Toowoomba & Darling Downs, May 2017

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Seniors

May, 2017

Toowoomba & Darling Downs

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PAGES 23 -26

PAGE 30

PAGES 4 & 5

PAGES 13 - 22

2 Seniors Toowoomba & Darling Downs

Feature: Christine Danton.............................Pages 4 & 5 Grey Nomads feature...............................Pages 13-22 Travel ...............................................................Pages 23-26 Wellbeing .......................................................Pages 27-29 Puzzles.........................................................Page 35

Contact us Editor Gail Forrer gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Manager Kristie Waite kristie.waite@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Now online Get your news online at www.seniorsnews.com.au Advertising, editorial and distribution enquiries Phone: 1300 880 265 or (07) 5435 3200 Email: advertising@seniorsnewspaper.com.au or editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Location: 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore 4558 Website: www.seniorsnews.com.au Subscriptions Only $39.90 for one year (12 editions) including GST and postage anywhere in Australia. Please call our circulations services on 1300 361 604 and quote “Toowoomba Seniors Newspaper”.

The Seniors Newspaper is published monthly and distributed free in south-east 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.

Disrupt the rules and do it your way Disruptors welcome!

This month our theme focuses on “Age Disruptors” – people who have, in one way or another challenged traditional perceptions of ageing.

I use the word “Disruptor” in the modern sense, as a noun with positive connotations.

Wizard entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson loves nothing more than a “disruptor” that is, a person who (often) through inventive means, challenges conventions.

Indeed his Virgin website virgin.com.au has a dedicated page to Virgin Disruptors and explains it as: “Virgin Disruptors – People Creating Change.

Virgin is all about inspiration, innovation and creating tangible change across business and the world.”

In this edition of Seniors, a Disruptor, is personified by our cover personality, Christine Danton. This 72-year-old is all about “disrupting”

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK GAIL FORRER

Group editor Seniors Newspapers network

tbeliefs associated with ther older body.

She presents onstage performances, when there are questions over any performance by a woman of a certain age, let alone one with body exposure.

But there you go, and rather than keeping quiet about it, Christine has taken up motivational speaking to spread the word about what is and what isn’t inappropriate ageing.

Last month, we featured the Eatons, a couple of academics in their 80s, who have written a book putting forth the idea of a new middle age.

Seventy-five, they say is middle age and old age about 20/30 years on.

They back up their premise, with plenty of

longevity statistics. In a sense they, too are disruptors as they challenge the traditional idea that 50 year old is way past middle age.

This Chair Rocks: A MANIFESTO AGAINST AGEISM by American author, Ashton Applewhite is another book that disputes conventional thinking. Applewhite writes: “The myth that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, plays out punishingly in many arenas.

Beliefs that older workers are not worth training because they are slow learners and computer-illiterate are stubbornly persistent, despite high marks from employers on both performance and skills (p.67), “Abundant data show that older workers are dependable, punctual, committed to quality, exhibit good judgment, have low absenteeism and accident rates, and are the most engaged of

all workers when offered the chance to grow and advance on the job.

Yet, because of ageism, employers constantly use age as a liability and set workers with decades of productive years ahead adrift.” (p.172).

How our generation ages is very different to other generations, yet often we are stuck with the same beliefs, prejudices, stereotypes that result in ageism.

An example of a brand new phenomenon is the “Grey Nomad” the retired generation who have departed from a quite life at home to seek out adventure, new knowledge and friendships on the road.

The “Grey Nomad’ is all about a curious spirit and of course the know-how to stay on the road.

I hope the profile, news and views in this edition, blow a fresh breath of air and disrupts the dust of ageism.

— Cheers Gail

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The Glebe

CSC5363

In this edition

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 15, 2017

Toowoomba & Darling Downs

Monday, May 15, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 3

Experience meets youth Harlaxton RSL Brass Band stays in tune with the times Alison Houston

YOUNG AT HEART: The RSL Brass Band performing on Anzac Day, conducted by musical director Tim Gray, can play far more than the old favourites.

