed it. We never talked about a period, we never talked about sex,

‘‘

The Matriarchs projected confidence, self-worth and unashamed enjoyment at being where they are in life we never talked about depression,” Yvonne says in the video. But times have changed, a lot. “Did you have seepage? Did you have

leakage? We all talk about it now. But when I was a kid, you didn’t talk about it,” Krissy adds. The online campaign has been very successful for Carefree.

Ms Ford said the feedback from younger women has been “really good”. “Bringing back the crone wisdom archetype that women have been missing” and “Love it! No topic should be off limits in these modern times, glad people can laugh and be open about it all” have been some of the social media responses to the campaign. Will we see more involvement of older

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Australians in the endorsement of products? Mr Cumming said it’s really about the right person connecting with the target market. “It’s not a matter of rolling out a whole lot of old people to be advocates, it’s a matter of does it make sense,” Mr Cumming said. “If the answer is yes, then that’s great. But, it’s not going to happen with every product.”

CREATIVE

OCTOBER, 2018// SENIORS

Reflecting the beauty of nature

Artist’s organic connection with our landscape

ARTIST Caz McDougall’s life-long love of art and the environment will come together when she presents her first solo exhibition, Earth, in November. Several years in the making, Earth – self-funded by the 72-year-old Tweed Coast pensioner – will run from November 5-19 at the Kirra Cultural and Community Centre. “I started drawing when I was four and I started painting in oils when I was probably 19,” she said. “I’ve done art all my life and as an artist I used various mediums but my chosen medium was stone. I was a stone carver, I studied under Mitzy McCall at the Sculpture Centre in Sydney and I moved onto marble, got very sick with a disease and couldn’t do sculpture any more. So I started to work in paint. “Basically I have to do art, it’s my passion. “I breathe art, it’s my

barometer to being happy.” Nature has also always been a passion for Ms McDougall, so it’s not surprising that she would choose to draw and paint trees for this exhibition,

‘‘

Landscape is my thing, whether it’s fantasy landscape, whether it’s abstract... — Caz McDougall

which will include 12 works – including a huge drawing of an ancient four-storey-high tree on her son’s property at Tyalgum. “I grew up at Bondi until I was eight and then we

moved to Nelsons Point and that’s where I learned to love trees,” she said. “Trees have always been a special place for me. The moreton bays in Bradley Cove – I used to take dirt bottles up with me and if any of the boys tried to climb up I was equipped. No one was going to have a go at me in a tree. “I have done a lot of trees in my life, I’ve never had an exhibition where I actually concentrated on the ancient trees and forests but I’ve done a lot of landscapes. “Landscape is my thing, whether it’s fantasy landscape, whether it’s abstract, I’ve done a lot of abstracts for Spinifex Dreaming based on my Dune Care experiences. “But trees have been a constant.” The show’s launch is on November 15, 7–10pm NSW time. You can read the full story at www. seniorsnews.com.au.

A NATURAL ARTIST: Caz McDougall prepares for her first solo exhibition Earth.

Conversation with Stephanie Alexander Ms Dowell’s daughter to become a chef but its impact on the former mayor’s life didn’t stop there. Jenny Dowell OAM will head to Tweed Heads on November 8 to host “In conversation with Stephanie Alexander”. While at first glance Ms

Dowell – who was Lismore mayor for eight years and on the council for 12-anda-half years before retiring at the past election two years ago – might be an odd choice to host the event in Tweed, it is almost like she’s been preparing for it for a long time.

“In 1976 she opened her restaurant in Melbourne, Stephanie’s, and I use to go there,” the former councillor explained. “While I was mayor I opened the kitchen garden at the Tuntable Falls school made possible through the

Stephanie Alexander Foundation.” ● The event is on Thursday, November 8, at 10am, Tweed Heads Civic and Cultural Centre. Bookings essential on (07) 5569 3150. See the full story at www. seniorsnews.com.au.

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The new book, The Cook’s Companion.

WHEN former Lismore mayor Jenny Dowell bought her then-teenage daughter a copy of Stephanie Alexander’s definitive book The Cook’s Companion, little did she know it would have life-long impacts. First published in 1996, the book helped inspire

SENIORS \\OCTOBER, 2018

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OCTOBER, 2018// SENIORS

Getting on the program

An expert shows you how to get connected Tania Phillips

JOINING THE WORLD: Get Online Week promises joy in learning. Photos: Contributed

A MOVE from Southern Sydney to the quieter Ballina Shire doesn’t mean computer expert Stedroy Farrell is putting his feet up. After decades working for banks and other organisations in all sorts of roles around the world, Mr Farrell is putting his knowledge to good use. The British-born expert is now passing on his knowledge – not to the youngsters of the area but to its older residents. “I started last year when I moved up to the Northern Rivers from Sydney – volunteering to help people learn to use the internet and computers etc,” he said. “I grew up in England, where I lived the first 55 years of my life. I had a successful career as a software engineer before

Stedroy Farrell teaches technology to seniors.

moving to Australia, where I met my wife.” Mr Farrell has been volunteering with Ballina Shire Community Facilities for the past 18 months. “I teach people not to be afraid of technology and the benefits of using new technology,” he said. “I show them what is possible – it’s like being at the train station and assisting people with which train they need and then holding their hand to accompany them to their seat and once the train leaves the station, I am on the platform helping

the next person.” As well as their earlier programs, Community Facilities has put on two free workshops during Australia’s Get Online Week from Monday to Wednesday, October 15–17. “This year’s Get Online Week theme is encouraging older Australians to ‘try one thing online’,” visitor services and community facilities co-ordinator Alicia Wallace said. ● Get Online Week Ballina workshop: Monday, October 15 from 9.45–11.30am. ● Get Online Week Alstonville workshop: Wednesday, October 17 from 2.15–4pm. For information phone Ballina Shire Council Community Facilities staff member on (02) 6687 6291 or email communityspaces@ ballina.nsw.gov.au.

ALL THINGS LEGAL

Lawyers Call for Probe into Nursing Home ‘Exit Fees’ By Wills and Estates solicitor, Debbie Sage

Attwood Marshall Lawyers has called for the Aged Care Royal Commission to probe the use of “unconscionable” nursing home ‘exit fees’ which exploit the elderly and rob them of their life savings after they have passed away. The firm has negotiated on behalf of dozens of elderly clients and beneficiaries to stop nursing homes from charging exorbitant ‘exit fees’, which can be as high as 40% of the initial purchase price of a home room or unit. Wills and Estates lawyer, Debbie Sage, said the financial rort is typically only detected after an elderly person has died – much to the shock of bereaved beneficiaries – and needed to be investigated under the terms of reference in the upcoming Royal Commission. “There’s no regulatory oversight of nursing home fees, or any regulation of nursing home ‘exit fees’, some of which are simply unconscionable – as high as 40% of the initial purchase price of a home or unit – and charged when a resident leaves or passes away,” Ms Sage said. “In addition to ‘exit fees’, some aged care facilities also charge ‘refurbishment fees’ to renovate or ‘modernise’ rooms or units for the next person to move in. In many instances these ‘refurbishment fees’ are grossly unfair.” A recent Attwood Marshall Lawyers negotiation led to significantly reduced costs for an elderly Gold Coast woman who wanted to move into a facility with her dog. Her ‘exit fees’, before negotiation, were in excess of $90,000.00 for one year of occupation, and $150,000.00 if she occupied her unit for two years or more. In a Northern NSW case, an aged care facility told Attwood Marshall Lawyers an exit fee of $20,000.00 was owed to refurbish a kitchen, carpets, wall paint and blinds. As the executor, Attwood Marshall Lawyers refused, with tradesmen completing the works at $8,000.00 instead. “These horror stories show that a Royal Commission into the aged care sector is clearly long overdue,” Ms Sage said. Attwood Marshall Lawyers have made a public submission into the proposed terms of reference for the Aged Care Royal Commission, calling for a review of ‘exit fees’, ‘refurbishment fees’ and ‘extra services charges’. “Elderly people are vulnerable – some have dementia or other illnesses which prevent them from making considered decisions – this can lead to exploitation of their life savings,” Ms Sage said. “Based on years of experience in the Aged Care sector, we recommend a full review of ‘exit fees’, ‘refurbishment fees’, and ‘extra services charges’, so older Australians can be assured they are given a fair deal. “Many elderly clients have signed complex nursing home contracts or leases without legal advice, and are urged to do so by some unscrupulous proprietors.

UNFAIR: The Aged Care Royal Commission should investigate exorbitant nursing home fees.

“It should be mandatory that elderly people obtain proper legal advice before signing or entering into these agreements. “It is also critical mandatory staff-to-patient ratios, publically accessible performance data, and a complaints authority or ombudsman are implemented, and that no recommended reforms are swept under the rug. “The Aged Care sector must be made accountable – we need to increase the standard of care for our older generation.” Public submissions into the proposed terms of reference for the Aged Care Royal Commission closed on September 25, 2018. If you require advice in relation to having your Will done for you, please contact our please contact our Wills and Estates Department Manager, Donna Tolley on direct line 07 5506 8241, email dtolley@attwoodmarshall.com.au or free call 1800 621 071 to book your free 30 minutes estate planning review appointment.

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SENIORS \\OCTOBER, 2018

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OCTOBER, 2018// SENIORS

Community notes

Community group guide TO ALLOW for readers’ requests for the publication of more neighbourhood news, please keep notices short and to the point (100 word maximum). If you would like to submit a photo ensure it is at least 180dpi or 500kb to 1mb in size and of faces, in a nice bright setting. Email editor@seniors newspaper.com.au. Coolangatta Tweed OUR next luncheon is on October 18 at the South Tweed Sports Club from 11am for a 11.30am start (DST). All ladies very welcome. October is poverty month and our guest speaker will be Aleisha Yackley from the Salvation Army. Ladies to bring along non perishable and tin food. We meet on the third Thursday of each month. For bookings and apologies, phone Kay on (07) 5524 4089 before Monday. October 13. Twin Towns Day OUR ladies take pleasure in inviting non-members and other VIEW Club members to their annual Portofino pre-Melbourne Cup fashion parade. Ladies can try and buy the fashions, shoes and jewellery featured in the parade on the day. On Thursday, November 1 at 10am at South Tweed Sports Club. Booking is essential. Cost of $26 includes two-course lunch, tea and coffee. Phone Freda on (07) 5524 1357 or email Linda at lostpigs4@ bigpond.com by October 25. Twin Towns Evening WE RECENTLY celebrated our 29th birthday with a Law breakers and Keepers night. Great fun while

raising funds for six disadvantaged Australian children that are supported in their long-term education. Fun photos are on our Facebook page.

TWEED VALLEY TOASTMASTERS

HELP make a difference by sharing Life’s Journey’s while meeting positive like-minded people. Meetings are held at the Cudgen Leagues Club in Kingscliff. Come for a visit on the third Wednesday of the Month, arrive between 9.30-9.45am. Meetings start at 10am and finish at noon. For further information, phone Alison on 0405 461 008. Toastmasters International Mission is: “We Empower Individuals To Become More Effective Communicators & Leaders”.

