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2000: Kevin Coombs carries the torch at the opening of Sydney’s Paralympic Games
KEVIN COOMBS OAM
Still throwing goals for indigenous Australians. The first indigenous athlete to represent Australia in Paralympic or Olympic games talks about his journey as a sportsman, political influencer and hopes for the future.
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INDEX 4 14 16 23 33 36 38 43
Treasures in spotlight
Feature – David Williamson Cover Story – Kevin Coombs Community Notes Wanderlust Wellbeing Living Money Puzzles
Geoff Crockett Seniors Guest Editor
34 Fascinating personal stories shared in new book.
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Welcome to the March editions of Seniors News. Our intrepid editor Gail Forrer is off on a month’s leave, which means I have the chance to guest edit for a few weeks and try not to break anything while she’s gone. Luckily for me our writers have been busy and there are plenty of great stories to share. Tracey Johnstone had the opportunity to chat to Kevin Coombes (AO) about his remarkable journey through life and his ongoing passion for education and reconciliation between Australia’s first people and the broader community. She also caught up with national treasure, playwright David Williamson (AO), who has announced he is retiring from the theatre after 50 years to spend more time with his family, including five children and 14 grandchildren. His is an amazing story
of dedication to his craft, and his body of work will live on forever. On the travel front, Erle Levey spent time in Hobart and came back with some great tips for anyone else looking to visit the city in the future, and Kerry Heaney shines a spotlight on the Stanthorpe region. She highlights the opportunity to be part of the Apple and Grape Festival – although you’ll need to be quick. If you’re looking for ways to connect with your fellow seniors in the region, be sure to turn to our community notes pages where you’ll find a wide array of groups and activities planned for the month ahead where anyone is welcome to come along. Also, check out the Wellbeing, Living and Money sections this month for great tips on topics including eye health, boosting your superannuation and how to avoid scammers. I hope you enjoy this month’s read. Geoff
SENIORS
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 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 “Sunshine Coast Seniors Newspaper”. The Seniors Newspaper is published monthly and distributed free in southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales. The Seniors newspaper stable includes Toowoomba, Wide Bay, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Northern NSW, Coffs and Clarence and Central Coast publications. Published by News Corp Australia. Printed by News Corp Australia, Yandina. Opinions expressed by contributors to Seniors Newspapers are not necessarily those of the editor or the owner/publisher and publication of advertisements implies no endorsement by the owner/publisher. Responsibility for election material in this paper is taken by Gail Forrer, cnr Mayne Road & Campbell Street, Bowen Hills, QLD 4006.
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Outstanding senior changing young lives TRACEY JOHNSTONE
AUSTRALIA’S most outstanding senior in 2020 is West Australian obstetrics specialist Professor John Newnham (AM). The 67-year-old’s worldrecognised work is in changing the lives of mothers and infants by preventing preterm birth. It is the single greatest cause of lifelong disability and death in children up to age five. About 8 per cent of nonindigenous Australian babies are born pre-term. For indigenous people, that rate is close to double. Professor Newnham has dedicated his career to achieving a brighter future for babies by ensuring preterm birth becomes a na-
tional priority in Australia. In accepting his award during the celebration of the 60th year of the Australian of the Year awards, Professor Newnham said as an obstetrician he had had the privilege of caring for women with complicated pregnancies and sick babies before they are born. “As a young medical student, I became fascinated by life before birth and how little was known about events before birth and how they may impact on our health and disease throughout the rest of our lives,” he said. “Perhaps of most importance is that consequence of life being cut too short, too early; this is pre-term birth. “Until recently, it was thought pre-term birth could not be prevented. However,
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Masterful Williamson takes curtain call on high Tracey Johnstone
COASTING IN COMFORT: Retiring Australian playwright David Williamson relaxing at his Sunshine Beach home with his wife, Kristin. Picture: Paul Smith
SOS
FOR 50 years playwright David Williamson (AO) has had his hand on the pulse of Australian society, crafting a plethora of memorable creative memories. Remember Don’s Party? What about The Removalists, The Club, the film Gallipoli or the Phar Lap screenplay? Even now he has a burst of plays happening, including Family Values, playing in Sydney. In celebration of Williamson’s 50 years in Australian theatre, a revival of the hit 1987 play Emerald City is jointly being produced by the Melbourne Theatre Company and Queensland Theatre. At another Sydney venue is his latest work, Crunch Time, which is on until early April, when it moves north
to its Queensland premiere in Noosa in mid-April. But now the writing pen lies dormant on his desk. No more plays. No more films. No more television miniseries. The time has come for Williamson, 78, to pack away his shingle and travel a different journey. There is still plenty of Australian life that he could showcase, but Williamson is adamant it won’t happen through his pen. Since 1970 Williamson has pursued his dream to introduce to audiences his flawed characters through his stories, which, as former Ensemble Theatre artistic director Sandra Bates writes, can through their actions achieve his dream of “ … a desire for a better society, a more tolerant society …” As one lanky leg crosses over the other, Williamson
relaxes in a Sydney coffee shop at the base of the tower that houses his second home, and says: “Thankfully there is a whole generation of new writers who are tackling these issues. They can take it on. “I care about the future of the world, but I will have to leave it to others.’’ His first-performed play was The Coming of Stork in 1970 at La Mama in Melbourne. The journey to that point was convoluted. In his early teens Williamson’s father, who for 47 years worked in a job he hated, told the young fellow he should make sure he worked in something he really wanted to do. Williamson’s mechanical engineering degree at Monash University certainly didn’t captivate him. But what did catch his interest was writing the “pretty
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playwright signing off rough” engineering and university student reviews. He went back to university for another stint, this time doing a psychology degree. His final year of studying social psychology prepared him for taking his keen interest in human behaviour and turning it into a valuable tool in his creative future. “I couldn’t have cared less why a car worked; I was much more interested in how a human worked,” he said. Williamson became hooked on theatre. He took himself to see many different plays and found himself completely enfolded in drama. And as they say, the rest is history.His last work, the play Crunch Time, has just had its Sydney premiere at the Griffin Theatre, where his first play was performed. Crunch Time is due to have its Queensland premiere in Noosa in mid-
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April. In this play Williamson has created Steve, a typical Aussie bloke with a not so unusual dilemma. He’s just retired, handing over the reins of his business to one son. Is this a sign of favouritism? Could this action drive deeper the sense of sibling rivalry between his two sons? His other son hasn’t spoken to Steve for almost eight years. What follows is rivalry, illness, a father’s dream, the chance to repair broken relationships, and jealousy. “These issues do come to mind when you get older,” said Williamson, who looked closely at what is happening to the people around him. “It’s about family and a father who is approaching death. This family, driven apart by sibling rivalry, comes from observing friends. Luckily there’s been no such thing in our family, at least to date,” he adds with something of a smile.
“It’s a stressful business but one I have loved being in. Writing, getting the script right, and then right through to opening night. I could do without that.’’ “It’s been thoroughly enjoyable. I have had 50 terrific years in the theatre.’’ The three plays being performed now are all booking well so “getting out now while people are still coming” seems to be a good idea to Williamson. That quiet smile returns when he continues: “I don’t want to be wandering around at 98 wondering why there is no one in the theatre.’’ So, what will he do? Well, he says there are plenty of things to do to fill in his retirement. There are five children and 14 grandchildren to keep him and his wife, Kristin, busy. Williamson will continue to split his time between the family home at Sunshine Beach on the Sunshine Coast
Williamson with The Advertiser journalist Stan James and TV presenter Jan Beasley in December 1992. Picture: Contributed
and the apartment in Sydney, which is close to two of his children. Then there is lots of reading to catch up on and enjoying watching other people’s work on the stage and in film. A memoir, perhaps? It’s a strong possibility. Summing up his
incredible 50 years in Australian theatre, Williamson casts his mind to Albert Facey’s book A Fortunate Life. “I can say I have had a fortunate life.” – Crunch Time is at The J Theatre in Noosa on April 16-17 at 7.30pm, and April 18
at 2pm and 7.30pm. The play is a fundraiser for NOOSA alive! 2020, with Williamson donating royalties from Crunch Time to the festival. Tickets are $65 adults, with $60 concession for matinee. To book, visit http://www .noosaalive.com.au or phone 5329 6560.
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50 years’ service to seniors GEOFF CROCKETT
Suncare Community Services celebrates 50 years of operation. Suncare members Russell Mason, Marion Pennisi, Lyndon Davis and Sara Walker celebrate the day.
STAFF, customers, volunteers and local dignatries turned out in force to mark the beginning of celebrations as Suncare Community Services celebrates its 50th year. CEO Russell Mason told a crowd of about 150 people the event was a chance to say thank you to those who had worked hard to build the service from its beginnings as Meals on Wheels Maroochydore in 1970 to today’s organisation with more than 350 employees and 3000 customers. Mr Mason paid tribute to the founders of the organisation and the dedicated staff who delivered every day on the vision of “making people’s lives better”. He also launched a commemorative book that honours the 50-year history of the organisation by sharing stories of customers
A crowd of about 150 turned out to help Suncare launch its 50th anniversary celebrations at Maroochydore.
who have been involved on the journey. Mr Mason said Suncare would continue to grow in 2020 and to look for new and innovative ways to provide the best service possible to its customers, making the most of digital innovation along the way. Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson officially launched the celebrations, praising those present for taking the lofty aspiration of looking after people in the community and actually
caring enough to find ways to make it happen every day. Suncare Community Services has grown from its Maroochydore beginnings to now offer a wide range of personal in-home services along with community centre based activities for seniors at the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Gympie, Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Hervey Bay and North Lakes. For more on the commemorative book or Suncare, visit suncare.org.au.
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Perfect match is found Social badminton proves winner with wide variety of seniors for fun and games Tracey Johnstone REMEMBER your family parties and holidays when the old badminton set was dragged out of the garage and the laughter from trying to beat an old foe was all part of the fun? Well, now you can do it all again. The pace of the play may be slower as joints before points is the priority, but the laughter and chatter remain lively. Joining the Sunshine Coast Badminton Association’s Seniors Group is all the rage. Group leader Tony Allen says there are players from age 56 to 81 taking to the court at 9am each Monday for two hours of social games in the Badminton Hall, which is in the Nambour Showgrounds. It’s affordable, too, at $5 a session and just $10 for annual membership. No experience in playing
COURTING FUN: Members of the Sunshine Coast Badminton Association’s Seniors Group.
badminton is required and when you start a racquet is provided until you buy your own. White-soled exercise shoes are recommended for play on the indoor courts. “We always play doubles as it’s much easier for our
age to cover the court,” Tony said. “You need to be mobile but don’t need to run around as such. You need to be reasonably fit. “Most people know their limitations and play to those limitations. “We have about half a
dozen reasonable players, while the rest are there for a hit and a giggle.” Tony says badminton is an easy game to play; a lot easier than tennis and much easier than squash. The former motor trade worker played badminton
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SENIORS
Election hopefuls to speak THE Cooroy Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Meet the Noosa Council Candidates on March 17, from 6-8.30pm, at the Cooroy Memorial Hall, 23 Maple Street, Cooroy. This is an opportunity for residents to get to know each Noosa Shire candidate ahead of the election on March 28. Each candidate will be given three and a half minutes to address the audience before questions from the floor. The meeting will be hosted by professional facilitator Richard Hansen. Those candidates confirmed as participating are: Tony Wellington, Clare Stewart, Nathanael Ford, Amelia Lorentson, Andrew Squires, Alan Lander, David Fletcher, Julien Cahn, Janet Kake, Karen Cook-Langdon, Phillip Moran, Tom Wegener, Meghan Halverson and Brian Stockwell.
We believe lives are for living Carinity Home Care helps seniors across Queensland live full and independent lives in the comfort of their own homes and local communities, every day. We offer a full range of services from basic support to keep you healthy and safe at home, assisting with personal and nursing care, and getting you out and about. Our locally-based teams make it a priority to really listen and understand your individual needs and interests, and work with you to develop a tailored solution. Whatever you want to get out of life, we’ll work with you to make it happen.
Call us today on 1300 109 109 or email homecare@carinity.org.au Visit CarinityHomeCare.org.au HC013-1119 SESE01Z01MA - V1
In tune with your needs Regis’ Lifestyle Program has daily activities that enable residents to continue with their life skills and interests whilst having the opportunity to discover new interests and talents. We are constantly looking at new innovative therapies and activities that ensure residents are engaged and connected to each other, their families and the local community. With homes in Kuluin, Maroochydore and Sippy Downs, come see for yourself Regis’ unique program which helps residents to continue to connect with life.
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What’s on TRACEY JOHNSTONE
GREAT GATSBY! F. SCOTT Fitzgerald’s masterpiece and adapted by Australian playwright Barry Lowe is on at the historic Buderim War Memorial Hall on March 27, 28 and April 3, 4 at 7.30pm and Sat at 2pm. The Buderim School of Arts production will feature a live band, singing and dancing. Go to batstheatre.com. Tickets $30, $26 senior.
TRAINFEST THIS could be last time train enthusiasts will see a Moreton Mill steam loco and diesel loco on the same track when TRAINfest happens on March 14. Petrie is moving to the new Tramway terminus so it’s a great chance to have a party to farewell her. Get up close with the Nambour Museum trains at 16 Mitchell St, Nambour, 9am-3pm. Tickets $5, $1 child. Go to nambourmuseum.org.au.
A LIFE IN PATCHES ON AT the Noosa Regional Gallery until March 8, the Wallace House Quilters’ A Life in Patches shares the stories of its members in this extraordinary social history exhibition. Each woman’s stories are suspended in fabric. Open Tues to Fri, 10am-4pm, weekends 10am-3pm, at 9 Pelican St, Tewantin.
FIREYS’ BENEFIT BUDERIM’S Male Choir together with Sunshine Brass are conducting a Firefighters’ Benefit Concert on March 15 at the Beerwah Community Hall. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Beerwah and District Rural Fire Brigade. It starts at 2pm and costs $20, which includes afternoon tea.
GROUPS FOR HEALTH AND WELLBEING RELATIONSHIPS Australia
GOOD CAUSE: The Sunshine Brass and Buderim Male Choir are raising funds for the Beerwah firefighters.
