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TRAVEL TO WORLD’S GREATEST GARDENS PAGE 28 THINGS....

BIG THINGS GROW

FROM LITTLE

South Australian Governor Hieu Van Le and his wife Lan tell their Australian story

SPRING MAKE YOUR PLANTS AND POTS FLOURISH PAGES 18 & 19

WELCOME

2

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Spring into a new season Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor

18

Top gardening tips

42

Money matters INDEX 3 Cover Story: Hieu Van Le AC 6 Profile: Prostate cancer survivors 10 Talk ‘n’ thoughts 12 Community Group Guide 17 What’s on 18 Spring gardening tips 21 Wellbeing 27 Wanderlust 38 Living 42 Money 46 Better Driving 47 Puzzles

HELLO readers, welcome to this month’s spring edition.

Spring is traditionally a time of renewal and I believe our cover story truly highlights this theme.

In many ways the extraordinary life of South Australian Governor Hieu Van Le runs like a movie – but this is no fantasy, it is real life and I think its authenticity gives us all hope for a better future and even renewal, no matter our age or circumstances.

I hope you enjoy Tracey Johnstone’s story as much as I did.

In celebration of spring, we speak to local gardeners who share their tips for a flourishing and fertile garden and, let’s face it, there is nothing like first-hand advice from people who love their gardens.

Speaking of blooming gardens, in terms of travel we take a look at some of the best gardens in the world, featuring vast fields of buds, blooms and breathtaking colours. The bucket list of great world destinations continues, with another list of magnificent places on Earth to explore.

But to participate in gardening and travel we

need to enjoy good health and, as always, our Wellbeing section shares an array of tips and hints to keep us good stead.

Our Living section also endeavours to reveal fresh ideas to enhance our lifestyles.

But here at Seniors News, we recognise the many aspects of life and this month in our Talk ‘n’ Thoughts section we highlight the HILDA report, a survey that has been tracking particular families since 2001, in order to gather social and economic data that may ultimately influence key government decision-makers.

It’s not all good news and we stand with National Seniors and The Benevolent Society campaign to improve the pension.

I trust you will enjoy our range of stories.

Gail

CONTACT US General Manager Geoff Crockett – 07 5430 1006 geoff.crockett@news.com.au Editor Gail Forrer – 07 5435 3203 gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Executive 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.

10th birthday proof book stores still rule

WELL READ: Palmira Wilkie and Rachel Burgoine with Annie Grossman, of Annie's Books on Peregian, which celebrates its 10th birthday this month.

Photo: Ann Rickard

IN AN era when bookshops are struggling to compete with the popularity of online reading, it is heartening to see one small village bookshop not only surviving but growing.

Annie’s Books on Peregian celebrates its 10th birthday this month.

After 10 years in the village centre of Peregian, the book store has become synonymous with good reading, author events and a place to stop for a chat.

Owner Annie Grossman took on the challenge to

open a book store a decade ago knowing it was a risk but treating it as something she simply had to do.

“One day visiting the shops at my local Peregian Beach Village I saw a tiny shop to rent,” she said.

“I thought about the joys of living and working in Peregian and thought it was worth the risk. I had a lot of experience in book detection and in running events, skills I knew I could transfer to my own operation.

“Peregian has a very

tight and passionate community who want to preserve our natural attractions.”

Ms Grossman has hosted some memorable events in her time.

“I have welcomed some truly wonderful guests,” she said.

“In partnership with my friends at Noosa Library Service we recently hosted large events with Helen Garner and Tex Perkins and with Tim Winton two years ago.

“I have had enormous crowds on my footpath for events with surfer Tom

Carroll and musician Richard Clapton, as well as large and lively events with best-selling authors Jane Harper, Annah Faulkner, Michael Robotham, Inga Simpson, Shelley Davidow, Bob Irwin, Fiona McIntosh, Sallyanne Atkinson, Kerry-Anne Kennerley and Phil Jarratt, to name just a handful. There are many, many more.”

As well as stocking the latest releases, Ms Grossman has a talent for tracking down hard-to-find books, many of them out of print.

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MUCH APPRECIATED: South Australian Governor, His Excellency Hieu Van Le AC and Mrs Van Le in the grounds of Government House.

Photo: AAP / Dean Martin

Fair-go start for Governor

“G’DAY mate! Welcome to Australia.”

The shouted greeting wasn’t anything like what Hieu Van Le AC and his wife Lan expected to hear when they fearfully arrived in Australia.

They arrived in 1977 as part of the early wave of Vietnamese refugees, huddled in a 15m wooden fishing boat with 40 other people. The trip was “horrendous”.

After weeks at sea and violent rejection by coast guards along the way, the refugees arrived in the pitch dark at Melville

Island.

In heavy dawn fog of the following day and with grave doubts as to how Australian officialdom would receive them, their tattered boat chugged clumsily into Darwin Harbour, exhausted by the long journey.

“All of a sudden, coming towards us was the sound of an outboard motor,” Mr Le said.

In the distance was a fast approaching tinnie with two blokes resplendent in singlets and shorts, hats, white zinc noses, beer cans in hand and fishing rods perched on the stern.

“As they got close to

our hull one of them raised his stubbie up, as if proposing a toast, and shouted out,‘g’day mate!

Welcome to Australia’.”

Every day for the last 41 years, the 64-year-old reminds himself of that greeting.

“It was the first experience I had with Australian people and it made a deep impression.” he said.

“I knew instantly we had arrived in a welcoming country, one where a laconic, easy-going attitude was the promise of a ‘fair go’.

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Le now a community leader FROM PAGE 3 of boat people like us was considered a significant event.”

Mr Le landed in Australia at age 23, armed only with a bright mind and a firm belief in making the best of what was in front of him. His journey has been one of persistence and resilience.

His life, both then and now, has had many facets. After escaping the ravages of the Vietnam War, he completed two Adelaide University degrees before working as a senior corporate regulator.

Prior to becoming South Australia’s Governor, Mr Le also served for several years as member of the South Australian Multicultural and Ethnic Commission (SAMEAC).

His personal, long-term, mission through these roles has been to promote Australia’s cultural diversity and harmony.

Prior to 1977 Australia was populated largely by people of Anglo-Celtic and European backgrounds.

Then in the ’70s came the large waves of

immigrants from South East Asia. These immigrants are now ageing into their senior years.

In his previous roles with SAMEAC, Mr Le noticed some important challenges ahead for ageing immigrants, particularly where English is not their first language.

“Over the years, migrants have come to our shores from all corners of the world,” he said.

“Each of these may have its own cultural beliefs, traditions, practices, traditional medicines and circumstances that need to be taken into account in our aged care and health system.

“Some people may revert to a place of comfort, returning to their mother tongue or preferring their traditional food and customs.

“For many cultures, the concept of nursing homes or intensive care, which is given to elders in our society, are quite different experiences to those found in their native countries.

“In many cultures, older

A FAIR GO FOR ALL: SA Governor Hieu Van Le AC with Tina Wang, Rui Love, Alice Li, Tian Love, Payel Rahman and Kylie Oyama.

Photo: Calum Robertson people stay in their home, in the extended family until they pass away, surrounded by the children, grandchildren and even their great-grandchildren.

“The warmth of being surrounded by family members and the ambience of the bustle of daily activities plays an important part in their later lives.”

Mr Le points to the busy lifestyles that people lead today, leaving many time-poor due to pressures of work, or

running a business, raising a young family, and the demands of constant and instant news and communications.

“People may, in some circumstance, have very little time for themselves let alone for their family and elderly parents,” he said.

“This demand on their time, and many other pressures, means that trying to find a way to make it easier for everybody is to place a loved one’s care into someone else’s hands.

“The challenge is that their parents and grandparents may in some circumstances feel they are a visitor rather than an integral part of the family at the very time they should be enjoying the fruits of their working life and the happiness that brings.”

Mr Le and his wife have two adult sons of whom they are very proud.

Having cared for his own mother who lived until her 90s, Mr Le is well aware of the demands that brings both

emotionally and physically in wanting to provide the best support for them.

“Having experienced that, as parents we don’t want to impose a burden on our sons,” he said.

“We fully understand the pressures they would be under.”

He smiles and chuckles when he adds “Lan and I would, of course, one day, love to have some grandchildren; no pressure”.

Mr Le has enjoyed every phase of his life and appreciated the many experiences they have brought, even when confronted with adversity.

“I believe there is a strength and resilience deep in everybody. It comes to the fore when challenges provide an opportunity for it to shine through,” Mr Le said.

He still has a journey ahead in which he hopes to “continue to do the best I can and enjoy a fulfilling life, at every stage of the journey”.

And he will follow his passion of helping to make Australia’s egalitarian society even better, fairer and more compassionate.

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Best in Qld film go a little bold

EIGHT Queensland filmmakers will be given the chance to turn their bold ideas into age-friendly films thanks to the Palaszczuk Government’s B.OLD short film competition.

Minister for Seniors Coralee O’Rourke announced the B.OLD short film competition winners at Parliament House and praised the ideas they put forward.

“This inaugural competition has been an overwhelming success so far, with an outstanding 40 entries received from filmmakers across Queensland,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“It’s particularly fitting for us to be making this announcement during Queensland Seniors Week.

“These eight winning short film ideas truly embody the aim of this competition, which is to show that older Queenslanders are capable of much more than society sometimes gives them credit for, and celebrate their achievements and contributions to our communities.”

The winning films to be developed as part of the B.OLD short film competition include En Pointe – a film about a 72-year-old ballet dancer sharing her life journey and love of dance.

There is also The Mantra of Wise John – a film about 90-year-old John Rigby who took up natural bodybuilding at age 85.

The winning B.OLD short film competition entries will debut at a premiere event in November, before being screened at film festivals across Queensland in late 2018 and 2019.

Visit communities.qld. gov.au/BOLD2018.

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Blokes go head-on Survivors urge others to get their prostate checked now

Tracey Johnstone THEY’RE everyday blokes with a confronting story to tell. Chris Warnes and Jon Sayer have survived prostate cancer and they want other men to hear their message – get checked now.

The two sailors have been friends for many years since they moved from New Zealand to set up their new lives in Queensland.

Life has been about hard work and downtime on the ocean for these blokes.

Chris has his own earthmoving business while Jon designs and builds offshore racing yachts and sleek powerboats.

What neither gave the slightest thought to was that they could end up a statistic – one in five men are diagnosed with prostate cancer before the age of 85.

But, for Chris and Jon, other than being over 50, there was no other risk factors for them – no family history of the disease, no high fat and low vegetables diet, no high testosterone levels, no obesity. So why them?

Chris, now 72, was diagnosed with prostate cancer at age 62.

“It was the funny thing with me,” Chris said.

“I had absolutely no symptoms whatsoever, nothing. It was just because I got checked every six months that they picked it up through blood checks.”

Those checks were being done because of his

SURVIVORS: Prostate cancer survivors Chris Warnes and Jon Sayer. age.

“Because I was aware of it, I kept doing it.”

Jon, 62, was diagnosed “one year, four months, seven days, three hours and two minutes ago”.

“I was the same as Chris,” Jon added.

He was aware that he was at the age where prostate cancer could be an issue for him.

“I even changed to a lady doctor as I thought, no way did I want a man playing with his fingers anywhere around my bottom because I thought that was the only way you could find out.”

The GP organised a full blood test. The result apparently showed some elevation of his PSA, but as nothing was said to him he assumed his health was still OK. It was only when three years later he went to another doctor for a check-up that the past blood test, plus the new

one, both showed an elevated PSA. Chris choose a full prostatectomy.

“I didn’t even consider radiation,” he said.

“At my age, it was the safest and I believe the best thing. I was very lucky as all my cancers were on the outside of my prostate. One had left my prostate and was heading towards my spine.

“I would be dead by now had I not been checked regularly.”

Jon made the same choice.

“A few things I have since learnt that I wish I had been warned about earlier because I went through a fitness regime and certain diets, foods and alkalines to take the sugars and acids out of my diet, and maybe I could have attempted to fight it a different way for a while before I had the full procedure because it is a very slow growing cancer,

nine times out of 10,” Jon said.

Jon is calling for more groups where men can openly discuss what they are going through.

When he first found out about his diagnosis he turned to Chris and another friend, David Adams, because he knew they had experienced the prostate cancer journey and could him understand about what, when and how it was all going to be dealt with.

“I just feel it’s a bit of under the table, taboo subject with men,” Jon said.

He then headed to Facebook and revealed his story.

“It’s a bit of a male stigma thing attached to it and lot of people don’t talk about it,” Jon said.

“I was surprised the number of my friends who had been through it and I didn’t know until I opened up about it. They

Photo: Tracey Johnstone

congratulated me and gave me words of wisdom.

“You need to talk about it more and go and get checked. Particularly, ask about family history of it and if that is the case you have got to start doing it at 40, not 60.

“The strange thing it wasn’t in any of my relatives and my dad was one of 11 boys, and none had it. I have warned by son already.”

Chris is keeping to a healthy eating regime, he keeps up his six-monthly checks and slowed down, a bit, on the beer consumption.

“The strongest message I can say to anyone is don’t be frightened to go to your doctor and get your blood tests. And, if there is any doubt, get a digital check.

It’s better than dying.”

Talk to your GP and go to ausprostatecancer. com.au or prostate.org. au.

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Choir sets sail to sing

Come Sail Away at Caloundra ‘ADMIRAL’ Kim Kirkman will be conducting the crew of the Caloundra Chorale in a nautically themed concert titled Come Sail Away.

Featuring songs inspired by sailing including pieces made famous by Enya, Styx and Rod Stewart.

“I’ve just taken up sailing with my daughter and so it is all I think about in my spare time,” says Kim, who conducts seven choirs on the coast.

“There are so many great pieces out there and I’ve even written one myself.”

The concert will be at the Caloundra Uniting Church, Queen Street on Friday, September 7 at 7pm and Saturday, September 8 at 2pm.

Adults $22, Concession $20, Groups, Members, and FOC $18, Children $10 (includes supper or afternoon tea).

For bookings, phone 5491 4937.

SET SAIL: Caloundra Chorale present a nautically themed concert titled Come Sail Away at the Caloundra Uniting Church on Friday, September 7 and Saturday, September 8.

Step out together and battle women’s cancers CANCER Council Queensland is calling on the Sunshine Coast community to lace up and walk with purpose next month to create hope for every woman’s future!

Registrations have officially opened for the 2018 Walk for Women’s Cancers family fun-walk set to take place on the Sunshine coast on Saturday, September 8 at Alexandra Headland.

Participants can either take part in a 3km or 6km walk.

The walk is one of five being held across the state, raising funds for Cancer Council Queensland’s work in breast and gynaecological cancers.

The event will begin at 7am, with the walk taking off from Alex Skate Park (Alexandra Headland) at

8am.

Walk for Women’s Cancers was first launched on the Sunshine Coast in 2014 by Cassandra Munson and has since grown into a much-anticipated fundraising initiative right across Queensland.

Local men, women and children are encouraged to dress up in their brightest pink gear and unite for the walk to make a difference.

Cancer Council Queensland CEO Chris McMillan encouraged locals to sign up for the Sunshine Coast Walk for Women’s Cancers and to give hope to the women in the community affected by cancer.

“Participating in Walk for Women’s Cancers is a great way to show your support for all women

ONE FOR ALL: The 2018 Walk for Women’s Cancers family fun-walk will be held on Saturday, September 8 at Alexandra Headland.

Photo: Gary Mills affected by cancer,” Ms McMillan said.

“One in six Queensland women are diagnosed with breast or gynaecological cancers in their lifetime – these women are our mothers,

sisters, daughters and friends.

“Getting involved may seem like a small way to make a difference, but your contribution makes a lasting impact to women touched with cancer.”

In the past 25 years, more than 49,600 Queenslanders have survived a diagnosis of women’s cancer.

“Thanks to advances in treatment options, screening programs and prevention, more Queenslanders are alive today,” Ms McMillan said.

“However, some gynaecological cancers have no screening programs and vague symptoms, making them hard to detect and diagnose.

“This is why we need your help, to help us fund more research and save more women’s lives.

“Walk with us this year at Walk for Women’s Cancers and help us raise funds so we can ensure the women you love have a cancer free future.”

All funds raised at

Sunshine Coast Walk for Women’s Cancers help fund Cancer Council Queensland’s work in cancer research, prevention and support.

Locals are invited to register individually or as a team and walk either 3km ($25) or 6km ($30).

Under 18s are free.

For more information go to walkforwomen.org.au or phone 1300 656 585.

All those who register for the event are encouraged to join the official Sunshine Coast Walk for Women’s Cancers Facebook page, for updated event information and community discussion.

For more information about Cancer Council Queensland, visit cancerqld.org.au or phone 131 120.

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SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Pension poverty is in the spotlight

Talk 'n' thoughts

Gail Forrer Group Editor

HARDSHIP: National Seniors and The Benevolent Society are calling on all Australians to support the Fix Pension Poverty campaign.

