Toowoomba, November 2019 by seniors

November, 2019 FREE

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INSIDE PROFILE EX-POLICE COMMISSIONER CHRISTINE NIXON FINDS NEW WORLDS OF GIVING IN RETIREMENT

ENVIRONMENT ELECTRIC CAR, SOLAR PANELS, PROTESTS: MEET ONE LADY WHO HAS GONE GREEN

Focus ON FRIENDS We’re all social animals and we need to belong

ADVENTURE LEGENDARY ANTARCTIC EXPLORER: SYD KIRKBY’S FEARS AND TRIUMPHS SOCIAL TRAVEL, HEALTH, WEALTH AND HAPPINESS

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WELCOME

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

You need a hearing test!

But I’ve already got a hairy chest!

Tips for good health, well-being

We’re legends Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor

Excessive ear wax

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The concerns around traditional ear wax removal What about Irrigation / Syringing? The technique of directing water under pressure down the ear canal to ﬂush out ear wax. The pressure needs to be strong enough to shift the wax, however if the pressure is excessive, there is potential to cause damage to the ear drum.

What about Cotton Buds? While you can remove some ear wax with a cotton bud, in many cases it pushes a greater amount of wax further down the ear canal. This can then lead to the opposite desired effect, wax impaction. In addition, there is a greater risk to the delicate skin of the ear canal, ear drum, and of causing secondary ear infection.

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THIS month we feature explorers and pioneers of land, mind and electric cars! Besides the great youthful achievements of our featured profiles, these people have also moved into mature age and transformed their skills to suit the times. In my book, this part of our lives offers fresh opportunities to re-assess our lifestyle and what really matters, to speak up or change our minds or indeed, just settle down. For me, it’s remaining curious besides recognising and happily remaining open to change. In this edition you will meet Margaret McDonald who is driven by environmental concerns and Christine Nixon, the first woman to be appointed a police commissioner and her life after work. I found the story of legendary Antarctica surveyor Syd Kirkby and his pioneering adventures, including the pictures, thrilling. In our Living section, we take an in-depth look at something many of us suffer from - loneliness and possible solutions. Enjoy!

Community news and events

INDEX 3 4 6 10 12 14 16 21 30 34 35 39

News - Seniors urged save water Profile Story - Christine Nixon News - Healthy change time Feature Story - Syd Kirkby Community group guide What’s on Retirement News Wanderlust Wellbeing Living Money Puzzles

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 Mark Smith - 07 3327 3327 mark.smith@newsregionalmedia.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 “Toowoomba 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.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

NEWS

Let’s tap into water savings Alison Houston SENIORS are being urged to join the push to save water as the Toowoomba region moves to stricter water restrictions from December 2. “I think everyone realises the impact the current drought is having on our region and it’s important we respond to these trying conditions by limiting our water use,” said Water and Waste Committee chair Nancy Sommerfield. “Any reduction in water use could provide long-term benefits, so let’s all reduce water use wherever possible.” The new rules mean that all communities currently on low-level water restrictions will move to medium level – now 175 litres per day (down from 200L/p/d). Communities affected are Haden, Kulpi, Millmerran and all residents connected to the Toowoomba Bulk Supply (Cabarlah, Crows Nest, Goombungee, Gowrie Junction, Hampton, Highfields, Jondaryan, Kingsthorpe,

Meringandan, Oakey, Toowoomba, Westbrook and Wyreema). High-level restrictions move to 150L/p/d and extreme to 125L/p/d. “This means the current target levels for the communities of Brookstead, Clifton, Greenmount, Hodgson Vale, Nobby, Pittsworth and Southbrook will all move to 175 (L/p/d) whilst Yarraman, Cecil Plains, Vale View and Cambooya will be on 150 (L/p/d),” Cr Sommerfield said. There will also be changes to when residents are able to water the garden. “While our combined dam levels are still around 34 per cent, the future rain outlook isn’t promising, and as such, we felt it was imperative we made these changes to ensure water security for the region,” Cr Sommerfield said.

PLANNING AHEAD MAYOR Paul Antonio said that with the drought placing added stress on southern bore fields, council had recently had

to cart water to Cambooya, as well as Vale View, Cecil Plains, Greenmount and Clifton. However he said he had been “heartened” by the response of Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack when he visited Canberra at the end of last month. The mayor said he had outlined in Canberra details of meetings held between southern Queensland and northern New South Wales councils that discussed options for securing reliable long-term regional water supply. That included an inland diversion of the Upper Maryland River (at the head of northern NSW’s Clarence River system) to the Condamine River near Elbow Valley. “Our current water sources are designed to cater for demand to 2049 and we must plan now to ensure we have reliable water for future generations,” Mayor Antonio said. “There is no

DROUGHT RELIEF CONCERT: Gold Coast choir Fasolati in rehearsal for their November 24 concert at St Peter's Anglican Church, Southport, aiming to raise about $2000 to help 35-50 families in the Stanthorpe area. doubt that we must start using manufactured and treated water for industrial, commercial and some household uses, (such as garden watering) and save our precious drinking water supplies for human consumption.” Mayor Antonio said the potential to bring manufactured and industrial water from Brisbane for commercial and industrial use had been discussed and council was looking to use manufactured water in road construction and

other operational work. “Council also is considering additional household water-saving measures, including rebates for water tanks,” he said.

SINGING FOR STANTHORPE

MEANWHILE, joining a growing number of diverse individuals and groups helping drought-affected communities, Gold Coast community choir Fasolati (think do, re, me, fa, so …) will present a drought-relief concert at

3.30pm at St Peter’s Anglican Church, Southport on Sunday, November 24. Co-founder and choir manager Leigh Kealton Fasola said it was hoped to raise about $2000 to say thank you to Stanthorpe. According to Southern Downs Regional Council’s latest water update, Stanthorpe’s current dam level is at 17.5 per cent and water volume at 362ML which, based on targeted usage, means water will run out in December 2019/January 2020.

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PROFILE STORY

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Trailblazer

Christine Nixon up for a challenge Tracey Johnstone

ANOTHER LIFE: Former police commissioner Christine Nixon has taken on fresh challenges in her retirement. Photo: David Crosling

CHRISTINE Nixon is a woman of conviction who has stood in the line of fire in so many ways. She’s an outstanding changemaker and leader with a deep sense of community who at age 66 is facing her own and her family’s realities of ageing. Ms Nixon was the first woman in Australia to be appointed a police commissioner, taking on the role in Victoria in 2001 and holding it for eight years. She climbed up through the ranks, never wavering from her belief that her gender was irrelevant in relation to her ability to be a leader... but the appointment still came as a surprise. “I was shocked,” she said, having previously applied unsuccessfully for both the South Australia and the NSW police commissioner jobs. “I figured I had a lot knowledge and skills,

experience and exposure. My father was the one who encouraged me to think about Victoria. “I never thought a NSW police officer would get to be the police commissioner in Victoria. “It was very public, very high profile; it was a tricky job.” And the support of her father wasn’t always there. When she decided to enter the NSW police force aged 19, it was against his will. “In those days there were very few opportunities,” she said, with the job choices for women mainly secretarial, nursing or teaching. “University was out of the question for many reasons,” she said. “I wasn’t really taken by the options and my father was a police officer. And I was tall enough, just.” She had to wait several months before she was accepted in October 1972. In those days the NSW police had a quota of only 130 women. There were many highs

and a few low points in her outstanding career. “Few women are in high-profile roles, so you are very likely to attract a lot of attention and a lot of heat,” Ms Nixon said. “Until we get to a point where a woman in a senior position is not anything unusual, and I think we are a long way from there, then you know you are going to get criticised. Part of it is knowing it’s going to happen. Sometimes you have stuffed it up and sometimes you are just being blamed.” Working Monday to Friday has finally stopped for Ms Nixon after 38 years on the police force and 15 months working as Chair of the Victorian Bushfire Reconciliation and Recovery Authority. But that doesn’t mean she has stopped working per se. She took her own advice of thinking about what was going to happen next before she made the decision to leave the force.

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SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

PROFILE STORY

with much more to do ‘‘

... but I did know lots about people who are poor and need support “I decided I wanted to be involved in some not-for-profit organisations and I thought I would sit on some boards, perhaps for companies,” Ms Nixon said. “I also decided that I knew a lot about women’s leadership, and I wanted to encourage women to think about taking up management and leadership positions.” Most recently, she completed the role of Chair of the national organisation Good Shepherd Microfinance, which she started in 2012. The sisters of Good Shepherd of Australia and New Zealand wanted a much greater focus on their no-interest loans, and they asked Ms Nixon

Former Victorian police commissioner Christine Nixon reflects on the tragic Bourke Street attack, six months on. Photo: Aaron Francis to set up the organisation and chair the board. “I told them I didn’t know a lot about microfinance, but I did know lots about people who are poor and need support and shouldn’t be

exploited,” she said, with the organisation now providing about 30,000 loans a year. “The loans are available to anyone across Australia who are pensioners,” she said

proudly. Ms Nixon’s current roles are chair of Monash College in Melbourne and a councillor and deputy chancellor at Monash University. She also leads conversations on

women’s leadership as a result the Women Leading book she co-wrote with Professor Amanda Sinclair and presents to conferences and events on organisational change. She has about 18 months to go on current commitments and then will turn her focus back to advocating for reducing violence against women. “While I was in the police, I spent a lot of time working with community organisations about family violence,” she said. “I am also a patron of Family Violence Centre and I am on the university advisory group.” Ms Nixon’s life is anything but ordinary, yet the way she has coped with the stresses of life in the past and present is not dissimilar to many of us. In Sydney, her ageing father of 92 is steadfastly still living at home since losing his wife to dementia three years ago. Ms Nixon’s brother lives nearby, and she talks to her father daily and visits often. “You have to do some thinking about the future

but certainly I know a vast amount of people finish up dying in their own homes, not in a nursing home,” she said. Her life at home in a country town outside of Melbourne is happily filled with mosaics, painting and drawing. The backyard has two sheds: one for her creative work and another for her husband John Becquet’s work on technology interests. “What has driven us where we are now is a need for a community around us,” she said. It’s giving her the chance to become reconnected to people, something she really values. Ms Nixon recognises we are all living in a state of flux but that doesn’t mean that people like herself can’t still effect positive change. She has chosen not to go down the politics pathway, but instead use her leadership skills and community awareness to help create positive change elsewhere during what she calls the next phase of her life.

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NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Change path to health Start out with a hoop at home to combine fun with fitness Alison Houston IF YOU’RE thinking it’s time to make your lifestyle a little brighter and healthier, Toowoomba Regional Council’s free and low-cost CHANGE project has a huge range of possibilities for all ages and fitness levels. Launching the spring-summer directory with a hula hooping session highlighted the diversity on offer and got everyone laughing and breathing. Toowoomba Regional Council Parks and Recreation portfolio leader Cr Joe Ramia said that while it might sound like child’s play, hula hooping (which has been around since 1958) also had benefits for adults. “Hula Hooping is a great, low-impact activity for strengthening and toning in a fun and social environment,” he said. Melanie Siegel, from Hoop Groove Move, offers the CHANGE project for

adults at 11.30am Wednesdays at Queens Park, giving participants of all abilities an introduction to hooping and guiding them through challenges and tricks on how to “hoop at home”. She said it was a great all-over body workout, from exercising your brain to massaging your internal organs, improving cardio, fitness, building core strength, as well as increasing energy and happiness. For Seniors, it has been shown to be easy on the joints, increase mobility, flexibility and muscle tone and strength, while learning new hoop skills improves cognitive function, particularly when working across both hands and moves that cross your body mid-line. But if, like me, you have never been able to hula hoop, there is a lot more to CHANGE, including pages of gentle exercise, walking groups and specifically seniors activities alongside those

HOOPLA: Councillor Geoff McDonald, centre, surrounded by Shenaed Bliss, Cr James O’Shea, Melanie Siegel from Hoop Groove Move, and “ring-in Senior” Helen French, from Mount Pleasant. Photo: COURTESY TRC for other family members. They also include exercises that can be modified to individual health needs and abilities, and lifestyle alternatives such as

details of bushcare groups and community gardens. New providers are also running circuit classes three days a week at Crows Nest Indoor Sports

Centre and chair yoga, allowing you to stretch painful muscles in safety, weekly at Highfields Sport and Recreation Centre and Crows Nest Community and RSL

Centre. For more information and to view the full range of CHANGE project activities go to tr.qld.gov.au/change or call 131 872.

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Captain leads the way

VIPs saddle up for charity Alison Houston

GETTING behind the charity foundation of legendary 54-year-old former Aussie cricket captain Steve Waugh, 16 Toowoomba residents last month broke the world record for static cycling and raised $22,000. Led by Michael Aspinall at World Gym Toowoomba, the team rode for 30 hours, with just a 15-minute break every three hours, to trounce the previous 27-hour record and get the Captain’s Ride of the Toowoomba region off to a fantastic start. Michael is one of 69 riders joining Waugh (captain from 1997–2004) in covering about 850km over six days from November 4–9, including more than 8000 vertical metres. Heading from Toowoomba to Bunya Mountains, back to Toowoomba, Warwick and Boonah, they will finish at the Gold Coast’s Mt Tamborine. VIPs on the ride include gold medal-winning cyclist Anna Meares, British Olympic decathlon champion Daly Thompson, former Kookaburras captain Mark Knowles, Paralympic skier Michael Milton, soccer legend Craig Johnston and Aussie batting great Matt Hayden. According to Waugh, each kilometre raises vital funding and awareness for rare

LEADING THE WAY: Michael Aspinall encourages the other riders as he leads Toowoomba’s Guinness World Record attempt at World Gym, raising funds for the Steve Waugh Foundation. Photo: BEV LACEY

‘‘

No one should have to stand alone, everyone needs a team to support them. physical and mental conditions in children. He has credited his wife’s stroke in 2006 with showing him that anyone’s life can change at any moment, additional inspiration for the work

his foundation does for kids and their families. He said the challenges faced by the riders aimed to “in some way replicate what our kids and families go through each and every day” and foster the idea that “no one should have to stand alone, everyone needs a team to support them”. Waugh was also attending a special charity Long Lunch at Fitzy’s on October 31, talking about his career as well as the foundation. The event was organised by McGrath real estate, with chief executive Geoff Lucas, auctioneer Max Wylie and Toowoomba franchisee Toby Sandell also taking to their bikes for the ride. A number of lucky locals

also had the chance to dine with Waugh, Thompson and meet rock star Suzi Quatro at a special Empire Theatre event on November 2. The public is encouraged to wave the riders on each day and lend support through donations but organisers have said there is no guarantee of meeting Waugh and his crew on their trip, with much depending on weather and the riders’ progress each day. To donate or find out more about the Steve Waugh Foundation, go to www.stevewaugh foundation.com.au/ the-captains-ride or phone 1300 669 935.