CASINO CROQUET CLUB

WE HELD a very successful Friendship Day on September 20 with players from Byron Bay, Ballina, Cherry Street, Alstonville and Lismore, joining us in a day of play and friendship. Following our “Liscious” morning Tea for which we are becoming known for, we played with most games having a representative from the various clubs. Fun “side games” kept the players challenged

HAPPY GROUP: Kirra-Tugun Probus Club (mixed) members enjoying a day out together. while not playing. Raffle was won by Joan Doust from Cherry Street while our own Beryl Koster was runner up. Several lucky door prizes were well received. We have a busy few weeks ahead of us. On October 8, some of our members will return the friendship to Alstonville’s Day. Lawrence Club is coming up for a visit on October 24. On Sunday, November 18 we are inviting everyone – young and old, male and female to come along at 11.30am and have an afternoon of fun and try out Golf Croquet. No previous experience necessary. Just bring your lunch and sense of humour. We have plenty of mallets. Afternoon tea is provided. On November 23 we are travelling to Yamba for a play by the sea, then on December 12 is our Christmas Party (venue to be finalised). We are always looking for new members to come and try out our easy to understand game. We now have one man playing with us and fellas, he

Photos: Contributed

prizes and much more. Hope to see you there, bring a friend and a coffee mug to help save the planet. For more information, phone Monika Ross on 0412 638 373 or go to wintownsgardenclub.com.

BREASTSCREEN QUEENSLAND

Casino’s Croquet Club Mick Ayshford makes a shot while Fay from Lismore, Leonie from Casino and Jane from Alstonville wait their turn. would like to have some mates. For information, phone Jean on 0416 287 769.

POTTSVILLE “FUN CROQUET” CLUB INC.

WE PLAY every Tuesday from 9-11am and Thursday from 4-6pm (daylight savings times) at Black Rocks Sports Ground. Beginners and visitors welcome. For inquiries phone 0413 335 941 or go to our Facebook page: Pottsville “Fun Croquet” Club Inc.

NUTBUSH / QIGONG EXERCISE CLASS

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THE fabulous Nutbush / Qigong Exercise Class is an exciting and fun way to improve your fitness, cardiovascular function and your spiritual well-being by harnessing chi energy via qigong majestic moves. The one-hour class also includes light weights and expert health tips. Classes are held every Thursday morning at 10.30am in the Coolangatta Uniting Church hall, corner of

Lanham and McLean Streets. After class you can enjoy a half-price coffee deal at a local cafe. Come along and bring your friends. Bookings with Peter on 0413 125 640.

TWIN TOWNS & DISTRICT GARDEN CLUB

OUR next Meeting will be on Monday, November 12. Venue will be South Tweed Sports Club, Minjungbal Drive, South Tweed in the downstairs auditorium. Our guest speaker will be Shelly Gilbert with her “Beezwax Wraps”. It’s an alternative to wrapping and sealing with plastic), great “stocking filler” for Christmas. Shyamli Long, demonstrated how to make the Japanese inspired Kokedamas at our October meeting. 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

LOCAL women urged to stay up-to-date with screening. More than 31,000 women took advantage of free breast screening at BreastScreen Queensland Gold Coast services last financial year, leading to hundreds of unsuspected breast cancers being detected. BreastScreen Queensland health promotion officer Julia Foreman hopes to see even more women screened this year, particularly those aged 50 to 74 – the age group where evidence of screening benefit is strongest. Statistics show just over half of local women in this high-risk age group attend the BreastScreen Queensland program within recommended timeframes, which for most of these women is once every two years. A screening mammogram is the most effective screening test to find early breast cancers, before they can be seen or felt, which improves the chance of successful treatment. A mobile breast screening unit is visiting the new Pimpama City Shopping Centre until October 18. BreastScreen services are also conveniently located at Helensvale, Southport and West Burleigh. Women in their 40s or 75 and older can also attend. To book, phone 132 050 or go to the website breastscreen.qld.gov.au.

SENIORS \\OCTOBER, 2018

OCTOBER, 2018// SENIORS

Talk 'n' thoughts

Gail Forrer Group Editor THE implementation of a fair and equitable superannuation system for young women of today would go far to alleviating a repeat of the problems that older woman are now suffering. Women and homelessness is a major issue facing Australia. The Mercy Report (2014) Older Women’s Pathways out of Homelessness in Australia reveals that one in four homeless people is an older woman. Besides that, there is a general acknowledgement that this statistic does not account for the women who are living in various styles of temporary and unstable accommodation. The report also notes: “The largest proportion of older women presenting with housing crisis in

Looking after day after tomorrow

Australia have led conventional lives, and rented whilst working and raising a family. Few have previously had involvement with welfare and other support systems”. The reasons that have seen older women in this position are complex but foremost among them are pay disparity, divorce, intermittent outside work due to family caring commitments and lack of education. But it is the broken work transjectory and pay disparity that affects superannuation payments and finally living circumstances. A government policy designed to bridge the gender gap in superannuation makes total social and financial sense. — Gail Forrer NATIONAL Seniors Australia says Labor’s new policy to bridge the gender

GOVERNMENT POLICIES: New initiatives are mooted to provide women with appropriate superannuation. gap in superannuation will help improve retirement incomes for women, who are most at risk of poverty and homelessness. The organisation’s chief advocate, Ian Henschke, said women retired on average with $113,000 less than men in their

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super accounts, mainly due to lower wages, the time they spent out of the workforce raising children and caring for ageing parents, and divorce. Women were particularly vulnerable to homelessness as they aged because of their precarious financial

situations. By the time they are 60, 34 per cent of single women in Australia live in poverty. According to a Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey, these women belong to the lowest income-earning group, surviving on less than $30,000 a year. Mr Henschke said Labor’s policy would introduce Superannuation Guarantee (SG) payments on the 18 weeks of Government Paid Parental Leave and phase out the $450 monthly pay threshold for eligibility for super payments. This was something National Seniors had called for in the past. Super contributions would also be paid on Dad and Partner Pay. “This policy is a key step in ensuring women have the income they need to live comfortably in retirement,” Mr Henschke

said. “It won’t solve what is a complex problem overnight, but it will begin to correct a situation that makes older women particularly vulnerable at a time of their life when they deserve better. “For a variety of reasons, including divorce and inequity in pay, many older women end up living week to week, totally reliant on their jobs to pay the rent. “It only takes a bout of sickness when they can’t work and they can end up homeless, living in their car or worse. It’s a growing issue and one that needs to be addressed. “Moves like this will also help alleviate the poverty faced by people reliant on the aged pension, which we’re trying to address through our Fix Pension Poverty campaign with the Benevolent Society of Australia.”

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SENIORS \\OCTOBER, 2018

Discover the Island and its pleasures INSIDE

Congratulations to our Winners

Bev McMahon Peter Walker Beth Milne Bernadette Reid Alison Dillon

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Congratulations to the winners of our Miles Franklin Book Giveaway

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OCTOBER, 2018// SENIORS

10 reasons to stay in Vietnam VIETNAM’S newest luxury beach-front resort is attracting Australian guests in droves. Ann Rickard checked in to The Anam in Cam Ranh to see what it was all about. These are her 10 favourite things ... 1. Luxury: Vietnam is opening to tourists at a giddy rate, yet it is still very affordable. You get a lot of bang for your buck in in this beautiful country and none more so that at the 18-month-old The Anam, Vietnam’s first five-star colonial-style beach resort. Better still, Jetstar will fly you comfortably there for small cost. Win-win. 2. Location: Away from the frantic pace of nearby Nha Trang, the resort sits on the pristine shore of Long Beach on the Cam Ranh Peninsula. A

40 minute fight from Ho Chi Minh gets you to Cam Ranh, from there a 15-minute drive to the resort. Easy. 3. Atmosphere: Mist-shrouded mountains swathed in junglegreenery form a verdant backdrop for The Anam. Add a few hundred palms swaying among the lush gardens, hand-cut green lawns as smooth as bowling greens, glittering pools and tinkling water features at every turn, and the stage is set for resort hedonism. With more than 300 sunny days each year... well... icing on the tropical cake. 4. Food, food and more: With a carefully planned variety of restaurants, the exhilarating flavours and exceptional freshness of local produce, eating is a priority. From fine dining at

AMAZING: Lush gardens and water features at The Anam.

The Colonial to fusion dining at Indochine Restaurant, to classic Vietnamese dishes at Lang Viet Restaurant & Bar overlooking the beach, the choices are myriad. Then there is afternoon tea (scones anyone?) in the Saigon Bar, and the extravagant buffet breakfast at Indochine with its Asian and Western offerings. Mix it up... try everything. 5. Mama’s Cooking: Twice a week, Mama’s Vietnamese buffet presents a limitless range of diverse specialities in the airy Lang Viet Restaurant & Bar. Adding to the overwhelming choices, mamas and aunties from nearby villages come in to bring a street-food atmosphere, cooking satays over hot coals,

making traditional pancakes, and dishing up the omnipotent noodle dishes. A contrast, an insight to street-food. A highlight. 6. Pamper and polish: You deserve coddling, and there is plenty of it at the resort’s Sri Mara Spa. “Is the room temperature and lighting to your liking?” you will be softly asked by one of the therapists as you quietly recline on the table with the fragrance of lemongrass and the sounds of trickling water in the air. “Everything is to my liking,” you’ll reply before drifting off beneath the ministrations of soft hands massaging, soothing, easing. Spa products are organic tea-inspired known for their textures and antioxidant and

regeneration properties. 7. The Saigon Bar: Between 5-6pm, the cocktails flow freely. Yes, that is free drinks for an hour, from local beers to international wines and an excellent cocktail list. Drink, eat complimentary snacks and listen to cool piano music, either on the terrace overlooking the pool or inside with its welcoming sofas and black and white photography. 8. Accommodation: You choose: terrace sea views, balcony garden views, ocean front, pool villa, three-bedroom suite. Everything is covered in the resort’s 117 villas. 9. Warm Vietnamese service: From the general manager and his team strolling the property to ensure everyone is happy, through to the cheerful

Photos: Contributed

housekeeping staff, to the calm, soft-spoken spa attendants, to the smiling gardeners, everyone makes you feel special. You are a VIP here. 10. Go touring: Shuttle buses will take you into Nha Trang if you can bring yourself to leave the open arms of The Anam. From cultural and adventure tours to the daring Nha Trang By Night tour on the back of a motor scooter, you decide. Jetstar International gets you to Vietnam for such modest cost, there is plenty left to indulge in the affordable luxury of The Anam, go to jetstar.com. The Anam welcomes with a variety of accommodation packages. For more, go to theanam.com.

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SENIORS \\OCTOBER, 2018

Skipping a generation to share travel passion

camera. I then get that made into a video for each of them to have as a memory,” Robyn added. “It really opens their eyes to the world – that people speak different languages, don’t have all the advantages that we have, and that countries have different history and traditions. “The trip really brings it to life for them. “It also gets them to understand their privilege. “The travel has definitely created an interest in them seeing more of the world – it’s broadened their horizons massively.”