Photo: Thinkstock

‘‘

The average time a 60 to 64-year-old spends on Newstart is 187 weeks.

NATIONAL Seniors Association together with The Benevolent Society are conducting a joint Fix Pension Poverty campaign.

Last month, the importance of their campaign was further highlighted with the release of the 2018 HILDA Report.

Started in 2001, the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia Survey is a household-based panel study that collects valuable information about economic and personal well-being, labour market dynamics and family life.

The study surveys the same households and individuals each year.

This way it can show how

the lives of a cross-section of Australians are changing over time.

The survey, a record of how we live, shows researchers many things: for example, how economics affects our lives or how choices made in the past lead to particular life outcomes.

The content provides policy-makers with unique insights about Australia, enabling them to make informed decisions across a range of policy areas, including health, education and social services.

It is published by the Melbourne Institute and funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Social Services.

NATIONAL Seniors chief advocate Ian Henschke said the recently released HILDA report highlighted inequality and poverty among older Australians.

Mr Henschke said the report reflected some key

concerns voiced in last year’s National Seniors Advocacy Survey, including the rising cost of energy and housing stress as growing concerns.

The 2018 HILDA Report also highlighted the growing issue of inequality among older Australians.

It seems among seniors the gap between the “have a lot” and the “haven’t got much” is growing.

The over-65s age group is the only one where inequality has increased significantly over the past 15 years Older single women, older single men and older couples are the three family types most likely to be experiencing income poverty in Australia.

Older women have experienced the steepest increase in income poverty since 2015.

The latest Department of Social Services data reveals that more people aged 55-64 are on

Newstart than those aged 25-34 and they are on the payment for much longer.

They are also spending their retirement savings before they retire because they can’t live on Newstart without experiencing financial hardship.

The average time a 60 to 64-year-old spends on Newtstart is 187 weeks (3.6 years).

Conversely, the average time a 25 to 29-year-old spends on Newstart is 104 weeks (two years).

The number of people aged 55-64 on Newstart is 174,532, compared to 156,664 aged 25-34.

According to the OECD, 26 per cent of older Australians are experiencing poverty, compared to the OECD average of 13 per cent.

In the run-up to the federal election and beyond, National Seniors and The Benevolent Society are calling on all Australians to support the Fix Pension Poverty campaign.

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SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Community notes

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

Kawana Waters THE Royal Australian Air Force Association Kawana Waters branch is currently seeking membership from both male and female ex-members of the RAAF. The aim is to promote and maintain welfare and benefits of serving members, ex-members of the RAAF and Her Majesty’s Air Forces and Allied Forces and their dependants. The branch also conducts: Monthly subsidised lunches; Membership is $25 per calendar year; Bus tours of an interesting nature and many other types of social activities. The branch meets every

second Saturday of each month at the Kawana Waters Life Saving Club House at Pacific Blvd, Buddina at 10am hours.

So why not become involved, if you are an ex-Air Force person living in our community? Phone the secretary on 5443 2775.

VINNIES BOOK AND PLANT SALE

ST VINCENT de Paul will be holding this event at The Good Shepherd Centre, Nanyima Street, Buddina on Saturday, September 15 from 8am-3pm and Sunday, September 16 from 9am-2pm. For avid readers, there will be a

great selection of new and pre-loved fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, as well as DVDs and much more. For all the gardeners, you will find some beautiful plants ready for spring planting.

Every purchase enables Vinnies to provide assistance to those in need in our community.

So come grab yourself a bargain. For donations of books, DVDs and plants phone Maria on 5478 2954.

MELANOMA PATIENTS ASSOCIATION

THIS is a support group for people who have have been diagnosed with melanoma. We meet on

the third Friday of each month in RSL House, 106 Memorial Drive, Cottontree, next to the RSL. The meeting starts at 10am and is there to support people coping with Melanoma. Next meeting is Friday, September 21 at 10am with guest speaker from Cittamani in Palmwoods.

Phone Christine on 0412 689 546 or go to the website melanoma patients.org.au.

SENIOR’S LUNCH ST PETER’S ANGLICAN CHURCH

ST PETER’S is having a Senior’s lunch on Friday, September 21 at 11am.

As well as a tasty lunch

for $5 there are craft items for sale. Money raised goes to our Pastural Care Ministry, providing a helping hand for people, young or old, who find it difficult to cope in these challenging times. Phone Pat on 5444 0830. St Peter’s is a friendly church on the corner of Church Street and Beach Road, Maroochydore. Our Church Services are 7am and 9am Sunday with a shorter service at 9.30am Wednesday.

BUDERIM GARDEN CLUB THE next monthly meeting will be held at Buderim War Memorial Hall at 2pm, Friday,

September 14. Guest speaker will be club member Meredith Walker AM who will talk about Queensland Bottle Trees, including their occurrence, uses and commemorative plantings, including those found around Buderim.

Elaine Davidson will be the club speaker and she will present episode two of her talk on down sizing and care for planted pots.

There will be the monthly flower competition and Manawee plant of the month. Members are encouraged to come early for plant stalls, raffle and seed bank. Phone President John Lyon on 0448 714 561.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

Be part of a growing number of Sunshine Coast listeners tuning their radio to

You can support the station by becoming a Sunshine FM subscriber.

Please call one of our friendly volunteers.

5450 1049 or visit our website

www.sunshinefm.com.au

6624514aa

RAAF

WINNERS ARE GRINNERS: Sponsor Niagara’s Heather Marshall with Ladies Fiesta Fours winners Neeta Chant (skip), Desley Williams, Shirley Cornish, Mary Geary and Jeanette Morrow (Woombye Ladies President).

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

COMMUNITY

FROM PAGE 12

activity for all ages keen to exercise the mind and body. Mondays from 12.15-2pm. Sport and Recreation Centre, corner of Currimundi Road and Ilya Street, Currimundi.

Cost $10. Phone Ute Woods on 0412 804 499.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED IN NAMBOUR

THE Salvation Army Family Store at Nambour is on the hunt for volunteers to help out in the retail shop on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, If you have time in your life to spare and would like to give back to your local community and be part of a great team, volunteer for The Salvation Army at Nambour. Not only will you be giving back to your local community, you will have the opportunity to make new friends, share a coffee during the day and assist the Salvos. Phone 5441 6458 or drop in and see our Store manager Monday to Friday.

PUBLIC SPEAKING

FUN, friendly learning about Public Speaking with an International club that has 345,000 members in 142 countries. Meeting on the first, third and fifth Thursday’s each month from 9-11.30am at Buddina. Phone Monika on 0411 533 484 or email vickijohnson@tpg.com.au.

WOOMBYE BOWLS CLUB WELL Done Woombye!

Another successful day of

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MARJIE’S WELCOME TO WALKING

GUILD GUYS: Incoming president Rob Otto with John Muller from Blackall Range Woodcrafters Guild.

SES David and Stuart were presented with a certificate of appreciation by Pine Rivers VIEW Club’s Carol Wyer.

competitive bowls was held at Woombye Bowls Club recently with 96 Sunshine Coast lady bowlers competing in our Ladies Fiesta Fours.

Congratulations to our overall winners, with two wins plus 33, a combined team from Mooloolaba, Club Maroochy and Caloundra. Many compliments came from bowlers for our great greens, food, raffle prizes and friendship, which is what we strive for, even though we are only a small hinterland club. A big thank you goes to our members, both men and ladies, who helped and donated both raffle prizes and yummy food for which we have a reputation.

Also, to our hard-working green keeper, Geoff

morning at 9.30am-12.30pm in the Hall adjacent to Kawana Library. Cost $5 each morning. $5 yearly membership for those aged from 55-105 years.

Phone Selima on (07) 5452 5979.

Steele and our umpires on the day. Many thanks go to our sponsor, Heather Marshall from Niagara, who gave several tired bowlers some of her specialised massages during the day.

Congratulations to all bowlers who attended and competed in good spirits with friendly rivalry. Our next big day is a Mixed Seafood event on Sunday, September 23. Phone our club after 3pm on (07) 5294 5245.

KAWANA SENIOR CITIZENS INC

COME and Join us for a morning of fun and friendship with entertainment, indoor bowls, hoy, bingo, morning tea, lucky door prizes. We meet each Thursday

SAFEGUARD YOUR FUTURE

WHETHER you are writing a will, appointing a Power of Attorney or just getting your affairs in order, it pays to be in the know. Join legal professionals from Suncoast Community Legal for an informative session on how to protect your interests. Learn the best ways to ensure substitute decision-makers make the right decisions while you

are alive; Make sure your assets are really going where you want them to when you pass away; Avoid wasting time and money on unnecessary legal fees; Help your loved ones avoid messy legal disputes down the track; Registration is essential; Free to attend. Nambour: Tuesday, September 4 at 10am; Beerwah: Friday, September 7 at 1pm; Coolum: Tuesday, September 11 at 10am; Maroochydore: Wednesday, September 12 at 10.30am and Maleny: Monday, September 17 at 2pm.

Phone (07) 5475 8989.

LINE DANCING CLASS

NEWCOMERS with little or no experience. A fun

ENJOY healthy exercise at your own pace for fitness, fun and friendship, combines Riverside Walks with Exercise Interludes (along the South Bank of the Maroochy River). Meet at Cod-hole boat ramp, Vehicle park, Bradman Avenue (upstream of the Motorway Bridge). From 9am on Mondays and Tuesdays. Exercise makes you feel good. Phone 5448 4229 for more information.

POMONA COUNTRY MARKETS

THE best little market on the Sunshine Coast.

Every second and fourth Saturday from 7am-noon.

Lots of fun for everyone.

Kids activities, performers chalk board, street entertainment, stalls galore, buskers and stallholders welcome.

Phone (07) 5485 2330.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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COMMUNITY

FROM PAGE 13

PLEASANT SUNDAY AFTERNOON CONCERT

CO-HOSTED by Bev Gourlay and Neil Booth this October concert will be the last of the series for 2018 so don’t miss out on being charmingly entertained by well-known ‘Tis’ band leader Darrell Watson, harmonious duets by Bev and her husband Art Schouten, promising young singer Alex Chambers, talented soprano Tracy Stoddart, the accomplished Maria Lindsay, a delightful wind quartet with Barry Rodgers plus three members of the Buderim Concert Band, and of course skilful tickling of the ivories by Neil Booth and Beryl Meyers. On Sunday, October 7 from 2pm at CCSA Hall, Nutley Street, Caloundra.

Admission $10, Friends of Chorale $5, Afternoon tea included. Arrive around 1.30pm. Inquiries with Ann on 5437 2719.

GRIEF AND LOSS PROGRAM

HAVE you experienced the loss of a loved one? A Grief and Loss Program to help you work through your grief commences on Wednesday, September 26 from 10am-noon at the Buderim Uniting Church

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS Hall, corner of Gloucester Road and King Street, Buderim. The program runs for two hours a week over eight weeks. This is a free Blue Care program.

For registration phone Aurilea Augustine on 0439 768 394 or email aaugustine5 @bigpond.com.

CALOUNDRA SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB

OUR Monday program includes Indoor bowls, Bolivia, Whist, and 500.

Also Tai Chi exercises (all standing up) are easy to do just following the instructor. On Wednesdays we have musical entertainment, Whist, Mah Jong, Indoor bowls, Hoy and 500. On Thursdays a second tai chi exercise class. Bus trips once a month.

Membership $10. Entry for members $5 for each activity. Please phone (07) 5438 1403 for details or if you would like a copy of the weekly program with times, email raymoni@optus net.com.au. Uniting Church hall, 56C Queen Street, Caloundra.

AGLOW INTERNATIONAL

AGLOW Sunshine Coast branch will next meet on Friday, September 14 commencing at 9.30am

HELP: Volunteers with (middle) Manager Dessi Mitzeva from the Salvation Army Family Store at Nambour. at Flame Tree Baptist Church hall, 27 Coes Creek Road, Burnside.

Entry is $8 and includes morning tea. Come along, bring a friend and enjoy worship and an inspirational message.

Women and men are welcome. Phone Melva on 5443 5752 or Dorothy on 5476 4190.

BLACKALL RANGE WOODCRAFTERS GUILD INC.

AT THE recent Annual General Meeting of the Blackall Range Woodcrafters Guild President John Muller handed over the reins to incoming president Rob Otto. John, a tireless worker, had led the Guild for three years, during which time he saw the

erection of the “new” shed come to fruition. The shed was one of many built for service during the Vietnam War and was gifted to the Guild, still in its packing cases, by the Australian Army. Rob, a retired furniture maker, has contributed greatly to the success of the Guild and, like John, is liked and admired by all woodies.

Also at the AGM Life Memberships were presented to John Muller, Brian Harris and Hugh McKenna.

PROBUS CLUBS

Caloundra 86 MEMBERS of the Probus Club of Caloundra 86 recently visited Parliament House in Brisbane being hosted by the Member for

Caloundra, Mark McArdle MP who explained the history and function of the historic building.

Afterwards we enjoyed a barbecue lunch on the deck overlooking the Brisbane River and South Bank. We moved onto the Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens to enjoy the beautiful areas, the display at The Planetarium and afternoon tea. We have more great club activities planned and our meetings are on the third Tuesday of the month.

Phone our membership officer Terry on 0418 749 042.

Coolum Beach Combined WE ARE for active retired or semi retired seniors. Our purpose is to promote fellowship, friendship and fun. Our meetings are on the first Tuesday of the month. Our next meeting is on Tuesday, September 4 at 9.15am at the Uniting Church, Elizabeth Street, Coolum Beach.

Visitors/guests are welcome. September speaker is Dr Seovaid Melville, botanist and environmental consultant.

Contact Averil on 0429 516 788 or Mandy on 0401 976 062. Next outing: Picnic in the Park on September 18 in Mooloolaba. Picnic in the Park is a car pooling and BYO event (Parkyn Pde).

Currimundi Combined Inc. SENIORS Week was celebrated with a display on two days at the Stocklands Shopping Centre by members of the Probus Club of Currimundi Combined Inc of what our club means to Seniors and Retirees. This was met with enthusiasm by shoppers, by showing them a slide show of activities we provide for their pleasure and entertainment. Craft ladies created wonderful table decorations of bottles with internal lighting, just some of the creations they excel at.

SUPPORT FARMERS AT COOROY RSL FUNDRAISER

FUNDRAISING for our drought affected farmers is definitely topical at present, with farmers facing ruin across New South Wales and Queensland in what some are calling the worst drought in living memory.

Cooroy RSL are helping the fundraising efforts by holding a drought fundraiser on Saturday, September 15. Fantastic local band, Miss Leading will be playing starting with a few country songs to kick the night off before CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

COMMUNITY

FROM PAGE 14 heading into their usual soulful rock grooves.

Everyone is encouraging to come dressed in their best farmer outfit and there will be a prize on the night for best costume.

You can support this event by booking a table and donating on the night.

Any businesses who would like to contribute a prize to be raffled on the night can contact Kerry or Helen at Cooroy RSL on (07) 5447 6131 or email manager@cooroy rsl.com.au.

VIEW CLUBS

Buderim PLEASE consider attending our club’s events and help raise funds for educating students of underprivileged families.

There is always an interesting guest speaker at our meetings, also there is a social event held on the third Wednesday of the month.

The next lunch and meeting is on Wednesday, September 5 at 11am for a 11.30am start at Buderim Tavern. Cost is $28. RSVP Pat Cooney on (07) 5445 6329 by September 2.

Caloundra Evening TRIVIA was the name of the game when members made the most of the

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refurbished Cooroy Memorial Hall. Come and see beautiful examples of woodturning, furniture, box-making, marquetry, Intarsia, pyrography, wood art and much more. There will demonstrations of woodworking and milling timber, with high quality timber on sale for special prices. From 8.30am on September 28 and 29 at the Cooroy Memorial Hall.

For more go to cooroora woodworkersclub.com.

SPECIAL GUEST: Judy McArdle welcomes Liz Nevin to the Caloundra VIEW Club dinner and trivia night.

Caloundra Evening VIEW members Fleur Morrissey, Betty Brie and Carole Ireland at the club’s recent dinner.

opportunity to ‘kick up their heels’ at the recent monthly dinner. The social evening was enjoyed by over 80 ladies who vied to air their knowledge in a very light hearted competitive atmosphere which featured some ‘desperate’ haggling for points. Quizmaster May Thomas posed numerous tricky questions to test the memories of opposing teams. The winners of each round celebrated enthusiastically and even the ‘The Naughty Corner’ team were able to celebrate some correct answers. Phone club secretary Sue on 0403 504 408.

Maroochydore OUR next luncheon will be held on Friday, September 28 at the

Mudjimba on Monday evenings 7pm and Wednesdays 9am. At Woombye Hall on Mondays 9am and Thursdays 8.45am at Yandina Hall. Keep your mind active and body fit with dance. Fun fitness friendship and great music. Phone Barbara on 0407 733 280.