Steve Waugh in action prior to his November 4–9 Captain's Ride.

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SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

NEWS

FEATURE STORY

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

‘Yes’ to a life of huge challenges

IMMENSITY: The vastness of the Antarctic made Syd Kirkby feel small as he set out with his dogs, sledges and two comrades. Photo:

Courtesy of Syd Kirkby.

Legendary surveyor’s awesome achievements Alison Houston

THE universal reaction to first experiencing Antarctica is “awe and wonder”, according to one of the country’s trailblazers, Syd Kirkby AO MBE. The 86-year-old retired surveyor, recognised by the Australian Museum as one of our 50 greatest explorers and by The Australian newspaper as one of our 10 greatest adventurers, said he had seen people “actually incapacitated by awe, they were just so overwhelmed by the grandeur, scale and magnificence”. And despite wintering (1956-57, 1960-61 and 1979-81) and summering there (1961-62, 1962-63 and 1964-65 and 1979-80) as part of Australia’s Antarctic program, undertaking extensive sledging journeys for exploration and mapping, and returning in later years with tourists, he said Antarctica remained fascinating and incomparable. Syd is recorded as having explored and mapped more of the Australian Antarctic Territory than anyone else – much of it by dogsled in temperatures to minus 70 degrees Celsius. He established the most easterly, westerly and southerly astrofixes in the Australian Antarctic

Territory and with two comrades became the first and only people to explore the Prince Charles Mountains on the ground more than 60 years ago. While he has not personally noticed any climate-related environmental changes over the years in Antarctica, he said “it behoves us to treat the planet with complete circumspection and care because that is the right thing to do” rather than continuing with our “profligate and careless use of resources”. Living on the edge Syd said he had never felt any enmity or opposition from the continent, as some people articulated, but it was certainly not an environment to be taken lightly. He recalled winds so strong they had picked up and blown a cable-tied DC3 plane over 12km, and spending months in a 2m x 1.5m tent, hundreds of miles from Mawson station, with just a handful of dogs and two comrades, knowing that a simple tear in the fabric could mean they perished. “Knowing there is no salvation except as a result of your efforts and those of your two comrades is a very privileged feeling,” he said, comparing it to the bond of fellow soldiers or those united by natural disaster. He said he had learnt a

Heart

lot “as a 22-year-old kid” working with former Second World War servicemen including Battle of Britain veterans during his first winter in Antarctica. “They knew themselves, and they knew about bravery and honour and comradeship,” he said. “To run like billy-oh trying to keep up with those men and then realise after a few months that they treated you just like one of them was pretty heady stuff … mind you, you’re not like them at all.” However, Syd had fought his own battles to be there. He overcame childhood polio and being told he would never walk again through his own determination and his father’s dedication and gruelling exercise regime. Syd described the comradeship between sledgers as “probably closer than most family relationships”, because so much time was spent in complete dependence on each other, traversing terrain knowing that “no feet have ever been where your feet are”. Working with the sledge dogs, which he described as “wonderful and beautiful animals”, he said was also a privilege, although “a fairly sweaty and hardworking privilege”. However, he admitted it was also a gruesome

Syd Kirkby in the Australian Antarctic Territory. Photo: Courtesy of USC activity. “It was dirty, filthy, brutal, and often a death sentence for the dogs, but it worked at a time and place when nothing else would,” he said. Although in his earliest expeditions about 85 per

Award-winning portrait of Syd Kirkby by Tom Macbeth. Photo: Courtesy of Tom Macbeth

cent of Antarctica was unexplored, Syd does not see himself as an adventurer, with the label “explorer” sitting more comfortably with him. “An adventurer is someone who does things for the gratification of the

thrill; I and the people I worked with are some of the most rational people on Earth – you have to be to survive,” he said. But having worked in both Antarctica and, at the other extreme, in the Great Sandy Desert with

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SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

FEATURE STORY

A long sea voyage on very rough seas in a small ship meant not being sick was a major preoccupation for about 10 days journeying to Antarctica, Syd Kirkby said. Photo:

Courtesy of Syd Kirkby.

‘‘

I have practically never seen anyone not ennobled by Antarctica and Antarctic service

some of the last Aborigines living completely traditional tribal lifestyles in the 1950s, he said: “I have certainly been blessed to work in wondrous places”. Places which bring out the best in people.

“I have practically never seen anyone not ennobled by Antarctica and Antarctic service,” Syd said. “It demands a great deal of you and you step up to that – you look at your comrades as giants,

and they are tough as goats’ knees yet as concerned as any mother.” He recalled his team running beside or behind the sledge typically 20 nautical miles (38km) a day – on one memorable occasion covering 67 nautical miles (123km) because they were heading home. ■ The Antarctic Treaty and Honours Syd spoke to Seniors newspapers prior to a lecture on The Getting of Australian Antarctica at the University of the Sunshine Coast in association with Royal Geographical Society of Queensland. Australia’s Antarctic

Syd Kirkby said he did not see himself as an adventurer but an explorer. Photo: Courtesy of Australian Museum territory covers nearly 5.9 million sq km, about 42 per cent of Antarctica and 80 per cent of the total area of Australia itself – as Syd said, “a serious bit of real estate”. However, what he marvels at is that Australia gained this land at a time when we still only existed as a colony. He regards the 1959

Antarctic Treaty as “remarkable”, its essence contained in a few short lines in Clause 4, which states that no unilateral action by any power will affect existing territorial claims. That ensures there can be no “territorial ructions” or power plays, as feared in the Cold War days and just as likely during

today’s political turmoil, to put the land or the scientific work carried out there in peril. And for Syd, that is paramount. “I’m intensely aware of my good fortune … It’s been a great life,” he said, adding a salute to the wives and families who had made it possible for all those who worked in Antarctica “doing these hair-brained and immensely dangerous things” at a time when it was very unusual for women to have to cope with raising a family on their own. “And the majority did it bloody brilliantly,” he said. They and all his fellow comrades and mentors, he said, stand beside him every time he talks about or accepts an award for his work in Antarctica. Syd has been honoured with a number of Antarctic landmarks in his name – Mount Kirkby, Kirkby Glacier, Kirkby Shoal and Kirkby Head – and following the Polar Medal (1958) and his MBE (1966), was awarded in 2018 both an Order of Australia Medal and the Australian Geographic Society’s highest honour

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Community notes

Community group guide WE WELCOME your community news and photos, If you would like to submit a photo, ensure it is at least 180dpi or 500kb to 1mb in size and of faces, in a nice bright setting. Email editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au.

DAY BUS TRIP

THE bus leaves Toowoomba for Dolphins Leagues Club, Redcliffe on the third Tuesday of the month. Cost $30. Phone 07 4634 3751 or 0418 878 867 for further details.

TOOWOOMBA QUILTERS CLUB INC

RESIDENTS and staff at the Canossa Wing invited Toowoomba Quilters Club representatives for morning tea on Thursday, October 17 to acknowledge their generous gift of 16 quilts to the St Vincent’s Care Services secure dementia unit. A staff member, Janita, had approached the Quilters Club about quilts for residents during the club’s recent annual Quilt Exhibition at the Salo Centre during Carnival of Flowers week. Helen, from St Vincent’s Care Services (formerly Lourdes Home), thanked Toowoomba Quilters Club members on behalf of Canossa Wing residents while expressing appreciation for their creative skills and generosity. During morning tea residents were keen to choose a quilt for their own bed. Viewers Choice Quilts winners announced: Visitors to the recent Toowoomba Quilters Club annual Quilt Exhibition at the Salo Centre in Rome Street during September’s 70th Carnival of Flowers week were invited to choose their favourite Large Quilt and their favourite Small Quilt /Item from the many on display. This year the Club member whose quilt received the most Viewers Choice votes for a Large Quilt was Carol Bateman. Her quilt, ‘Spectacular Springtime’, featured red waratahs and bottlebrush with green leafy borders. Some 3-D waratah flower blocks, highlighted by the custom quilting design, made it a spectacular quilt. In second place was

Beryl Mayes’ quilt ‘Bubbles for Kylie’, a large quilt for her daughter. An Encouragement Award was won by Lynne Pemberton for her ‘Remembrance’ quilt made for her son who serves in the Australian Army. First Viewers Choice winner in the Small Quilt/Item section was Lee Hicks’ ‘Block within a Block’ quilt. Visitors were invited to turn this quilt upside down to reveal its alternate 3-D look. Many people were fascinated by it. Jan Greville’s small quilt of a wolf titled ‘Winter is Coming’ was runner-up. Third place was awarded to Rhonda Cyznski for her ‘Patchwork Jacket’. Rhonda looks forward to wearing her new jacket. Congratulations to all our worthy winners. Thank you to all our exhibition visitors who voted for their favourite quilt and small item. Most people walk away saying “it was so difficult to choose just one”. And it always is!

NATIONAL SENIORS AUSTRALIA

Garden City — Toowoomba THE last meeting for 2019 for Garden City–Toowoomba National Seniors will be held at the Drayton Bowls Club on Monday, November 18. It will commence at 9.30am with a special meeting to pass the new Branch Constitution. This will be followed by morning tea before we continue with the morning’s meeting and guest speakers. It has been customary at this last meeting each year to have our own members as guest speakers and to test our abilities with a left/right game. Visitors welcome. Cost $7. Our branch Christmas Party is on Monday, December 2. Members need to book for catering purposes. For more information, phone Hazel on 07 4635 4519.

ARTY CRAFTERS: At the presentation of 16 quilts to St Vincent’s Care Services are Lyn Lloyd, Toowoomba Quilter’s club president; Lee Hicks, TQ Community Quilting co-ordinator; Fay Suley, TQ Secretary; Janita, St Vincent’s Care Services staff member and Lesley Ellevsen, TQ vice-president.

Lee Hicks’ ‘Block in a Block’. The artwork won Viewers Choice Small Items at the Quilt Exhibition held on September 21–27 in Toowoomba. Toowoomba WE HOLD our morning teas the first Thursday of each month at All Seasons Function Centre, cnr. North and Tor streets, Wilsonton, commencing at 9.30am. On November 7, representatives from Prostate will give a talk. Our first morning tea for 2020 will be February 6, which is our annual donation to Adopt a Room at the Hospice. December 5 will be our Christmas luncheon. We have monthly bus trips third Thursday of the month, next one will be February 20, 2020. For information, phone Desma on 07 4613 6750.

SINGING FOR STANTHORPE

A GOLD Coast community choir wants to raise the roof and plenty of funds for drought-stricken communities out west. Stanthorpe has a special place in the hearts of the members of Fasolati, a fun contemporary choir based on the Gold Coast. That was where four friends, who were visiting Stanthorpe for the

weekend in 2011, found themselves breaking into song in a pub late one evening, encouraged by the patrons, as the band was packing up for the night. On the spur of the moment, they decided to call themselves Fasolati, taking the name from the well-known tonal scale Do Rem Mi Fa Sol La Ti Do, which was taken from a hymn chanted at vespers during the Middle Ages. Once home, the friends persuaded music teacher and musical director for many theatre productions on the Gold Coast, Mary Walters, to take up the challenge and form a choir comprising many other friends who love singing and who wish to do it well. Seven years on, the choir numbers around 35 members and Mary, with conductor Anne Ryan, is presenting a concert on the Gold Coast to raise funds for water supplies for families in the Stanthorpe region. Concert numbers include Lloyd Webber’s The Prayer (popularized by Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli) and The Lion King favourite Can You Feel The

This year the TQ Club member whose quilt received the most Viewers Choice votes for a Large Quilt was Carol Bateman, with Spectacular Springtime. Love Tonight, as well as Lied an die Freude (Ode to Joy), the Russian hymn Tebye Poyem, Vivaldi’s Gloria, Annies Song, Bridge over Troubled Water and All that Jazz. Fasolati performs at 3.30pm on Sunday, November 24, in St

Peter’s Anglican Church, corner of Southport Nerang Rd and High St, Southport. Admission is free and donations are requested in aid of drought relief. The concert will conclude with cheese and wine around 4.30pm.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

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NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

What's on

Music, markets and celebrations GOING FOR BAROQUE

SKILLED period ensemble Brisbane Baroque Players will inspire Toowoomba music lovers with sounds from a bygone era at St Luke’s Anglican Church (Herries St) on Saturday, November 9. Entitled Bellissima!, the concert will feature historically informed pieces of baroque music including Vivaldi’s Lute Concerto played on period instruments, including the harpsichord, lute and myriad other baroque stringed instruments. Tickets $20 and $15 concession. Go to www. trybooking.com/BGDKD or tickets available at the door on the night (door sales cash only).

Alison Houston

NATIONAL GEO EXHIBIT

THE National GEO Exhibit showcasing stunning photographs through the lens of Australian Geographic’s acclaimed 30-year anniversary book, A Portrait of Australia, is on at the Cobb+Co Museum. The Cobb+Co Museum is the first venue for this exhibition, which is on until Sunday, November 24. The exhibit celebrates the bush, the outback, the coast and the people who live there through the pictures that capture some of the most rugged and remote parts of the country. These are the places where you can discover the remarkable stories of ordinary Australians. It is free with museum admission. Go to www.cobbandco. qm.qld.gov.au or phone 07 4659 4900.

LAZY GRAZERS

NOTHING to do with sheep or cattle. Grazing the Granite Belt aims to help Stanthorpe recover from drought and a post-bushfire tourism downturn. This is a delicious foodie experience that will see you visit 10 award-winning Granite Belt wineries by buses that loop around the trail. If you fancy a tasty and relaxed Sunday breakfast, then that is also available along with other food menus to taste, while sampling wines. What a great way to support the region. Go to www.granitebelt winecountry.com.au/ grazing or phone 07 4684 1226.

BUSH CHRISTMAS

THE 23rd Annual Bush Christmas exhibition is on again for Christmas gift and gourmet shoppers. It will take place over 10 days from November 27 to December 6. The Bush Christmas began when a group of western Queensland women created an event to showcase the amazing

HANDMADE UNDER THE STARS

BUSH TALENTS: Bush Christmas exhibition organiser Liz McClymont amid the host of artisan art, crafts and gourmet goods available during a past event, as she prepares for this year’s 23rd annual celebration of all things handmade for 10 days from November 27 to December 6. Photo: Kevin Farmer creations of our talented rural and remote artisans. Gourmet Christmas hampers are a specialty, filled with delicious handmade products. At the Masonic Centre, 58 Neil St, Toowoomba.

