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Longevity: debits/credits

INDEX 3 4 12 17 18 24 25 33 36 39 42 43

News - Care Grant opportunity Profile - A change of address New true costs of ageing prisoners Dementia Care Community group guide What’s on Wanderlust Wellbeing Living Money Review Puzzles

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Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor HELLO friends. This month I couldn’t resist celebrating Dr David Bottomley’s life-long learning journey. Regardless of age, his curiosity to know, learn and contribute to society seems unabated and they’re the qualities I’m sure we would all like to keep intact. But I do know that besides academic learning, we, as elders, have a good deal to share with other generations. Personally, I love a day at the river with my granddaughter just chatting about everything we see around us – there’s so much to explore, explain and enjoy as we share our lives together. As we know, one of the key factors changing the world today is increased longevity. The same as everything else, these extra years have their debits and credits. This month, our regular double-page feature investigates how authorities are dealing with ageing prisoners. For instance, people in wheelchairs need wider corridors, dementia patients require alternative caring and, ultimately, the big question: should the needs of ageing prisoners be facilitated

within the prison system or should they be settled in nursing homes? As we go to press with this story, the topic is emphasised with a physically ailing 77-year-old Cardinal George Pell being sentenced to prison. To give us a worldwide view on this particular issue, I have also written about the situation in Japan, which boasts the best longevity rates in the world. Our Wellbeing and Living pages have a wide range of tips on how to lead our best senior lives - including sunscreen in our morning routine to better sleep habits and, yes, if you have the space, how to grow grapes and, of course, we always end with our whopper puzzle. — Enjoy, Gail

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

AI road tests Queensland Seniors News QUEENSLAND University of Technology researchers are taking an electric car fitted with high-tech artificial intelligence sensors and computers on a three-month, 1200km Queensland road trip. Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the road trip in a zero-emissions Renault ZOE would map

Queensland roads for the cars of the future. “The QUT trial, in partnership with the Palaszczuk Government, is the first step in charting Queensland’s vast and varied road network for new vehicle technologies,” Mr Bailey said. “As researchers drive the car across Queensland, onboard sensors will build a virtual map to help refine AI-equipped vehicles to drive safely on our roads.

“It’s early days yet, but artificial intelligence technology and smart road infrastructure have potential to transform the way we travel in Queensland and reduce road trauma. “This is world-leading transport technology research and it’s happening right here in Queensland.” The road trip is part of the Palaszczuk Government’s Cooperative and Highly Automated

Driving pilot and is supported by the iMOVE Cooperative Research Centre. Professor Michael Milford from QUT’s Australian Centre for Robotic Vision said the challenge for the current generation of automated vehicles was driving as well as people. “Engineers at QUT’s research engineering facility have developed a research car platform equipped with a range of

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state-of-the-art camera and lidar sensors used on automated vehicles,” Prof Milford said. “As we drive, AI will watch and determine if it could perform the same as a human driver in all conditions.” Prof Milford said early testing of the system had already revealed how a paint spill on the road could confuse a selfdriving AI system into wrongly identifying it as a lane marking.

The upcoming research will specifically look at how the automated vehicle’s AI system adapts to road conditions in four main areas: ■ Lane markings; ■ Traffic lights; ■ Street signage; and ■ Overcoming the limitations of GPS systems in built-up areas and tunnels for vehicle positioning. More information is online at www.qld.gov.au/cavi.

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CARE: Stockland’s CARE Grants Program (previously the Stockland Community Grants program) provides an opportunity for local community groups to apply for grant funding to support local community infrastructure, programs & opportunities.

Opportunity to receive grants

STOCKLAND has announced the launch of its annual CARE Grants program for 2019, inviting local not-for-profit and community groups to apply for funding to help create more cohesive, inclusive and engaging community-based programs and local opportunities. Committed to shaping vibrant communities, Stockland will once again award up to $300,000 to organisations across the country to support local community-building initiatives. Stockland’s CARE Grants program offers funding support to local groups, clubs and programs who support health, wellbeing, community connection, education, or local environmental initiatives. Those seeking funding are encouraged to apply for a CARE Grant via the Stockland Shopping Centre, Residential Community or Retirement

Living Village in their local government area or go to stockland.com.au. Tiernan O’Rourke, Chief Financial Officer at Stockland, said: “Stockland is proud to once again lend a hand to community groups across Australia with the 2019 CARE Grants program. This program enables us to recognise and invest in and show our support for the local community groups who make such a difference to the social fabric of where we live, work, shop and play, now and into the future.” Since 2014, the Stockland CARE Grants program has distributed more than $1.2 million in funding to more than 1000 local community groups across the country. “Stockland has a long-standing commitment to work with the community through its shopping centres, retirement living villages and residential

communities across the country. We focus on building liveable, thriving communities and are proud to support local groups who make such a difference in their communities every single day.” said Mr O’Rourke. Stockland’s CARE Grants program is accepting entries from 9am (AEDT) on Monday, February 25, until 5pm (AEDT) on Friday, March 22, 2019. Community groups will be selected based on a range of criteria relating to Stockland’s key community and environmental focus areas. The grant recipients will be announced from week commencing May 27, 2019. For more information on the Stockland CARE Grants program, past recipients and selection criteria please go to stockland.com.au /caregrants.

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A change of address Alison Houston DID you ever think that moving house could change your identity? It’s true for all ages, but particularly for seniors choosing to retire overseas, to seaside or rural idylls, from the farm to town or city, to be near family, downsizing or moving to a nursing home. “Our identities are created and evolve in places,” said Dr Rachael Wallis, of USQ’s Institute for Resilient Regions. When we move to a new house, particularly if it’s a big move to a new area, we become the newcomer, which influences how we are perceived by others, and how we perceive them. We lose our “comfort zone” of our local neighbourhood, roads, shops and healthcare we are familiar with, people and faces we know, perhaps even behaviours and attitudes we expect. If you no longer work or have children at school, it can be more difficult to make social connections. Rachael’s research has

shown that people who become actively involved in their new community, through social or sporting clubs and charities or volunteering, thereby getting to know people and making new friends, have much happier and more successful moves. Being open to changing your own ways and attitudes was also important, particularly if you moved to a country with a different culture. “The people who adapt most easily are those who get themselves involved and find a community of people they can talk to easily,” Rachael said. “It’s important to be satisfied and happy in yourself in order to make inroads into making a new life.” Being realistic about the things you can and cannot control is important. For instance moving solely to be near family who already have their own full life, and expecting them to change for you, could be setting yourself up for failure. “You need to clearly establish guidelines so

AT HOME: Dr Rachael Wallis said our identities are shaped by our environment, and our choices are heavily influenced by media, such as this image of herself at home in a pretty Toowoomba country setting. Photo: Bruce Woolley everyone’s expectations are clear from the start,” Rachael said. It was also very important, she said, not to underestimate how much our ideas are influenced by the media in all its forms when making our decisions, and to fact-check as much as

possible. People reported being influenced towards sea or tree changes by programs as far back as the 1970s British TV series The Good Life, through to A Country Practice, Sea Change and River Cottage, as well as by movies, books, poetry and art, painting an idyllic

small-town life, without importing into that picture the realities and demands of their own lives. Unlike other moves, which are generally seen as positive, providing new-found freedom, job options or the chance to have a family, for seniors forced to downsize or

move into a nursing home due to health concerns, moving is often associated with negative emotions, fear and loss of independence. “The important thing is that it is that person’s decision,” Rachael said. Taking a proactive approach was again the key to success, she said, looking at downsizing or accepting home care help, for instance, as means of maintaining independence, and accepting having lived long enough to reach the age of needing help as a positive. “What is most important is to have good relationships and for life to be meaningful,” Rachael said. That could mean completing a crossword, reading, helping a neighbour, keeping in touch by phone, letters or social media, or whatever your situation allows to stay interested and ward off isolation. “It all helps you feel bigger than yourself – that you are useful and you are not facing ageing on your own.”

SENIORS \\MARCH, 2019

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Ray’s best job in retirement Tracey Johnstone

TO MARKET, TO MARKET: Ray Kelly is part of the Eumundi Markets family as it celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. He creates handmade sandals under the name Nedz Sandals. Photo: Shirley Andrews people like that rather than buying an import, which isn’t as comfortable and not as well made,” Ray said. “I make them there on site. I bring all my soles and leather bits. People go off for coffee and

something to eat for about 45 minutes and I custom-make to suit larger or smaller feet.” The leather is soft, the soles are padded to make them gentler on the feet and mould to the foot shape and the colour

choices are broad. And if you have one foot bigger than the other, like a lot people, Ray is a magician at catering for that too. “I did shoes for one lady who had one size six foot and one size seven

foot,” he said. He’s had customers come back after three or four years, still wearing their Nedz Sandals. “It’s not hard work, it’s creative and it keeps the mind active,” Ray said. “The good thing about

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THE twists and turns of life have delivered Ray Kelly into the Eumundi Markets family, where his handmade sandals are easing him into his senior years. At 68, Ray is a pretty chilled kind of guy. Still a twice-weekly surfer at his home beach near Noosa, he also keeps himself busy creating his unique offering of Nedz Sandals. His original work characterises the markets that are celebrating their 40th anniversary this year. Ray says he started visiting the markets more than 20 years ago to enjoy the food and live music. A lot has changed since then, including a growth spurt, which has seen it triple in size. Five years ago, the Eumundi Markets’ vibrancy and growth encouraged the former builder to revive his 1970s leather-work business and open Nedz Sandals at the markets. “I am the only one that does it and because it’s a handmade product,

NEWS

MARCH, 2019// SENIORS

Early test for new boss Improved standards of aged care top of agenda

THE new Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner has a big job ahead of her, keeping watch over a rapidly changing sector as it provides vital services for older Australians, writes Jennifer Hullick. After the dire challenges faced by aged care service recipients and providers in recent years – with the Oakden nursing home tragedy at the forefront – the sector is undergoing major change across Australia, says new federal Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner Janet Anderson. Anderson took up her position on January 2, at the head of the new national commission which replaces the Aged Care Complaints Commissioner and the Australian Aged Care Quality Agency. The commission’s purpose is to hold aged care service providers to account and to attend to recipients’ complaints. “Under our Act, we are required to ... enhance the safety, health, quality of life and wellbeing of aged care recipients,” Anderson said. “It’s making sure that aged care providers receiving Commonwealth subsidies are doing the job that is expected of them. “Those standards – which are about to change – set out as clearly as possible the way in which services need to be delivered, but more particularly the outcome being sought from the delivery of care.

AGED CARE ROYAL COMMISSION ❚ It’s been a baptism of fire for new Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner Janet Anderson, with The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety opening in Adelaide on January 18 just two weeks after she started in the job ❚ Senior Counsel Assisting Peter Gray told the preliminary hearing that 54 per cent of submissions raised issues about unsafe care, while 59 per cent aired concerns about staffing ratios ❚ The first formal hearings of the Royal Commission were held in mid-February

The new Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner, Janet Anderson, is determined to ensure that aged care providers receiving government subsidies are meeting the standards expected of them. Photo: Britta Campion “My audit teams go into nursing homes and look at the home care services and make an assessment of the extent to which those services are compliant with the standards. “That’s a core function.” Aged Care Minister Ken Wyatt said the new commission would better target substandard care and work to ensure the safety of older Australians.

“A single commissioner overseeing compliance monitoring, complaints and customer service means no more silos,” Wyatt said. “For the first time, senior Australians and their loved ones have one place to go when they need help, want to raise a concern or access information about an aged care service. “The commission will also be empowered by the

new aged care Charter of Rights and will implement the new, stronger set of Aged Care Quality Standards, the first upgrade of standards in 20 years.” Speaking soon after taking on the new role, Anderson said she was optimistic about the future of the sector, with ongoing changes aimed at improving outcomes for older people. “We are also looking to

develop Consumer Experience Reports by home care recipients,” she said. The report system is an innovation recently introduced in nursing homes, which is revealing a raft of additional information previously unavailable to watchdog agencies or consumers. “If you go on our website, you can search by nursing home and find what the residents are

saying and their feedback on the care they are receiving,” Anderson said. “We haven’t yet introduced that for home care recipients but we are looking at the design ... so we can get the voice of the home care consumer as richly as we’ve now managed it for nursing home recipients.” Anderson said, in more than 90 per cent of cases, the commission had been able to achieve a resolution of consumer complaints to the agency. To fulfil its role, the commission has regional offices in every jurisdiction except the Northern Territory, which is serviced from Adelaide, with auditors making local visits to nursing homes and checking the standard of services from home care and home support providers.

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MARCH, 2019// SENIORS

Brits want pension upgrade HISTORY OF BRITISH PENSIONS

Gail Forrer FEELING ripped off. That’s how Jim Tilley feels, but he’s not leaving it at that. He’s up and fighting to see that all British ex-pats living in Australia understand the legalities of the UK state age pension. As the spokesperson for British Pensions in Australia [BPiA], he wants every person who has paid into compulsory national insurance contributions when working in the UK, to have the same pension rights as any other British citizen – living in the country or not. He aims to change the laws that freeze the UK age pension payment to Australian ex-pats from their year of relocation. He believes that regardless of location, people who paid into the British system should be entitled to the same annual yearly increases as any other British citizens. The British overseas residents pension situation has anomalies, which BPiA are seriously challenging.

EQUAL RIGHTS: Jim Tilley believes Aussie ex-pat pensioners are suffering monetary discrimination. Firstly, according to the BPiA, the UK pensions are up-rated annually for citizens living in the USA, Israel, the EU, the Philippines, Turkey etc, but they are not uprated in 48 of the 53 Commonwealth nations. Indeed when Mr Tilley put pen to paper, he was scathing of the system that is allowing the current pension scheme

to continue. “Freezing pensions of British ex-pats is an example of blatant miserly British Government discrimination from a nation which believes in and promotes itself as being fair minded, respecting equality, sound ethics and moral behaviour,” he wrote. Mr Tilley said there are many reasons people

leave their country, but it’s not usually for a grand holiday, moreover it’s often to support their family in other countries, and it is likely they have paid a lifetime of taxes into the British system. The BPiA has recently been supported by stage and screen actor Miriam Margolyes, who is no less scandalised and warns that the policy “plunges

the most vulnerable into poverty”. The BPiA are there to support anyone who finds interested in finding out about their eligibility for the the UK age pension. For help, either phone 1300 308 353 or visit www.bpia.org.au and in return for a small annual membership sub, they will give you their help.

Late 1940s: UK state pensions were first payable abroad. At the same time the UK began negotiating reciprocal agreements on a country by country basis. 1980s: The government stopped signing new agreements and the situations has not changed since. COUNTRIES WHERE THE BRITISH PENSION IS INDEXED Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, United States. COUNTRIES WHERE THE BRITISH PENSION IS NOT INDEXED There are about 90 counties (many in the Commonwealth) including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, India and Pakistan.

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MARCH, 2019// SENIORS

Australia’s newest PhD

Dr David gives new life to old knowledge Tracey Johnstone

DAVID Bottomley AM is Australia’s newest and oldest PhD graduate after completing his study of ancient school education methods that he believes have relevance to today’s school teachers. The 94-year-old said his wife, Anne, joked with him that he was a bit slow in getting a PhD, but after seven years of study he finished one year ahead of schedule. Dr Bottomley finished his first degree in 1948, took up teaching science and maths before moving into working in and studying social and market research. In 2008, 60 years after his first degree, he completed a Masters in Education. His love of study and of stretching his mind beyond the norm is in his blood. His father was a minister who welcomed his children to his library. “I worked my way up from the lowest shelf that I could reach,” he said. That experience instilled in him an enthusiasm to question everything. “It’s just a normal process where whatever you are placed in, you want to understand it and question it,” the scholar said. He cited the Royal Society of London’s motto that a science person should question, never just accept, and look for correlation. His brother Bob, who has a PhD in enzymatic chemistry, worked with the local flour millers during WWII to transform

LIFELONG LEARNING: Australia’s oldest PhD graduate, Curtin University’s Dr David Bottomley AM with his wife, Anne. the protein level of Victorians. He has a daughter, aged in her 60s, studying for a PhD in music and a granddaughter finishing a degree in medicine. Dr Bottomley’s Doctor of Philosophy was achieved through West Australia’s Curtin University and under the guidance of Distinguished Professor David Treagust. “I took five headmasters of equal positions in the 19th century, who were quite well known in the field of history of science, and I looked for the similarities and differences within these five,” he said. Each teacher created within the school

curriculum situations which Dr Bottomley’s described as “leading to students fitting in and running within a stimulating environment to higher learning for themselves”. Not surprisingly, about half his small home in Melbourne is taken up with his study materials which have grown to almost 80 lever-arch files full of his research. “It’s a rather crowded one,” Dr Bottomley says with a chuckle. “I am now redistributing the files with ideas for the next step.” The idea of stopping vigorously exercising his mind is all but a brief lapse in this exceptional

man’s thinking. He jokes he is in “great need of a haircut”, and since finishing his PhD, feeling “bored stiff”. But that is doubtful. While he might, for a brief moment, have wondered what he would do with himself each day, it’s taken no time for his curiosity to reassert itself. While Dr Bottomley addresses his need to get more active by heading out the door, pushing his walker around and studying his world, his mind is actively considering his next intellectual challenge. He has already identified as an outcome of his PhD thesis the subject of his next area of

study; “exploring the concomitance of creativity in schools”. He wants to find some area of interest from this research that will be valuable to current school teachers. Also on the radar is the wellbeing of his wife of 68 years. Anne lives in an aged care facility close-by. Dr Bottomley visits her three or four times a week and has keenly observed the environment she is living in. “We can change our focus by changing one letter,” he said. Care to cure is what he is talking about. “The challenge today is cure. What I hope to explore is people with

Photo: Jaimi Joy

different skills, crossfertilising with each other,” he said. “I would love to be in the position to make a presentation to this Royal Commission about nursing homes because what I want to say is, ‘heaven’s sake, change the idea of care to cure and you change the whole axis of your thinking about one of the huge problems of today’. “There is an enormous amount here I don’t know, but I hope to explore. “I wonder how many vested interests are going to resist me?” The learning journey is ongoing for this scholar, who happily describes life as “really exciting”.