PHOTO: SJR

Members of the Toowoomba Regional Youth Orchestra, something Toowoomba has not had for well over a decade.

also lent support to Tim’s establishment of the Toowoomba Regional Youth Orchestra, providing a musical outlet for traditional school, home-school and tertiary students.

TYRO has already grown to 35 members, aged from nine to 19, with a youth-focused repertoire including movie and musical tunes, pop and even dub step.

On June 4 they make their big debut alongside

the brass band, with a Stage and Screen Concert from 2pm at the USQ Concert Hall.

Proceeds, appropriately, go to Teen Challenge Toowoomba, one of many charities the band has helped over the years.

“I really wanted to do a public concert with these guys (the brass band) because they really are worth listening to in their own right,” Tim said.

A music teacher for about 24 years, and a

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Did you know that we have a sister city in Whanganui in New Zealand?

This year we’re visiting and we’d like to take you with us! We’ve partnered with Stonestreets Travel to create a stunning 14 day tour through the North Island of New Zealand. Departing from Toowoomba’s Wellcamp airport on 7 November, this legendary tour begins in Auckland and will show you the highlights of the North Island, including New Plymouth, Wellington, Napier, Rotorua and Paihia before returning to Toowoomba on 20 November.

For more info or to book, call Stonestreets Travel on 4687 5555 or visit www.stonestreets.com.au

Our Seniors Concerts are back for 2017!

Back by popular demand, the Seniors Concert will have you dancing and singing along to all the legends and classics!

Dates and Locations 17 May – Cambooya Hall 18 May – Highfields Pioneer Village 19 May – Goombungee Hall 24 May – Westbrook Hall 25 May – Cecil Plains Hall Details Concert starts 10am – 12 noon Morning tea from 9:30am

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timing and right people,” he said.

“When I told them about the idea they were more than open to helping the youngest generation to take up an instrument,” Tim said.

He plans to combine the brass band and orchestra for a couple of numbers at the USQ concert and is excited at the prospect, as he says, are brass band members, keen to share a musical legacy.

The band is always looking for new players of all ages and capabilities.

Some instruments and all uniforms are provided.

For more details contact call Mike Gowdie on 4632 5288.

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clarinet rather than a brass player himself, Tim has been with the brass band for just two years, but said he was delighted members welcomed new material that young people could relate to which would keep the music alive.

“They’re very much young at heart – not slowing down at all.

“Some bands get stuck playing the same songs over the years – and it gets old.

“We do still play the traditional songs for memorial services, which is very important, as well as old favourites, but they’re also open to playing new tunes like Happy from Despicable Me.” The brass band’s repertoire includes everything from Nearer My God to Thee to Puttin’ on the Ritz and In the Mood to Hey Jude, Baggy Trousers, La Bamba and Pirates of the Caribbean.

Tim said he had long wanted to establish a youth orchestra, which Toowoomba has not had for well over a decade, but the brass band had helped make it a reality.

“It was a case of right

Are you a Dad, Step Dad, Foster Dad, Granddad, Uncle, Brother or a male caregiver? First 5 Forever has a new group for men and their children from babies to 5 years old. These sessions will help you engage in your children’s learning through rhymes, songs, simple stories and movement. Starting 29 April, the sessions are fortnightly on Saturday at 10am and run for an hour at Toowoomba City Library Building.

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

Limited seating available, so book your seat now on 131 872.

Tapping into the Money Tree Toowoomba Regional Council will be providing one-day workshops on how to source grants, funds & other resources.

Community groups, sporting groups and charitable organisations are invited to attend.

The workshops will focus on an overview of the grants process and theory on how to submit a successful grant application.

Tuesday 16 May 2017 Toowoomba City Library, Level 3 Herries Street Toowoomba Thursday 18 May 2017 Clifton Library, Meara Place Clifton Numbers are limited, book by calling 131 872.