Tracey Johnstone ROBYN Nixon is skipping a generation to focus on introducing her grandchildren to the wide world, which is helping them to develop a keen interest in what’s outside their Melbourne backyards. Her love of travel, which has been fuelled by 66-year-old’s job as general manager of the Intrepid Foundation, has led her to organising international travel experiences with three of her six grandchildren, without a parent in sight. “When my daughter had the grandchildren, they were living overseas in different places for a while, so we travelled together with the kids quite a bit,” Robyn said. “Then I decided, because we have a range of Intrepid family holidays, that one of the things I would like to do is take the kids away on their own, just with me. “I started that with my eldest grandson when he was 11 and we went to China.” Robyn enjoyed the shared travel experience as she watched grandson Josh became enthralled by the country and make new friends with the other children in the group. She also found herself with like-minded adults who wanted their children and grandchildren to have similar experiences. “We experienced The Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, quiet country villages and the energy of big cities,” Robyn added. “All the kids were super excited about the Great

SKIP GEN TRAVEL: Robyn Nixon with grandson Josh and the other members of the family adventure tour in China.

Photos: Contributed

Wall of China. They literally ran up it. “The other thing they got into, which none of them had done it before, was bargaining for things in the markets. “They were kind of blown away by that. Also, we had a hot pot meal so they got to cook their food.” Robyn came back from China determined to give the same travel opportunity to her other five grandchildren. She has since taken Isaac to Japan and plans to in February to Ben, 11, to The Galapagos and Equatorial Amazon. “When you get to spend a decent amount of time with your grandchildren

Robyn Nixon and her grandson Josh. and you see them interact with other parents and children, you build more of

a relationship because their parents aren’t there so it’s just you and them

working it out,” Robyn said The decision on where each child travels is based on each one’s personal interests. Robyn chose China for Josh as he had just done a school project on that country. Isaac chose Japan. Ben talked about going somewhere with animals. “He is a mini marine biologist,” Robyn said Each trip Robyn encourages her grandchild to write a daily tour diary along the way. She also collects mementos which Robyn then puts into a scrapbook and gives to her grandchild. “I also takes lots of photos and videos, and get them to talk to

Robyn’s tips for travel with grandkids ❚ Book somewhere you haven’t been before so you can discover something new together. This makes for the best memories. ❚ Consider booking a small group adventure where you can benefit from local tour leaders and the company of other children, parents and grandparents. ❚ Encourage kids to keep a journal or a daily video diary so they can look back on their cherished memories. ❚ Embrace all opportunities for them to get outside of their comfort zones and try new things from local food to playing popular local children’s games. ❚ Carry books, cards and activities for long travelling days, plus take extra snacks than usual. Also, pack refillable water bottles and cloth bags, to avoid single-use plastics and plastic bags overseas.

Australian Dutch Clog Barn

COFFS HARBOUR: Tom Hartsuyker is now 85 years young and still making model houses today. Photos: Scarr Photography

THE big question often asked is: “If I can’t afford to go all the way to Holland to see historic villages and wooden clogs being made, where else is best?” Well, how about beautiful Coffs Harbour on the NSW mid-north coast and visit the Clog Barn and Holiday Park just 1.5km on the north side of the town centre. You will see clog making demonstrations three times a day for free, and also visit an amazing miniature Dutch village with all sorts of beautiful

Clog making demonstrations are held three times a day for free. and perfectly constructed Dutch buildings. They are true miniature replicas of the actual buildings I have seen many times in the Netherlands and it’s a photographer’s paradise. It’s all free, complete with working Dutch

windmills and two little working trains. Take a delightful stroll around the model Dutch Village at 215 Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour. For more information go to clogbarn.com.au or phone (02) 6652 4633.

OCTOBER, 2018// SENIORS

Napier is a notch above Erle Levey FIRST impressions certainly last. When I stumbled upon Napier in the Hawke’s Bay region of New Zealand’s North Island it was like discovering the land of autumn. The grape vines in the seemingly endless vineyards were turning shades of yellow, gold, crimson and brown. The sky was clear but there was a crispness in the air. And the city was wedged between a mountain range and the ocean, reminiscent of an English seaside town. That first visit in the 1970s was by train from Gisborne, on the eastern-most point in New Zealand. I had stayed at a youth hostel overnight and caught the train the next morning. It was while on a working holiday and I remember the railway went through the golf course then followed the coastline of Poverty Bay before crossing a range that brought glimpses of the Pacific Ocean and Hawke’s Bay for much of the journey. I must have arrived in Napier mid afternoon and was immediately taken by the charm of the coastal town. The beers at the sailing club at sunset were some of the most enjoyable I can remember. The Leopard Brewery was right there. Today, half a lifetime later, I have driven down from Auckland. The early light of dawn revealed seas of fog in the valleys of the areas south of Thames – Matamata, Morrinsville, Tairu, down to Taupo. Taupo is like a snow town – Cooma or Jindabyne in Australia’s

A highlight of the Murals for Oceans project is seen in the morning light at The National Aquarium on the foreshore of Hawke’s Bay at Napier, New Zealand.

SILENT BEAUTY: Sunrise on Hawke’s Bay, Napier, New Zealand. alpine region or something out of Alaska perhaps. There’s thermal power as well as hydro electricity from the wild rivers and geo-thermal activity. Taupo is on the northern end of a Great Lake, known for its fishing. Trout. Well, there was this time in the ’70s when we tried to tickle some trout rather than catch them with a hook and line. Quietly slip your hand into the water and under the fish as it lazily swims in the clear water, then tickle its belly. That was the plan. But we could never quite pull it off. Maybe it needed the Maori touch ... or our workmates were fooling with us. On our recent journey to New Zealand the drive through the range was in showery conditions yet being in a rain shadow the outlook for Hawke’s Bay

was good. Virtually as soon as we dropped down into the valley the sun broke through and the last silvery drops of rain were illuminated against the ranges as well as the grape vines in this wine-growing region. Napier was decimated by an earthquake in 1932 so when the rebuilding took place it took on this art deco look. Now it is a highlight. A town preserved with a theme. East facing at the foot of the ranges, it is washed by the Pacific Ocean and bathed by the breezes. Little wonder that it is home to some delightful wines and seafood. The importance of the sea is celebrated in a glorious series of murals throughout the port city. Murals for Oceans was a public art project in Napier in early 2016. It has resulted in about 30 large-scale murals

A highlight of the Murals for Oceans project is seen in the morning light.

Photos: Erle Levey

highlighting the ocean’s beauty and marine environment issues. A series of thought-provoking works that can be appreciated by anyone who walks along the streets and laneways or by the wharves. By collaborating with internationally-renowned artists, the murals and community-based educational efforts focus attention on major environmental issues impacting the oceans, and promote the importance of long-term sustainability of natural resources. After all, if someone had asked where most of the oxygen we breathe comes from I would have said plants and trees, but no, it’s from the ocean. In fact, every second breath we take comes from the ocean. Reason alone to look after a precious resource. And

Mission Estate Winery at Taradale, Hawke’s Bay. never mind the plastic. A benchmark mural is at the National Aquarium on the foreshore, Cinzah Merkens’ endangered Longfin eel on the back wall glistens in the early morning light. Joggers and walkers are silhouetted against it and give it a sense of scale. Then there is the artist Phibs and his mural showing a turtle being affected by pollution. Ocean acidification and rising sea levels as well as endangered NZ seabirds are all depicted. The town is quiet, seeing how it is the middle of winter. Tourism must be of vital importance, along with timber, wine, agriculture and other horticulture such as peaches, nectarines, maybe cherries, apples and citrus. I pull up at the wharf, looking for the sailing club.

Mission Estate Winery, Taradale, Hawke’s Bay.

The brewery is long gone, swallowed up by one of the international brands. The old warehouses and wool stores are going through a revival driven by arts, crafts, professional offices and technology centres. An esplanade runs along the long curve of the bay. Foreshore reserve on the ocean side, the town on the other. Pacific gulls mix with silver gulls along the esplanade. There are vacancies in the accommodation houses, a mix of motels and guest houses, backpacker hostels as well as bed-and-breakfast places. Getting a table at one of the esplanade restaurants is easy enough on this winter’s evening, except some don’t open Monday while others might have Tuesday off.

SENIORS \\OCTOBER, 2018

mountain and seaside The entrance to Mission Estate Winery at Taradale, Hawke’s Bay.

Hawke’s Bay at Napier, New Zealand.

ATMOSPHERIC: After the rain at Linden Winery at Napier, New Zealand. I am taken by the retro charm of Hunger Monger, recommended by the people at the Linden Winery as one to put on the must-do list. It’s the same with Pacifica and Bistronomy. Both highly recommended. Indeed, Pacifica knocked over the heavyweights of the Auckland dining scene to claim the 2017 Cuisine Good Food Awards after winning best regional restaurant the two previous years. Hunger Monger is a dedicated seafood restaurant and, well, Hawke’s Bay has a strong fishing industry.

The restaurant has those chintzy plastic table cloths, plastic tomato sauce containers that look like tomatoes, HP sauce bottles, period lamps, woollen skins thrown over the chairs. The owners stake their reputation on the quality of the produce. Fraser has more than 20 years experience as a chef, mostly in Auckland and elsewhere in New Zealand as well as in Australia. Agnieska is Polish and has 20 years in hospitality in England, Scotland and New Zealand. The 1932 art deco building that houses the restaurant was formerly

Mission Estate Winery, Taradale, Hawke’s Bay.

the home of Haynes Butchery. The couple pride themselves on sourcing locally-caught fish and pairing it with local produce. As Agnieszka says, “Hawke’s Bay is horticultural heaven and we know it. “We’re swimming in wine here and the breweries have a great selection.’’ So it’s fish and chips, with a difference: Just $14. There are also prawns spaghetti, seafood bouillabaisse or clam chowder. Sashimi for raw-fish lovers and fresh salads.