A great galaxy of emerging stars in new student anthology EIGHT new USC graduates celebrated the publication of their first book on Thursday, February 21. The anthology, titled eMerge, features extracts of novels now underway by the Creative Writing master-level graduates. Settings range from parallel galaxies to dystopian Australia, and characters include a shipwrecked heroine, an alcoholic motorcyclist and a slave on the First Fleet. Members of the public interested in writing, studying or the creative

process came to the the self-published book launch at the USC Art Gallery, when the students gave short readings from their works. Speakers included senior lecturer Dr Paul Williams, who leads USC’s Creative Writing and Publishing program, author and lecturer Shelley Davidow and Boolarong Press general manager Dan Kelly who shared industry insights. Coolum’s Richard West, whose contribution is part of a memoir he is close to

‘‘

I found the lecturers and the students inspiring finishing, said the book’s publication was a major step for the group. “I found the lecturers and the students inspiring,” he said. “The exposure we had to great writers had a significant impact on my work.”

Dr Williams said USC’s current degree options included a Masters and PhD in Creative Writing, and a Bachelor of Creative Industries (Creative Writing and Publishing). Applications are still open to study at USC in 2019. For more details, go to usc.edu.au/learn. Three of the USC authors, Bianca Millroy of Maroochy River, Jo Anne Braithwaite of Noosa and Richard West of Coolum. Photo: contributed

SENIORS \\MARCH, 2019

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MARCH, 2019// SENIORS

The new, true costs of Tracey Johnstone PHIL Goulding stopped talking. It was only for a few moments, but the silence was noticeable. Up until then our conversation had been flowing freely. You see, we were talking about the face of ageing prisoners in Australia and it was quickly evident there is a lot of sensitivity around the subject. Mr Goulding is the deputy general manager of operations at Melbourne’s Wintringham, a specialist aged care provider for the homeless and disadvantaged. He is a member of a growing cohort of professionals across Australia gradually peeling back the layers to reveal the challenges for ageing prisoners who are in custody, rehabilitation or on release from prison, and for the corrective and justice health care workers managing these people. The professionals are focused on people aged 50 and over; in the prison system they are considered ‘ageing’. Many of them have entered the system with chronic health issues brought on by drug and alcohol use, poor nutrition, lack of medical care and, for some, after spending a lot of their life in both prison and juvenile detention. All of this escalates age-related illnesses. Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) researcher Matthew Willis said these factors often resulted in high levels of physical, mental health and cognitive impairment, and higher vulnerability to victimisation within the general prison population. These ageing prisoners fall loosely into four categories – recidivists,

AGEING JUSTICE: A snapshot of life inside the NSW Justice Health and Forensic Mental Health Network at Long Bay Correctional Centre. Photo: NSW Justice Health first-time prisoners incarcerated at an older age, inmates who are growing old in prison due to long sentences, and those who commit crime as a result of cognitive damage or decline.

GOING UP

The number of senior prisioners is increasing and so too is the cost of providing appropriate aged care health support and facilities which they have a right to access as stipulated under the UN Human Rights Committee in its International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights . In particular, this states the right of a prisoner to be treated with humanity, dignity and respect while in detention. At June 30, 2018 there were 5,554 prisoners aged 50 years and over – 94.3 per cent male and 5.7 per cent female – adding to Australia’s burgeoning prison

population. This is an increase of 81.6 per cent between 2001 and 2010, and another increase of 67 per cent from 2010 to 2018. At the same June date there were 1,156 prisoners aged 65 years and over – 97.2 per cent male and 2.7 per cent female. Between 2001 and 2010 there was an increase of about 128 per cent, and a further increase of 119.4 per cent during the years to 2018. The ABS in its Prisoners in Australia Report 2018 noted 62 per cent of the prisoners aged 65 and over have a “serious offence/charge of sexual assault and related offences”. The increase in numbers isn’t due solely to an ageing Australian population. “Another part of it is some of the changes we have had to sentencing laws and parole laws,” Mr

Willis said. Parole is now harder to get, which can result in people staying in prison for longer. There has also been improvements in DNA technology, investigative techniques and information handling which have all impacted on prosecuting old offences, including sex offences which can carry long life sentences. The consequence of the growth in older prisoners is an increase in remand costs due to specialist service delivery and facilities, changes to prison activities and upskilling correction and health services staff to cater for this cohort. In 2013-14 it was costing about $292 per prisoner per day according to the Report on Government Services 2015. The 1999 AIC report Elderly inmates: issues for Australia calculated that cost increases

three-fold for ageing prisoners.

WHO’S IN CHARGE

Currently eight jurisdictions look after prisoner welfare in Australia, each with its own ageing prisoner management approach. UNSW Kirby Institute researcher Dr Natasha Ginnivan suggests it’s time for a national policy approach to deal with accelerated ageing. “Because there isn’t a management plan in place for dementia, cognitive impairment or frailty, or pre-frailty which is a measure that has been used in population ageing, we don’t know the prevalence of some of the muscular-skeletal and mild cognitive concerns within this population,” Dr Ginnivan said. “We know that when they get to a certain stage it becomes very expensive to house them when they are frail, not withstanding the human rights issues

around providing appropriate care.” NSW, then Queensland and Victoria have the greatest number of ageing prisoners. In NSW, a Correction Services spokesperson reports most of the state’s older inmates are in mainstream facilities and their medical or disability concerns are considered, including placement in bottom bunks or ground floor placement. “The infrastructure at some facilities has also been modified with hand-rails above beds and in bathrooms, easy-to-use taps and ramps in yards,” the spokesperson said. Elderly and frail inmates are located in the Long Bay Aged Care Rehabilitation Unit and the Kevin Waller Unit. Old-age and neuro psychiatrist Dr Sharon Reutens said NSW had speciality psychiatrists and geriatricians, and speciality units to address the problems around dementia in ageing prisoners. Corrections Victoria (CV) developed a framework for 2015-2020 which identifies actions around designing and managing its correction services to meet the needs of its ageing prisoners. Subsequently, CV last month entered a contract with Wintringham. Mr Goulding said: “We’ve been asked to provide advice on older prisoners and assessing them for their care needs.” “It’s a really positive step. It’s the first time there is an acknowledgement that there is a gap.” Over the next three years they will look at two prisons to identify aged care needs, including where some prisoners

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NEWS

ageing prisoners

won’t admit their needs as they don’t want to be transferred. “At the end of the project, then further planning will be done.” Many of Victoria’s ageing prisoners are in a handful of centres such as Port Phillip Prison and the Hopkins Correctional Centre, which has recently been refurbished specifically to cater for prisoners needing aged care support. The Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) spokesperson said “while prison can be a challenging environment for older prisoners, every reasonable effort is made to support them while in our custody”.

CRITICAL CHALLENGES

In most states correctional facilities are cognisant of, or acting on, providing some facilities for ageing prisoners. But Dr Reutens questions how will justice health not only identify, but also cater for the complexities of dementia. “We need a societal discussion about it,” she said. “I think it has to stem from what is the purpose of prison and does incarcerating cognitively impaired people fulfil the purpose of the prison which is to deter and rehabilitate. “Can that be adequately addressed by imprisonment in a culturally impaired population? “It’s really hard in prison because everything is done for you. “You don’t make your breakfast, you have no household chores; all your activities for living are taken over so it can be really hard to identify. Someone can slip under the radar until they are

A world grappling with longevity issues

Gail Forrer

Acacia Prison in West Australia which has speciality aged care facilities included its design. Photo: Russell Barton

Long Bay Correctional Centre staff help elderly inmates tend to their bonsai plants.

Photo: Corrective Services NSW

quite demented.” When it comes to leaving prison at the end of a sentence or when parole is available, the options are limited if the person has aged care needs. “Where do you put a sex offender?” Mr Goulding asked. “In a good world, once you have done your time, everything is fine.” Mr Willis said: “In the case of older people, you are potentially releasing people who have

completed their sentence at quite an advanced age and needing specialist care and specialist type of accommodation, and in a lot of cases not having family and people who can provide that kind of support for them.” Under 65 the choice is NDIS. Over 65, it’s My Aged Care. But the wait times can be up to two years. “There can be a hiatus on release for some older prisoners and then they will probably end up with a

Resort Style Independent Living for the over 50’s

FORETOLD forewarned: Increased longevity is a fact of life in many parts of the planet, but it is Japan that boasts the world’s best longevity rates, with 27.3 per cent of its citizens 65 years or older. However, on the flip side of the coin, complaints and arrests involving elderly Japanese people, and women in particular, are taking place at rates above those of any other demographic in the country. Almost one in five women in a Japanese prison is a senior. Their crimes are usually minor – nine in 10 senior women who’ve been convicted were

‘‘

Almost one in five women in a Japanese prison is a senior. found guilty of shoplifting. As social policies are formed to serve increasing longevity in the Australian population, reasons behind the imprisonment rate of Japanese seniors for minor crimes is something that should be kept in mind. The minor nature of the crimes appears to be a cry for help in a

world where the social position of a very old (in numbers), yet healthy and active person has not yet been established long enough to have attained associated community institutions, structures and societal relations. In some cases these seniors are the first of three or four generations of family but are unable to access help from busy younger family members, or perhaps they are coping as the first and only generation. While we live longer lives, adjustments need to be made to social, emotional and/or financial resources available. Japanese statistics show that from 1980 to 2015, the number of seniors living alone increased more than sixfold, to almost six million. And a 2017 survey by Tokyo’s government found that more than half of the seniors caught shoplifting lived alone, while 40 per cent either don’t have family or rarely speak with relatives. These people often say they have no one to turn to when they need help. Further research by the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting and the International Women’s Media Foundation identified women as suffering not only financial strain, but loneliness and a lack of purpose. Sadly, prison was where they found a roof over their head and regular meals, along with companionship. Source: Various associated stories including Bloomberg Report

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GP or in a hospital and the system will pick them up,” Mr Willis said. The QCS said on release it connects eligible prisoners to the NDIS and aged care services. In Melbourne, Wintringham has an accommodation facility. In Sydney there is a new HammondCare venue. “HammondCare does not discriminate based on the criminal history of any potential residents,” residential care general manager Angela Raguz said. “When the Darlinghurst aged care venue for homelessness people is open, entry will be based on several factors including the physical, psychological and social needs of potential residents, as well as the safety of staff and other residents.” There is the opportunity for the issues around the health and wellbeing of ageing prisoners, which currently seems to be bubbling away under the surface of the community, to be addressed through the Aged Care Royal Commission. A spokesperson for the Commission said it may accept submissions on prison aged care and other services offered in prisons

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MARCH, 2019// SENIORS

Good health at a price Gail Forrer

Part of cure is subsidy

A NEW drug to combat incontinence has been labelled a “game changer”, but for some sufferers the price is too much to pay. Approximately 6.3 million Australians experience bladder or bowel control problems. A report released in 2011 by Deloitte Access Economics revealed that in 2010, total health system expenditure on incontinence in the Australian population was estimated at $271 million or $57 per person with incontinence. This figure was projected to rise to $450 million by 2020. But one 76-year-old Queensland woman believes she will not be

included in those statistics after being prescribed the incontinence drug Betmiga. In an email to Seniors News, she wrote: “I have been battling incontinence for the past 10 years (as do so many of my friends). I have been down the road of physio, surgery and as a last-ditch effort I saw another urologist who after tests prescribed Betmiga (25mg). “It has made an enormous difference to my life, all but preventing the symptoms, but unfortunately the cost of each prescription is quite prohibitive. It started out this year at $48 per prescription but after

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August the cost leapt to $64.95. Who knows what the future cost will be. “I realise that the PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme) is always under strain, but with our ageing population and the government spending so much money on keeping we oldies in our own home (all good), surely instead of making people use padded pants or diapers, both expensive and they end up in landfill, to subsidise Betmiga is in the government’s interest as it truly works and as my urologist assured me has the fewest side-effects of comparable drugs.” Spokesperson for the Urological Society of Australian and New Zealand Urologist Dr Caroline Dowling, has praised the efficacy of Betmiga (also known as Mirabegron). “It’s a game changer,” Dr Dowling said. However, she warned there were several causes behind incontinence and it would not suit everyone. “But it definitely works for some,” she said. She advised the first step in finding an appropriate treatment entailed acknowledging the condition to your GP. “Have the cause diagnosed and from there ascertain suitable treatments,” she said. Still, while medicos and patients are on side, it

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FAST FACTS Increased funding for Continence Aids Payment Scheme The Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS) is an Australian Government scheme that provides a payment to assist eligible people who have permanent and severe incontinence to meet some of the cost of their continence products. In July 2018, the Continence Aids Payment Scheme contribution amount was increased in line with the Consumer Price Index. The current payment is $596.60 for the financial year 2018-2019. Clients can choose one full payment in July, or two half payments in July and January each year. ❚ If you would like a CAPS application form, phone the National Continence Helpline on 1800 330 066. You can also request the CAPS application form from the Australian Government’s Bladder Bowel website. ❚ If you require assistance in completing the CAPS application, phone the National Continence Helpline on 1800 330 066. ❚ If you have changed your bank or address details, notify the CAPS Team on 1800 239 309. Only the person receiving the benefit, or their nominated representative, can call the CAPS Team to change/update details. appears, that for many the medication requires PBS (government drug funding) listing before it is financially accessible to a majority of people Betmiga is manufactured by the Astellas company, which has said it has thoroughly investigated requesting PBS reimbursement. However, it found that: “After reviewing the body

of clinical, epidemiological and economic data, they were uncertain that the value offered by the unique mechanism of action and different tolerability profile of the Betmiga can be accurately captured and quantified”. “Furthermore, one of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee’s key criteria for reimbursement is

affordability in the absence of PBS subsidisation. While Astellas acknowledge the difficulty some patients face in affording Betmiga as a private prescription, at its current price Astellas believes it is unlikely to meet this criterion.” Finally, the company said it did not believe it would succeed in gaining PBS status.

Comedy fest coming of age BRISBANE Comedy Festival hits double digits in 2019 and – like any impatient 10-year-old – has already ripped off the wrapping paper to reveal a bumper four-week program. Audiences will be treated to a slew of top international entertainers, some of Australia’s favourite acts, a bevy of Brisbane talent and emerging superstars with 75 acts across Brisbane Powerhouse, Brisbane City Hall and SunPAC from February 22 to March 24, 2019. The festival isn’t the only 10-year-old lining up for a laugh with the introduction of a family program celebrating class clowns, fart jokes

and a snot-load of fun across five shows sure to tickle the funny bones of children and adults alike. The merry month kicks off with the Brisbane Comedy Festival Opening Gala, hosted by Charlie Pickering in his only festival performance. A veritable United Nations of entertainers will jet into Brisbane across the four-week festival including English comedians Ross Noble, Jeff Green and Rod Kemp; Scotsmen Danny Bhoy, Daniel Sloss and Larry Dean; Canadian DeAnne Smith; New Zealander Paul Williams; and Venezuelan Ivan Aristeguieta. Aussie exports Ronny Chieng

and Felicity Ward, now based in the US and UK respectively, are flying back for Brisbane Comedy Festival 2019 with national treasures and hometown heroes including Dave Hughes, Tom Ballard, Tim Ferguson, Nazeem Hussain, Lawrence Mooney, Mel Buttle, Damien Power and Becky Lucas also sharpening their razor wit for audiences. Brisbane Comedy Festival 2019 runs from February 22 to March 24. Venue: Brisbane Powerhouse, Brisbane City Hall and SunPAC. Phone 07 3358 8600 or go to brisbanecomedy festival.com.au.