TRC_0517_SN

IF YOU’VE been to a major community festival or returned services-related event in Toowoomba, chances are you’ve heard the Harlaxton RSL Brass Band.

Formed in 1991, players were predominantly ex-servicemen, whose experiences stretched back to the Second World War. These days, the mixed-sex membership of about 30 players ranges in age from late teens to octogenarians.

“They are the first band for a long time where I feel more energised after a two-hour practice than I did going in,” musical director Tim Gray said.

“It’s just such a good atmosphere. My brief was ‘we want to get together, play music and have some fun’, so that’s their ethos.”

This year the band has

4 Seniors Toowoomba & Darling Downs

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 15, 2017

Bending the glass

Gail Forrer

CHRISTINE Danton is bending over backwards to convince us that ageing, just ain’t ageing – not the way it used to be anyway.

At 72 years’ young, Christine’s voice and viewpoints are stable and convincing. She stands firm as she challenges traditional thinking, but she ‘bends it like Beckham’ when she shows us why we should believe her.

Yet the truth is, when it comes to bending, Beckham wouldn’t come close to this amazing lady who has spent a lifetime performing as a contortionist and now into her seventh decade, has no intention of stopping.

Right now, the native South Australian who lives on 90 acres, by a lake and entertains regularly in the ‘The Spud Shed Barn Theatre’ on her property, is in America following an invitation to appear on a major television station.

The appearance is just one of the engagements that have acknowledged Christine’s unique skills

72-year-old stretches her spine to extend an extraordinary timeline and in particular their longevity. Christine sees it as a chance to break the glass ceiling of ageist attitudes.

Christine describes her amazing ability to fold into two, to master seemingly impossible physical positions as rather like doing yoga, a matter of training, and a refusal to stop doing what she loves.

“The same as yoga,” she said.

“You have to concentrate and focus on a pose.”

It is obvious that mind control has its part to play, as it harmonises with this incredibly elastic body. A human body that can stretch, unlock, roll and unroll in half with grace and suppleness borders on the freaky.

But Christine is far from an outlandish circus act.

She describes herself as an artist performing a

skilled craft that requires enormous dedication and training. When Christine developed her techniques, there were no schools teaching circus skills and contortionists were rare.

“I was the only one in Australia for many years,” she said.

Without a mentor, she went onto develop her own original material.

“I was driven to create,” she said.

She believes her natural gift may have been inherited from her mother, who ensured her children never missed a circus, and particularly enjoyed the acrobatic and trapeze acts. When Christine was about 4 and her sister Jo 2, she recalls her mother taking them into the backyard and showing them how to back bend with their hands on the floor, behind them – like a bridge.

“That was the moment,

HOW DOES SHE DO IT! Christine Danton doing the splits.

I understood that I knew that’s what I was going to do,” she said.

“And I never wavered.”

While there were no acrobatic lessons in the 1950s, there were dance classes and by 1956, at 13-years-old, her natural ability had gained her a two-year contract as a Channel 7 television dancer in the regular Tonight shows.

After that, at 17-years-old she made her way to Sydney and launched herself at the circus.

“It was a way to hone in and perfect the act,” she said.

With this experience behind her, she went onto perform in cabaret shows in Asia and Europe.

She said she never expected to be performing

at this stage of her life, but in a way she had no choice.

She said she went to retire in her mid-50s, but felt like a blob, and went back to her training.

These days Christine says she has adapted to her own body constraints with a training regime that includes three sessions a week, together with swimming.

Toowoomba & Darling Downs

Monday, May 15, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

ceiling of ageism

Seniors 5

Christine Danton bending over backwards.

And that’s the key to her philosophy.

“Don’t give up – adapt,” she recommends.

“Things do start to deteriorate,” she admits.

“Age can bring body issues and we need to adapt to new issues.”