Photos: Erle Levey

The lightest of batters is used on the tempura prawns and the crispy squid: $10 and $12 respectively. Steamed Coromandel greenlip mussels with Thai green curry sauce and wholemeal pita toast. And the Bouillabaise is $28. The beers include Zeelandt Brewery Jerry Rig blonde lager while the wine list features such labels as Elephant Hill Le Phant blanc, Pig’s Back albarino, Flying Sheep pinot noir, Squawking Magpie “The Gravels” syrah, Trinity Hill High Country pinot noir. A visit to Hawke’s Bay would not be complete

without seeking out New Zealand’s oldest winery. Mission Estate was established by a group of French missionaries in 1851 in Hawke’s Bay, where vines were planted to produce both sacramental and table wine. The first record of a commercial sale dates back to 1870 when a parcel of mostly dry reds was sold. In 1897 the 800-acre Mission Estate at Taradale was purchased from the Tiffen family and the Marist Brothers travelled each day from Meeanee to work the new land. Then in 1911 the 57 English plane trees were planted along the driveway that today make such a spectacular entry to the winery. Mission Estate is a museum as well as a

Mission Estate Winery, Taradale, Hawke’s Bay.

much-awarded winery and restaurant. There is so much to like about the region. And while the train doesn’t run from Gisborne any more, there are railway tracks headed south towards Hastings. That’s the way I head. Along a road fringed by giant palm trees. It gives great perspective – like driving in a Hollywood movie set. Then maybe I am. That’s what Napier’s like. ART DECO FESTIVAL Each year people visit Napier for the Hawke’s Bay Art Deco Festival. Fox furs, boaters and beads are the order of the day, the roads are reclaimed by vintage vehicles The 2019 Art Deco Weekend runs from February 13-17. For more information go to: www.hawkesbaynz.com

OCTOBER, 2018// SENIORS

Survival tips for outback ‘‘

Simple skills for caravanning, camping and off-roading WE ALL love to get away. To escape our day jobs in the city and get in touch with the splendour of the Aussie outback, we go camping with the family. It’s cost-effective, good for the soul and it gets the kids off their damned screens. Caravaning, off-roading and camping are great ways to entertain the whole fam: Dad, mum, the kids and the dog alike. We live in an amazing country, full of sights and sounds that people from all over the world travel to witness – and we’re lucky enough to have it all right here in our own backyard. But what would you do if the car broke down, got bogged or ran out of fuel? There are plenty of spots outside of the tourist sectors without mobile reception, the threat of being stranded for longer than your supplies will last is extremely real. So if, or perhaps when this happens, it’ll be up to you to keep calm and keep everyone alive. Here’s what to do if you’re stranded in the outback: Stay with your vehicle: Having one of your crew head a few hundred metres away to find a bit of tucker during the day is totally fine. But when search and rescue rock up, you better believe they’ll be looking for a car. They’re easier to spot than people are and will offer an extra level of comfort for the little ones during the night. Hydrate like it’s your job: Australia is bloody hot at the best of times. Now consider how hot it can get out bush. The kids, especially, will need periodic hydrating on the hour (supplies permitting). Avoid more frequent small sips, opting for less regular more hearty gulps to ensure there’s enough H20 being absorbed. Make sure you look after yourself too though, as it’s you who’s in charge of keeping everyone safe.

Seek shade and rest up: Depending on what’s in your vehicle, you’ll either be setting up your own shade or seeking the best of what nature has to offer. Be it an awning or gumtree, staying shady is the best way to keep the body temp down and facilitate a cool head. Avoid strenuous exercise when you can, preserve your energy for important jobs like searching for food or water. Figure out where your next drink is coming from: A healthy person can go for up to three weeks without food. Without water, it’s four days, so it’s pretty bloody important you get this part of your involuntary stay in the bush sorted. What you’ll want to do is set up a rain trap. A tarp is best, however, any non-absorbent material could work too. Use cable ties or rope to sling it up and make sure there’s a bucket or receptacle underneath to collect the rainwater. Time to get help: Assuming you’ve done the smart thing and let people know when and where you’re going, people will soon start searching for you when they figure out that you haven’t returned on-time. You’ll be wanting to help them out. Reflective surfaces such as aluminium foil, mirrors, and even CDs are effective ways to hail down help. Post these items strategically around your campsite and vehicle to increase your findability, making sure you’re covering a 360° radius. Failing this, and pending appropriate weather conditions (you don’t want to start a bushfire), a big ol’ burning campfire is another way to catch the attention of helicopters. Prevention is always best: The best way to stay

The best way to stay alive is to be prepared and prevent where possible.

STAYING SAFE: Host of All 4 Adventure Jase Andrews honed his skills in the Australian bush from an early age.

Photos: Contributed

Driven by an unquenchable love for the undiscovered regions of Australia, this modern day explorer is persistent and fearless when heading out into the wild. alive in the outback is to be prepared and prevent where possible. Invest in a sat-phone, purchase yourself a solar powered water-purifying device and solar powered

lights for night-time visibility. Bring plenty of non-perishable food, a jerry can of fuel and stacks of water. With any luck, you’ll be

so well stocked your emergency will almost feel like quality family time! Follow the above guide guys, and keep you and the family safe. Australia

is a marvellous place, however, she can be very unforgiving. Go to the website all4adventure.com.

Don’t miss out on a journey to a world best destination Graham D Stephenson A VISIT to Queensland’s tropical north city of Port Douglas is an absolute must because it is one of the world’s most diverse holiday destinations.

The multiple resorts, villas and superb golf course as you approach the town centre give a good indication of what will be coming up, and then driving along Macrossan Street through the main

shopping centre gives you outstanding views of multiple and different shops, restaurants and more accommodation resorts. A stop off at Anzac Park and Rex Smeal Park before driving up Island

Point Road to the lookout overlooking Four Mile Beach is next, but one of the best stop-off spots is the Reef Marina, where there are hundreds of small, large and extremely large sailing and motor vessels which

sail into the Coral Sea to visit the Great Barrier Reef Islands. Must-do trips include the Lady Douglas River Cruise on a paddle steamer and the Balleyhooley Steam Railway.

Further details on the Lady Douglas River Cruise at ladydouglas. com.au. Ballyhooley Steam Railway go to ballyhoolyrail.com.au. Full story at seniors news.com.au

SENIORS \\OCTOBER, 2018

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LOOKING FOR NEW EXPERIENCES: Patti Newton has signed on as a brand ambassador for My Hosted Holidays.

Photo: Living In Pictures

Patti Newton on board with touring website Claudia Slack AUSTRALIAN icon Patti Newton is the proud new ambassador for travel site MyHostedHolidays.com, a site that allows you to compare escorted, guided and hosted holidays, all from your own home. MyHostedHolidays.com is the brainchild of company director Ash Hayden, who has worked in the accommodation

and coach tour industries for over 25 years. When he realised there was a gap in the market for the semi-retired to be able to easily compare and book hosted holidays, My Hosted Holidays became a reality. “Why isn’t there a travel website out there where guests can go, see all the tours available to their selected destination, and be able to deal direct with the tour operator?” Ash

said. “Everyone knows arranging a holiday can be stressful,” Patti concurs. MyHostedHolidays.com comes as a solution to this booking nightmare by creating one destination to view hundreds of tours. “I think you’re going to be impressed with the amount of hosted holiday options you now have at your fingertips,” Patti said. MyHostedHolidays.com

allows you to search, compare, enquire about and book a range of hosted, escorted and guided holiday tours all in one destination. They will also put you in touch with the tour operators themselves, to ensure your trip is in safe hands. Hosted holidays are perfect for those who are looking for new experiences, to meet new and interesting people

and love the convenience of being able to sit back, relax and have their trip planned for them. As the site grows and more tours and refining methods are being included, Ash loves seeing people excited about the site and is hopeful that it can further open the world of touring to over 50s. Ash also said the beauty of the site is that customers can do

everything from the comfort of their own home. Patti loves the convenience of the website, saying “My Hosted Holidays.com has made the whole process really easy for you, it really is a one stop shop”. Looking to set off on your own guided, hosted or escorted tour? See what all the fuss is about at www.myhostedholidays. com.au.

Split and the Dalmatian Coast’s wild and rugged beauty Graham D Stephenson WE HAVE finally discovered another world, a world of rugged beauty and vast contrast. It’s a world of freedom and a real Mediterranean jewel; most call it the next “Riviera”. With over 1200 islands just off its coastline, it is of course Croatia, and what is known as the Dalmatian Coast. Driving from Trieste in Italy, via the coast road is a stunning experience.

The superb scenery, which from Rijeka down towards Zadar being the nearest I can imagine as a mountainous moonscape – at times quite unreal. The high Velebit range and Sjeverni Velebit National Park on our left tumbled down to the very edge of the coastal road. With very little in the way of trees on the rocky slopes, the contrast of the azure coloured Adriatic Sea on our right, made this drive along the somewhat deserted

winding road all the more outstanding. Skirting along the Croation coast and through a very small section belonging to Bosnia and Herzegovina, we passed through a host of tiny “picture postcard” coastal villages and of course beautiful Trigor before arriving at the historic city of Split. The city of Split, on first appearances appeared to be purpose built only to house workers. With numerous

huge colourless concrete high-rise building blocks of units, to us it appeared to be reminiscent of the bygone communist era and we despaired. Finally, with the friendliest of help from the locals, we were directed towards the Marjan Peninsula area where the old world and harbour beckoned us into another wonderful 1700 years of history. Split is a large city with a population of over 200,000, however the

old city centre with its heart in the Diocletians Palace was our ultimate destination. Here we strolled along the famous embankment that fronts both the Harbour and the massive ancient southern facade walls of the Palace. The Roman Emperor Diocletian started building this huge construction around 293AD – it was to be his retirement home. Centuries later the 30,000 square metre Palace became a town.

Today the ancient walls hide an absolute montage of buildings dating back to that period. IF YOU GO For more information on Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast, the following website is excellent: For Trigir, go to www. trogir-online.com or for Split, go to www.visit split.com. The author visited Croatia, compliments of Croatian National Tourist Board.

SENIORS \\OCTOBER, 2018

WELLBEING

SPOTLIGHT ON CANCER

Let’s find answers for cancer cure ‘‘ FINDING an answer to breast cancer that will help save her life is all National Breast Cancer Foundation speaker Kerrie Claffey cares about. “I just want to live,” Kerrie, 65, states firmly. “Any money they raise goes to research. That is what is going to save my life.” In the meantime Kerrie has the throttle down as she lives life to the full with competition gliding to pursue, as well as kayaking, bushwalking and cycling near her home in southern Sydney, and a fun new job. Kerrie was diagnosed with stage 3 infiltrating lobular carcinoma, twice; once at age 45 and again at 54.

When you are happy, free time is awesome. When you are not happy, free time is dangerous.

Sadly, the early cancer diagnosis and consequent chemotherapy treatment stopped Kerrie’s desperate attempts at getting pregnant through IVF. “Apart from facing a cancer diagnosis, and

that the fact that chemo brings on an early menopause; you are entering another stage of your life and facing your own mortality,” Kerrie said. “But then facing not being able to ever have your own child; it was a lot to take in at once.” But this confronting experience hasn’t dampened Kerrie’s desire to support women who are on the same pathway as herself. Keep busy The former computer programmer retired at 55 from work during the recovery stage of her second diagnosis. Kerrie wasn’t ready to do nothing, so when she heard about a tour guiding

LOVING LIFE: Kerrie Claffey’s desire to survive is underpinned by the knowledge the cancer could return. course, she happily signed up. “While you are on chemo, it’s not good to have a lot of free time on your hands,” Kerrie said. “You don’t need to have time to think; you need to stay occupied. “When you are happy, free time is awesome. When you are not happy, free time is dangerous.” Subsequently Kerrie secured a part-time guiding job in Australia and New Zealand for an

international company. Kerrie’s drive to survive is underpinned by the knowledge that the cancer could return. Last time she had four lymph nodes involved. “That is a sign it may have spread to other areas of the body,” Kerrie said. “There were no other areas evident at the time, or till now. But, that doesn’t mean it’s not there. There is no way of knowing.”

How you can help Both the NBCF and the Breast Cancer Network Australia celebrate this year milestone anniversaries of their battles to raise awareness and understanding, and fund research. Each are encouraging all Australians to get involved in a variety of events during October. Go to www.nbcf.org.au and www.bcna.org.au.