Queensland is trialling this program helping older people increase their social connections. The fivesession program is aimed at people aged 55+, or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, who are concerned about social disconnectedness. The program includes hands-on activities for people to chat about existing relationships
and social identities, skills and knowledge building about your social connections and building new ones, group discussions in a supportive environment with two facilitators, and you will be invited to complete two research surveys and an interview. On from 10am-12pm March 12, 20, 26 and April 2 and 30 at Relationships Australia QLD,
Suite 20, 27 Evans St, Maroochydore.
CERAMICS AT CALOUNDRA STUNNING works from one of the Sunshine Coast’s most accomplished ceramicists Johanna DeMaine is on display at the Caloundra Regional Gallery until April 26. Covering five decades of practice, it includes early
functional ware, the decorative and ornamental, through to recent works incorporating new techniques and imagery that combine the influences of the Sunshine Coast and Japan. Entry is free. Open 10am-4pm weekdays and 10am-2pm weekends. Go to gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.go v.au/Exhibitions/JohannaDemaine.
HOW SPIRITUAL PERCEPTION BRINGS HEALING
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Are you willing to challenge your world view as entirely molecule based and soulless, and be open to see the world as spiritually based? Are you ready to experience how this change in perspective brings inner peace and healing? Then you’re ready to learn about Christian Science! THIS ONE-HOUR TALK, FOLLOWED BY Q&A , IS SPONSORED BY THE MEMBERS OF FIRST CHURCH OF CHRIST, SCIENTIST, SUNSHINE COAST
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Advance Care Planning Week 23–27 March 2020 Learn about advance care planning (ACP) and empower yourself to make your future health care wishes known.
Advance care planning is the process of thinking about and communicating your preferences for future health care. Advance care plans are used in a situation where you are unable to speak for yourself, for example, if you are ill or injured.
What do you do now? Discuss your wishes, values, beliefs and health care preferences with your family, friends and health care providers. Make choices about your future health care and quality-of-life. Download advance care planning documents from mycaremychoices.com.au and document your choices. Your GP or family/friends can assist you. Send copies of your completed documents to the Office of ACP: • Email: acp@health.qld.gov.au • Fax: 1300 008 227 • Post: PO Box 2274, Runcorn Qld 4113 Contact the Office of ACP for more information or support on 1300 007 227. * You can also upload your ACP documents to your My Health Record.
The Office of Advance Care Planning – Queensland Health, provides a free and confidential service to all Queenslanders. • The Office of ACP receives and reviews completed ACP documents from all care environments in Queensland. • Effective documents are uploaded to the Queensland Health electronic medical record and accessed by doctors when needed.
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Unwavering Work for indigenous causes inspires Tracey Johnstone
VOICE FOR CHANGE: Kevin Coombs (OAM) has been speaking up for the rights of disabled Aboriginal people since the early 1980s. Picture: Contributed
WHEN a journalist described indigenous paraplegic Kevin Coombs’s childhood accident as fortunate, the initial reaction was a fiery slapdown, but then he started to look back. The Wotjobaluk elder’s voice for indigenous recognition wouldn’t have been sought out. “The late Charlie Perkins wanted a disabled bloke who could talk a bit,” Uncle Kevin said. “He said, ‘I understand there is a bloke in Melbourne by the name of Kevin Coombs; I want him’. This was when he was secretary of Aboriginal Affairs in Canberra.” Uncle Kevin was appointed in 1981 as the Aboriginal representative on a committee for the International Year of Disabled Persons. There were 14 people on the committee, all representing different groups. As a result of that working group Uncle Kevin said: “I wanted to get the message through to Aboriginal people what they were entitled to, including grants (under the disability scheme).’’ Speaking to the then minister for health in Victoria, Bill Borthwick, Uncle Kevin also articulated the need for Aboriginal people to be involved in decision-making around the wellbeing of the Aboriginal communities. Mr Borthwick
subsequently opened the door for Uncle Kevin to move from the Department of Aboriginal Affairs to the Department of Health. “I was there for 21 years,” he said. “My job was to get hospitals, where there was a lot of Aboriginal people coming in, to have a liaison person working there. We started off with eight for the whole of Victoria.” For his family He might not have been in the Pink Pussycat pub in Melbourne that night more than 50 years ago when he saw and fell in love at first sight with his wife, Linda. They had two daughters – one is a magistrate and the other a vocal advocate for a Victorian Treaty. The First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria held its first meeting last December. The assembly will decide, alongside the Victorian Government, the ground rules for the treaty negotiations. “I support it,” Uncle Kevin said. “It’s not about me, it’s for our kids and grandkids. “I would like to see a treaty here in Victoria. I would like to see being recognised by the federal government in the Constitution.” Will anything change? As to a change at the federal level within his lifetime and actionable outcomes from Closing the Gap, Uncle Kevin doesn’t think anything will happen unless there is a “radical PM”.
The Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians Ken Wyatt (AM) announced on February 6 that the Government “is committed to recognising indigenous Australians in the Constitution and will hold a referendum should a consensus be reached, and should it be likely to succeed”. Previously he had signalled wanting a national vote by mid-2021. Only a few days later, on February 12, at the tabling to Parliament of the 12th Closing the Gap Report, Prime Minister Scott Morrison signalled his unwillingness to lock in a specific time commitment, saying: “I am not going to allow any timetables to prevent the successful achievement of this result.’’ So, where does that leave indigenous Australians? On May 26, 2017, The Uluru Statement from the Heart was made. Turning to the Federal Government, it stated: “We call for the establishment of a First Nations Voice enshrined in the Constitution.’’ While the conversation continues at the federal level, alongside Victoria, which is recognised as the leader in the charge forward to reconciliation, Queensland and the Northern Territory are pressing ahead on their journey towards reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
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voice of Kevin Coombs ‘‘
I wanted to get the message through about what Aboriginal people were entitled to. As for the other states, there appear to be mixed commitments to turning the conversation around statebased treaties into action. “One treaty for the state?” Uncle Kevin said. “It won’t change me, but it will be good for my grandkids and great-grandkids.” Sporting chance At 18 the wheelchair basketball athlete headed to Rome to compete in his first Paralympic Games. Uncle Kevin was representing Australia, but had to travel on an honorary British passport. “We weren’t recognised as we didn’t get our rights until 1967; it’s not that long ago.” It was not until 1973 that Gough Whitlam’s Labor government actively assumed responsibility for Aboriginal affairs. Uncle Kevin remembers missing the 1964 Games as he was “chasing women” at the time, but then went on to compete for Australia in the 1968, 1972, 1980 and 1984 Paralympic Games, the Commonwealth Games in New Zealand in 1974 and at two world championships. Hopeful future The body is weary, but
PROUD MOMENT: Wheelchair basketballer Kevin Coombs at the opening ceremony of the 1960 Paralympic Games.
the mind is sharp. At age 79, Uncle Kevin hasn’t quite retired. He’s left behind his 17-year role as an elder with the Koori courts, but he remains on the Melbourne University Murumbarak Committee, which supports Aboriginal
students, the Poche Centre for Indigenous Health committee, and at the Broadmeadows TAFE where he brings a voice of reason and understanding as an elder, watching over the indigenous students. “You get to see kids go
through and come out successful,” he said. Changing the way older non-indigenous Australians see the First Peoples is something Uncle Kevin thinks can be achieved through knowledge. As Mr Morrison said in his
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Closing the Gap speech to Parliament in February: “We must see the gap we wish to close not from our viewpoints, but from the viewpoint of indigenous Australians before we can hope to close it and make a real difference.’’
Picture: Contributed
Uncle Kevin believes that by sitting down and talking to Aboriginal people, seniors can help to lead a change in the Closing the Gap conversation in Australia. “Talking is a wonderful thing,” he enthused. “You get to know people better.”
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Community group guide
SENIORS
Community notes
TO ALLOW for readers’ requests for the publication of more neighbourhood news, please keep notices short (100 word max). If you would like to submit a photo ensure it is at least 180dpi or 500kb to 1mb in size and of faces. Email editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au.
REMEMBERING CLOUDLAND BALLROOM DO YOU have fond memories of days or nights at Cloudland? Were you a youth of the 1950’s, 60’s, 70’s or early 80’s who grew up in South East Queensland? We are celebrating the memory of Cloudland Ballroom through the eyes of those who went there, by creating a montage of filmed interviews with members of the public willing to share their thoughts of what Cloudland meant to them. The completed montage will be forwarded to the Queensland State library archives for historical reference and screened preshow at the Premiere of Cloudland the Musical at the Events Centre on Saturday, May 23. Members of the public are invited to attend our filming day for the Sunshine Coast region at: CCSA Hall, Nutley Street Caloundra on Sunday, April 19 between 1-4pm. This is a free community event open anyone, interviews will be conducted individually, in the privacy of a closed space on a first come first served basis. Go to facebook.com/ cloudlandthemusical.
MANAGING ANXIETY WORKSHOPS LEARN how to manage anxiety in your life. Over 4 weeks learn about why we worry, what causes our
anxiety to increase, ways to manage symptoms of anxiety, and plan for future life without overwhelming worry. This free course will be held at Noosa Community Health starting Thursday, March 5. Bookings are essential, limited places. Phone 07 5449 5944.
SUNSHINE 60 AND BETTER GROUP HAVE you heard of our group? It’s a place to keep the mind and body active for people over 45 years of age. The group is a not-for-profit organisation that offers its members fun activities and a social and friendly gathering place. Membership is only $15 a year with most activities costing a small fee (usually $4 or $5) per session. Activities include: Trivia, a variety of Games, Guest Speakers, Bus Trips and Social Events. We run activities in Buddina, Coolum, Gympie, Nambour and Caloundra. Men and Women are invited to join us. You can even bring a friend along. Fun and companionship is the main focus, a place where you can feel you belong. Discover new skills and build friendships as you learn. Phone 07 5444 5833 or go to sunshine60.org.au.
SCONE TIME AT BANKFOOT HOUSE ALREADY a red hot success in Montville and Cooroy, Bankfoot House Heritage
MYSTERY TOUR: Bus driver Andrew from Tropical Coast Tours transported 36 Kawana Waters Probus club members on a mystery bus trip to Cherbourg.
Precinct is thrilled to bring Scone Time to the Glass House Mountains on Thursday, March 5 from 10am to noon. Heritage Portfolio Councillor Rick Baberowski said Scone Time was a perfect way to bring the community together and see an exceptional bit of our heritage at the same time. At Bankfoot House Heritage Precinct, 1998 Old Gympie Road, Glass House Mountains. Cost: $8, includes morning tea of scones with tea or freshly brewed coffee. Bookings: heritage.sunshinecoast.qld.g ov.au/en/Programs-andEvents/Scone-Time.
CALOUNDRA BLUE CARE AUXILLIARY WE INVITE you to come ‘cruising down the river’, when we hold our first fund raiser for the year. This will be a Coach trip from Caloundra – trvelling to Noosa where we will enjoy a cruise down the Noosa River – enjoying one of our legendary home cooked
morning teas. This will be followed by a fish and chips lunch on Noosa beach. A great day out on Tuesday, March 10. The all inclusive cost of this day will be $80 and we will be leaving the Blue Care Centre in West Ter (opposite the RSL) at 8.45am sharp, and expect to be home around 3.30pm. Tickets are limited so make sure you book yours early – phone Gloria 07 5492 3318 or the Blue Care centre 07 5438 5000. In April we will be holding an Easter Fashion parade in the Caloundra Uniting Church hall on Thursday, April 2 at 9am.The Hall is under the Caloundra Uniting Church on Cnr. Queen & Ulm Streets.
BUDERIM GARDEN CLUB OUR next monthly meeting is on Friday, March 13 at the Memorial Hall, Buderim at 1.30pm for 2pm start. The special guest speaker is Anne Sutherland, sharing the Bankfoot House story. All the usual highlights of the
meeting will be in place Flower/foliage/photography competitions, plant sales, lucky door prize, raffles. The meeting concludes with a scrumptious afternoon tea on the verandah. Go to buderimgardenclub.com or phone John 0448 714 561.
ANIMAL RESCUE CONCERT THE Sunshine Coast’s big band, SCREAM, are playing an Animal Rescue Concert at the Maleny Primary School Auditorium, Bunya Street Maleny on Sunday, March 29 at 2pm. Tickets are $15 at the door. Please bring cash. Easy parking and wheelchair access. Enjoy this Big band jazz on the mountain experience. Phone 0434 675 529. For more about SCREAM, email screambigband@gmail.com.
CALOUNDRA FAMILY HISTORY RESEARCH WHETHER you are a beginner or have been researching your descendants for years, there
is always something to learn and be amazed by the knowledge of the monthly guest speakers and the group outings to local museums and libraries. Open Thurs and Sat at 9am12.30pm for people who want to use our resources (library, computers and onsite expert advice). Go to caloundrafamily history.org.au or phone Cathy Meyer on 0411 881 745.
VINNIES BOOK AND PLANT SALE ST VINCENT DE PAUL will once again be holding a huge election weekend book and plant sale at The Good Shepherd Centre, Nanyima St, Buddina on Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28 from 8am-3.30pm and Sunday, March 29 from 9am-2pm. For all avid readers, there will be a great selection of new and preloved fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, DVDs. You PAGE 17
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will also find a large range of beautiful plants. This will be great for anyone starting up their garden or just adding to it. Donations of books, plants and pots would be greatly appreciated. There will be something for everyone in the family, so come along to meet our friendly and hardworking volunteers and grab yourself a bag full of bargains. Phone Maria on 07 5478 2954.
POMONA RAILWAY STATION GALLERY CALL for artists – Art in the Paddock. The Pomona Railway Gallery is once again having our fabulous Easter Art in the Paddock event. All art can be purchased for around the $100 mark. We are now calling on artists and crafts people to register their interest in having a stall. On Saturday, April 11 from 9am-1pm at the Pomona Railway Station Gallery. Go to pomonartgallery.com/artmarkets or phone Alan Falls on 0407 119 858.
BUDERIM LIBRARY BOOK SALE THE Buderim library is
holding a monster book sale on Easter Saturday, April 11 from 8am-2pm. The Library relies on donations of books, in good condition, for this sale. Fiction, non-fiction, art & craft, music, war, sport, history, children’s, biography, classics, and poetry books are all acceptable. Any donations would be greatly appreciated. Anyone wishing to donate books can leave them at the Library, 3 Main St, Buderim, during opening hours, 9.30am2.30pm Mon to Fri, 9am12noon on Sat. Phone 07 5456 1797.