TWILIGHT MARKET

HAND Made Under the Stars on Thursday, November 28, is described as “the ultimate twilight shopping experience”. You will find more than 50 quality market stalls, fabulous food and wine, music and mouth-watering gourmet tastings. With products sold by the maker, this is your opportunity to chat directly with the artisans. Entry is free. Weather is no problem as the event is undercover. For more, go to www.cobbandco.qm. qld.gov.au or phone 07 4659 4900.

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS

EVERYONE is invited to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at Toowoomba’s Christmas in the CBD at City Hall from 6–8pm on Thursday, November 28. There will be

entertainment, including the Helen Earley Ensemble, Harlaxton RSL Brass Band and Toowoomba Cheerleaders. Santa’s arrival is planned for 7pm. And don’t miss out on your chance to witness the glittering lighting of City Hall before the sleigh departs for Grand Central’s Christmas tree lighting in Central Square at 7.40pm. Phone 13 18 72 for more details. This is just the start of Christmas events around the region, so don’t miss out and keep a look out for your local carols and celebrations. Upcoming carol events include Hodgson Vale on November 29, Kingsthorpe and Millmeran on November 30, and Cecil Plains, Oakey, Peacehaven and Nobby on December 7.

scholarships for the Toowoomba Hospital, Baillie Henderson Hospital and Mt Lofty Heights Nursing Home. This year’s run is on Sunday, December 1. Look out for details, go to www.toowoomba hospitalfoundation.org.au or phone 07 4616 6211.

REINDEER RUN

CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND

JOIN Rudolph and the gang for Toowoomba Hospital Foundation’s annual charity run at Baillie Henderson Hospital. The foundation helps to fund equipment, services and programs as well as staff development, research and

COUNTRY HEART

TOOWOOMBA’S Country Heart Christmas Market returns from December 6–8 raising money for charity. The market gives you a perfect opportunity to browse the handmade craft, buy Christmas gifts and let the grandkids enjoy the children’s entertainment. It’s at Glennie Junior School Hall, 263–269 Herries St, Newtown. Go to www.countryheart events.com or phone 0488 404 637.

TOOWOOMBA’S Christmas Wonderland is one of Queensland’s biggest light extravaganzas. It’s on again from 7–10pm on Saturday, December 7–24. Whether you still love the magic of Christmas

lights yourself or want to take the grandkids, this is a wonderful event not to be missed. For those who are new to town, this is a traditional Christmas lights display covering about four acres in the Botanical Gardens at Queens Park, Lindsay St, Toowoomba. There is something new and special to enjoy each year. Entry is by gold coin donation. Funds raised go to local charities. Go to www.christmas wonderland.com.au or phone 0400 357 206. Don’t forget to say a big thanks to organisers, the Lions Club of Toowoomba West.

MAYORAL CAROLS

THE annual Triple M Mayoral Carols by Candlelight at Queens Park. This is the perfect event to get you in the Christmas mood and it’s on Sunday, December 8. Fun, food and rides for the grandchildren plus Christmas markets start from 4pm, then pre-show entertainment from 5.30pm. The carols start from 6.30pm. It will all finish with a spectacular fireworks display for the whole family at 8.15pm.

THE Twilight Artisan Market is its ninth year and this year we have plenty of new talented artisans selling their wares, plus old favourites. See an incredible range of beautiful, locally made, functional products on show. There will be a gourmet tasting area with chocolate, cheese, wine, olives and other produce, as well as live music from Mason Watts. Grab a glass of wine under the stars and explore the best the region has to offer for one night only. On Thursday, November 28, from 3.30–8pm. Free event at Cobb+Co Museum, 27 Lindsay St, Toowoomba. Go to www. cobbandco.qm.qld.gov.au.

GRANITE BELT TOUR

ENJOY a day out with family and friends while supporting the Granite Belt and Toowoomba Hospice on Saturday, November 16. Price is $75, includes morning tea, lunch and coach travel. Visiting: Rumbalara Estates Wines, Ballandean Estates Wines, Masons Wine and Castle Glen Sutton’s Juice Factory. Departs 7am Toowoomba Hospice (57b O’Quinn St). Pick-up point: 7.15am Stenner St (old post office). Return to old post office 5.45pm and Toowoomba Hospice 6pm (approx). Bookings on 07 4659 8500.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

NEWS

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IN BRIEF

RETIREMENT LIVING PEOPLE AND PLACES

NATIONAL NEWS ThomsonAdsett has welcomed Simon Drysdale as group director – Seniors Living. Simon is extremely passionate about challenging the status quo within this sector and delving into the key issues around ‘longer living’. Simon will spearhead innovative design in retirement living and aged care across all of ThomsonAdsett’s Australian and international studios. He brings more than two decades of experience to ThomsonAdsett, having delivered a range of projects from the small and bespoke to large greenfield urban interventions. Simon has worked on various scales of retirement living and residential aged care projects across Australia and overseas. Simon’s new role with ThomsonAdsett, along with his ongoing association with RMIT University, enables him to continue his love of mentoring new talent, create practical industry research outcomes and deliver a genuine “do better” attitude in seniors living design.

ACCREDITATION SCHEME

THE new, unified accreditation scheme for retirement community owners and operators, is open for business. ARVAS is designed to be supported by the Retirement Living Code of Conduct, forming a new and robust quality framework for the operation of retirement communities. ARVAS is co-owned by two organisations representing the retirement living sector, the Property Council of Australia and Leading Age Services Australia (LASA), and operated on their behalf by Quality Innovation Performance (QIP), an experienced not-for-profit provider of independent accreditation services. Retirement community owners and operators are encouraged to visit www.arvas.com.au for more information and to register for accreditation.

QUEENSLAND

■ LENDLEASE has unveiled the plans for the $270 million Bernborough Ascot precinct, Australia’s first vertical retirement community built on a racecourse and due for completion by mid-2020.

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Retirement style to suit yourself Marcus Riley POSITIVE Ageing advocate Marcus Riley is well aware that everyone has a different idea of what they want from retirement living and it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. Mr Riley shares five key considerations to help individuals determine the right retirement living option. 1. Plan Planning will involve considering some what-if scenarios which isn’t exactly a joy to ponder but by word it is well worth doing. It is about contemplating what is important to you, so that your personal priorities govern future decisions. Planning will help you maintain control, at a time where you are at greatest risk of having no control. 2. Preferences Individuals need to establish a criteria along with their personal preferences, that need to be met. For instance, consider location and ask yourself, Do I want to be somewhere I live now? Somewhere closer to my family? Do I want to live in the hustle and bustle of an urban area or by the seaside? Additionally, the range of services and amenities need to be considered to ensure that they are suited to individual needs and preferred lifestyle. Ask yourself if there is a good physical therapy program to help me maintain my mobility? Does the physical environment appeal to The precinct has been named after one of the nation’s greatest thoroughbred racehorses, Bernborough which from 1941 to 1946, achieved 15 consecutive victories including winning the Doomben 10,000 and Doomben Cup in the same year. Developed over four stages, Bernborough Ascot will offer 300 oversized independent living apartments and a wide range of private resort-style facilities. Bernborough Ascot will feature one, two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouse style homes with views and

lunch at Ballina RSL Club enjoying the beautiful ocean views, the group could not resist a photo opportunity at the Big Prawn. Diversional Therapist Pam Grieg said many residents were looking forward to the seafood most of all. A scenic drive along the NSW coast and through Byron Bay followed the iconic photo opportunity before checking in at Mantra Twin Towns Resort for the night. Paula Fahy, 92, relished the holiday experience. “When I went into aged care, I didn’t think I would be doing this! It’s been fantastic, and we’ve been very well looked after.”

NSW

BE AWARE: BallyCara CEO and positive ageing advocate, Marcus Riley discusses making choices. me? Is green space important to me? 3. Research I’d strongly urge individuals to speak with people who possess direct experience of a village which ideally would be residents and families, but could also be staff, GP or other service providers associated with the village. It is vital to obtain full details regarding fees and charges as they may vary from place to place and high-quality finishes including state-of-the-art kitchens, stainless steel appliances and stone bench tops. Prices start at $485,000 for a one-bedroom apartment and $1.4 million for a penthouse. Info: bernboroughascot.com. ■ AURA Holdings is celebrating the success of several projects and is standing out from the major players in the industry. The company is developing and managing six communities in Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast and Toowoomba, with another five in planning stages.

identify those ‘hidden costs’ as well. 4. Ask Do your own research and speak with people that live there and key staff members – this will allow you to check that the organisation is aligned to your own values. 5. Understand Be proactive and seek your own legal advice so that you are completely clear and confident with the terms and conditions of your purchase and Aura Holdings anticipates this will result in more than 800 apartments in the pipeline. ■ SEASONS Aged Care has just celebrated10 years of offering an alternative aged care model where autonomy meets care. It has grown from one community to eight, but it’s not the bricks and mortar growth that means the most to this values-based organisation. The Seasons story continues with construction underway on Seasons Mango Hill Stage 2 and land already purchased for new communities at Holland Park, Tugun and the

ongoing arrangements. This is something you want to be clear-cut from the start. Mr Riley is CEO of BallyCara, a charitable organisation and public benevolent institution which provides accommodation, health, and care services for older people as well as a range of support and advisory functions to service-based industries.

Beaudesert region. ■ BOLTON Clarke’s Centaur Memorial community at Caloundra residential aged care clients haven’t given up going on holidays. Recently they went on their second annual road trip, this time to the Gold Coast, Ballina and Byron Bay. The 18 holiday-makers were accompanied by Bolton Clarke team members and volunteers. The annual holiday is a much-anticipated opportunity for bringing back memories and igniting the adventurous spirit in residents, many of whom are in their 90s. Following their day-one

LOVE is in the air at Mission Australia’s Benjamin Short Grove, as the aged care facility celebrates the engagement of two residents, Tim and Lynn. The couple is the first residents to become engaged at any of Mission Australia’s three aged care facilities, and the charity has marked the occasion with a celebratory engagement party. Tim and Lynn met at Benjamin Short Grove when Tim moved into the aged care facility in 2018. While the couple didn’t bond immediately, Tim’s support for Lynn during a difficult time in her life brought the pair together. The couple were engaged just a few months later. The couple’s love was celebrated at an engagement party organised by Mission Australia. Residents, friends and family enjoyed a barbeue lunch in the aged care facility’s beautiful garden. . Opened in 2017, Benjamin Short Grove provides aged care for people experiencing homelessness and disadvantage in the Orange and Cabonne Shire regions. ■ IRT Group has received development approval for a staged redevelopment of IRT Culburra Beach Aged Care Centre, on the South Coast of NSW east of Nowra. The redevelopment will see the construction of a new 26-suite wing on the vacant land north of the aged care centre, and refurbishment of existing buildings. As part of this commitment IRT has held a number of resident collaborative design workshops to help shape plans for the outdoor landscaped areas of the site. More collaborative design workshops will be held with residents in the coming months.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

NEWS

Want to know more about aged care services, your entitlements and options?

Don’t miss our FREE Information Session!

Thursday 28 November 10am-12pm – Morning Tea Provided TOOWOOMBA CITY LIBRARY BUILDING Level 3, 155 Herries Street, Toowoomba Learn more about • How to start the My Aged Care process • Home Care Packages • Commonwealth Home Support Program • Funding options • Expectations and waitlists • Finding the right provider

Please call 1800 773 722 to RSVP

and assist us with catering numbers

www.prescare.org.au

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NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

The green behind the grey Alison Houston MARGARET McDonald is a pioneer of sorts – one of a relative handful of Australians who own fully electric cars. An RMIT ABC Fact Check report in June found just 0.2 per cent of new cars sold in Australia are electric and that we have the lowest sale rates of any developed OECD country. Concerned about the environmental future for her children and grandchildren, and inspired by attending last year’s Sydney’s Antidote Festival of Ideas, Action and Change, Margaret, from Erina on NSW’s Central Coast, took delivery of her new Hyundai Kona in August. She has also installed solar panels in her home and moved to a vegetarian diet three days a week in order to reduce her carbon footprint. The 74-year-old also demonstrated at the school climate change protest in The Domain, has reduced her air travel and become more aware of recycling. That includes never buying bottled water and rejecting takeaway coffee unless she has her “keep cup” with her. “I just think about my grandchildren and what an awful thing we are leaving for them,” Margaret said. With too many politicians having ignored the environmental consequences of fossil fuel reliance and the need to invest in alternatives, she said she believed it was up to every individual

GREEN ADVENTURES: Margaret McDonald proudly takes delivery of her new electric car. to do what they could. Recognising the prudence of waiting until the cost of electric cars came down and there was greater infrastructure available, Margaret nevertheless decided that with limited driving years ahead, and change unlikely until more people purchase the cars, she would take the step to electric. “I feel a little glow when I go out, knowing I am not causing any pollution,” Margaret said. And she allows herself the occasional snigger as she watches the rising petrol prices to which she is now completely immune. Margaret also is electricity bill-free, with

the 20 solar panels she has installed in her home providing three times more electricity than she uses, and contributing back to the grid. But she admits the initial outlay for both the panels and the car were significant, and a lot more planning is currently required to travel long distances to ensure a suitable recharging stop is available. Margaret said her SUV-style Kona was about $65,000, but has a far greater range (450km) than the smaller alternative Ioniq (230km). With a charger installed in her garage, she has not had a problem getting around the Coast – only recharging twice in five

weeks – but decided in September to test out a longer distance, driving to Bacchus Marsh in Victoria to visit her sister – a round trip of 2288km. She discovered the Plugshare app which allowed her to type in the vehicle make and her destination and showed all suitable charging stations along the route. Much like mobile phones, she said, not all chargers suit all cars, with many aimed at the more expensive Tesla brand. She explained there were three ways to charge an electric car: a DC fast-charger takes 30-60 minutes depending on how low the battery is; an AC charger takes nine hours to fully charge; and

Photo: Alison Houston

the portable charger (suitable for any household socket) takes 24 hours to recharge. The NRMA has installed free DC fast-charging stations near parks and tourist information centres in country areas, and the RACV at highway service stations (requiring a ChargeFox App to use). However, Margaret said she was surprised to find large towns like Wagga Wagga and Goulburn did not have chargers to suit her car, while in Canberra you have to apply for a swipe card which can take 5-10 days. Another issue which Margaret hadn’t counted on was that the car’s range changes with the environment, so travelling

at higher speeds and climbing the escarpment from Nowra to Jugiong drained her battery far faster than general driving. “I was panic-stricken for a while,” she said, but remembered an article she had read and slowed her speed sufficiently to get to the charge point with about 50km to spare. “As I had drained the battery to such a low point, it took 60 minutes to re-charge so I took the opportunity to have a cup of coffee and lunch,” she said. She reflected that this was another bonus of the electric car, forcing her to take rest stops rather than continuing driving tired as she might otherwise have done. She did run into other problems on the way, including using the Victorian app, but said the return journey was uneventful as she had become accustomed to the process. “It was quite an adventure and a bit stressful at times but that is mostly to do with the lack of infrastructure,” Margaret said, with ranges of 170-265km between chargers. For everyday driving around the Coast, she said the electric car was comfortable, easy to use, so quiet she sometimes forgot it was running, and had no exhaust or heat from the engine. She has no regrets about her purchase, and says for the sake of a little extra planning and keeping an eye on the range, it is a positive step.