Maroochydore Surf Life Saving Club. The cost of the two course meal is $30. Newcomers are always welcome and if you would like to attend a meeting please phone Sandi on 0429 022 033.

Guest speaker is Professor Roland Sussex OAM. Professor Roly Sussex and his knowledge of the English language would be well known to many ABC listeners who share his love of language. In addition to his talkback program on language and linguistics, Roly writes a weekly column for The Courier Mail.

BEGINNERS LINEDANCING AT NORTH Shore Community Centre

THEOSOPHICAL SOCIETY SUNSHINE COAST

WE MEET every Thursday from 7pm at the Croquet Club, Syd Lingard Drive, Buderim. Donation $4. Join us in a non-sectarian inclusive way, to be inspired, to explore the mysteries and meaning of life according to the ancient wisdom, alive still today. Join us

every second Thursday for our group meditation evening with a short review of our practice.

Every third Thursday is library night, this month with Barry Bowden’s talk, ‘Heaven World or Devachan, Heaven in an after-death State’, followed by a Members Only Saturday event with Barry Bowden. All Thursday meetings are open to the public except for the members only study group on the last Thursday of the month.

Phone Pam on 0427 713 061.

WOODCRAFT SHOW IN COOROY THE Cooroora Woodworkers Club will hold its annual Woodcraft Show in the newly

SOCIAL BALLROOM DANCING AT POMONA

EVERY Tuesday evening from 7-9.30pm, Pat and Norm Young organise a social evening at the Pomona Memorial School of Arts Hall. The cost is $4, which includes supper. It is a very enjoyable evening as Pat and Norm provide New Vogue and Old Time dancing. Come and be a spectator and see if you will enjoy it. Everyone is welcome. Phone 5485 2007 for more.

ONE DAY ONE CHOIR

SEPTEMBER 21 is International Peace Day, and in 2014 Londoner Jane Hanson created One Day, One Choir. This is a CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

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SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Classical Corner WITH QUEENSLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

AN ORCHESTRA FOR EVERYONE WHETHER YOU COME...

To experience the big emotions of a symphony… To watch a great movie come to life…

To feel the room shake from that massive brass sound… To witness a world-class musician perform a breathtaking solo…

To experience the familiar… To try something new…

To relax… To be roused… To feel your spine tingle…

Whatever the reason, whoever you are Queensland Symphony Orchestra is an ORCHESTRA FOR EVERYONE

Music Director Alondra de la Parra

Our set series packages allow you to enjoy ticket savings and the same great seat for every concert in the beautiful QPAC Concert Hall. The bigger the package, the more you will save.

In 2019 we offer the following set-series packages: Maestro Package Enjoy orchestral favourites by the greatest composers who ever lived, performed by the world’s finest soloists and the musicians of Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Choose from 10 or 12 evening concerts.

Morning Masterworks Package Delight in five rousing 90 minute concerts in a convenient Friday morning timeslot. Join us before each concert for a complimentary morning tea.

Fridays at 11am.

Music on Sundays Package Five concerts featuring a mix of shorter classical works, hosted by the irrepressible Guy Noble.

If you like your orchestral music fun and entertaining, these are the concerts for you. Sundays at 11.30am.

Choral Package Two spectacular concerts featuring a world class lineup of soloists and Brisbane’s best choirs.

We also offer the following flexible packages: Chamber Players Package Get up close to the music-making in these intimate concerts, with music hand-picked by our musicians, held in our very own performance studio.

Sundays at 3pm.

Choose-Your-Own Package Do you have a favourite soloist? Or prefer music by certain composers?

Or just have a busy schedule? Whatever your reason, you’re flexible! With ChooseYour-Own packages, select three or more concerts from our 2019 season and enjoy discounted tickets and subscriber benefits.

Phone (07) 3833 5044 Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm to request a copy of our brochure, or visit qso.com.au to find out more. << Renée Jones

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In 2019 Queensland Symphony Orchestra will perform something for everyone. There will be mighty symphonies, intimate chamber music, captivating live movies, and much more. We will play music that spans the arc of history.

Whether you are new to orchestral music or have been part of our family for years, I am certain you will find much to look forward to.

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

POWERFUL PLAY COMES TO NAMBOUR

JOHN Pielmeier’s award-winning drama Agnes of God ran for 599 performances in its first Broadway release in 1982, and has been produced all around the world since then. Its enduring popularity lies not only in its riveting and suspenseful story, but in its ability to make the audience ask big questions, just as the characters in the play do.

A young nun (Genevieve Langford) stands accused of murdering her newborn infant in her room, and a court appointed psychiatrist (Naomi Clasholm) is sent to question whether she is mentally fit to be brought to trial. Mother Superior Miriam Ruth (Yvie Somerville) is concerned not only to protect Agnes, but also their cloistered way of life. But none of these characters is without a back story, and the investigation will rouse clashes and challenges for them all.

Want to find out why audiences have been intrigued by Agnes of God for so many years? This production by highly experienced director Judith Boyd (Calendar Girls, Hating Alison Ashley) will resonate with

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you for many years to come. Agnes of God opens on September 28 at 7.30pm and continues till October 6 at Lind Lane Theatre, 16 Mitchell Street, Nambour.

Bookings: go to indlane.com.au or phone 1300 732 764.

WICKED – THE UNTOLD STORY OF THE WITCHES OF OZ!

BROADWAY is alive and thriving on the Sunshine Coast. Don’t miss Little Seed Theatre Company’s production of Wicked for four performances only at The J Theatre Noosa. This production of Wicked will be magical and magnificent and hope you are able to come along, bring your families and friends, see a great show and be inspired – you are guaranteed to leave the theatre uplifted for sure.

Wicked is the most successful theatre production of its time anywhere in the world opened on Broadway in 2003 and unfolds the untold story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two young women who first meet as sorcery students at Shiz University: the blonde and very popular Glinda and a misunderstood green girl named Elphaba. At The J Theatre, 60 Noosa Drive,

What's on THE SUNSHINE COAST JAZZ CLUB

PREMIERE PERFORMANCE: The Clarence Jazz Men will be on the Sunshine Coast for the first time, appearing at the Caloundra Power Boat Club on Sunday, September 16.

Noosa Heads. Noosa Show Weekend – Friday, September 7 (2pm matinee and 6.30pm) and Saturday, September 8 (2pm matinee and 6.30pm). Ticket Price: $45 Adult / $38.50 Concession (Senior, Pensioner, Student) / $38.50 Groups 10+. Go to thej.com.au or phone (07) 5329 6560.

SUNSHINE COAST CONCERT BAND

COME along and enjoy a concert to celebrate Life and the achievements of Sailability Sunshine Coast. Join the Sunshine Coast Concert Band in an afternoon of fun, filled with music, song and dance, as they bring to life some of the unforgettable music that has filled our lives. Join singers Tanya McFadyen and Alan Winter, as they “rock” the

afternoon away. Special guest artist, Fiona Simpson MP. Enjoy That Old Time Rock n’ Roll, Pretty Woman, Cracklin Rosie and many more great hits pumped out by a great 40 piece concert band – Swing to I Won’t Dance, a Fred Astaire classic. An afternoon of sound to remember.

Sailability has had a great year to date with several hundred more experiences of “Freedom on the Water” for our clients with disabilities.

Saturday, September 15 at 2pm, Kawana Community Hall, Nanyima Street, Buddina. Adults only $15 including afternoon tea. A donation would be appreciated from children, disabled and carers. Bookings: Tickets available at the door. For information regarding future concerts,

go to sccb.org.au or phone Mark Dowsett on 0419 396 549.

WELSH SOCIETY OF THE SUNSHINE COAST

YOU are warmly invited to a spectacular Welsh Society sponsored afternoon programme of music and food. Our Annual Sunshine Coast Welsh Society Festival Of Music on Sunday, September 23 from 1.30pm, sharp at The Uniting Church, Queen Street, Caloundra. Our festival of music ‘cymanfa ganu’, wll have a superb afternoon tea to follow at only $15 per person (under 18s are free). Pay cash at the door. Only 300 seats so please consider.

Free parking. If you wish to reserve seats for groups, phone Jonathan Jones on 0413 085 838.

WE ARE proud to host the premiere appearance on the Sunshine Coast of the Clarence Jazz Men who will be performing at the Caloundra Power Boat Club on Sunday, September 16 from 2pm.

The Clarence Jazzmen have become an institution of good time jazz on the north coast of New South Wales.

They play the repertoire the old Australian jazz bands covered, popular show songs and jazz classics, from Buddy Bolden’s Blues of the 1920s to Mercy, Mercy, Mercy from the ’60s. The Sunshine Coast Jazz club is a non-profit organisation and is endeavouring to bring to the members and jazz lovers the best of the best. The show will be an afternoon of entertainment not to be missed. Phone Julie on 0412 789 957 and for tickets phone Carlyn on 0427 782 960 or email suncoastjazz2 @gmail.com. Cost is $22.50 for seniors and $25 for non-members.

The Judy Henzell 2018

Su nshine Melodies Concert Series FRANKLY SINATRA

Supported by Sunshine Coast Mayoral Orchestra

WED 10 OCTOBER - 11AM Australian music theatre star Philip Gould and award winning singer/actressMichelle Fitzmaurice team up to sing and dance their way through the hits of the man they called the ‘Chairman of The Board’ Frank Sinatra.

CHRISTMAS WITH KAREN KNOWLES

WED 12 DECEMBER - 11AM Gold and platinum award winner, Karen Knowles is one of Australia’s favourite singers and is coming to Caloundra for a special Christmas concert. Join Karen for a wonderful selection of her hits and your favourite Christmas songs.

$19.00 | Groups 10+ $17.50pp Complimentary morning tea is served at 10am

BOOKINGS: 07 5491 4240 | www.theeventscentre.com.au

The Events Centre, Caloundra

Wednesday 26 September at 7.30pm PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY

BOOKINGS: theeventscentre.com.au | 07 5491 4240

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COMMUNITY

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Our readers share their

Keen local gardeners share their spring tips

For the fertiliser Pat uses dynamic lifter but during summer she uses Osmocote granules or Seasol.

Living in a retirement village, her front gardens are always on display for the other residents.

They have open days and a Coffs Harbour spring gardening competition.

THANKS to our local gardening enthusiasts for sharing their top spring planting and growing tips.

Graham Rushton.

GRAHAM RUSHTON, 75, BUNDABERG

IT’S time to compost to boost the efficiency of the garden before starting your spring planting.

Graham’s compost has leaves from trees in his garden, dead-headed flowers and any other plants around the garden that need to be recycled.

To make the compost he uses his lawnmower.

He spreads everything out on a small patch of grass and then uses the lawnmower to cut it up to make the compost.

As he has chickens he also adds some of the soil from their yard.

Graham also adds good-quality potting mix and Rooster Booster. He spreads this mix over the vegetable garden and around the flowers.

If you live in an apartment, he suggests you hand-cut your dead-headed flowers, add some potting mix and very little Rooster Booster as it is quite strong – maybe just 10 or 12 pellets.

BLOOMING LOVELY: One of Buderim Orchid Grove garden’s glorious orchids.

Gwen Barnes.

GWEN BARNES, 66, TWEED HEADS

SPRINGTIME for roses means feeding, says Gwen.

She recommends that before you start you remove all the mulch you put on in winter to protect the plants.

If you leave it on they could end up with root rot or worse, little nasties crawling around that you don’t want. Then she creates air flow around the base of the plants.

If you find your roses have developed any scale, Gwen says spray them with eco oil.

This is the time when

roses are on their way to fabulous blooming and need lots of nutritional things to get them on their way.

A good general all-purpose feed will keep them happy.

You can give them some epsom salts and a little bone meal mixed up in about a quarter of a cup. Doing this may well boost them.

Gwen encourages seniors to enjoy the spring and look forward to awesome blooms. Gwen’s will be on display at the Annual Flower and Garden Show on September 29.

Kay Nesbitt.

FRAME D’ART / TROPHIES WON

KAY’S succulents are her passion. They are easy to grow, fairly hardy and produce glorious colours. At the start of spring, the first job is to trim the plants. Kay then has a very close look at all her plants, moving those that will benefit more from the summer sun and moving others than can sit happily in the shadier areas.

Some of her plants will be moved into a new pot.

She gives them a boost with a half succulent and half potting mix refresher, or uses that mix to top up her pots and garden plants.

Kay will cut a few pieces off some of her succulents, wash off the soil and put them in a vase that is about half full of water, where they can sit inside her house as a beautiful display for several months. Later on she will replant those cuttings in her garden.

ROBERT JANETZKI, 72, TOOWOOMBA

Pat Roser.

PAT ROSER, 87, COFFS HARBOUR

IT’S time to prepare the ground for spring annuals – primulas, marigolds and pansies, Pat says.

She digs quickly over the soil, digging in the mulch that has been sitting there during winter.

Then Pat gets the fertiliser ready for when she starts planting.

Pat will pop in the fertiliser and the garden compost she has been making before putting in the plants.

Once that is done she will put on a layer of lucerne to protect the plants.

JUST in time for the Toowoomba Garden Festival, which runs from September 21-30, Robert recommends for bromeliad enthusiasts the following spring tips.

Start with removing all dead leaves, particularly from the base as the debris can rot the plant if it’s not flushed out.

Next step is to fertilise with a slow release with no copper in it, an organic fertiliser or a seaweed like Seasol or Organic Extra.

A good check for disease such as scale or mealy bug is also worth doing.

The pups, or new growth, can then be removed from the mother.

But before they are planted in pots or in the garden, he recommends letting them sit somewhere dry for about 24 hours to help avoid disease or rot getting into the root of the pup.

Preserve your precious memories in a frame - and still have accessibility to them

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Have your medals professionally cleaned and mounted: • Swing Mount • Court Mount • Ribbon Bars

Preserving Your Memories and Achievements

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Replica Medals, Miniatures & Badges - We can create miniatures for you to share with your grandchildren

KAY NESBITT, 71, GOLD COAST

Robert Janetzki.

Remembering

TFM Awards Formally known as Same Friendly people, Same Great Service, JuSt a new name

Photo: Chris O’Dempsey

Coast Guard Caloundra’s Memorial Wall is located on Caloundra Headland. It offers relatives and friends of those commemorated on the Wall an opportunity for peaceful reflection. Coast Guard Caloundra is committed to maintaining the Wall, forever. Plaques are available from Coast Guard Caloundra. All enquiries welcome.

Memorial Wall Enquiries:

0439 913 333

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

COMMUNITY

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top spring garden tips verbena and petunia plants. She tries to use small plants so she can get lots of them in a pot, leaving room to add in each pot a few summer edible plants such as frilly lettuce and Chinese greens.

Jean Tyler.

JEAN TYLER, 77, CENTRAL COAST

JEAN says it’s time for her gloriously colourful selection of pansies, violas and impatiens, with winter greens among them, in the hanging and ground-level pots to be refreshed.

She firstly removes the plants as they end their winter blooming. Then she takes about a quarter of the soil and puts it in the garden, replacing it with fresh potting mix and everlasting fertiliser. Once planted up, she waters the pots with Seasol.

Jean is planting snapdragon and marigold seeds that she had stored during winter in an envelope and kept in a kitchen drawer, plus geranium cuttings,

Chris O’Dempsey.

CHRIS O’DEMPSEY, 73, SUNSHINE COAST WHILE Chris’s various orchid plants will flower at most times of the year, spring is when they are at their most magnificent.

To prepare them for his annual open garden and to keep them in good health for the hot months ahead, Chris is busy nurturing his prized plants.

He targets the warmer part of the day to spray

each plant with a mild fertiliser diluted in about two or more litres of water.

It is made up of 15ml of Carbaryl, a teaspoon of trace element, four or five teaspoons of orchid bloom booster and orchid fertiliser, and then stirred.

On Australia’s east coast, Chris says the easiest orchid to start growing in spring, indoor or outdoor, are the soft cane dendrobiums, which have a beautiful perfume, and in protected areas of the garden the phalaenopsis, which can flower for up to three months.

Succulents can be displayed in a variety of ways.

Berenice Corvi.

BERENICE CORVI, 86, BRISBANE

EVEN after 54 years of sharing her gardening

skills to her fellow Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club members, Berenice still looks for something special for each month’s meeting.

Berenice plans to have ready some bulbous flowers.

She starts with testing the soil to ensure the acid in the garden reads no less than 6.5 and then uses her old lawn

composted clippings to mulch around the plants to protect against evaporation.

Her trick to help fast-track the growth of her spring seedlings is to hold them in a little hole and then water them in with Seasol.

Berenice’s smart tip is to then put a clay pot on top of each planting and spread mulch around the

pot’s edge.

They are left like that for a few days.

Then for about five days she takes the pots off each morning, so the plants get some sun, and replaces them at night.

Finally, if the sun is very strong, Berenice places garden cuttings around the edge of each planting to create some shade while they still grow.

ADVERTISEMENT

Chaos in Canberra puts Energy on the backburner again WITH the Turnbull government in crisis again this week with yet another leadership spill in play, the country seems to be at a standstill, and it seems the countries energy crisis is once again on the back burner.