U3A SUNSHINE Coast U3A Choir is holding its annual concert on Sunday, March 29 at Buderim Memorial Hall, corner of Church St and 1 Main St, Buderim. Supported by U3A Tap Dancers, the performance is sure to be a favourite with a top variety of old and modern favourites. From 2pm-4pm with tickets available for $15 at the door (cash sales please). Afternoon tea is provided. 10 or more for our special group ticket price. Phone Jill on 0402 328 993.
PROBUS CLUBS Buderim East MEMBERS, visitors and guests were welcomed by President Marilyn Keelty to the February meeting. The 10 minute speaker was Klaus Hempfing who was inducted into the club in 1992. The vice-president Brian Salter was the guest speaker. Brian’s previous career was in Forestry Management and he presented his talk on bush fires covering the recent bush fires, management, preventative measures and recovery after the devastation. This was very well received by all in attendance. After the meeting members enjoyed lunch at the Buderim Tavern. Coffee n Chat was at the Groove Train in the Kawana. We meet on the second Tuesday of each month at the Waterfront Hotel, Diddillibah at 10am. Phone Brian Salter on 0427 286 035. Buderim Mountain WE PRIDE ourselves on having a variety of guest speakers each month. Our club meets every second Monday of the month 9.30am at the Buderim Bowls Club, Elizabeth St. Following the meeting we
DINNER AND DRINKS: Carol Kahl, Betty Bree, Fleur Morrisey, Carole Ireland and Chris Keates enjoy pre-dinner drinks at the Caloundra VIEW Club dinner.
celebrate members birthdays and anniversaries with lunch at The Headlands Golf Club. Phone Evelyn on 07 54771 218. Caloundra 86 THE Club’s first day outing was to the Life Flight Hanger at Maroochydore Airport where we were given a presentation on the work of this vital service and saw new doctors in training on a helicopter. This was
followed by lunch at Ricks Garage Diner at Palmwoods. The club is an active fun loving mixed group of retired and semi-retired seniors who would welcome new members to join them. Phone Membership Officers Dorothy and Bill on 07 5492 6721. Coolum Beach FOR the retired and semi retired .We have organised outings and Guest Speakers
each month . Our next Meeting is on Tuesday, March 3 at 9.15am and held at the Uniting Church 22 Elizabeth St, Coolum Beach. Phone 0429 516 788 or 0401 976 062. Kawana Waters OUR Club is off to a flying start with four new members being inducted at our February General
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COMMUNITY
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SENIORS
BIG SMILES: Four happy Probus Club of Caloundra 86 members with a Life Flight pilot at Maroochydore Airport.
Taoist Tai Chi Group is offering complimentary try-it classes at some iconic Sunshine Coast locations to celebrate 50 years of wellbeing and the health benefits of tai chi.
PAGE 17
chair access. Come early, join with some of the singing and support those who need our generous support. Inquiries phone Kevin on 0434 675 529. There’s also a Choral Celebration of Easter Music at 2pm on Sunday, April 5 at Gregson and Weight Memorial Chapel, 159 Wises Road, Buderim. Tickets: adults $25 and students $15. Afternoon tea provided. The audience will be invited to join the choir in singing some of the beautiful Easter music. Free parking and wheel chair access is available. Phone Yvonne on 0431 550 713 or Chris on 07 5478 5546.
WE WILL be hosting a special cultural program on Sunday, March 22. Brisbane based South Indian live Music and Dance troupe performance, ‘In Pursuit of Eternal Bliss’, explores ‘Shanmatham’ – an ancient Vedic philosophy. At North Shore Community Centre, Mudjimba at 1.45pm for a 2pm start. This is a fund raiser concert donated by the performers for the Theosophical Order of Service. Phone 0409 065 062.
CALOUNDRA SENIOR CITIZENS’CLUB
SUNSHINE COAST CHORAL SOCIETY DISASTER Appeal Combined Concert - Sunshine Brass and Sunshine Coast Choral Society are holding a combined Disaster Appeal Concert on Sunday, March 22 at 2pm at Gregson and Weight Memorial Chapel 159 Wises Road, Buderim. Tickets are $15. There’s lots of free parking and wheel
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KAWANA SENIORS WE ARE back in 2020 meeting at the Kawana Library Community Hall every Thursday morning at 9.30am for friendship and meeting new people. Each week we have an entertainer, play Hoy and Bingo, Indoor Bowls plus spin the wheel, lucky door fruit prizes plus meat tray raffles and gifts for Hoy and Bingo wins. We welcome
any seniors looking to enhance their lives with outings and meeting new people. Phone President, Selima Taylor on 07 5452 5979.
April 18, 9.30am-12.30pm at Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden, Tanawa. For more, go to taoisttaichi.org/50Australia.
TAOIST TAI CHI GROUP
CAMEO - Come And Meet Each Other. Come and share a coffee and chat with others at Castello Café Bar in King Street, Buderim. We meet on the fourth Monday of each month, so our next meeting will be March 23. All welcome. Phone 0439 768 394 or email aaugustine5@bigpond.com.
A LOCAL branch of a notfor-profit tai chi group is offering complimentary ‘tryit’ classes in Taoist Tai Chi to celebrate their 50th anniversary. They will be joining a dozen other branches of the Taoist Tai Chi Society of Australia to offer 50 open classes in 50 locations around Australia during 2020. Taoist Tai Chi is designed to offer maximum health benefits and to recover the ancient Taoist methods of ‘internal alchemy’ (internal transformation). The complimentary try-it classes will be offered on: Saturday, March 7, 7.30am-11am at Buhk Family Park (next to the Alex Surf Club). Monday, March 30, 9.30am-12.30pm at Buderim Village Park (Across road from BWMCA Hall), Buderim. Saturday,
CAMEO
BEGINNERS LINEDANCING COME along to Woombye Hall on Mondays at 9am and at Nth Shore Community Centre, Mudjimba on Mondays at 7pm and Wednesdays at 9am. Also Thursdays 9am at Yandina School of Arts Hall. Keep your mind active and body fit with dance. Fun fitness friendship and great music. Phone Barbara on 0407 733 280. PAGE 20
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FOR people over 50 we have a variety of activities. On Mondays: Tai chi exercises, bolivia, 500, whist, indoor bowls. Tuesdays: Tai chi, Latin dancing. Phone Maribel on 07 5492 2805 for details. Wednesdays: Cuppa, music show, MahJong, 500, hoy, indoor bowls. Thursdays: Tai chi exercises. Uniting Church hall 56c Queen St. Phone 07 5438 1403 or email raymoni@optusnet.com.au.
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Meeting at which President, Mike Matthews, presented Phyllis Gerhardt with her Life Membership. Phyllis has been with Kawana for 27 years. Our general meetings are held on the second Tuesdays of the month at Venue 114, Sportsman’s Pde, Bokarina, at 10am. Phone Jan Rowe on 0450 717 447. Tewantin Noosa WE HAVE weekly outings such as coffee mornings, lunches, dinners and visits to places of interest. Something to please everyone and every budget. Meetings are held on the fourth Monday of each month at 9.45am at The Tewantin Noosa RSL. Visitors welcome. A donation of $5 covers morning tea. Our next meeting will be on Monday, March 23. Guest speaker will
be OzHarvest’s Michele Lipner who will talk about eliminating hunger and food waste. Phone Geoff Bailue on 0418 145 034.
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The Caloundra Evening VIEW 2020 Committee Members are L-R: Deborah Peut (Programmes), Bev Walker (vice President),Val Davis( Membership),Sue Meehan (Secretary), May Thomas (President), Beryl Moye (Treasurer), Jeannette Clark (Ass. Secretary), Shirley Leggett (Delegate), Enid Traill (Ass. Treasurer), Glenda Galway.
JAZZ & BLUES COLLECTIVE THE Jazz and Blues Collective invites you to their April 5 event: ‘Estampa’ Gypsy Jazz. Whether you feel the need to dance, or just relax and enjoy the music. ‘Estampa’ is a World Folk Jazz quartet based in Brisbane. On Sunday, May 10 AARON Jansz presents: “The Songbook of Rodgers & Hart”. Both events at the Old Soul Lounge Bar, 19 Ocean St, Maroochydore. Doors open at 1pm. Starts at 2pm4.30pm. Tickets $25. Seniors $22. Phone 0417 633 734.
MOBILITY DANCE CLASSES OUR classes are on again. We are a friendly group, and no experience is needed. We cater for a range of mobility issues and learn seated and standing dance to a range of inspiring music. On Thurs at the Freemasons Hall, North St. Yandina, from 10.30am11.45am. Phone Philippa at Dance for Joy on 0417 780 016.
JOIN us under the shade of the Casuarina trees anytime between 8am- 10am for our dune care activities (planting natives and removing weeds) on March 10 at Beach Access 203 on Pacific Blvd, Buddina. All provisions, tools, plants, conversation and morning tea are provided. We meet on the second Tuesday of each month. Follow us on facebook.com/ Buddinacoastcare/.
BLACKALL RANGE WOODCRAFTERS GUILD INC. MAKE a note in your diary for Saturday, March 21 to visit the Blackall Range Woodcrafters Guild’s Open Day at the Guild’s two big sheds adjacent to the Montville sporting field and tennis court. The Open Day will commence at 9am-1pm. Car parking will be available with assistance given by parking attendants.
QUOTA INTERNATIONAL COOLUM Beach is a group of
NEW TEAM: Buderim VIEW Club held their AGM and pictured are the Committee members for 2020.
motivated women from all walks of life who are interested in helping others in the community. We also participate in fundraising projects, craft mornings, book club, coffee mornings and a busy social calendar. We meet at the Meals on Wheels rooms at 17 Santa Monica Ave, Coolum on the second Tuesday of the month at 2pm. The club will be hosting a Fashion Parade at 10.30am on Saturday, March 21 at Coolum Peregian RSL Club. Fashions by Portofino, $25 pp prepaid. Phone Cindy on 07 5448 8373 for tickets or Sandra on 0427 889 750.
(AIR) NOOSA BRANCH ASSOCIATION of Independent Retirees is the peak National not-for-profit organisation supporting selffunded retirees. Next Meeting: Thursday March 12 at 10am at the South Pacific Resort, 179 Weyba Road, Noosaville. Speaker: Steve Mendl, founder of NextAging and author of the international best-selling book Beyond the Money. Topic: Retirement: it’s not
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just about money. Cost $6 pp Members; $10 pp nonMembers includes morning tea. Phone 0478 479 049.
NOOSA FOLK DANCERS WE ARE a happy, friendly group who meet every Friday at the Uniting Church Hall, 9 Werin St Tewantin 9.30am-11.30am to learn traditional folk dances from around the world. Everyone is welcome, including people with ‘2 left feet’. No prior experience or partners needed, just a willingness to join in, enjoy yourself and above all have fun. Cost $8/ week. Phone Philippa on 0417 780 016.
VIEW CLUBS Buderim OUR club holds their monthly meeting/lunch on the first Wednesday of the month at Buderim Tavern. Any new ladies interested in coming along as a guest and/ or joining the Club are most welcome. This is the Club’s 27th year and apart from raising money for The Smith Family’s Learning For Life (LFL) students. There is also a social event on the third Wednesday of the month. Phone Vice President, Pat Cooney on 07 5445 6329 or email wockagrandy @optusnet.com.au. Caloundra OUR 2020 AGM drew over ninety members to the clubs monthly Dinner at the Caloundra Power Boat Club. Happy chatter filled the room before Dinner, as ladies swapped their holiday stories and renewed friendships. National Councillor Margaret Elliott presided over the election of officers and presented badges to the new Committee. The Club now has 118 members, sponsors nine local students and mentors 20 students at the Golden Beach State School
through the Smith Family’s Learning for Life Program. Phone Secretary, Sue on 0403 504 408 for more. Maroochydore JOIN Kym Stevens, educator, dance artist, dance education researcher and arts collaborator for glimpses of life on board the Endeavour with Captain James Cook. We welcome visitors at Maroochydore Surf Club on Friday, March 27 at 11.30am. Phone Maggie on 0418 793 906.
VIVA ITALIA! THE wine, the food, the people, the language - and the music. The Sunshine Coast Symphony Orchestra’s “Viva Italia!” concert is a celebration of Italian composers. This is the first concert of our 2020 Concert Series, conducted by Adrian King.This is a concert not to be missed. St. Mark’s Anglican Church Buderim at 2pm on Saturday, March 28. Tickets: Adults $20 / at the door $25 / Children under 16 free. Phone 07 5445 3703 or Old Buderim Post Office.
CCTC ONE ACT PLAYS AS PART of the 50th Anniversary celebrations the Caloundra Chorale and Theatre Company will produce two one act plays by acclaimed playwright Alan Bennett. These plays, A Lady of Letters and Her Big Chance, are two of the ground breaking Talking Heads series. Showtimes: preview March 4 at 7.30pm, March 6 and 13 at 7.30pm; March 7, 8, 14 and 15 at 2pm. Venue: CCTC Theatre 3 Piringa St, Wurtulla. Tickets: $25, Conc $24, Members FOC Groups $22. Phone 0490 329 912.
SOCIAL BALLROOM DANCING AT POMONA EVERY Tuesday evening from 7pm-9.30pm Pat and
Norm Young organise a social evening at the Pomona Memorial School of Arts Hall. $4, which includes supper. Everyone is welcome. Phone 0407 456 939.
SUNSHINE COAST CONCERT BAND PRESENTING the March melodies on Saturday, March 14 at 2pm in the Kawana Community hall, Nanyima St, Buddina. Enjoy an afternoon of top entertainment with a great variety of music and talented vocalists under the baton of Music Director Ken Chadwick OAM. Tickets $15 available at the door includes afternoon tea and raffle prizes will be offered. For all future events with the Sunshine Coast Concert Band, go to sccb.org.au.
POMONA & DISTRICT COMMUNITY HOUSE AS PART of Queensland Women’s Week, we invite you to an uplifting evening with debut author of ‘The Changing Room,’ Christine Sykes. Inspired by her role as volunteer stylist helping women to find clothes for work interviews and as a coach for disadvantaged women. Wednesday, March 11 at 5.30pm for a 6.15pm start at Lawson Shed, Memorial Ave, Pomona. $5 includes light refreshments before the presentation. Phone on 07 5485 2427.