Phone solves problem for seniors BRAND INSIGHTS SOUTHERN Phone’s phone-only solution for seniors is making waves in the industry. Next Home Phone took out the Innovation-SME category at this year’s Australian Communication Industry Awards — ACOMMS — which were held in August. Next Home Phone is the leading solution for seniors who just want to keep their home phone and their existing number in an NBN world that wants them to change. It allows them to keep their existing home phone without needing an internet connection.

This not only saves them the complexity of switching to NBN but also saves them money. “We are so proud to have won this industry innovation award,” said Southern Phone managing director David Joss. “The migration to NBN can be confronting for many and the change from a traditional home phone service to Voice over IP even more so. “Next Home Phone serves a need in the market by providing a solution for those who just want a home phone that is activated in minutes, is simple and well-priced.” Since 2002, Southern Phone has deliberately

‘‘

Next Home Phone allows seniors to keep their existing home phone without needing an internet connection. placed a strong business and service focus on older Australians who don’t want or need super-fast internet packages but are very keen to maintain

simple, affordable and reliable communications. Next Home Phone was developed not to win awards, but to solve a specific problem being faced by Australian seniors, which is having to implement a broadband connection just to maintain their home phone experience. “Southern Phone has a strong history of servicing the needs of Australian seniors,” Mr Joss said. “We’re very proud of this simple solution targeted at addressing such a clear need across Australian communities.” For more information about the Next Home Phone, go to southernphone.com.au or phone 13 14 64.

AWARD WINNER: Communications Alliance chief executive officer John Stanton (left) and Southern Phone Company managing director David Joss.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

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INTRODUCING OUR BRAND-NEW

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Premium quality homes with an extra dash of country style! We think you deserve to enjoy the best of the best at a price you can afford. That’s why we’ve created our fantastic new Signature Range. Our fabulous new country-chic home designs boast a list of extra special luxury inclusions such as coffered ceilings, timber wall panelling, bespoke flooring, statement light fittings, feature wallpaper and upgraded kitchens plus so much more – all for no extra cost! Where “WOW” is a standard inclusion, our Signature Range homes start from an incredibly low $395,000. This amazing price buys you a brand-new luxury home PLUS access to award-winning recreational facilities. We build homes that you will LOVE with a reputation that you can TRUST. Come live the dream at Living Gems.

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Departs: 29/04/20

• 4 Nights Coffs Harbour • 3 Nights Hunter Valley • Nambucca Heads Seafood Cruiseq • Dorrigo Rainforest Centre & Skywalk • Moonshadow Cruise, Nelson Bay • Fighter World • Hunter Valley Christmas Light Spectacular & New Year’s Eve Fireworks

• 2 Nights Ballarat • 3 Nights Melbourne • Dubbo Zoo • Puffing Billy Steam & Cuisine Lunch • Ballarat Begonia Festival & Grand Parade • Old Gippstown • Gippsland Lake Cruise • Omeo & Great Alpine Road

• 4 Nights Coffs Harbour • Waterfall Way Sightseeing • Dorrigo Rainforest Centre & Skywalk • Trail Bay Gaol, South West Rocks • Bowraville Folk Museum • Harbourside Markets • Butterfly House • Clog Barn

• 3 Nights Albury • Bright Autumn Festival • Benalla Wall Art • Heartbeat of the Murray Laser Show • Silo Art Trail • Grampians Sightseeing • Twelve Apostles • Great Ocean Road • National Wool Museum, Geelong

• 2 Nights Innamincka & Marree • Cameron Corner • Depot Glen & Pooles Grave • Millparinka • Trilby Station • Burke & Wills Dig Tree • Lake Eyre Sightseeing • Birdsville Pub

Adult: $4698 Single Supplement: $1600

Adult: $4998 Single Supplement: $1423

Adult: $2198 Single Supplement: $483

Adult: $4726 Single Supplement: $1176

Adult: $5795 Single Supplement: $1129

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

Departs: 18/06/20

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

www.facebook.com/downundercoachtours

Freecall number before 31st December 2019 and receive a 5% discount on any 2020 tour.

Early Bird Terms & Conditions: To qualify for Early Bird Discount a $500 deposit is required within seven days of booking. Early bird discount is not combinable with any other oﬀer or discount. sn0919

FULLY ACCOMMODATED TOURS

Prices quoted are per person twin share

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Travel options for you

NATURE’S BLISS IN KARUIZAWA

As night falls, you can hear the clatter of guests donning their yukata and geta clogs, making their way for a soak in the meditation bath — a peaceful and spiritual experience where you can sharpen your senses. A limited offer is available for three-night stays from October to December. Info: hoshinoya.com/ karuizawa/en.

LOCATED just 90 minutes by train from Tokyo is the mountainside resort Hoshinoya Karuizawa. Be enchanted by the crisp, clean air and the soft sounds of the surrounding forest. It is rich in greenery and life, and the Picchio Wildlife Research Center (located next door) runs numerous nature walks and tours for you to spot some magnificent bird species. Onsen in Japan is appreciated for its therapeutic value. You can melt away your worries at two onsens located on the premises. At the foot of the mountain is Tombu no yu, where you can relax in both an indoor and open-air bath while taking in the spectacular view.

FLINDERS RANGES TOUR

FLINDERS Ranges Odysseys has launched a new three-day Flinders Ranges Outback Tour beginning April 3, 2020. This twice-weekly tour offers exclusive accommodation and incredible food and wine, all while discovering the spectacular and rugged scenery of Wilpena Pound

JAPAN BLISS: Hoshinoya Karuizawa's rice terrace. and the magnificent Flinders Ranges. Departing from Adelaide, guests will explore the 540 million-year-old Flinders Ranges in air-conditioned Mercedes Benz vehicles, in small, intimate groups of up to eight and accompanied by a local

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW

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

TASSIE CROQUET DEvILS TOUR From

$3,695* ENgLISh BLOSSOM TOUR IS FULLY ESCORTED EX BRISBANE

$7,035*

per person Twin Share Ex BNE Single supplement $1,385

$2,225* ChRISTMAS IN JULY NORFOLK ISLAND From

$2,080*

13 - 25 MAY 2020 Highlights include Great Dixter House, Sissinghurst Castle, Chelsea Flower Show, Leeds Castle, Canterbury, Bath, Cotswolds, Abbey House Malmesbury & much more! Includes return airfares, 10 nights quality hotels, 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches & 6 dinners, all touring & entry fees.

per person Twin Share Ex BNE Single supplement From $390

$2,995

per person Twin Share Ex BNE Single supplement $340

SENSATIONAL SINgAPORE WITh SINgAPORE gARDEN FESTIvAL ESCORTED EX BRISBANE

$4,745*

20 - 27 JUNE 2020

Go See Touring invites players & spectators to join us on Norfolk Island in June 2020 for the 6th Convict’s Cup Social Croquet event. This is a social golf croquet doubles event and it doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or an expert - it’s all about having fun. You’ll play on the oldest sporting pitch in the Southern hemisphere that is still in use. With stunning Norfolk Island as the backdrop to this week of friendly competition, there will be sightseeing, lots of fun and laughter! We hope you can join us!

FIELD OF LIGHT EXTENDED

THE Field of Light at Uluru has been extended indefinitely. The exhibition called Tili Wiru Tjuta Nyakutjaku, or

11 - 18 JULY 2020

NORFOLK ISLAND A LITTLE BIT COUNTRY ESCORTED EX BRISBANE

From

Join us on this escorted Tassie Croquet Devils 9 day tour and visit beautiful Tasmania where you can indulge in history, visit stunning wilderness areas and enjoy some delicious food and wines. Combine the fun and friendship of hitting through the hoops with some wonderful touring when we travel to Tasmania in 2020. Why not join the fun!

Want to enjoy the festive season twice this year? Spend a week on Norfolk Island with its stunning scenery, sandy beaches and jagged cliffs. There is so much to see and do – and all at your own pace. We’ve included some great accommodation options, a hire car so you can explore, some fabulous tours that you won’t want to miss, plus plenty more to do on the Island. Enjoy a festive delicious Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings, fun trivia and Carols at Paradise Hotel & Resort. Chase away those winter blues and have some fun. Call us now to secure your accommodation.

per person Twin Share Ex BNE Single supplement From $485

From

14 - 22 MARCh 2020

per person Twin Share Ex BNE, Single supplement $770

NORFOLK ISLAND CROQUET From

IMAGINE a Coach Tour that combines the history and culture of Melbourne with the spectacular scenic beauty of the Dandenong Ranges and the Great Ocean Road. This is Coastal Variety Tours 13-day trip to the Melbourne International Flower and Garden show which departs March 21, 2020, including home pick-ups from the

Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and Gold Coast. This tour will take you via the Pacific Hwy to Coffs Harbour, Sydney, NSW south coast, Bega and Lakes Entrance, arriving at Melbourne for the Southern Hemisphere’s largest and most-loved horticultural event – the international flower and garden show. Your Melbourne tour is not complete without experiencing the beautiful mountain scenery while travelling aboard the Puffing Billy Stream Train and spectacular Great Ocean Road. There’s more to this tour and it’s well worth discovering for yourself by phoning Coastal Variety Tours for the full itinerary on 07 33436722

per person Twin Share Ex BNE Single supplement $1,380

18 - 25 JULY 2020

Join Fortunato Isgro or Lindsay (Waddo) Waddington for a fantastic week on Norfolk Island of Songs and laughter! A Little Bit Country on Norfolk Island 2020 sees a great line-up of performers taking to the stage. Graeme Hugo, Fortunato Isgro, Wayne Horsburgh and Lindsay (Waddo) Waddington will all perform at 3 big shows during the week. Plus plenty of time for you to enjoy beautiful Norfolk Island with its colourful history, lush greenery, stunning scenery and friendly locals. Enjoy delicious cuisine, tours, time to shop and explore and plenty of laughs along the way. Call us for more information!

20 - 27 JULY 2020

Join us when we visit the bi-annual world premier tropical garden and flower show - the 2020 Singapore Garden Festival. The festival showcases colourful and exciting garden designs with exquisite floral displays from over 50 designers and 19 countries. During the tour you’ll also visit the Botanic Gardens, National Orchid Gardens, have breakfast at the zoo, high tea at the iconic Raffles Hotel, visit the National Museum plus experience the exciting sights and sounds of Sentosa Island. Leisure time to explore further afield, shop ‘til you drop or lay by the pool. We’d love to have you with us when we travel to this beautiful multicultural city and its fabulous gardens. Space is limited.

TERMS & CONDITIONS *Price is per person Twin Share. Single Supplement applies. Credit card surcharges apply. Deposit of AUD $500-$800 per person is required to secure tour. Tour requires a minimum number of passengers to depart. Prices may ﬂuctuate if surcharges, fee, taxes or currency change. Prices current as at 31st October 2019. Go See Touring in conjunction with Norfolk Select Marketing ABN: 93 367 366 822 ATAS Accreditation A10619

6885061be

From

tour guide. Cost starts at $2242 per person, twin share and includes all accommodation, meals, morning pick-up and evening set-down at selected Adelaide CBD hotels, personalised touring, expert commentary from a local driver/guide, all entrance fees, special permits and all activities. Info: kangarooislandodysseys .com.au.

Hoshinoya Karuizawa's Mizunami Room in summer.

“looking at lots of beautiful lights” in local Pitjantjatjara, is made up of more than 50,000 slender stems crowned with radiant frosted-glass spheres over an area the size of nine football fields. Each evening, guests enjoy the Field of Light Uluru and each morning before sunrise, AAT Kings operates Field of Light Sunrise. Info: ayersrockresort.com.au/ fieldoflight.

MORE TOURS IN JANE GOODALL COLLECTION

G ADVENTURES has added its Dr Jane Goodall-endorsed collection of wildlife-focused tours for 2020 with 12 more adventures in Indonesia, Botswana, Belize, north-west USA, mainland Ecuador, the Arctic and Antarctic, and other destinations. All trips in the collection are endorsed by the UN Messenger of Peace,

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

ENCE! E A FINRSUR

. CL IN

VOTTE VO ED D

o.1.1 NNo

BEST VALUE SENIORS TOUR COMPANY

CAIRNS CHRISTMAS CAPERS

Cairns, Kuranda, Port Douglas, Mossman Gorge, Daintree River Cruise, Sky Rail, Reef Casino Xmas Lunch, Dundess Restaurant, Harbour Cruise *6 Days Tour Only $1,590, *8 Days with Return Rail Fare, QPC Economy Seat $1,640, QPC Deluxe Rail Bed $1,990, Sole Use Room Add $400, Departure Dates: 21 December

A GOLDEN COAST CHRISTMAS

Gold Coast, Broadwater Cruise, Mermaid Beach, Tweed River Cruise, Xmas Day Lunch at The Star Casino, Coolangatta, Byron Bay, Mt Tambourine, Lunch at St Bernards with magical views over the Gold Coast. 5 Days from $1,590, Single add $400 Departure Dates: 23 December

OUTBACK TRAVEL: Flinders Ranges's Wilpena Pound. whose institute protects endangered species through conservation strategies that incorporate the needs of local communities, with the understanding that helping people saves wildlife. Info: gadventures.com.au/ jane-goodall.