SENIORS \\MARCH, 2019

Laguna Estate - a lifestyle choice

NEWS

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. You could soon be making the best choice of your life! 6184687ab

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NEWS

MARCH, 2019// SENIORS

New dating app Gail Forrer HI THERE solo senior readers: There’s a new pathway to courtship opening this week in Australia. The name is Lumen and the hope is that it will illuminate the way to a fine date. Co-founder Charly Lester said this was the first ever dating app specifically targeting over 50s. Yes, you might have been on RSVP, eharmony or Tinder, but so have many other age groups. But this is the first app that won’t even let you register if you’re under 50. Charly (The Guardian’s publication dating expert for six years), said there was a lot of research completed before developing the intricacies of this singular app. “When we talked to women they said one of the problems was that a lot of men wanted to date younger women in their 40s and 30s.” Lumen has responded to this research by ensuring anyone who registers on the site is

over the age of 50. This means those seeking a younger age group will have to go elsewhere. The other concern was safety. How do you stop the scammers pretending to be someone they’re not? Lumen has supplied a solution to this worry by requesting a selfie being taken on each on-site visit and installing a mechanism that matches the photo up with other online photos. “With 100 per cent of user profiles verified to prevent fake users, an emphasis on quality conversations and zero tolerance for age discrimination, the app has already attracted over 300,000 worldwide looking for love or companionship since launching in the UK in September 2018,” Charly said. “There are existing senior dating sites, we believe they are dull and don’t represent the average 50-plus dater that you or I know. “When you consider Jennifer Aniston, model Helena Christensen and Keanu Reeves, who are all

‘‘

Those seeking a younger age group will have to go elsewhere 50 plus, it’s clear that today’s 50-year-olds are vibrant, relevant and shouldn’t be classed as old.” She said Lumen believes over 50s are often portrayed as far older and less tech-savvy in media and advertising. “Lumen was born from the need to dispel these stigmas.” After a soft launch in Australia three months ago, there are already more than 20,000 single Aussies looking for love. “Australia is one of our most active countries and we are already seeing quick adoption with a very active and tech savvy user-base,” co-founder and CEO of Lumen Antoine Argouges said. “Australians are

TAILOR MADE: Lumen hopes to illuminate the way to a fine date with the first ever dating app specifically targeting over 50s. demonstrating a growing appetite for a platform that listens to their specific needs and provides a safe, respectful space to find love.”

HOW IT WORKS

The app is free to join and use, and each member can start six new conversations a day with other users. This feature is designed to prevent spamming and to encourage users to

take time and think about who they contact and what they say. Once a message is sent, the recipient has 72 hours to reply to the message, and then it disappears from their inbox. There is a minimum character length for ‘ice breaker’ messages on the platform to encourage meaningful and quality conversations. Profiles are more detailed and every single

profile must contain at least three photos. Lumen Premium offers members optional paid additional features as well, including double the number of daily messages and the ability to extend the amount of time which someone has to reply to your messages. Premium users can also see which other members have listed them as a ‘Favourite’ on the app. Download it today.

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SENIORS \\MARCH, 2019

NEWS

Dementia care Alison Houston A DEMENTIA diagnosis is something no one wants, but it does allow that person, their family and carers to know what they are dealing with and what help is available. Dementia Australia community engagement volunteer Elisabeth Shepherd is speaking from experience when she says there are more services and information available today than ever. “It’s a case of saying ‘this is part of my life now; how can we make this work?’” Elisabeth said. Her mum was diagnosed with dementia aged 73. Elisabeth described coming home from overseas to find her mum completely different from the woman she had known, and her dad having picked up most of the shopping, cooking and other household responsibilities. When her mum did go to the supermarket, she quickly became overcome and anxious due to the noise, lights and sheer

How to cope with dignity and love

number of products. Elisabeth realised it had always been her dad who had written to her overseas, with just a quick note from her mum, or a piece of art enclosed – there had been no suggestion of an issue. Despite a good family GP, her parents were reluctant to talk about her mum’s memory loss and increasing anxiety, believing as many do, “there’s nothing you can do about it, so what’s the point?” She admits her mum struggled when eventually referred to the memory clinic for testing, but when the diagnosis came and they were able to get services in to help, she said it made life easier for both her parents. “Once we got a few services involved, it made dad realise just how much he had been doing and how hard it had been,” she said. “It also gave them both a lot of help with how to make things work day-to-day, and when mum started going to a day

centre each week, she really enjoyed it, and dad realised how important it was for him to have a break too.” Both have since passed away. Elisabeth, with a social work background, said she had noticed in her volunteer work how openly people today talked about dementia, their diagnosis and the help they needed. “Every single person is affected differently, but the benefit of the Dementia Australia carers’ workshops and support groups is you get really good information put forward very clearly and concisely and you are with people who are going through the same thing as you,” she said. “People come out feeling empowered, knowing they are not Robinson Crusoe, and having gained ideas of how other people have dealt with situations similar to their own.” Elisabeth does not underestimate how daunting it is to watch a

loved one change before your eyes. Her father struggled with the loss of his life partner, who was unable to speak long before she died. “But he always said that after being married for 40 years, he knew exactly what she wanted or needed without her saying,” Elisabeth laughed. She said that inside knowledge of what their loved one likes, what makes them laugh is the secret for family and carers successfully making life happy. Her message for those dealing with dementia for themselves or loved ones is “your life can still be meaningful, you can have quality of life and still get joy from listening to music, doing and seeing art, patting a dog... and being together, as we still enjoyed being with mum, her quirkiness and sense of humour”. Topics at the free Dementia Australia Family Carer Course include: effective communication,

MEANINGFUL: Dementia Australia community engagement volunteer Elisabeth Shepherd with a wedding photo of her mum and dad, for whom she was a carer for 15 years, and one of her mum’s last pieces of art. the nature and impact of dementia, activities for living and pleasure, understanding and responding to behaviours and day-to-day strategies. Courses run regionally, 9.30am-2.30pm in Toowoomba on March 26 and May 29, in Warwick

on May 8 and in Dalby on May 20. To book, or find a course near you, phone Dementia Australia on 1800 100 500, email qld.services@dementia. org.au or go to dementia.org.au.

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MARCH, 2019// SENIORS

NOOSA

OUR next monthly meeting will be held on March 21 at Cooroy Memorial Hall, 23 Maple St, Cooroy (third Thursday of each month). Doors open at 5.30pm and with a guest speaker. Entry is a $5 donation for non-members. The meeting begins at 6.30pm and the night is complete with a “bring a plate” shared supper at or after 8.30pm. All welcome.

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.

LOUNDRA FAMILY HISTORY RESEARCH INC.

OUR next general meeting of the year will be held on March 21. Our guest speaker will be one of our regulars Dr Ruth Kerr. She will be sharing her knowledge on mineral discoveries in Queensland, including the Gympie goldrush. Whether you are a beginner or have been researching your descendants for years, there is always something to learn and be amazed by the knowledge of the monthly guest speakers and the various small group outings to local museums and libraries that the group is associated with. Our rooms open Thursdays and Saturday mornings from 9am-12.30pm for people who want to use our resources (library, computers and on-site expert advice). Go to caloundrafamily history.org.au or email us on hello@caloundrafamily history.org.au or phone Cathy Meyer on 0411 881 745.

WOOMBYE FRIENDSHIP DAY

WOOMBYE Bowls Club excelled again recently with our mixed-optional Friendship Day which offers a game of social but competitive bowls with a focus on building friendships across

bowling clubs. Eight winners are drawn out of the hat, so even losers can be winners at this event at Woombye. This year, we had 80 men and lady bowlers from clubs near and far – Caloundra, Maroochy, Headland, Mooloolaba, Mapleton, Palmwoods, Woombye, Pomona, Victoria Point and Caboolture Lakes. Many thanks to our Woombye bowlers, men and ladies, who played (or made themselves available if needed). Phone (07) 5294 5245 for information.

SUNSHINE STATESMEN BARBERSHOP CHORUS

WE ARE conducting our annual free, four-week, Voice coaching program, starting from May 1. The chorus meets every Wednesday at the Buderim Uniting Church Hall at 7.30pm for singing, fun and fellowship in the barbershop style. Led by music director Brian Martin, our 40 members come from all over the Coast and perform regularly at retirement villages, nursing homes, shopping centres (Christmas carols), Choral Fest, Australia Day events and most recently at the Sunshine Coast Regional Council’s Citizenship Ceremony. New members

HEADLANDBUDERIM CROQUET CLUB

CRAFTSMANSHIP: Pictured at the presentation of the Blackall Range Woodcrafters’ Guild sculpture are (left to right) immediate past president John Muller (standing in for president Rob Otto), Chaplain Ann Shepperson and Chaplain Glady Malligan. are welcome. For details, phone Peter Hall on 0477 559 205 or go to sunshinestatesmen. harmonysite.com.

CALOUNDRA BLUE CARE AUXILIARY

WE ARE off again on March 12 on one of our popular coach trips. This time we will be cruising on the Brisbane River on the MV Neptune enjoying the view and a delicious high tea, before we lunch at Broncos and visit Roma St parklands. A super day out for the all inclusive price of $75. Join us for fun, fellowship, food and adventure. For bookings, phone Gloria on (07) 5492 3318. We will be leaving the Blue Care Centre in West Terrace Caloundra at 8am sharp.

COOLUM AND DISTRICT RED CROSS BRANCH

OUR next meeting is on March 13 at 10.15am at Coolum Surf Life Saving Club, Coolum Beach. Come and join us for a coffee and find out what we do. Visitors very welcome. Phone Leonie on 0411 248 505 for more details.

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Buderim ATTENDING our club’s events will help raise funds for educating students of underprivileged families. Our club always has an interesting guest speaker at our monthly meetings, plus there is a social event held on the third Wednesday of the month. Our next lunch/meeting will be held on March 6 and then on April 3 from 11am for a 11.30am start at Buderim Tavern. Cost: $28. RSVP: Pat Cooney on (07) 5445 6329 by previous Sunday. Caloundra Evening WE WERE off to a flying start with 62 ladies attending their Annual Friendship Dinner at the picturesque Pelican Waters Golf Club. Ladies dressed to the theme of ‘Stylish Black and White’ in a variety of eye-catching fashions. Happy chatter filled the evening making it obvious that members were glad to be returning to the company of friends and the club’s activities. New members are made very welcome at our monthly dinners where arrangements are made for our regular morning teas, luncheons and the Sunday breakfasts and walk. If you are a local or new to the area and interested in finding out more, please phone Sue on 0403 504 408. Glasshouse OUR next outing is on the March 6 to the Wildlife Park at The Big Pineapple. We will car pool from Beerwah Library car park at 9.30am and meet at the Big Pineapple car park at 10am BYO morning tea or alternatively there is a cafe for refreshments. Our lunch meeting will be at Glasshouse Sports Club on the March 20 at 11am when we will have a fun and games day. Anyone interested in joining us would be most welcome. Phone Trish on (07) 5493 0026 or Janet

on 0448 845 303. Maroochydore OUR next luncheon will be held on March 22 at the Maroochydore Surf Life Saving Club. Guest speaker is Colin Dunkerley the iPad Man “The Future of Voice”. The cost of the two-course meal is $30. Newcomers are always welcome and if you would like to attend a meeting, phone Sandi on 0429 022 033.

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. Cost is $5, which includes supper. It is a very enjoyable evening as Pat and Norm provide new-vogue as well as old-time dancing. Come and be a spectator and see if you will enjoy it. Everyone is welcome. Phone (07) 5485 2007 for more information or come and visit.

YANDINA COUNTRY MUSIC

COUNTRY Music Concerts at the Hall of Fame, 24 Steggalls Rd, Yandina on the second Saturday (traditional Country) and third Sunday (more upbeat and diverse) of every month 1-5pm. Toe-tapping music with a great band, local artists and a guest artist. Walk-ups welcome. Raffle and door prizes, canteen open, free afternoon tea. Entry $8. Concession $6. Our Country music spans a wide area – audience members and walk-up artists come from as far as Gympie, Noosa, Coolum, Caboolture and from other clubs closer to Brisbane. We are a not-for-profit organisation. Phone Jim on 0437 191 004.

PERMACULTURE

COME and try this unique, year round sport. It’s great fun with gentle exercise for mind and body. At first it may look complicated, yet within a few weeks most people have grasped the basics and can play socially. The games can be fun and easy going with lots of interaction between players, or highly competitive and tactical with great mental stimuli. All welcome. Flat soled shoes required. Mallets provided. Free. Come along, we’d love to see you there on March 24 from 1.30-4pm at the Headland-Buderim Croquet Club, Syd Lingard Dr, Buderim. Phone 0423 534 909.

SINGERS WELCOME

SING with one of these SATB A Cappella choirs in 2019 to have fun, meet new people, and create beautiful music. Choirs have now started singing again. St Andrew’s Singers sing in Tewantin on Monday’s at 10.15am popular songs. St Andrew’s Dr. Air-conditioned. Good Vibrations sing in Cooroy on Monday’s at 7pm. Popular songs. Anglican Church Hall, Miva St, Cooroy. Spiritsong Chamber Choir sing in Tewantin on Wednesdays at 7pm. Mostly classical sacred. Cathedral/Church anthems. Pass an audition, and you can sing no charge for four weeks. Uniting Church Hall, Poinciana Ave/Werin St, Tewantin. New year, new songs. Now is the time to join. Email Andrew, choir director and arranger of songs, andrewjemmet @gmail.com or phone (07) 5474 1498.

NAMBOUR CROQUET CLUB

DO YOU like a challenge? Come along to the Nambour Croquet Club and try to put the croquet ball through the hoop using the mallet from a distance of 2m. Sound easy, it’s not. So come and have a try out. The club meets Tuesday, CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

SENIORS \\MARCH, 2019

COMMUNITY

SUNSHINE SMILES: Buderim VIEW Club’s Adele Leigh thanks the guest speaker Marion Allan, who is the Sunshine Coast program co-ordinator for Learning for Life for The Smith Family charity.

Caloundra Evening VIEW members (from left) Clodagh Barwise-Smith, Linda Warner, May Thomas, Rosemary Loughran, Chris Keates and Di Townsend were excited to be reunited at the VIEW Club’s 2019 Friendship Dinner at Pelican Waters Golf Club.

FROM PAGE 18

sccc.org.au and watch the introductory video or email the club at sccc@internode.on.net.

ST PETER’S ANGLICAN CHURCH

2019 is the Anglican Church’s Year of Generous Hospitality and St Peter’s Church would like to open our hearts and arms wide and welcome you. As well as our Sunday services at 7am and 9am we have a Wednesday service at 9.30am that is great for people who would like to come to church but are time poor or perhaps unwell and would like a shorter service. St Peter’s Rector, Rev. Tania Eichler would like to welcome you to any services or groups and we would welcome you into St Peter’s Cafe, (our Church hall) to join us for a “cuppa”. To find out more about St Peter’s our services and activities, go to anglican maroochydore.org.au. Phone (07) 5443 2133. St Peter’s Anglican Church is on the corner of Church St & Beach Rd, Maroochydore.

LEARN NEW ONLINE SKILLS

FREE digital workshop in the BE CONNECTED series being held at Bloomhill Cancer Care, 58 Ballinger Rd, Buderim. We will be holding our next Digital workshop on March 6 at 10am. New skills and experience are offered at every training

Tait-Duke Community Cottage, Tewantin. Lunch is included. For bookings and inquires email blossomasyou @gmail.com or phone 0436 104 237.

AIR NOOSA

MELANOMA PATIENTS ASSOCIATION

RETIRED or about to retire? Confused about current regulations? Association of Independent Retirees (A.I.R. Limited) Noosa Branch (AIR) is the peak national not-for-profit organisation supporting self-funded retirees or those about to retire. Next meeting March 14 at 10am. Speaker: Professor Deborah Ralston, Chair, Alliance for a Fairer Retirement System. Venue: South Pacific Resort, 179 Weyba Rd, Noosaville. Cost: $6pp members, $10pp non-members includes morning tea. Phone 0411 211 566, email airnoosacommunications @gmail.com or facebook.com/AIRNoosa.

BEGINNERS LINEDANCING

CLASSES are held at the North Shore Community Centre, Mudjimba on Monday evenings 7pm and Wednesdays 9am and at Woombye Hall on Mondays 9am. Keep your mind active and body fit with dance. Fun fitness friendship and great music. Phone Barbara on 0407 733 280.

STRESS LESS WORKSHOP

ARE you finding life stressful at the moment? Come along to the workshop titled Less Stress & More Calm and learn practical ways to deal with these anxious feelings, as well as gain insight on how to bring more peace, joy and resilience into your life on a daily basis. Deb, an accredited Louise Hay Heal Your Life Coach will ensure a friendly and supportive atmosphere. This uplifting event for women is being held on March 23, 10.30am-1.15pm at

THIS is a support group for people who have melanoma. We meet on the third Friday of each month in RSL House, 106 Memorial Dr, Cottontree (next to the RSL parking building). The meeting starts at 10am and the next meeting is on March 15 at 10am. If you have melanoma, we are there to help you. Friends and family are always welcome at our get-togethers. There is no cost so come along, and enjoy a cuppa with a group of friendly, happy people. Phone Christine on 0412 689 546 or go to melanoma patients.org.au.

AGLOW INTERNATIONAL

AGLOW – Sunshine Coast will meet on March 8 at 9.30am at Flame Tree Baptist Church hall, 27 Coes Creek Rd, Burnside. Entry $8 includes morning tea. Come along and enjoy worship and an inspirational message. Come along and bring a friend. Phone Melva on (07) 5443 5752.

SUNSHINE COAST COMPUTER CLUB INC

A NEW technology item or an updated program may be a problem. This is where the Sunshine Coast Computer Club can help. Come as a visitor to a weekly meeting at Buderim or Caloundra and have an introductory chat to our welcoming member and see what goes on at a meeting. Have a cup of tea or coffee with the club’s friendly members as a start to getting to know your computer and technology devices. Phone the club information line on (07) 5492 1005, go to

SUNSHINE COAST REFUGEE ACTION NETWORK

SCRAN is hosting a special screening of Border Politics on March 6 at 5.30pm at the Majestic Cinema, Nambour. Border Politics follows Australian barrister, human rights and refugee advocate, and author Julian Burnside AO QC as he traverses the globe examining refugee policy. This contemporary story is about the threat to human rights, the loss of democratic values and our

increasingly heartless treatment of ‘the other’. Tickets $17 (+$2 booking fee), go to fan-force.com/ screenings.