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treatments have become often more effective. Specialists are now able to use the early detection screening results to help minimise the amount of necessary treatment. REGISTER4 Register4 is a national online database of women and men who want to fast-track cancer research. It brings together researchers and people who share one common goal – to help deliver greater health benefits from cancer research,

faster. You don’t have to have cancer to help out, but you must be aged 18 and over. When you become a member you will be asked to provide some information about yourself. By signing up you are only agreeing to receive emails from Register4 about opportunities to participate in research projects, and about Register4 information, newsletters and surveys. If you do take part in a

Register4 research project, we’ll advise you of the results as soon as the researcher is able to release the information. This takes some time, as compiling research results is a painstaking process. ■ No screening test is perfect therefore not all cancers are detected through screening. “Depending on the method used, there is a five to 50 per cent chance of missing the cancer depending upon what screening test is used,” Dr Pfeiffer said.

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early,” Dr Pfeiffer said. This goes to the heart of the discussion around the benefits and harms of screening. The benefit of screening is finding the signs of the disease before we notice any symptoms. If the disease is found early, there is more opportunity for a person to live a normal life span due to better treatment options. In the past, saving a life was seen as the ultimate outcome. But times have changed as many cancer 6846744ab

BREAST physician Dr Deborah Pfeiffer, who deals with screening every day as a relieving senior medical officer with Breastscreen Queensland, looks at the issues around the current screening program. The main breast cancer risk factors are being female and aged over 50. Added to that, we are living much longer which means we more likely to get breast cancer. “However, the older you are, the less likely you are to die from breast cancer, particularly if it is found

Dr Meon Lamont

■ Digital mammography has a detection rate of between 50 to 90 per cent, depending on breast density. ■ When a cancer is found that may not progress, it can lead to a person receiving unnecessary treatment and experiencing harmful side-effects. Not all cancers are killers, Dr Pfeiffer explains. Some are invasive and may kill in time. Others can be non-invasive but can still progress. “The difficulty is knowing which of them will progress and possibly threaten life,” she said. ■ Finding an abnormality that is not cancer, but which may lead to a biopsy and cause anxiety, until it is proved not to be cancerous. ■ Finding a cancer for which the treatment is worse than the disease. “We are beginning to question the value of excessive treatment such as mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiation therapy in women over 80 with small cancers,” Dr Pfeiffer said. Register4 will send members an invitation email or you can find projects on the Register4 Current Projects page. Or phone 1300 709 485.

WELLBEING

OCTOBER, 2018// SENIORS

Energetic $22.9m grant gets over-65s moving Seniors juggle priorities as they battle to be fit, healthy Alison Houston OVER-65s are feeling positive about a new $22.9 million Australian Government program to encourage sport and physical activity providers to help them become more active. A Gold Coast park vox pop found issues which affected participation currently included cost, accessibility, friendship and socialising, not being “tied down” in the case of grey nomads, level of exertion, interest and existing health problems or injuries. The number of Australians aged 65 and over is projected to more than double in the next 40 years to nearly nine million people, representing more than 20 per cent of the population. Sport Australia CEO Kate Palmer said that made it vital for sport and fitness providers to be adaptable and offer more options and products for older Australians, and the Move It Aus – Better Ageing program was an important step towards achieving that. Sport Australia’s AusPlay research shows that although overall physical activity levels drop as we age, the main motivations to be active remain almost the same for over-65s – physical health and fitness (77.4 per cent); fun/enjoyment (39.4 per cent) and social

reasons (26.1 per cent). Comments to Seniors didn’t support that, with “getting out” and “socialising” being as important to most people as the exercise itself. At Burleigh Heads Bowls Club, Gail Rottier, 71, and Margaret Krall, 72, agreed that “social contact, mental stimulation and physical fitness... to a level”, were all part of enjoyment of the game. Gail has been playing for 3-4 years, and Margaret for just 18 months. “I moved up here and needed to do something, and it’s the best thing I ever did,” Gail said. But a drink at the club and time with friends was all part of the fun. “Just because you get older doesn’t mean you have to give up on everything!” the pair laughed. Yvonne Moon also joined the club to meet people after moving to the area a few years ago, having played sport when she was younger and later been involved with surf lifesaving. She said lessons and encouragement to “give it a go” were important to drive participation. While at 57, Amanda Edwards doesn’t fit the over-65s target group, a health issue forced her to stop working, changing her friendship group, energy levels and general approach to life. She was keen to point

BOWLS BUDDIES: Gail Rottier and Margaret Krall, at Burleigh Heads Bowls Club, say social contact, mental stimulation and physical fitness are all part of enjoying the sport. Photo: Contributed out that starting to play bowls four years ago, using an extension arm so she doesn’t have to bend, had lifted her spirits enormously. It’s an interesting point, given that Sport Australia’s research found that among over-65s who didn’t participate in sport or physical activity, poor health and injury was the biggest barrier. The research also showed a tendency towards what it considered “recreational activities” than sport. The most popular activities included: walking (60.9 per cent), fitness/gym (27.8 per cent), swimming (10.8 per

cent), golf (9.8 per cent), cycling (7.3 per cent) and bowls (4.6 per cent). Again, apart from walking, this didn’t completely marry with Seniors’ quick poll which, taking place on the Gold Coast, found that after walking, it was swimming, surfing, golf and bowls that were most frequently mentioned, with other interests including yoga, tai chi and dancing. Victoria University sport participation expert Associate Professor Dr Rochelle Eime said her research showed that only 1.2 per cent of Australians aged 50-54, and less than 0.5 per cent of over-55s played sport, compared to

40 per cent of 10-14-year-olds, when participation hits its peak. She said sport clubs and organisations rarely focused on older adults, and although physical activity in later life was proven to have significant health and social benefits, including connectedness and stopping isolation (often associated with depression), older Australians weren’t getting the message – or at least not acting on it. Sport Australia’s new sport strategy, Sport 2030, is a 12-year plan highlighting for the first time in Australian history, the idea that national

sport policy must focus on more than competition sport. Dr Eime said it was critical that the voices of older Australians were not ignored in this new plan, with funding offering “a real opportunity to research the needs, desires and capabilities of older adults, modify sports, and develop new leisure activities for seniors”, including adapting cricket and other team sports to shorter, slower games. Applications for grants close on October 31. Guidelines are available at sportaus.gov.au/ betterageing.

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SENIORS \\OCTOBER, 2018

LIVING

It’s a very good life

Living

A perfect position to enjoy the qualities of a country town BRAND INSIGHTS RELAXING and enjoying your retirement doesn’t come easier than living on the beautiful Clarence River. Grafton by Gateway Lifestyle is a modern over-50s community close to all the amenity that Grafton has to offer. Our residents love the location, many of them have stayed close to home, near to all their family and friends but now with all the advantages of community living. Set among paddocks, the community is perfectly positioned to enjoy life in a country town. Whether you are just moving up the road or from the hustle and bustle of a big city, Grafton by Gateway Lifestyle is a well designed seniors community to support you in your retirement. If you enjoy travel either by plane or caravan the community is in the perfect location which

includes parking for your caravan or motorhome on site – the perfect lock and leave location. When at home there are facilities and activities to enjoy including a swimming pool, tennis court and community clubhouse set among landscaped gardens. Whether your retirement dream is to free up money to enjoy travel, socialise or to put away for later, Grafton by Gateway Lifestyle may be the right choice for you. With no entry or exit fees plus no stamp duty or council rates payable there are many good financial reasons why a Gateway Lifestyle community may be right for you. The final release of brand new homes are ready to move into before Christmas – make an appointment to look at what is on offer or visit our community and meet with the residents. New homes start from $250,000.

HAPPY AT HOME: Grafton by Gateway Lifestyle residents love the location and many of them have stayed close to home, near to all their family and friends and have gained all the advantages of community living. Photo: Alain Bouvier Grafton sales manager Chris Ryder has seen many new residents move in and find a new lease of life in the community. “It has been amazing to see just what community living has brought to our residents’ lives,” he said. “Everyone is different, whether it has been the

benefit of new neighbours and social connections or the comfort that comes with a low-maintenance new home in a secure community, we are seeing our residents settle in and thrive. “Our current residents range from locals enjoying the financial freedom by

capitalising on the great prices that our homes offer or seniors who have travelled to be in Grafton – drawn by the location and the access to fantastic amenities including hospitals and all that a large country town has to offer.” To find out more about

what Grafton can offer, phone Chris Ryder on 0428 120 086 to book an appointment to view a new home. Or go to gatewaylifestyle.com.au or phone 1300 361 311. Start living now in your brand new home and enjoy your first summer in the country.

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LIVING

OCTOBER, 2018// SENIORS

Animals welcome at centre IF OLDER residents can’t get to Macadamia Castle at Knockrow, then animals from the farm are set to come to them thanks to a new program. Macadamia Castle is now offering a service to aged care facilities in the Northern Rivers, bringing their animal farm creatures into visit the residents. Park manager Tony Gilding said the castle had always been a popular sport for seniors groups. “Recently when one of our keepers was talking to a seniors group, the keeper inquired about a previously keen visitor who hadn’t been seen for some time,” he said. “She was told that there were many residents who had moved into higher care and were no longer able to leave the centre for long periods of time.” Mr Gilding said the idea came from there, with the castle then trialling the new service, delivering the animal park experience to Adventist Aged Care in Alstonville. The success of that visit saw it become a permanent service, with centres at Murwillumbah, Tweed Heads, Coraki and Lismore also booking visits. “When we chatted to lifestyle co-ordinators at the centres, we were told when residents first come into care the two things they missed the most were their animals and their gardens,” Mr Gilding said. “We knew there was a lot of documented evidence about the benefits of animal therapy programs and we knew what was really important when people are admitted to residential aged care is that there is a connectedness to what they have done previously and to the community in general.” ■ Animal assisted therapy is a form of treatment designed to improve a person’s social, emotional or cognitive functioning and has been found to reduce anxiety.

FRIENDS: Adventist Aged Care Alstonville residents enjoy a visit from some friendly critters.

Photo: Contributed

ALL THE INFO: Ken and Joan Knight have found the My Health Record to be beneficial when dealing with Ken’s atrial fibrillation. Photo: Contributed

Decision on digital health record looms

SENIORS have until November 15 to decide whether or not they would like a My Health Record. For many older Australians, the decision is an easy one. Ballina resident Ken Knight, 88, has a long history of suffering from atrial fibrillation. AF is a type of abnormal heart rhythm that causes the upper chambers of the heart to quiver instead of beat normally. Mr Knight registered for a My Health Record in 2012 when it first came out and often talks about the benefits he has realised over the years. “When the doctors ask me a lot of questions and then the hospital staff ask me the same questions, such as what tablets I’m

taking and what health problems I’ve had, I tell them to look at my My Health Record and they can see everything there,” he said. “At Lismore Hospital I told them I have a My Health Record and they looked it up. It saved me having to repeat myself.” Having Mr Knight’s health history – such as diagnosis and medications – in one place means that when he is not feeling well he doesn’t have to remember all the information and respond to a lot of questions. North Coast Primary Health Network has been engaging with the community about My Health Record this year. “Seniors are generally

very positive about My Health Record as they can see the benefits of connecting information across their health providers,” NCPHN program manager Amanda Wilkinson said. “Common questions are around how they can access their record if they don’t know how to use a computer very well. We explain how loved ones in their family might like to be nominated representatives so they can access and view the record and be kept informed of their loved one’s medications and test results. “Others are happy their doctor, pharmacist and hospital can see the information and don’t feel the need to see it

themselves. “Some are concerned about how to keep their health information private and safe. When we explain all the security and privacy controls, it assures people that this summary of their medical data is protected. “Being able to set access controls helps them realise they ultimately have the power to choose who sees what, if they want to turn on those controls. It just allays their fears.” Ms Wilkinson said NCPHN had been connecting with seniors to ensure they understood My Health Record. “North Coast PHN has been very engaged with the older population in our area,” she said.