FLY A380 IN DUBAI MALL

DUBAI Mall’s Emirates A380 Experience is the region’s only public A380 flight simulator. Enthusiasts can test their flying abilities, and those curious about the full experience of flying an A380 can take command of the cockpit for take-off, cruising and landing at thousands of international airports, including every airport in Emirates’ global network. A qualified instructor will be on hand to guide customers through the full experience. A variety of packages are available, starting from 15-minute sessions all the way to 45-minute

experiences. Info available at: emiratesa380experience .com.

SYDNEY BRIDGECLIMB

THE iconic BridgeClimb turns 21 this year. It operates four different climbs spanning from day to night. For bookings and information, go to bridgeclimb.com.

ANDREW DENTON AND JENNIFER BYRNE JOIN CHIMU

CHIMU Adventures is hosting TV personalities Jennifer Byrne and Andrew Denton aboard its Antarctica Untouched voyage’s new small ship vessel the Ocean Endeavour, which departs November 22, 2020. The trip will raise funds for the Mawson's Huts Foundation. The voyage will see them share their passion for this destination with fewer than 200 other passengers through intimate lectures and discussions, and Chimu

are overjoyed to be sharing the experience with them again. www.chimuadventures .com.au.

SPLIT YOUR GHAN JOURNEY

GUESTS travelling on the three-night, four-day Ghan Expedition from Darwin to Adelaide can split their journey in Alice Springs, giving them the chance to explore further afield. From June to August Expedition guests can spend three days in Alice Springs before re-joining The Ghan and continuing south to Adelaide. The new nine-night Territory Tour package has been curated that highlights the best of the Northern Territory. In includes three nights on The Ghan Expedition and three nights in Alice Springs. . Prices start from $3999 per person Gold Service twin share. Info: journeybeyondrail.com.au /territorytour or phone 132 147.

ECCENTRIC LIGHTNING RIDGE The most unique mining town in Australia, Lighting Ridge boasts with over 100yrs of opal mining history. Fossick for your own treasure on lands that 100mil years ago dinosaurs roamed. Visit Museums, Mines and Caves and even an artesian pool! 5 Days from $1,460 Departing 13th May 2020

TOTAL TASMANIA

Tasmania, “the Island of Inspiration” is an island of dramatic coastlines, quaint villages, convict-built heritage and magniﬁcent food and wine. Incl Hobart, Port Arthur, Derwent Bridge, Tamar Valley, Beauty Point, Cradle Mt & Gordon River Cruise. 11 Days, $3,490. Return Airfares $3,925 Departure Dates: 1st April 2020

NEw ENGLAND HISTORICAL TRAIL *4 Days* – Depart Brisbane. Enjoy Historical Armidale, Glen Innes and Tenterﬁeld, Booloominbah & Saumarez Historical Homesteads, Standing Stones*, *Lunch at Abby of the Roses Manor 4 Days - $799 *PP Twin Share, Single add $195 *Departure Dates 2020: 25th March*

YAMBA & BYRON BAY 4 Days – Depart Brisbane. Enjoy lunches overlooking beautiful oceans, colourful ﬁshing trawlers and pelicans, also Clarence River Cruise. Picturesque Villages and Maclean, known as the Scottish Town of Australia. 4 Days - $699*, *PP Twin Share, Single $195 Departing: 27th February

TURTLE HATCHING OF MON REPOS

MELBOURNE FLOwER SHOw, 25TH ANNIvERSARY

4 Days – Depart Brisbane to see the Turtle hatchlings at Mon Repos. Mon Repos is a very special place; it supports the largest concentration of nesting marine turtles on the eastern coast. Here we can learn about the Mon Repos Turtles and their colourful history. Then enjoy a Burnett River Cruise, Visit a Bundaberg Bundy Rum Distillery and gorgeous Tin Can Bay. 4 Days - $799*, *PP Twin Share, Single $195

*4 Days* *– “25th Anniversary Show”* Depart Brisbane to Melbourne. Enjoy the International Flower and Garden Show with over 300 exhibits. We also visit Old Melbourne Gaol and Queen Victoria Markets, Old Treasury and Exhibition Buildings and tour the famous MCG Cricket Ground. 4 Days, Return Flights Included Ex, BNE $1480 *PP Twin Share, Single Add $195

Departing: 4th March

*Departure Dates 2020: 28th March*

CLASSIC SOUTHERN OUTBACk PUBS AND CUNNAMULLA

*8 Days* - *Classic Outback Pubs – if only the walls could talk! *Discover the pubs where Australian folklore characters came to life including “Dad & Dave” Rudd’s Pub, Stanthorpe, QLD oldest 1864 Nindigully Pub, 1866 Club Boutique Hotel, Cunnamulla Fella Centre, Charleville Cosmos Observatory & Historic Corones Hotel, Mitchell Great Artisan Hot Water Pools, Big Rig Night Show Roma, Dalby. *8 Days $2180*PP Twin Share, Single add $420, *Departure Dates 2020: 1st April*

ICONIC PUBS OF NORTH QUEENSLAND *10 Days* -Depart Brisbane to Cairns on the Spirit of QLD Train – See spectacular scenic destinations whilst visiting well known and historic pubs including the 1878 Court House Hotel, Port Douglas, highest pub in QLD Ravenshoe Hotel, the Iconic *“Pub with no Beer”* Ingham, 1901 Great Northern Hotel, Townsville, Charters Towers 1865 Eureka Hotel *10 Days with Return Rail Fare. QLD Pension Economy Seat $1840. QLD Pension Deluxe Rail Bed $2190. Seniors Card Deluxe Rail Bed $2480 *Departure Dates 2020: 28th April 25th July; 19th Sep*

* On all tours up to $3,000 value

OUTBACK TRAVEL: Flinders Ranges's Rawnsley Park Eco Villas.

Visit www.greatvalueholidays.com.au

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NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

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Pack your padded shorts and get ready for the ride of your life

’DAM GOOD TIME: Windmills and canals... these twin features of Amsterdam attract millions of tourists each year to one of Europe’s most popular destinations.

Photos: Graeme Wilson

The Van Gogh Museum celebrates the special genius of one of the world's best-known artists.

An Amsterdam sunrise is truly worth an early wake-up call. The shiny boats awaiting their next European river cruise just add to the allure.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

Rare view... Rembrandt is among the famous Dutch painters whose work is on display at Museum Square.

Bikes, bikes and more bikes. Special storage areas are available to the thousands of commuters.

BLOOMING LOVELY: The canals are pretty enough in their own right, but the frequent floral touches just add another level of beauty to Amsterdam.

It’s time to get on your bike to start exploring Graeme Wilson BIKES and bongs…these are my lasting impressions of Amsterdam. Oh, and windmills. And canals. And art. It’s taken me 60 years to navigate my way to the city of tulips, but it was well worth the wait. As a regular recreational cyclist, this city is made for me. Everywhere you go you’re surrounded by bikes of all shapes and sizes, and their proliferation seems to mean power to the pedallers. So none of the road rage associated with venturing out on Australian roads, where so often it’s an angry car v bike showdown. Live and let live seems to be the Dutch motto, and that suits me just fine. A leisurely pedal out to the historic windmill

Water features everywhere around Amsterdam... here it leaps skywards outside the Rijksmuseum.

The traditional wooden shoes (clogs/klompen) are an important part of Dutch heritage and are still worn in rural areas today.

village of Zaanse Schans (see Wanderlust cover) was a highlight of my three-night Amsterdam adventure. No helmet required, so it was a ride on the wild side with the wind in what

All your senses are alive in Amsterdam, but your nasal passages in particular certainly get a workout as you wander along the winding canals and alluring laneways. I’m not one to partake

little remains of my hair. My normally dormant arty side also came alive in Amsterdam, with a visit to the Van Gogh museum providing a great insight into this master of the easel.

in such things, but the distinctive aroma of cannabis is a regular reminder of the relaxed drug laws here. Perhaps fortunately, these accompanying pictures aren’t scratch

and smell, but hopefully they paint many thousand words of praise. If you ever get the chance to visit this unique city, pack your padded bike shorts and get ready for the ride of your life.

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

VIVA ELVIS: Diehard fan David Johnstone with an exact replica of one of Elvis's famous jumpsuits –- the only pieces in the museum which are copies rather than originals.

Photo: Alison Houston

The King’s Castle a portal through to Graceland ‘‘ Alison Houston

HOW much do you really know about Elvis Aaron Presley? You will find out at The King’s Castle – the Gold Coast’s new Elvis museum. Established by Greg Page – yes, the Yellow Wiggle – and David Johnstone – long-time Elvis tragic responsible for starting the first Viva Surfers Paradise Elvis tribute competition – the Coast museum is a “Kissing Cousin” to the original Parkes venue in NSW, and the two will rotate memorabilia every few months. The Colosseum room which houses the museum at the Gold Coast Italo-Australia Club is filled with treasures dividing Elvis’s life into sections – the early years, movie years, army, Elvis and Priscilla, Colonel Parker, the comeback and concert years. David said Greg admits to being a relatively new convert to Elvis. He was introduced to his music and to Graceland in 1999 by fellow band member Anthony Field – yes, the Blue Wiggle. At America’s

And what about the origins of that famous phrase “Elvis has left the building”?

Photos and personal details from Elvis's army years, an original Christmas card sent by Colonel Parker in 1959, and a cardboard display used to advertise Elvis's appearance as "the outstanding event of the TV season!". Photo: COURTESY THE KING'S CASTLE

second-most visited residence after the White House, Greg was fascinated to walk the same floors Elvis had walked, see the things he had loved, and to hear more about the man behind the image … and he wanted more. An authentic cheque signed by Elvis and framed with a photo was Greg’s first purchase some years later, and what followed was an enviable collection of about 1500 items over the years, including cars, furniture, guitars, books,

jewellery, scripts, letters, microphones, movie and personal clothing, accessories and more. Parkes, as home to the Elvis Festival each January, was the obvious place for Greg to first share his collection with the public. The original King’s Castle opened in 2009. But he always wanted to find a spot on the Gold Coast – Australia’s Vegas – and with the new Baz Lurhmann movie tracing Elvis’s (Austin Butler) relationship with his manager Colonel Parker

(Tom Hanks) soon to be filmed on the Coast, “it’s now or never”. But the project has had its hitches. The opening had to be delayed from its original July date to August 17 – eerily enough August 16 in the US, and the 42nd anniversary of Elvis dying in 1977 at the age of 42. While not huge, the museum is a comprehensive and authentic walk through Elvis’s life. David said even the most ardent fans invariably comment at one point or another, “I didn’t

know that”. For instance, did you know that every year Elvis would give $1000 to 50 Memphis charities, or that he was enthralled by the police and had his own collection of police mementos? And what about the origins of that famous phrase “Elvis has left the building”? David said that dates from Elvis’s earliest days, when girls would attempt to follow the then up-and-coming star after he played on the Louisiana Hayride broadcast, leaving the other bigger name artists without an audience. “Letting the girls know that he had left was a sort of appeal to them to come back and watch the rest of the show,” David said.

An original early press release by the Colonel referring to Elvis as “a fireball” with “no serious interest of heart” is among documents to be seen on the Coast, along with Elvis’s handwritten lyrics for Trouble and a humble letter penned to a fan. David said the aim was to let fans and historians alike know a little bit more about the times and the man whose bigger-than-life image arguably overtook the reality, but whose music lives on. The King’s Castle is open 10am-6pm daily in the Gold Coast Italo-Australia Club, 18 Fairway Dr, Clear Island Waters. Go to thekingscastle.com.au or phone 0447 491 511. Every three months the club hosts a live Elvis tribute show. The next concert, on January 18, will feature Australasia’s best tribute artist, Brody Finlay. Tickets are $10. Tickets to the King’s Castle are $25 adults, $18 concession and children over 13 – mention Seniors News to receive half-price entry until December 31.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

From Adelaide to Alice Two mates take time out to enjoy an outback road trip Andrew Mevissen AUSTRALIANS have always loved roadtrips, perhaps because our vast continent lends itself to so many epic journeys. The excitement, adventure and raw joy of a roadtrip holiday to the Australian outback is unique and compelling. Whenever I’m cocooned in the office, I feel the pull of the open road, big skies, far horizons, red earth, friendly pubs, colourful characters, enticing road signs and a captivating sense of wonder. And then there’s the camaraderie with your partner or friend as you sing along to your favourite tunes, share life stories, tell jokes or solve all the problems in the world. It’s time, it’s space, it’s an escape, it’s a journey of many kinds — and there’s nothing quite like it. So when my mate and I realised recently we had a week’s window away from our busy family and work lives to indulge our love of roadtrips and the outback, we grabbed a map and plotted a boys’ own adventure from Adelaide to Alice — the long way, via the Flinders Ranges, Oodnadatta Track and a big rock called Uluru. Flying to Adelaide, we kicked off our desert safari with a luxurious stay at the Adina Hotel Adelaide Treasury, which occupies one of the oldest and most historically significant buildings in the city. Completed in 1876, this stately colonial building – and now deluxe, boutique hotel — was once the hub of South Australian politics, boasting a network of underground tunnels once used to transport gold and now used as guest passageways. After living it up in the gym, pool, jacuzzi and wine bar, we headed next morning to pick up our mobile home for the week, our Apollo Motorhome Trailfinder Camper. Tailor-made for dirt-road touring, this pop-up 4WD camper with external, slide-out kitchen was perfect for our journey, offering comfortable lower and upper beds for two middle-aged blokes! Road tunes lined up and excitement piqued, we headed north from

Adelaide, taking our ‘Apollo’ mission into the great, empty interior of Australia. Just over five hours north of Adelaide, the giant, jagged peaks of the Flinders Ranges reared their rugged heads. We were here to fulfil a life-long goal of mine to climb St Mary’s Peak, the tallest mountain in the ranges. After a hearty meal, refreshing ale and overnight camp in our Trailfinder at Wilpena Pound Resort, we set off for the lofty, 1171m summit on a steep, six-hour return trek which challenged our lungs and legs but rewarded us with exhilarating, jaw-dropping vistas over the rocky ranges and beyond to the desert plains. Some might say those endless desert plains are boring but for us they are head-clearing, eye-dazzling, soul-stirring expanses of raw, wild beauty. After banter over a beer with the locals at the Marree Pub, we pointed the Trailfinder to one of Australia’s iconic dirt highways, the Oodnadatta Track. A warm bore-water soak in Coward Springs and the edge of Lake Eyre — Australia’s largest lake and lowest point at 15m below sea level — broke our journey briefly but sometimes we just stopped to walk in silence into the never-never to feel the pure, primal power and overwhelming stillness of the desert. Our next overnight stop was the remote hamlet of William Creek, South Australia’s smallest town with a permanent population of just one — Trevor Wright, the owner of the quirky, character-filled pub, which is pretty much the only building in ‘town’. He also owns Wrightsair, a fleet of light planes which offer scenic flights over Lake Eyre and the wonderful, little-known attraction of Painted Hills which stretch across Anna Creek Station, the largest cattle station in the world, equal in size to a third of Tasmania. No roads reach the Painted Hills so flying low over these remarkable, ochre-topped, sandstone formations was enthralling. The cowboy mining town of Cooper Pedy was next on the horizon where we stretched our legs and muscles with a gym

‘‘

our vast continent lends itself to so many epic journeys.