■ Besides her performances in the “The Spud Shed – Barn Theatre,” Christine plays

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contract bridge and is a keen photographer.

She is also an in-demand motivational speaker and works under the business name – Bending the Rules.

Contact details: email: cdanton@chariot.net.au and facebook www.facebook.com/ christine.danton.35.

Christine Danton showing her amazing flexibility.

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Texas Rabbit Works is a rare remnant of history Alison Houston

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BOUNCING BACK: The Texas Rabbit Works will open to visitors from this month, sharing a unique history.

PHOTOS: MACINTYRE GAZETTE

daily and exported three tons of rabbit meat weekly to England.

Tradesmen earned more money trapping rabbits than by plying their trade and schoolchildren could earn more than their teachers.

Some of their stories have been digitally recorded to be shared with visitors.

“The rabbit industry was huge not just in Texas but across Australia at that time,” Lester explained.

“But this is the last remaining building of its kind in Australia.

“What we have here is a

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little time capsule for the whole industry, which we think is pretty unique.”

Lester said it was important to recognise both the economic impact the rabbit industry had on the community in its heyday and its historical significance.

“It’s a building that’s quite unique in that it acts like a giant refrigerator – with a big engine and compressors and ammonia piping through – at a time when producing ice was a very new thing,” he said.

While a major government grant fast-tracked the project,

CHRIS & LAUREN

Lester said fundraising had taken many forms through the years, including giving birth to the Texas Country Music Round-up, which will mark its 11th year this September.

“We think there will be a lot of interest in what we have achieved here,” Lester said.

“A lot of people have been involved in making this happen. The industry touched the whole district in some form.

“Whether you were from a grazing background and wanted rid of the rabbits, or the shearers and other working-class people who made a lot of money from it, generations of people are aware of the impact rabbits had.”

The Rabbit Works will be open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at Mingoola Rd, Texas.

Former rabbit trapper Cliff Beard is one of the locals happy to share their experiences of days gone by.

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LESTER Dawson has handled a lot of news since establishing the MacIntryre Gazette newsletter 22 years ago.

But there are few headlines of which he is more proud than ‘New Texas Rabbit Works Opens Doors on History’.

That’s because the secretary and former president of the Texas Qld Inc volunteer committee, which is custodian of the building, knows first-hand just how many people’s blood, sweat and tears went into the renovations, which have allowed the Rabbit Works to reopen to visitors.

“It’s part of our history and we are proud of our community and their dedication to convert the Rabbit Works into a wonderful visitor experience and bring this story to life,” Lester said.

Goondiwindi Regional Council’s David Hayward said the development had been guided by a community engagement process that invited hundreds of residents to share their stories, photos and history of the district’s rabbit days.

In the 1930s–60s, Texas was riding on the bunny’s back after the rabbit plague hit Queensland in the 1920s.

Within 10 years, despite (or perhaps partly because of) the Great Depression, the Rabbit Works employed 30 men, processed 6000 rabbits

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Open House opening eyes to stories of past

Fascinating look behind the facade of city buildings Alison Houston

TOOWOOMBA Open House is as much about the people and stories behind the buildings as the buildings themselves.

That’s according to architect, National Trust branch chair and volunteer Open House co-ordinator Stephanie Keays, who has called Toowoomba home since 1992.

“It’s the story of the buildings, the architects, the people who lived or worked there and the people who remember it … perhaps a story someone remembers from their grandmother,” Stephanie said.

To that extent, everyone’s experience of the 19 houses on display on Sunday, May 28, will be slightly different. ”The people here are really passionate about heritage,” Stephanie said.

“But I think sometimes it’s easy to take what you have around you for granted.

“Open House gives people an opportunity to look into places they’ve wondered about, poke about behind the scenes and see it from a different perspective.”

With that in mind, you may need to be careful following the event, because Stephanie said many people found themselves looking up, beyond shopfront faces to the beautiful architecture above.