CALOUNDRA SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB

FOR people over 50 we have a Latin dance class on Tuesdays 2.30pm. Beginners are welcome. Partner not needed. On other days we have tai chi exercises (all standing up) that are easy to do following the teacher. Also an excellent musical show, indoor bowls, bolivia, whist, 500, hoy and mah jong. Annual sub is $10. Entry for members $5 for each activity

(visitors $6). Phone 5438 1403 for details. For a copy of the program with times please email raymoni@ optusnet.com.au the Uniting Church hall, 56C Queen St, Caloundra.

KAWANA SENIORS

WE MEET weekly at the Kawana Library Community Hall every Thursday morning at 9.30am for friendship plus meeting new people. Each week we have an entertainer, play hoy and bingo and indoor bowls plus spin the wheel, lucky door fruit and meat tray raffles and gifts for hoy CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

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Thursday and Saturday from 9am-noon. We are located on the Nambour Connection road adjacent to the Nambour Bowls Club. Mallets and balls are provided, just wear soft soled shoes. Croquet can be played by all age groups, male and female. We have players from 12 to 97 years old. If you have never played we will teach you. Morning tea is provided. We also play mah-jong on Monday mornings from 9am-noon. Cost $4 including morning tea. Once again if you haven’t played before we will teach you. Phone Patrick on (07) 5472 7287 or email berpat@bigpond.com.

session. If you are interested in participating please either email beth@bloomhill.com.au or phone (07) 5445 5794 and speak to Beth to book.

COMMUNITY

MARCH, 2019// SENIORS

TOP TEAM: 2019 committee of the Buderim VIEW Club. FROM PAGE 19 and bingo wins. A full and enjoyable morning is promised. Visitor inquiries may be made through president Selima Taylor on (07) 5452 5979. All visitors are very welcome.

BADMINTON FOR SENIORS

CONDUCTED in the Sunshine Coast Badminton Centre in Nambour every Monday morning from 9-11.30am. Top badminton is a very active sport but the seniors play to their level. Being an indoor sport badminton can be played in any weather. New players are always welcome and racquets are available, fees are low. Not only do the players get some gentle exercise it is an extremely social morning with much

‘chatter’ between games and many friendships made. Anyone wishing to try badminton should call into the hall any Monday morning after 9am, either to play or just check it out. Entrance to the hall is off Coronation Ave and between the Bli Bli traffic lights and the main entrance to the showgrounds. Email lyncave25@hotmail.com or go to badminton@ scba.org.au.

MEDITATION AT COTTON TREE

MINDFULNESS Meditation every Sunday 9.30-11.30am at Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre cnr Fifth Ave & Beach Pde, Cotton Tree (enter through rear door). This meditation is for people with chronic illness, chronic pain, arthritis, cancer, life

Probus Club of Currimundi Combined ladies enjoying lunch. threatening illness and carer issues. Free admittance and no donation. Presented by Barry Farrin 0407 114 761. Barry is university trained and has over 30 years experience conducting mindfulness meditation on the Sunshine Coast. He has experience in palliative care and psychotherapy.

PROBUS CLUBS

Buderim MT WE ARE a mixed club for active retirees which provides friendship, fun and social interaction with interesting speakers and enjoyable outings, dining out, coffee mornings, walks and more. Join us for morning tea and a chat with members. We meet on the second Monday of each month at Buderim Bowls Club, Elizabeth St, Buderim at 9.30am. For

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the Uniting Church, Elizabeth St, Coolum Beach. Visitors are welcome. A guest speaker entertains us each month. Organised lunches, bus or car trips each month. For more information phone 0429 516 788. After the meeting is closed, we meet at the Coolum Beach Hotel for lunch at own expense. Currimundi Combined Inc. WE STARTED our year off with Australia Day Celebrations consisting of a sausage sizzle and damper with lamingtons and watermelon (how Aussie is that). Activities for the day included thong throwing and egg on the plate races. A lot of good fun was had by all. Kawana Waters SIXTEEN years ago a dedicated family on the

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more information, phone Jan on (07) 5345 9786. Caloundra 86 OUR club holds a general meeting on the third Tuesday of the month at 9.30am at Pelican Waters Tavern with other activities throughout the month mainly on Tuesdays are a Walk, Talk and Coffee, lunch at a Sunshine Coast restaurant and a Thursday games afternoon plus a bi-monthly day outing with our first this month. The club would welcome new members to join this friendly group of retired and semi-retired men and women. Phone the membership officer Terry on 0418 749 042. Coolum Beach Combined OUR Club is for retired and semi-retired people looking for friendship and fun. Our next meeting is on March 5 at 9.15am at

We also specialise in major bathroom modiﬁcations, ramps and stairlifts for ease of access. Our aim is to help you continue safely living in your home Funding provided by Federal and State Government. Funding eligibility criteria applies. We are an NDIS registered provider

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SENIORS \\MARCH, 2019

COMMUNITY

FROM PAGE 20

Council. Activities include stamp trading through club exchange books; show & tell; annual stamp fair – attended by regional visiting stamp clubs and is open to the public; annual Christmas party and more. Visitors are welcome to attend any club meeting. Go to suncoaststamps.org.au or contact the club secretary on (07) 5441 2238 or club publicity officer on 0417 720 581.

the many characters who have been patients before winging away restored to full health. So if you are in the area why not drop in for a visit and support this registered charity in the invaluable work they undertake.

CICADA QUEENSLAND

WE HAVE launched our latest publication – Everything you need to know about cochlear implants. The publication will be an invaluable tool for cochlear implant clinics and people interested in an implant. The 42-page booklet takes you through the process in easy-to-read format. The book is the brainchild of Sunshine Coast Rep Cochlear Implant Recipient of the Year Penny Phillips, with help from Josie McMahon and Shirley Edwards. CICADA Queensland is not charging for the booklet but would like a donation towards administration costs plus postage. Contact secretary@cicada qld.com.au for more information. Meet ups for the CICADA Queensland Sunshine Coast group commenced on February 26 at the Sunshine Castle Bli Bli from 10am-noon. All

ALL SORTS: A lovely group of lady bowlers attended the Friendship Day at Woombye Bowls Club.

welcome. Email Penny at pennyphillips1 @bigpond.com or SMS 0421 328 909.

THE BLACKALL RANGE WOODSCRAFTERS GUILD INC.

THE Blackall Range Woodcrafters Guild was among many participants who were on show at the Australia Day celebrations at the Maleny Showgrounds. Apart from the comprehensive display of articles crafted by members, there were also working displays of woodturning, scroll sawing, wood carving and pyrography (pictures etched into wood with a hot iron). A few people expressed an interest in

joining the guild which operates from Monday to Saturday between 8-11.30am. The guild has two large sheds located on the Montville Sports Ground, approximately 3km south of Montville. The guild has a membership in excess of 150 men and women and has a wonderful assortment of hand tools and machinery.

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 March 5 from 10am-noon at the Buderim Uniting Church Hall, cnr Gloucester Rd and King

St, Buderim. The program runs for two hours a week over eight weeks. This is a free Blue Care Program. For registration or more, phone Aurilea Augustine on 0439 768 394 or email aaugustine5 @bigpond.com.

SUNSHINE COAST STAMP CLUB

THE Sunshine Coast Stamp Club meets at 6.30pm for 7pm on the first Wednesday of each month February to November with a Christmas party in December. Meetings are held at the Red Cross Rooms, Price St, Nambour. We are affiliated with and a member of the Queensland Philatelic

MAKE CONNECTIONS

CIYA (Connections In Yandina Area). If you live in the Yandina area or surrounds and are looking to connect with others and enjoy great activities then check out CIYA. Wednesdays come alive with a coffee & chat, art, craft, from 9am, line dancing and movement 6.30-7.30pm and conversational English (for people with English as their second language) 4-5pm. Held on Wednesdays at Connections in Yandina, you can join any activities and chat with new and old friends over tea, coffee and snacks. Connections building, Low St, Yandina. For program and details, go to the website yandinabaptist.org/ciya. Gold coin donation.

FREE 4 SALE

Email your ‘Free 4 sale’ classified to advertising@seniors newspaper.com.au – the max price of your item to sell is $500. Max 20 words. GARDEN/PATIO /INDOOR VINTAGE CHAIRS x 2. Square design with oval earth coloured mosaic on back and the another inspired by French Cafe settings, wrought iron, matt charcoal finish. Ex cond. Neg. $80. PH 0419 737 461. Noosa Heads. HAIER TOP LOADER WASHING MACHINE, 18 months old, very good condition and user manual. $250. PH 0408 708 655. Tewantin. REVITIVE CIRCUALTION BOOSTER ex cond, hardly used. $50. PH 0410 160 502. Sippy Downs. TAYLOR VECTOR BOWLS size 3, bag and trolley, jacket white. Shoes new size 6, cap. $100 for the lot or sell separately. PH 07 5438 8430. Kawana.

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MARCH, 2019// SENIORS future events, go to sccb.org.au.

What's on

RAG RUG MINI-EXPO

FESTIVAL RESCHEDULED

ORGANISERS of the MUNCH Festival at The Imperial Hotel & Eumundi Brewery have rescheduled the event from February 23 to the new date of March 16. Hotel manager Paul Thomas said the event would be held from 2-8pm outdoors out back at the iconic hinterland Queenslander hotel. Good times are on the line-up for this free entry festival of fab food, cool drinks and tasty tunes – all with that Eumundi groove. From heavenly spring rolls and satay to Mexican tacos, vegan delights to a finger lickin’ barbecue, there’s a global feast to be had at MUNCH. Expect some quality street entertainers too. The Imperial Hotel’s free courtesy bus will be operating on the day from 5pm, travelling to Eumundi, Belli Park, Cooroy, Doonan, Eerwah Vale, North Arm and Verrierdale. Phone Gary on 0467 414 171 to book.

SUNSHINE COAST STAMP FAIR

THE Sunshine Coast Stamp Club is hosting its Annual Stamp Fair at Kawana Community Centre, Nanyima St, Buddina (off Point Cartwright Rd) on March 17. The Stamp Fair will commence at 9am-4pm. In attendance will be SEQLD Stamp Clubs and professional stamp dealers. The president of the Sunshine Coast Stamp Club Jennifer Waldroff, offers an open invitation to all members of the public including children accompanied by adults. Entry is free. There will be dealers, visiting club tables and a

SMOOTH TUNES: The Inter-State Swing Band is a 10-piece band of musicians and singers performing at the Sunshine Coast Jazz Club on March 17 at 1.30pm at the Caloundra Power Boat Club, Golden Beach.

large bargain table, as well as special First Day Covers to commemorate the club’s 35th year. Free appraisals of stamp collections and accumulations. For more, phone Mike on 0438 589 181 or go to suncoaststamps.org.au.

SUNSHINE COAST JAZZ CLUB

COME along on March 17 and enjoy Pete Kelly & The Inter-State Swing Band at the Caloundra Power Boat Club commencing at 1.30pm (new start time). The Inter-State Swing Band is a 10-piece band of musicians and singers living in the Brisbane/Sunshine Coast area that specialise in the music of the Swing genre and also artists such as Frank Sinatra and Michael Buble. Members of the band are drawn from a pool of outstanding musicians that varies from time to time, subject to availability. For further information contact Julie on 0412 789 957 or on 0427 782 960. Members $20, seniors $22.50 and non members $25 or email suncoastjazz2

@gmail.com. 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.

BUNKER DOWN SPEAK OUT!

IN MARCH, Bunker Down - Speak Out! will offer interested, emerging and established spoken word performers a chance to attend a Spoken Word Workshop delivered by Joelle Taylor at the basement space of the Suncentral building at 6pm on March 6. Secondly, Joelle will perform live on stage alongside local voices at the Spoken Word Open Mic event at Solbar. Locals are encouraged to register online for the open mic and audiences can buy pre-sale tickets for $15 (+BF), $20 on the door. March 6 at 6-8pm Spoken word workshop with Joelle Taylor, Suncentral Building Downstairs, 9 Golf St, Maroochydore. Tickets:

GA $45+BF, Conc $35+BF. Thursday, March 7 at 7pm Joelle Taylor LIVE and Spoken Word Open Mic, Solbar Playhouse, 12-20 Ocean St, Maroochydore. Tickets: $15+BF pre-sale, $20 on the door/free for open mic performers. For all workshop and feature event tickets, open mic registrations and event info, go to horizonfestival.com.au /thebunker.

ART IN THE PADDOCK

CALLING all artists – In conjunction with the Pomona Music Festival weekend the popular, Art Market in the Paddock will be held in the grounds of the Pomona Art Gallery on April 27 from 9am-1pm. We are accepting artist registrations from those interested in holding a stall. For more, go to the Gallery website pomonartgallery.com or phone the market co-ordinator on 0407 119 858.

SYMPHONY BY THE SEA

PERFORMED by The Sunshine Coast

Symphony Orchestra on May 11 from 2-4.30pm at the Coolum Civic Centre, Park St, Coolum Beach. Afternoon tea provided. It is the Saturday of the Mother’s Day weekend. Tickets: On sale from April 1. Advance tickets: $24 general, $22 concession. At the door: $26 general, $24 concession. Children under 12: free. Purchase online, go to development watch.org.au. For information contact: Tony (treasurer) 0417 001 590, Rosemary (secretary) 0448 102 288, email secretary.development watch@gmail.com.

THE SUNSHINE COAST CONCERT BAND

SET to perform in the Kawana Community Hall, Nanyima St, Buddina on March 16 at 2pm. Come along and enjoy Merry Melodies in March. Invite your friends to an afternoon of top entertainment with a great variety of music and talented vocalists. Tickets $15 available at the door includes afternoon tea. All inquiries contact Toni on 0404 193 912. For

ON MARCH 9 from 9am-2pm, the Pomona Community House in collaboration with members of the Australian Rugmakers Guild and Sunshine Coast Rug Crafters and Fibre Art group will present a RAG RUG mini-EXPO in Pomona. Come and see a variety of techniques and tools used in rag rug making, with demonstrations and samples of each style. This is a great opportunity to learn about and try traditional rug hooking (rag rug making); locker hooking; Naalbinding/toothbrush rug making; crochet and braided rugs; French knitting and other ways to use and incorporate fibre and textiles into your craft and fibre art projects. Follow-up workshops will be offered based on interest shown on the day. These will be held on Thursday afternoons for up to four weeks following the mini-EXPO. Venue: Lawson Shed, ,1 Memorial Ave. Entrance fee: $5. Tea, coffee and cake available. Phone 07 5485 2427.

MUSICAL PAWS

IN SUPPORT of Guide Dogs Queensland, the Sunshine Coast Concert Band will be performing in the Kawana Community Hall Nanyima St, Buddina on Saturday, April 6 at 2pm under the direction of Ken Chadwick OAM. An afternoon of top entertainment with a great variety of music and talented vocalists. $15 per person - pre-booking special and $17 at the door. This includes afternoon tea. To pre-purchase your ticket, phone 07 5352 7800 or email: sunshine@ guidedogsqld.com.au. All profits go to Guide Dogs Qld.

Williamson premieres play in Noosa

Playwright David Williamson.

IN A WORLD obsessed with social media, selfies and celebrity, David Williamson’s new comedy play The Big Time will have its Queensland premiere as part of a four performance only season at The J Noosa. Presented by NOOSA alive! festival in association with Sydney’s Ensemble Theatre company, The Big Time cast includes Claudia Barrie, Zoe Carides, Aileen Huyn, Matt Minto and Jeremy Waters and is directed by Mark Kilmurry. The play follows the

story of Celia and Vicki, two women who were best friends at drama school. Celia is a high profile soap star earning ridiculous amounts of money and enjoying a celebrity lifestyle. Vicki is scraping by playing gritty, critically acclaimed roles in independent theatre. When Vicki proposes they collaborate on an ambitious new film project, it could be a big opportunity for both to prove their mettle in the industry, but are Vicki’s motives as

well-intentioned as they seem, or will jealousy rear its ugly head? As the most produced playwright in the history of Australian theatre, David Williamson is renowned for tapping into the social pulse of the time. The Big Time is no exception with Williamson’s trademark satirical pen finding razor-sharp form in this clever, stylish and sophisticated comedy. “The Big Time has at its core loneliness, desperation, jealousy, ambition, betrayal while

creating a world of likable characters that make us laugh” Kilmurry said. “The Big Time questions the price of fame, ambition, friendship and what it takes to be true to yourself.” The Big Time by David Williamson is on at the J Theatre, Noosa, March 21-23, at 7.30pm, plus a matinee session on March 23 at 2pm. The play goes for two hours with intermission. Tickets are $60-$65. To book tickets, go to noosaalive.com.au.

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

The Emerald Isle When Irish eyes are smiling, you’ll fall in love PAGES 28-29

TRAVEL CLUB 2019

ESTABLISHED 1982 Coastal Variety y Tours p/L

CAIRNS & TROPICAL NORTH QLD

CANBERRA FLORIADE FESTIVAL

2,350

(inc.GST)

2,299 Hunter Valley Gardens - Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers - Blue Mountains - Jenolan Caves - Warrumbungle National Park (inc.GST) 10 Days - Friday 20th - Sunday 29th September 2019 $2,299 Fare Includes: Motel Accommodation, All Hot Breakfasts and Dinners. *Home pickups & Returns, All Admissions, Hunter Valley Gardens and Train Ride, Winery Tour & Tasting, Cockington Green, Tulip Top Gardens, lake Burley Grifﬁn Cruise, Canberra Attractions, Blue Mountain Katoomba, Jenolan Caves, Lithgow, Warrumbungle National Park, Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers. Home Pickup & Return: Sunshine Coast, Caboolture, Redcliffe, Brisbane Suburbs, Redlands, Ipswich, Gold Coast, Tweed Heads.

