Toowoomba, November 2018 by seniors

November, 2018

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BRENDAN HARRIS – COMMENTARY FROM

THE NEW OLDER MAN

VERY FISHY! BASS TO BARRA TRAIL PAGE 18

SENIORS SAY GET RID OF STEREOTYPES BECAUSE EVERY AGE COUNTS PAGE 23

Ways to look good, feel healthy and stay in the business of life– INSIDE

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NOVEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

EveryAGE story-makers Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor

Wellbeing

33 What’s on INDEX 3 4 6 9 11 15 23 27 28 34 35

Killarney remembers Brendan Harris cover story Education way forward Talk ‘n’ Thoughts Regional Retirement Living Wanderlust Wellbeing Living Money Community Group Guide Puzzles

THIS month we update you on the Benevolent Society’s EveryAGE Counts campaign. For our part in the campaign we bring you a story package created by our Seniors News intern, Channing Courtney-Eman. My challenge for the 22-year-old fashion and marketing student was to come up with a story, pictures and video of the ‘new, mature-aged man’. Channing set out and discovered Brisbane’s Brendan Harris and brought in young photographer Nicholas Sterkenburg to snap the great fashion shots. All in all this assignment was completed by a small group of people from 20 to 60 years old and certainly EveryAGE counted. The story fits nicely with Movember – while the goal of Australia’s national men’s health month is to raise awareness of men’s cancers, another dimension of good health is feeling the freedom to express yourself and I thought Brendan’s style and outlook demonstrated a strong sense of self and well-being. That’s just what Movember Ambassador, radio and television personality

Jonathan Coleman (who some of you may remember as a reporter on Simon Townsend’s Wonderworld) is espousing as he shares his first hand experience of prostrate cancer and urges men to pursue a healthy lifestyle. We realise that many seniors are investigating alternative housing style. To support your decisionmaking, our Living section features an extensive article pointing to the factors that need consideration when making housing decisions. Furthermore, housing affordability poses a serious challenge. My interview with two women affected by the winding down of the National Rental Assistance Scheme is a snapshot of the ready-made social problems about to happen in the wake of the scheme’s demise. There’s more inside, so grab a cuppa, sit down and enjoy.

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 Brett Mauger – 07 5435 3203 brett.mauger@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Online Get your news online at www.seniorsnews.com.au Advertising, editorial and distribution enquiries Phone: 1300 880 265 or (07) 5435 3200 Email: advertising@seniorsnewspaper.com.au or editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Location: 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore 4558 Website: www.seniorsnews.com.au Subscriptions Only $39.90 for one year (12 editions) including GST and postage anywhere in Australia. Please call our circulations services on 1300 361 604 and quote “Brisbane 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, 2018

NEWS

Killarney remembers Deadly tornado 50 years on

Alison Houston NOVEMBER 22 is not a day to celebrate in Killarney but it is a day to give thanks to all those who helped the town survive the storm that almost destroyed it 50 years ago. On that day a 10-yearold girl was killed and 200 of the town’s 247 houses were decimated. To mark the event, residents will meet this Thursday, November 22, at the Uniting Church in Eucalyptus St, at 5.30pm. Storm committee secretary Angela Phillips said the service, and sausage sizzle to follow, was a chance for the community to show the spirit that got it through that disastrous day, and hopefully bring closure to some who still suffer from its effects. Angela is involved with the heritage centre and, while she only moved to Killarney in a “tree change” four years ago, said the tornado that blew through all those decades

ago was “still very much part of the town’s fabric”. It was speech night at the school, and the majority of the population was gathered for the event in the Capitol Theatre, when the storm hit at 8pm. Miraculously, it was one of the few buildings not destroyed. “Everyone says it felt like the building was going to blow away,” Angela said. The men held the doors of the theatre closed as the 10-minute storm wreaked its havoc, reducing much of the town to rubble and leaving it without power and with inches of hail on the ground. The Girls’ Brigade had been rehearsing Christmas carols at the then-Presbyterian Church (now Uniting) when the storm struck, and 10-year-old Susan Ballard was killed by the fall of a loose brick. Her mother, Shirley Ballard, will unveil a commemorative plaque in Canning Park at 10am on

SO MUCH TO DO: Close-ups of the work ahead of the little town of Killarney to rebuild in 1968. Photo: SUPPLIED BY KILLARNEY ST Sunday, November 25. “Most of the houses and shops were affected – it hit every family, and some moved away never to return,” Angela said. “It was the start of the Joh Bjelke-Petersen era and he flew in and was instrumental in diverting troops, who were coming back from Vietnam for Christmas leave, to come and help the town rebuild. “But it was very much a grass-roots effort.” Tradies from across the region lent a hand and, across the state, toys,

clothing, other goods and even holidays were donated to families, many of whom had been left with nothing. “Some people have kept those things as family treasures, and they will be part of our display on the night,” Angela said. From Brisbane, buses took electricians, plumbers and builders out to Killarney to help reconstruct the town. “We really want people who helped in the rebuilding to come back and be part of this, so we

can thank them … because we survived, and it’s thanks to you,” Angela said. A dinner will also be held at the Recreation Centre at 6pm on Saturday, November 24, with former representative Lawrence Springborg as guest speaker and other entertainment ($30). Angela admitted there were mixed feelings in town about the commemoration, with some people still traumatised by the event wanting it to be left in the

past, while others felt it was fitting to mark the anniversary. “At the 40th anniversary, people wrote their stories of that time, and we are reprinting that and adding pictures of what Killarney is like now,” Angela said. They will also play a video of past interviews. “We really hope that this will get people involved in talking about Killarney in a positive way, because it was touch and go for a while but the town did survive, and it thrived.” Killarney Area Promotions Association has recently created an impressive new website at killarney.org.au, detailing the area’s spectacular natural attractions and country hospitality, which make it popular with cyclists, motorcyclists, walkers, horse riders, 4WDers, and tourists in general. To find out more about Back to Killarney: 50 Years Since the Tornado, go to killarney.org.au, or phone (07) 4664 4289 or 0499 767 907.

Updates from the Toowoomba Region Council Meetings

Meaningful mulching

The next meetings of Council’s Standing Committees will be held on 13 and 14 November commencing at 9am. The next Ordinary Meeting of Council will be held on 20 November commencing at 10am. All meetings are at City Hall, 541 Ruthven Street, Toowoomba.

All of our waste facilities in the Toowoomba Region have beautiful free mulch available for collection. Adding mulch reduces moisture loss and adds nutrients to the soil. For a list of waste facilities where you can collect your free mulch, call us or visit our website.

For all residents in the Toowoomba Region over 80, celebrate the festive season and come join the Mayor’s Over 80s Christmas Party! Thursday 29 November at Founders Pavilion, Toowoomba Showgrounds, 10am11.30am. Bookings required so contact us if you’d like to attend! RSVPs close Wednesday 14 November.

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CHANGE Project A range of low-cost opportunities are available in the Toowoomba Region each week to help residents get out and be active. For full details and to join visit www.tr.qld.gov.au/change

My Community Directory The My Community Directory lists organisations that provide services that are free or subsidised to the public in thousands of location across Australia. These services are aligned into various Community Directories. Check it out at www.mycommunitydirectory.com.au

Leave the concert recharged for 2019 and just in time to watch the fireworks on the Brisbane River

For bookings for all events call 131 872 or visit www.tr.qld.gov.au

Water Restrictions We’ve introduced medium level water restrictions to a number of communities across the region including Hodgson Vale, Valeview, Cambooya, Clifton, Greenmount, Pittsworth (including Brookstead and Southbrook), Cecil Plains and Yarraman. This is to preserve our underground water supplies and bores. For more information on the restrictions and what areas are affected, call us or visit www.tr.qld.gov.au/water

Council Cabs The Council Cab service provides affordable transport for seniors and people with a disability. Eligible users can travel from their home to their nearest major shopping centre one day a week. The service allows residents to enjoy greater independence and convenience without relying on friends and family for shopping or socialising. For eligibility criteria and locations of the service in your area call 131 872 or visit www.tr.qld. gov.au/councilcabs TRC_1118_SN

Mayor’s Over 80s Christmas Party

COVER STORY

NOVEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

A new style for the Channing Courtney-Eman MENSWEAR has taken on a whole new look this year. Liberated from the stereotypes of the past, mature-aged men are free to explore, design and shape their identity through fashion choices. After previous generations of older men were doomed to a uniform of the ordinary – think navy blue boxers, boardies, singlets, thongs and grey suits – the fresh palette of fashion comes as a bright relief. Fashions have broadened the horizon and today there is appreciation for the male who can dress up – or dress down, according to the day. Brisbane’s Brendan Harris naturally personifies the new older man. He’s a well-travelled businessman with a gregarious personality which makes him the perfect personality to run Cafe on the Goodwill Bridge. In this article, Brendan talks about his upbringing, shares his

COFFEE CODE: Brendan Harris up-front in smart, casual work-mode in Brisbane.