“We have engaged with seniors at local public events, libraries and hospitals as well as attending local community groups such as Probus. “If you would like an opportunity in the next month to further explain My Health Record, please call (02) 6618 5436 to make arrangements for us to talk to your community group or attend one of our already planned sessions listed on our North Coast PHN events page at www. ncphn.org.au/events.”

More information on My Health Record can be found at myhealthrecord. gov.au or by phoning 1800 723 471. Those wishing to opt out of having a record have until November 15 to do so.

Thrifty bags of savings BRAND INSIGHTS

KEEP IT FRESH: Roslyn Roberts keeps her fruit and vegetables as fresh as the day of purchase to the day of eating them with Super Fresh Bags. Photo: Contributed

ONE of the simplest ways we can save money is by reducing our own food wastage. Throwing out just $10 worth of food a week is $520 a year in the garbage. So, how do you take advantage of buying in bulk without the fruit and vegetables going off before they are eaten?

Super Fresh Bags are a food storage system that is easy to use, efficient and relatively inexpensive. They are made from food grade materials designed to keep fruit and vegetables fresh as the day they were bought. Vegetables can be kept 2-4 weeks and longer, depending on vegetable type. The bags can be kept

in any part of the refrigerator, shelves, door and crisper. They are washable in water and reusable and last for over two years. The bags come in three sizes and are sold in packs. Delivery via Australia Post. Super Fresh Bags can be purchased online at superfreshbags.com.au. Phone (02) 9631 0143 .

SENIORS \\OCTOBER, 2018

MULLUM MUSIC FESTIVAL

From humble beginnings, the picturesque village of Mullumbimby has hosted the Mullum Music Festival (MMF) since its inception in 2008 with this year’s event – from November 15-18 marking the eleventh. The past decade has seen more than 600 world-class artists and thousands of people make their way to the festival. No gates. No big headlines. No VIP areas. Basically a ‘no hassle’ festival. Go to trybooking.com.

BYRON LATIN FIESTA

On Thursday, November 1-4 November at 7pm, it will be time for the 13th Annual Byron Latin Fiesta. Four nights of Latin dance parties with live bands, performances and social dancing plus two days of Latin Dance workshops for beginners to experienced dancers. Come and enjoy a feast of Latin music and dance, there is something for everyone at the Byron Latin Fiesta! This event is one of the longest running Latin dance festivals in Australia. Main Festival Hub: Byron Theatre; Feeder Venues: Guzman Y

Gomez, Byron Bay English Language School. For more information, go to byronlatinfiesta.com.au.

NORTHERN RIVERS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Inspirations - Soloist, Leanne McGowan and Conductor, Spiros Rantos will perform on Sunday, October 21 at 2.20pm (NSW time) at the Tweed Heads Civic Centre, Brett Street, Tweed Heads. Adults $45; Concession $40; Student $20; School children 18 and under free (accompanied by concert going adult). For tickets, go to nrso.com.au or phone (02) 6672 5404. Box office at Tweed Heads Civic Centre. For inquiries and bookings, phone 0478 012 324.

WORK WITH AN ACCLAIMED ARTIST

Leading Australian contemporary artist Laith McGregor will teach a drawing workshop at Tweed Regional Gallery in Murwillumbah on Sunday, October 21, 10.30am4.30pm. The artist is best-known for his highly detailed, large-scale biro and pencil portraits and self portraits. Beginners welcome. Some materials

25 provided, $85/$80 member of the Friends and Foundation, book online, go to trybooking.com/xvly.

BYRON BAY FILM FESTIVAL

Held across multiple venues, the Byron Bay Film Festival (BBFF) is a platform for outstanding independent film talent, showcasing a uniquely rich and diverse program of entertaining, inspiring and thought provoking films. It’s a festival that fuses artistry, education and innovation, enhancing the world view and collective social dialogue through the power and storytelling of film. The event which started on October 12 runs through to October 21. Go to bbff.com.au.

NORTH COAST NATIONAL

Now in its 132nd year, the North Coast National show at North Lismore, 18-20 October, is a celebration of everything that encompasses the region including the farming communities, promoting local produce, rejoicing our artists, performers and championing local business. The show boasts a jam-packed

program of agricultural events, sustainability education, cultural and creative experiences plus loads of fun. Go to northcoastnational.com. au. Held every Friday (weather permitting) in the centre of Nimbin town, join in the weekly activity or simply use the materials to create your own arty stuff. Next event is October 19 from 11am2pm at Alsopps Park.

Nimbin has been producing a series of hugely popular Blue Moon Cabarets for over 20 years. The Cabarets present a wonderfully diverse array of performance arts: comedy, poetry, music, dance ensembles, acrobatics and circus. Bookings are essential, and ticket and table reservations can be made at Perceptio Bookshop. October 26, 6.30pm at Nimbin School of Arts Hall. (02) 6689 1766.

LISMORE ART CLUB TUTORIAL

MOONLIGHT MOVIE NIGHT

ART IN THE PARK

Lismore Art Club, meets every third Saturday of the month, nest is on October 20, the group work on visual Art in a friendly supportive environment. Members get together to share their artistic talents. Often they invite an artist to tutor the workshop, they may specialise in a favorite medium, or theme e.g. watercolour, landscapes. Tutorials are held from 9am-3pm at Wilson Park School $20 for members $25 for non-members. Go to lismoreartclub@gmail. com.

BLUE MOON CABARET

The School of Arts

A fun filled family event where everyone is welcome to enjoy; carnival games, lucky door prizes, haunted house, live music, food and stalls. At Bexhill, October 27 from 4-10pm. Fixed Price: Adult $5, Other $10. Bexhill Public School, 12 Withers Street, Bexhill. Email bexhillpublicschool@ pandcaffiliate.org.au.

SUNDAY WORKDAY

Lismore, October 28, the Friends of the Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens meet to help maintain the gardens. Bring water bottle, hat, gloves, sturdy shoes and wear long pants and long

What's on

sleeved shirt. Free event from 7.30-11am. Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens, 313 Wyrallah Road, Lismore. Facebook, go to facebook.com/ FLRBG.

LISMORE CROCHET CRAFTERNOON

Learn to crochet, expand skills or sit, chat and crochet away at Wyrallah Hall on November 4. Free hook and yarn on the first visit. Entry by gold coin donation, 16+, tea and coffee available from 2-4pm. For more information, phone Jess Turner on 0434 963 306.

DUNOON PRIMARY SPRING FAIR

Come and enjoy the treasures and the treats at Dunoon Public School’s annual (major) fundraiser The Spring Fair on November 3. Now in its third year, the Spring Fair is becoming a day not to be missed in our local community calendar.

Fifty shades of Troy Alison Houston GOLD and Tweed Coast audiences get front-row seats as Troy Cassar-Daley launches his new Greatest Hits album and Australia-wide acoustic tour on Friday, October 19 – the very night of his concert at Twin Towns. The double CD and 2019 tour will mark 30 years in the industry, as well as Troy’s 50th birthday – and he’s bringing daughter Jem along when he officially hits the road. “How proud as a dad can you be to be able to take your daughter on tour with you and experience this wonderful country?” Troy marvelled to Seniors as he started on the publicity trail. While he’s confident his audience will “embrace” Jess, the Country Hall of Famer admitted to a few nerves on his own side, not having done an acoustic tour for about 20 years. “I’ve always had the crutch of a band to lean on, but this is just me on a guitar,” he said. “I’m excited because this is the epitome of being a storyteller, and for audiences it won’t get more intimate than this...

Troy Cassar-Daley shares his gift of music. but I have to work three times as hard to make it good!” Not that he says he’s ever really seen what he does as work “it’s not a proper job – it’s a privilege”. Troy said the 42-track album was “bookended with two new singles”, and traced what has been “a wonderful musical adventure and journey”. It’s a journey that has taken him from his very first single, Proud Young Man, to his latest single, Wouldn’t Change a Thing. The latter was Troy’s closing comment to Seniors when we spoke last year as he looked back on his life after writing his autobiography and album, Things I Carry Around. The single by the same name has also made Troy’s Greatest Hits list,

which includes his 31 career number ones and nine crowd favourites, including Bird on a Wire and V8 Town. “Every time I hear that song it takes me back to doing laps late into the night with my mates in my car around Prince Street in Grafton,” Troy states in the liner notes – and what could be more ‘country’ than that? “I’m a big believer in you’ve got to know where you’ve come from to know where you’re going.” There are stacks of interesting little details in those notes, and Troy promises more in person, about how songs came about, inspired by “good reverb” in a motel bathroom or scribbled as a poem on a serviette. In Sing About This Country, he recalls he and Colin Buchanan “throwing

IT’S A PRIVILEGE: Troy Cassar-Daley launches his Greatest Hits album and tour on the night of his Twin Towns gig on Friday, October 19. instruments across the table” as they wrote, and you might be surprised how many songs he has written with the man he calls “a true master of lyrics”, Paul Kelly. “It’s part of the mystery of songwriting – some you have to fight with for months and some just fall into your hands, and you’ve got to have sense enough to have your hands out to catch them,” Troy said. Shadows on the Hill, the second new song on

the album, he said, was just such a gift – it “simply fell out of the sky” after a family gathering, laughing, crying and sharing stories together. While the album includes a number of duos with some of the biggest names in the business, including Paul Kelly, Slim Dusty, Kasey Chambers and Jimmy Barnes, Troy said he’s kept pretty well grounded by his immediate family and his “beautiful big indigenous family in

Grafton”. They are happy to let him know that to them he’s just “the same old Troy, and you can leave the country singer hat at the door”. For more, go to troycassardaley.com.au and for tickets to the Gold/Tweed Coast concert ($39, featuring 2017 Golden Guitar and CMC new artist winner Fanny Lumsden while Jem finishes Year 12) go to twintowns.com.au or phone 1800 014 014.

OCTOBER, 2018// SENIORS

Money

Trends along the investment road

Tony Kaye MANY seniors operate their own superannuation funds, so it’s interesting to see some new data showing where most of the people with DIY funds are investing. Australia’s largest online broking platform CommSec has done just that, analysing the investing habits of thousands of different self-managed super funds (SMSF), who collectively manage billions of dollars in assets. CommSec has identified some quite interesting trends. The first is that a growing number of SMSF trustees are broadening their share exposures to companies outside of the top 20 companies listed on the Australian Securities Exchange, including into international stocks, either directly or through exchange-traded funds. While most of those with their own super funds still have large exposures to the biggest Australian companies, they are also diversifying into smaller stocks. SMSF investors have also been actively selling stocks that have had strong gains over the past 12 months, suggesting that many view them as fully valued. Meanwhile, a rising market has seen overall SMSF trading activity rise, with the total value of

NEW TRENDS: CommSec has found seniors with SMSF’s are changing how they invest those funds.