Please Phone Coastal Variety Tours 3343 6722 for Free Tour Brochure

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WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS, PORT DOUGLAS, KURANDA, DAINTREE, MAGNETIC ISLAND 13 Days 14th - 26th July 2019 $2,350 includes: Motels - Breakfasts & Dinners. Admissions: Sky Rail or Travel Train to Kuranda, Daintree Rainforest River Cruise, Port Douglas Tour, Boat Cruise - Two Island Cruise (Hamilton and Daydream Island), Townsville Tour, Magnetic Island, Paronella Park, Mackay, Rockhampton, Airlie Beach, Gladstone. Home Pickup p & Return: Sunshine Coast,, Caboolture,, Brisbane area,, Redcliffe,, Redlands,, Ipswich, p , Gold Coast.

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Travelling solo, not single Tracey Johnstone

SINGULAR IMPORTANCE: Encounter Travel’s Norway solo traveller group celebrate Cape Nord and the Midnight Sun experiences. INSET: Justine Waddington. many of whom are aged 60 and over. Each tour is a small group with soft adventure experiences high on the agenda. The alternative type is the “flop and drop” tour to resorts which includes both group activities and

For copies of The Solo Traveller’s Compass which costs $29 including postage, go to justinewaddington.com. For more details on solo bookings, take a look at encountertravel.com.au.

FIVE STAR COACH TRAVEL

TOURS & SHORT ESCAPES ESCAPES S

C O

2019 2019

about which kind of trip you want to join.” The book also covers sharing; would you make a good room sharer and what to consider before committing to sharing. Justine’s travel agency caters for solo travellers

E S

traveller so you feel like you are going to be joining one that is more suited to you. “It talks about choosing the right tour and about what to look for when you are flicking through brochures and thinking

consider barriers to starting a new adventure. “The book is set around, you don’t have to be alone when you travel solo,” Justine said. “It talks about joining groups and how to choose the right group as a solo

time to chill out individually. For all tours, rooms can be shared or booked for solo occupation. During the year Justine also organises traveller events in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast and Melbourne where tour guests reunite and where first-timer guests can meet other solo travellers and learn more about what it is like to head off alone in company. “Our travellers come from all over Australia,” Justine said.

TRAVELLING solo or travelling single – there is a difference. Dropping the reference to marital status and looking at yourself as a solo adventurer can help you get on the road. But where do you start? Encounter Travel’s Justine Waddington has put together a guide book, The Solo Traveller’s Compass, for anyone wanting to set off on solo travel experiences. It has over 200 practical tips. “It’s suited to someone who is a first-time solo traveller or maybe hasn’t travelled for a long time on their own and wants a bit of refresher of things to keep in mind when you are travelling solo,” Justine said. “And before you travel, what you need to prepare for.” The book is split into three sections – getting started, before you go and on your trip. Justine talks about what is stopping people from doing solo travel and how you can unblock those things that they

A C O

WHY WOULD YOU GO OVERSEAS WHEN THERE’S SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO ACROSS THIS VAST AMAZING COUNTRY?

Images courtesy of Tourism & Events Queensland and Tourism Australia.

For your next unforgettable getaway join one of our Australian coach tours that offer locals and overseas visitors alike extraordinary experiences from warm sandy beaches and blue skies to scorched red earth and beautiful outback landscapes. Travel with us to experience the best this rugged and vast country has to offer at an affordable price.

March 25th - 30th

Easter: April 17th - 23rd

May 13th - 16th

May 23rd - June 6th

June 8th - 17th

June 24th - 27th

BUNDABERG, LADY MUSGRAVE & FRASER IS. - 6 DAY ESCAPE

AUTUMN – EASTER ON THE TABLELANDS - 7 DAY ESCAPE

TOOWOOMBA & SOUTHERN DOWNS - 4 DAY ESCAPE

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN RANGES DISCOVERY - 15 DAY TOUR

KANGAROO ISLAND & BAROSSA - 10 DAY TOUR

O’REILLYS RAINFOREST RETREAT - 4 DAY ESCAPE

Share/Double

$1885.00

Share/Double

$1977.00

Share/Double

$1142.00

Share/Double

$4674.00

Share/Double

$3510.00

Share/Double

$1185.00

July 14th - 20th

July 29th - August 10th

August 17th - 29th

September 9th - 14th

September 20th - 23rd

Sept 25th - October 3rd

LIGHTNING RIDGE 7 DAY ESCAPE

OUTBACK TO COAST - QLD 13 DAY TOUR

NTH QLD SAVANNAH WAY 13 DAY TOUR

CARNARVON GORGE 6 DAY ESCAPE

TOOWOOMBA CARNIVAL OF FLOWERS - 4 DAY ESCAPE

CANBERRA FLORIADE 9 DAY TOUR

Share/Double

$1819.00

Twin Share/Double

$4752.00

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL TOUR - INFO TO BE ANNOUCED

TO BOOK, PHONE (07) 5351 1165

Twin Share/Double

$4966.00

Twin Share/Double

$1476.00

Share/Double

$990.00

Share/Double

$2625.00

For more information on these and other tours, please visit: www.coolumcoaches.com.au Email: tours@coolumcoaches.com.au to join our travel club for up to date listings of our tours.

www.coolumcoaches.com.au/tours

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

TRAVEL BRIEFS

6897840ae

ng Of feri rs Senio or nts f Discou ravel il T QR Ra rs Tou

VOTED NO1 BEST VALUE SeniorS Tour Company

REAL DEALS: The Cruise and Maritime Voyages ship, Columbus.

LAST MINUTE ESCAPES

Cruise and Maritime Voyages is offering guests up to 75 per cent off a range of last-minute escapes departing this March and April. The offer gives travellers the chance to experience Western Australia’s epic coastlines, the world-class local produce of South Australia, the wild splendour of Tasmania and iconic landmarks of New Zealand and the East Coast of Australia. A little further afield, guests can experience the best of Asia on both short and long voyages, some departing from Sydney and Auckland. For more details, go to CMVAustralia.com or phone 1300 307 934.

HIGH COUNTRY WALKS

Victoria’s High Country has launched a website – walkhighcountry.com.au – which showcases more than 100 walks around the spectacular region. From short village strolls to multi-day mountain hikes for the more adventurous, Walk High Country is a one-stop place for visitors looking to explore the unique beauty of Victoria’s North East the slow way. Guide yourself or choose from a suite of new guided walk experiences around the region.

GET ENLIGHTEN(ED) IN CANBERRA

The nation’s capital will be transformed in March for the annual Enlighten Festival. Over 17 days the city will host free and ticketed events celebrating culture and creativity. ❚ Enlighten Illuminations, March 1-11 The Parliamentary Triangle and city precinct come to life after dark with large-scale projections on some of the capital’s most loved and iconic buildings. Visit the food offerings at Enlighten Alley, enjoy roving entertainers, art installations, live music and enchanting performances or try new tastes at the Canberra Night Noodle Markets in

Reconciliation Place. ❚ Canberra Balloon Spectacular, March 9-17 View hot air balloons floating across the city during the Canberra Balloon Spectacular. The Canberra skyline will be full of hot air balloons from across the globe. ❚ Canberra Day, March 11 Canberra turns 106 this year. Join in the celebrations with a program bursting to the seams with live music and entertainment for all. There’s something for everyone this Canberra Day. For more festival information, to to www. enlightencanberra.com.

EXPERIENCE SUNSHINE COAST OUTDOORS

❚ Paddle powered by sun Go solar-powered on your canoe tour. Eco River Rides are harnessing the sun to help you fuel your adventure. In an Australian first, the company is using solar-powered canoes to take visitors on an unforgettable journey through the Maroochy River Wetlands. For more details, go to www.eco riverrides.com.au. ❚ Pedal green EcoTekk Electric Bikes offers Sunshine Coast visitors a chance to explore the region without working up a sweat. With no shortage of tracks to choose from, it’s a great way to discover the Sunshine Coast. E-Bike comes to you, at your resort, your hotel, your house or friend’s house. For more details, go www.ecotekk.com.au/ home/sunshine-coast.

NEW QUEENSLAND FOOD FESTIVAL

It’s new and it’s on August 8-11 on the Sunshine Coast, The Curated Plate. The festival aims to feature chefs from Australia and the world. Guests will get to immerse themselves in the flavours foraged from organic and sustainable practices and enjoy once-in-a-lifetime dining experiences. The Curated Plate program will burst with exclusive culinary events that will span the region,

bringing to life the unique local artisan culture. Pre-sale tickets are available from March 12. For more details, go to hecuratedplate.com.au/ sunshine-coast.

MONGOLIA BY MOTORBIKE

Save 10 per cent on a ride across one of the world’s most remote places – Mongolia, the world’s emptiest country. Experience the vast expanse of Mongolia’s striking landscapes on the back of a classic Royal Enfield motorbike on some of the world’s most open roads with this special offer from Extreme Bike Tours. Extreme Bike Tours’ 11-day Mongolian Adventure tour starts in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar, home to almost half of Mongolia’s total population. The tour gives thrillseekers the opportunity to open throttle on the open roads and rarely visited, vast countryside of Mongolia, the world’s emptiest country, on the back of a 500cc Royal Enfield Bullet. The 11-day guided Mongolian tour begins in Ulaanbaatar on August 2, 2019. Extreme Bike Tours is one of the world’s leading motorcycle tour companies, offering tours in the Himalayas, Bhutan, Mongolia, Madagascar, India, Sri Lanka and Cuba. For more information, visit the website extremebiketours.com/ package/mongolia-tour.

TAHITI WHALE SWIM CRUISES

New week-long whale swim cruises have been launched in Tahiti by Australian eco-experience company, Majestic Whales Encounters. The unique cruises will see guests spend six nights aboard a brand new 16m catamaran as they sail the turquoise waters off the island of Moorea and swim with wild humpback whales. The cruise departs on September 16 or 22, 2019. Phone Majestic Whale Encounters on 0405 594 253 or visit the website majesticwhale encounters.com.au.

EdINBURGH MIlITARY TATTOO, SYdNEY 2019 / INclUdING THE BlUE MOUNTAINS The acclaimed spectacular, the *Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, *will return to Sydney at ANZ Stadium in October 2019. One of the greatest shows on earth at ANZ Stadium in October, will featuring more than 1200 performers from around the world. The Sydney show, which is set against the backdrop of a full-size replica of Edinburgh Castle, will blend a thrilling mix of music, ceremony, military tradition, theatre and dance from the world’s best-massed pipes and drums. Combined with a 2 night visit to the Blue Mountains including Jenolan Caves, this tour will be a highlight for 2019!!! 5 Days, Departing 14th Oct, including return ﬂights to Sydney $2395pp T/S, Single add $450 Save $100pp when booking a September Departure.

cOOkTOwN

Save $100pp when booking an October Departures

ExpERIENcE lONGREAcH & wINTON

Cooktown is known for is its well documented Longreach is in the geographical heart of history after Captain Cook ran aground. Queensland. There are some fascinating Later it became a bustling port, exporting gold things to see and do in this part of the world. and had 47 licensed pubs So, step back in time and enjoy the living history paying homage to an Winton has a rich history as the birthplace of Waltzing Matilda and links to the Great era of great hardship. 8 Days from $1490* Plus Pension Rail Fare when travelling by QR Rail* Shearers’ Strike of 1891. 7 Days from $1,340

cOwBOYS / cAvES

This unique tour visits Cowboys at Texas Longhorn Ranch, Historical Charters Towers, Caves at the incredible Undara Lava Tubes and Castle Ruins of Paronella Park. 8 Days from $1390* Plus Pension Rail Fare when travelling by QR Rail*

UlURU – FIEld OF lIGHTS

Welcome to our special Uluru and Alice Springs tour. The Field of Light is a global phenomenon created by internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Munro which comes to life under a sky brilliant with stars. 7 Days from $3690. *Free Flights

Save $100pp when booking before the end of March

GUlFlANdER AdvENTURE

The Gulﬂander is an Australian passenger train operated by Queensland Rail on the isolated Normanton to Croydon line in the Gulf Country of northern Queensland. 10 Days from $2,490

*To the value of $320

TOTAl TASMANIA

Come and enjoy Tasmania, “the Island of Inspiration” is an island of dramatic coastlines, quaint villages, convict-built heritage and magniﬁcent food and wine. 11 Days, $3,490. Departure Dates: 26th October 2019

MUTINY ON THE BOUNTY / HISTORY ON THE HIGH SEAS

Our timing could not be more perfect for this cruise as we will experience warm days around the 28-30deg and kind spring seas. Highlights of this cruise include visiting the locations where Mutiny on the Bounty took place in 1789. You’ll travel past Nomuka Island where Blight visited the day before the Mutiny occurs. You will also cruise past Tofua Island where Bligh and his loyalists landed. Plus Norfolk Is were the mutineers ended up. 18 Days Departing 16th October from $3,450

Discover our great deals & destinations visit www.greatvalueholidays.com.au or phone 1300 722 661 Terms and conditions apply: See website for details.

Our Industry Partner

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

‘‘

I have always enjoyed the company of the Irish, easily warming to their humour and yarns.

PALACIAL GLORY: There are many and varied castles to see or perhaps stay in Ireland, pictured here is Ireland Castle.

Ireland... it’s just like Peter Chapman

From the amazing views to the wonderful people, the impression you get from the flicks is even better in real life

IT MIGHT seem a little strange, but my decision to do a self-drive tour of Ireland was inspired from watching movies centred on the shamrock isle. They always revealed beautiful scenery, picturesque boutique hotels and friendly Irish pubs. As I watched I envisaged myself joining in on a song or two while downing a pint of Guinness at McMurphy’s corner pub. Adding to my views of Ireland was the fact that I have always enjoyed the company of the Irish, easily warming to their humour and yarns. The chance to make the trip finally came up via a decision to book a 14-day Baltic Sea cruise out of Southampton. The wife rightly said we can’t go all the way to England and just jump on a cruise ship, we need to combine something with it. So the decision was made that we’d spend a week touring Ireland and

we’d hire a small car for the trek. Now if you know nothing about Ireland – and to tell the absolute truth I didn’t – it’s best not to just look at a map and say to yourself it doesn’t look that far from town to town. At first the idea was to stay in Dublin for a few nights then head north taking in the likes of Glasgow, the Giant’s Causeway and then slide down the coast coming across through Kilkenny and back to where we started. All this was planned for just seven days. Fortunately sanity prevailed and instead we decided to only concentrate on the southern parts of Ireland. We didn’t want to just drive around looking out the car window. After arriving at Dublin Airport we picked up our hire car and headed towards our accommodation in the city. Mistake one was that we didn’t choose a car with a GPS instead deciding to wait a few days and get a SIM for the

phone to use as our guidance system. That decision cost us a frustrating three hours as we circled Dublin’s maze of one way streets searching for our hotel. I don’t like admitting it, but it was my decision not to go with the car GPS, a fact I was reminded of more than a few times during the trip. We stayed at the Dawson Hotel and Spa in Dawson Street which we found a convenient location from which to walk around the city. The room was small, but clean and the only issue was that we were on the second floor and there was no lift, just a strong doorman to carry your bags upstairs. A TripAdvisor tip to take the free walking tour in Dublin proved a winner the next day. A young university student with a wonderful knowledge of the city was our guide and for almost four hours he told us some fascinating stories about the history of the city. To go on the tour all you need to do is to turn up at

Dublin Town Square before noon and join a group. The guides make their money from tips and there were plenty who reached into their pockets at the end of the walk. My mother taught me the famous Irish song In Dublin’s Fair City when I was just five years old and I have been bringing it out as part of my entertainment repertoire ever since. Mind you, it’s a very small and limited repertoire. So I was delighted to see our final stop on the walking tour was in front of the Molly Malone statue. Of course as any Aussie knows you never let a chance go by, so I launched into the song and to my pleasant surprise had the entire street singing along with me. I loved it and even the wife joined in for the chorus. There are plenty of bars and restaurants in Dublin, ranging from Michelin Star credentialed to the cheap bistros at the many local

pubs. We found Marco Pierre White’s Steakhouse and Grill just down the road from our hotel and enjoyed a special night out. Unfortunately the budget didn’t allow us to return, but if you spoil yourself every night it doesn’t seem so special when you do. Day one on the road took us across Ireland to the seaport of Doolin. We booked in at a recently built B&B, Egan’s Wild Atlantic View. The host, who happened to be the Ireland Fly Fishing Champion, was great, the room was first class and the breakfast made to perfection. It’s a big recommendation from us. We chose Doolin because from there it’s a short drive to one of Ireland’s premier tourist spots, the Cliffs of Moher. It was a windy day on the cliffs, but worth the climb for a spectacular view. From Doolin we wound our way through to Killarney were again we

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

Bunratty Castle.

Bunratty House.

Doolin.

Dawson.