GRAND ADVENTURERS: Andrew Mevissen and Glenn Diggle escaping the city on wheels and in the sky.

Information apollocamper.com; adinahotels.com /en/apartments /adelaide-treasury; wilpenapound. com.au; wrightsair.com.au; ayersrockresort. com.au; northernteritory.com.

Travelling on the iconic Oodnadatta Track.

Glenn and Andrew take in the grandeur of Uluru. workout before rejoining the bitumen and the Stuart Highway for the long leg up to the Northern Territory and the physical and spiritual heart of Australia, Uluru.

Coming face to face with the massive, 348m-high monolith, plonked improbably in the middle of the desert, is a powerful and moving experience that will live

with you forever. We circled the base of the rock by bike along a fun and easy 11km circuit that reveals the secret canyons, caves, waterholes, multi-coloured

textures and colourful ancestral stories of this amazing rock. An even better view of Uluru was revealed on a brief but thrilling flight with Ayers Rock Helicopters — a must-do experience. We toasted the last night of our desert journey at Sounds of Silence, a spectacular, outdoor dining experience that began with chilled sparkling wine and canapes atop a sand dune as we watched the sun set on Uluru, followed by a guided, astronomical scan of the night skies above us. Alice Springs was our destination next morning to drop off the Trailfinder at the Apollo depot and fly home but for now, huddled around the roaring log fire at Sounds of Silence, we soaked in the views across the desert. As they say, life’s either an adventure or nothing at all! * The writer flew to Adelaide with Jetstar and from Alice Springs with Qantas.

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Unexpected Hong Kong ‘‘ Protests have little impact on couple’s holiday plans

Peter Chapman

ANYONE will tell you when you plan to go on a holiday to book well in advance to assure yourself of such things as room availability and best prices. It also means you can rest easy knowing that everything is in place for the holiday you wanted. The Chapman family, like many others, saves and plans for one good holiday every year and as my wife is a former travel agent she adheres strictly to the “get in early” philosophy. In fact I just have to mention I’d like to go somewhere and before the week is out she will present me with brochures and a fully costed itinerary. Earlier this year we were chatting about our next escape and she mentioned to me how much she had enjoyed going to Hong Kong. Having never been there I was quick to agree and we went ahead and booked our flights and accommodation in Hong Kong. Job well done, we thought, as we sat back and started looking forward to our next adventure. Unfortunately just after we booked the trip, Hong Kong literally exploded into street chaos. At first we thought it would all settle down before we had to fly in, but month after month the street violence and protests continued to escalate. As our September deadline fast approached we looked at cancelling, but the hotels and airline both told us there would be no refund unless Hong

AT A GLANCE Peter Chapman’s ratings: Hong Kong ....... 7/10 Food ..................8/10 Prices .................6/10 Qantas flight .... 6/10 (food was average) Hong Kong Harbour Grand Hotel ..... 7/10 Kowloon Novotel Hotel .................6/10 Sha Tin Races Haymarket........ 9/10 Happy Valley Races Stable Bend Terrace 3/10 Hong Kong Disneyland .......6/10 (needs more shows and rides)

Kong was declared a nogo zone by the Australian government. So unless we wanted to rip up our holiday savings we had but one choice and that was to board the Qantas Dreamliner and head to Hong Kong for two weeks. What did we discover when we touched down at a quiet Hong Kong International Airport? Well, what we didn’t find were big crowds or long queues. In fact, we were later told that tourist arrivals were down by a staggering 40 per cent in August, a drop of 851,000 from the same month last year. The fall in numbers was reflected wherever we went in Hong Kong and Kowloon on the other side of the harbour. Many kiosks in the tourist markets were shut because of lack of shoppers and vendors who were there were keen to make a sale from anyone who dared ask “how much?” One vendor from the Ladies Market in Hong Kong actually chased us for 100 metres, dropping her price for a handbag from $150 Australian to just $20. Each day the local newspaper reports would tell us what happened the night before and hotel staff and taxi drivers advised us where not to go that day. Did we see any protests, were we at any risk and were we concerned? The answer to all those questions was no. In fact, having fewer crowds meant we received better service and better prices had the city not been under siege. We hadn’t planned a visit to Hong Kong Disneyland, but when we were told the queues there were almost non-existent we caught the train across for the day. The reports were spot on and only one ride had a queuing time of longer than 10 minutes. The food lived up to Hong Kong’s reputation and this is one of its biggest drawcards. Wine is still expensive, but beer is reasonable. Seafood is fresh, fruit is sweet and the menu covers all nationalities, unless you are from Alaska. Overall the prices were still high when compared to Australia, but at least

The food lived up to Hong Kong’s reputation and is one of its biggest drawcards.

You can get great bargains at the Gem Markets in Hong Kong, but you need to know your prices before you start bartering with the seasoned stall owners. Photos: Peter Chapman

The street violence in Hong Kong cut airport arrivals by more than 800,000 in August. That’s bad news for the thousands of street vendors who have had to drop their prices dramatically to get a sale.

HOWDY PARTNER: Disneyland Hong Kong is full of favourite characters including Woody, but while the unrest continues it’s not full of customers. you had great variety. We did the one-day trip across the border into mainland China and Shenzhen and walked the five floors of an amazing shopping mall full of hundreds of small kiosks. It was the best place to shop during our trip by far, but again don’t expect amazing bargains. A trip to the races in Hong Kong at Sha Tin was a highlight, although a trip to the Happy Valley course

was a major disappointment. If you plan to take in the races book in the Hay Market at Sha Tin and forget Happy Valley. Overall, we were glad we went and now like my wife I can cross Hong Kong off the bucket list. It didn’t rate as one of the top holiday places I’ve been to, but if you are into food and shopping for a week’s break it has plenty to offer.

The Causeway Bay Markets in Hong Kong are usually flooded with customers. Now they are empty.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

More local news. Now easier to read.

From next month, you’ll notice our new, easier-to-read size. Even though we’re changing the size of the paper, we’ll continue to bring you more of the local stories that matter. With our new look and feel, and more local news than ever before, we’re fitting more of the news you care about into a handier size. We’re excited about the changes coming. It’s all part of our commitment to covering the news that matters and our mission to make your favourite papers even better.

NEWS

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Wellbeing

A NEW on-site “Men’s Shed” – which also welcomes women – at Ozcare’s Glenvale aged care is helping 25-30 older people with dementia reconnect with their past and forge new friendships. Toowoomba West Men’s Shed president Murray Trewavas and mates collaborate with Ozcare to provide residents with projects to work on between monthly visits to the Glenvale Shed, known as “The Folly”. Ozcare Toowoomba facility manager Jeramy Hope said a competition had been run among residents to name the Shed. “Our male residents wanted the name to be inclusive, so female residents could join in activities,” he said. However, Jeramy wasn’t quite sure why “The Folly” – in architectural terms generally an ornamental garden building with no practical purpose, or

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Nothing foolish about The Folly

Currently the residents are making cat scratching towers to donate to the RSPCA, “folly” meaning foolishness – perhaps a marriage of both? Jeramy said a number of the residents had lived on the land, so The Folly allowed them to reminisce about those times. “We have a lovely bunch of gentlemen here that were very much involved in the establishment of the Men’s Shed so there is a lot of ownership, excitement and expectation with their projects,” he said. The Folly opened two months ago, and Murray

THE FOLLY: Celebrating the new “Men’s Shed” at Ozcare are (back, from left) Murray Trewavas, David Janetzki MP, Ozcare Glenvale manager Jeramy Hope, Rob Heading, (front) Grahame Fallon and Val Morrison. said a good rapport had already been built up with residents – about half of whom are female – sharing a chat and a laugh as they work. “Currently the residents are making cat scratching towers to donate to the RSPCA, so we do the major cutting then get the residents to do the

sanding, painting, gluing and assembly so they are involved in the whole process,” Murray said. Some of the women join in, while others work in the raised garden beds growing vegetables. “It’s a bit experimental at the moment to see where it goes and work out how we can meet their

needs at their level,” Murray said. Member for Toowoomba South David Janetzki praised Ozcare and Toowoomba West Men’s Shed for providing residents with important connections to their community. “This on-site Men’s Shed gives residents an

opportunity to socialise, share life experiences, work with their hands again and maintain a sense of purpose with their projects,” Mr Janetzki said. “They are working on projects to donate to the community while enjoying the atmosphere of old-fashioned mateship.”

Services help cope with grief at Christmas time Alison Houston WITH Christmas decorations appearing in shops, many people who have lost a loved one face the dilemma of how to cope as preparations

begin for the festive season. Burstows Funerals’ annual Services of Remembrance and Hope — including songs of comfort, a reflection ceremony and supper — provide an emotional outlet, a way to embrace

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devoted to that person. He acknowledged that a sudden or unexpected loss, or the death of a young person, was the most confronting to deal with, but he said even after almost 40 years in the funeral business you could never be truly “prepared” to lose someone you love of any age. “ … although grateful for Mum’s long life with us, and although her death at 90 years of age seemed natural and logical … saying goodbye to her, still really hurt,” Mr Burstow wrote last year of his own experiences in losing him mum and much-loved family matriarch Dulcie Burstow. However, he said by embracing what was important to her, at the same time as not being afraid of starting new traditions “all anchored by the faith, love and values that live on as a result of our wonderful Mum”, it was possible for the whole family to again have a happy Christmas. Finding the balance between feeling that happiness is in some way disloyal to the person who has died and yet not wanting to cloud

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It is important not to be afraid to express sadness celebrations with your grief can be difficult, he said. It is important not to be afraid to express sadness or grief, because ignoring the loss you feel won’t make it go away, and talking about it openly can help you feel better. And, he added, there is no time limit on those feelings. You don’t stop loving or missing that person, you just become “reconciled over time to moving on without them physically being there”. Talking about the person who has died, remembering the good times, can bring both the tears and laughter needed to help the living heal, he said. He urged people to seek support rather than trying to cope alone, and those offering help not to try to constantly “cheer” the person grieving, but

allow them to feel what they need to feel. One quote in which he said he found comfort was Helen Keller’s words: “What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us”. The Services of Remembrance and Hope are at TS Burstow Chapel, 1020 Ruthven St, Toowoomba at 4pm on Tuesday, December 2 and 7pm on Thursday, December 5. For catering purposes, booking is required on 1800 803 196 by Friday, November 29. Transport assistance can also be arranged. Additional services are also being held at Dalby Presbyterian Church at 6.30pm on Wednesday, December 4, at Warwick Funerals Chapel at 6pm on Tuesday, December 10 and Laidley Uniting Church, 45 Patrick St at 6pm on Thursday, December 12. To find out more or for other advice on coping with grieving, go to burstows.com.au, or phone Burstows Funerals for a How to Cope with Christmas brochure.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

WELLBEING

ADVOCATE: National Osteoporosis advocate Ita Buttrose (centre) with osteoporosis patients Elaine and Carol.

GOOD BONE HEALTH THE basic rule is eat and drink plenty of calcium. Unless you have broken a bone, most of us will never have our bones examined closely. The fact is, with 206 bones in the adult body that help with everything from movement to protection, bone health is crucial and shouldn’t be overlooked, especially as we get older. Understanding bone health The bones that make up the skeleton are living, growing tissue and as a result new bone is constantly being made. As we get older, our bone mass decreases and bones become weaker. As we age, bone diseases such as arthritis and osteoporosis become more common; it’s estimated that 3.8 per cent of the population are living with osteoporosis. What is Osteoporosis Osteoporosis is a disease where the bone thickness decreases and bone quality is compromised, resulting in brittle bones. These bones become prone to breaks and fractures, even from the most minor bumps. While osteoporosis is more likely to occur in women aged over 50, it can strike anyone at any age. Risk Factors These are: age; previous broken/fractured bones — from only a minor fall/bump; being underweight; and family history. Screening – Bone Density Scan “It’s important for people with increased risk factors to ensure they ask their GP for a bone health assessment, especially given there are typically no symptoms in the early stages of bone loss,” Dr Uday Ahluwalia from PRP Imaging explained. “A bone density scan is recommended to provide an insight into the overall health of the bones.” The test will reveal whether the bone density is normal, whether there is bone loss and if further action needs to be taken to prevent worsening or whether the patient’s fracture risk is high and osteoporosis medication is required.

PREVENTION TIPS Diet: Ensure you are consuming enough calcium — three to four servings daily are recommended Aside from diary, good sources of calcium include almonds, green leafy vegetables, salmon, sardines and tofu. Exercise: Daily physical activity is important for the health and function of your bones. Increase Vitamin D: Vitamin D helps to absorb calcium into the body. Good sources of vitamin D include vegetables and oily fish. Quit smoking: Tobacco can affect hormone levels, which can impact how much calcium is absorbed. Limit alcohol intake: Excessive drinking can decrease bone density. Ultimately, early detection is vital. Bone conditions that aren’t detected and treated effectively can severely impact a person’s mobility and quality of life.

Osteoporosis national action plan under way Seniors News

OSTEOPOROSIS Australia and the Federal Government have launched the National Strategic Action Plan for Osteoporosis. The $4 million plan provides critical support to the 4.7 million Australians aged over 50 who live with poor bone health, and embarks on a preventative approach to reduce future bone fractures and the impact of osteoporosis on the Australian healthcare system. Just ask NSW Central Coast resident Carole. Her world was turned on its head when she celebrated her 50th birthday with a bone density scan at the request of her GP. Some 10 years before, Carole had sustained multiple bone fractures. What followed was intense treatment but also further fractures. Her healthy lifestyle and good diet weren’t enough. After being properly diagnosed with osteoporosis, Carole’s endocrinologist started her on medication, various forms of which she has since tried. “You just don’t realise, or recognise, the damage that fractures can cause before they occur,” Carole, now 65, said.