SUNSHINE COAST COMPUTER CLUB INC COME as a visitor to a weekly meeting at Buderim or Caloundra and have an introductory chat and see what goes on at a meeting. Have a cup of tea/coffee with our friendly members as a start to getting to know your computer and technology devices. Phone 07 5492 1005 or email sccc@internode.on.net. SESE01Z01MA - V1
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Departs: 8/07/20
Departs: 13/07/20
• 4 Nights Coffs Harbour • Waterfall Way Sightseeing • Dorrigo Rainforest Centre & Skywalk • Trail Bay Gaol, South West Rocks • Bowraville Folk Museum • Harbourside Markets • Butterfly House • Clog Barn
• 3 Nights Albury • Bright Autumn Festival • Benalla Wall Art • Heartbeat of the Murray Laser Show • Silo Art Trail • Grampians Sightseeing • Great Ocean Road & Twelve Apostles • National Wool Musuem, Geelong
• 2 Nights Innamincka & Marree • Cameron Corner • Depot Glen & Pooles Grave • Millparinka • Trilby Station • Burke & Wills Dig Tree • Lake Eyre Sightseeing • Birdsville Pub
• 2 Nights Adels Grove & Longreach • Birdsville Pub • Charleville Bilby Experience • Outback @ Isa Centre • Lawn Hill Gorge • John Flynn Museum, Cloncurry • Stockman’s Hall of Fame • Thomson River Cruise & Dinner
• 3 Nights Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge • Blackwater International Coal Mining Centre • Fairbairn Dam • 2.5 Days Carnarvon Gorge Exploring • Arcadia Valley Escape • Big Rig Roma
Adult: $2198 Single Supplement: $483
Adult: $4726 Single Supplement: $1176
Adult: $5795 Single Supplement: $1129
Adult: $5768 Single Supplement: $1380
Adult: $2798 Single Supplement: $755
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COMPLIMENTARY DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE (Area Conditions Apply)
9 Day Opals, Silver City & Adelaide Departs: 7/8/20
• 2 Nights Bourke & Adelaide • Chambers of the Black Hand • Brewarrina Fish Trap Tour • Pv Jandra Sunset Cruise • Trilby & Dunlop Stations • White Cliffs Guided Tour • Banrock Station • Seppeltsfield Winery Adult: $3760 Single Supplement: $518
FULLY ACCOMMODATED TOURS
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Gorge on ‘backyard’ wonders BRAND INSIGHTS THE start of the year has been a dramatic one and regions we know and love have been touched by drought, fire and flood – all in the space of a few short months. Our tours visit small regional towns with a lot of heart all across Australia and we can’t wait to take our groups into these incredible and resilient communities, at a pace that allows time to really explore. O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat Explore World Heritagelisted Lamington National Park from multiawardwinning O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat nestled in the iconic Gold Coast hinterland. This tour takes you into a magnificent rainforest where you can experience wildlife in its natural habitat. The tour includes three nights in luxury accommodation, morning
bird walks, nature trails and the famed Tree Top Walk. Four days: May 11-14, 2020. Carnarvon Gorge and Wallaroo Tours Enjoy a seven-day escape to the stunning Carnarvon region of southern inland Queensland. We travel through big-sky country and discover some amazing places including Roma, Wallaroo Eco Station, Acadia Station and the scenic Carnarvon Gorge. Seven days: May 18-24, 2020; and August 31September 6, 2020. Outback to Coast – Queensland Tour Explore the best of both worlds in Queensland and discover the region that attracted bush poets such as Banjo Paterson. Witness the awesome bulk of the Texas longhorns and enjoy a traditional stockman’s campfire dinner. Uncover the laid-back village atmosphere of Airlie Beach and indulge in crystal-clear
ROCK ON: Enjoy a seven-day escape to the iconic Carnarvon region of southern inland Queensland.
waters as you cruise the Whitsundays. Twelve days: July 30August 10, 2020. – Coolum Tours and Travel is a Sunshine Coast
company that offers tours in luxury coaches across Australia. Its tours value friendship and community and offer personal, quality experiences.
From warm sandy beaches and blue skies to scorched red earth and beautiful Outback landscapes, comfortably experience the best
Picture: Contributed
Australia has to offer at an affordable price. Book your next touring holiday with Paul and the team at Coolum Tours and Travel: cttravel.com.au/.
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Beach break a slice of haven Tracey Johnstone YOU know you have arrived at your bucket list location when you are greeted with chilled champagne by barefooted waiters on the shores of Queensland’s Whitehaven Beach. Every two years 200 or so lucky souls get to dress in their best, and coolest, white outfits and slip on over to Whitehaven for the enchanting White on Whitehaven Long Lunch by Fish D’vine. Held in early January, a fast ride on a Cruise Whitsunday power catamaran from the Port of Airlie past Daydream and Hamilton islands with the wind in our faces and the perfectly clear-blue water beneath us delivered the enthusiastic guests to the shores of picturesque Whitehaven. Alighting from the transport barge and onto the beach, glittery thongs in one hand and a chilled champagne in the other, we were greeted with the sight of long lunch tables and the promise of a slow-eating, delicious seafood lunch. The vibe was all about having fun in the sun and under the expansive shade of the white tents. It didn’t take long for many of the guests to hit the water, including this writer. No swimsuit? No problems! Just hop in and float away the day between drinks and fresh seafood dishes. Sadly, all good things must come to an end.
Worried about overseas travel??? feel safe and tour at home.
eXPerienCe lonGreaCh & Winton
There’s plenty of fascinating things to see and do in the heart of Qld. Visit the Qantas museum and Stockmans Hall of Fame or Winton — the birthplace of Waltzing Matilda and it’s Age of Dinosaurs Museum. 7 Days from $1,390 including return QLD Pension Rail Fare return in Economy Seat. Upgrade to Sleeper Cabin $1,870 Departing Monthly April to Oct
Departure Dates 2020: 26 June, 24 Aug
CoWboys Caves Castles
SWELL TIME: No swimsuit, no problem at the White on Whitehaven Long Lunch by Fish D’vine. Picture: Tracey Johnstone
By midafternoon we were herded reluctantly back onto the big boat for the trip back to beautiful Airlie Beach. While the guests settled in for an afternoon snooze or more drinks on the voyage home, the Fish D’vine staff stripped the beach of the remnants of our visit, leaving Whitehaven Beach to return to its glorious best. It’s an expensive experience at $388 per person, but when you take into account the cost of a one-hour each-way return trip to the beach, all drinks and sumptuous seafood feast, it’s the sort of event that should be added to your dream list of Queensland experiences.
One of a kind Whitehaven Beach stretches over seven kilometres and boasts brilliant white-silica sand that is among the purest in the world. At the northern end is Hill Inlet, where the tide shifts the sand and water to create a gorgeous fusion of colours. Many people claim Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach are the most beautiful places they’ve ever seen. The lookout at Tongue Point is the best spot from which to view the swirling sands of the inlet, so if you don’t mind a short bushwalk, book your Whitehaven tour with an operator that visits the lookout.
toWnsville anD Cairns Combo
Fabulous Scenic tour departing on the Spirit of Queensland train taking in Townsville, Ferry to Magnetic Island, board Skyrail to Kuranda and Atherton Tablelands and venturing on Daintree River Cruise to Mossman Gorge and Port Douglas. *6 Days tour from only $1340, *8 Days with return rail fare from $1390
This unique tour visits lots of amazing places and attractions. Cowboys at Texas Longhorn Ranch, Historical Charters Towers, Caves at the incredible Undara Lava Tubes and Castle Ruins of Paronella Park. 6 Days tour from $1390, 8 Days with return rail fares from $1440
DisCover CooktoWn
Discover Cooktown on the fantastic tour including Cairns, Port Douglas, Daintree River, Mossman Gorge, 2 Nights in Cooktown, Endevour River Cruise and much more !!! *6 Days tour only $1,490PP T/S *Single / Sole Use add $420 *8 Days with Return Rail Fare QLD Pension Economy Seat $1540 QLD Pension Rail Bed $1890 Seniors Card Economy Seat $1725 Seniors Card Deluxe Rail Bed $2160
Departure Dates 2020: 3rd July, 1st Sep.
norfolk islanD
Discover the Norfolk Island that Colleen McCullough the world renowned author of 24 books called home for almost 36 years and visit her beloved property “out yenna”. 8 Days from $2,895 Departing: 13th October 2020
ChillaGo Caves, Cairns anD Port DouGlas
Depart Brisbane for Cairns Welcome. Visit Historical Herberton Historical Village presenting the story of Australia’s pioneering past. Then Mossman Gorge and Daintree River Cruise. Visit spectacular Chillagoe Caves, Cairns Botanic Gardens and Cairns Aquarium. *6 Days tour only $1390 *Single / Sole Use add $290 *8 Days with Return Rail Fare QLD Pension Economy Seat $1440 QLD Pension Deluxe Rail Bed $1790 Seniors Card Deluxe Rail Bed $2060 Departure Dates: 10th July Ph: 07 5510 8958
“the real” outbaCk sPeCtaCular Dinner With Dinos anD lark Quarry
Longreach the geographical heart of Queensland. Depart Brisbane on the Spirit of the Outback. Welcome BBQ in Longreach, QANTAS Museum, Stockmans Hall of Fame, Thompson River Cruise, Campfire Dinner and Show. Winton, Age of Dinosaurs, Waltzing Matilda Center, 3 Sister and Lark quarry Dino Stampede. *5 Days tour only $1690 *PP T/S - Sole Use Room add $320 *7 Days with Return Rail *QLD Pension Economy Seat $1740 *QLD Pension 1st Class Cabin $2170 *Seniors Card 1st Class Cabin $2410 Departure Dates: 4 July, 12 Sep
herberton > undara lava tubes > Georgetown > forsayth > Cobbold Gorge Croydon > karumba > Cloncurry > mt isa > richmond > Charters towers
best of the north West & mt isa
Ever wanted to experience the Best of North West Outback Queensland but never could manage to get there? Well now is your chance. Visit Herberton Historical Village, Undara Lava Tubes, Georgetown, 190 million year old Cobbold Gorge, Quirky Croydon, Remote Karumba, Cloncurry, Mt Isa and its Mines, Richmond’s Dinosaurs & Charters Towers. *11 Days Tour Only $2890 *Single / Sole Use add $290 *13 Days with return rail fare QlD Pension economy seat $2940 QLD Pension Deluxe Rail Bed $3290 Seniors Card Deluxe Rail Bed $3560 *Departure Dates 2020: 13th June.
wh sa en ve $ dep booki 100 PP Art ng ure Apr il
2020 Departure Date: 22nd July
iConiC Pubs of north QueenslanD
*10 Days* -Depart Brisbane to Cairns on the Spirit of QLD Train – See spectacular scenic destinations whilst visiting well known and historic pubs including the 1878 Court House Hotel, Port Douglas, highest pub in QLD Ravenshoe Hotel, the Iconic *“Pub with no Beer”* Ingham, 1901 Great Northern Hotel, Townsville, Charters Towers 1865 Eureka Hotel *10 Days with Return Rail Fare. QLD Pension Economy Seat $2,040. QLD Pension Deluxe Rail Bed $2,370. Seniors Card Deluxe Rail Bed $2,580 *Departure Dates 2020: 28th April 25th July; 19th Sep*
ContaCt us for a free BroChure Visit www.greatvalueholidays.com.au
Guests settling in for the sumptuous seafood feast, which included drinks, after a catamaran ride to glorious Whitehaven Beach. Picture: Tracey Johnstone V1 - SESE01Z01MA
or phone 1300 722 661 Terms and conditions apply: See website for details.
Our Industry Partner:
7050938ao
Christmas in July murray PrinCess
Step aboard the Murray Princess at the historic riverport of Mannum and you step aboard the grand old lady of the river and into a bygone era. When winter comes around it’s time to break out the mince pies, puddings and Yuletide treats. For those of us in the Southern Hemisphere, that transforms into Christmas in July, snuggled up in the warm cosy lounges of Murray Princess with a mulled wine and great company. 6 Days tour from $2490
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SLICE OF HEAVEN: Kerry Heaney and Shelley Winkel savour a divine Sutton’s apple pie.
Picture: Kerry Heaney
SENIORS
Melissa Thomas at Washpool Skin Wellness, which offers a sensory experience. Picture: Kerry Heaney
Get out into the countryside Granite Belt is inviting guests back to its festival season Kerry Heaney THE fields are green, and the welcome is wide as the Granite Belt opens its arms to invite visitors to enjoy the Stanthorpe Apple & Grape Festival from now until March 8. It’s been two hard years in this 50-kilometre stretch from Stanthorpe to Ballandean with the double whammy of drought followed by bushfires. Finally, in February, the rains came and eased the pressure a little on the limited water resources. Talk to the farmers, producers and winemakers here, and you’ll hear that it’s been tough. However, on the Granite Belt, it is true that when the going gets tough, the tough get going. You won’t find a better time to visit this beautiful patch of country to sample the locals’ food and drink
their wine. At Sutton’s Juice Factory, David and Ros Sutton’s pies are bigger than ever. A slice of their apple pie (it’s big enough for two) will rekindle childhood memories and have you dreaming of apples. It’s the same when you pick your own strawberries at Ashbern Farms and reward yourself with one of the caramel strawberry sundaes. There are 40 cellar doors in this high-altitude region, which ranges from 800 to 1200 metres above sea level. Many, like Robert Channon Wines, have cellar doors where you can taste the full range of wines and chat with the owners and winemakers. Paola’s The Winemaker Kitchen at Robert Channon’s is where Argentinian-born Paola Andrea Cabezas Bono serves up her distinct style of tapas. For another taste and sip of the region, stop at St Jude’s Cellar Door & Bistro at Ballandean, where owner Robert Davidson serves up delicious food and a selection of Sirromet wines. Ridgemill Estate also has an
extensive cellar door and award-winning studio accommodation. At Granite Belt Brewery, owner Geoff Davenport will explain the craft beerbrewing process followed by a tasting paddle in their beer hall. The great outdoors beckons strongly in the Granite Belt, with the wonders of the granitebouldered Girraween National Park high on most travellers’ lists to explore. There are multiple walking tracks, from easy (Bald Rock Creek Circuit and the Granite Arch) to challenging (summit of First Pyramid and the 10tonne balancing boulder). When it’s time to dine, head to Essen, a small restaurant in Stanthorpe, for dinner. Here you’ll enjoy a mix of home-style cooking with an Austrian theme, along with some standout gourmet treats. The Barrelroom at Ballandean is a restaurant inside the winery at Ballandean Estate. Diners sit next to the giant wine barrels and enjoy a local product-focused menu. Wondering what you might bring home from the
Pick your own strawberries at Ashbern Farms and reward yourself with a delicious caramel strawberry sundae. Picture: Kerry Heaney
Granite Belt? A stop at Jamworks Gourmet Foods & Larder will see your larder filled with jams, pickles and relishes. Just walking into Washpool Skin Wellness is a sensory experience. The shop is filled with artisan soaps, lotions and gifts that you will find impossible to resist, plus you can do a soap-making class. Stay a couple of nights at the cute Apple Blossom Cottage in Stanthorpe.