Photos: Nicholas Sterkenburg

tips on looking great and how to live your best life after 50. Brendan’s fashion passion began while growing up as the middle child of the Harris boys in the hinterland of Queensland’s Mt Tamborine. Brendan

But fashion pulled at the thread of his personality and existence – channelling his passion into creating the pocket square business A Pocket Affair. “My pocket squares are rectangular, you wear them individually of

jokingly blames the middle-child syndrome for his bold dress. “I would get the hand-me-downs, so instead I got a job and bought my own clothes,” he tells Seniors News. He went on to travel the world and studied in

Devon, England, where he obtained his hospitality qualifications. Back in Australia, he spent large parts of his career working in the Brisbane hospitality scene and managing community venues for Gold Coast City Council.

course, or double them up to get a maximum, structural textured effect,” he said. But it’s not just Brendan’s pocket squares that make him stand out in the crowd. Ultimately, his style is determined, show-stopping at times and experimental. “I believe in pushing the limits,” he said. “First impressions are so important, any age, young, old, it doesn’t matter, my motto is it’s just as easy to put on a nice shirt as it is a horrible one.” He proves the point when he matches sheer black tops under suit jackets. Silk, he explains, is his favourite fabric. “Silk comes in so many textures and blends, silk wool is absolutely beautiful and the saturation of colour is always good,” he said. A combination of traditional and edgy jewellery is another integral part of his look. His hero pieces feature the daily wearing of a Louis Vuitton flip coin ring. “I usually wear my

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2018

COVER STORY

older male

wedding band, my engagement ring, and my signet ring plus a nice watch,” he said. Meanwhile, his shoe closet is lined with local brands and designers including his favoured RM Williams boots. In terms of eye wear, Brendan regularly rocks a sleek tortoise shell pair of Tom Ford. Alternatively, Chanel glasses, he notes, are always a good fit. But most importantly, he claims, sunglasses should complement your face and not put them under any stress. On the topic of staples for the average man, Brendan declares every man should have a navy-blue suit in their wardrobe coupled with a cotton stretch white shirt. “A good fitting navy blue suit can take you from the day to the evening, looks great against silver hair of course,” he said. “(And keep) a clean white shirt and one spare that you haven’t touched for that special occasion.” Personal care is another aspect of Brendan’s routine. He keeps up

Louis Vuitton flip coin ring and Breitling watch.

‘‘

First impressions are so important, at any age, young old. appearances with two weekly barber visits and his job, positioned in the brunt of the bright Australian sun, prompts him to use skin products that cope with the harsh light. “I use the majority of Aesop products, Kiehl’s day and evening oil, sunscreen is a must,” he said. Another must-do for the

well-being of the older gentleman is travel. Brendan stresses that be it local or overseas, going on holiday is an essential part of his lifestyle. But that doesn’t mean you can leave the suit at home. Here’s his suitcase for a weekend away to Burleigh Heads. “Tailored shorts, a really nice linen jacket that’s only half-lined, paired with a bright colour,” he muses. “And I’d suggest, at the moment, a really nice cherry red and a nice pair of loafers always with invisible socks.” And it seems men are taking notice of Brendan’s unique and bold style advice. “I have picked up quite a few fellows who want to be styled, it’s a matter of taking them places that I know will fit for them,” he said. Finally, the relaxed fashionista has some simple advice. “Just have fun, fun with your wardrobe and your food.” For story and photo gallery, see the website seniorsnews.com.au.

BRISBANE BEAUTY: Brendan poses against a backdrop of bougainvillea.

Photos: Nicholas Sterkenburg

RM Williams boots with bespoke pants.

Suited up on Goodwill Bridge, Brisbane.

Don’t leave it too late! The lifestyle is what you want it to be.” Lynn, Drayton Villas resident

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NEWS

NOVEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Education way forward Ask if indigenous people are involved, and if not, why not?

Alison Houston NAIDOC celebrations had an encore at USQ (University of Southern Cross, Toowoomba) last month, with the inaugural NAIDOC Ball. The theme, as during NAIDOC Week, was Because of Her, We Can. Seniors Newspaper caught up with one of the speakers, Professor Tracey Bunda, head of USQ’s College for Indigenous Studies, Education and Research, to find out how indigenous experiences had changed over the past 30 years of her involvement in higher education. A Ngugi/Wakka Wakka woman, Tracey said there was undoubtedly still stereotyping and lack of understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues within the community. But she said NAIDOC Week, which began as just a day of celebration back in the 1930s, was

continuing to grow in depth and provide a vehicle for education and understanding between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and non-indigenous people. “I think we’re on a road to change, but with every process there are roadblocks … There needs to be a real commitment to change – a genuine dissatisfaction in the way things are,” Tracey said. Greater understanding would come through increased engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and she urged seniors to take advantage of opportunities to become involved in cultural activities and events. “The only thing we’re limited by is our ability to think creatively about how we can make these engagements happen,” Tracey said. “People need to be willing to listen to what the indigenous voice is saying, even if it’s

MAKING A CHANGE: Professor Tracey Bunda, head of USQ's College for Indigenous Studies, Education and Research, speaks at the inaugural NAIDOC Ball. Photo: Array different, or the reverse of what you think you know or understand. “It’s important to have a greatness of spirit … to think about where you are, think about your community, your sphere of influence and ‘ask are indigenous people involved?’ “And if not, what can be

done to make that happen.” Tracey’s passion for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander progress in higher education began 30 years ago at the Gippsland Institute of Victoria’s Koori Program. She said the number of indigenous students involved in university

studies at all levels from diplomas to undergraduate degrees, masters and doctorates had never been greater than it presently is. “But what becomes critical is being able to keep those students at university to complete their degrees,” she said. “Often our students –

including the many mature age students – are first in family, so that means those students are pioneering something no other family member has done before, so that sets up a whole range of challenges for them to progress through.” Among hurdles to be overcome is the presumption that every student will have access to computers or the internet, with many coming from highly disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds, which also affects their ability to relocate to attend tertiary education. “Having said that, for those students who do engage and can successfully complete their education, it does change the trajectory; it does make an impact on the next generation, and that’s got to be a good thing,” Tracey said. “That’s why I’m so invested in education: to help make that change.” Professor Bunda is proud of the students who initiated the inaugural NAIDOC Ball.

50 ION LY T N LA O AL EF T ST L

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SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2018

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SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2018

NEWS

Talk 'n' thoughts

Threefold answer to housing needs

VITAL ACTION NEEDED TO HOUSE SENIORS AS POPULATION REACHES BOILING POINT CEO of Queensland’s largest social and affordable housing provider, Horizon Housing, is calling for immediate affordable housing action for Australia’s ever-increasing ageing population. – Jason Cubit

FUTURE: Affordable housing needs to be addressed.

Photo: Paul Vasarhelyi

‘‘

Horizon Housing is part of Community Housing Limited, Australia’s largest community and affordable housing provider.

THE POPULATION PREDICAMENT IT’S Australia’s startling reality; earlier this year our population reached 25 million. An impressive yet eerie milestone for a figure that skipped the queue, arriving 33 years ahead of its original forecast. According to the last census, there are 3.7 million Australians over 65 years old. Within the next 40 years, an outstanding one in four Australians will form part of this demographic – that is approximately 8.7 million

Australians over the age of 65. Each year, Anglicare Australia conducts research on the current private rental market to assess if it’s possible for low income earners to afford appropriate accommodation. This year’s Rental Affordability Snapshot revealed, of 67,365 properties listed for rent in March this year, there are only about 833 rental properties in Australia considered affordable and appropriate for single pensioners. This disconcerting number will only decrease as the first houses under the Government’s National Rental Affordability Scheme begin to wind down in December this year. WHO IS MOST AT RISK? OVER our 25 year history, Horizon Housing has identified an increasing trend in demand for housing from older people, particularly older single women unable to

support themselves in the private market. Older Australian women are particularly vulnerable to homelessness later-in-life. According to Mission Australia (2017), contributing factors include low superannuation funds available, financial dependence on the pension and domestic and family violence. Couple this with the systemic norm of spending significant time out of the workforce to raise a family and we are left with more women who become susceptible to housing stress and homelessness with age. It’s a nationwide tragedy that the average superannuation of women at retirement is about half of men (46.6 per cent), according to a study by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2016). With figures as startling as this, where on earth do we even start?

THE SOLUTION HORIZON seeks to provide the affordable housing to those disadvantaged in our community. However, demand for services is – and will continue to be – staggeringly high. The Affordable Housing Portfolio has a waiting list reviewed every three months with an average of 250 applicants. About 16 per cent of our 2500 properties across the Horizon Housing portfolio are tenanted by people over the age of 55. Of this number, 60 per cent rely on government assistance as their main source of income, with little money to spare by the end of the week. The solution is three-fold. Increased, diverse affordable housing options, better support to age in place and an increased financial assistance for our pensioners is key. Easier said than done, yes, but I am confident that it can be done.

NEWS

NOVEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2018

SPECIAL FEATURE

REGIONAL RETIREMENT LIVING UPDATE

Informed retirement choices give security Jessica Kinnear

SATSIFIED RESIDENTS: Retirement villages offer a great option for people who are keen to be part of a community and access great facilities. RIGHT: Jessica Kinnerar. finding that the average two-bedroom unit is priced at less than 70 per cent of the median house price in the same postcode. External house and garden maintenance and repairs is also usually taken care of which removes the stress which comes with having to maintain the family home as you age. If you like to imagine your later years spent playing tennis or lawn bowls with friends, swimming in a pool close by or having access to a nearby library, gym or craft lessons, you should investigate retirement living. It’s often fun activities like these that

entice people to make the switch. Cons: Living in a retirement living community inherently entails living with others and with this comes rules and regulations about what you can and can’t do. While village management is there to help foster a vibrant village life and encourage resident interaction, their job is also to ensure rules and regulations are maintained. If people haven’t lived in a community before, they may be in for a shock to realise that there are other residents’ interests that need to be

considered, such as restrictions around pet ownership, car parking and the extent to which you can make changes to your home and garden. Retirement villages are typically structured around three types of fees; entry fees, ongoing fees and departure fees. The operators usually make their profit at the ‘departure’ end of the deal, but a narrow understanding of the model can lead to prospective residents and their families feeling overwhelmed and distrustful. Different types of retirement living: There are different

retirement living accommodation options. These include independent living, serviced apartment accommodation or assisted living (where personal services such as cleaning, laundry and meals are provided), rental accommodation (where the resident pays an ongoing rental) and lastly land lease communities otherwise known as manufactured home parks or lifestyle communities (where the resident owns the physical building but leases the land/site upon which the building sits from the community owner).