Muckross House.

the movies, but better

picked our accommodation well with a stay at Muckross Park Hotel. It sits opposite the national park and in the morning we grabbed a free bike from the hotel and went for a pleasant slow two-hour cycle. The only dampener on this stop was the pub food next to the hotel was a meal we should have missed. Stay at the hotel by all means, but find a good restaurant in town to dine out at is our advice. My wife had one wish for our Ireland tour, and that was to stay one night in a castle. That’s why we booked our next stop at the Waterford Castle. Unfortunately the castle has only a few rooms and we were shovelled off to a block of units on the estate. The unit was good, but it wasn’t a castle. As a keen punter I found a steeple chase meeting at Wexford to call in before we said goodbye to Ireland. Fortunately the luck of the Irish prevailed and a

10/1 winner helped pay for all our petrol and a few pints of Guinness. To sum it up, the few disappointments we had on our whistle stop self-drive tour were overshadowed by many highlights and if we had our time over again we’d do the same, except this time we’d find a real castle to stay in, ghosts and all.

IRELAND

APPROX COSTS: Self-drive car hire: $350, five days Dawson Hotel Dublin: $250 per night Rating: 7/10 Egan’s Wild Atlantic B&B, Doolin: $150 per night Rating: 9/10 Muckross Park Hotel, Killarney: $350 per night Rating: 8/10 Waterford Castle: $400 per night Rating: 7/10 BEST TIP: Take your time while driving around and go online early to book your accommodation and you will save hundreds by doing it.

Cliffs of Moher, Ireland.

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Fishing South Coast NSW ‘‘ Each season provides a fresh and wide range of options

Nige Webster

ONE OF the most picturesque areas I have travelled and fished is the south coast of New South Wales. The stretch of coast I fell in love with many years ago, includes that between Bateman’s Bay and Mallacoota. You’ll travel through townships such as Moruya, Broulee, Tuross, Merimbula, Narooma and more. I love the climate here and the huge range of fishing options that are available. The estuaries are great places to target bread and butter species such as bream, flathead, whiting, luderick and tailor. The deeper waters of these estuaries often produce some really big flathead and mulloway. Waters such as those found at Mallacoota on the border are renowned for having massive flathead. Light to medium weight

spin rods and reels with six to 20lb breaking strain lines should be packed when travelling here. Jigging soft plastics on the bottom, ‘walking’ small surface lures on the top, high speed spinning with small metal lures or jigging vibe style plastics and metals are all great ways of enticing the estuary species you will encounter along the way. The rock and beach fishing along this coastline is very good. Safety must always be the foremost consideration when fishing these areas. The sand and stones will provide fishing for the likes of salmon, tailor, trevally, luderick, rock blackfish and snapper. Surf rods and threadline and Alvey reels are perfect for these waters. Twenty to 40lb monofilament fishing line with suitable weights (or floats) and baits of gang-rigged pilchards, mullet, abalone, prawns, cunjevoi and weed will

Merimbula Beach at sunset, Merimbula.

The estuaries are great places to target bread and butter species

ALL SEASONS: Fishing near the Princes Highway bridge at Bateman’s Bay, South Coast.

Photo: James Pipino, Destination NSW

have you in with a good chance of a fish. Accommodation is plentiful along this route, with caravan parks,

Photo: Dee Kramer Photography

motels and B&B stays everywhere. The area is a year round fishing option, but I just love winter and spring in

these parts and the fishing options these seasons provide. ❚ Nige Webster works for AFN Fishing &

Outdoors and presents and produces The Fishing Show on channel 7Mate. Facebook: AFN The Fishing Show.

Quiet moment of early fishing at Glasshouse Rocks, Narooma.

Freecall: 1800 072 535 DOWN UNDER COACH TOURS Ph: 07 4123 1733

5 DAY EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO SYDNEY - Tour 2 Departs: 16/10/19

Don’t miss one of the greatest shows on earth, featuring more than 1200 performers from around the world. • 2 Nights Sydney • Edinburgh Military Tattoo Premium Seats & Britannia Dinner • World Heritage Parramatta Park • Rumsey Rose Gardens • Free Time Darling Harbour • Sydney Sightseeing Adult: $2594 Single Supplement: $555

12 DAY BIRDSVILLE & CARNARVON GORGE

Departs: 11/05/19

11 DAY ISLANDS IN THE SUN Departs: 07/06/19

• 2 Nights Carnarvon Gorge • 2 Nights Longreach • Birdsville Pub & Big Red Sand Dune • Min Min Encounter • New Waltzing Matilda Centre • Longways Station Tour • Stockmans Hall of Fame & Outback Show • Thomson River Cruise & Camp Dinner • Qantas Founders Museum • Arcadia Valley Escape

• 2 Nights Airlie Beach, 1770 & Townsville • 1770 Distillery • Butterfly Walk • Port of Gladstone Harbour Cruise • 1770 LARC Tour • Footlights Theatre Restaurant • Capricorn Caves • Whitsunday Cruise • Magnetic Island Tour • Reef HQ Townsville

Adult: $4880 Single Supplement: $1057

Adult: $4498 Single Supplement: $1027

SPECIALISING IN SENIOR’S TRAVEL info@downundercoachtours.com.au

16 DAY CORNER COUNTRY & THE FLINDERS RANGES

Departs: 20/07/19

42 DAY GREAT WESTERN ADVENTURE

Departs: 15/08/19

• Burke & Wills Dig Tree • Great Central Road • Cameron Corner • Kings Canyon • 4WD Ridge Top Tour, Arkaroola • Uluru & Kata Tjuta • Depot Glen & Milparinka • Cape Leeuwin & Jewel Cave • Wilpena Pound • Monkey Mia Adult: $5898 Single Supplement: $1150 Adult: $15348 Single Supplement: $4430

15 DAY OUTBACK WAY AUSTRALIA’S WILD HEART

Coach/Fly

Departs: 15/08/19

• Great Central Road • Kings Canyon • Uluru & Kata Tjuta NP • Giles Weather Station • Lake Ballard Sculptures Adult: $6611 Single Supplement: $1864

14 DAY WA SOUTH WEST, WILDFLOWERS & MONKEY MIA

Departs: 29/08/19 Fly/Coach/Fly • Rottnest Island Tour • Jewel Cave • Wave Rock • Hamelin Pools Stromatolites • Monkey Mia Dolphins Adult: $5912 Single Supplement: $1274

COMPLIMENTARY DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE (Area Conditions Apply) www.downundercoachtours.com.au

www.facebook.com/downundercoachtours

I am interested in receiving your 2019 Coach Touring Brochure. Please add me to your mailing list: Name: _____________________ Address: ____________________ __________________________ P/code:______Ph: ____________ Email: _____________________ Send to: Down Under Coach Tours, PO Box 149, Maryborough Q 4650 sn0319

FULLY ACCOMMODATED TOURS

Prices quoted are per person twin share

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

Tips before overseas travel Seniors News BEFORE you head overseas, take the time to check how your travel could affect your Centrelink and Medicare payments, and how to travel safely with PBS medication. Centrelink payments The rules vary according to your payments or concession card. Some payments or concession cards will automatically stop as soon as you leave, and may reinstate upon your return. Other payments may allow you to travel overseas for a short period before your payment stops or adjusts. Generally, you can travel: ❚ Up to 28 days in a 12 month period if you receive Disability Support Pension ❚ Up to six weeks at a time if you are a Family Tax Benefit, Carer Payment or Carer Allowance customer ❚ Up to 19 weeks if you are a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holder. Age Pension recipients

TRAVEL PLANS: Centrelink customers, including pensioners, should check what their overseas travel might mean for their payments and concession cards. who travel overseas for six weeks or less will not experience any change to their payment. After six weeks, the rate of Age Pension might change as some supplement payments stop or reduce, and your concession cards will cancel. After 26 weeks outside the country, your payment rate will be based on how long you have been an Australian resident.

Tell us about your travel It’s important to the appropriate authority know, either online at myGov or phone 136 240, when you plan to travel overseas so we can assess if it may affect your payments. You can also do this by calling us on your regular payment line or visiting a service centre. We’ll tell you if your travel affects your payments or concession

cards and if we need any extra information. The immigration department will also notify us when you leave or enter Australia. Taking Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) medications overseas There are strict rules for taking PBS medications out of Australia. It’s illegal to take PBS medication out the country unless it’s for your personal use or for the use of someone

travelling with you. If you plan to take your PBS medication with you, make sure you check it’s legal to take it to the country you’re visiting and if you’re permitted to take it out of Australia. You can check if your medication is legal by contacting the country’s embassy, high commission, or consulate. You should also take a letter from your doctor with you,

which specifies the medicine you take for personal use, and how much of it you use. If you can’t do this, print and fill in the Medicine Export Declaration form and take this with you through customs. It’s also important to speak with your doctor beforehand to confirm if your medication will last you for your trip. Medicare coverage Medicare doesn’t cover any health or medical treatments you receive overseas. However, some of your medical costs may be covered under a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement if you visit a country that has an agreement with Australia. Make sure you take your Medicare card with you if visiting one of these countries. If travelling on a cruise ship between two Australian ports, you’re entitled to claim Medicare benefits for eligible services provided by a registered medical practitioner. The practitioner must be registered in Australia for Medicare benefits. Info: humanservices. gov.au/individuals.

1300 551 997 | (07) 5513 1086 E: info@goseetouring.com www.goseetouring.com

SOLO TRAVEL: Find someone to go travelling with through the new Australian website GoPal. Photo: Rawpixel

FIND a travelling companion who also wants to explore the world, or your backyard, with you through the new Australian-based website GoPal. The new business aims to help solve the problem for those people who would love to travel, but not on their own or don’t want to pay a single supplement. GoPal is offering to match like-minded travellers using criteria such as gender, age, interests and destination. It’s the idea of avid

traveller Bruce Southerden. He says it’s not a dating site. “And it’s not just about saving money or sidestepping single supplements. “It’s about tapping into a world of other travellers who also want someone to travel with, so that you can feel safe and free to travel anywhere, anytime and anyhow – independently, on cruises, on group tours. Our mission is to help people realise their dreams, live fuller lives and be healthier and more active.”

Membership is free and open to everyone, anywhere, not just singles. Members aren’t limited to finding just one companion at a time or a companion in their own city or country. The service offers special travel discounts from travel companies such as Booking.com, Expedia, Agoda, Webjet, G Adventures, Contiki, Princess Cruises and P&O, Emirates, Virgin, Accor, Intercontinental, Avis and many more. For more details, go to gopal.travel.

6885061ao

Solo traveller service

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Europe’s top spots to retire FROM the Old-World splendours, to the romantic atmospheres and storybook landscapes, it’s no wonder so many expats are drawn to Europe in retirement. A new report from the editors at International Living Australia explores the top five European destinations in the 2019 Annual Global Retirement Rankings for Aussies to retire to. For a relatively small continent, Europe has a lot to offer retirees in terms of healthy living, beautiful scenery and, of course, low costs. It’s also home to fascinating history, captivating cultures and iconic landmarks. The top five places in 2019 for Australians to retire to in Europe are… #1 Italy Italy tops the list of European havens on International Living Australia’s 2019 Global Retirement Rankings—offering an alluring lifestyle and conjuring thoughts of balmy evenings, sipping chilled wine in moonlit palazzos. Even on a

SURPRISE: There are very beautiful, affordable places to live overseas, pictured is Versilia Beach, Tuscany, Italy. modest budget, that dream lifestyle can be achieved in the right places. Having been seduced by the many charms of Italian life Brisbane native Debra Kolkka and her husband, Jim, live part-time in the Tuscan spa Town of Bagni di Lucca. “Once Italy gets under your skin it’s difficult to ignore the call,” says Debra. “It’s enchanted me since I first visited in 1972 and in 2003—when life finally allowed—Jim and I bought a home here (a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment with heavenly views up

and down the valley that cost us 90,000 ($141,725). Now we spend part of every year savouring Italian life. #2 Portugal Portugal, the westernmost country on mainland Europe’s Iberian Peninsula, is a rising star on Europe’s retirement map. Portugal offers Western Europe’s lowest cost of living and foreign retirees can legally own real estate here too. All of these factors combine to make the country an increasingly popular choice for retirees looking for a place to call home in an Old World European

retirement haven. #3 Spain Beaches, mountains, fabulous cities, colourful festivals and sunshine almost every place. It’s not surprising that Spain is a popular country for Europeans seeking a home overseas and now wandering Aussies are discovering the allure of Spain for laidback yet cultured life. Even better, the country has great healthcare and it all comes at an affordable price: Spain has one of the lowest costs of living in Europe. Spain’s La Rioja province in the north, set in the Ebro river valley and

at the foothills of the Cantabrian Mountains is one destination where the value is hard to beat. Here, a bottle of good wine can be had for around $4 and $625 rents a furnished, three-bedroom apartment. #4 France France, with its reputation for glamour and the finer things in life, leads many people to cross the country off their retirement destination list, mistakenly assuming that they could never afford to live there. It also offers retirees an excellent quality of life. Of course, Paris is expensive—as are many big cities. But a retired couple can live well in the South of France—Bordeaux, Montpellier and Pau—on a modest budget. For example, in lovely medieval town of Pézenas in the South of France, near Montpellier, a beautiful two-bedroom apartment full of character and modern conveniences rents for a shade under $770 a month. #5 Croatia Life moves at a relaxed

pace in Croatia, not only on the islands, but also on much of the mainland and it’s attracting retirees in greater numbers. Spend time in the city of Pula, on Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula, as IL Contributor Tricia A Mitchell and her husband Shawn recently did, and you might think you were you were somewhere else entirely. “Istria is more affordable, allowing Shawn and I to live comfortably for about $1,700 a month.” It’s also less densely populated than TuscanyYou’re about 100 kilometres from Trieste and just a four-hour ferry ride from Venice.” The complete International Living Australia 2019 Global Retirement Rankings report, can be found here: The World’s Best Places for Australians to Retire to 2019: go to internationalliving.com /au/the-best-places -to-retire/. Info: InternationalLiving. com/au. Source:International Living.com/au

The top Asian countries to rent or buy in during retirement ACCORDING to International Living Australia Global Retirement Ranking 2019, the best places for Australians to buy and rent overseas are Thailand, Malaysia and Italy. Affordability is one of the most important factors in planning a successful and happy new life overseas. Get more but spend less. That’s the goal. Costs for food, transportation, medical care, utilities and fun are all part of the equation but housing is the most

important consideration. When moving overseas, International Living Australia recommends you rent before you buy—give yourself time to get to know the area and be sure it’s the right fit for you. Research is key. The countries that score the highest in the Buying and Renting category of the 2019 Annual Global Retirement Rankings are…. #1 Thailand From the golden beaches to the fabulous food and friendly people, it’s easy to see why

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can cost as little as $541 per month. If you would rather see the Ping River and local markets from your window, it’s possible to find studios for $460 per month. More luxurious one-bedroom apartments with great views of the night markets and mountains can be found for around $708 per month. If you are living near the Old City you will have everything you could possibly need at your fingertips.” InternationalLiving.com /au.

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conveniences of city living but without the high-rise. This city is only a one-hour flight away from Bangkok. “There is an abundance of apartments to choose from dotted around the Old City. For the budget conscious, studio units are a great deal. A 38-metre-square studio in an older building with close proximity to shopping centres and the Old City can rent for as little as $375 per month. A new, one-bedroom, 38-square-metre apartment with expansive views of the mountains

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SENIORS \\MARCH, 2019

Melanoma journey One man uses his experience to warn about sun protection Tracey Johnstone WITH one foot on the throttle of his caravanning dreams and the other on ensuring he continues to survive from his long melanoma journey, Dennis Applebee is ready to hit the road. The 69-year-old and his wife Pam have sold their seven-days-a-week dry cleaning business in Tasmania’s Devonport and retired. The first caravan trip is for four weeks as they watch how Dennis’s health handles the experience. There’s been no mention of remission. But it can come back at any time. Every time a little bump pops up, Dennis heads straight to the doctor. “Cover up,” he states emphatically. “Slip, slop, slap; cover up,” he declares again. “I will be covered up and will be looking for shade. “My message is to enjoy the sun, but don’t go out and bake yourselves.”

Pam adds that with the knowledge we have about melanoma, young people should always cover up. “Have a look at the people who have this cancer; most of them die,” she said. “Dennis is very lucky he has survived.” Just over 20 years ago Dennis was a keen runner, fitting in a 10km run each day. He was a naturally an outdoors person. “You think back to 1986,” Dennis said. “There was no such thing as cover yourself and things like that, and I worked outside all my life. “Then a mole popped up on the left-hand side of my forehead, near the temple, and I thought what the hell is this? I wasn’t feeling a bit bright. “My boss brought me home from Shipton where I was working for the water board.” Dennis went straight to his doctor, and “that’s where it all started”, Dennis recounts. A surgeon removed the mole, but testing revealed it was a melanoma. “He said to us; get your life in order, you have only

MELANOMA MARCH: Tasmanian Dennis Applebee and his wife Pam, ready to head off on long awaited retirement trip after Dennis’ difficult melanoma experience. six months to live,” Dennis said. During that time he really struggled with a lack of knowledge around melanoma.