Photo: Contributed

shares traded up 2.1 per cent and volumes up 5.8 per cent, resulting in the average deal value falling more than 3.3 per cent. Notably, the average deal size of ASX20 trades has dropped by 10.8 per cent. Here are CommSec’s key findings from trading data between January 1 and June 30 this year: SMSFs are still looking beyond the top 20: Frustrated by the under-performance of many of the large blue-chips that have traditionally been among their favourite stocks, SMSF investors have

continued to turn to a more diversified group of mid and small cap companies. SMSFs have become blue-chip bargain hunters: At the same time, many SMSF investors have taken advantage of share price weakness to snap up blue-chip shares with a history of strong dividends at bargain prices. SMSFs are using exchange traded funds to diversify: Exchange traded fund (ETF) holdings continue to grow, as investors use ETFs to diversify offshore and into other asset classes.

International listed investment companies and listed investment trusts are increasingly popular: Internationally focused listed investment companies (LICs) and listed investment trusts (LITs) have carved out a significant niche as investors seek out diversification opportunities. Direct international share trades continue to climb: From a low base, the value of direct international share trades by SMSFs has jumped more than 57 per cent over the last year, with a growing focus on Chinese

equities. Increasing sophistication CommSec notes that SMSF investors are becoming increasingly diverse and sophisticated in their investment choices. “While their portfolios are still heavily weighted towards larger stocks, SMSFs are also looking beyond the ASX20, as well as taking advantage of market dips to buy into blue-chip shares at a bargain price.” “Only time can tell whether these value-based trades will play out as planned. Meanwhile, our analysis

shows that SMSFs have continued to invest across the wider market and to actively trade in fast-moving sectors in search of new growth opportunities.” Despite these trends, the list of stocks most traded by SMSFs has remained largely unchanged over the last six months, with only a few significant shifts. The top three most traded stocks by value remain Commonwealth Bank (CBA), Telstra (TLS) and National Australia Bank (NAB) although they now account for a smaller proportion of trades overall – 13.8 per cent, down from 15.5 per cent six months ago. At a portfolio level, the average number of stocks held by SMSFs is 11.9 stocks. SMSFs remain considerably more diversified than other investors, with the average number of stocks held by non-SMSF investors 4.9. An analysis of the top 12 exchange-traded funds (ETFs) traded by value shows SMSFs increasing their exposure to currency and property, as well as international equities. The strength of this shift suggests it is being driven by a desire for greater diversification, rather than simply the relative performance of different markets. Tony Kaye is the editor of Eureka Report, which is owned by listed financial services company InvestSMART. For more go to investsmart.com.au.

Never forget: Returns are a hope, but fees are a certainty Paul Clitheroe LIKE most investors I’m a big reader of the news, and there’s certainly never any shortage of macroeconomic commentary to pore over. Some reads like fiction, some like comedy – and that’s why we need to read news about the economy carefully. It tends to take one position or another, and a healthy dose of scepticism never goes astray. The times I worry most are when the commentary is uniformly optimistic – shouts of “buy now” make

me nervous. But when I read that Chicken Little is correct, and the sky is about to fall in (which of course it never does) I think ‘gee if everyone is selling, it’s got to be time to buy’. Right now our economy is better than most people probably believe. Yes, there’s a quite a lot of negative macroeconomic commentary around Trump and trade wars but I’m seeing a reasonable balance of views – some positive, some negative, and some in the middle. A bit of balance never hurts, so when people ask me if I’m a contrarian

investor I explain that I see myself as a common sense investor. And that’s not just based on my views about macroeconomics. One question I’m often asked is “How can I earn 20 per cent annually on my investments?” Seriously. Yes, on the odd (make that rare) occasion I have earned 20 per cent on an investment. But pick up your calculator and do the sums. No, wait, there probably aren’t enough digits. Better use your computer. Because if you take a look at how our wealth would grow with 20 per

Paul Clitheroe. cent returns each and every year, we’d all be billionaires in no time at all. Clearly, expectations about returns are often

out of whack with reality. A better question to ask is “What can a balanced fund do for me?” And the answer is a return of around 4-5 per cent per annum above inflation. But, and it’s a big but, you need to watch for whether that return includes costs. One thing I know for sure in life is that returns are a hope, but fees are a certainty. If I can earn 4-5 per cent annually above inflation – and after fees – I’m delighted. And frankly, these days with modern technology streamlining investing, there is no reason for investors to be

paying high fees. Bottom line, be realistic about what your money can earn – and pay careful attention to the returns after costs. No matter how good the economic outlook, there’s not much in it for you if you’re paying above the odds on your investments. It just means lining someone else’s pockets instead of your own. Paul Clitheroe is Chairman of InvestSMART, Chairman of the Australian Government Financial Literacy Board and chief commentator for Money Magazine.

SENIORS \\OCTOBER, 2018

MONEY

Financial shape-ups

Your attitude to money can shape the way you invest Paul Clitheroe

INVESTMENTS: It doesn’t have to be hard to go your own way. money is a passion or just a vague interest. You may, for instance, be fascinated by the process of selecting shares. But that is too time consuming for others, myself included.

If you love to spend a heap of time researching the sharemarket, good on you. I am quite happy to hold shares like BHP individually but to be frank I have neither the time nor interest in keeping an eye

Photo: GlobalStock

on the shares of the future – small companies, which may become big companies in time. Nor would I pretend I can select and manage international shares without a lot of time and effort.

This is what I love about managed funds. Of course, I want exposure to all these shares. And a professionally managed share portfolio lets me get the benefit of these investments while I am out sailing.

Paul Clitheroe is chairman of InvestSMART, chairman of the Australian Government Financial Literacy Board and chief commentator for Money Magazine.

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

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INVEST the way that suits you because if there’s one thing experience has taught me, when something becomes too hard or too time consuming, we’re more likely to give it away. Your attitude to money can shape the way you choose to invest. Some people have a keen interest in building a vast pot of money for its own sake. For others, money is all about what it provides – the ability to make choices about how you live your life. We all need to eat and pay bills but money lets us enjoy the fun stuff like family holidays and personal hobbies be they golf, surfing, or, in my case, sailing. Another place we are all different is whether

How good is that? Fees are a drag on investment performance, so this is something to watch for with managed funds. But it’s the same if you go for DIY. The cost shouldn’t just be measured in terms of direct expenses like brokerage. You also need to work out the time you spend managing your investments (tax time can be especially challenging when either you or your accountant sort out your tax position). The bottom line is, if, like me, you want to do some direct investing yourself and still use professional fund managers, no problem. If you want professional managers to do it all for you, again, no problem. It’s all about investing in the way that suits you best. And it doesn’t have to be hard.

LIVING

OCTOBER, 2018// SENIORS

Food focus is helping residents to eat, drink and be healthy Feros food philosophy is based on wholesome eating BRAND INSIGHTS SCOTT Falls may not be a medical expert, but he takes immense pride in the role he plays in ensuring the residents of Feros Care’s Bangalow Village stay as healthy as possible. “We can give them medicines and pills, but food is such a vital part of keeping them well,” the head chef said of the 64 seniors who call the village home. “The better and more nutritional the food we serve, the less they need some medicines. That’s where the phrase ‘food is medicine’ comes from.”

That concept – food as medicine – is not new, with Hippocrates, the father of Western medicine, said to have coined the term almost 2500 years ago. The Greek physician believed eating wholesome food was the basis for good health and hundreds of centuries later, that same philosophy is driving menu creation at Feros Care’s aged care residences at Bangalow, Byron Bay and Kingscliff’s Wommin Bay. “Other than a few specialty items and a certain amount of frozen peas and beans, we use all fresh food and produce,” Scott explained.

ABOVE LEFT: One of the many fine dishes. ABOVE RIGHT: Feros Care’s chef Scott Falls. “There are no artificial additives and it’s all freshly made. Our soups are made from scratch every morning from fresh ingredients.” Scott’s work environment is testament to his words. A whiteboard in the kitchen outlines key culinary details about each resident – allergies in red, dislikes in blue. The bookshelf in his office is filled with textbooks about food and nutrition, among them the extremely pertinent Eat to Cheat Dementia by dietitian Ngaire Hobbins. “We have residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and providing

FEEL RIGHT AT HOME WITH FEROS CARE We’re an experienced not-for-proﬁt organisation that has been supporting Feros Village residents for more than 25 years. Our villages are designed so residents can live the sort of life they want, with the level of genuine care and support they need. Each village offers a diverse range of programs tailored to support the unique needs of our residents – from low-care through to palliative care, dementia, rehabilitation and respite. Our dedicated nursing and care staff are available 24 hours providing you and your loved ones peace of mind. Connecting residents with tranquil outdoor surroundings, each village boasts open spaces, garden access, private and communal areas for family and friends to enjoy. And the best part, pets are welcomed residents and play a signiﬁcant role in village life.

To book a tour or to learn more about our beautiful villages, call our friendly team today.

CALL 1300 763 583 Visit feroscare.com.au

Bangalow • Byron Bay • Wommin Bay FER0722 10/18

food that is enticing as well as nourishing can play a huge role in their quality of life,” Scott said. “We serve many traditional recipes and dishes that they can identify with and we’ve also seen how smells of food can inspire memories. “If we serve fish and chips, it can remind someone of being at the beach with their parents or own children years ago.” Feros Care’s commitment to raising the bar when it comes to its menus has seen Scott and his fellow head chefs attend renowned cook

‘‘

That concept – food as medicine – is not new... Maggie Beer’s ‘Creating an Appetite for Life’ educational program. “Maggie has a passion for ensuring residents in aged care receive fresh food filled with flavour and nutrition,” Scott said. “As head chefs, we can help achieve that and it was brilliant to hear Maggie and other aged care industry experts

Photos: Gail Forrer

outline how we can deliver the best menus for our residents. “Take purees – it’s not a case of one-size-fits-all. People with different health conditions swallow differently so it’s vital we are strict about the consistency of our purees. “We’re also trialling moulds so a puree on the plate looks like the vegetable it is, for example a carrot. “So much thought goes into what we do and you can tell if it’s been a successful menu when the residents’ plates are empty – and that’s always a good feeling.”

SENIORS \\OCTOBER, 2018

REVIEWS

The story of a mighty ship

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Tip

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LOCAL BARGAIN

A Dawn with no Birdsong THE Western Front. 1917. A place closer to hell than any man has ever been. German forces are overrunning the British and Australian lines and Alex Ray, a young soldier assigned to dig tunnels beneath the enemy’s lines in order to destroy them with explosives, is left with two choices: to remain, fight and almost certainly die along with his two closest friends who have already been killed, or to flee from the front in a desperate attempt to fulfil a promise to save a French family including a young woman, Lisle Raimond, to whom Alex has become closely attached. Alex knows that his agonising decision will almost certainly cost him his life, no matter what he chooses to do. Inspired by the true events surrounding the executions of British Empire soldiers during the First World War, this is the story of a struggle for survival when it is not the enemy who are your greatest foes, it is the very people for whom you are fighting. Carefully crafted and with a deep understanding of what life was like in the trenches during that terrible period, Tony Matthews’ powerful and emotionally charged new novel, A Dawn with no Birdsong takes us back in time with rare clarity, deep compassion and an enviable beauty of expression.