Jessica Kinnear is the founder of Compare Villages, Australia’s first website helping Australians to comprehensively compare retirement living accommodation. A former lawyer in the space, Jessica saw the need for a comparison service that allows users to specify the type of property they want, the lifestyle features that appeal to them, and provides transparency and clarity around fees. comparevillages.com.au

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^Visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitionterms for full competition terms and conditions. Promoter is ARM Specialist Media Pty Ltd of 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore Qld 4558. Promotional period 12/11/18-30/11/18. Competition drawn 2pm 3/12/18 at Cnr Mayne Rd and Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006. Winners announced in Seniors February Edition 2019. Total prize value $400.00 (including GST). Entry is open to all permanent residents of Queensland, residing in the Gold Coast and Toowoomba Seniors distribution areas and NSW in the Northern NSW, Central Coast and Coffs & Clarence Seniors distribution areas. NSW Permit Number LTPM/18/03133

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Is a retirement village right for you? In terms of deciding to move into a retirement community, like with any significant decision, there are pros and cons that are worth taking into account. The decision is likely to be your last independent move so it’s one you want to get right. Pros: The lifestyle features, services provided, activities offered and social interactions has been found to delay the need for aged care. Independent research by Grant Thornton finds that village residents live independently for five years longer than the national average, delaying their entry into the residential aged care system. According to the report, living in a retirement village reduces the number of hospital admissions and improves the social well-being of residents. As retirement villages are purpose built, age appropriate designs such as ramps and railings help reduce accidents. The common problems of social isolation and depression are counteracted by the community support offered by the other village residents.(1) They’re mostly an affordable downsizing proposition with the 2017 PwC/Property Council Retirement Census

Resident satisfaction survey results show that village residents are happy and satisfied with their move. The negatives largely stem from residents not properly understanding what they were getting into. When considering what sort of retirement village might best suit, it’s a mix of considerations including location, lifestyle features, services provided or offered and any access to aged care services together with Contractual and financial considerations. It’s imperative to visit different villages, find out what it’s like to actually live there (meet the village manager and the residents’ committee) and get legal and financial advice before you decide. (1. Reference: Grant Thornton: Property Council of Australia: National Overview of the Retirement Village Sector, 2014).

SPECIAL FEATURE

NOVEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

REGIONAL RETIREMENT LIVING UPDATE

RESORT-STYLE LIVING: Apartments are available to buy off the plan now, with construction due to start in January.

The retirement alternative

THERE’S never been a better time to be older than 50. This generation is generally healthier, wealthier than those which preceded us and, of course, with age comes wisdom. The wisdom to choose the lifestyle that will best suit the next exciting phase of your life. The kids have grown up, you may even have grandchildren, you may be retired or semi-retired. Whatever your

situation, one thing is sure – it is time for you to finally fulfil those dreams of sunshine, sand and surf. Cube Developments, based on the Sunshine Coast, has used its 20-plus years of experience in property development to custom design, build and market projects in key lifestyle locations perfectly suited to the downsizing sea-changer. With uncompromising

attention to detail and quality – from aesthetic appeal through to tasteful luxury interiors – Cube has brought Curve Birtinya to the market and it is now capturing the deserved attention of the over 50s market. Curve Birtinya offers a genuine freehold alternative to retirement living, where you own your own apartment and benefit from future capital gains. These architectdesigned north-facing

Offering one, two and three-bedroom apartments, most with water views.

apartments on beautiful Lake Kawana are adjacent to parkland and just metres to Birtinya’s multi-billion dollar health and lifestyle precinct. This 55-apartment complex offers a mixture of one, two and threebedroom apartments, most with water views from private balconies. The two and threebedroom apartments feature two separate living areas and high-end fixtures and fittings.

Residents of Curve Birtinya can enjoy enviable resort-style living with onsite facilities including in-ground pool, gymnasium, and communal barbecue areas among lush sub-tropical gardens. They’re pet-friendly and within walking distance to the beach, boutique cafes and local shops so there’s no excuse not to keep fit and active. And with its amazing climate and stunning

Enviable resort-style living with on-site facilities.

natural beauty, there’s no better place to live than the Sunshine Coast. Apartments are available to buy off the plan now, with construction due to start January 2019. The sales display office is located at Lot 933 Prosperity Drive, Birtinya (open daily except Wednesdays) or contact Steve Horridge on 0419 805 032 or go to curvebirtinya.com.au.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2018

SPECIAL FEATURE

The ultimate retirement alternative na Construc t starting ion January in 2019

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A genuine freehold alternative to retirement living. Curve Birtinya offers a genuine freehold alternative to retirement living, where you own your own apartment and benefit from future capital gains. These architect-designed north-facing apartments on beautiful Lake Kawana are adjacent to parkland and just metres to Birtinyaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s multi-billion dollar health and lifestyle precinct. Curve Birtinya is comprised of 55 luxury apartments, most with water views from private balconies. The luxury fit outs include high quality appliances and specifications with space to entertain â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and room to breathe. Take your place in this much sought after beachside community today. For further information Contact: Steve Horridge 0419 805 032

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SPECIAL FEATURE

NOVEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

REGIONAL RETIREMENT LIVING UPDATE

A new concept in over 50s living BRAND INSIGHTS LOOKING for a luxury home in a beautiful location? First-class facilities in a secure, gated community? A focus on lifestyle, wellbeing and health? Welcome to GemLife Highfields. Since commencing operations two years ago, GemLife has rapidly gained a reputation for their innovative approach to over-50s living. Their resort at Highfields has just released Stage Two and is attracting strong buyer interest.

GemLife Sales and Marketing Manager, Andrew Coulter, attributes the success to the company’s unique offering. “GemLife resorts have four key points of difference,” said Mr Coulter. “First, we don’t charge entry or exit fees, and home owners retain 100 per cent of capital gain. This provides transparency and certainty for home buyers. “Second, the properties themselves are architecturally designed, spacious and feature top-of-the-range appliances and fittings. These are luxury two and

UNIQUE LIFESTYLE: GemLife Highfields has a focus on lifestyle, wellbeing and health. three-bedroom homes. “Third, location is paramount,” said Mr Coulter. “GemLife looks for naturally beautiful surroundings complemented by a thriving local community. Residents can take advantage of on-site facilities but also have convenient access to local business and shopping precincts. “Finally, the focus is

very much on an active and social close-knit community. GemLife was developed specifically for over-50s wanting to embrace an active lifestyle and social network, and at the same time enjoy a luxury, low-maintenance home. We call it ‘right-sizing’ rather than down-sizing. It’s a lifestyle concept that suits a wide range of people, whether retired or

still working.” The formula is working well. In addition to Highfields, GemLife has resorts in Bribie Island, Maroochydore, Lennox Head and Woodend with more developments scheduled. GemLife homes feature spacious two or three-bedroom designs, flexible entertaining spaces, top-of-the-range appliances, two-car garages, and provision for

boat or caravan storage. Resort facilities encourage an active and social community with indoor and outdoor pools, gymnasium, tennis court, bowling green, games room, bowling alley, beauty salon and spa. Contact GemLife Highfields for information or to arrange a site tour on 1800 910 278.

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SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2018

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

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NOVEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

The red crabs of Christmas Island are an impressive sight.

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rest on the glorious beaches and watch with wonder the wildlife

NEW DESTINATION: The Dales on Christmas Island.

Photos: Christmas Island Tourism

Christmas Island – a natural wonder THE natural wonders of Christmas Island are back on the tourism industry radar with the island operators ready to welcome visitors. After a difficult decade of playing second fiddle to national politics, the island’s status has changed which means it is closed to detainees and only operational should the need arise. Located 2600km northwest of Perth, it’s a place savvy travellers will

visit soon, before the rest of the world realises the island re-opened for business. Bird watchers, scuba divers, naturalists and eco-tourists will enjoy the experience of Christmas Island. Swell Lodge, a luxury cabin perched atop a sea cliff that is already attracting international visitors. Extra Divers, a global diving conglomerate, recently opened its first

Australian dive centre on the island. National and international icons sing the praises of the island’s stunning marine life. You can swim, snorkel and scuba dive with whale sharks, rest easy on the glorious deserted beaches and watch with wonder the wildlife that exists nowhere else on the planet. “I’ve been to many places on this earth and

Christmas Island is one of the most fantastic,” adventurer and entrepreneur Dick Smith said. Celebrated naturalist Sir David Attenborough described the annual march of the island’s endemic red crabs as “one of the most spectacular migrations on the planet”. For more information go to www.christmas.net.au.

The Swell Lodge on Christmas Island.