When you leave the region, make a stop at Sam’s Farm Fresh Fruit & Veg to pick up some locally grown produce, including free-range eggs. Find the Granite Belt on the New England Highway just north of the New South Wales border. It’s less than three hours’ drive from Brisbane. What’s on at the Apple and Grape Festival It’s one of Queensland’s
longest-running festivals, and it celebrates the region’s harvest. This year they will also be celebrating a little rain. The fun started on Friday, with a street party followed by busking championships and Banchetto Italiano, a very long, five-course Italian lunch. Active types enjoyed That Dam Ride around Storm King Dam. Midweek events include cooking demonstrations and concerts leading up to Apple Day on Thursday, March 5, where you’ll discover that apple peeling is a competitive skill. If you can’t beat Kerrie Stratford’s 6.1metre apple peel record that she has held for 15 years, start practising now. The Stanthorpe Seasonal Feast Markets on Friday, March 6, include a community grape crush, Granite Belt wines and food. On the festival’s main weekend, March 7 and 8, Stanthorpe comes alive with the Heritage Bank Food & Wine Fiesta, markets, food displays, railway train trips, and the grand parade. Find out more at appleandgrape.org.
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Irish luxury through the roof IF it’s luxury you’re after, there are plenty of topnotch hotels across Northern Ireland. If it’s something amazing, unusual or even eccentric, here are seven self-catering options that will fit the bill. 1. Twilight Bunkhouse, Carnlough, County Antrim Cosy indie coffee shop downstairs, comfy getaway upstairs, with views over Carnlough Harbour – or the Braavos Canal for Game of Thrones fans (the harbour was a film location for the HBO blockbuster). The two six-person dorms and two four-person private rooms come complete with kitchen, guest lounge and access to a courtyard. 2. Finn Lough Bubble Domes, County Fermanagh A cosy little bubble to call home deep in the forest of a lakeland resort. These polished, airy and 360degree glass-dome suites, with complimentary Wi-Fi, flatscreens and tea- and
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CLEAR FAVOURITE: The Finn Lough Bubble Domes lie deep in the forest of a lakeland resort.
coffee-making facilities, mean you can stargaze the night sky on comfy seats or recline on the four-poster bed. 3. Aurora, Bushmills, County Antrim
Hewn from Canadian cedar, this pair of deluxe log cabins comes complete with supersized beds, wood burners, outdoor hot tubs and private verandas. Just 1.6km from the world-
famous Giant’s Causeway, there are myriad attractions to explore nearby. 4. Quarry Hill Church, Strangford County Down A unique opportunity to stay in a stunning converted
Picture: Contributed
Presbyterian church built in 1846. The spectacular fivebedroom property is at the entrance to the picturesque village of Strangford, overlooking Castleward Bay. 5. Blackrock Beach
House, Portrush, County Antrim This superlative holiday home overlooks a Blue Flag beach in the seaside resort of Portrush. The best local bars and fine-dining restaurants are no further than a pleasant stroll along the promenade. This is the perfect base for exploring the Causeway Coastal Route. 6. Waterfall Caves, Limavady, County Londonderry A perfect getaway for a weekend in the outdoors, this quirky subterranean setup lies at the foot of Binevenagh Mountain. The luxury caves sleep up to four. 7. Further Space, Glenarm Castle, County Antrim A distinctive comfort zone in the grounds of a 17th-century castle, these stylish glamping pods are set on a spectacular hilltop site with breathtaking views. Info: ireland.com.
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Warming to hip Hobart’s culture club
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ECLECTIC MIX: The panoramic view of thriving Hobart from Mount Nelson. Pictures: Erle Levey
Art, music add to southern belle’s core appeal Erle Levey THERE’S more to Tasmania than apples, wine and seafood. The island state to the south of the Australian mainland is full of cultural surprises, whether it be art, music or architecture. And as well as the worldfamous Sydney-Hobart Yacht Race, there is another link to an even greater journey … a link to man’s landing on the moon. It’s something I quickly discovered after an earlymorning mystery flight from Brisbane in late November. Just pack a jumper, walking shoes and an iPhone, I was told. No need for a passport. That narrowed the destination down to Victoria, South Australia or Tasmania. Arriving at Gate 38, departures were either Melbourne or Hobart. Hobart it was. In a little more than two hours we were off the east coast of this southernmost part of Australia and starting the approach to Hobart International Airport. Even though it’s virtually the start of summer there is a chill in the air on leaving the terminal. And I’m glad there is a woollen beanie to pull on. After all, next landfall is Antarctica. Everything feels fresh. Friendly. After the novel greeting of life-size replicas of the native wildlife at the luggage collection area in the airport terminal, the drive into Hobart is mostly through bushland or rolling farming country. The approach to the Derwent River Bridge opens up the beautiful view of the city on both sides of the glacial-formed river and deep harbour. The backdrop is the majestic Mount Wellington, known as kunanyi by the first people, the Muwinina. Hobart is easy
to love. And to get around in. It’s such a walkable city for the most part. You only need a car for day trips to such locations as the wineries of the Coal Valley, historic Port Arthur Convict Settlement, the wooden boats centre in the Huon Valley or to the summit of Mount Wellington. There is the magnificent Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) to explore, the coastline of Bruny Island and so many walks. You don’t expect it to snow on the first night in summer. You don’t expect to stumble upon an art exhibition opening on your way to dinner. You don’t expect to experience the strings section of a symphony
orchestra playing to a packed house at a brewery. There’s a lot to Hobart you don’t expect … and that’s part of its charm. Hobart is easy to love … even when the weather turns cold and grey. To see the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra at Hobart Brewing’s Red Shed at Mac Point was something to warm the soul. It was simply an 800m walk from the Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel, near Victoria Dock.
Despite the soft rain and chill wind the atmosphere was warm at the brewery. Flannelette shirts and Blundstone boots were the order of the night as the sold-out crowd readily warmed to the unusual blending of an exceptional orchestra in such an industrial setting. Pot-belly stoves inside, open fires in the courtyard and the talk from the bar area added to the sense of occasion. The TSO is based right in the heart of Hobart. It is widely travelled throughout Australia and the most played on ABC Classic FM. Tonight the strings section will be playing everything from Elgar to Lady Gaga. On Saturday night is another sold-out event with the orchestra’s brass section performing at St David’s Anglican Cathedral, about another 800m up the hill in Murray Street. The TSO reaches a broad cross-section of listeners with free outdoor concerts in Hobart and Launceston, and performs in regional Tasmania, schools and community centres as well as these events that started three years ago to reach out to new audiences. As marketing director Sam Cairnduff says, they are looking at different ways to take music out there. “We are going through our most successful period in 71 years. While subscriptions around the country are challenging, ours are going up year on year. “We are pretty much getting right around the state, and around Australia. “A specialty is Australian composers. We have recorded more than any other orchestra. “We have championed a lot of composers. Our
The Cascades Female Factory, a former Australian workhouse for female convicts.
Australian conductors’ workshop is a pipeline for aspiring conductors to build skills.’’ Tasmania’s food and wine are celebrated for their quality, especially its seafood. And there are so many good places to eat in the city. Walking back from the brewery, we stop at the Drunken Admiral, right on Victoria Dock. I had wondered about it, being in such a convenient position. Would it be a tourist place? Friends had all talked about it, including those who had lived in Hobart. Yet fears of it being impersonal were quickly dismissed as soon as we walked through the door. It was a step back in time … to the inside of an old sailing ship with bowsprits, figureheads, heavy timber tables, all sorts of nautical bits and pieces such as
Tasmania Symphony Orchestra Strings at the Red Shed, Hobart Brewing Company.
shackles, ropes and chains, old sails, and gimballed navigation lights. Everywhere you looked was like being in an antiques shop. It was busy … and despite it being a cold night the welcoming was warm. We were happy to sit up at the bar and grab a drink while ordering. The rum barrel behind the bar reminded you of what it must have been like in the time of sail. Bruny Island oysters are arguably the best you will taste, then there’s the scallops, the seafood chowder, crusty bread … and a Tasmanian red. To finish we walked around the waterfront to the floating Van Diemens Land Creamery. The city fronts the River Derwent, so it has not just a nautical past but it is still part of its seafaring culture.
Constitution Dock, famous for the finish of the SydneyHobart Yacht Race, is also home to sailing ships from Tasmania’s past. The sailing vessel May Queen, Australia’s oldest sail trading vessel, is one of only a handful of wooden vessels of her era still afloat in the world. Westward is a fishing vessel that was converted to a racing yacht and claimed handicap victories in the Sydney-Hobart Yacht Races of both 1947 and 1948. Recently, the SydneyHobart pioneer Mistral II has joined the fleet, in preparation for a major restoration to take several years. Being able to virtually walk everywhere in Hobart adds to the intimacy of the city. Such as enjoying the Salamanca Markets of a Saturday morning, on the western side of the
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It’s well worth the walk up to Battery Point for the stunning surrounds and gorgeous views.
‘‘
There’s a lot to Hobart you don’t expect … and that’s part of its charm.
The Jackman and McRoss Bakery is a Battery Point highlight – one of the rewards for visiting the area.
waterfront. And then to walk up to Battery Point and places such as Jackman and McRoss Bakery, or on to the Shipwright’s Arms Hotel for a counter meal, particularly of a Thursday for the jazz night. Shippies, as it is known, was established in 1846 and remains a traditional oldschool pub complete with nautical mementos and pictures to celebrate its history. Yet Hobart also has a host of interesting places within easy reach, whether it be by car, tour or ferry. Mt Wellington, the dramatic backdrop to the city, is 1270 metres high, and climbed in 1798 by surgeon and explorer George Bass. You can drive up, walk up or take a bike tour. Yet the weather can change quickly … from sunshine to cloud and scotch mist in minutes. But the view is enormous. Stop at the convict
women’s factory in South Hobart to get a glimpse of the harsh conditions the prisoners found themselves in during the 1800s. Catch the ferry out to MONA, a remarkable art gallery cut into the sandstone cliffs and privately funded by Tasmanian David Walsh. Allow time to discover what’s there as there is a remarkable backstory about how it came about. Although it is not publicly funded it has earned such a name that virtually everyone who goes to Hobart probably experiences it … 400,000 visitors a year. Set in the grounds of Moorilla Winery, the oldest in Tasmania, and on the banks of the Derwent, MONA has made a giant difference to the Tasmanian economy. Art and wine … both need even temperatures and controlled
light to preserve them at their best. MONA was built in 2011 with the philosophy that arts and culture should always be accessible. A bit further out is Richmond in the Coal Valley, the perfect place to wander through the wineries, try the food and sketch the secondmost photographed bridge in Australia. Standing among the rows of grapevines at Frogmore Creek Winery, the shape of the Mount Pleasant radio telescope provides a juxtaposition. Something from the future in such an old landscape. Now run by the University of Tasmania, it had been part of the deep-space research program of the 1960s. It had been the Orroral Valley radio telescope to the south of Canberra and was the first deep-space tracking station. That was before
nearby Honeysuckle Creek and then Parkes, in the central west of New South Wales, became forever etched in history as the sites to relay the first televised pictures of the moon landing … the “one step for man, one giant step for mankind’’. Between mountain and sea, Australia’s southernmost state capital is wrapped up in history, culture, adventure and the natural environment. Hobart is timeless. Such clean air, good food and interesting landscapes. Even the story of Tasmania is somewhat of an adventure. The first reported sighting of Tasmania by a European was on November 24, 1642, by the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, who named the island Anthoonij van Diemenslandt, later shortened to Van Diemen’s Land.
The square-rigged sailing ship Yukon at Franklin in the Huon Valley.
The 1846-built Shipwright's Arms Hotel at Battery Point. V1 - SESE01Z01MA
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Perth’s worth easy to savour IN BRIEF ENJOY all-inclusive Perth touring at its best, featuring the Margaret River, Pinnacles Desert, Swan River lunch cruise, Fremantle, special lunches, a magnificent cruise and more meals. The Discover Australia tour spans six days in Perth with flights, Western Australia luxury touring, the cruise, accommodation, breakfast daily, other meals and personalised transfers. Admire the remarkable moonscape of the Pinnacles Desert, the world-famous Margaret River region, the longest wooden jetty in the southern hemisphere, Busselton jetty and the bohemian port town of Fremantle, and enjoy a special lunch cruise down the iconic Swan River. Discover Australia’s packages are wonderful for senior and solo travellers, and those with some
The beautiful Margaret River area has so much to offer, with local wine a favourite.
Info: Phone 135 777 or visit https://www.tripadeal .com.au/deals/3372-15-daysri-lanka-maldives.
US ROAD TRIP: SEE BEST OF THE WEST CAPITAL IDEA: Perth is the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding area.
mobility limitations. The package costs $1532 per person, twin share. Info: https://www .discoveraustralia.com.au/ or phone 1800 519 678.