MICHAEL Palin brings to life one of the greatest adventures of all time in his new book Erebus: The Story of a Ship. It is September 2014, and the wreck of a sailing vessel has been discovered at the bottom of the sea in the frozen wastes of the Canadian arctic. The ship is broken at the stern and covered in a woolly coat of underwater vegetation. Its whereabouts had been a mystery for over a century and a half. Its name was HMS Erebus. The author, former Monty Python stalwart and much-loved television globetrotter, brings this extraordinary ship back to life, following it from its launch in 1826 to the epic voyages of discovery that led to glory in the Antarctic and to ultimate catastrophe in the Arctic. Palin explores the intertwined careers of the men who shared its journeys – the dashing James Clark Ross who charted much of the ‘Great Southern Barrier’ and oversaw some of the earliest scientific experiments to be conducted there, and the troubled John Franklin, who at the age of sixty and after a chequered career, commanded the ship on its final, disastrous expedition. And he vividly recounts the experiences of the men who first stepped ashore on Antarctica’s Victoria Land, and those who, just a few years later, froze to death one by one in the Arctic ice, as rescue missions desperately tried to reach them. The result is a wonderfully evocative account of one of the most extraordinary adventures of the nineteenth century. Published by Penguin, Erebus: The Story of a Ship is in stores now. RRP $35.

A Dawn with no Birdsong by Tony Matthews. Connect with Tony online at a-dawn-with-no-birdsong.weebly.com.

A Bloke-a-saurus joke book PUT your hand in your pocket for a great yarn and help raise funds for the Gotcha 4 Life Foundation work in training male crisis counsellors. Gus and Steve Worland’s The Bloke-a-saurus is full of jokes for blokes, fair dinkum funnies and true blue Aussie wisdom. Knockabout brothers Gus and Steve know a good joke when they hear one, and this smorgasbord of their favourite gags and yarns

will keep the men in your life giggling all the way to the dunny and back. Chocked full of the Worland brothers’ best jokes about being a dad, a son, a mate, a husband and much, much more, this collection gives you their funniest thigh-slappers, from one-liners and wait-for-its to shaggy dog stories, knock knocks, lightbulb jokes, Aussie rhyming slang, the longest and shortest joke in the world... and of course, their choicest and most

time-honoured dad jokes. Through laughter and a tipping of the hat to the important things in life, The Bloke-a-Saurus also presents the wisdom of the ages with advice from the masters that helps grow boys into men, and stories that remind us that while we’re all laughing, some blokes are doing it tougher than others. Published by Simon & Schuster, The Bloke-a-Saurus is RRP $32.99.

NEWS AND VIEWS

OCTOBER, 2018// SENIORS

Get in sync with total sum of you ‘‘

Quitting work is only one part of retirement MINDSET for Life helps retirees to mentally transition through the highs and lows of leaving work to move into a satisfying retirement life. Developed by The Australian Centre for Social Innovation and led by researcher Melanie Lambert, it’s a free, peerled, group program which any senior, anywhere, can participate in or deliver. The program aims to help retirees to gain certainty and clarity about their journey into the retirement life which many enter unscripted. Under the guidance of a peer convenor working with six to eight retirees face-to-face, the informal interactive workshop is run over two, three-hour sessions. More than finances Pilot program participant Stephen Merrett, 64, found that much of the material available for retirees is around financial planning and little is available to

Most people are going into retirement with quite short-term plans.

deal with lifestyle decisions. “I had already done the financial planning bit,” Stephen said. “I was more interested in how you go about replacing work. Love it or hate it, it plays a major role in our life.” Stephen found himself struggling with adjusting to retirement. “It struck me, when you are working there is the push factor; you really want to escape from work,” he said. “Then there is the pull factor; the climate, the food, the culture. But, it

wasn’t the same. It seemed odd now that I had all the time that I wanted and the resources to be able to do it, it just wasn’t as attractive. “The pull factor was still there, but when there is nothing pushing you to go, it’s a different experience.” With the honeymoon over, the things he thought he would really enjoy doing weren’t giving Stephen satisfaction. Participating in the Mindset for Life program gave Stephen many of the answers he was seeking. “From the beginning there were so many pennies that dropped” he said. “For some people, retirement is a third of their life and I don’t think society has done much about planning that phase of life,” Ms Lambert said. The Mindset for Life toolkit can be downloaded for free from www.think human.com.au.

POSITIVE RETIREMENT: Mindset for Life program member and now workshop convenor Stephen Merrett. Photo: Contributed

‘Girls’ go crazy for musical idol in Magical Mix Tania Phillips

MUSIC MIXED UP: The Round Mountain Girls.

Photo: Tao Jones

IT’S NOT every day you get to work with a hero or two, but that’s just what has happened to multigenerational band The Round Mountain Girls, one of the headliners again at this year’s Ballina Country Music Festival. The band, who have just written and recorded a single with ARIA Hall of Fame member John Williamson, have a special place in their heart for the Ballina festival. With the event just down the road from their Tweed Coast home base they are one of the few bands to play all six year’s since its inception. “Carol gets us back every year,” songwriter and one of the lead singers Chris Brooker said. He said the fact that it is near the ocean allowing fans a beach holiday while also being spread around different venues in the

town makes it a unique community event. And for the boys from the Round Mountain Girls, it’s a chance to play close to home. This year they will join the likes of Adam Brand and The Johnny Cash Show and a huge line-up of other stars from November 2-4. Now in its seventh year, this is a three day festival with more than 30 acts providing free entertainment on six stages in various venue and locations throughout Ballina. After more than a decade the “girls” (who are all guys aged from 28 through to their 60s) seem to be on the edge of becoming an overnight success of sorts after attracting the attention of country music legend John Williamson. After writing letters back and forth with song ideas, group songwriter Chris Brooker found himself making a trek up the mountain from Tweed

to Williamson’s Queensland home at Springbrook to work on the song Magical Mix. “He saw us at a festival and was impressed with the tightness of the band,” Chris said. However it wasn’t until the Cruisin’ Country 7 Cruise that they did with Williamson and a slew of other well-known artists that Chris looked down and saw him in the crowd. “I lost my mind,” says Chris, “we all thought he’d leave but he seemed to be getting into it and at the end of the gig he came up and introduced himself to us”. It was the first of a number of “pinch me moments” for the 48 year old teacher and the rest of the band including writing in John’s shed and recording at Tyagarah with well-known Australianbased record producer Nick DiDia. For more information on the Ballina Festival, go to ballinacountrymusic.com.

SENIORS \\OCTOBER, 2018

PUZZLES

T R A O M B

S C I S F I E

C M L E A A N

C O P R A E T

E I P R O E

I T T Y O D

Y G M P E P

O L E E A T

QUICK CROSSWORD

Solution opposite

Fit the words into the grid to create a ﬁnished crossword

WORDFIT

O P E N L Y

Good 23 Very Good 31 Excellent 38+

J B A D O N A I T T Y O D R G I S T I C R I G E D S K I T

DEATH BINDER INTO JAR MOD KINGS HOMELIEST

I A L

H R

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.

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

E T

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

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

584

SUDOKU

WORD GO ROUND

TODAY

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

ache acre arch carat care caret cart carte cater cere cert char chart chat cheat cheater cheer cheetah chert crate create each earache echt erect etch etcher hatch HEARTACHE hectare race reach react retch reteach teach teacher tech terce trace trachea tracheae

H A

TRIO

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

WORD GO ROUND

E A

ALPHAGRAMS

3 LETTERS DOE ELM ERR FOG GEL GNU GOD GOO HUG IMP ION LOT ODD SET SOU TEA TRY WOO 4 LETTERS ADDS AGUE AMMO ARCS

ARIA CLEF DIRT EDGY EKED EWER FORM FREE HALO HAMS HERD INNS IRON ITEM KIRK LAME LARD MERE OAKS OSLO PUNS RUSE SIKH SING SOFA

TOUR

QUIZ

5 LETTERS CHART DREAD EPEES GEESE

1. In what year did the Australian government discontinue the awarding of imperial honours? 2. Who famously said: “An army marches on its stomach”? 3. What does the DC stand for in Washington DC? 4. “The liberty Bell” march was used as a theme tune for which TV series? 5. In 1918 in Britain, women over what age were conditionally given the vote: 21, 25 or 30? 6. Who had a 1966 UK No.1 hit with These Boots are Made for Walking? 7. What did Wilhelm Röntgen discover to help medical science? 8. Which shaggy, horned wild cattle live in the Tibetan mountains?

6 LETTERS CAUSES MEAGRE PETITE SAFARI SLEUTH THANKS 8 LETTERS APERITIF ARMCHAIR DULCIMER FOOTWEAR PARALLEL TWILIGHT

QUIZ G H T O U R D G Y

J B A D O N A

R U S E

C O T P H L E

I N N S

I N T F O T U T

A G U E

S D E R

P E T I T E

R G E D

A D D S

S T H E I

F R E E

R N O B L B O Y

O A K S

A L

R E S A P L U

S L E U T H

I T

O D D S O U L E L O C A D I R A R M C P E E S E A R R D G I S E TW I L I O N F O G

S K

F V O C R

I T E M M E R E P A R A L G O C H A R T L A M E E E L M F O O TW H E S A F A R I R O N K I R K H A M S

X E O R

A S T A C

WORDFIT

S E R A S E N

I S C

1. 1992, 2. Napoleon, 3. District of Columbia, 4. Monty Python’s Flying Circus, 5. 30, 6. Nancy Sinatra, 7. X-rays, 8, Yaks.

R G

Across: 1. Periodic 7. Abate 8. Unfounded 9. Nor 10. Elan 11. Assent 13. Consciousness 15. Bandit 16. Brim 18. Tie 20. Maintains 21. Rally 22. Inspired. Down: 1. Pause 2. Refrain 3. Onus 4. Indisposition 5. Faint 6. Decrees 7. Adverse 12. Economy 13. Captors 14. Earlier 15. Belly 17. Mused 19. Stop.

C A S A T L O O

JIGGERED

G P E R

Down 1. Hesitate (5) 2. Hold back (7) 3. Responsibility (4) 4. Illness (13) 5. Indistinct (5) 6. Edicts (7) 7. Unfavourable (7) 12. Frugality (7) 13. Jailers (7) 14. Previously (7) 15. Stomach (5) 17. Contemplated (5) 19. Halt (4)

TRIO: AlI

E N C G L

Across 1. Happening at regular intervals (8) 7. Lessen (5) 8. Unsubstantiated (9) 9. Neither (3) 10. Panache (4) 11. Agreement (6) 13. Awareness (13) 15. Brigand (6) 16. Lip (4) 18. Bind (3) 20. Continues (9) 21. Recovery (5) 22. Outstanding (8)

SUDOKU

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

ALPHAGRAMS

1/10

HATED, INBRED, JANITOR, KINGDOMS, lITHESOME.

JIGGERED