Only six months later Dennis noticed a lump near his left ear, right near his lymph glands. The melanoma was back. He had to undergo surgery to

remove the affected lymph glands as well as a shoulder direction. Following this Dennis had to undergo an intensive 12 months of chemotherapy to treat the melanoma. “They threw everything at me,” he said. Dennis and Pam have two sons and 10 grandchildren, and he just wants to enjoy life more and with them. Dennis says they have heard their grandfather’s message about taking care of their skin. The couple plan to be back from caravanning in time for Melanoma March. He will again throw his support behind the Devonport Lions Club march and fundraiser. “I have a big scar down the side of my neck,” Dennis said. “A lot of people see it and ask what happened there. That’s when I start telling them. “I often start off by saying, ‘that’s where they cut off me bad head’ as Tasmanians have two heads,” he jokes. “It really starts the conversation.” For more information, go to the website melanomamarch.org.au.

Wellbeing

Australia’s melanoma research

AUSTRALIA has regained the unenviable title of having the world’s highest rates of invasive melanoma. The study conducted by QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute and has found that invasive melanoma rates in Australians have plateaued, while rates in New Zealand have started to fall. The data showed that in 2014/2015 about 50 in every 100,000 Australians were diagnosed, compared to about 47 out of every 100,000 New Zealanders. QIMR Berghofer Senior Scientist Professor David Whiteman said the Australian figures were surprising because the 2016 analyses had suggested that melanoma incidence would decline in both countries.

Include the sunscreen in your morning routine repeated small doses of sunlight. The recommendation is that we apply sunscreen every morning before we head out the door, when the maximum UV level is forecast to be three or higher. “For much of Australia, that means people should apply sunscreen all year round, but in areas like Tasmania and Victoria there are a few months over winter when

sunscreen is not required,” Professor Neale added. The easiest way to do this? Brush your teeth, brush your hair, apply the sunscreen; every day. And, if you are staying outdoors for any length of time, wear a hat, protective clothing, sunglasses and reapply the sunscreen every two hours. For those seniors concerned about what

affect sunscreen could have on them, Terry Slevin from the Public Health Association of Australia says: “There is consistent and compelling evidence that sunscreens are safe, and reactions occur in a very low proportion of the population”. “Importantly, clinical trials have found that people who use sunscreen daily have the same levels of vitamin D as those who don’t.”

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DO IT DAILY: Everyone, every morning, should be applying sunscreen before heading out the door.

SLAP on the sunscreen as part of your daily routine, experts are telling us. “We are exposed to sunlight in so many ways and not all of it is due to conscious sunbaking,” QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute’s Associate Professor Rachel Neale says. Critcially, she reminds us that the DNA damage that causes skin cancer and melanoma accumulates with

WELLBEING

MARCH, 2019// SENIORS

Memory could be being lost during apnoea episodes

SLEEP apnoea is not just about suffering through poor sleep and breathing problems, it’s now been found to affect people’s memories. A new study led by RMIT University looked at how obstructive sleep apnoea affected autobiographical memory. It found that people with the condition, when untreated, had problems recalling specific details about their lives. Lead investigator Dr Melinda Jackson said the research built on the known links between depression and memory. “We know that overly general autobiographical memories – where people don’t remember many specific details of life events – are associated with the development of persistent depression,” Dr Jackson said. “Our study suggests sleep apnoea may impair the brain’s capacity to either encode or consolidate certain types of life memories, which makes it hard for people to recall details from the past. “OSA is increasingly common, affecting up to 30 per cent of elderly people and around one in four Australian men aged over 30. “Sleep apnoea is also a significant risk factor for depression so if we can better understand the neurobiological mechanisms at work, we have a chance to improve the mental health of millions of people.” About five per cent of Australians suffer from sleep apnoea. The BetterHealth Channel describes it as

EYE TIPS: Cataract surgery is a very common and for many seniors, it’s almost inevitable the surgery will be needed. Photo: wathanyu

Cataract tips and choices before surgery SLEEP APNOEA: Left untreated, people with this condition were found to have problems recalling specific details about their lives. when a person’s breathing stops for a period of time, generally between 10 seconds and up to one minute, until the brain registers the lack of breathing or a drop in oxygen levels and sends a small wake-up call. The sleeper rouses slightly, opens the upper airway, typically snorts and gasps, then drifts back to sleep almost immediately. This pattern can repeat itself hundreds of times a night, causing fragmented sleep. The recommended treatment for OSA includes weight loss and cutting back on alcohol. Active treatment of the condition includes nasal CPAP, mouthguards or surgical correction of upper airway obstruction.

Dr Jackson said the use of CPAP machines to treat sleep apnoea had improved some of the cognitive impairments related to the condition. “An important next step will be to determine whether successful treatment of sleep apnoea can also help counter some of these memory issues or even restore the memories that have been lost,” she added. The study was conducted in collaboration with the Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, and University of Melbourne and published in Journal of the International Neuropsychology Society.

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BEFORE you make a decision on whether to have cataract surgery there are several issues you should become familiar with. Because you have cataracts doesn’t mean you have to have surgery, says cataract and retinal surgeon Dr Simon Chen from Vision Eye Institute. He suggests glasses may be a solution, to start, but once the cataracts reach a certain point where you no longer have the quality of vision that you want, then it’s probably time you have surgery to remove them. An eye specialist will talk you through the pre-surgery steps. They will look at what level of vision you have and your lifestyle to determine if you need to have cataract surgery. You will also be assessed for suitability based on your general health, whether you have other issues with your eyes and what is the cause of the cataracts. “Most cataracts are typically related to age,” Dr Chen said. But sometimes they can be related to underlying health conditions which will influence the treatment choice.

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If you have the common problem of dry eyes, the accuracy of the critical measurements being taken pre-surgery can be affected, so a specialist is likely to treat that condition firstly. “When you have cataract surgery we take a range of measurements and they are used to

calculate the power of lens that is going to be put in your eye, like a pair of glasses, but it goes inside the eye permanently,” Dr Chen said.

conditions such as glaucoma or macular degeneration, there is increasingly a wide range of different procedures we can do at the same time as cataract surgery.”

SURGICAL OPTIONS

LENS CHOICES

There are two choices of surgery – manual or laser-assisted. With the commonly used manual operation the surgeon uses a scalpel to make an incision into the eye and then uses other devices to remove the cataract. “Even the best surgeon in the world when they have a blade in their hand, not every operation is going to be exactly the same,” Dr Chen said. “So, there is a little element of unpredictability in surgery no matter how good the surgeon is.” In laser-assisted surgery the first few key steps are performed by computer guided laser. “It removes some element of human error,” Dr Chen said. It also increases the predictability of the surgery outcomes. The choice of this laser surgery is often limited by cost and availability. Many seniors have both cataracts and macular degeneration. “If you have macular degeneration, that will limit the improvement you get (from surgery),” Dr Chen said. “Even if you have a perfectly performed operation, you will probably see a lot better, but you may not see perfectly afterwards. It’s important to ask your surgeon what sort of outcome you are expecting.” “For a lot of people who have additional eye

There is no one size when it comes to lens choices. It comes down to what is your lifestyle. The most common choice is long distance vision with glasses worn for reading. Or you can choose a reading lens and then wear glasses for long distance. The third choice is a multifocal lens so no glasses are required, but there are limitations with your sight at night when driving.

NON-SURGICAL CHOICES

“Not any good ones,” Dr Chen said. He adds those on offer can’t reverse the cataract nor stop them getting worse. It may be possible to delay cataract surgery and choose to update your glasses and change your lifestyle such as stop driving or stop working. “Once it starts to deteriorate and it starts to have a negative impact on your quality of life, then you should consider surgery,” Dr Chen said. “The longer you leave it, the more advanced the cataract becomes and so the higher the risk of complications during surgery.” Dr Chen said cataract surgery is a very common and for many seniors, it’s almost inevitable the surgery will be needed. He believes after surgery a person’s quality of life improves, there is less likelihood of falls and the opportunity to maintain an independent lifestyle increases.

SENIORS \\MARCH, 2019

WELLBEING

Tips to help spinal health

SUFFERING from back pain is a burden that affects all aspects of one’s health. As the body is controlled by the central nervous system, the spine must be able to support it in order for people to function at their full potential. The spine should be recognised as a priority when it comes to maintaining good health. Back pain is an increasingly common problem many people face, with 70–90 per cent of Australians experiencing back pain at some point in their life. In 2014–15 alone, 3.7 million people reported back pain, equivalent to one in six people, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. There are a number of simple lifestyle changes individuals can make daily to improve their spinal health and reduce the risks associated with back pain. Leading spinal surgeon Dr Michael Wong shares five ways to improve long-term spinal health. 1. REDUCE SITTING TIME TO 45-MINUTE BLOCKS “If you’ve got an office job, you’ll notice that your daily routine tends to lead you from bed to the car, to a chair and finally the couch,” he said.

“Whether you partake in exercise or not, sitting for prolonged periods of time causes the brain to recognise that position as one to hold, allowing your muscles to shorten and locking your posture. It’s even been claimed that ‘sitting is the new smoking’, with long bouts of uninterrupted sitting increasing our risk of death. “It’s important to take a break from the sitting position at least every hour if your job or lifestyle keeps you at a desk. “Keep an eye on the time or set a timer to stand and walk around the room every 30–45 minutes to give your body and mind a quick break to refresh. You can also do jumping jacks, calisthenics, sit-ups or whatever option works best for you. “Standing desks are also a good alternative.” 2. CORRECT POSTURE “Sitting for long periods of time causes the back to tense up and lock, which is even worse when sitting with bad posture,” Dr Wong said. “A good way of correcting this is to get into the habit of noticing and fixing your posture to sit up with a straightened back. The more you correct yourself, the more you will unconsciously sit

BACK UP: Back pain is an increasingly common problem many people face, with 70–90 per cent of Australians experiencing back pain at some point in their life. Photo: FlyMint Agency in this position. “Mobile phones also cause posture issues. When in use, keep the device at eye level to decrease the stress to the back and neck.” 3. SLEEP ON YOUR BACK “In terms of sleeping, the most comfortable positions usually aren’t beneficial for spinal health,” Dr Wong said. “Sleeping on your stomach offers no support to the back and the pull of gravity causes the spine to bow. “The most supportive position for your

alignment is sleeping on your back. Although this may be uncomfortable initially, it is a good habit to get used to. For more support, sleep on your side with a pillow between your legs. Invest in a supportive mattress and pillow that promotes proper alignment of the neck.” 4. STRETCH MUSCLES “It is important to stay flexible through stretching to avoid back problems or potential injuries,” Dr Wong said. “The core muscles, particularly the lower back

and abdominal muscles, need to be strong and supple to support the spine and take pressure off the lower back. Core muscles are rarely used in everyday activities, so have specific, targeted exercise to strengthen core muscles. “Also make sure to stretch before doing heavy lifting or exercising and add it to your daily routine just before bed. Stretches can be as simple and quick as bending forward, back and side-to-side.” 5. EAT A HEALTHY DIET “It’s important to make

lifestyle modifications to help manage overall pain,” he said. “Be conscious of any excess fat, especially on the central abdomen, which puts extra weight on the lumbar spine. “When you have a healthy diet, it is more likely you will have more energy to do exercise regularly. Nutrients in anti-inflammatory food have properties that can help relieve pain and assist in reducing osteoarthritis of joints.” Info: drmwong.com.

Australia leads the world in dementia care NEW Federal Government funding will facilitate the introduction of a world-first Specialist Dementia Care Program. The $70 million program is for people who have very severe behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia. It will provide specialist care for people who are currently unable to be appropriately cared for by mainstream residential aged care services. Thirty-five specialist dementia care units will

be established across all states and territories. The first units should be operational by early 2020 with the remainder planned for 2023. The program will include: ■ Establishment of at least one specialist care unit in each Primary Health Network, generally comprising nine beds, located within existing residential aged care facilities. ■ A nationally consistent needs-based assessment framework to ensure care

is delivered to those most in need. ■ Person-centred and multidisciplinary care delivered in accordance with 10 Specialist Dementia Care Program service delivery principles. ■ Formalised arrangements for regular specialist clinical input and review. ■ Transitional support that focuses on reducing or stabilising symptoms, with the aim of enabling the person to move to a less intensive care

setting. ■ Regular reporting on client outcomes, independent evaluation and a focus on identifying and sharing best practice in specialist dementia care. The program was developed through consultation with dementia experts, clinicians, state and

territory governments, dementia peak groups and carers of people living with dementia. Currently, there are about 436,370 Australians living with dementia. That number is expected to rise to about 589,800 by 2028. The Specialist Dementia Care Program is

an added initiative to the programs already being funded under the various government programs, including the research into ultrasound technology to treat Alzheimer’s, aged care workforce education and further research into dementia prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure.

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MARCH, 2019// SENIORS

Living

BRAND INSIGHTS AS the battle for the hearts and minds of energy consumers continues across Queensland, Sunshine Coast Seniors are uniquely placed to back a local and secure great rates and personalised service from a business that started on the Coast and has its head office in Maroochydore. LPE started in 2012 as the brainchild of co-founders Ben Chester and Damien Glanville working out of a small office in Cotton Tree. Both had worked in the power industry and both had a passion for bringing more affordable power to those who could most benefit from it. Spotting a gap in the market for the provision of power to strata communities LPE started out offering Body Corporates the chance to reduce power costs for their residents by allowing LPE to step in and take

LPE offers honest energy on the Coast

over the provision of power to each of the residences in the complexes. From there the business has grown to the point it now employs 45 staff from its headquarters in Plaza Parade, Maroochydore, having added eight more staff in the last two weeks. It is listed on the ASX, has more than 20,000 customers and offers services including home electricity, strata electricity, common area electricity, embedded networks, and strata solar energy solutions. For Ben, who started his career as a structural engineer and moved on to managing major power infrastructure projects around the world, the chance to create a new model for power supply for Australia proved too powerful to ignore. Working with solar and wind generating plants Ben and Damien saw that those living in high density

ENERGY SAVERS: LPE Directors Ben Chester and Damian Glanville. environments would struggle to access any benefits of these sorts of solutions unless a new model could be created that made this style of power available to buildings and body corporates. One of LPE’s most recent products caters for this. Targeted at smaller strata communities with

six lots and above LPE will install a solar power system on the roof of the community at no cost to the body corporate that can then supply power directly to the common areas of the complex and to any occupants who opt to access is at the lower solar power rate. For local residents Ben said the business had

secured very competitive rates for retail power supply to individual homes. Owners can opt to swap to LPE quickly and efficiently and all applicable discounts they may be eligible for in terms of seniors discounts will be applied from the very first bill. He said the business had opted for a

transparent and honest approach and the rate you were quoted up front would be the rate you saw on the bill – no discounting required. For residents on body corporate committees or in body corporate environments, LPE could be able to help lower power costs and Ben said he had staff who were willing to talk to anyone interested in finding out more to see if a great solution was possible. “We’re staying local and we’re firmly anchored on the Sunshine Coast,” Ben said. For customers, that means local service by local people, and even the possibility of dropping by head office to chat in person with a full time LPE employee about their power. LPE is at Suite 306, Tower 1, 55 Plaza Parade, Maroochydore. For more, phone 07 3505 5963 or go to localityenergy.com.au.

SENIORS \\MARCH, 2019

LIVING

Have your history written BRAND INSIGHTS WHEN former newspaper editor Peter Chapman was first handed a notebook and a pen, he was sent off to write a story about a woman celebrating her 100th birthday. He recalls many years later how, as a raw cadet, he didn’t know what to expect as he walked into her retirement village at Ryde. “I thought I’d have to shout out my questions and look to her children to give me the answers,” he said. “Instead I found a spritely 100-year-old who

ended up playing the piano for me and handing out lamingtons she’d just cooked. Her sense of humour and love of life was intoxicating. “It was such a wonderful experience to meet her and I trust that the newspaper story I wrote on her big day did her justice.” Peter said that early interview helped fuel his love of writing people’s life stories that featured in the many newspapers he was editor of. “Whenever a young journalist told me they didn’t have a story for tomorrow’s paper, I’d tell them to go and interview

MY LIFE: Shirley Chapman shares the memories in her My Life Book with great-grandson Kyzar and granddaughter Dannielle. Photo: Contributed someone for a My Life column. ‘Everyone has a story,’ I’d tell them. Some of those yarns proved to be crackers.” Now without the title “Editor” in front of his name, Peter has found another way to continue celebrating people’s lives. He has just founded a new company that produces a “My Life Book”. “My mum is in her 80s and not enjoying the best of health and I thought it

would be great to have a celebration of her life in a hard book form before she says farewell,” he said. “So I sat down with her over a few days and put a book together talking about her life, the childhood memories and how she managed to raise six of us in a small Housing Commission home in Sydney. “I thought I knew everything about Mum, but I soon realised there

were many other stories she hadn’t shared.” The book of his mum’s life created so much good feedback he decided to expand it and he’s now offering the service to others. The idea is that the book, which combines a pictorial history as well as a person’s life memories, is a special keepsake that can be handed on to generation after generation. “My only issue with

Mum’s book is that now she keeps ringing me up, telling me more and more stories she has just remembered,” Peter laughed. NOTE: If you’d like your life to be remembered in a book, Peter would love to chat to tell you how he can make it happen. You can contact Peter via his email address peterchapmanpw@ gmail.com or go to mylifebook.com.au.