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A Red Footed Booby on Christmas Island.

The Grotto on Christmas Island.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2018

BE SOFTLY serenaded while immersed in the sights and sounds of a delightful destination as entertainer Fortunato Isgro takes Go See Touring groups on a journey of a lifetime. On each of his hosted journeys Fortunato shares his love of ’50s, ’60s and early ’70s music, covering songs from famous singers such as Dean Martin, Engelbert Humperdinck, Tom Jones and Elvis Presley. “It’s a fun week of mixing with great people, being entertained and enjoying ourselves,” Fortunato said. The easygoing tours are for small groups of up to 30 people. Three hosted eight-day tours are open for next year – to Singapore for the Singapore Showcase tour from March 2-9, to Norfolk

Island for the A Little Bit Country tour from July 27 to August 3, and to New Zealand for the Sounds of the South Island tour from November 6-13. Early bookings are essential as Fortunato finds a lot of his fans take up the opportunity to travel in his company. “They know they are going to get a week of entertainment, music and myself singing with the guitar at every moment we have available,” he said. “We have sing-alongs and make new friends.” The Tasmania tour on this month has filled quickly with 11 of the tour members from his Norfolk Island trip last year joining in for this southern tour. During the Singapore tour, there will be a couple of shows for tour guests only. Fortunato will be joined

by other Go See Touring group hosts Rodney Vincent and Graeme Hugo. A Little Bit Country on Norfolk Island will offer the same opportunity for Go See Touring guests during the tour to attend exclusive shows where Fortunato will be on stage with Geoff Jones, Graeme Hugo, Wayne Horsburgh, Rodney Vincent, Lindsay Waddington and Lucky Starr. In New Zealand there will be pre-dinner drinks while cruising on the lake and being serenaded by Fortunato with That’s Amore. To hear Fortunato sing, go to https://youtu.be/ Wkm35ek_DmE. For full tour information and costs, go to goseetouring.com or phone (07) 3868 4760.

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Entertaining touring guide

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

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sydney mini subs

ToTal Tasmania

On the night of 31 May 1942, 3 Japanese This amazing tour takes in the complete circuit midget submarines entered Sydney harbour Including Hobart, Port Arthur, Queenstown, On this fascinating tour we cruise the Gordon River Cruise , Cradle Mtn, Dove Lake, Stanley, Devonport, Cataract Gorge, Launceston Harbour and visit the attack locations Tamar Valley, Legerwood, St Helens, Coles Bay, plus much more !!! 5 Days from $1790 including 1 way ﬂights to SYD. Freycinet NP & Richmond. 11 Days from $3490.

The Gahn experienCe

CookToWn

Cooktown is known for is its well documented history after Captain Cook ran aground. Later it became a bustling port, exporting gold and had 47 licensed pubs So, step back in time and enjoy the living history paying homage to an era of great hardship. 8 Days from $1,390* Plus Pension Rail Fare when travelling by QR Rail*

CoWboys / Caves

Join us on the Iconic Ghan Gold Class Adelaide to Darwin and experience the vast Australian Outback in Style and comfort. $3490.

uluru – Field oF liGhTs

This unique tour visits Cowboys at Texas Longhorn Ranch, Historical Charters Towers, Caves at the incredible Undara Lava Tubes and Castle Ruins of Paronella Park. 8 Days from $1,390* Plus Pension Rail Fare when travelling by QR Rail*

Welcome to our special Uluru and Alice Springs tour. The Field of Light is a global phenomenon created by internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Munro which comes to life under a sky brilliant with stars. 7 Days from $3,690.

The majesTiC river murray

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It’s by far the largest river in Australia. It begins as a small stream in the Australian Alps and 2520 river kilometres later it empties into the Southern Ocean near Goolwa in South Australia. 10 Days from $3495.

There are a few Mining towns in Australia but none of them are quite as unique as Lightning Ridge. 5 Days from $1390.

With an increasing amount of leisurely time comes the ability to truly enjoy the luxury of travel, and we’re here to make sure you receive the best experience available. Offering an extensive selection of domestic and international guided holidays to choose from, we’re dedicated to securing all the best travel deals and bookings to allow you more time to truly enjoy the views.

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TOUR HOST: Go See Touring’s Fortunato Isgro.

Photo: Contributed

Our Industry Partner

NOVEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

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The Fitzroy River is now a net-free zone and is full of big, wild barramundi.

HOOKED ON IT: Lake Monduran makes a top fishing location.

Photos: Tourism and Events Queensland

Top tips for fishing on the Bass to Barra Trail Nigel Webster

Start at Maryborough and head north towards Mackay – you’ll be glad you did

I AM fortunate to have a job that enables me to travel and fish throughout Australia and I have found the freshwater fishing options in this country are second to none. My first must-do trip is Bass to Barra Trail, which includes a series of impoundments where it is possible to catch bass and the reputed sports fish, the barramundi. The trail starts to the south at Lake Lenthalls, near Maryborough. This is a camp-only place and comes with restrictions on boat power, but it’s ideal for smaller craft and kayaks. You can camp on the foreshores and it’s full of big bass and barramundi that are pushing the 80cm plus mark. The next dams on the route include Lake Monduran and Awoonga. Monduran, near Bundaberg, is well

equipped with a caravan park or simply stay in Gin Gin. This a big dam and full of very big barramundi. Awoonga, near Gladstone, has accommodation at Gateway Lodge. The barramundi are all in the 50-90cm size and are easy to catch at present. On the way north, if you like your barra fishing, you’d be crazy to bypass Rockhampton. The Fitzroy River is now a net-free zone and is full of big, wild barramundi. There are many guides servicing the river and great places to stay, shop and dine. I stay at the Southside Village Park. Tell Neville that Nige sent you. This is one place where it is possible to catch a metre-sized barramundi in the middle of the town reaches. Heading north, you’ll find Peter Faust, Kinchant

and Teemburra Dams. My favourite is Kinchant at Mackay which is a beautiful, smaller impoundment just loaded with really big barramundi. Mackay is really catering for travellers and there are heaps of accommodation places at all levels. Type of fishing: lure, fly, and bait. Equipment: boats of any size, but four to six metres will cover more water; 4-8kg baitcast and spin outfits; 30lb braid lines and 60-80lb leaders; lures – 95mm vibes, 4-6 inch paddletail softplastics, 4-inch prawn imitation soft plastics, 90-120mm hardbody lures that dive 1-5 metres (suspending preferable). When: September to December, and then March to May. Nigel Webster works for AFN Fishing & Outdoors and presents and produces The Fishing Show on 7Mate.

Fitzroy River has plenty of barramundi in it.

Coffee at peaceful fishing location at Lake Monduran.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2018

Alternative Asia is focus of Intrepid’s Not Hot List

Be brave and and thoughtful take the road less travelled

INTREPID Travel has put together its annual ‘Not Hot List’, focusing on alternatives to Australia’s favourite Asian destinations to coincide with World Tourism Day. Intrepid Travel co-founder Darrell Wade said the second ‘Not Hot List’ was developed in response to concerns about overtourism, with a focus on less frequently visited destinations to support the adventure travel company’s ongoing commitment to responsible tourism. Last year Europe was in the spotlight and, this year, the focus has been closer to home, with beach closures igniting the debate over how tourism can be sensitive to communities and nature. “Recently we’ve seen a number of Asian countries take a proactive approach to combat overtourism,” Mr Wade said. “Australians are increasingly well-travelled and this is about encouraging them to step away from the familiar to approach our neighbours in the most intrepid way possible.” This year Maya Bay, in Thailand, the iconic spot from The Beach, closed for four months. In The Philippines, Boracay was sensationally shut down for six months due to unsustainable

BROADER TRAVEL: Sustainable tourism means trying something new like a Wae Rebo, homestay, Flores.

Photos: Contributed

tourism practises. “Tourism can be a potent force for good, and we believe the broader the travel experience, the better. There are now 3.7 million Australians travelling to Asia each year, and the more tourism dispersal, the better,” Mr Wade said. The Intrepid 2019 Not Hot Travel List: Asia Edition ■ 1. Komodo is the new Ubud Once considered the adventurous alternative to Seminyak, Ubud has flourished in popularity

Samarkand, Registan Square complex, in Uzbekistan.

thanks to its haven of health and healers. The day trip market means a lessened contribution to Ubud’s economy and puts pressure on local infrastructure. Komodo is a viable alternative for travellers who are willing to sail from Bali through the Indonesian archipelago. Komodo is a place where ancient tribes maintain their traditions in deep rainforest valleys. Travellers can snorkel coral reefs, walk across volcanic black sand beaches and watch for the

legendary and fierce Komodo dragons. ■ 2. Bukhara is the new Angkor Wat Central Asia is still as remote as you can be when it comes to Asian countries. The ‘Stans offer a Silk Road experience rich with stories of migration, religion and trade. Uzbekistan’s fifth largest city Bukhara is a UNESCO world heritage site and the entire old city centre and has more than 5000 years of human history. There are over 140 monuments and

historical buildings to explore including Po-i-Kalyan Mosque that, during its 1300 years of history, even survived assault from Genghis Khan. ■ 3. Ladakh is the new Everest While Nepal will always be a must-do for active travellers wanting to challenge themselves, Ladakh is rising in popularity for its hiking and breathtaking scenery of the Indian Himalayas. Break up the hiking with river rafting, visiting remote villages,

monasteries and religious sites. To really appreciate the quiet natural beauty of the Ladakh region, some travellers stay in bustling Delhi before and after their treks. ■ 4. Naoshima is the new Osaka Australians have long been lured to the iconic and future-focused cities of Japan, like Osaka. Intrepid advocates travellers discover the southern islands or ‘lost Japan’. Naoshima Island has been transformed from a sleepy fishing community to a world class art destination with a variety of sleek and stylish museums. Travellers can cycle between galleries, outdoor sculptures and modern architecture. The Southern Islands also house impressive castles and Japan’s oldest hot spring baths – Dogo Onsen. ■ 5. Sumatra is the new Borneo Sumatra is as exotic a destination as Borneo, offering national parks and endemic species. As the world’s sixth largest island, Sumatra made headlines earlier this year with the Mount Sinabung volcano eruption. Despite possible danger, these geothermal activities have created surreal landscapes such as Gunung Leuser National Park, home to one of the richest ecosystems in the world. Sumatra is where travellers have the best chance of spotting wild orangutans in Indonesia.