STORIES TO TELL: Redlands at Concordia Lutheran College is one of 19 properties open for viewing during Open House. It was built in 1889 and purchased by the church in 1945.

PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

“It’s like classical music. They say the more you understand about it, the more you can appreciate good music – and it’s the same with architecture when you realise how much thought and effort goes into creating something, managing to balance the practical necessities with still making it an interesting building,” she said.

Standouts in this year’s program for Stephanie include the Flexi School on Chalk Dr, a modern building with a “really intriguing design” that “challenges the way people think about education and schooling”.

On the flipside is

Open House co-ordinator Stephanie Keays says the event provides a fascinating look into the city’s history.

Augusta’s Cottage in Campbell St, the history of which the National Trust is still trying to solve the

puzzle of.

While it is believed to have been built in the 1860s and was owned by

Augusta Alford, wife of Toowoomba mayor Henry King Alford, it’s not known if the couple ever lived there. You can enjoy scones and tea in the garden as you try to figure it out.

In an unusual twist, one of the buildings of note is actually the men’s toilet in Russell St. Built in 1919 and the oldest known existing public urinal in Queensland, Stephanie said it was one of the state’s first pieces of sewerage infrastructure.

She notes that in a very forward-thinking move, the mayor of the time also included a park around the toilet for beautification but didn’t give the building

a roof.

Up to 3000 people generally attend various properties during Open House, which Stephanie said was often a revelation that “really opens people’s eyes to what their city has”.

The full list of buildings and times they will open to the public is available at www.toowoombaopen house.com.au.

The website also gives details on special events including the Laneway and Hidden Building Secrets Discovery Walk, the Tombstone Tour, Architects’ Design Tour and Railway Heritage Tour, which start on Saturday, May 27, in the lead-up to Sunday’s event.

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Talk ‘n’ thoughts Ideas wanted for age-friendly future FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK GAIL FORRER

Group editor Seniors Newspapers network

A GLOBAL spotlight is flashing on the growing ageing population and governments around the world are responding with various age-friendly initiatives.

In Canada, this month, census data revealed that for the first time in census history, Canadians over 65-years-old outnumbered those under the age of 15.

In America, since 1963, May has been assigned as the Older Americans Month, a time to recognise the contribution seniors make to society.

In 1963, there were only 17 million Americans aged 65 years or older, compared to some 46 million today .

In 2005, a Congress of Gerontology and Geriatrics held in Rio de Janeiro, first conceived Global Age-Friendly Cities.

By 2007, WHO produced a Global Age-Friendly Cities Guide, with advice on how to make urban communities age-friendly through

community development, policy change and advocacy. The guide described the meaning of age-friendly: "An age-friendly city encourages active ageing by optimising opportunities for health, participation and security in order to enhance quality of life as people age.”

In practical terms, an age-friendly city adapts its structures and services to be accessible to and inclusive of older people with varying needs and capacities.

This month, Qld Government Seniors Minister Coralee O’Rourke

launched The Advancing Queensland: Age-friendly community grants program, which consists of a range of grants, from $25,000 up to $100,000 to help councils, various not-for-profit groups and the community turn big ideas into action to help make life better for seniors.

This first round of grants will focus on transport, housing and outdoor spaces Applications for the first round of grants close at 5pm, Friday, June 16.

More info at www.qld.gov.au/ agefriendlygrants.

Hurdles, highjumps and solutions

A reader addresses seniors housing plight I STARTED free Seniors Share Houses Facebook groups to help seniors find a solution to the affordable housing crisis.

But sharing isn’t for everyone. Particularly the many Seniors suffering PTSD from the stress of their experience with homelessness.

The States appear to be reluctant to continue their role as providers of public housing. If Scott Morrison proposes to scrap the funding for public housing to the States in favour of an aggregate model he needs to ensure that there is a timely process to expediently supply an adequate alternative.