Make yourself feel good with these top tips for decluttering INSTEAD of sending your unwanted household items to the tip as you try to declutter your home after the Christmas holidays, the alternative could be rehoming them. The latest rage for dealing with decluttering is KonMari. Sustainability Victoria acting CEO Stephanie Ziersch said the rush of affection for this method was a positive thing but highlighted the risk of items being discarded instead of consciously rehomed. The six KonMari steps

are: commit yourself to tidying up, imagine your ideal lifestyle, finish discarding first, tidy by category not by location, follow the right order (clothes, books, paper, miscellaneous items, sentimental items) and ask yourself ‘does it spark joy?’ Ms Ziersch suggests adding in a seventh step – reflect on waste and take action to reduce, reuse, recycle and respect. “While we’re encouraged to hear households en masse are busy clearing out the

just disappear once you’ve given it a kiss and thanked it for its service.”

CLEAN UP: Clutter doesn't just disappear once you've given it a kiss and thanked it for its service. clutter, the question remains: where are we sending all those bags of joyless garments and items once we’re done with them?” she said. “All that clutter doesn’t

SUSTAINABILITY VICTORIA SUGGESTS THESE SEVEN TIPS WHEN EMBARKING ON THE KONMARI JOURNEY: 1. Consider selling unloved items on sites like eBay, Gumtree or Facebook. 2. Contact your local charity group to see if they are willing to pick up your unwanted furniture. 3. Gift your once-loved items to friends or family. 4. Take your old TVs and

computers to drop-off points where they are recycled as part of the National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme. 5. Drop your mobile phones and tablets off for recycling at MobileMuster collection points found at phone shops and post offices. 6. Offer your good-quality clothes to charities that will resell them for fundraising purposes, or potentially give them to disadvantaged people. 7. Contact your local council to find out how

your items can be recycled locally. “While the concept of tidying your home and letting go of objects that serve no purpose is important, waste avoidance is just as pressing,” Ms Ziersch said. “For example, Australians are the world’s second-largest consumers of textiles, buying on average 27kg of new clothing and other textiles each year, of which $500 million worth of clothing is sent to landfill.”

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MARCH, 2019// SENIORS

Plastic kills our world Tracey Johnstone IT CAN start with one action at a time and lead to big changes in our home and in our community if we aim each day to make single-use plastic less a part of our everyday lives. It’s a huge subject. Single-use plastic is a way of life for many seniors. It’s what we are used to using in so many ways, but when you stop and really think about the impact those plastics are having on the world in which we live, you might just want to start chipping away at making your impact a little less negative and a lot more positive. CSIRO research scientist Dr Qamar Schuyler quoted the following disturbing numbers: ■ Over 50 per cent of turtles worldwide have ingested plastics ■ By the year 2050, it is predicted 90 per cent of seabird species will have ingested plastics ■ There are some 700 species of marine animals

that have been entangled in marine debris, or eaten marine debris Where to start Tackle one thing at a time Dr Schuyler recommends. And, develop awareness of what you use and how. Trying to not use plastics at all is the best choice, but that for many people is a major change of lifestyle. Perhaps, approach individual items and gradually look for ways to reduce your use of single-use plastics. “Here’s the plastic I have used in a week. What’s the dominant thing there? Let me try to address that one first,” she suggests as being a simple approach to getting started. Reduction before recycling “Before you get to recycling, if you can reduce the use of single-use plastics then you are creating the situation where you don’t need to use the energy and resources to try to recycle that plastic,” Dr Schuyler said. Because of the various additives used to

PCHOKED: A sea turtle eating a plastic bag. manipulate the way a plastic product acts, it’s much harder to recycle them into the same form. Rather, they may be downcycled into a different product. Redcycle is such a company that takes soft plastics and converts them into things like benches and astro turf. They often have collection points at major supermarkets. Beth Terry on her blog, myplasticfreelife.com,

Photo: Kwangmoozaa

offers 100 ideas for reducing plastic in our everyday lives. “Don’t try it all at once,” Terry advises. Her top 10 ideas to start a gradual change in your household are: ■ Carry reusable shopping bags ■ Give up bottled water ■ Shop at your local farmers market ■ Say no to plastic produce bags ■ Buy from bulk bins as often as possible

■ Cut out soft drinks, juices, and all other plastic-bottled beverages ■ Buy fresh bread that comes in either paper bags or no bags ■ Return containers for berries, cherry tomatoes etc to the farmers market to be reused ■ Bring your own container for meat and prepared foods ■ Choose milk in returnable glass bottles “She has got her plastic use down to a small

laundry basket for the whole year,” Dr Schuyler said. Recycling When it comes to plastic bottles, there is no simple answer as to what you can or can’t put in your recycle bin. The best solution is to contact your local council and ask what is allowable. Dr Schuyler also suggests using the ABC’s abc.net.au/ourfocus/ waronwaste as a source of household tips.

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Women’s challenges Paul Clitheroe THIS month we celebrate International Women’s Day, and in my book that’s an opportunity to focus on women’s financial wellbeing. A report by Monash University, commissioned by AustralianSuper, pulls no punches about the grim future many women could face in retirement. Entitled The Future Face of Poverty is Female, the study confirms that women face a number of financial challenges. It all starts from about age 28. Up to this point there’s only a small pay gap between men and women. But after this, the gender pay gap widens – and not just because women often take time out of the workforce to raise children.

Women are more likely to work in part-time roles, and less likely to hold senior management or executive positions. A key problem facing low-income earners is what the report describes as the ‘double penalty’ effect on the amount of super a woman can accumulate in her working life. A lower income means lower employer-paid super contributions (or none at all), and that means missing out on compounding returns, which are often most powerful when we start to grow super early in our working life. The upshot is that women typically have 40 per cent less in super than men. Projections of future super savings tend to be based on a continuous, linear, upward financial

Money

trajectory. In other words, steady work and a regular pay rise year after year. Clearly that’s not the case for all women. The AustralianSuper report makes a number of policy suggestions, including increasing the Low Income Super Tax Offset and removing the exemption from compulsory super for employees who earn less than $450 a month. But we can’t afford to wait for these changes – if they occur at all. Women – and men – can take important steps to grow their super without having to spend a cent extra. And that matters when cash is tight. First, pick the super fund that’s right for you, looking at fund fees in particular. Let your employer know you want their contributions paid

REALITIES: Women face a number of financial challenges, including typically 40 per cent less in super than men. Photo: Bojan89 into this fund, then take your super with you from job to job. Check if you have any lost super, too. Casual workers and people who’ve held a few different jobs are most likely to have some forgotten super. If you’re in a long-term

relationship, talk to your other half about a spouse super contribution. Your spouse or partner may be able to claim an 18 per cent tax offset on super contributions up to $3000 made to the fund of a non-working or low-income-earning partner.

Every bit helps, and simple steps can help all Australians enjoy a better-quality future. Paul Clitheroe is chairman of InvestSMART, chairman of the Australian Government Financial Literacy Board and chief commentator for Money Magazine.

Call to remember the power of compounding it wasn’t as harsh as the pessimistic share market had factored into banking share prices. This led to banking stocks jumping by at least 5 per cent in one day’s trading. Long-term returns on investments are affected by compound interest. It may seem a bit like magic but it’s actually pure maths. Unfortunately many miss out on its gifts because they are too busy looking for disasters around the corner or assuming that once disaster hits it will be with us long term. When we compare the value of $1 invested in various Australian assets (cash, bonds, shares) in

1900, allowing for the reinvestment of dividends and interest along the way, that $1 would have grown to $238 if invested in cash, $906 if invested in bonds, or $532,739 if invested in shares. While the average return on shares is only double relative to bonds since 1900, the huge difference between the two at the end owes to the power of compounding or earning returns on top of returns – that is, any interest or return earned in one period is added to the original investment so that it all earns a return in the next period and so on. Australian residential property data over the

decades reveals, on average, similar long-term compounded returns to shares. The “Law of 72” is helpful to understand how long it takes an investment to double in value using compounding. Divide 72 by the rate of return and that gives you the rough answer. For example, if the rate of return is 2 per cent per annum (for example, the interest rate on a bank term deposit), it will take about 36 years to double in value (72/2 = 36). But if it’s 8 per cent pa, then it will take just nine years (72/8 = 9). To grow our wealth, this would reveal it is better to

have broad exposure to growth assets like shares and property. While shares have been volatile lately and the short-term outlook for Australian housing is messy, both will likely do well over the long term. In the short term, investment markets bounce all over the place. Even annual returns in the share market are highly volatile but longer-term returns tend to be solid and relatively smooth. Since 1900, for Australian shares about two years out of 10 have had negative returns but there are no negative returns over rolling 20-year periods. (It’s

roughly three years out of ten for US shares.) As always, consult your financial adviser on how to best invest your money in these current markets. For more Information contact Mark Digby at Maher Digby Securities Pty Ltd – Financial Advisers – AFSL No.230559 (see advert P3). Phone: 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 adviser.

Congratulations to our Winners

Congratulations to the winners of our December Cold Pursuit Screening giveaway. Bev McMahon Graham Doust Joy Morton

Lauren Symes Vanessa Bradley

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IN THESE volatile markets it’s worthwhile to remember the power of compound interest. The markets finished 2018 at a low point due to global influences such as the China/US-threatened trade war, Trumponics, uncertainty over the Banking Royal Commission, pending Australian elections and Brexit issues. The markets recovered in January and it has been interesting to see how quickly they have returned once certainty appeared as a result of the release of the Banking Royal Commission report. The report wasn’t necessarily good news but

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REVIEWS

MARCH, 2019// SENIORS

The dangerous desire for fame

In the Closet of the Vatican

Tracey Johnstone THE handsome, intelligent and outwardly suave, aspiring novelist Maurice Swift wants fame and will pursue it at any cost. He chases every possible opportunity to take what he can and from whoever he can – he doesn’t discriminate – all for the one goal of getting published not once, but many, many times. If there is a story, and even if it’s not his, he will try to make it his own.

Big hearts in battle BATTLEFIELDS such as Gallipoli, Fromelles, Pozières, Bullecourt and Passchendaele are burnt into the Australian Great War psyche. Unfortunately, the sheer guts, fortitude and sacrifice of the diggers in those battles had often been wasted by poor leadership and planning. From an Australian perspective, such sacrifice engendered bitterness and frustration, which resulted in an emergent sense of Australian nationalism. In this authoritative account of the 100 days, Peter Brune traces the painstaking BEF (British Expeditionary Force) acquisition of its tactical doctrine with regard to its artillery, tanks and its air force. And the consequence of this knowledge was a sophisticated interlocking all arms approach to war: incorporating coordinated firepower rather than the futile expenditure of manpower. However, it is Brune’s use of participants’ diaries that brings an immediacy to his story. The reader will be taken to the bloody interface of battle, hear the voices of some of the Australians involved, and gain a sense of the cost of ultimate victory. Hardcover: $49.99.

‘‘

Swift moves forward while Ackerman pays the price of his lust. The setting is a hotel in the old West Berlin. Young Swift unexpectedly becomes acquainted with the award-winning author Erich Ackerman. Both want something from each other, but not the same. Swift sees opportunity, Ackerman sees a chance to share his devastatingly disturbing past in the hope of gaining connection. Swift moves forward while Ackerman pays the price of his lust. Once Swift has made his name he goes looking for new ideas; much in the same way as he has started. Mentors, friends and family fall by the wayside

in Swift’s pursuit of fame. We meet some interesting people during Swift’s journey. A sister called Rebecca is extraordinary. A strangely familiar Theo is unsettling. Ladder to the Sky is quickly captivating. It’s a dark tale that may be

confronting for some senior readers, but once you take the journey with its author John Boyne, it becomes easier to see how the start has so much importance in the costly end. There are light moments to balance the dark, and even an ending that leaves you

looking up rather than down. Is the book about an evil tale or a clever writer? Perhaps if you are an aspiring author you might find yourself sitting back and rethinking your ambition once you have read this tale. Published by Penguin. RRP $32.99.

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THIS explosive new book, which is being published simultaneously in 20 countries, reveals the Vatican secrets and penetrates its enigma. It’s being called a startlingly revealing and detailed account of corruption and hypocrisy at the heart of this institution. In the Closet of the Vatican exposes the rot at the heart of the Vatican and the Roman Catholic Church today. This investigative writing is based on four years’ authoritative research, including extensive interviews with those in power. It starts in junior seminaries and continues right up to the Vatican itself. It’s based on the double lives of priests and on extreme homophobia. The resulting schizophrenia in the Church is hard to fathom. But the more a prelate is homophobic, the more likely it is that he is himself gay. In the Closet of the Vatican reveals a truth that is extraordinary and disturbing. The author, Dr Frédéric Martel, is a French writer and researcher. Published by Bloomsbury, In the Closet of the Vatican is available now. $34.99.

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SENIORS \\MARCH, 2019

PUZZLES

JIGGERED

4/3

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

A N S A T H

R M E O O O R

N T T O R

I S O M T

U S M

R D G V R R A

O M E

E Y V E M A

R M A E W Y

C H A A D N D

F U M L I A B S

E E T N

G S T T

O G A O R T I C

M E N E L

D I E D W A Y

T H E E F R E

T B R E D

I R O N A

M P E Y

A L F A S T

L L R E S

E S W T A I

N C E

E R

A L Y

QUICK CROSSWORD Across 1. On land (6) 5. Renowned (6) 9. Entangle (6) 10. Hurry (6) 11. Daring (4) 12. Drink (8) 14. State categorically (6) 16. Loud, shrill laugh (6) 19. Bullﬁghter (8) 21. Close (4) 22. Actually (6) 23. Honestly (6) 24. Cease (6) 25. Divisions (6)

Down 2. Curving, snake-like (7) 3. Not paid on time (7) 4. Showed (9) 6. Lessen (5) 7. Proceeding as planned (2,5) 8. Open and honest (7) 13. Indirect (9) 14. Changed (7) 15. Outdo (7) 17. Hide (7) 18. Pamphlet (7) 20. Geographical book (5)

TRIO

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

SUDOKU

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

A L M F I F U N

JIGGERED

Across: 1. Ashore 5. Famous 9. Enmesh 10. Hasten 11. Bold 12. Beverage 14. Assert 16. Cackle 19. Toreador 21. Near 22. Really 23. Openly 24. Desist 25. Splits. Down: 2. Sinuous 3. Overdue 4. Exhibited 6. Abate 7. On track 8. Sincere 13. Vicarious 14. Altered 15. Surpass 17. Conceal 18. Leaﬂet 20. Atlas.

QUICK CROSSWORD

QUIZ 1. The 1996 Oscar-winning ﬁlm Shine was based on the life of which Australian? 2. What does a margarita cocktail consist of? 3. In which city is the headquarters of the United Nations? 4. What colour is the 10 on the door of 10 Downing Street, London? 5. Which cartoon character is the “fastest mouse in Mexico”? 6. What does an ombrophobe fear: umbrellas, vegetables or rain? 7. What is the title of the 1981 Eurovision Song Contest winner for Bucks Fizz? 8. What is the medication acetylsalicylic acid known as?

A R S O N

B O O T E E

L A T T E R

E P R A P R D O S P E P S T E T A D E R R I O R AW A D E D O D E T W E N T Y S E V E N S R O T A

WORDFIT

A S I L A I N M P O I R N N G A T E

H E A D U L L E N N M A T E T S AW S K I S I T A L Y L E K I N G N E A R N G N U I R A D E L A T E D EW E R

QUIZ

1. David Helfgott, 2 Tequila and citrus fruit juice, 3. New York, 4. White, 5. Speedy Gonzales, 6. Rain, 7. “Making Your Mind Up”, 8. Aspirin.

6 LETTERS ALASKA BOOTEE DETAIL ELATED GANDER INMATE IRKING

7 LETTERS LIMPING TADPOLE

TRIO: VAS

R A W

4 LETTERS ANTE EWER HUNT NEAR NILE OWED PADS ROAR ROTA RUED

SUDOKU

Solution opposite

5 LETTERS ABLER AHEAD ARSON ASIAN ERODE ESTER IRADE ITALY NEWSY ORGAN SPLAT STEIN

LATTER NEEDED NEGATE ORNATE OTTAWA OVERDO POPPED REWRAP SEVENS SULLEN SYSTEM TIRADE TWENTY

ALPHAGRAMS

Fit the words into the grid to create a ﬁnished crossword

SKIS STEP

NURSE, OPTICS, PATRONS, QUARTETS, REALITIES.

3 LETTERS ADO ELM ERR GNU ILK INN PIN RAW SAW SOT TAR TEN

WORDFIT

D I E D W A Y L A L L F O O T

Good 35 Very Good 34 Excellent 54+

S I

G A R I C N T O R O M E

628

TODAY

O R

RUNES PICOTS NO TRAPS SQUATTER ISRAELITE

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

I E

How many words of four letters or more can you make? Each letter must be used only once and all words must contain the centre letter. There is at least one nine-letter word. No words starting with a capital are allowed, no plurals ending in s unless the word is also a verb, e.g. he burns with anger.

A Y

WORD GO ROUND

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

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

WORD GO ROUND: IMPERIOUS impious impose imposer impure mope moper mopes mops opium opus peri perm peso pier pious pismire poem poise pome pore pores pose poser poseur pour pours pries prim prime primes primo prims primus prise prism proem prom promise prose pure purism purse ripe rips romp romps rope ropes rump simper soup soupier sperm spire spore sprue spume spur sump super supremo umpire umpires uprise uprose

ALPHAGRAMS

SUNSHINE COAST

MARCH, 2019// SENIORS

SA O IC

at Maroochydore

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