A baby orangutan in Gunung Leuser National Park, in Sumatra.

NOVEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

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Hosted, guided and escorted holidays are also a safe way to plan a trip.

UNIQUE ITINERARIES: My Hosted Holiday plan unique holidays, especially for Solo Travellers over 50 years. Experience some amazing locations like Norfolk Island.

Taking the stress out of your next dream getaway HOSTED, guided and escorted holidays are quickly becoming the “next big thing” for planning easy, relaxing holidays among people of all ages, and there are so many reasons why touring this way could be just right for you. Planning a large trip with many stops, attractions and activities

can be stressful, frustrating and exhausting. Hosted, guided and escorted holidays take all that stress out of the equation. Through websites like MyHostedHolidays.com, holidays are now easier to book than ever before. You can search, compare and book a range of holidays to cater to any special interest, location or form of

transport. All you need to do when you find a holiday that seems right for you is book! Then you can sit back, relax and have your trip planned for you. Hosted, guided and escorted holidays are also a safe way to plan a trip. By getting in touch with tour operators that you can trust, you know that your trip will be secure. “Something about the

benefits of directly getting in touch with tour operators,” Ash Hayden from MyHostedHolidays. com said. Hosted holidays are also a great way of seeing things from a new perspective. Together with the local knowledge of the tour operators and some flexibility to explore within the trips, you may get to see exciting, unexpected new places you would

have never found otherwise. Meeting new, like-minded, fun-loving people just like yourself is part and parcel with hosted holidays. Not only could you meet life-long friends on your next guided trip, but they also give you the opportunity to meet to meet different and unique people from all over the globe in their home cities, towns and villages.

Finally, escorted, guided and hosted trips are gateways to fun and adventure. Why not take the stress out of your next trip and go on a hosted, escorted or guided holiday? You’ll be glad you did. For more information, go to MyHostedHolidays.com to find out just how easy it is to go on the trip of a lifetime.

Win a Pocket Square from A Pocket Affair To celebrate our interview with Brendan Harris, the creator of "A Pocket Affair" we are giving away 4 beautiful, unique and easy to wear pocket handkerchiefs - what a wonderful Christmas Gift! To Enter - All you have to do is fill in the entry form on our website!

Enter online at seniorsnews.com.au/competitions ^Visit seniorsnews.com.au/competitionterms for full competition terms and conditions. Promoter is ARM Specialist Media Pty Ltd of 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore Qld 4558. Promotional period 5/11/18-7/12/18 Competition drawn 10am 10/12/18 at Cnr Mayne Rd and Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006. Winners announced in Seniors February Editions 2019. Total prize value $280 (including GST). Entry is open to all permanent residents of Queensland, residing in the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Wide Bay and Toowoomba Seniors distribution areas and NSW in the Northern NSW, Central Coast and Coffs & Clarence Seniors distribution areas. NSW Permit Number LTPM/18/03133

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NOVEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Ann revs up to see Vietnam Ann Rickard EVERY visitor to Vietnam has quaked at the tsunami of motor scooters on the roads – and it’s not just seniors who are frightened. Crossing the roads is a walk towards possible death. You must step into the tsunami of scooters, focus on the footpath across the road and pray. Fortunately, every scooter driver in Vietnam (apart from foreigners) has built-in scooter DNA. They can weave and duck and manoeuvre and merge and zigzag, so you, crossing the road deep in silent prayer, become a boulder in the middle of a fast-flowing river. You must let the rushing current of scooters flow, gush and surge around you. It sounds impossible. But the good news? It works. In Ho Chi Minh City there are 13 million people and 10 million scooters. That’s some hefty ratio. Relaxing on the 38th floor in the Club Lounge of The Reverie Hotel in Ho Chi Minh, watching

thousands of scooters from the luxurious safety of high above is one thing. But being down on the frenetic streets on the back of one of them is quite another. So it was that I found myself in the bustling city of Nha Trang the next day during a stay at The Anam, the luxurious beachfront resort in the southeastern coast of Vietnam. While The Anam is all about swaying palm trees, sandy beaches, luxury villas and indulgent spa treatments, a motor scooter tour in nearby Nha Trang will fulfil all your adventure fantasies, especially The Nha Trang By Night tour which will have you on the back of a motor scooter immersed in the tidal wave of bikes. It’s no good being a sissy, you must put your faith in the driver. You have no control as you approach a frantic roundabout where giving way to your right or left is not a consideration. You just merge with the thousands of other bikes and make it through the roundabout to your exit. There you will be met

with several thousand more bikes weaving perilously around you. How anyone does not receive an unasked-for foot amputation or an unrequested limb removal is nothing short of a miracle. But there is a gentle and unspoken etiquette among the chaos. That locals’ DNA at work. Oh, but the thrill of being among it all, the adrenaline rush, the uninhibited freedom as you let the frenzied traffic have its way with you. Our scooter tour took us first to a bread house – a wall-opening in a large rock on the side of a dusty road – where family members baked baguettes (banh mi) in a pizza-like oven before handing them over to mama squatting on the road who cooled them, put them in a giant bag on the back of her son’s scooter and sent them off to be sold to restaurants and cafes within minutes. Next to the bread house, a locals’ market where tourists rarely venture, the freshest vegetables, fish, noodles,

and live frogs were sold on the road, their vendors squatting comfortably on rocks or tiny plastic chairs while they weighed and sold and laughed and chatted. Shoppers pick up fish, noodles and tofu most nights after work to load on the scooter and take home for dinner. All ready in 10 minutes. Then back on our bikes to a pancake parlour – another opening on the side of another dusty road. Tear off a bit of pancake, wrap it in the delicious greens and herbs, dip it into a chilli sauce – a visit to street-food heaven for a couple of dollars. The ebullient general manager at The Anam resort, Herbert Laubichler-Pichler, will have his team organise a scooter tour for you. We reckon the food and market tours are best, but there are cultural tours if you want to meet local artists and learn religious traditions. Adventurers will love the forest tour, a trek to waterfalls and swimming creeks, and for the

FEEL OF FREEDOM: Ann Rickard on the back of a bike. curious, The Feel and Live Nha Trang tour will introduce you to the countryside to see rural life in Vietnam. After a tour on a scooter among the mayhem, followed by a restorative spa visit back at The Anam, we guarantee you will feel more alive than you ever have before. It beats jumping out of

a plane or climbing a mountain as many seniors seem to think they are obliged to do just because they are seniors. And nothing will make you feel more like a local than being on a motor scooter in Vietnam. For more information on scooter tours and The Anam resort, go to theanam.com.

Raw and remarkable: Crooked Compass delves into Africa COOKING with Rwandan villagers, searching for berries and honey with the Ju’hoan tribe, bonding with baby baboons, and wildlife telemetry tracking are some of the experiences featured next year in Crooked Compass’ signature African tours. The boutique tour operator specialises in authentic cultural travel with conservation and sustainability at its core, while keeping comfort in mind with predominately ‘luxury lodge’ accommodation. The 10-night ‘Remarkable Rwanda’ (female-only) and 11-night ‘Raw Namibia’ journeys have proven to be life-altering experiences for Crooked Compass travellers according to company founder Lisa Pagotto. “Our travellers have the opportunity to travel deeper and uncover the side of a destination they didn’t know existed, while supporting communities and projects they visit. They naturally become our ambassadors as their experiences are all they can talk about once they return to ‘normal’ life.” Leading entrepreneur and Red Balloon Founder Naomi Simson is an advocate for Crooked

GO THERE: Spend time with the Ju'hoan tribe and learn about traditional bush medicines, rope making, and survival techniques handed down through generations. Compass’ products and ethos. She journeyed with Crooked Compass in 2018 on the Reindeer Tribes of Mongolia tour. “It’s now a few months since I returned from my trip and on so many levels this was a trip of a lifetime,” Ms Simson said. “I’m not sure if it was just the trip or the special friendship of discovery with my other eight fellow travellers. For all of us it was the first time we had selected an ‘organised’ expedition. “I’ve never travelled to Africa so I’m excited to see the new Rwanda and

Namibia programs from Crooked Compass – now I just need to plan my calendar!” Raw Namibia Ideal for: Anyone with a sense of adventure and a moderate level of fitness; nature lovers; conservationists; animal lovers; aspiring and professional photographers. Accommodation: May include Cheetah Conservation Fund, Nhoma Safari Camp (includes ensuite bathroom with hot water), Old Traders Lodge, N/a’an ku sê (community lodge).