Just a week ago, Malcolm Turnbull’s National Energy Guarantee policy proposal was in full swing. At the start of the week Turnbull was claiming majority party support in favour of the NEG. Fast forward to Friday and the NEG is all but ashes and any certainty around a defined energy policy is dashed again, however the threat to abolish the Small Renewable Energy scheme nine years early remains a very real possibility.

If the government acts on the recommendations of the ACCC to abolish the smallscale renewable energy scheme, the cost of a 5kW residential system will increase by approximately $2,750. That’s a 45 per cent increase.

With all this uncertainty at play just how does that affect us right now? STC’s that how.

The small-scale technology certificates that are applied to solar PV systems as a rebate to encourage more home to make the switch to solar are in a state of flux with a rapid decrease over the last week for the first time this year. Until now the STC has remained stable all year.

With so much uncertainty swirling around the nation’s energy policy again, it is possible it may drop again, or even worse be abolished all together, driving up the cost of solar systems dramatically.

Now is the time to take the power back, if you’re considering solar energy, now is the time to act to avoid any further price hikes and take control of your energy future.

SAE Group have dropped the price on a quality Seraphim and Fronius solar systems so you can secure a quality solar system now and beat the price rise.

The system comprises of a 5kW Fronius inverter and 20 x 275watt seraphim panels.

The Fronius inverter is regarded as one of the best on the market, Austrian designed, the Fronius inverter is backed by a 5 year product warranty and delivers excellent monitoring capabilities should you wish to add this to your system. Complementing the Fronius inverter with Seraphim 275-watt panels, rounds out a high-quality system that is designed to withstand the harshest of Australian climates. Seraphim panels also come with a 10-year product warranty and 25-year performance warranty, one of the strongest warranties on the market at this price point.

The team at SAE Group are Master Electricians first and foremost, so you can also rest easy knowing you’re dealing with highly experienced, qualified staff. From consultation, to quality installation, and after sales service, they are with you the whole way, and offer a 12-year workmanship warranty with every installation.

If you’re interested in securing your energy future, or looking for a solution that will protect you from crippling electricity prices, call SAE Group 1300 18 20 50 or jump on their website www.saegroup.com.au to take advantage of this offer before it runs out.

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*Price includes racking and installation. Net meter changeover not included. Travel charges outside of 70kms from the warehouse will apply. Finance options are available, subject to lending criteria eligibility. Terms & conditions, fees and charges may apply.

Electrical License QLD: 72250, NSW: 227526C

COMMUNITY

FROM PAGE 15 simple global project for peace which taps into the uplifting power of collective singing to unite people in their communities on Peace Day, and to get them to think about unity and peace. This initiative has spread globally and the goal is for three million voices to sing on Peace Day this year. The Palmwoods Singers Theatrical Society will be performing outside the Palmwoods Hall on Friday, September 21 at 10am and welcome anyone who would like to join them, both to listen and to join in.

FRIENDSHIP FORCE SUNSHINE COAST

WE ARE an international non-profit cultural organisation focused on promoting understanding and cultural education through homestay journeys and personal friendships.

Through these exciting personal encounters, strangers become friends and we know that by experiencing different views, you can discover common ground. Our programs bring diverse people together into each other’s cultures and homes to share

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS one-of-a-kind experiences not available to regular tourists. Phone (07) 5471 7338 or go to FriendshipForce SunshineCoast.org.au.

(AIR LIMITED) NOOSA BRANCH

ASSOCIATION of Independent Retirees is the peak National not-for-profit organisation working for the interests of self-funded and partially self-funded retirees or those about to retire. Our next meeting is on Thursday, September 13 from 9.45am for 10am at South Pacific Resort, 179 Weyba Road, Noosaville. Guest speaker: Marshall Perron (former Chief Minister, NT, retired). Topic: Dying With Dignity – Come and join the discussion. We seek a fair outcome for retirees. $6pp members $10pp non-members includes morning tea. Phone 0424 615 083, email airnoosacommunications @gmail.com.

POWER OF GRATITUDE

A WORKSHOP for women on creating more happiness and feeling more resilient through the Power of Gratitude is being held at Tait-Duke Community College at Tewantin on Saturday, September 15 from

10.30am-12.30pm.

Debbie, a Louise Hay Heal Your Life Coach looks forward to sharing lots of practical ways to cultivate gratitude on a regular basis to uplift and transform. Whether you are going through challenging times or simply in need of a reminder of life’s joys, this workshop will offer guidance, and all this will take place in an atmosphere that is friendly and supportive.

Morning tea will be included. Phone 0436 104 237 or email blossomasyou @gmail.com.

FASHION PARADE AND MORNING TEA

CALOUNDRA Auxiliary of the Blue Care Nurses will be holding a Fashion Parade and Morning Tea on Thursday, September 13 at 9am. Fashions by Susannahs of Caloundra and shoes by Shannon Shoes – the morning tea will be served prior to the parade and there will also be a craft and bring and buy table, plus the usual lucky door prizes and pick a number competition. No need to book, tickets at the door. The parade will be at the Uniting Church hall, corner of Queen and Ulm Streets, Caloundra.

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CALOUNDRA Uniting Church will be holding a Trivia Night on Saturday, September 8 at 7pm. Why not make up a table 6-8 or just come along? Church Hall, corner of Queen and Ulm Streets, Caloundra.

This is always a fun night – no need to be Einstein.You may just know the answer that no one else on your table knows. For inquiries, phone the church office on 5491 5353, Lorraine 5493 7470 or email lorrainekeelty@ bigpond.com. Everyone welcome.

MAROOCHY NORTH SHORE LIONS

ON AUGUST 19, Maroochy North Shore Lions donated all the takings from their secure parking project at Fisherman’s Road. markets to the “Qld Drought Relief”. They were heartened by the response from the local community especially when a little boy came up to them with his hands brimming with change saying “This is for our farmers”. Lions donations go directly to farmers through the “Lions Need

for Feed Project”. If you would like to join our club, please phone Lion Gary on (07) 5448 9587.

COOLUM AND DISTRICT RED CROSS BRANCH

OUR Next Meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 22 from 10am at Coolum Surf Lifesaving Club, Coolum Beach.

Come and join us for a coffee and find out what we do. Visitors very welcome. Phone 0408 518 292 for more details.

CALOUNDRA STAMP CLUB

WE MEET at 1pm on the fourth Thursday of each month, January to November with a Christmas party in December. Meeting at the Bellvista Community Centre, Lomond Cres, Bellvista. Activities include stamp trading through club exchange books; a bargain table where members sell surplus items; club mini-auctions; stamp of the month competition; club quizzes; annual philatelic challenge – stamp treasure hunt competition; annual stamp fair – attended by regional visiting stamp clubs and is open to the public and a Christmas party. Visitors welcome.

FINE WORK: Tinbeerwah Art Group member Dorothy Jenkins will exhibit at TAGs Annual Art Show on September 14 at the Tinbeerwah Hall.

TINBEERWAH Art Group member Dorothy Jenkins has donned her artist beret and is busy putting the finishing touches to one of the paintings she will exhibit at TAGs Annual Art Show which opens at Tinbeerwah Hall on September 14.

Tinbeerwah Art Group committee member Jan Cooke said Dorothy Jenkins is one of their oldest members.

Tinbeerwah Art Group was formed by the late Gwen Blair in 1994 and Dorothy has been a member for 15 years.

At 92 years of age, she is a shining example of how staying fit, and participating in various social activities keeps you young at heart.

Dorothy walks 5km twice a week with the Tewantin Tickers Walking Group (part of the Healthy Heart initiative), plays mahjong and attends a weekly ballet for seniors class. She recently returned from a one month trip to France and her native Scotland and is busy planning her next trip to New Zealand.

At the Tinbeerwah Art

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Roll along with health record in tow Wellbeing

Take your files when you travel BRAND INSIGHTS

CARSELDINE retirees Peter Button and Cathy Zappala join a legion of grey nomads taking their health on the road with My Health Record.

Cathy suffers from chronic health issues and has been using My Health Record for many years to keep all her health information in one place and easily accessible for her treating doctors, specialists and hospitals.

“The benefits of My Heath Record at my age are undeniable,” husband Peter said.

“My wife and I are about to set off on a trip around Australia in our motorhome and we plan to rely solely on My Health Record to contain all our health information.

— Peter Button

“We don’t need to worry about remembering health records from years ago and feel confident that we will receive the same level of care with a new GP

ON RECORD: Brisbane North Primary Health Network’s Zanthea Chulio (far right) with Cathy Zappala, Peter Button and Paris the dog. compared to our usual one. I don’t understand why you wouldn’t have one.”

My Health Record is a secure online summary of your health information.

You can control what goes into it, and who is allowed to access it. You can choose to share your health information with your doctors, hospitals and other healthcare

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providers.

In emergency situations, treating doctors have been able to use My Health Record to view information such as current medications and Advance Care Plans to provide the appropriate treatment quickly.

Other important things to note: ■ Your important healthcare information is

available in one place and easily accessible by your doctors, specialists or hospitals ■ Because healthcare providers have better access to clinical information, they have a more detailed picture to make decisions, diagnose and provide treatment ■ When moving interstate or travelling, the information can be

viewed securely online ■ You don’t need to remember the dates of tests or medicine names or dosages ■ For those that require assistance accessing your My Health Record, you can nominate someone to act on your behalf or ask healthcare providers involved in your care to add information to your record

■ My Health Record has multi-layered and strong safeguards in place to protect your information By the end of this year, every Australian will get a My Health Record unless they choose not to have one, and can opt out by November 15.

For more go to, MyHealthRecord.gov.au or phone 1800 723 471.

Win Tickets to A Special Screening Thanks to Event Cinemas, we’re giving away 10 double passes for readers to attend the Seniors Morning Tea and Screening of the new film ‘First Man’ from 10am on Wednesday 17th October.^

On the heels of their six-time Academy Award®-winning smash, La La Land, Oscar®-winning director Damien Chazelle and star Ryan Gosling reteam for Universal Pictures’ First Man, the riveting story of NASA’s mission to land a man on the moon, focusing on Neil Armstrong and the years 1961-1969. A visceral, first-person account, based on the book by James R. Hansen, the Tickets $10* for Cinebuzz for Seniors Members. movie will explore the sacrifices and the cost—on Armstrong and on the nation—of one of the most dangerous missions in history.

Sign up to be a member for free online at

eventcinemas.com.au Tickets for this screening on sale now!

Enter online at seniorsnews.com.au/competitions

*Online booking fees apply. ^Visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitionterms for full competition terms and conditions. Promoter is ARM Specialist Media Pty Ltd of 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore Qld 4558. Promotional period 03/09/18-28/09/18. Competition drawn 10am 01/10/18 at Cnr Mayne Rd and Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006. Winners announced in Seniors November Editions 2018. Total prize value $200.00 (including GST). Entry is open to all permanent residents of Queensland, residing in the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and Toowoomba Seniors distribution areas and NSW in the Northern NSW, Central Coast and Coffs & Clarence Seniors distribution areas. NSW Permit Number LTPM/18/03133

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22

WELLBEING

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Check the angle of the dangle

ALL men over 50 – or over 40 if they have a family history – should talk now with their GP about prostate health.

It’s the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian men, with 20,000 diagnosed and tragically 3500 lost to the cancer every year.

The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia encourages all men to get better informed about prostate cancer.

MYTH 1: If I talk to my GP about my prostate health, it will lead to a finger exam.

BUSTED: You can keep your trousers on.

A digital rectal examination (DRE) is no longer the recommended first line test for prostate cancer.

Your GP will discuss whether testing is the right course of action for you.

If you decide to get tested, then it is likely to be a PSA test. This is a simple blood test.

MYTH 2: Prostate cancer isn’t a big deal – no need to bother my GP. BUSTED: Around one in seven Australian men

will get prostate cancer so monitoring your prostate health is essential.

Once you are over 50 (or over 40 if you have a family history) you need to talk with your GP about your prostate health.

Men often resist going to the doctor, but in this case, having the conversation really could save your life.

Your GP is a professional and has heard it all before, there is no need to feel awkward.

MYTH 3: If I get a prostate cancer diagnosis, it automatically means I’ll need surgery.

BUSTED: Surgery is only one of the treatment options available for localised prostate cancer.

Your specialist will talk with you about your treatment options.

And remember, the more informed you are the better – it’s always OK to get a second opinion.

For more prostate cancer information, go to www.pcfa.org.au/ getchecked.

MEN'S HEALTH: Time to get your drive shaft health check.

Congratulations to our Winners

Congratulations to the winners of our July Book Club Giveaway.

Elva Bell

Jennifer Mangan

Kerry Fenton

Gail Sloan

Jerry Patterson

Sue Dade

Ian Newberry

Jo-Anne Chapman

Susan Cheung

Stay tuned to the paper and our website for the latest Seniors News Giveaways Visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitions 6865582aa

If you are over 50, get checked now

IT DOESN’T matter whether you are in your 60s, 70s or older, it’s a good time to check out the drive shaft – your penis.

You can use the following check list from Foundation 49 for some of the items you should consider talking to your GP about and to find out more information.

■ BPH/enlarged prostate (fuel line blockage) – prostate enlargement: andrologyaustralia.org.

■ Erectile dysfunction (broken drive shaft or misfires) – erectile dysfunction: andrologyaustralia.org.

■ Prostate cancer (fuel injectors) – prostate.org.au.

■ PSA test/prostate cancer (fuel pump malfunction) – PSA test: andrologyaustralia.org.

■ Prostatitis (fuel pump infection): andrologyaustralia.org.

■ Urinary continence (worn piston rings): continence.org.au/ pages/after-dribble.html For more men’s health information, go to www.malehealth.org.au.

Disappearing Dave Are you doing more dribbling than piddling?

You may have benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH. It’s a progressive, noncancerous disease that tends to strike ageing men. Fifty per cent of men aged in their 50s will experience BPH, increasing to 80 per cent of men aged in their 80s.

To find out more about this condition, go to www.disappearing dave.com.au.

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month Find out more at pcfa.org.au/getchecked.

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

WELLBEING

EXTRA HELP: Dementia-friendly pharmacies will ensure pharmacists get specific training and more dementia-aware resources.

23

Photo: Yuri_Arcurs

Dementia-friendly pharmacies are the go

SPECIALISED training to manage pharmacy clients with dementia will soon be introduced into Queensland for pharmacists and pharmacy staff.

The Dementia Friendly Pharmacies project is an initiative of The Pharmacy Guild of Australia and will be funded by the Queensland Government.

The guild plans to develop the knowledge

and skills of staff in at least 30 pharmacies across Queensland.

“The project demonstrates a clear community need and supports a dementiafriendly approach for pharmacies across Queensland to better respond to patients and carers,” Queensland Minister for Seniors Coralee O’Rourke said.

Sunshine Coast pharmacist Kerry Teed regularly during her week works for elderly people

including those with dementia.

They visit her at her pharmacy, and she visits clients in their home or in an aged care facility.

Kerry admits she has no specific training in dealing with people with dementia.

“Just from what we read in the various journals that we get and by hands on experience at the coal face,” she said.

She is excited that Dementia Friendly Pharmacies will give

Small actions for big changes FRIENDS can make a big difference to the quality of another person’s life, particularly when they have been diagnosed with dementia.

This year’s Dementia Australia awareness campaign is inviting everyone in the the community to become a Dementia Friend.

“Through the Dementia Friends program, we aim to transform the way we, as a community, think, act and talk about dementia,” Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe said.

Community clubs and

organisations are also being encouraged to put their hands up as a Dementia Friend.

“With our Dementia Friends program we are providing an opportunity for everyone to empower themselves with more knowledge and increased understanding about dementia so they can learn how some small actions can make a big difference in the day-to-day life of someone living with dementia,” Ms McCabe added.

Interested people should go online to

dementiafriendly.org to find the Dementia Friends module which provides explanations about dementia, and features interviews of people living with dementia sharing how dementia has impacted their lives and what others can do to support them in day-to-day situations.

“Through the Dementia Friends program, we want to transform the way we, as a community, think, act and talk about dementia,” Ms McCabe said.

For more information go to dementia.org.au.

pharmacists more resources.

“I hope that they can roll this out as soon as possible,” Kerry said.

“We have an ageing population and we are getting exposed to more and more people who have dementia who are still living in the community.”

Kerry would like to have a better understanding of dementia and have better means of talking with them and counselling them.

“They are easily confused so you need to be very patient, very understanding, sympathetic,” Kerry said.

“They can get very upset so we need to learn techniques that can help them move away from those incidents where they are getting frustrated because they are not understanding what you are telling them or what they should be doing.

“We need to better understand the situations from their perspective.

And to help them best manage what they can do themselves.”

Kerry also wants to see pharmacists armed with the knowledge of what resources they can direct at-home clients towards who need assistance with ensuring medications are taken.