SRI LANKA AND MALDIVES MAGIC Modern cities and timeless ruins, wildlife-rich jungle and tea plantations as far as the eyes can see; Sri Lanka offers an irresistible mix of
Call our friendly, experienced team to book your next cruise or touring holiday or to join one of Go See Touring’s special group departures.
ancient history, living culture and untouched natural beauty. When combined with the barefoot luxury of the Maldives, where minutes seem like hours and hours feel like days, you have all the makings of a truly lifechanging holiday. This 15-day discovery
1300 551 997 | (07) 5513 1086 E: info@goseetouring.com www.goseetouring.com
NORFOLK ISLAND CROQUET
$2,335
*
per person Twin Share Ex BNE Single supplement From $540
CHRISTMAS IN JULy NORFOLK ISLAND
11 - 18 JULy 2020
Want to enjoy the festive season twice this year? Spend a week on Norfolk Island with its stunning scenery, sandy beaches and jagged cliffs. There is so much to see and do – and all at your own pace. We’ve included some great accommodation options, a hire car so you can explore, some fabulous tours that you won’t want to miss, plus plenty more to do on the Island. Enjoy a festive delicious Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings, fun trivia and Carols at Paradise Hotel & Resort. Chase away those winter blues and have some fun. Call us now to secure your accommodation.
per person Twin Share Ex BNE Single supplement From $495
From
$2,095*
NORFOLK ISLAND A LITTLE BIT COUNTRy ESCORTED EX BRISBANE From
per person Twin Share Ex BNE
$2,995* Single supplement $340 BELLA ITALIA HOSTED By FORTUNATO ISGRO From
Per person Twin Share
BNE, Single $995 $10,950* exsupplement
$4,395*
15 SEPTEMBER - 06 OCTOBER 2020
$3,995*
13 - 24 OCTOBER 2020
Vietnam dazzles the senses, the sights, the sounds, the fragrances. Dramatic vistas and tumultuous history. Beautiful fresh foods, vibrant markets and friendly locals. Let us show you why we love this compelling country so much. This 11 day tour takes in the best of south, central and northern Vietnam and ends with a 2 night cruise on the UNESCO per person World Heritage Halong Bay. You’ll find out why everyone is drawn to Twin Share Ex BNE this fascinating country and why it should be on everyone’s travel list. Single supplement $1040 Contact us for more details.
MAGICAL COOK ISLANDS HOSTED By LyNNE & GRAEME HUGO From
18 - 25 JULy 2020
Join Fortunato Isgro or Lindsay (Waddo) Waddington for a fantastic week on Norfolk Island of Songs and laughter! A Little Bit Country on Norfolk Island 2020 sees a great line-up of performers taking to the stage. Graeme Hugo, Fortunato Isgro, Wayne Horsburgh and Lindsay (Waddo) Waddington will all perform at 3 big shows during the week. Plus plenty of time for you to enjoy beautiful Norfolk Island with its colourful history, lush greenery, stunning scenery and friendly locals. Enjoy delicious cuisine, tours, time to shop and explore and plenty of laughs along the way. Call us for more information!
You are invited to join entertainer Fortunato on his muchanticipated ‘Bella Italia’ tour, where you will experience 22 days of incredible history, culture, food and scenic landscapes within central and southern Italy all whilst enjoying wonderful entertainment from your renowned host. Fortunato is particularly excited to also take you to Sicily and the Aeolian Islands where his family originates, to bring you an authentic experience that you will never forget. You don’t want to miss out on this stress-free holiday with Fortunato and his family. Contact us for more fabulous details.
COLOURFUL VIETNAM ESCORTED EX BRISBANE From
Upmarket shopping at Rodeo Drive is an LA highlight.
30 OCTOBER - 07 NOVEMBER 2020
You are invited to join entertainer Graeme Hugo & Lynne for a trip of a lifetime to the beautiful Cook Islands. Experience the authentic colourful local culture, swim in crystal clear tropical waters, enjoy delicious local cuisine, informative and scenic tours. Located just 6 hours from Australia, we hope you can join Per person Twin Share ex BNE, us on this trip to paradise. Please call us to secure your place Single Supplement $980 or for more details.
TERMS & CONDITIONS *Price is per person Twin Share. Single Supplement applies. Credit card surcharges apply. Deposit of AUD $500-$800 per person is required to secure tour. Tour requires a minimum number of passengers to depart. Prices may fluctuate if surcharges, fee, taxes or currency change. Prices current as at 20 February 2020. Go See Touring in conjunction with Norfolk Select Marketing ABN: 93 367 366 822 ATAS Accreditation A10619
7099112ae
From
27 JUNE – 4 JULy 2020
Due to popular demand Go See Touring invites players & spectators to join us on Norfolk Island in June 2020 for a 2nd tournament of the 6th Convict’s Cup Social Croquet event. This is a social golf croquet doubles event and it doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or an expert - it’s all about having fun. You’ll play on the oldest sporting pitch in the Southern hemisphere that is still in use. With stunning Norfolk Island as the backdrop to this week of friendly competition, there will be sightseeing, lots of fun and laughter! We hope you can join us!
package is a chance to do just that, immersing yourself in the exotic wonders of Sri Lanka on tour, before slowing things down at an all-inclusive Maldives resort. Savour a taste of Sri Lankan daily life with free time in Negombo and the Kandalama/Sigiriya area, plus enjoy a guided tour of the Dutch colonial city of Galle. Marvel at the golden Buddha and cave art of Dambulla Rock Cave Temple; spend a night in Kandy, a cultural capital brimming with intriguing museums; and journey through the hillside plantations of Nuwara Eliya, where you can explore the
Pictures: Contributed
country’s rich tea culture. In the Maldives, pure relaxation is the name of the game. Relax with four days at leisure at the four-star Adaaran Club Rannalhi Maldives, enjoying three meals daily and an allinclusive drinks package, as well as a complimentary shark-feeding excursion and spa discounts. This package includes return international flights, quality hotel accommodation and English-speaking guides. The special, unique offer is valid for travel on selected dates until October 14, 2020. This price, $2999, is for one person based on twin share. For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement applies: standard, $1350; overwater villa, $2350. Departure dates for 2020 are April 20, May 18, June 2, July 21, August 18, September 17 and October 14.
Skyscrapers, sequoias and impossibly big skies await you in America’s West. This 15-day tour through the urban and natural wonders of California, Arizona and Nevada is perfect for travellers who want to inject a little downtown energy into their out-of-town escapes. In the cities, you’ll traverse the concrete jungle by day with an expert CEO (chief experience officer) and overnight in hotels and hostels. You’ll marvel at the Grand Canyon and the giant sequoias of Yosemite before diving into a barbecue dinner and camping. Highlights are stargazing in Los Angeles, marvelling at a Grand Canyon sunset, opting to spend a night in dramatic Monument Valley, taking a chance in Las Vegas, camping under the stars, and hiking in Yosemite. Included are accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Info: https://www.statravel.com .au/tours-on-sale.htm or phone 1300 735 277.
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Century for Joyce BRAND INSIGHTS WHEN it comes to firsts, Joyce Osborne has seen a few in the 100 years since she was born in Toowoomba in 1920. From the start, Joyce was breaking new ground. She was the first child in the Jandowae district to come home in a car. Later in life she was the first woman to graduate from Pharmacy studies at The University of Queensland and to go on to manage pharmacies across Queensland and New South Wales. Now living at home on the Sunshine Coast, Joyce celebrated her 100th birthday with family and friends on January 20. While the letter from the Queen was impressive, for Joyce the letter from the Bishop of the Anglican Church Grafton
Dioscese was just as important as it was a reminder of the years of service her family had provided to parishioners in the region. Joyce, who grew up with an older brother Ken (who lived to 97) and a sister Kathleen (who lived to 103), started her career as a pharmacist filling in when other pharmacists took leave. She met her future husband Brian when he came to work with her as an apprentice at a pharmacy in Fortitude Valley in Brisbane. As a couple, they worked in and owned pharmacies for about 20 years before Brian became an Anglican priest (Rev’d Canon) and Joyce sold their Goonellabah pharmacy to support him with his work in various parishes across NSW including Lismore, Dorrigo, South Grafton, Mullumbimby, Kyogle and
CENTENARIAN: Suncare's Amy Bertwistle and centenarian Joyce Osborne who turned 100 on January 20.
Casino. They were married for 63 years from 1953 to 2016 when Brian passed away, aged 84. Reflecting on a few highlights of her life, Joyce recalled fondly a stint in the United States where the family moved to watch over a parish in Basking Ridge, New Jersey for several years. For Joyce, whose house features many full bookshelves, a love of learning has been part of her
life and helped to keep her young. “I’ve had a great desire for information. I was always looking for information. I did a fair lot of studies. There’s always something interesting to learn,” she said. Joyce celebrated her birthday over a week, spending time with her three children, Mark, Jane and Sue and a number of grandchildren. Altogether
she has eight grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. Joyce’s daughter Sue said while he mum did not get out too much anymore, she was comfortable at home with regular visits from Christine from St Marks Buderim for Communion and Isabelle, a Community Visitor Scheme Volunteer from Suncare Community Services who comes every week when she’s home.
Suncare’s Care Coordinator Amy Bertwistle said Joyce was a remarkable lady and her team had loved working with her since April last year. Amy said her team was able to help out with basic chores and support for Joyce each week. Amy said it was great to be helping to make it possible for her to stay at home, where she wants to be, for as long as possible.
Your first choice for a Home Care Package We all know there’s no place like home.
1800 786 227 suncare.org.au V1 - SESE01Z01MA
Making people’s lives better for fifty years
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We can help you to stay in your own home, connected to your community and in control of your lifestyle. With a Suncare Home Care Package you’re in the driving seat, we’re just here to offer support and a helping hand.
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Assisting seniors every day BRAND INSIGHTS WITH nearly 10,000 active clients, the team at Maroochydore Home Maintenance and Care Association Inc (commonly known as Maroochy Home Assist) have helped plenty of Sunshine Coast seniors to have a better day. Launched 24 years ago with the aim of making it easier for people to live longer at home independently, Maroochy Home Maintenance has evolved with the needs of their clients. General manager Bill Fay said that when the business first started it was all about security and safety, installing hand rails and ramps to make it easier for people to move around their home. Mr Fay said as the population aged there was greater demand for a range of services from once a year garden clean-ups to window cleaning, air-conditioning
cleaning and much more some of which was now accessible through government funding. Sunshine Coast focused, the Maroochy Home Maintenance team members will travel from Eumundi to Beeburrum to undertake minor modifications on houses for residents requiring help, and as far west as Kenilworth and Connondale. Minor home modifications can include the installation of grab rails, hand rails, rubber wedges, chair and bed raisers for which an occupational therapy assessment is required (and can be organised by the team). Minor home maintenance services offered include smoke alarm checks, changing of light globes, lock and door handle repairs, appliance repairs, subsidised plumbing and electrical work, key safe installation, minor carpentry and more. For major modification
LAUNCHED 24 YEARS AGO WITH THE AIM OF MAKING IT EASIER FOR PEOPLE TO LIVE LONGER AT HOME INDEPENDENTLY
TOP SERVICE: Our team will travel the Sunshine Coast to assist with your home modications and service your maintenance needs.
work they’ve travelled from Woody Point to Tin Can Bay. Work includes removing baths and/or hobs to create wheelchair-friendly bathrooms and installation of stair lifts and access
ramps, all built to Australian Disability Standards. Manager Julie Stacey said the business operated with a team of 27 people including five builders, 11 field officers and 11 people in the busy call
centre office and they all love what they do. “Every single day, you’re helping people,” she said. Mrs Stacey said one of the most common modifications on the Coast was the
removal of showers over baths and their replacement with a straight shower setup. Maroochy Home Maintenance works closely with state and federal government programs that offer help to some people when it comes to cover the costs of their services. The group is also registered as an NDIS provider. The business mission statement is simple: “To provide a quality service of home maintenance, home modification and home security that maintains and improves the wellbeing and safety of our clients”. Phone 07 5476 6130.
MAROOCHY HOME MAINTENANCE & CARE The preferred service provider for home maintenance and modification on the Sunshine Coast for the frail, aged or disabled. We service all areas of the Sunshine Coast south of Peregian Beach including Caloundra. Examples of what we will assist you with include: Installation of grab rails Ramps/Steps/Wedges Handheld Showers Keysafes Light Globe changing / Smoke Detector battery changing Locks and Door Handles Appliance Repairs Plumbing and Electrical Gutter Cleaning Flyscreens Minor Carpentry
All reasonable requests involving your health and safety will be considered. We also specialise in major bathroom modifications, ramps and stairlifts for ease of access. Our aim is to help you to continue safely living in your own home.
BEFORE
AFTER
7134646aa
Funding provided by Federal and State Government. Funding eligibility criteria applies. We are an NDIS registered provider
For further information visit
www.maroochyhomeassist.com.au
or caLL our friendly staff on
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Chance to jump in to health project
Wellbeing
Dip your toe in the water and make new friends Tracey Johnstone
ACTIVE AGEING: Seniors health researcher Dr Sue Broadbent and a senior swimmer at the new USC pool. Picture: Contributed
SENIORS are invited to experience the positive effect of water-based exercise while helping a local academic develop a snapshot of their health for a national project. Associate Professor Sue Broadbent of the Sunshine Coast University wants seniors aged 65 and over to join her in the new 25m pool at the Sports Precinct in Sippy Downs for 15 weeks of health therapy, designed to meet the needs of the participants. You don’t need to have previously done aquatic exercise classes or been particularly active prior to starting in the project, but you must be comfortable in
the water. If you aren’t doing much exercise, this could be the Active Ageing program for you. “It’s part of an Australiawide grant from Exercise and Sports Science Australia,” Dr Broadbent said. “It’s a massive national project to try to get seniors back to doing some form of physical activity or sport.” The program starts with a free exercise class. Then each person will have a full health assessment which costs $18. Following that the participant moves into 12 weeks of a one-hour class per week in the pool at $8 per class, followed by a final review session. “There will be a mixture of things,” Dr Broadbent said. “There will be aerobic exercises like marching on
the spot, pool noodling and jumping on the spot. They will all be targeted towards the participant.” There will also be balance exercises and upper body strength exercises. “It will be self-paced; it won’t be like an aerobics class,” she added. She expects there will also be plenty of social time among the 12-person groups. At the completion of the project, participants can keep going either in the pool or by joining other exercise groups. “I am hoping they enjoy it so much they buy aquatic exercise classes and I am happy to keep running them,” Dr Broadbent said. Info: Phone Dr Broadbent on 0435 912911 or email sbroadbe@usc.edu.au.