The ultimate conservation experience for those captivated by Africa’s most majestic creatures and who are fascinated by Namibia’s nomadic cultures. This journey will leave an indelible impression on all travellers. Cat lovers will rejoice on this tour as they contribute to the preservation efforts for cheetahs and leopards, while being educated and enlightened on their place in the ecosystem. At the Global Leopard Project, you’ll have the opportunity to head out to try to locate

one of these magnificent creatures; you may even find yourself downloading data from their GPS collars. Visit the vast, remote Khaudom National Park and witness elephants, giraffes, antelopes, lions and spotted hyenas. In the Erindi Private Game Reserve, travellers can add rhinos and wild dogs to the list – the latter being one of the most endangered species in the world – then spend the afternoon relaxing by a busy waterhole. Participants will have the option of ‘telemetry tracking’ with a qualified guide, where they’ll observe tagged animals on the ultimate game drive. Walk with tamed caracal cats and be captivated when you get up close and personal with beautiful baby baboons. This is an avid photographer’s dream. Visit Nhoma Safari Camp and participate in captivating daily activities such as traditional games while enjoying the raw landscape and connecting with nature. Your stay in the Camp allows the community to generate income, which in turn buys food and supplies not provided by the surrounding environment.

Spend time with the Ju’hoan tribe and learn about traditional bush medicines, rope making, and survival techniques that have been handed down through generations. You will also explore the land in search of berries, tubers and honey. Join the San Bushmen to make a fire and listen to their stories about the stars, animals and the universe. Discover plants used for medicinal purposes. Dates: April 1 - 12, 2019 and September 8 19, 2019. Cost: $7877 AUD per person twin-share. Go to crooked-compass.com/t our/raw-namibia. Remarkable Rwanda Ideal for: Women-only with a moderate level of fitness; animal lovers; those with an interest in other cultures, conservation and women’s rights. Accommodation: May include Hotel Muhabura, WOC Tents (3-Star rural community ensuited tents), Heaven Boutique Hotel, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Gisovu Tea Estate, Emeraude Lake Kivu Resort, The Retreat, local homestay. crooked-compass.com.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2018

National Archives adds new sounds

Wellbeing

FROM one of the first women to have a hit song in the Australian charts, Pilita Corrales, to the highest selling Aboriginal album by Gurrumul, ten essential sounds that helped define Australian history and culture have been added to the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA) Sounds of Australia. Other inductees include Goanna’s track about Aboriginal land rights, Solid Rock; Margret RoadKnight’s empowering Girls In Our Town; the popular tongue-twisting song I’ve Been Everywhere by Lucky Starr; and Binny Lum’s extensive collection of celebrity interviews. 2018 Sounds of Australia includes: ■ 1905 recording of Caro Mio Ben by Ada Crossley, a prominent turn-of-the century opera singer ■ 1926 recording of Freshie/After the Dawn by Sydney Simpson and his Wentworth Café Orchestra ■ 1962 recording of I’ve Been Everywhere by Lucky Starr. (More than 131 versions of this tongue twister exist, confirming its universal appeal and ongoing popularity.) ■ From 1976, Girls in Our Town – Margret RoadKnight: An empowering song about the trials and tribulations of teenage girls during the 1970s era of women’s liberation. ■ From 1982, Solid Rock – Goanna: A protest message that resonated with the Australian public.

MKING A POINT: EveryAGE Counts advocates Professor Bill Metcalf and Christine Logan with Benevolent Society CEO Jo Toohey (centre) at the launch of the EveryAGE Counts anti-ageism campaign. Photo: Benevolent Society

Anti-ageism attitude

Tracey Johnstone CHANGING attitudes to ageing has to happen – that’s a given. But how it happens and when is the challenge being taken up by the social campaign EveryAGE Counts. The anti-ageism campaign, which is the brainchild of the Benevolent Society, but driven by a powerful and diverse coalition of organisations and individuals. A new website, video messaging for social media and a pledge document are the start. “I stand for a world without ageism where all people of all ages are valued and respected and their contributions are acknowledged. I commit to speak out and take

action to ensure older people can participate on equal terms with others in all aspects of life.” EveryAGE Counts will be a long-term campaign. Ten or 15 more years from now its supporters hope its real value is seen and felt. In the short-term though there is a lot of work to be done to change the entrenched overt and covert attitudes of all ages to ageing Australians. “We know that unless we can get to the heart of these attitudes and beliefs to expose and redress them for their unfair and outdated assumptions, we will have little success in dismantling the barriers and assuring that all Australians, right across life from birth right through to very old age, can have the opportunity

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to live their very best of life,” Benevolent Society CEO Jo Toohey said. “Ageism is stereotyping, discrimination and mistreatment based solely on age.” Adapting to the changing world is part of the challenge. More of us are not only living longer lives, we are also living healthier ones. ]We want to stay engaged with and involved in the world around us. Also, the younger generations now are expected to be living just as longer lives. So, what EveryAGE Counts achieves in its battle against ageism now will benefit both the current older Australians and the ageing generations that follow them. Author and social

commentator Jane Caro is on the steering committee of the Every Age Counts campaign. Caro says she has a “sharp eye” for inequality, thanks to her decades of active feminism. “I see it very clearly and I draw a lot of parallels between what has worked for feminism and what we should probably be thinking about doing with ageism,” she says. Losing the stereotypes of yesteryear is part of the change process. “New generations of older people, including me, are refusing to accept the attitudes and stereotypes about our own experience of growing older; we want to age differently from the previous generations, and we are,” Ms Toohey said. The co-chairman of the EveryAGE Counts coalition

steering group Robert Tickner said the coalition has set itself five key areas. ■ Advocacy, whole of government political engagement and public campaigning. ■ Addressing structural barriers particularly where ageist policies or entrenched practices prevent access to participation. ■ Increasing the diversity and accuracy of representations, including language, of older people in the media, advertising, the arts and public discussion. ■ Build around Australia the grassroots social movement. ■ More research and policy development. For more information, go to www.everyagecounts. org.au.

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Tips to prevent hayfever A few simple measures can make your life much easier Seniors News THIS is the time of year when hayfever strikes and sufferers often become isolated as they seek shelter from the onslaught, but it can be stopped with some easy actions. Close to three million Australians will try to deal with prolific sneezing, a runny nose and itchy eyes. Amcal research has found that these symptoms lead to people choosing to put themselves in social isolation to avoid the indignity of the dreaded hayfever ‘shame’. Amcal senior pharmacist James Nevile has six simple tips to help hayfever sufferers find some peace this season. ■ Scrub up: On days with high amounts of pollen in the air, wash your hands more often and clean your

HAYFEVER SHAME: Find some peace this season with these tips. hair each night. This helps to ensure any pollen residue from the air is off

your body and away from your nose. ■ Pollen out: Ensure your

house is free from dust and all the windows and doors are closed to keep

Photo: dragana991

pollen out. Try drying your clothes inside to stop pollen

attaching to them. ■ Stop your symptoms in their tracks: Use antihistamines, nasal spray and eye drops to minimise your symptoms. Your pharmacy is a great place to start. And, remember to take your tablets at the start of each day – this makes sure they reach their peak when you do. ■ Chill out: Stress has been linked with increasing hayfever symptoms. Take a chill pill in the form of herbal tea with ginger and honey. This can relieve symptoms such as congestion and itchiness. ■ Sweet dreams: Stock up on allergy-friendly bedding and ensure it is dust free. This will help to ensure the sniffles are kept at bay as you sleep. ■ Add to your sunglasses: Protect your eyes from pollen through the season to lessen irritation and itchiness. Sunglasses are a great way to do this. Opt for lenses that cover as much of your eye area as possible. Use a small eye bath for high pollen days.

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EVEN though there are various factors that affect whether a person can get skin cancer, the old adage of slip, slop, slap never goes out fashion; it applies to everyone, every day. Two in three Australians develop skin cancer by age 70. It starts with the sun damaging the DNA in the skin cells and that damage accumulating over time, even if we don’t get sunburnt. We only need between 10-15 minutes of early morning sunshine on our skin each day to produce our daily vitamin D needs. “The rest of your day you should be focusing on your sun protection,” a dermatologist at the University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Associate Professor Kiarash Khosrotehrani, said. Cover up The recent Australian Sunscreen Summit reconfirmed to practitioners that the daily application of sunscreen, whether it’s 30 or 50 plus, is the most effective protection. “Really, the best sunscreen is the one you put on,” Prof Khosrotehrani said. He suggests if you

SKIN CARE: Ahead of summer, review your skin and get ready to take care of it. Photo: roboriginal aren’t sure what type to use, try the samples at your pharmacy. But he recommends avoiding spray-on sunscreen as you really don’t know how much of it actually gets on your skin. Anyone who has fair skin, sun spots or has already had skin cancer should make it their daily routine to apply sunscreen on the two places most likely to be exposed to significant UV index – their face including forehead and ears, and the back of their hands. Of course, any other skin surfaces exposed while you are out in the sun should also have sunscreen applied to it, but the face and hands are the two skin areas that are most likely to always be in the sun. Covering up by wearing UV-resistant clothing is another way to protect your skin.