The guild expects pharmacy clients experience the benefit of this training in the 30 selected pilot program pharmacies early in the new year.

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Glorious garden tours Grand tours across Europe for those with green fingers THE ultimate green thumb’s overseas holiday would have to be travelling by ship, train and coach through European countries visiting iconic and private gardens, and famous garden shows.

The grandest tour has to be APT’s Botanica World Discoveries, Grand European.

The 43-day tour takes in eight countries.

Departing on April 25, 2019, the tour starts in Amsterdam in time to see the glorious spring bulbs.

You then sail the Rhine and Moselle rivers to Basel and onto Zurich accompanied by the London Festival Opera.

From Zurich you fly to Budapest where the group boards the luxurious Danube Express train over the European Alps viewing Alpine wildflowers before arriving into Venice.

Then travel from Venice to Bordeaux visiting iconic gardens and picturesque landscapes on a leisurely tour where you can enjoy unique art inclusions and watercolour tuition from our art guide.

Finally, enjoy a relaxing eight day river cruise through Bordeaux visiting gardens, chateaux, art and vineyards of the region.

The tour includes free business class fares with Lufthansa, with some conditions applying, if booked before October 15, 2018.

The price is $42,990 per person for twin share and $55,990 for solo travellers.

Other Botanica 2019 gardening tours are: ❚ Hampton Court Flower Show and Gardens of Sussex Tour, UK – this show is set on the grounds of Hampton Court Palace and is held

during the summer months.

Visit this show on the eight day tour which departs on June 17.

Tour price is from $5995 per person, twin share. ❚ BBC Gardeners World Live, Birmingham, UK – it’s the ‘garden party of the year’.

See British and world leading gardens and garden designers.

Visit this show on Botanica’s 12-day Historic Houses and Gardens of the United Kingdom Tour which departs on June 15.

Tour price is $8995 per person, twin share. ❚ Dublin in Bloom Festival, Dublin, Ireland – showcasing the best of Ireland’s gardens plants, design, construction, horticulture and gardening as a hobby.

You can combine a visit to this event with Chelsea Flower Show. Visit this show on Botanica’s 10-day tour which departs on May 21.

Tour price is from $9995 per person, twin share. ❚ Chaumont Garden Festival, Loire Valley, France – set in magnificent castle grounds, see superb displays created by teams of artists, landscape architects and designers.

Visit this show on Botanica’s 13-day Loire Valley, Dordogne and Bordeaux Chateaux gardens tour which departs on May 25.

Tour price is from $13,995 per person, twin share. ❚ Bohinj Wildflower Festival, Bohinj, Croatia – travel into the hills of Slovenia to see the majestic wildflowers of the region at the Bohinj Wildflower Festival.

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• 3 Nights Canberra • 2 Nights Batemans Bay • Cowra Japanese Gardens • Parliament House Tour • Australian War Memorial & Last Post • Canberra Sightseeing • Braidwood Guided Tour • Mogo Zoo • Batemans Bay Cruise • Wray Street Oyster Shed Adult: $3798 Single Supplement: $965

BOTANICA BEAUTY: Keukenhof Garden, Amsterdam.

Libourne River and bridge.

Marqueyssac Garden, France.

Dublin Flower Show.

Keukenhof Garden and Lake, Amsterdam.

Chelsea Flower Show.

Visit this show on Botanica’s 14-day Spring Wildflowers of the Italian Lakes, Slovenia and Croatian Islands Cruise which departs May 25.

Tour price is from $11,995 per person, twin share. ❚ Art & Gardens in France – hosted by Brian Healey, you will travel from

where you will be accompanied by Brian and visit special art inclusions, including a tour of the famous Beaux Arts Gallery in Bordeaux, a visit to Le-Temple-sur-Lot garden where Monet painted his Les Nymphaea’s series, enjoy lectures aboard as well as opportunities for

Cannes to Bordeaux where you can participate in art classes along the way.

All materials will be provided as well as tuition from Brian which is suitable for beginners and experienced water colour artists.

Continue onto the Bordeaux river cruise

DOWN UNDER COACH TOURS

10 DAY MUDGEE CHRISMAS CAPERS Departs: 18/12/18

• 4 Nights Mudgee • 2 Nights Young • Poppa’s Fudge & Jam Factory • Western Plains Cultural Centre • McFeeters Motor Museum • Ballinclash Orchard • Bluestill Distillery • Lambing Flat Folk Museum • Mudgee Winery Tour • Mudgee Yabbi Farm Tour Adult: $3698 Single Supplement: $642

9 DAY CANBERRA BALLOON FESTIVAL Departs: 10/03/19

• 2 Nights Canberra • Pillaga Pottery • Taronga Western Plains Zoo • Age of Fishes Museum • Anzac Parade Memorial Walk • Australian War Memorial • Parliament House Tour • Goulburn Guided Tour • Darling Harbour Lunch Cruise • Slim Dusty Centre Adult: $3347 Single Supplement: $1314

15 DAY ALPINE AUTUMN EGGSTRAVAGANZA Departs: 19/04/19

12 DAY BIRDSVILLE & CARNARVON GORGE

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2019 Brochure Ou September

Departs: 11/05/19

• Nundle Woollen Mill • Illawarra Fly Tree Top Walk • Kiama Blowhole • Kosciuszko NP • Macenmist Truffles Adult: $5289 Single Supplement: $1314

• 2 Nights Carnarvon Gorge • Birdsville Pub & Big Red • Min Min Encounter • Longreach Sightseeing • Arcadia Valley Escape Adult: $4880 Single Supplement: $1057

11 DAY ISLANDS IN THE SUN

16 DAY CORNER COUNTRY & THE FLINDERS RANGES

Departs: 07/06/19

painting and tuition.

The 14-day tour departs on May 24.

Tour price is from $13,595 per person, twin share, and $16,995 for solo travellers.

Departs: 20/07/19

• Burke & Wills Dig Tree • 1770 LARC Tour • Cameron Corner • Footlights Theatre Restaurant • 4WD Ridge Top Tour, Arkaroola • Whitsunday Cruise • Depot Glen & Milparinka • Magnetic Island Tour • Wilpena Pound • Reef HQ Townsville Adult: $4498 Single Supplement: $1027 Adult: $5898 Single Supplement: $1150

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SPECIALISING IN SENIOR’S TRAVEL  COMPLIMENTARY DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE (Area Conditions Apply)  FULLY ACCOMMODATED TOURS info@downundercoachtours.com.au  www.downundercoachtours.com.au  www.facebook.com/downundercoachtours  Prices quoted are per person twin share

29

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

10 reasons to add Provence to your hit list Ann Rickard LIKE Italy’s Tuscany region, Provence in the South of France has that evocative sound to it.

Stony villages, fields of vines, delicious food, copious wine and a feeling of joie-de-vivre in the air. It’s one of those destinations every traveller dreams about.

Ann Rickard gives you 10 reasons why you should go as soon as possible.

1. Weather. With more than 300 days of sunshine every year, Provence is France’s sunshine capital. The summer months of June, July and August give you guaranteed sunshine.

2. Hilltop towns.

Menerbes and Bonnieux became famous when Peter Mayle wrote so charmingly about them in A Year in Provence.

While they are delightful with their stone houses and narrow lanes, there are no museums or galleries and only a sprinkling of cafes. Like most hilltop towns, they are fun to explore and admire but don’t expect to find a lot to do.

3. Les Baux de Provence.

In the Alpilles, this village provides plenty of interest. It is a living museum, crowned by castle ruins dating back to the 10th century.

Walk over the ruins, climb crumbling towers, go down to the dungeons, be awed by the reproductions of giant medieval weapons, then wander the maze of lanes in the village with their

small shops and cafes, and stop in a leafy square for lunch.

4. Avignon. For 70 years during the 14th century, this town was the hub of the Roman Catholic world when the popes moved there from Rome and built the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes).

The walled old town bustles with more shops and cafes than you could get to. Take a ride on the Petit Train, which rumbles through the town while a commentary gives you all you need to know about Avignon’s rich history.

5. I’isle sur la Sorgue.

The name means “Island on the Sorgue River” and it looks so, with canals and water everywhere. Its imposing moss-covered water wheels have been toiling since the 1200s when they were used to grind flour. It is now famous for its antique and brocante stores.

Best to visit on a Sunday – market day – when the town erupts with a festive atmosphere as hundreds of stalls sell everything from French linen to giant wheels of cheese.

6. Markets. Every village, town and city puts on markets, where lanes, squares and streets become clogged with stalls and people. Even if you don’t buy a thing (you will), just wandering among the crowds with the sights and sounds of food and laughter gives a true sense of Provence.

The markets are also a social occasion, to meet friends for coffee or wine, but be warned, in the bigger towns the crowds

are so dense it is shoulder-to-shoulder and many locals love to take their dogs, adding to the general crush.

7. Food. Fresh fruit and vegetables, olive oil, garlic, quality meat and sublime seafood, Provence is known all over the world for its superior cuisine. In summer, cherry, peach and apricot orchards burst with fruit so sweet you will find it hard to believe.

Traditional dishes include daube (beef stew) and ratatouille (we know that one). Look for the giant slabs of nougat at the markets and don’t go past the rich tapenades, probably made that morning. Green and black olive tapenade are traditional but try the anchovy tapenade for a bang-in-the-mouth hit.

8. Pont du Gard. This mighty aqueduct built by the Romans 2000 years ago to transport water from the town of Uzes to Nimes is reason alone to visit Provence. One of France’s most popular attractions, the aqueduct crosses the Gardon River.

One look and your jaw drops. Best way to see it is to kayak from the nearby town of Collias, picnic on the banks with views to the awesome structure, then kayak under it. Better still, float on your back beneath it.

9. Plane trees, poppies, lavender, sunflowers.

Nothing says France more than the rows of plane trees flanking the roads.

They create an avenue of leafy shade in summer and make your heart sing.

In April and May wild red

SUPERIOR CUISINE: Enjoy cheese, seafood and meat at the markets in Provence.

Lavender everywhere in Provence.

Canals in L’isle sur la Sorgue. poppies spring from the ground everywhere and then come August the sunflowers tilt their yellow heads to the sun to create fields of blazing yellow to the horizon.

Lavender begins to bloom in June and by July there are mauve carpets stretching all over the region.

But no matter what month you visit Provence, the smell of lavender is in

Castle ruins of Le Baux de Provence.

the air, with shops, boutiques and markets selling lavender products, from essential oils to little lavender bags to soaps and sprays.

10. Carriers de Lumieres.

Below the village of Les Baux is perhaps the most stunning yet low-profile highlight of the region.

In a vast, disused bauxite quarry, unique visual shows are projected on to the

immense walls to the accompaniment of stirring music.

It is usually the works of the world’s most famous artists on display – Van Gogh, Cezanne, Da Vinci in the past, this year it is Picasso.

The 45-minute show is continuous, so any time you arrive is a good time.

It is a spectacular experience that stays with you long after your visit.

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SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

‘‘

Your journey spans eight regions ranging from lush forests to craggy deserts.

A MOUNTAIN HIGH: Make hiking the Kilimanjaro in Tanzania one of the holidays on your to do list, and be in awe of nature’s beauty.

Photo: SVaP

Hike your way through Some places can only be dreams while others can become a real experience with the help of these super destination tips.

THIS month we profile destinations and experiences 45 to 41 as we count down the 2018 list of the World’s Best Journeys which we hope will inspire you to live life to the full.

The top 50 bucket list has been selected by Flight Network and over 500 top travel journalists, agencies, bloggers and editors.

Tighten the seat belt and let’s get you moving by putting some spring back into your forward travel plans.

HIKE THE KILIMANJARO, TANZANIA

THE seven-day Machame route up majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa at 20,000 feet, begins at the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Gate, where you’ll walk through rainforest up a winding trail.

The rainforest eventually dissolves into a small valley where you traverse a rocky ridge before reaching the Shira Plateau, a land of deep

valleys and weather worn lava flows.

Pass the Lava Tower, nicknamed “Shark’s Tooth” because of its angular shape, before resting at Barranco Camp.

Your next stop to help acclimatise is at Karanga Camp. Continue on to Barafu Camp where you’ll prepare your mind, body and soul for the Kilimanjaro summit, which commences between midnight and 2am.

This epic trek will take you between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, before you take a rest at Stella Point and get rewarded by a magnificent sunrise. After reaching the highest point at Uhuru Peak, you descend to Mweka Hut and finish the following day in Moshi.

Getting there: the trip begins and ends at the Kilimanjaro International Airport in Tanzania which serves Arusha and Moshi.

As you must be part of a guided tour for this adventure, your tour company will help advice you about travel arrangements from the airport.

HIKE THE JORDAN TRAIL, JORDAN

GAIN an education in Jordanian terrain, archaeology and religious relevance by embarking on this 650km hike that takes about 40 days.

Your journey spans eight regions, ranging from lush forests to craggy deserts.

Lace up your hiking shoes in Umm Qais then head south toward your final destination of Aqaba.

Along the way you’ll encounter 52 villages allowing you to peel back the layers of this culture by tasting local cuisine, interacting with villagers and even spending the night in homestays.

Highlights of the trail include jagged cliffs overlooking the Jordan Rift Valley, the rose-red city of Petra, and the towering sandstone mountains of Wadi Rum. Be sure to pack your bathing suit as you’ll be passing the Red Sea, whose crystal clear waters take on an orange-red hue when seasonal algae blooms.

This warm sea is home to the world’s fastest fish,

the solitary sailfish, and has a thriving biodiversity, thanks in large part to its coral reef ecosystem.

Significant historical sites, such as the ruins of the ancient church of Mar Elias and the Islamic castle of Ajloun will also be encountered on the route.

Getting there: You will to fly into Jodan’s main airport, Queen Alia International Airport. From that airport a taxi is the most direct mode of transport to Umm Qais, which is about 2.5 hours away.

The trailhead is located at the basalt ruins of the Decapolis of Um Qais.

Be sure to plan your hike ahead of time, or hire one of the many local guide companies who can help you make the most of this trail, or check out the volunteer run Jordan Trail Association which offers an annual through-hike.

HIKE THE FRANCIGENA WAY, EUROPE SPANNING centuries of history and endless kilometres of

mountainscapes, the Francigena Way hike covers over 2000km from Canterbury to Rome and takes anywhere from 100-200 days, depending on how quickly you travel.

This pilgrimage will carry you through England, France, Switzerland and Italy, with famous stop points such as Dover Castle, Notre Dame, Piazza del Campo Siena and Cathedral of Saints Peter and Francis.

You journey through soft grass, stone stairways carved into mountain sides and thriving vineyards interspersed with time in grand cities such as Reims (France), Lausanne (Switzerland) and Rome (Italy).

You can pause at any time to savour a special village or flower-covered field.

At the end you can celebrate completing this hike-of-a-lifetime by tossing a coin into Rome’s Trevi Fountain and enjoying a Pizza Bianca from one of the city’s many bakeries.

Getting there: You need to get to Canterbury by bus or train once arriving

31

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

Hike the Jordan Trail, Jordan and experience bedouin camels as they rest near the treasury Al Khazneh carved into the rock at Petra, Jordan.

Photo: DeSid

The Ancient Franceta Gate in the medieval town of Sutri.

Photo: davidf

Photo: Crisfotolux

Bushwalk in the spectacular Australian Blue Mountains.

this healthy bucket list in London. The Francigena Way starts beside the south porch of Canterbury Cathedral, at the kilometre zero stone.

From the Cathedral, turn left onto Burgate and walk along Church Street and Longport, beside St Augustine’s Abbey. After passing North Holmes Road and St Martin’s Church, turn right onto Pilgrim’s Way and begin to follow the signs for the North Downs Way. Now, keep putting one foot in front of the other, allowing a trusty guidebook to support you the rest of the way.

BUSHWALK THE BLUE MOUNTAINS, AUSTRALIA A CAPTIVATING 3861 square miles of towering eucalyptus trees, sandstone cliffs and native bushland are waiting to be explored.

Because of its intricate beauty, the best way to journey through this land is on foot.

The seven day hike starts in Mount Victoria where you can spend the day in a historical pub or an art gallery.

Relax on board the Shinkansen Bullet Train, Japan.

A few highlights of the trek include the secret grotto and rhododendron gardens at Mount Piddington, the cascading Bridal Veil Falls and Pulpit Rock lookout at Popes Glen, and the curious rock formation of Ruined Castle in the Jamison Valley.

Aboriginal legend is mixed into your trip when you lay eyes on Three Sisters, a massive trilogy of rocky peaks that are said to have been three

sisters that were turned to stone.

To reach the Three Sisters you’ll need to ascend Giant Stairway.

Once your well-worked legs have descended the stairs you get to spend the night in the quaint village of Leura. Your last walk in the Blue Mountains will be National Pass walk, which leads into a mystical rainforest gorge.

Getting there: The closest major airport to

Photo: blanscape

Mount Victoria is Sydney.