Low-cost option to Choose to Move Tracey Johnstone THE Coast’s new Choose to Move program has a range of low-cost activities for the not-so-fit to the fit, with tai chi, aqua, strength and balance, and other fitness classes on offer. To find out about classes in your area, check out the list below and stay up to date at www.sunshinecoast. qld.gov.au/healthysunshine coast. Classes include: BEERWAH Over 55s Group Fitness at Beerwah Community Hall. Fridays 8am. Cost $5 per class. Register/pay on the day. Phone Beerwah All In One Fitness 5439 0949. Strength and stability in the gym, All In One Fitness, 62 Simpson St, every V1 - SESE01Z01MA
weekday 8-9am. All In One Fitness (Beerwah), 5439 0949. BUDERIM Strength and Stability, BWMCA Hall, corner of King St and Gloucester Rd, Tuesdays 8-9am and 910am. Strength and Stability, Buderim Uniting Church Hall, 2-10 Gloucester Rd, Friday 12-1pm. Phone Andy at Independence Movement 0452 25 5527. CALOUNDRA Group Fitness Class with Resolve Fitness at Caloundra Indoor Stadium, North Street, Golden Beach, Wednesdays 9.30am, $2 per person. Phone 5436 0222. COOLUM BEACH Strength and Stability, Uniting Church Hall,
Elizabeth St, Fridays 6.457.45am and 7.45-8.45am. Phone Andy at Independence Movement on 0452 255 527. MALENY Stability, Balance and Core, RSL Hall, 1 Bunya St, Tuesdays 8.30-9.30am and Thursdays 8.30-9.30am. Phone Danielle, Mind Body, Soul Fitness 0418 139 878. MOOLOOLABA Free Group Fitness with TAFE is on 6.15-7am at the TAFE Mooloolaba Campus in Mountain Creek. Boxing on Tuesdays and Circuit on Thursdays. To attend, register at sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/ Living-and-Community/ Community-Support/ Healthy-Sunshine-Coast/ Group-Fitness/OutdoorGroup-Sessions.
PUMPED: The launch of the Choose to Move program.
MAROOCHYDORE Strength and Stability, Suncare Hall (directly behind the RSL) 2-6 George St, Thursdays 8-9am and 910am. Phone Andy at Independence Movement on 0452 255 527. MUDJIMBA Strength and Stability, Northshore Community
Centre, 701 David Low Way, Pacific Paradise, Mondays 8.30-9.30am and 10.3011.30am, and Tuesdays 78am. Phone Andy at Independence Movement 0452 255 527. NAMBOUR Beginners Tai Chi at Nambour CWA Hall on Tuesdays 11.45am. Cost $5
Picture: Contributed
per class. Register/pay on the day. Phone Kaz 0407 525 980. Strength and stability in the gym, Nambour Gym and Fitness Studio, 15 Windsor Rd, Thursdays 8.309.30am. For details, phone Nambour Gym and Fitness on 5441 7744.
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Memories for all to cherish Tracey Johnstone STORIES of the past that are important to Australia’s younger generations are part of a new book launched last month on the Sunshine Coast. Moments We Treasure: Preserving Memories Forever contains 16 personal stories shared by Anglicare’s Sunshine Coast Writer’s Circle respite clients. How they came to live in Australia, fighting fires, dealing with family tragedy, caring for the sick, living on the land and coming of age answer many of the questions the younger generations often forget to ask of their older family members.
Anglicare Lifestyle and Wellbeing team leader Leah Sullivan said the book took 12 months to come together. “You’ll find stories from the heart and the wisdom of the past, old sayings and remedies you might have forgotten, and how we used to celebrate special occasions,” she said. “Our writers have recalled memorable moments from their younger days, some funny, some happy, some sad. “One thing that shines through is the value they place on family as the important anchor in their lives.” The book is available in Sunshine Coast libraries and at the State Library of Queensland.
STORIES SHARED: Writer's Circle author Ivan Stefanovic and Anglicare's Leah Sullivan promote new book Moments We Treasure: Preserving Memories Forever. Picture: Contributed
Connect with vital service Tracey Johnstone REGISTRATION is essential for all sessions at these Sunshine Coast Council library sessions. To book in, phone 07 5475 8989 or visit library.sunshinecoast.qld .gov.au. Get connected to the National Broadband Network ARE you struggling with nbn or haven’t yet connected? Were you aware that once the nbn network rollout is complete in 2020 that most existing landline
phone and internet services will be disconnected? Come along and join Ray Krebs from nbn and have all your nbn connection questions answered. Learn how to look for a provider that will meet your needs and give you the best value for money. Find out how to get the most from your nbn connection plans and perform speed tests. Obtain information on whether the nbn will affect existing home phone and medical alarm arrangements and learn how to protect yourself from scams.
Sunshine Coast Libraries sessions are: Maroochydore – 3rd, 10.30am-12pm; Nambour – 4th, 10-11.30am; Beerwah – 6th, 10-11.30am; Kawana – 12th, 10-11.30am; Maleny – 13th, 10-11.30am; Coolum – 17th, 10-11.30am; Caloundra – 25th, 10-11.30am. Home care packages explained GET the assistance you need to stay in your home for longer. Join Tracey Betts from Care Connect and find out how to access government-funded services and support. Learn
about the wide variety of services on offer, including cleaning, gardening, transport, meal preparation and more. Understand how personalised advice and guidance will help you to stay independent as you age. Get tips on navigating the referral and assessment process. Take a closer look at the different levels of care available and get information on eligibility and income testing. Sunshine Coast Libraries. Maleny – 6th, 10-11.30am;
Kawana – 11th, 1.30-3pm; Beerwah – 12th, 10-11.30am; Kenilworth – 13th, 10.30am12pm; Caloundra – 18th, 1011.30am; Maroochydore – 24th, 10.30am-12pm; Nambour – 25th, 1011.30am; Coolum – 31st, 1011.30am. Gut and Bowel Health The digestive system can be easily upset, leaving you feeling bloated and sluggish and keeping you from performing at your best. Join the Clinical team from Coastal Digestive Health and learn how to keep your gut and bowel
functioning well. Get tips on healthy diet and lifestyle choices. Hear about symptoms and causes of common gut and bowel issues such as IBS and inflamed digestive systems. Learn about free testing available and take a closer look at treatment options to keep your colon happy. Coolum – 3rd, 10-11.30am; Beerwah – 4th, 10-11.30am; Nambour – 5th, 10-11.30am; Caloundra 11th, 10-11.30am; Kawana – 20th, 10-11.30am; Maroochydore – April 1, 10.30am-12pm; Maleny – April 10th, 10-11.30am.
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Look health in the eye LONG-TERM vision disorders affected 93 per cent of people aged 55 and older in 2017-18, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s Eye Health Web Report. Of course, there are many eye conditions that affect people at various stages of life and these often depend on genetic, congenital and lifestyle factors. According to Daniel Cornelius from Clearly.com.au, the most common to impact ageing Australians are: • Presbyopia, or “the ageing eye’’, the effects of which we will all experience from the age of about 40 as a normal part of growing older. This condition affects the ability of the eye to change focus from far to near. The onset may vary slightly depending on the lifestyle and environment before the age of 40. • Cataracts: Just like presbyopia, developing cataracts is a normal part of ageing and is not always classified as an eye disease. Cataracts occur when the crystalline lens of the eye starts to lose its transparency.This condition is dealt with by extraction of the opacified crystalline lens of the eye and replacing it with a clear artificial lens. • Glaucoma – a condition whereby the optic nerve of the eye progressively becomes damaged. This is often associated with high pressure in the eye. The loss of vision typically occurs in the peripheral sight and
EYE-CARE TIPS • Visit you optometrist at least yearly. • Consult your optometrist as soon as you notice a difference in your vision. • Have the right ‘tool’ for the task. In today’s visually demanding world, it makes sense to optimise your vision for specific tasks. • Consider contact lenses as an alternative to wearing your prescription glasses. • Maintain A healthy weight: exercise and diet help prevent diabetes and high blood pressure.
BE WATCHFUL: Glaucoma is a silent disease that develops slowly, experts say. Picture: Contributed
often goes undetected. In most cases, this condition can be treated successfully. Unfortunately, glaucoma remains one of the major causes of blindness in the world. This is because the condition has no or very few symptoms in the initial
stages and it is probably the most under-diagnosed of serious eye diseases. • Age-related macular degeneration: This is among the major causes of blindness in Australia. It typically affects central vision. There are two types
of age-related macular degeneration: dry and wet. Dry macular degeneration typically progresses very slowly and does not often result in legal blindness. Unfortunately, there are currently no treatments for this condition.
• Diabetic retinal disease: There has been a dramatic increase in type 2 diabetes among the ageing population of the world, leading to a radical increase in diabetic retinopathy. The risk of developing these retinal complications greatly
increase with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes or poorly controlled type 2 diabetes. Managing the risk for related eye disease requires a multidisciplinary approach, with regular screening for retinal disease recommended.
Crisis not over yet – health risks remain PEOPLE near bushfire areas who have been exposed to prolonged smoke and haze, as well as recent storms and flash flooding, need to watch out for extra asthma and allergy risks, the National Asthma Council Australia advises. Extreme weather conditions and the forecast return of high temperatures across Australia, coupled with stress and anxiety from personal loss or upheavals, are likely to trigger flare-ups for people with asthma. V2 - SESE01Z01MA
Asthma Council CEO Siobhan Brophy says it is important for people experiencing any kind of breathing problems, coughing or chest tightness to see their local pharmacist, nurse or doctor for advice. “It is easy to let personal health niggles get pushed aside in times of crisis, but asthma is too dangerous to ignore,’’ Ms Brophy says. “Even when the smoke clears, what’s happening in your lungs could be about to get worse.’’
Ms Brophy says people who are cleaning up bushfire-impacted properties need to take extra care as ash, chemicals and other toxic residues can all trigger breathing problems. “Looking after your lungs in the short term will help you have the energy to deal with the long haul of recovery,’’ she says. “So please, don’t put off talking to a health professional.’’ Firefighters, community
volunteers and media workers with prolonged exposure to dust and ash should also seek advice if concerned. The Asthma Council is advising people in areas affected by bushfires and extreme weather to take the following actions to stay safe: • Follow advice from your local emergency services and health authorities, particularly around the protective clothing and equipment you might need.
• Be mindful that dust, ash and chemicals are potent asthma triggers and can travel long distances during a fire. • Open doors and windows to ventilate your home when air quality improves. • When cleaning up, be aware of what triggers your asthma, especially with cleaning products that contain harsh chemicals. • Be alert for asthma symptoms and follow your asthma action plan.
• Make sure you are taking your regular asthma preventer medications, if prescribed. • If your home reached high temperatures, asthma inhalers left there may be heat damaged and should be replaced. Speak with your pharmacist if you aren’t sure. • Take any heat- or waterdamaged medications to your local pharmacy for safe disposal. For more information, visit the council’s Sensitive Choice website.
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Give those web fraudsters the flick CYBERSECURITY is a real threat to everyone, from millennials who are afflicted with ‘‘optimism bias’’, through to seniors who lack general cybersecurity knowledge. According to the ACCC, scammers cost Australians half a billion dollars in 2018, via various schemes including internet-enabled theft, fraud, and exploitation, so it is important for those who didn’t grow up with technology to protect themselves from some of the most common types of online fraud. Nick FitzGerald, senior research fellow at ESET, said: “Optimism bias, loneliness, and deteriorating cognitive abilities are key leverage points that scammers use to target their victims. By understanding the potential risks and identifying the signs, those who grew up without technology can better
protect themselves in 2020.” Cybersecurity experts at ESET have outlined some tips to keep all internet users, including seniors, safe from common types of online scams. 1. Be sceptical Never assume that a stranger online is a trustworthy person. Always consider the possibility that any unexpected message may be a scam attempt, noting anything unusual about the message or sender. Additionally, caution should still be exercised if the message comes (or seems to come) from someone well known via email, instant messaging apps or social media. If in doubt, throw it out. 2. Don’t click It’s important to never automatically assume that any material received out of the blue is authentic, no matter how official it looks. One of the most pervasive
online cons, phishing, usually begins with an unsolicited email or social media message in which the fraudster impersonates a trusted entity using social engineering techniques, and attempts to persuade the victim to hand over sensitive data, such as credit card details or login credentials. 3. Say no to ‘freebies’ Fraudsters have also been known to send emails congratulating people on their “win’’ in a lottery or sweepstake that they never entered, or as the apparent only remaining relative of a y wealthy person who is genuinely deceased. Asking for personal details, requesting small payments and instilling a sense of urgency are all signs of a scam. 4. Never wire money to strangers Some $60.5 million was lost by Australians in 2018 to dating and romance fraud. Victims are tricked into
STAY ALERT: Scammers could be lurking behind your next email, so be aware of the signs and never give out your personal details. Picture: Contributed
sending money or personal information to a false admirer, making lonely seniors particularly susceptible. 5. Hang up
Tech support fraud is a common technique where the con artist advises potential victims that their computers have been compromised by malware.
Never give remote access to a device unless you called a help desk directly, even if the caller claims to represent a reputable vendor or your ISP.
Share the Good News If you’ve got big news, a heart-warming story or community event coming up, spread the word and share it online with Seniors!
Opening Doors to the Seniors Lifestyle
Visit seniorsnews.com.au today!
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EMBRACING AGED CARE: Resident celebrity gardener, Ron Leng and Lifestyle Coordinator Dee Border at Regis Kuluin.