“It’s time that people took their bone health very seriously, and recognised that by taking action sooner rather than later, painful fractures may be avoided.” The National Strategic Action Plan on Osteoporosis has three key priorities — increasing osteoporosis awareness and education with a focus on prevention; improving osteoporosis diagnosis, management and care; and data collection,

monitoring and strategic research. The evidence-based plan provides a roadmap to improve the prevention, diagnosis and management of osteoporosis. The plan aims to reduce the personal and economic burden that osteoporosis and related fractures have on the community, and in particular, on older Australians. Currently, 66 per cent of Australians aged over 50

are estimated to have poor bone health. Hip fractures remain the costliest type of fracture related to osteoporosis. Other types of fractures remain widespread — wrist, spinal, arm and leg fractures. While osteoporosis mainly affects women, men also need to check their bone health, with 25 per cent of cases occurring in men. Info: osteoporosis.org.au

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FEATURE STORY

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Friends are important

Tracey Johnstone AN OLD friend mentioned in a recent email to another school friend that I had just moved to town and was feeling lonely so could I be included in a reunion lunch. Coincidently, the email wasn’t supposed to have me copied in. When I read it, I felt quite miffed that I was seen as being lonely. It might have been true, but the public labelling of me in this way without me ever saying that was the case left me feeling lousy. There is a strong stigma associated with admitting you are lonely, Dr Barbara Neves, a senior sociology lecturer at Monash University, has found. “Particularly in later life,’’ she said. “This is because some older people already feel so stigmatised, so patronised because they are old and frail, and so loneliness adds another layer to a comprised sense of personhood and dignity, particularly in a society obsessed with being young.” But, is it that I am just alone rather than lonely? Al: “I never allow myself to (be) LONELY! Occupy your mind with activity that you’ve always wanted to do while you can. I love being on my own (not lonely).” Being alone is often when we choose to be by our self. Loneliness is something quite different. It’s not something that we can see; it’s a feeling, and it’s subjective. It comes from a lack of companionship, a sense of neglect, feeling as though you don’t belong. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare puts it simply: “Having a lower level of social contact than desired.” According to the AIHW,

GET-TOGETHERS: Being part of something is a good feeling. older Australians are at an increased risk of social isolation due to a number of environmental factors, primarily the loss of physical or mental capacity or the loss of friends and family members. It estimates that about one in five (19 per cent) of us are socially isolated. The highest rates occur in the largest urban regions and in sparsely populated states and territories. Margaret: “Groups are fine for some people…thankfully I don’t need them.” But what about Al and Margaret’s natural social needs? Humans are social animals and we need to belong. By forming meaningful relationships, we can stave off many major and costly health issues including depression, anxiety and possibly the onset of dementia. “Loneliness increases the risk of dementia by more than 40 per cent for

older people,” Dr Neves said. ❚ Reach out Queensland University’s Professor Alex Haslam argues that we all need groups in our lives, but there is one very important component to groups that can make them work for you, and that is meaningfulness. “The critical thing that gets people out of loneliness, or drives them into it, is loss or gaining valued group memberships,” he said. Just spending time around other people isn’t necessarily the answer. If the people you are with aren’t valued by you, it can make things worse. “The critical thing is being a member of meaningful groups. “It’s not just about not having anyone to talk to; it’s about not being part of these groups that take you out of yourself or individuality.” Let’s face it, how often does some bright spark

suggest you join this group or that group while not fully understanding what type of connection you really need? So, being forced into a group isn’t necessarily the answer for you. You need to achieve a sense of being connected to that group and that means finding people who think the way you do. “The key message is that you should join groups, not which groups should you join,” Prof Haslam said. “Any group is good for you as soon as you can identify with it and it works for you. “It’s the meaningfulness of the group that matters, not the nature of the group,” he added. Ted: “You can choose to be lonely or not lonely. That said, you can be lonely in a relationship too. If I was to be lonely, I would rather be lonely on my own than in a bad relationship.” It’s the quality of

Photo: Cecilie_Arcurs

relationships that is important as well. You need to surround yourself with people who mean something to you. That might be many or just one or two, but the critical choice is ensuring they complement you and allow you to be who you are. ❚ Change direction The first step is to realise loneliness is not your fault Dr Neves says. “It’s a social issue, not just an individual issue.” Chari: When my husband passed away eight years ago, my life went from being super hectic to nothing doing. I learned how to keep myself busy by volunteering, watching movies, joining several groups of friends for regular lunch outings, and most importantly, I learned to do things on my own and enjoy it rather than wait for someone to do things with me. I still do feel lonely sometimes but that’s OK.”

Secondly, you need to determine who you want to spend time with. “Trying to go around negative behaviours and being more open to quality time with others is crucial,” Dr Neves said. Her next tip is to find out what social activities are happening in your neighbourhood or retirement community, and that interest you. “It’s where you can meet people with similar interests,” she said. Pat: Best thing ever when I joined a VIEW Club. You can also look at where you can share your experience and knowledge within a volunteer role. “Volunteering and helping others can help with our own feelings and can help us see the value in ourselves,” Prof Haslam said. “Everyone has a role to play in helping to address loneliness. In our research we have found CONTINUED ON PAGE 33

How does your grandchild’s school compare? An exclusive education series every grandparent must read. To find out more visit education.news.com.au THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DECIDE YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

FEATURE STORY

part of good health FROM PAGE 32

social worker or your GP.

that helping other people is one of the best ways to stave it off yourself.” He says viewing your neighbour as someone who you can share common group membership or a sense of identity with, consequently developing “us-ness’’, is a valuable “way to interact with them and the way you perceive them and the expectations you have around them”. “Beyond joining a group, you can also look at the relationships you have and see how you can make them better for you,” Dr Neve says. “And be open to new relationships.” Another idea from Beyond Blue is pets, particularly dogs, who provide constant companionship and unconditional love, and need to be kept active. They give you a purpose of getting you out of your home even when you’re feeling down, forcing you to be more active and opening opportunities for you to connect with others in your community. If you are still feeling lonely, then Dr Neves recommends you talk to a

❚ Social prescribing The Royal College of General Practitioners reports in its 2019 General Practice: Health of the Nation that psychological issues such as depression, mood disorders and anxiety “again appear as the most common health issue managed by GPs”. In the UK, GPs are being encouraged to connect these patients with relevant social services. “Its impact is a bit mixed precisely because you are often imposing solutions or groups on people and doing that in a not very structured way,” Prof Haslam said. On a recent episode of the ABC show The Drum, former AMA president Kerryn Phelps explained the challenges around this type of health support approach as GPs are often only able to allocate 20 minutes for a consultation. “I think there is an artificial divide between psychological and physical illness,” she said. “The two almost always coexist. Somebody might present with trouble

GOOD COMPANY: Pets can be a great comfort. Photo: Jevtic

sleeping or a headache or some other somatic condition or physical symptom, whereas the underlying or coexisting condition is one of anxiety or depression or difficulty with life circumstances. And, of course, the GP is the first point of call and should be for someone suffering from any kind of health condition.” The burden lies with the GP who Dr Phelps says would find it almost impossible to provide sufficient support to a patient within a 20-minute consultation, especially when a patient does not express their

psychological issue until the last minutes of an appointment. In Australia, University of Queensland’s Associate Professor Genevieve Dingle is leading The Ways to Wellness Social Isolation Project research team which is testing this social prescribing concept, where patients are referred to a link worker and on to non-medical group programs in the community. Prof Dingle’s team are examining the effects of this social prescribing project with a view to developing a model that

Being on your own has merit, but not all the time. Photo:

kali9

can be implemented across Australia. ❚ Tackling the conversation head-on Talking to others about being lonely is hard. Often those that matter most to you will divert the conversation away from what you are trying to voice rather than listen to what you have to say. If this keeps happening, there are free phone services you can contact so your concerns can be heard. “Although we are talking about strategies that people can take at the

individual level, it is important to think about our social responsibility,” Dr Neves said. “One thing that is extremely important is more initiatives to destigmatise loneliness and deconstruct the idea that loneliness is associated with a personal weakness.” If any part of this story raises concerns, phone Lifeline 131 114, Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 or Red Cross Telecross, 1300 885 698.

Mutual support and meaningful connections THE team at Lively are young, enthusiastic and energised and ready to roll out their innovative intergenerational home-care service. The management group of four in their early 30s, led by Lively founder Anna Donaldson, are bringing to the aged-care space a new model for delivering in-home support which is a fresh, youthful approach Ms Donaldson says is sometimes lacking in the industry. “It’s about young and older people coming together and supporting each other in an enthusiastic and energetic way on both sides, and recognising both young and older people can be lively and have a whole lot to contribute and offer,” Ms Donaldson said. The not-for-profit organisation has been operating in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane for about four years, offering technology help to 700 older Australians. Last month it expanded its operations, after running

a pilot, launching its home-care service model in Melbourne. The service is based on the Netherlands’ Buurtzorg low-cost model which uses a local team of helpers who are established in a local community and work directly with people in that area with the autonomy to self-manage as a team, but supported by a central office. “Teams can then pop up anywhere around Australia in the near future rather than us growing to become a huge organisation,” she said. Ms Donaldson says the new business aims to address youth unemployment and underemployment while also tackling social isolation among older Australians, and the disconnection and ageism between the generations. “We train and employ job seekers in the 18 to 25 age bracket to work with older people in their local communities, providing support and

NEW MODEL: Lively’s newly launched home care service is working to build reciprocal relationships. Photo: Lively services that help older people maintain social connection and general wellbeing,” she added. “Through the process we try to facilitate and encourage the formation of meaningful relationships and friendships between the older and younger people where they are learning from the older people’s knowledge and experience, and breaking down some of the stereotypes, attitudes

and preconceptions young people might have about older community members.” The young workers are selected based on their attitudes, values and mindset instead of just their qualifications. Lively put them through an introductory course which Ms Donaldson says is about establishing an empathy and awareness of the people they will be working with.

“And (we do) some foundation work around their communication and interpersonal skills, and the skills they need to manage themselves in this environment,” she said. “We give them a lot of autonomy to be connected with the older clients and work with them to self-manage how they work together and support each other. “Through the training we impress on them the responsibility and

expectations of their role.” This approach is an innovative way of creating a new entry point for young people moving into working in aged care. “It gives them an introduction to the sector and a sense of how rewarding it is, and build their motivation to take on more training and qualifications.” The services provided will be basic support that doesn’t include personal care and support with mobility. The workers will be paid for doing simple tasks like gardening, shopping and jobs around the house The workers are paid through the Home Care Packages program. It’s a two-way relationship where both generations value getting to know each other, Ms Donaldson says. “We are trying to build reciprocal relationships where there is a sense of exchange,” she said. “The older person is contributing to the younger person rather than just receiving care and support.”

LIVING

Living Live & let save

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Real service for seniors The newest real estate agency on the block BRAND INSIGHTS

PERSONALISED SERVICE: Picket Fence Properties principal Bryan Gray brings a unique, diverse knowledge to the property market.

PICKET Fence Properties is Toowoomba’s newest and most innovative Real Estate Agency. Founded in 2019 by principal and respected Toowoomba professional Bryan Gray, Picket Fence Properties aims to deliver dedicated and affordable real estate services for the seniors of Toowoomba. A Toowoomba local, Bryan is an accomplished business leader with extensive experience engaging across all levels of government and industry sectors throughout Toowoomba and the Darling Downs. Bryan brings a unique and diverse knowledge of community, economic development and the broader property market to Picket Fence

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Affordable real estate services for the seniors of Toowoomba Properties. Their aim is to save you thousands. They won’t charge you a premium commission rate of 3 per cent just to pay for flashy offices, franchise fees and lots of assistants. They keep their overheads low so they can deliver the best value for money for clients, with a special commission rate for seniors of 2 per cent. Plus they offer affordable and effective marketing options that will save you even more.

Bryan explains: Why choose Picket Fence Properties to sell your home? ■ 2 per cent commission – we have low operating costs, which means we can pass those savings onto you. On a $400,000 sale, a traditional agency 3 per cent commission is $12,000, marketing $5000, total $17,000. At Picket Fence Properties 2 per cent commission $8000, marketing $1500, total $9500. Your savings: $7500. ■ Affordable marketing – we offer affordable and effective marketing campaigns ■ Personalised service ■ A dedicated agent – I’m with you every step of the way. For more, phone Bryan Gray on 0414 568 936 or email bryan@picketfence properties.com.au.

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SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

Planning ahead for the perfect lifestyle in your retirement Dianne Charman WHEN we finally start to see our retirement on the horizon a lot goes through our minds. We start to think about all the things we want to do but haven’t yet. The adventures and places we’ve always wanted to explore but never had the time to. We ask ourselves big questions like: what do I want to do for the next 30 to 40 years? Then we start to think about money. Do I have enough money to tick off all those things on my bucket list? I’m over work, but what happens when I no longer receive my fortnightly pay check? Will I/we be able to manage? We all have different goals. And each different retirement lifestyle brings with it its own unique set of questions. Here are some helpful pointers to help you navigate a few different types of retirement lifestyles. Globe trotter, cruiser or adventure seeker Firstly, you need to establish what kind of traveller you want to be. Are you a flash packer or backpacker? Are you looking to tick off as many places as you can off your list? Or, are you the kind of traveller that likes to really get a feel for the place they are visiting and stay put for a while? Establishing the above will help you determine your budget. I encourage my clients to think about their retirement savings in buckets: the income nest

Money

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big questions like: what do I want to do for the next 30 to 40 years? egg and the lifestyle bucket list funds. By keeping your funds separate you’re less likely to eat into your income fund. Knowing exactly how much you have in your nest egg and that you have enough to cover your day to day costs will bring peace of mind. This will give you the space to enjoy whatever adventure you choose to go on. The working retiree Sometimes our retirement is not about stopping paid work altogether. But it’s important to be very clear about why you are continuing to work. Working in retirement because we need to rather than because we want to isn’t retirement at all. We define retirement as ceasing work because you have enough money for the lifestyle you want. I tell my clients that they shouldn’t rely on their part time income. Some companies offer a Transition to Retirement approach which involves reducing your working hours over several years prior to retirement. This can valuable for both the employer (who doesn’t

MONEY ADVICE: No matter the retirement lifestyle you are hoping to achieve, planning ahead and early as possible will reap rewards. Photo: jacoblund lose valuable knowledge all at once) and the employee. Transition to retirement is a flexible option that allows you to work longer and retire later and on your terms, and rewards you for staying in the workforce by allowing you to access some of your super to make up your income to the required amount. However, as it can be complex, we strongly suggest you discuss your options with your super fund and seek licensed financial advice. There’s a difference between transitioning to retirement and having a part time job in

retirement. Be sure you know which one suits you best. Relocation retirement Whether you’re looking for a sea or a tree change, or you just want to downsize, it pays to do the numbers. Selling the family home is not a simple or easy decision and there are many financial, practical and emotional factors to consider. Clients will often say that they’ll top up their super with the “extra money” from downsizing their home. Sadly, the new smaller home in the dream location often comes with a similar or

higher price tag. But if you’re lucky enough to have money left over after you downsize you could look at using the government’s downsizing contribution scheme to add the extra money to your superannuation and top up your nest egg. The scheme is open to those who are aged 65 or over and sell their principal residence that they have owned for at least 10 years. If you tick that box, you are eligible to make a non-concessional contribution to super of up to $300,000 from the proceeds. Couples can contribute $300,000

each. Downsizing your home may have an impact on the amount of social security you receive because your Age Pension entitlement depends on the value of your assets and the amount of income you receive. No matter the retirement lifestyle you are hoping to achieve, planning ahead and early as possible will reap rewards. Dianne Charman, of Jade Financial Group, is an Authorised Representative of AMP Financial Planning Pty Ltd, ABN 89 051 208 327, AFS Licence No. 232706.