From there you can reach Mount Victoria by taking a 2.5 hour train ride from Sydney’s Central Station, or rent a car and follow the M4 highway.

RELAX ON BOARD THE SHINKANSEN BULLET TRAIN, JAPAN

Reaching a maximum speed of 320km/h, the lightning-fast Shinkansen Bullet Train offers travelers a ride of a

lifetime.

With the ability to tilt on turns, the needle-nosed Shinkansen is a thrilling way to travel. Known for its aerodynamic design and sleek rails providing ultra-smooth rides, the bullet train’s innovative, wing-shaped form helps to reduce wind resistance at high speeds.

Boarding the train in Tokyo, after exploring everything from the modern glittering skyscrapers to its historic

temples, adventurers can take the Shinkansen to the popular city of Kyoto for a picturesque journey along towering mountains and flower-drenched valleys.

Departing from the train, visitors can explore Kyoto’s timeless, island culture and a region draped in Japanese tradition.

Peruse Kyoto’s Buddhist temples, imperial palaces and Shinto shrines before hopping on the Shinkansen and rambling on to your next destination.

Getting there: With countless airlines serving Asia it’s easy to get to Tokyo.

Once at Narita Airport the most cost effective way to get the city, which is 66km away, is to go by limousine bus which departs four times an hour and the fastest way is by boarding the Narita Express.

Make your way to the Shinkansen by taking the Keikyu Rail Line to Shinagawa when you’re ready for your trip on the Bullet Train.

32

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Fly across the ditch for top foodie treats STUNNING scenery, popular snowfields, The Hobbit, the All Blacks, a really cool Prime Minister and a slightly different way of using the English language are just a few of the things that spring to mind when the words New Zealand are uttered.

Dig a bit deeper and the famous sauvignon blancs of the Marlborough region, the pinot noirs of Central Otago and Martinborough come to mind, along with kiwifruit, the lamb, the traditional Maori hangi cooked lovingly underground and tasty seafood.

For lovers of amazing food and wine, the news is all good when it comes to treating yourself to a New Zealand holiday.

In just three short hours travellers can fly direct from Sunshine Coast Airport to the

beautiful city of Auckland and start exploring its busy food scene.

New Zealand chef Peter Gordon, who owns the Providores and Tapa Room and Kopapa in London and is executive chef at The Sugar Club and Bellota in Auckland, says New Zealand offers great food in smart surroundings, with service that is professional and friendly.

“A native paua (abalone) cooked just so, drizzled with some lemon-scented extra virgin olive oil and topped with a little mashed kumara will make you feel good, both physically and emotionally,” Peter said.

A quick flick through the winners list in Metro’s Top 50 Auckland Restaurants for 2018 reveals there’s something for everyone when it comes to the style

and tastes of food on offer in the city.

Fine dining restaurant Sidart was named the Metro Peugeot Restaurant of the Year for 2018, with modern Indian restaurant Cassia as runner-up.

Other names to make the list that might be worth a bit of research when planning a city visit include Casita Miro, Hugo’s Bistro, Apero, Ponsonby Road Bistro, Cazador, Cocoro and Pasture.

Auckland, one of two major cities on New Zealand’s north island with its two large harbours and attractions including the Auckland Domain, a park built around an extinct volcano and home to the formal Wintergardens, offers a great place for a city break with a difference, or as a stepping stone to a bigger

FOODIE HEAVEN: Escape to New Zealand for a tasty treat.

New Zealand adventure.

For the wine lovers, that adventure might come in the form of following the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail from Hawke’s Bay to Marlborough.

The tourism board, via www.newzealand.com offers a five-day, 485km itinerary travelling from Hawke’s Bay on the North Island to Marlborough in the South Island with stops in Wairarapa and Wellington along the way.

It’s a journey that includes a three hour ferry trip across Cook Strait through the Marlborough Sounds which has been consistently rated as one of the most scenic ferry trips in the world.

Wine journalist and international wine judge Bob Campbell said New Zealand has built a reputation for producing the world’s best Sauvignon Blanc with a unique style that is more pungently fruity than any other wine from the grape variety.

Sauvignon Blanc accounts for two thirds of all New Zealand wine produced, but there’s still plenty of other options, with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Syrah and Bordeaux-style reds on offer.

Mr Campbell believes Pinot Noir is one of New Zealand’s most exciting wine styles, and it’s

Photo: Contributed

growing in both reputation and sales. He defines it as very fruity, tending to be softer and more approachable than the wines of the Burgundy region.

If all this talk of food and wine has whet your appetite for more, check out the direct flights from the Coast at www.airnew zealand.com.au and start planning now. A quick look at the Sunshine Coast Airport website show from October 14, flights are expected to be leaving on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. They go to Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from October 17-21 and Friday and Sunday on October 26-28.

Discover a hidden gem on the Sunshine Coast Geoff Crockett WHEN it comes to choosing a great place to stay in Australia that’s by the beach, close to a regional airport, and offers great access to all the comforts of home and more, Alexandra Headlands on the Sunshine Coast is well worth a look.

Just south of the growing Sunshine Coast CBD at Maroochydore, Alexandra Headlands is home to a great surf club

with ocean views and an amazing stretch of uninterrupted sand that lets you hit the beach and walk for miles.

Ideally located for families of all shapes and sizes looking to enjoy the mix of sand, surf, shopping and dining along the coastal strip the area has a wide range of accommodation options including Oaks Seaforth Resort which has a tropical holiday feel all year around.

As a father, with two primary school children

under the age of 10, the resort ticked plenty of boxes on the entertainment front and is now on the list as a potential Christmas holiday venue, where in our family it’s not unusual for grandparents, aunts and uncles to all converge from around the country at one resort for a couple of weeks during the holiday season.

While it’s fair to say that in early August the lagoon pools were a little chilly for my 6 and 10-year-old girls, they still tried them

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out and posed underneath the waterfall before heading across to the heated lap pool and bath-like spa for a good few hours of fun.

Give it a month and we’d never get them out of there.

And the pool came after a few hours at the beach making sandcastles, collecting shells and enjoying the 24 degree day that is winter on the Sunshine Coast.

The Oaks Seaforth Resort grounds offer plenty of break outs and barbecue areas which would be great for a longer stay – not to mention a well-appointed gym and easy access to a wide variety of restaurants, a pub, and a convenience store on the same block.

Inside there’s plenty to like about the selfcontained apartments.

We stayed in two bedroom apartment, with ocean views, and one of the first things that jumped out was the generosity of the spaces on offer.

The two bathrooms are giant, with a spa being a welcome added bonus in the ensuite.

The kitchen was well appointed and the storage

COAST GETAWAY: Headlands.

Oaks

space available in the walk-in robe and wardrobes made it easy to imagine moving in for a few weeks, unpacking the bags and being able to treat the space like home – without tripping over the suitcases.

The Oaks Seaforth Resort offers a total of 87 apartments across one, two and three bedroom apartment configurations.

There’s free parking underneath the building, air-conditioning in all rooms and it’s just 7km to Sunshine Coast Airport.

For a beachside holiday, it offers the best of both worlds.

Relaxation and access to all the mod cons if needed.

Leave the car at home

Seaforth

Alexandra

Photo: Contributed

and walk across the road and you’re on the sand.

If it’s raining the movies and shopping at Sunshine Coast Plaza are only 3km away – not to mentioned the trendy dining options on Ocean Street, Maroochydore.

Noosa’s a 35 minute drive to the north, and Australia Zoo, made famous by Steve Irwin, is even closer than that to the west.

Oaks operates 48 hotels across Australia and its handy website at www.oakshotels.com has pages full of deals every day. Phone 13 62 57 for more information.

The writer spent a night as a guest of Oaks Seaforth.

33

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

THE GHAN EXPERIENCE 6 DAYS, 13th April 2019

$3490*

Experience the 3 Day GHAN Adelaide to Darwin. Regarded as one of the world’s greatest rail journeys, The Ghan delivers so much more than an extended train ride. It promises access to parts of Australia no other holiday can come close to - the perfect balance of comfort and adventure culminating in a once in a life time experience.

*PP Twin Share, Single, $200 *Seniors Group Discount Rate

TOTAL TASMANIA 11 DAYS, 20th March & 26th Oct 2019

This amazing tour covers all the highlights of Tasmania including Hobart, Port Arthur, Queenstown, Dove Lake, Cradle Mountain, Gordon River, Stanley, Davenport, Launceston, Tamar Valley, St Helens, Bicheno, Frycinet National Park, Richmond, plus much more !!!!

$3490 P/P-TS* Single Supp + $650 *Plus Airfares

$699*

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Yamba & Byron Bay Short Break - 4 Days, Departs 3rd / 10th March 2019

Travel to Cabarita Beach through to Bangalow before arriving at Yamba.

Then visiting the seaside village of Iluka and then Cruising the Clarence River.

Traveling then down to picturesque village of Brooms Head, Maclean then onto Angourie. Then through Evans Head,Woodburn and finish at Bryon Bay before heading back to Brisbane

Uluru - Field of Light Olgas & Alice Springs $3790* 7 Days - 29 May & 14 Aug 2019 *PP Twin Share, Single $550 Visiting ULURU Cultural Including Flights ex BNE Centre, Ranger-Guided Mala Walk. Heading to Kata Tjuta National Park & The Olgas Field Of Light Experience is spectacular. Touring Alice Springs. Exploring MacDonnell Ranges & Simpsons Gap

WW2 Midget Subs & Sydney 5 Days - Departs 18th March

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$1490*

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Garden Island RAN Center Japanese Mini Sub Display Sydney Harbour Cruise & Sub Attack Locations, Hyde Park Luna Park High Tea Lunch Star Casino Buffet Dinner 1 Way Flights to SYD included

$3495 P/P-TS*

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Discover Cooktown 8 Days - Departure Dates 2019: 13th April, 11th June, 15th July, 9th & 21st Sep

Depart Brisbane, Cairns, Mossman Gorge, Daintree River Cruise, Port Douglas, Discover Cooktown, Famous Lions Den Hotel, Endeavour River Cruise, Jacques Coffee Plantation

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Australian Open Tennis

4 Days - Departs 15th Jan 19

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Artvo Gallery, Star Observation Wheel, Reserved Daytime Seating Margaret Court Arena & Top Seeded Players, Puffing Billy Steam Train & Emerald Village, Colonial Tramcar Dinner, Queen Vic Markets

$1390 *PP TS, Single add $255

Majestic River Murray, 10 Days, 23rd Apr 2019 A Wonderful 10 day Tour of the Murray River by Coach Albury to Adelaide including 5 Paddle Steamers & Cruises Yarrawonga, Echuca, Euston Swan Hill, Mildura, Renmark Loxton, Goolwa, Victor Harbour The Kimberly & Beyond 11 Days, 18th July 2019 Darwin Discovery Tour Dinner Cruise Katherine Gorge Cruise, Lake Argyle, Zebra Mine Tour, Bungle Bungles Hidden Valley, Ord River Cruise & Geikie Gorge Cruise, Halls Creek, Chamberlain Gorge, Fitzroy Crossing, Broome Discovery Tours Cable Beach Eccentric Lightining Ridge 5 days - 6 May & 16 Sept 2019 Fossick for your own treasure on lands that 100 million years ago were inhabited by dinosaurs and ancient forests, a stone’s throw from the discovery one of the world’s most large and valuable uncut black opals. This is, Lightning Ridge.

Cowboys, Caves & Castles 8 days 1st June, 8th July & 12 Aug 2019

$1390*

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$2490 P/P-TS* Single Supp + $300

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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.

Hunter Valley Rose Spectacular & Xmas Lights, 8 Days, 1st November.

Enjoy the Hunter Valley Rose Spectacular, the beautiful Jacaranda Festival & the famous HVG Christmas Lights.

Cairns Xmas Capers, 8 Days, 21st December.

Cairns, Kuranda, Port Douglas, Mossman Gorge, Daintree River Cruise, Sky Rail, Reef Casino Xmas Lunch, Dundess Restaurant, Harbour Cruise

A Golden Coast Xmas, 5 Days, 23rd December.

Gold Coast, Broadwater Cruise, Mermaid Beach, Tweed River Cruise, Xmas Day Lunch at The Star Casino, Coolangatta, Byron Bay, Mt Tambourine, Lunch at St Bernards with magical views over the Gold Coast.

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34

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Floriade adopts pop theme

SPRING TRAVEL: Canberra’s Floriade will burst to life this month. activities for the grandkids.

Imagine enjoying your visit on a Sunday afternoon, picnicking at Jazz in the Park with special guests including the uber-talented Emma Pask.

For the aspiring or avid green thumbs there are many workshops at The Greenhouse interactive venue.

The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down.

NightFest, Floriade’s ticketed after-dark

Call our frie endly, expe erienced team to book your next crui uise or touring ho oliday or to join one of Go See ee Touring’s special gro roup departures.

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CHIANG MAI FLOWER FESTIVAL ESCORTED TOUR

$4,395

per person Twin Share ex BNE, SYD & MEL, Single Supplement $1,000

11 Nights accom - Bangkok, River Kwai, Chiang Rai & Chiang Mai, most meals. City & Temples Tour Bangkok, Bridge on the River Kwai, Hellfire Pass, Golden Triangle, Mae Fah Luang Gardens, Choui Fong Tea Plantation, White Temple, Maesa Elephant Camp, Reserved Seating Chiang Mai Flower Festival

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per person Twin Share ex BNE, MEL, SYD, ADL & PER, Single supplement $1,000

per per erson Twin Share Ex BN NE or SYD, Single sup uppliment $1,390

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11 DAY ESCORTED TOUR TOKYO TO OSAKA

$7,650

per person Twin Share Ex BNE, SYD, ME, Single suppliment $2,620

per p person Twin Sha hare Ex BNE, Single s suppliment $450

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30 MAR - 6 APR 2019 7 nights accom of your choice, 8 days car hire & in nsurance, half dayy Islan and orientation tour, wellcome dinner, islaan n nd fish fry, breakfast bush walkk, Presentati tion din inner, entry into Go See Touring Convict ct’s Challeng nge at Rawson Hall, non-players reeceive $50 discount. Plus - fun & fabulo lous prizes!

31 MAR - 10 APR 2019 8 x Breakfast; 4 x lunches, 2 x Dinner, Mt Fuji sight seeing, Kyoto sight seeing, Tokyo Sight seeing, Nara Sight Seeing, Osaka sight seeing, Hiroshima Sight Seeing, Train tickets on ordinary, reserved seating, Private tour with English speaking guide

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On the Wednesday night, Stage 88 transforms into an open-air cinema, while

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experience, returns for five nights from September 26 until September 30.

Commonwealth Park will come to life after dark with illuminated flowerbeds, a line-up of local and drink food stalls,

Photo: Floriade Australia

Thursday and Friday nights see musicians hit the stage as the music flows through the flowerbeds including Caiti Baker, Bowie Unzipped featuring Jeff Duff and Kate Miller-Heidke.

Saturday night will be time to don the dance shoes for Party NightFest.

The park switches to party mode with Cell Block 69.

Finishing off this weekend will be a night of laughs as MA15+ Comedy NightFest returns with Arj Barker, Akmal Saleh, The Stevenson Experience, Chris Ryan and Matt Okine.

Floriade wraps up on October 14 with Dogs’ Day Out, featuring a superhero dress up pop culture theme.

All pups, big and small, are invited to soak up the sunshine and explore Floriade with special pup-friendly activities and entertainment throughout the day.

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RETRO inspired flowerbeds will part of the annual colourful spring Floriade festival to be held in Canberra from September 15 to October 14.

Marilyn Monroe and Michael Jackson will star alongside the likes of Grug and Where’s Wally, the Rubik’s Cube and even Ken Done, as visitors go on a trip down memory lane through the pop culture.

Floriade each year focuses on exciting, diverse and innovative programs.

This year will be no different with a line-up that is nothing short of blooming wonderful.

Visitors will be treated to an exciting array of flowerbeds showcasing some of the 20th Century’s most iconic figures in music, film, literature and social media.

Food, glorious food to tantalise the tastebuds with produce from Canberra and the surrounding region will have visitors coming back for more than one visit.

During school holidays, there will be lots of

35

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

Isle of Pines: A beautiful gem in New Caledonia Quinn Jones THE guide pointed away down the half-dry river. He would go no further.

He said something that was lost in translation and, with final finger-thrust to the far end of the river, turned his back and abandoned us to our fate.

The group shared nervous glances.

The river was bubbling at low tide, but its wide body only seemed to end at a bank of wild, thick brush: where was the path?

Somebody took the first step and waded into the knee-high deep water, the rocks smooth and slippery under foot.

But there, on the other side, an opening had been crudely hewn into the tree line! And then we walked.

The path twisted, turned and seemed endless. Trees invaded the way and low branches snagged the unwary. The heat of the day seemed to stifle and stick. Someone asked – not for the first time – if we were going the wrong way.

But something was happening.

The river, always on our right, was becoming more swollen with each step, the muddy water now a clear and intoxicating blue.