Boredom banished by beautiful bromeliads BRAND INSIGHTS ONE of the biggest decisions older people and their families ever make is to move into an aged care facility. Every family and every person’s circumstances are different. For some couples, one partner may move into a facility located close to their partner and family, in other cases they’ll both move in. For singles, where, when and if they move can be even tougher unless there is strong support from family and friends to help with the decision making. For Ron Leng (AO, BSc Ag PhD, D Ru Sc, FRIC), his decision to move into Aged Care came after his wife spent time at the Regis Kuluin. Sadly, she died after only a short stay. Ron, 85, has embraced his new life at Regis Kuluin where he’s become somewhat of a celebrity gardener, having been a V1 - SESE01Z01MA
driving force behind the bromeliad garden at the centre. His biggest fear was of being bored, a fear he says has not eventuated. Asked to share a bit about his life and his journey into aged care, Ron said: “As a University Professor I enjoyed life to the fullest. “I travelled extensively, mainly on university business, and also worked with research scientists in many different countries both in establishing research groups and teaching in mainly the area of food production from domestic animals. So I have seen a good proportion of the world, but as in the song there’s no place like home. “When retirement years arrived I was not really prepared for such an event. “Retirement, from university, which I delayed as long as possible, brought about some changes in my life that I had never considered before. “I still consult for a
number of businesses at the age of 85. “Entering a retirement home was never before considered. “However, illness and circumstance raised the probability and at a fairly early stage and with my wife’s failing health the prospect became a reality. “Circumstances ruled and I was on a seminar tour of northern Australia when I first found that I had been stricken with a number of old age problems with drastic effects. “I was taken ill in the middle of a seminar that I could not complete. The illnesses I had were however do-able, but as it was suggested to me - at a reduced work input. I took this rather badly but I had to accept. “During this period my wife also became ill with problems of old age. Unfortunately, her stomach problems got worse and she needed the comfort that Kuluin provided and she
recognised the good attributes of her chosen future place to live. “I was able to get a good working knowledge of the home and the brilliant staff and management. I also looked carefully at the place in terms of how one fills in time in a home. “Even at that early stage I recognised the robust care of the guests by a welleducated, caring and knowledgeable staff, but despite every possible care, my wife died after a short stay. “I also saw the prospect for some potential spectacular gardening. “Helped by some further problems, I decided to move into Kuluin based on the above knowledge but also I had real fear of boredom and I had assurances that I would be encouraged to develop some of gardens which were rather run down at that time. “Why did I choose this place? “I have always been a
keen gardener. I find the challenge of gardening an enormous stimulation of my wellness, as my mother used to say - Ron’s in the garden inventing how to grow plants - she was otherwise a wonderful person! “I had a spade in my hands by the age of 5 and was expected to be a gardener. I loved gardening and an allotment was the only reason the family was well fed, all of us were expected to pull our weight to produce wholesome food. “Well, back to now ... with the help of the ever-present Dee, I got stuck into the gardens here. “I had a rather large bromeliads garden in my home and much of this was used to develop a broms garden. But it was also with the tremendous help of residents who gifted, what was often their favourite brom, to the garden. “I got a great deal of support and help as the broms garden extended into a vertical granite wall which
is now 90 per cent finished. “My family were great and my friend Doug largely designed many of the tricky hangings of various air plants. And others, including my youngest daughter Vivian, fitted in and took up the many tasks associated with wall planting as I was banned (on the basis of age) from climbing into the garden to fix things I could not reach from the sides. I was probably the only gardener in the world who could not set foot in his garden. “We are not finished yet, but the garden will be completed. “My new garden is a landscape and I hope the bosses will help and agree to the go-ahead for The Regis Garden with a Regis Collection of succulents, and a Desert Rose garden to be a memorial garden to the past residents, in particular to my wife.” For more, go to regis.com.au or phone 1300 998 100.
38
MONEY
MARCH, 2020//
SENIORS
Five key moves to turbocharge super in retirement run-up
Money
IT PAYS TO PLAN: Simple measures can help you make the most of your superannuation nest egg as retirement draws closer. Picture: Contributed
FOR many of us, saving for retirement isn’t something we’ve done our entire lives. However, when it comes to your 50s (and beyond), your super becomes more important to you than ever before and the key to retiring comfortably is all in the planning. Here are five easy ways you could boost your super when you’re over 50. 1. Consolidate your super Now might be the time to consolidate your super into one account to minimise fees, reducing your admin time and make it easier to keep track of your balance. Before consolidating super, it’s important to check you’re not going to lose any insurance cover in an existing super fund. 2. Think about debt Typically, retirees want to enter retirement with as little financial stress as possible – which means it’s time to think about debt. There’s a wide range of options on how best to manage debt including the option of starting to pay down debt now, or waiting
until retirement – it depends on the individual circumstances. 3. Increase your super contributions As available cash flow increases – say because the mortgage has been paid off – it might be time to increase your super contributions. Whether you choose to do this through salary sacrificing or a personal taxdeductible contribution, as you come closer to retirement it could be beneficial. to turbocharge your contributions to make the most of your investments. 4) Think about your investment strategy The closer you come to retirement, the better idea you will have of how and when you might like to retire. It’s a good time to assess your investment strategy to ensure it’s working for you and will get you where you want to go. Is your current strategy too aggressive as you move closer to leaving the workforce and have less time to ride the wave of investing?
5) Review your insurance/beneficiaries As your financial commitments start to slow down, it’s important to reevaluate your insurance needs and any beneficiaries. For some, if the mortgage is paid off and your emergency fund is in a good place, now might be the time to lower your level of cover or extend your waiting period to drop your premiums. Whatever you choose, review your beneficiaries regularly to avoid your benefit ending up in the hands of the wrong person or attracting unnecessary tax. – Dianne Charman, of Jade Financial Group, is an authorised representative of AMP Financial Planning Pty Ltd, ABN 89 051 208 327, AFS Licence No. 232706. Any advice given is general only and has not taken into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of this, before acting on any advice, you should consult a financial planner to consider how appropriate the advice is to your objectives, financial situation and needs.
Managing inheritance Mark Digby IN AUSTRALIA, special capital gains tax (CGT) rules apply when dealing with assets of a deceased estate. The most common types of assets inherited by a beneficiary that could be subject to a capital gain are property, shares and managed funds. Implications for Australian tax residents Within Australia it is only if you decide to sell the inherited asset at some point that the normal CGT rules apply.
Inherited Property: CGT outcomes are an important aspect to consider when selling inherited investments. Inheriting a family home may involve CGT when it is sold. This depends on a few factors, such as when it was bought, when it was sold and whether it was used for investment purposes during the ownership period. The sale of the family home may receive the “main residence exemption’’, which means that CGT will not apply. (If you’re a nonAustralian tax resident, CGT may be applicable.)
Inherited shares and managed Funds: Generally these assets can be passed to Australian tax resident beneficiaries and not involve a CGT event; however, the beneficiary will inherit the deceased person’s liability. This means the CGT is calculated on the original purchase price – not the price when these assets were inherited. Other CGT considerations: Generally speaking, if the asset is: • A collectable asset, such as rare stamps, then CGT may apply.
• Personal-use asset such as jewellery, a car or boat, CGT will typically not apply. Capital gain (or losses) on an inherited asset: Several considerations are involved in calculating a capital gain or loss. These can include: • The type of asset, and how it was used before the deceased’s passing. • The deceased’s date of death. • The date the asset was inherited. • Your ownership period, before selling the asset. • Whether you are selling the asset as an individual
Australian tax resident, or not. The CGT implications of a deceased estate are complicated. A financial adviser will be able to assist you in understanding any tax implications of inheriting an asset, based on your personal circumstances, objectives and goals. For more information, contact Mark Digby at Maher Digby Securities Pty Ltd – Financial Advisers – AFSL No. 230559 (see advert Page 3). Phone: 07 5441 1266 or visit www.maherdigby.com.au. – This article is not a substitute
for specialist tax advice This document was prepared without taking into account any person’s particular objectives, financial situation or needs. It is not guaranteed as accurate or complete and should not be relied upon as such. Maher Digby Securities does not accept any responsibility for the opinions, comments, forward looking statements, and analysis contained in this document, all of which are intended to be of a general nature. Investors should, before acting on this information, consider the appropriateness of this information having regard to their personal objectives, financial situation or needs. We recommend consulting a financial adviser. SESE01Z01MA - V1
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Coronavirus: ‘Black swan’ is no reason to hit panic button Paul Clitheroe IN the world of investing, a “black swan’’ is an unpredictable event with the potential for serious consequences. Right now, some commentators are saying the outbreak of coronavirus in China is a black swan. Without doubt, the spread of coronavirus has been astounding. First identified in December 2019, the number of cases has risen to more than 20,000 as I write in early February. Very sadly, hundreds of people have succumbed to the virus. While comparisons have
been made with the SARS outbreak of 2003, the impact of coronavirus is quite different. It has spread more rapidly, though thankfully, with fewer fatalities. In our highly interconnected global economy, investors don’t have to hold overseas assets to feel the financial impact of coronavirus. China is by far Australia’s biggest trading partner, accounting for one-quarter of our global trade. China also buys close to 25 per cent of our coal exports, and is our No. 1 source of tourists. In addition, 150,000 of Australia’s 400,000
Coronavirus is a “black swan’’ of the investment world.
overseas students hail from China.
So it’s not hard to see how the outbreak of coronavirus can impact on Australia’s economy as well as listed companies across a variety of industries. Despite some jitters, the Aussie sharemarket has held relatively steady since the start of 2020. That said, many investors may be uncertain about how they should respond. My first thoughts are to take care of your health. That means following government health directives and adopting sensible precautions if you’re travelling. In terms of your investment portfolio, I’m not convinced that you need to
take any steps at all – provided your investments are framed with your longterm needs, personal goals and tolerance for risk in mind. Let me stress, I am not discounting the tragic loss of life – nor the suffering of those who have contracted the virus. And I certainly don’t have a crystal ball that shows just how far coronavirus may spread. What I do know is that mankind has faced unprecedented health crises in the past – everything from SARS, MERS, swine flu and Ebola. For the victims and their families, the human toll has been dreadful.
39
Money
But for economies and sharemarkets, the recovery process has often been swift once the outbreak has been contained. The upshot is that a black swan shouldn’t derail your long-term investment plans – as long as you have ticked all the boxes for low-cost investments that you’re comfortable with and which have the potential to help you achieve personal goals. – Paul Clitheroe is chairman of InvestSMART, chairman of the Australian Government Financial Literacy Board and chief commentator for Money Magazine.
Generous natures are coming at a high cost GENEROUS Australian seniors are being taken advantage of to the tune of thousands by overseas online scammers and con artists. These scammers are taking seniors for a ride and no one is stopping them. Michael Jones, online security expert from Aussie Watch Dogs, said Aussie seniors were particularly vulnerable due to their generous natures and relative naivety online. “Younger Australians are more likely to do a little bit
of research before hitting the donate button. They’re also much better at picking up on seemingly obvious scams,” Mr Jones said. “Another major issue is that sometimes seniors feel embarrassed about being ripped off, and don’t want to tell anyone. This can be fixed by educating our seniors around how to spot dodgy offers and fake donation campaigns.” Mr Jones said anyone who wanted to be safer online could benefit from these tips:
• Check the spelling of any emails received. Would a bank or a large charity send you an email with terrible spelling? The answer is no. • Look at the quality of the website or Instagram or Facebook post. Again, this sounds simple but it’s amazing how many people miss it. A sure sign of an online scam is a poorly worded website or offer. • If in doubt, leave it out: before you buy anything, seek another opinion. Another pair of eyes might spot something you missed.
LOOK CLOSELY: Don’t accept all online approaches at face value.
Picture: Contributed
The Forum For Your Two Cents
Join our exclusive online community, where you’ll find other seniors ready to socialise and share. Seniors online - connecting you to an exciting retirement.
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SESE01Z01MA - V1
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PUZZLES
\\MARCH, 2020
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Across 1 Which anti-fungal antibiotic took part of its name from New York State, where it was developed? (8) 7 With what metal instrument does a dentist examine the teeth? (5) 8 Who shot dead the singer Marvin Gaye? (3,6) 9 What was the first animal to orbit the Earth? (3) 10 Which gaseous element has the symbol Ne? (4) 11 What disease is caused by a deficiency of vitamin C? (6) 13 What mythical monster is said to inhabit inland Australian waterways? (6) 14 What is another word for a rill, runnel, creek? (6) 17 What is half a circle’s diameter called? (6) 18 Which Greek god was ruler of the sky and weather? (4) 20 What corrosive alkaline substance is used in making soap? (3) 22 How would you address an archbishop? (4,5) 23 The rubber plant is of which genus? (5) 24 What is used in an office to make unwanted documents unreadable? (8)
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SUDOKU
Fill the grid so every column, every row and 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.
QUICK CROSSWORD 1
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Down 1 The Japanese refer to their country as Nippon and by what other name? (5) 2 Who (Siegfried _____) is known for his starkly realistic WWI poems? (7) 3 Who was brother of Hoss and Little Joe in TV’s Bonanza? (4) 4 Which Greek island is believed to have been the home of Homer’s Odysseus? (6) 5 What drink of liquor, water and sugar is served hot? (5) 6 In which European country is the town of Waterloo? (7) 7 Which expression from Latin means “in proportion”? (3,4) 12 How long did the 1967 war between Israel and Egypt, Syria and Jordan last? (3,4) 13 Which court officer executes writs? (7) 15 According to legend, which gemstone safeguards the chastity of the wearer? (7) 16 What word is from Greek eunoukhos, meaning “bedchamber attendant”? (6) 17 What German word means empire, kingdom? (5) 19 An assegai is a type of what? (5) 21 What monster in nursery stories lives on human flesh? (4)
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DOUBLECROSS 6
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Find a finished crossword by deleting one of the two letters in each divided square.
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Down 1. Agitate (5) 2. On the other hand (13) 3. Put forward (9) 4. Looking at (6) 5. Garland (3) 6. Tempting (5-8) 7. Walked (7) 11. Restore (9) 12. Against (7) 14. Faith (6) 17. Dogma (5) 19. Particle (3)
Across 1. Goblet (7) 5. Lanterns (5) 8. Current (2,2,3,6) 9. Neither (3) 10. Possession (9) 12. Impenetrable to light (6) 13. Magician (6) 15. Beyond value (9) 16. Consume (3) 18. Stipulation (13) 20. Senior member of a group (5) 21. Cargo (7)
SOLUTIONS
5x5 H O L E D
ALPHAGRAMS: CAFES, DYNAMO, EXPLAIN, FORENSIC, GLASSWARE. GK CROSSWORD Across; 1 Nystatin, 7 Probe, 8 His father, 9 Dog, 10 Neon, 11 Scurvy, 13 Bunyip, 14 Stream, 17 Radius, 18 Zeus, 20 Lye, 22 Your Grace, 23 Ficus, 24 Shredder. Down: 1 Nihon, 2 Sassoon, 3 Adam, 4 Ithaca, 5 Toddy, 6 Belgium, 7 Pro rata, 12 Six days, 13 Bailiff, 15 Emerald, 16 Eunuch, 17 Reich, 19 Spear, 21 Ogre. QUICK CROSSWORD Across: 1. Chalice 5. Lamps 8. Up to the minute 9. Nor 10. Ownership 12. Opaque 13. Wizard 15. Priceless 16. Eat 18. Specification 20. Doyen 21. Freight. Down: 1. Churn 2. Alternatively 3. Introduce 4. Eyeing 5. Lei 6. Mouth-watering 7. Stepped 11. Reinstate 12. Opposed 14. Belief 17. Tenet 19. Ion.
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.
FACES MANY DO AXLE PIN FIR CONES LARGE SAWS
5x5 C
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L O
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Insert the missing letters to make ten words — five reading across the grid and five reading down.
Note: more than one solution may be possible.
L C
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All puzzles © The Puzzle Company
TODAY: Good 16 Very Good 23 Excellent 30
there therefor THEREFORE thereof three tore tree
F
S L I C E
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A L O N E
How many words of four letters or more can you make? Each letter must be used only once and all words must contain the centre
R E B U T
WORD GO ROUND
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ALPHAGRAMS
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