You can also wear darker coloured clothes which let in lesser light, or wear light coloured clothes with sunscreen applied underneath. Monitor your skin health Monitoring the condition of your skin is important. What you need to look out for and get checked out is – ■ An inflamed pimple or a wounded area that hasn’t healed for a couple of weeks. “A lot skin cancers manifest like that,” Prof Khosrotehrani said. ■ With moles and brown lesions, if you have a new lesion or one that is changing rapidly. Everyone should have a full skin check at least once. The GP can then advise how often you should get rechecked after that. You can also use the online tool qskin.qimrberghofer. edu.au to predict the risk of you developing non-melanoma skin cancers within three years. If you have had skin cancer, Prof Khosrotehrani recommends you should get a full skin check every six to 12 months.

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2018

WELLBEING

STAY AT HOME

Helping seniors stay at home

MOST people want to live in their own homes for as long as they can. Often seniors worry that, if they start planning or talking about aged care, others will think they can no longer cope or won’t be able to live at home any more. Queensland provider Ozcare helps seniors stay at home longer by providing individualised support. It can be anything from a small amount of assistance around the house to more complex nursing care or home modifications. Joy had just moved from New South Wales to Queensland’s sunny Gold Coast when she first learnt about Ozcare. “I heard how good Ozcare was at looking after the elderly,” Joy said. “I was only in my 80s at the time but I thought ‘I’ll give it a try’. “They are absolutely fantastic, I wouldn’t be without them.” Joy, now 90, is fiercely independent, a lover of

IN SAFE HANDS: Ozcare helps seniors stay at home longer by providing individualised support. her own company and most happy living on her own. “I couldn’t imagine myself in a nursing home,

I’m not old enough yet. I hope I stay at home for a long, long time,” Joy said. Joy’s case manager Christine knows first-hand

how much it means to Joy to remain living in her own home. She used to clean for Joy when she first started

Photo: kzenon

with Ozcare. “Joy was one of my first clients when I started as a support worker,” Christine said. “I used to come to Joy

every fortnight. “Now I’m Joy’s case manager so I still have contact with her, which is lovely. “I know Joy doesn’t want to leave her home. “She’s quite happy here, and it’s safe, so if we can help her stay here, that’s what we’ll do.” Joy receives domestic assistance from Ozcare to help her manage at home. “Because I’m getting on in years, I find it hard to do a lot of things now, like bending over, doing the washing, carrying buckets, vacuum cleaners and things like that,” Joy said. “It’s the security, knowing someone’s looking after me. “If I want any extra help, it is always there. If I want to go to the hospital, they’ll come and pick me up. “There is nothing they don’t do for me.”

For more information on Ozcare, phone 1800 692 273 or go to ozcare.org.au.

WELLBEING

NOVEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Alarm bells are ringing Make time to save your life

BRAND INSIGHTS IT’S time to upgrade your unmonitored medical alarm device to ensure it works seamlessly with the NBN network. NBN has put out a call for anyone with medical alarms who currently relies on an emergency landline call, when activated, to a designated person whether it’s a family member, friend, neighbour or to 000. With the new phone and internet technology being rolled out across Australia, some medical alarm devices, auto diallers and emergency call buttons may not be compatible with the new system. NBN’s chief customer officer residential Brad Whitcomb said moving to the new network isn’t automatic – everyone needs to request for migration of their services, including medical alarms. “Even if you are unsure, you should submit your details to our register and we will advise you on what support is available,” Mr Whitcomb said. It’s critical to remember that the NBN network needs power to work. If there is a power outage, alarms that rely on a landline may not work.In that instance the only alternative is using a mobile network, so check whether your device is capable of dialling through a mobile network. Where to start Before contacting NBN you need to check whether you and your device are eligible for the upgrade offer. You must: ■ Own an unmonitored

UPDATED TIME: Some medical alarm devices may be incompatible with the new system. medical alarm or be authorised by its owner to upgrade it to an eligible one. ■ Use an alarm that relies solely on the home phoneline. Alarms that can connect to a mobile network are not eligible. ■ Live where you can get a new fixed line connection over the NBN network. People who live in an NBN fixed wireless or sky muster area aren’t eligible.

■ Register your alarm on NBN’s Medical Alarm Register at the website www.nbnco.com.au or by phoning 1800 227 300. ■ Have purchased your existing alarm on or before August 31, 2018. ■ Not previously received a medical alarm upgrade rebate or subsidy through any other similar NBN-supported program or offer. You will be requested to return your old alarm to

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Christmas comes Earley with unique ‘family’ choir Alison Houston THERE are many hours of dedication involved in what she does, but Toowoomba’s Helen Earley has never considered it to be work. Having started piano lessons at just 7, Helen said music is and always has been her life, whether performing or creating music and musicals, singing, training or conducting, from classical to contemporary pieces. At “70 going on 50”, the director of the Helen Earley Ensemble is delighted that, while the roles may change, there’s no “use by” date on singers or choral conductors. “I love it; it’s been very rewarding and I just enjoy every day,” Helen said. “I go to bed with a smile on my face and wake up with a smile.” She and her choirs – the Helen Earley Ensemble (ages 13-75) and the Exultate Choir (formed in 2014 for children 6-12) are putting the final touches on their annual Christmas musical to be performed at St Paul’s Hall on Saturday, November 24.

It’s a two-piece program, with the children performing The Christmas Motel, in which the motel manager retells the story of a “special night long ago”, followed by high tea and The Christmas Miracle, performed by the all-ages choir. While proud of the ensemble’s professional quality sound, Helen said neither choir is auditioned, and you don’t have to read music to take part, just love singing, be able to hold a tune and happy to learn. Known affectionately as “Toowoomba’s Family Choir”, the ensemble comprises people from all walks of life, from musicians to teachers, engineers, tradespeople, IT and other professionals to students and retirees, all united in their love of music. “We’re a very unique choir,” Helen said. “Sometimes when we have our halftime break, I see people in their 60s sitting with a couple of teens, having a chat – sometimes there’s one or two generations difference – but we are just like a big family, supporting and encouraging each other.”

Living

JOY OF SONG: Members of Toowoomba's Helen Earley Ensemble prepare, with Helen on piano, for this year's Christmas musical. Photo: Contributed Born and bred in Toowoomba, and having “happily chosen not to go anywhere else”, Helen completed her A Mus A in 1986, later gaining her nursing diploma, but kept on singing. She has performed in 10 musicals, is heavily involved in both the Toowoomba and Queensland eisteddfods, adjudicates and has now been a singing teacher for

31 years, helping many students on to tertiary studies and the stage. She formed her first choir, The Earleybirds, in 1988, and another two choirs in 1992 which amalgamated into the ensemble in 2004, with some of the original choristers singing to this day. And, Helen said, while the choir has many supporters who go along

to every production they put on, Christmas remains a special time. “It’s a lovely time for people of all ages to come and celebrate the season, because it’s important to keep the meaning of Christmas – we don’t want to lose that,” Helen said. She also urged anyone interested in becoming a choir member to go along to the concert and “see what’s possible” and think

about joining next year. Practices for the main choir, which currently numbers about 50, are from 7pm Thursdays. The Helen Earley Christmas Musical is at 6pm on November 24 at St Paul’s Hall, Phillip St, Toowoomba. Adult entry is $30 and pensioners and students (over 13) $20, children $10. Phone (07 4632 4204 or 0418 159 857.

Dr Bob claims a world first for Aussies

LONGTIME Toowoomba veterinarian and avian specialist Dr Bob Doneley is the first Australian to win the prestigious TJ Lafeber Avian Practitioner of the Year Award. Dr Doneley said he was proud to have been announced the winner of the world-recognised award at ExoticsCon in Atlanta, USA. In clinical practice for 36 years, Dr Doneley owned the West Toowoomba Veterinary Surgery for 22 years from 1988-2010. During that time, he was the first vet in Queensland and only the third in Australia to be certified as a specialist in avian medicine in 2003. He is now an associate professor and, since 2010, the head of the

Avian and Exotic Pet Service at The University of Queensland School of Veterinary Science at Gatton. Dr TJ Lafeber was recognised as a pioneer in companion bird medicine and the award in his name is presented to “an outstanding practitioner who is advancing the quality of health care for companion birds”. It is based on criteria including clinical excellence, innovation, contributions to the knowledge base, and caring and compassion to avian patients and clients. In its tribute to Dr Doneley, the Lafeber Award stated, “as an educator, Dr Doneley has had an impact on countless students” across all five years of the

BIRD MAN: Dr Bob Doneley has been honoured as the world's top bird practitioner for 2018, and no doubt these macaws would agree. Photo: UNIVERSITY OF QUEENSLAND veterinary course. “The Avian and Exotic Pet Service sees approximately 1200 patients annually, of which 70 per cent are birds (both free-ranging and aviary or companion birds).” Dr Doneley said that over the decades he had treated everything from finches to wedge-tailed eagles, geckos to pythons, and possums to kangaroos, including 2-3

native animals a day in his present job. His interest in bird medicine developed shortly after he graduated in 1982, when he was asked to give a talk to a budgerigar association and, realising he had been taught virtually nothing on the subject as a student, set about remedying that. He learned from the pioneers of bird medicine in Australia and overseas,

and said he was pleased to be passing on that legacy. Today birds are among the most popular pets in Australia, numbering over four million. As well as a regular column in the respected Australian BirdKeeper magazine, Dr Doneley has written two books, has chapters in another 10, and contributed to chapters on health and disease in six ABK

Publications on parrot species. He is vice-president of the Australian Veterinary Association and president of the Avian Health Chapter of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists. Dr Doneley also presents at veterinary conferences around Australia and the world, at the Aves Convention, the Parrot Society and other bird clubs.

NOVEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Money

Tony Kaye ON AVERAGE, taken across our total population base, Australians are generally living longer. Which brings its own challenges in terms of financial security, particularly for those not wanting to rely solely on the government age pension. Our superannuation system gives most Australians the opportunity to build a sizeable retirement nest egg, and couples are obviously able to pool their financial resources over time to reduce longevity risk – the financial term for running out of your own money before death. Fortunately, the age pension is in place as a safety net for those who do run out of money, and as a financial supplement to superannuation savings as one’s money does begin to decline over time. Lots of research has been done in Australia on the fact that, for various reasons, women often retire with much lower superannuation balances than men. Substantial measures are being taken at a government level to address this issue, but there’s another aspect to financial security that generally receives little airplay. It’s the issue of financial instability and insecurity as a result of the loss of a spouse. It’s already a well-known fact that women generally live longer than men.

Widowhood forces sole decision-making

The World Health Organisation, in its 2018 World Life Expectancy report, calculates that Australian men on average now live to the age of 81, and women to nearly 85. That’s an average four-year life gap in the later stages of life, but the reality is that widowhood – a life stage defined by the loss of a spouse– can occur at any time. A new US study by Bank of America Merrill Lynch and US-based ageing population research group Age Wave looks into the impacts of widowhood in detail as women and men, after having to deal with the emotional stress of losing partner, have to come to terms with the situation on a financial level. The Widowhood and Money: Resiliency, Responsibility and Empowerment study found that widows in particular are often thrust into taking over the financial reins with limited previous experience. ■ Sixty-nine per cent of widows said that the hardest financial challenge in widowhood is becoming the sole decision maker, followed by adjusting to a loss in income (67 per cent) and navigating financial and legal paperwork (66 per cent). ■ Only 14 per cent of widows said that they were making financial decisions by themselves before their spouse died. Now, 86 per cent reported having to do so alone. ■ At the same time that widows are having to make financial and legal decisions and pay for expenses such as funeral or end of life costs,

SOLO: Time to be financially prepared. widows are also receiving assets. ■ Eighty-two per cent of widows reported that they have received some sort of inflow of assets, most commonly Survivor’s Social Security (69 per cent) and life insurance (63 per cent). The median amount that widows received from their spouse’s accounts was US$28,000. According to the study, 60 per cent of men and

Photo: AmmentorpDK

women who lose their spouses are immediately burdened by financial expenses, including housing costs such as mortgages or rent. The fact that half of those who lose a spouse also face a 50 per cent reduction in income compounds the problem. But there was a positive aspect from the study, with more than two-thirds of widows and widowers disclosing that

the loss of their spouse had forced them to find courage and financial confidence. “They’re forced to jump into complex financial matters from the start of their journey and adjust to making financial decisions alone,” said Lisa Margeson, head of retirement client experience and communications at Bank of America Merrill Lynch. “In fact, 72 per cent say

they now consider themselves more financially savvy than other people their age. “If anything, the study is a timely reminder for couples to be actively involved in financial decision making together throughout life.” Tony Kaye is the editor of listed financial services company InvestSMART Group. www.investsmart. com.au.

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SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2018

MONEY

Ensure you have final say Alison Houston TOO many seniors don’t have a will, have an outdated, incomplete or ambiguous will, or aren’t too sure any more where to find the will they made. For lawyers at last month’s Salvation Army Community Wills Day in Southport, that’s a real concern. Attwood Marshall Lawyers wills and estates/family law lawyer Emily Edmunds was one of four representatives from the firm to take part in the day, at which 59 people sought legal help. Wills, usually from $220, cost just $75 on the day, with funds going to the Salvation Army. “Most of the people I saw had very outdated wills that were 10 years or older, and many people made provision in their wills for former spouses, or beneficiaries they no longer wanted to provide for,” Emily said. “Without an updated will, an estate can be left to an unwanted beneficiary, which could then force a current partner or your children to

WILLING AND ABLE: Salvation Army representative Ron Southall, bequests manager Tony Welsh, Attwood Marshall lawyers Larisa Kapur, Emily Edmonds and Amanda Smith, with Salvos officers Petra and Steven Dorman at the Gold Coast Salvation Army Temple, Southport for Community Wills Day. Photo: Contributed contest the will in order to receive provision from your estate.” She said the stress and costs of estate litigation were burdens family members already grieving should not have to cope with, and could be easily avoided with the help of a lawyer-prepared will.

“Other issues among seniors included poorly written home-kit wills, which are usually ambiguous or overlook the entire financial situation of a party,” Emily said. “Some people advised they had wills that were done many years ago but

they couldn’t remember where the wills were stored.” She warned that if you did pass away and an old will was located and determined to be your last, it could be upheld regardless of how outdated it was. Attwood Marshall

Lawyers has supported Salvation Army Wills Days since 2005 as part of its backing for community causes and their belief in making quality legal services accessible. For the Salvos, Wills Days are also an important awareness message, with as many

as one in two Australians “never get around” to making a will, potentially leaving their families in distress. Without a will, surviving family members will not be able to access your bank accounts, deal with council and service providers, Centrelink, Medicare and medical providers and, if you don’t have immediate next of kin, your estate could pass to the government. Of course, the Salvos also hope some people may leave them a bequest, and have joined 100 other charities in the “live on” message, encouraging people to consider including a charity in our wills – something 29 per cent of people consider, but only 7.5 per cent actually do. Seniors can book a free estate planning review at Attwood Marshall Lawyers by contacting Donna Tolley on 5506 8241 or emailing dtolley@attwoodmarshall. com.au. To find out about future Wills Days, contact the Salvos on 1800 337 082.

Share the Good News If you’ve got big news, a heart-warming story or community event coming up, spread the word and share it online with Seniors!

Opening Doors to the Seniors Lifestyle

Visit seniorsnews.com.au today!

NEWS

NOVEMBER, 2018// SENIORS

Enjoy listening to TV together once again BRAND INSIGHTS A NEW headset released earlier this year is assisting thousands of Australians having difficulty hearing the TV. The wireless headset was designed by two hearing specialists from Australia and focuses on amplifying speech frequencies, to assist with clarity of TV audio and dialogue. Hearing specialist Don Hudson said the headset was developed using extensive hearing assessment data from over 1000 audiograms, otherwise known as hearing test results. “We needed to address several factors in order to deliver a product which helps Australians experiencing difficulty when it comes to hearing the TV,” Mr Hudson said. “Number one was to address the issue of poor TV audio resulting in poor television audio clarity. “This is especially true for hearing dialogue. Difficulty hearing the TV dialogue is often not due to the television or

CHRISTMAS CHEER: TV Voice Pro is currently offering free express courier delivery for all pre-Christmas orders. surround sound speakers themselves, it’s in fact caused by the original audio mixing for the television show or program.” The wireless TV Voice Pro headset weighs just 70 grams, and allows wearers to listen to TV at their own preferred

volume, without affecting the audio volume for others in the room. It uses RF transmission to allow wireless use from anywhere in the house, up to 20 metres. The audio design and frequency spectrum was developed to assist those with hearing loss.

“It’s an all in one solution to assist those with any level of hearing loss, from mild to severe,” Don said. “The user can select from three unique speech clarity settings, allowing them to adjust the clarity to their preferred setting. “A simple volume dial

on the headset allows the wearer to listen at their own volume level.” The TV Voice Pro system is guaranteed to connect in under two minutes to any TV in Australia. It is a rechargeable device and no batteries are required. The purchase price is

$349. TV Voice Pro comes with a 30-day money back guarantee. TV Voice Pro is currently offering free express courier delivery for all pre-Christmas orders. To order phone 1300 300 446 or go to TvVoicePro.com.au.

Helping older Australians retain their independence

HEALTH data shows that falls are now one of the leading causes of hospital admissions for Australians aged 65 and older and, with more Aussies living in their own homes longer, 60 per cent of all falls occur at home. AbiBird has been developed in Australia to support people who want to retain their independence as they age. An AbiBird sensor is placed in the home of your older loved one and tracks daily activity in their home. The sensor then shares this information on the smartphone of a carer or family member. If activity stops, or is unusual, AbiBird sends an alert to the AbiBird app on your smartphone. A quick glance at your smartphone can let you know whether your loved one is OK, or if they may need attention.

A key difference between AbiBird and other products is that AbiBird is not a wearable device and it does not need an internet or telephone connection. AbiBird has also been designed to maintain privacy, there is no camera or audio recording. One or two AbiBird sensors is enough for a typical home and AbiBird can be installed in less than a few minutes. You simply turn it on, download the free AbiBird app and confirm or change the settings. Replacing the batteries once a year when alerted is the only maintenance required.

The AbiBird solution is available for a free one month trial and thereafter it is only $20 a month. There are no installation fee or lock-in-contracts. Go to abibird.com.au, or phone 1300 132 121.

HELPING HAND: The AbiBird sensor is placed in the home of your older loved one and tracks daily activity in their home. Photo: Christian Quinlan

SENIORS \\NOVEMBER, 2018

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Be wary if the number in the ad is disconnected. If the buyer/seller says the number is disconnected because they are overseas, ask for a landline phone number at their current location as well as a mobile phone number. All contact details of the person buying or selling the car should be verified to ensure they are genuine.

Glaucoma – Stealing Sight 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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