And then around one final bend, the brush let loose its stranglehold and a white, sandy beach opened before us, leading to a natural pool, pristine and deep as it is beautiful.

Welcome to just one of the natural wonders of the Isle of Pines (Ile des Pins) in New Caledonia.

The island sits just off the coast of New Caledonia’s capital of

AMAZING: The Isle of Pines is the natural, beautiful gem in the crown of New Caledonia.

Noumea and is mainly reached by an easy 20-minute flight or a twice-weekly ferry.

The flight is stunning – flying low over small islands dotted across the reef before a large, green jewel, surrounded by a hypnotic swale of blues, emerges on the horizon: Isle of Pines.

The island’s name is as obvious as the forest of tall pine trees that greet you at the airport. The rest of the island is left for you to discover.

There are three main resorts on the island while a host of camping grounds offer the budget traveller a more affordable stay. My partner and I settled on the Oure Tera Beach Resort.

The resort’s spacious

Sacred Rock is the centrepiece of Kunamera Bay.

and relaxing bungalows have a beachfront view of one of the island’s most picturesque spots: Kunamera Bay. The bay’s inviting waters are ringed by white sand and two coral reefs (a snorkeler’s heaven) but the centre piece is Sacred Rock – a craggy monolith that rises from the ocean bed to soar above the waves.

Imagine reclining on your day-bed, drink in hand, the ocean breeze drifting through the palms and that view dominating the landscape?

But we’ve only started to scratch the surface.

Travelling around the island is easy enough – though you may have to switch to the slowed-down pace of local life – with

drivers, rental cars, scooters and even bicycles at hand to get you around.

But this is the islands and why take to the road when you can hit the water?

Kayaks and stand-up paddle boards swirl around the bays while local tours can blast you out to the reefs and some of the most stunning quays – think sand so white you can hardly glance at it against the brightness of the cloudless sky.

But for a truly unforgettable journey, jump aboard a traditional outrigger and sail the waters like the local Melanesian Kanaks from the village of Vao and across Upi Bay.

Photos: Jami Elliot

Step back on land and the natural pool and lake-like Oro Bay are near at hand.

The natural pool is a lagoon at the head of a river shielded from the ocean by a rock wall.

A small reef has formed in the clear, deep waters, and every day, hundreds of tourists make the pilgrimage to spend the day baking in the sun or pulling on their goggles and slipping into the lagoon.

A short walk away is Oro Bay – the placid waters flanked by tall islands with even taller pines.

Away to the right is the endless white tips of the crashing reef, but in the bay, water beads and shimmers like an inland lake.

And don’t visitors to Le Meridien Ile des Pines – the island’s most boutique resort – take advantage with stand-up paddle boards, kayaking and sailing dotting the calm waters.

A breeze springs off the coast and travels inland, hits Pic Nga and travels across the backs of climbers as they work their way up the island’s highest point.

But this is no Mount Everest! At an elevation of just 262 metres, the peak is triumphed daily by even the most modest of mountaineers.

Back at the resort and the ‘dinner bell’ is about to sound. Steaming fresh fish, beef that falls off the fork, or perhaps a pastry is more your thing?

We are in French territory, aftrer all.

It may not be Michelin-star cuisine, but the island’s restaurants won’t leave your stomach rumbling for long.

However, it will leave your wallet as bare as a bone!

That’s the one gripe about this paradise – and New Caledonia as a holiday destination. The cost.

Everything – the meals, the tours, the drinks – have been jacked up three-times the price we are used to in Australia.

It’s not a major problem if you’re prepared (be prepared!) but it’s certainly a shock to the system if you’re expecting a bargain or two.

Luckily, sitting on a beach, the palms singing in the breeze and the waves calmly crashing at your feet, while your worries and cares sink with the setting sun cost nothing at all.

The author paid for the entire trip to New Caledonia.

The Oro Bay natural pool attracts hundreds of visitors every day.

36

TRAVEL DEALS

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Spring into a flowerful adventure

NATURAL ART: Visit the stunning Gardens by the Bay in Singapore on your next trip.

Photo: Tilt Pte Ltd diversity, the many centres – Maxwell Road, Newton and Lau Pa Sat are reliably good – are always buzzing with locals swarming around stalls selling steaming bowls of noodles and ocean-fresh seafood.

Fans chug overhead, plastic plates clatter, Tiger beer bottles clink and fizz – now that’s fine dining.

For retail therapy, the GSS, Great Singapore Sale, happens yearly between June and August and offers plenty of shopping opportunities.

One of the newest kids on the shopping block is ION Orchard, about 400 retail outlets sprawling over numerous levels and underground passages.

Go See Touring has two very special escorted tours to Singapore in 2019.

Join Australian musicians Rodney Vincent, Graeme Hugo and Fortunato Isgro on an eight day Singapore Showcase Tour departing March 2, 2019.

This tour features two fabulous concerts by these entertainers. Price $3999 per person share twin (Ex Bne, Syd, Mel).

For food lovers the eight day Singapore Food Festival Tour (departing Bne, Syd, Mel) on July 21, 2019 is sure impress.

For a full itinerary, go to goseetouring.com or contact one of the friendly staff via email info@ goseetouring.com or phone 1300 551 997.

BLOSSOMING ADVENTURE: Experiencing a sea of trees showing off bright pink flowers is well worth adding to the list.

Photo: Contributed

Blossom into Japan spring

NOWHERE on the planet do the modern and the ancient co-exist more harmoniously than in Japan.

Kimono-clad ladies chatter on futuristic phones while blurring by on the fastest trains in the world; thousandyear-old Zen temples are dwarfed by seas of skyscrapers; and neon signs are reflected in flooded rice paddies.

This fascinating country provides a sensory cultural overload, delivered in the most gracious and polite manner.

The arrival of cherry blossoms, locally known as Sakura, are an important part of

Japanese culture.

Symbolising new beginnings and hope, their fleeting beauty is also a key characteristic representing human life, transience and nobleness.

Adding to their magic and mystique, the Sakura are usually only in full bloom for a short time in spring.

According to text from the 8th century, the tradition of Hanami, or flower viewing parties, have been held since at least the 3rd century, and is still an event of important cultural significance for Japanese people today.

It is common to see people having picnics

under the cherry blossom trees during the day or admiring the blossoms by lantern light at night, which is a magical sight.

If Japan is on your bucket list, spring is a great time of year to visit.

HANDY HINT: Next year Go See Touring will host an 11-day escorted tour to Japan for the Cherry Blossoms, departing Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne March 31, 2019.

The tour price is $7650 per person share twin, including return airfares.

For full tour details, go to goseetouring.com or contact one of their friendly staff on info@ goseetouring.com or phone 1300 551 997.

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A FLOWER Dome, Supertrees, Dragonfly Lake and Cloud Forests.

No, it’s not the set of Ridley Scott’s next film, but rather Singapore’s freshly minted Gardens by the Bay. Spanning 101 hectares, the gardens are a showcase for horticultural artistry.

Living plants aside, all 700,000 of them, the waterfront park features man-made trees stretching 50m into the sky with steel trunks and illuminated wire rods for branches providing nightly sound and light shows with plenty of drama.

Today, Singapore is widely acclaimed as a global capital for culinary innovation, encompassing not only local street food and fine dining, but also new and innovative dining concepts at all price ranges.

From savoury carrot cake to Hainan chicken rice and knock-your-socks- off curries, Singapore’s hawker centres are cheap, cheerful and unforgettable.

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NEWS

37

Cash boost to tackle abuse

AGAINST ABUSE: The Federal Government has boosted the fight against elder abuse after announcing a $2 million package for the Older Persons Advocacy Network.

Photo: chameleonseye

THE fight against elder abuse has been given a major boost with the Federal Government announcing a $2 million package for the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN).

Minister for Aged Care Ken Wyatt said the funding would be a key weapon in the face of growing concern that elder abuse is becoming rife throughout the community.

“Preventing elder abuse is everybody’s business because all older Australians have a fundamental right to expect safe, dignified treatment,” Mr Wyatt said.

“Estimates of elder abuse range from 2 to 12 per cent. Whether concerns are raised by older individuals, family members, aged care residents, staff, community visitors or government officials, they must be heard and they must be acted on.

“It’s important that we shine a light on any physical, emotional or financial abuse of our elders.”

And the Minister said OPAN – which was

established last year to deliver key services throughout the country – was already becoming a powerful ally for victims of elder abuse.

“New figures show that OPAN had a combined 1330 information contacts and cases of people at risk of or experiencing elder abuse in its first year of operation and conducted 285 sessions to educate older Australians and service providers on elder abuse protection,” Mr Wyatt said.

“The OPAN services report that the more they make their services known, the more people contact them, who often feel they have nowhere to turn to for help.

“This new funding builds on the $1 million provided to OPAN to help combat elder abuse over the past year.

“OPAN is using the funding to trial a national elder abuse advocacy and prevention model of information, advocacy and education services, based on successful West Australian and South Australian elder abuse prevention programs.”

Key projects include: ■ Developing national elder abuse advocacy response protocols ■ Creating a national decision making system to support older people, especially those living with dementia ■ Implementing a national elder abuse minimum dataset ■ Mapping elder abuse referral and support pathways in each state and territory ■ Researching special needs of rural and remote populations Mr Wyatt said it was imperative any victims or people looking for information sought help as quickly as possible.

“Separately, the Council of Attorneys-General, comprising the Commonwealth and all state and territory Attorneys-General, has committed to develop a National Plan to address elder abuse issues, including a study to examine the prevalence of elder abuse across Australia.”

To find out more about the services on offer go to the OPAN website or phone 1800 700 600.

Spring into a broader social life this month AS THE days warm up and the sun stays shining longer, spring is a good time for seniors to work on renewing their social and support connections.

While any time is a good time to stop and reflect on the health of relationships that impact on you, spring may be the catalyst that you need to start that process.

Finding the right person or place to connect with is

the next step.

Relationships Australia elder abuse prevention and support service has five case managers across Queensland.

Relationships Australia support service case manager Benjamin O’Rourke said social connection is extremely important for anyone, particularly those that are experiencing elder abuse.

A person who is

isolated and who lacks connection from neighbours, family or community, is one many of factors that may heighten the risk of elder abuse. Some good tips for seniors to socially connect are: ■ Visit your library where there are often free information sessions are conducted.

■ Talk to the local council which can link you to

senior support groups.

■ Contact your community centre.

■ Talk to your local church leader about support groups.

■ Have a conversation with your family members or close friend.

“This could be a good time for you to check in with your GP as well,” Ben recommends.

He also suggests if you have a Home Care

package, to talk to your service provider.

“Spring might be a good time to say I want to have a planning meeting and talk about my support needs,” Ben adds.

If you have immediate elder abuse concerns, you should phone one of the following services: ■ Relationships Australia on 1300 063 232 or visit relationships.org.au.

■ Seniors Enquiry Line

1300 135 500 or visit seniorsenquiryline. com.au.

■ 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.

■ Elder Abuse Prevention Units in your state – NSW 1800 628 221, QLD 1300 651 192, VIC 1300 368 821, ACT (02) 6205 3535, SA 1800 372 310, WA (08) 9479 7566, Tasmania 1800 441 169.

■ Lifeline on 131 144.

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SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Living

A GOOD DEAL: Having a concession applied is simple. If you hold a Seniors card, Gold card, Pension concession card or Immicard, just contact your electricity supplier and let them know and they will confirm and apply it on the spot.

Photo: Contributed

Find the best energy deal Concessions could save you big bucks on your power bills supported the state and are now retired.

Gold Card Holders Veterans are entitled to a concession through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Pension Concession Card Holders Those who currently qualify for a Pension Concession Card or a Commonwealth Healthcare Card are eligible for a concession.

Immicard Holders There is also an asylum seeker assistance for those eligible with an Immicard.

One of the main reasons eligible people do not have a concession applied to their electricity account is simply lack of knowledge.

It is a shortfall of the system that these concessions are not applied automatically and individuals must ask for them. Your retailer should have systems in place to make sure that all of their customers are aware of the concessions they are entitled to.

If you don’t remember being asked about concessions by your

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from other people or issues, these are entitlements that have been set aside by the government for this purpose.

The State Government also distributed earnings from state owned electricity assets to the value of $50 to each residential electricity account across the whole state regardless of eligibility for concessions.

Everyone should have seen this on their account for the April/May period and if you have not you should contact your

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The second highest reason for not having a concession applied is that eligible Queenslanders don’t like getting assistance.

The cost of living pressure continues to face all Queenslanders and those eligible for concessions are representative of that group more than most.

It is important to remember that in claiming your concession you are not taking funds away

electricity supplier.

Having a concession applied is simple, if you hold one of the above mentioned cards, just contact your electricity supplier and let them know and they will confirm and apply it on the spot.

Unfortunately, backdating the concession has limitations, but moving forward you could be saving around $340 each year on your electricity bills.

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IT WAS highlighted in the Queensland budget that only 7 in 10 eligible people take advantage of the energy concessions available to them.

This means that 57,000 eligible people did not utilise any electricity concession, which equates to just over $19 million of unclaimed concessions.

These concessions are in place to support different groups of Queenslanders in dealing with rising cost of living pressures.

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LIVING

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Looking for a Home Care Package Provider?

BRAND INSIGHTS QUEENSLAND provider Ozcare is one of several organisations that offer home care services to those approved for home care packages.

With so many home care providers, and many more looking to enter the market, it can be difficult to distinguish between them all.

Ozcare’s Chief Operating Officer Damian Foley recommends looking into the range of services that can be offered by the provider, and what administration costs will be.

“Our point of difference is our care team – each one of our clients has access to a team of nurses, carers, allied health professionals and dementia specialists who work together to look at all aspects of the client’s care,” Mr Foley said.

“We also make sure our

clients have consistent carers because we know this is really important to them.

“It’s critical that they’re comfortable with the person that might be helping them with quite personal activities like taking a shower.”

Ozcare has proudly served the Sunshine Coast community for the past 22 years with a myriad of services.

From expert aged care, health and disability services through to community support services to help those in the region who are most vulnerable and facing a crisis.

The not-for-profit organisation is dedicated to supporting Sunshine Coast seniors with a full suite of aged care services including a retirement village, home care, expert nursing and allied health services, dementia care and aged care facilities.

“Our complete service offering means that we can be there for our clients through all stages of aged care. Our experienced care teams work with clients, their carers and families to ensure they receive the best possible care, which is personalised to meet their individual needs,” Mr Foley said.

“We can provide anything from a small amount of assistance around the house or help to downsize to move into a friendly, vibrant retirement community, to permanent care in one of our aged care facilities.

“Our focus is on keeping people well and agile, and helping them to age in the comfort of their own homes. When they can no longer stay at home, we can help bring meaning and purpose to their lives in one of our aged care facilities, which we strive to make feel like home.”

HELPING HAND: Ozcare’s point of difference is its care team.

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SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Laguna Estate - a lifestyle choice ADVERTISEMENT

Is ‘grandma’s ghetto’ your idea of a retirement village? If so, stop right there! There is nothing further from the truth.

In the past, most residents entered these villages aged in their seventies as part of a move to downsize, decrease maintenance responsibilities, experience a greater sense of safety and security, or for health and lifestyle reasons.

Today, younger retirees from age 55 are seeing the benefits of relocating to a retirement village, with the emphasis on lifestyle and making the move a liberating experience.

To those who say that they are not ready for such a move, many of the residents at Laguna Estate say that they wish they had made the decision earlier. It has given them the freedom to travel, visit family or just pursue new hobbies without any of the worries they previously had with the upkeep and security issues of their previous home.

Combining outstanding resort facilities with stylish homes in a fully landscaped environment, this village strikes the perfect balance between privacy and independence whilst encouraging a vibrant and rewarding community in which to live.

There are spacious villas and serviced apartments from which

to choose, all in a quiet, peaceful location yet so close to all the vibrant action of Noosa. The range of facilities is cleverly geared towards anyone over the age of 55, whether you are physically active or prefer a quieter lifestyle - and the grandchildren are welcome here. so what will sell you on your decision to make Laguna Estate your home?

It is a combination of many things – particularly the smart community facilities and the activities which cater for all lifestyles, but also the quality finish of both the new and the refurbished villas, the resortstyle feel, the professional and hugely cheerful staff and the low monthly fees.

At some time in the future you may need living assistance but this too is catered for at Laguna Estate with assisted care apartments available. Three meals a day, cleaning, weekly towel & linen changes and 24 hour on-call emergency staff are all part of the service.

Laguna Estate is a class act – phone 1800 012 049 for lots more information and an appointment to view this special retirement estate at 21 Lake Weyba Drive, Noosaville.

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SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

NEWS

Shout for the drought

Buderim retirees challenge others to dig deep for farmers EVERYONE who watches the news and sees the dreadful plight of drought affected farmers wishes they could do something about it.

Australian farmers are suffering through the worst drought on record.

Stories of catastrophic livestock and crop losses come into our living room through the news almost nightly.