Small fees can have a big impact on savings Paul Clitheroe HUMAN beings love to save money. Yet when it comes to investing, we often pay high fees in the belief that this will lead to higher returns. Over time though, fees can have a devastating impact on our wealth. An annual investment fee of 1.5 per cent sounds small but it can carry a big punch. Over the past 30 years, for instance, Aussie shares have delivered returns averaging 9.2 per cent annually. If you’d invested $100,000 at the start of that period in a managed

fund (like your super) with an annual fee of 1.5 per cent, you’d now have $896,508. It sounds impressive, right? However, if you had invested that same $100,000 in a fund with annual fees of just 0.5 per cent, your investment would be worth $1,207, 807. That’s an extra $311,000 going straight into your pocket just because of lower fees. The impact of high fees is backed up by research from InvestSmart. It found that over 30 years, investors paying 2% in ongoing fees can sacrifice almost half (45%) of what their portfolio would have been

worth had they paid no fees at all. Of course, zero fees are a tad unrealistic. Even the best of us struggle to get costs down to zero, more so because investors can face a range of hidden costs like advice fees, implementation fees, and platform fees as well as product fees. They all add up. It’s easy to be seduced into thinking that you can beat market returns by paying higher fees. But consistently outperforming the market is very difficult – and it’s not necessarily related to the fees you pay. Over the last three years, funds that

‘‘

concentrate on what you can control – paying the lowest total percentage fee possible underperformed the market charged average annual fees of 1.71%. By contrast, funds that outperformed, charged fees averaging 1.43%. It goes to show that it

makes better sense to forget about out-performance and concentrate on what you can control – paying the lowest total percentage fee possible. THERE are three easy ways to do this. ■ Fold multiple super accounts into a single account Most super funds charge a fixed annual administration fee, so having more than one fund means doubling up on this fee. Consolidate your accounts and get all your money working for you in one place. ■ Know what you’re paying

If you use an adviser, ask them for a fee breakdown. Add in the direct fees paid on investments like super. It’s a fair bet you’re paying more than you realise. ■ Check if product fees are worth it If you invest only in index funds, which aim to mirror market returns, you really shouldn’t be paying much at all. Even if you go for something a little more fancy, aim for annual fees below one per cent – it can be done. Paul Clitheroe is Chairman of InvestSMART, Chairman of the Australian Government Financial Literacy Board and chief commentator for Money Magazine.

CLASSIFIEDS

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Call or place an ad online 13 11 13 or buysearchsell.com.au

Welcome to Australia’s leading network of trusted local classifieds

Trades & Services

Health & Beauty

HOME MAINTENANCE/ CABINET MAKER

Laidley Pioneer Village & Museum

General home maintenance Specialising in cabinet/timber work

ESTABLISHED IN 1972 QUEENSLAND’S FIRST PIONEER VILLAGE

Only work valued at $3,300 or less

7027952ad

Call Kath 0427 307 271

• Bus/Group Bookings Welcome Bus Groups Monday-Friday (No Public Holidays) Set Bus Menu and Pricing Available • Bike and Car Clubs Most Welcome.

106 Mulgowie Road

07 5465 9127

Computer & IT Services

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Home Care / Help

300,000 Australians currently suffer from Glaucoma. It is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide with virtually no warning signs. Early detection is key to help fight this disease!

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Rural Services

455 Ruthven St, Toowoomba

Suppliers of: • All rural needs • Pet Food • Stock feed • Hay and Chaff • Seed, chemical and fertilizer

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Olsens Produce

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13 Lyons Street, Warwick QLD P. 07 4661 2455 E. olsensproduce@westnet.com.au

Call 1800 935 483 to arrange your home care package. lwb.org.au/agedcare

SEPTIC SERVICE

TerryWhite Chemmart Drayton 48 Brisbane Street, Drayton P: 4614 0377 F: 4614 0367 E: drayton@terrywhitechemmart.com.au Monday-Friday: Saturday: Sunday:

8am-7pm 8am-5pm 9am-5pm

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Phone: 4696 1235

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• Situated in the quaint country town of Cambooya, 10 minutes from Toowoomba on the Warwick Road. • Experience the authentic 1900’s old world atmosphere • Lunch and dinner 7 days • The ultimate dining experience, delicious gourmet menu • Seriously good coffee, daily meal specials, take away meals & pizzas • Comfortable quality country style accommodation

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

CLASSIFIEDS

Property

Motoring

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Caravans & Motor Homes

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REVIEWS

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

Rescued against all the odds

Are we friends?

PEOPLE went on about death bringing friends together, but it wasn’t true. The graveyard, the stony dirt - that’s what it was like now. From the author of The Natural Way of Things, Charlotte Wood, The Weekend is a tale of three women who know each other better than their own siblings, But, their friend Sylvie’s death opens up strange caverns of distance between them. Four older women have a lifelong friendship of the best kind: loving, practical, frank and steadfast. But when Sylvie dies, the ground shifts dangerously for the remaining three. Can they survive together without her? They are Jude, a once-famous restaurateur, Wendy, an acclaimed public intellectual, and Adele, a renowned actress now mostly out of work. Struggling to recall exactly why they’ve remained close all these years, the grieving women gather for Christmas at Sylvie’s old beach house – not for festivities, but to clean the place out before it is sold. Without Sylvie to maintain the group’s delicate equilibrium, frustrations build and painful memories press in. Fraying tempers, an elderly dog, unwelcome guests and too much wine collide in a storm that brings long-buried hurts to the surface –

True colour revealed in new novel

and threatens to sweep away their friendship for good. The Weekend explores growing old and growing up, and

Grandmother run-arounds

A FUNNY and heartwarming novel about four very different grandmothers, from the bestselling author Salley Vickers. Grandmothers follows four grandmothers. Blanche can't seem to stop stealing things from the local pharmacy. Minna just wants a quiet life in her shepherd's hut, though the local children have other ideas. Cherry is adjusting to life in a care home. And Nan, whose favourite occupation is researching funerals. All four lives and the grandchildren become

‘‘

Seriously, how much adventure and fun can four grand -mothers cope with? unexpectedly entangled in Salley Vickers’s Grandmothers. In bookshops from November 14. Published by Penguin, RRP$32.99.

what happens when we’re forced to uncover the lies we tell ourselves. A celebration of tenderness and

friendship that is nothing short of a masterpiece. Published by Allen & Unwin. RRP $29.99.

CAPTAIN James Cook is one of the most recognisable names in Australian history; an almost mythic figure who is often discussed, celebrated, reviled and debated. But who was the real James Cook? Australian author Peter FitzSimons reveals in his new novel who was the real James Cook. This Yorkshire farm boy would go on to become the foremost mariner, scientist, navigator and cartographer of his era, and to personally map a third of the globe. His great voyages of discovery were incredible feats of seamanship and navigation. Leading a crew of men into uncharted territories, Cook would face the best and worst of humanity as he took himself and his crew to the edge of the known world – and beyond. Focusing on his most iconic expedition, the voyage of the Endeavour, where Cook first set foot on Australian and New Zealand soil, author FitzSimons contrasts Cook against another figure who looms large in Australasian history: Joseph Banks, the aristocratic botanist.

IT’S the inside account of the breathtaking Thai cave rescue that captured the world. In Against All Odds Australians of Year 2019 Dr Craig Challen SC OAM and Dr Richard Harris SC OAM share their story of the Tham Luang cave rescue Challen is an Australian veterinary surgeon, technical diver and cave explorer. His partner in the story is Richard Harris, an Australian anaesthetist and cave diver who played a crucial role in the rescue. “I just want to warn you. You’re going to dive to the end of the cave. You’re going to see these kids. They’re all looking healthy and happy and smiley. Then, you’re going to swim away, and they’re probably all going to die.” In June 2018, for 17 days, the world watched and held its breath as the Wild Boar soccer team were trapped deep in a cave in Thailand. Marooned beyond flooded cave passages after unexpected rains, they were finally rescued, one-by-one, against almost impossible odds, by an international cave-diving team which included Dr Harris and Dr Challen. Published by Penguin. RRP $34.99.

Hachette RRP $49.99.

Dementia home design MOST people who live with dementia want to live in the familiar comfort of their own home and maintain engagement with their community. Associate Professor Colm Cunningham with Agnes Houston MBE and Natalie Duggan have written My home, my life. The book is packed with practical ideas for people with dementia and carers, and brings together the voice of people with dementia and carers with the best learning from research and care experience to provide insightful tips and

strategies. To get your copy of My home, my life, go to hammond.com.au/shop/ dementia-and-aged-care/ my-home-my-life. Cost $19.99.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2019

G E N E R A L K N O W L E D G E

PUZZLES 3

Across 1 Which Japanese city hosted the 1972 Winter Olympics and has an annual ice and snow sculpture festival? (7) 4 What do we call the costume of a nun or monk? (5) 7 What British nobleman ranks below a marquess and above a viscount? (4) 8 What did Gene Roddenberry create? (4,4) 10 What is a colloquial expression for an amorous glance? (3,4,3) 12 What dung-beetle was considered sacred in ancient Egypt? (6) 13 Where did Sophia Loren spend her childhood? (6) 15 Who was the author of A Spaniard in the Works? (4,6) 18 What wine bottle is about six times the size of a standard bottle? (8) 19 What is a mark left by a whip? (4) 20 Which card game was a forerunner of bridge? (5) 21 What is the white part of an egg? (7)

8 9

10 11 12

13 14 15

17 18

Down 1 In what sport are ﬂying clay targets used? (5) 2 What hard, sharp-tasting cow’s milk cheese is used primarily in grated form? (8) 3 What are groups or series of eight? (6) 4 With whose band did Frank Sinatra make his ﬁrst recordings? (5,5) 5 From what part of the cork oak does cork come? (4) 6 What are the proceeds from a period of selling? (7) 9 Gymnastics was given a new lease of life as a sport by which gymnast at the 1972 Olympics? (4,6) 11 Sir Winston Churchill was born at which palace? (8) 12 Colloquially in the United States, what part of a town is frequented by vagrants and alcoholics? (4,3) 14 What is the capital of Turkey? (6) 16 What material is most commonly used for brush bristles? (5) 17 Which language used to be called Siamese? (4)

39 26/10

SUDOKU

QUICK CROSSWORD

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

DOUBLECROSS

8 9

Find a ﬁnished crossword by deleting one of the two letters in each divided square.

11 12 13

15 16

19 20

5x5

ALPHAGRAMS: EXALT, FEARED, GARNETS, HARDWARE, INSINUATE. GK CROSSWORD Across: 1 Sapporo, 4 Habit, 7 Earl, 8 Star Trek, 10 The glad eye, 12 Scarab, 13 Naples, 15 John Lennon, 18 Rehoboam, 19 Weal, 20 Whist, 21 Albumen. Down: 1 Skeet, 2 Parmesan, 3 Octads, 4 Harry James, 5 Bark, 6 Takings, 9 Olga Korbut, 11 Blenheim, 12 Skid Row, 14 Ankara, 16 Nylon, 17 Thai. QUICK CROSSWORD Across: 1. Bars 3. Focussed 9. Reliant 10. Cried 11. Insufferable 13. Reveal 15. Pledge 17. In the long run 20. Hindu 21. Tremble 22. Worsened 23. Alms. Down: 1. Barriers 2. Rules 4. Outset 5. Unchallenged 6. Skilled 7. Dodo 8. Halfway house 12. Keenness 14. Vintner 16. Blithe 18. Rebel 19. Thaw.

A H

C I

S E E R S

N Y

S P

E G G E D

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.

TODAY: Good 18 Very Good 25 Excellent 30

R E A V E

WORD GO ROUND

A I S L E

DOUBLECROSS

B L U E R

SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU

ALPHAGRAMS 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.

LATEX DEAFER STRANGE HER AWARD ANNUITIES

5x5

R I

G A

L R

Insert the missing letters to make ten words — ﬁve reading across the grid and ﬁve reading down.

Note: more than one solution may be possible.

E E

SOLUTION

Down 1. Obstacles (8) 2. Statutes (5) 4. Commencement (6) 5. Uncontested (12) 6. Proﬁcient (7) 7. Extinct bird (4) 8. Midpoint in a progression (7,5) 12. Enthusiasm (8) 14. Wine seller (7) 16. Cheerful (6) 18. Dissenter (5) 19. Melt (4)

Across 1. Excludes (4) 3. Concentrated (8) 9. Dependent (7) 10. Wept (5) 11. Intolerable (12) 13. Disclose (6) 15. Promise (6) 17. Over time (2,3,4,3) 20. Indian religion (5) 21. Quiver (7) 22. Deteriorated (8) 23. Charity (4)

apish aspic chain chains chin china chins chip chips hiya inch nips pain pains panic panics phasic physic PHYSICIAN pica pinch pins piny piscina pish shin shiny ship snip spicy spin spinach spiny

TOOWOOMBA

NOVEMBER, 2019// SENIORS

GemLife.com.au/ghf

GemLife offers luxury resort-style living with world-class lifestyle facilities on your doorstep. No entry, exit fees or stamp duty Friendly community

Highfields. A whole new life.

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GemLife over 50s lifestyle resorts. New homes now selling.

*Conditions apply.

Call 1800 910 278 QUEENSLAND • NEW SOUTH WALES • VICTORIA