Often it is too hard to think our small help could make a difference and we turn away from the television.

But not so the residents at Nature’s Edge Buderim, led by Bryan Hughes and his fellow social committee members.

They are calling on all over 50s lifestyle and retirement communities to join them in fundraising for these farmers by simply donating 50 cents from every drink bought at social events.

Bryan Hughes said Nature’s Edge Buderim will donate 50 cents from every drink sold over the

bar for the next four weeks, giving the money to Sunshine Coast based aid organisation Drought Angels.

Tash Johnston, co-founder of Drought Angels, said there’s a massive shortage of feed for livestock in Queensland. One truckload of hay costs more than $10,000 and lasts just three days to a week at most.

Mr Hughes is aiming to raise more than $500 over the next four weeks.

“It’s easy to forget how tough it is for people on the land. We’re lucky to live on the Sunshine Coast and it’s only right we try to help where we can,” he said.

“We hope other retirement community social clubs will join us in fundraising for this important cause.”

If you’d like to be involved, phone Nature’s Edge Buderim on 1800 218 898 or go to naturesedgebuderim. com.au.

FOR THE ANGELS: Bryan Hughes, along with residents of Nature’s Edge Buderim, will donate 50c from every drink sold over the bar for the next four weeks, giving the money to Drought Angels.

Photo: Contributed

41

Seniors portfolio boosted SENIOR Australians are one step closer to being fully recognised as an important part of the Australian community.

Under the newly appointed Morrison Government, Ken Wyatt MP has been appointed to represent and champion seniors interests at the highest political level.

Minister Wyatt has had his list of portfolios extended to include, in addition to Aged Care and Indigenous Health, Senior Australians.

Officially Seniors News has been advised that Mr Wyatt’s focus will be “on taking a broader, whole-of-government approach to advancing the interests of senior Australians”.

Minister Wyatt remains sitting in the outer ministry with six other ministers. Inside the Cabinet room are 23 senior ministers.

Seniors News is seeking from Minister Wyatt details of his new portfolio responsibilities and its relationship to senior minister portfolios which impact on seniors.

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SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Money

Tony Kaye MOVING from employment into retirement is one of the most stressful financial stages in life but it may be surprising to learn that the older we get, the more we tend to save.

That’s one of the findings from actuarial services provider Milliman in a new report, which suggests that retirees’ age is just as strong an indicator of behaviour as income level.

It casts doubt on common benchmarks, such as using a percentage of one’s final salary as a retirement savings target, which makes little allowance for lifestyle changes.

Of course, some of us will spend more in retirement than others.

Some will run out of superannuation money and need to rely on the Age Pension.

Yet the Milliman Retirement Expectations and Spending Profiles report shows that the median retired couple’s expenditure falls by more than one-third (36.7 per cent) as they move from early retirement (age 65–69) and into older age (85 years and beyond).

Interestingly, this new analysis includes the latest census income data and shows that poor, middle-income and

The numbers are in, we are saving more

high-income retirees all show similar declines in expenditure throughout retirement.

The research tracks personal income (using census data) against expenditure (using the Milliman Retirement ESP) for low-income retirees (annual income below $33,800).

While expenditure briefly peaks above income just before retirement in their early 60s, it quickly tapers off into older age.

These low-income earners actually earn their highest lifetime incomes through retirement, earning more as they age.

This is largely due to the support of the government Age Pension.

Middle-income retirees (annual income between $33,800 and $91,000) also show similar declining expenditure (although their expenditure never exceeds income).

Their peak spending – as a proportion of their income – is reached in their late 60s.

At this point, average incomes are sitting about $54,000 and spending is at a little more than $30,000.

Similarly, high-income earners (annual income above $91,000) are also saving money into retirement.

Their spending drops from a peak figure of about $80,000 a year at about age 50 to about $65,000 in the late 60s,

RETIREMENT SPENDING: The older we get, the more we tend to save. to about $38,000 once they hit age 85.

The Milliman research shows that while wealthier retirees spend more in absolute terms, all three groups are saving money in retirement to greater and lesser degrees.

The Milliman Retirement ESP provides the most accurate possible picture of retiree behaviour by tracking changes in the real-world expenditure of more than 300,000 older Australians.

It shows that the average proportion of income spent on housing, food, energy, leisure, goods and services, travel

and insurance either declines slightly or remains the same, regardless of income levels, through retirement.

Only expenditure on healthcare increases.

Travel is the biggest loser as we age and lose mobility, falling from about 8 per cent of spending to less than 4 per cent.

Yet while overall spending declines, there are still significant variations between the lowest and highest earners in terms of how money is spent.

There are also important expenditure trends under way, with home ownership levels

declining in Sydney and Melbourne while energy prices are escalating quickly.

Milliman consultant Jeff Gebler said although energy represented a small proportion of overall household expenditure, the amount spent was significantly correlated to income levels – higher-income households had more expensive (and energy-consuming) lifestyles.

Energy expenditure increases until about age 65 and then stabilises before rising from age 80 (this may be because elderly Australians spend more time at home and

Photo: Wavebreakmedia

want to feel more comfortable rather than moving into aged care accommodation).

All this data is interesting but it has some practical implications as well.

For one thing, superannuation funds and other financial product groups should be using it to design products to better meet the long-term income needs of retirees.

Tony Kaye is the editor of Eureka Report, which is owned by listed financial services group InvestSMART. Visit www. investsmart.com.au.

What influences value for the Australian dollar?

THE value of the Australian dollar rises and falls relative to other currencies around the world every day. The AUD/USD is a code name for the Aussie dollar’s pairing with the US dollar.

At the halfway point of 2018, the Australian dollar had fallen further and faster than most economists thought at the start of the year.

Forecasts for the Australian dollar vary from bank to bank from month to month, with forecasts currently between 72–74 cents to $US1 by the end of the year.

What influences the AUD/USD? The level of demand for a currency will affect its market price.

■ If more people are wanting to buy AUD/USD than sell it, the $A value will go up.

■ More sellers of AUD/USD means the value of $A will go down.

Who buys and sells the currencies?

■ Overseas travellers.

■ Companies may require it to do business with suppliers in other countries.

■ Institutions and investors trying to benefit from the ups and downs in value. Currency traders buy in and out of these exchange rate pairs all day long in the hope of gains.

What influences the $AUD value?

The outlook for global growth – which remains

generally positive.

■ Movements in Australia’s commodity export prices (oil, gas, coal etc). This either increases or decreases our “terms of trade” (the amount of money Australia brings in through exports relative to the amount we spend on imports). While we are still in a relative bear market after the last decade’s surge in commodity exports and prices, current global growth is still expected to support our commodity prices and thereby provide a “floor” for the $A. ■ The gap between interest rates in the US and Australia.

If, over time, Australian inflation and costs rise

relative to the $US, then the $A should fall to maintain its real purchasing power and competitiveness.

Also, any rise in US interest rates relative to Australia can make it more attractive to park money in the US and hence push the $A down.

Currently the US Fed are continuing to hike rates while Australian rates remain on hold, so this could lead to continued downward pressure on the $A. ■ How Asian currencies such as the Chinese yuan and Japanese yen are performing because more than 75 per cent of our exports are to Asia.

When China’s economy was growing at full speed

a few years ago, it was buying up Australian resources in order to build and develop, pushing commodity prices up as a result. Many investors recognised the Australian dollar as a beneficiary.

But conversely, when demand from China and elsewhere in Asia slows, the Australian dollar’s appeal diminishes and this has been part of the downward trend in the $A. For more Information contact Mark Digby at Maher Digby Securities Pty Ltd – Financial Advisers – AFSL No.230559 (see advertisement Page 3).

Phone (07) 5441 1266 or go to maherdigby.com.au.

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 expert.

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

43

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45

46

BETTER DRIVING

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

GET THERE SAFELY: Taking a moment to learn about being a safer driver can help seniors stay in their cars for longer.

Top driving tips for seniors

Tracey Johnstone EVEN though you have probably been driving for countless years, taking a moment to learn what you could do to be a safer driver could save a life – and that life could be yours.

University of the Sunshine Coast senior research fellow Dr Bridie Scott-Parker offers some top tips for better driving.

Drivers: ■ Keep your distance by staying at least four seconds behind the vehicle in front of you.

“It gives us time to stop if

the person in front suddenly stops and it gives you extra space to stop if there is someone right behind your car,” Dr Scott-Parker said.

■ Retain the four-second gap even when you are driving around town.

■ Recognise and be aware of road hazards, such as roundabouts, weather conditions, a variety of road users such as motorcycles or trucks, and the rules around merging, overtaking and tailgating.

■ Always look behind before you reverse.

■ If you struggle to see behind your car when

reversing or when you are changing lanes, find out what you can do to modify your car so you can see clearly, such as bigger mirrors.

■ Be conspicuous by ensuring your driving lights are on when driving at night. Just because your dashboard automatically lights up when you start your car doesn’t mean your headlights have come on as well.

■ If you have cataracts, don’t drive at night as headlights can make it difficult to see.

■ Take the time to plan your day carefully so you

aren’t feeling pressured to speed to get to an appointment. Also plan for roadwork delays and traffic, and slow down.

■ Stay up to date on the road rules.

■ Ask yourself – do you need to drive or could you catch a bus or car pool.

Pedestrians: If you prefer to walk somewhere you still need to know the road rules.

“Look left and right before you cross the road,” Dr Scott-Parker said.

“If you are a pedestrian, never cross the road until you have made contact with the driver, such as

eye contact, smiling or a little wave. Don’t assume because the driver has looked at you that they have actually seen you.

“Their brain might be on something completely different. Keep looking left and right as you are crossing the road and when you get to the other side, hopefully the driver is there waiting for you.

“Again, give a little smile, a little wave and have that eye contact.”

When walking at dusk or at night, wear a reflective vest or top so drivers can see you.

Passengers: Seniors should delegate some

co-driving tasks to their passengers.

“It’s not nagging, it’s co-driving,” Dr Scott-Parker said.

“Look left and right if the car is pulling up to a stop sign. Don’t just let the driver be responsible, they might miss something.

“It can be a little tricky though if you have a husband who for 50 years has ignored everything you have said and doesn’t want you to contribute.

“That’s when our wonderful ladies can say, ‘I’m not nagging.

Dr Bridie said I am co-driving’.”

Teach yourself to store car keys safely

HIDE THEM: Thieves have discovered retirement villages are a fertile ground for finding unlocked cars, garage openers and keys in plain view. Photo: Photobac

DON’T assume that living in a retirement village means your car will be safe from thieves.

There was a time when you could park and leave your car unlocked and it would safe. Not any more, says detective Senior Sergeant Daren Edwards, of Queensland Police Service.

Thieves have discovered retirement villages are a fertile ground for finding unlocked cars, garage openers and keys in plain view inside a house.

“They can go into those

communities and it’s generally not a place where you have police circling around or a lot of people movement,” Sen Sgt Edwards said.

“People also leave their remotes in the car and then the crooks use it to unlock the garage and then they are in the house.

“And everyone used to have a key rack for their keys. Offenders just look through the window and see the keys sitting there.

“We recently had a chap lose his vehicle while it was parked in his

retirement village in Noosa. He had left both the fob keys on the floor of the car.”

Sen Sgt Edwards also wants seniors living in rural areas or on acreage to stop being lax about their car’s and potentially their own security.

He recommends to all seniors it’s time to change their habits: ■ Park your car inside the garage, rather than on the driveway.

■ Lock your car when parked inside your garage or the carport, or on the street.

■ Leave the car keys in a safe place and out of sight, not in the car.

■ Put a message in your mobile phone, such as a phone contact called Car, with the location of where you have stored your car keys.

■ Tell a friend, family member or neighbour where you are safely storing your car keys, in case you forget their hiding place.

■ Put your keys at the back of a drawer, not at the front where a thief can easily see them.

SENIORS \\SEPTEMBER, 2018

PUZZLES

JIGGERED

3/9

The challenge is to rearrange a crossword which has been broken into 25 sections. One letter has been given to get you started. Work out which s uare ts in with that letter and write in the letters.

You can also shade the black s uares i you nd it hel ul. ter co leting the rst area work out which s uare oins on to it and continue until you have ade a co lete crossword.

M P O L A T

A R O U M O N

S E E A Y A R

J E R O T

H A F Y L

N S E K E

E A F L A S U

W E B N O P O

N Y

M

B E

I T N D A

E T A O T A P

M E T A F E R

E T R

O O F

M A C A A H A R

O A G V A W A

T V A M A G

O O D N R E R

V E E R R I

A C R E D

E S E C T R E

H E L O A S U R

N I

I N I C T W N C V E T

Z E O

C D E K E

N

QUICK CROSSWORD Across 1. The last in a line (4,3) 5. Soak (5) 8. Comprehension (13) 9. Nonetheless (3) 10. Person used in an experiment (6,3) 12. Tunnel (6) 13. Ascending (6) 15. Not covered, nanciall (9) 16. Crone (3) 18. Inexplicable (13) 20. Link (3-2) 21. Cut apart (7)

1

Down 1. Honestl (5) 2. Unspeci ed (13) 3. Outrageous (9) 4. Dela (6) 5. Uproar (3) 6. Be ond doubt or reproach (13) 7. Occupied (7) 11. Speeds up, facilitates (9) 12. Flower arrangement (7) 14. Land (6) 17. Welcome (5) 19. Point against (3)

2

3

4

5

47

6

7

16

17

8

9

10

11

12

13 14

15

18

19

TRIO

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

SUDOKU

20

21

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

Y

Across: 1. Tail end 5. Douse 8. Understanding 9. Yet 10.

Guinea pig 12. Burrow 13. Upward 15. Uninsured 16. Hag 18.

Unaccountable 20. Tie-in 21. Dissect.

Down: 1. Truly 2. Indeterminate 3. Egregious 4. Detain 5. Din 6. Unimpeachable 7. Engaged 11. Expedites 12. Bouquet 14.

Ground 17. Greet 19. Con.

QUICK CROSSWORD D E N S

S T E M

E N L A R G E D

A G U E

R G E E R A S E A T A R N T R U S S L O T A Y O G R A G A A M R O B I D O P E L E S

E Y E

QUIZ

S G E U R O N A L E S S M A M A I N C I D S T I N H O S S S C O T R O OM I T T I N A L O B L EW E E M N A D Y

C O OW M E A S

8 LETTERS COINCID MITTING NLA G D G ANULA GUNSMITH HOLOG AM INSC IB NAUS AT

1. Which mountain is Australia’s highest: Mount McKinley, Mount Kosciuszko or Mount Kurumda?

2. Which planet was the first in our Solar System to be discovered with a telescope?

3. Is an apse a poisonous snake, part of a church or a police officer’s telescopic truncheon?

4. What is the name of the professor in the game Cluedo?

5. Who was buried in 1901 wearing her wedding veil and with a plaster cast of her dead husband’s hand?

6. What was Dexy’s Midnight Runners’ 1982 hit song?

7. In which sport is the Stanley Cup awarded?

8. The Aswan High Dam is built on which river?

S T A R

6 LETTERS GAMBOL AM OD SOL MN ST SS

QUIZ

U N I T

5 LETTERS ADIOS

ASCOT SAT STINT TOTAL T USS

P O D S

4 LETTERS AGU ALO BID COMA D NS DIAL A N S G A L SS

L WD MAMA M SS MIL OD S ONTO OP N OW S PODS PUSS IP OOM SACS SAGA SLOT SOOT SOYA STA ST M TOGA UNIT U G

WORDFIT

3 LETTERS AY DY AT ND A Y G MAY NAB NOW OWN AY

1. Mount Kosciuszko, 2 Uranus, 3. Part of a church, 4. Professor Plum, 5. Queen ictoria, 6. Come On ileen , 7. Ice hocke , 8. Nile.

Solution opposite

JIGGERED

Fit the words into the grid to create a nished crossword

TRIO: SCo

WORDFIT

SUDOKU

Good 14 Very Good 18 Excellent 22+

ALPHAGRAMS

F N

BoLES, CLoUTS, DELIVER, ENTRAILS, FLASHIEST.

576

M E T A F E R T Z E O O O D N R E R E O T O R F E T A O T A P

TODAY

T

L I

LOB S LOCUST IL D LAT IN S FAITHL SS

N I H E L T W O A S U R I C H A T V F Y A M A L G E S E A F E C L T R E A S U N A S E C R E K E D V E N I C E N R R I V E

I S

N K

How man words of four letters or more can ou make ach letter must be used onl once and all words must contain the centre letter.

There is at least one nine-letter word.

No words starting with a capital are allowed, no plurals ending in s unless the word is also a verb, e.g. he burns with anger.

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

WORD GO ROUND

WORD GO ROUND

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

fist fits flint flit flits instil kilt kilts kist kits knit knits lift lifts lint list sift silt SKINFLINT skint skit slit snit stink tiki tins

ALPHAGRAMS

48

SUNSHINE COAST

SEPTEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

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