The census will not provide the real and accurate numbers of homeless people in

Australia because they have only counted people that access homeless services. So many people that know there is no point, particularly after the Homeless Hotline rings out time and time again without even a call back message, and just give up. They continue to couch surf, sleep in their cars, if they have one, or end up sleeping rough on the streets.

There are 1800 members in my Seniors Share Houses groups and the numbers are growing daily.

Even within my groups, the demand is greater than the supply.

Government needs provide affordable homes for people immediately.

— Linda Mina

v FIND US ON FACEBOOK: Head to www.facebook.com/seniorsnews

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COMMITMENT, customer service and quality delivery of their job are the benefits employer Diann Weightman has discovered since taking on two staff members older than 50.

Both of her staff members have been employed under the government Restart program.

The 72-year-old employer, who has built her business Simply Stylish Fashion and Lingerie into a respected community operation, has been suffering with Parkinson’s for the past 10 years.

“I needed staff urgently so I turned to Tursa to help fulfil the requirements of the shop,” Ms Weightman said.

“I wanted someone who was sensible as we do fittings for bras and a lot of styling for people who don’t know how to dress themselves.”

Restart program employment agency Tursa’s Sunshine Coast region cluster manager,

Joanne Hickey, recommends that anyone older than 50 looking to re-enter the workforce should read these tips before starting their search: Resume ■ Make sure your resume is up to date.

■ Ensure the style of the resume is correct.

■ Usually use no more than two pages.

■ Stick to the most recent or 10–15 years of work experience.

■ Only include the relevant job experience.

■ You don’t need to put in your education from years ago, unless it is relevant to the job.

■ The resume must tell a story, not just provide a list of job titles and dates.

■ Highlight your biggest achievements for each job that is most relevant to the desired position you are applying for.

■ Always do a spell check.

Networking ■ Use your network to help you find a job.

■ If there is a particular industry you are interested in, join an

RESTART: Top tips on getting ready to re-enter the workforce with a Restart program employer. PHOTO: DIMA_SIDELNIKOV

association connected with it or even seek out volunteer opportunities to get your foot in the door.

■ It might be scary or daunting to have an online presence but it is easier than you think and you can have a professional LinkedIn profile which will give you a chance to link in with potential employers and recruiters, as well as create a positive first impression.

Skills ■ Update your skills.

■ Show that you are tech-savvy; know the Microsoft suite – internet, email, word and spreadsheets.

■ Keep up-to-date with

technology and if necessary, take a workshop.

■ Update your required service qualifications and licences, depending on the job you are looking to apply for.

Age as an asset ■ Don’t focus on your age; view your age as an asset.

■ Point out your competencies and skills to show the advantages of employing you over a younger applicant.

■ Remember, you have a lot of transferable skills from life, not just work.

For more information on Tursa, go to www.tursa.com.au.

Monday, May 15, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

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12 Seniors Toowoomba & Darling Downs

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 15, 2017

What’s on Top things to do in your area

MAY is month for Cystic Fibrosis, the most common genetic, life-shortening chronic disease affecting young Australians. Throughout May, CF Queensland puts out the call for individuals and groups to complete any challenge based around the number 65 to raise money for much-needed services – ride 65km, sing 65 songs, swim 65 laps, sell 65 cupcakes, it’s up to you.

Visit: www.cysticfibrosis. org.au/qld.

THE LEGENDS AND CLASSICS SENIORS CONCERTS

THE council-sponsored concerts are back to have you singing along and dancing to your favourite old tunes. They run from 10am–12pm, with morning tea from 9.30am.

Here’s where you can catch them: May 17 Cambooya Hall, May 18 Highfields Pioneer Village, May 19 Goombungee Hall, May 24 Westbrook Hall and May 25 Cecil Plains Hall. There is limited seating, so book on 131 872.

FIRST COAT FESTIVAL

ON FROM May 19–21 with your chance to wander through one of the country’s most extensive outdoor galleries and engage with more than 20 international and national artists brightening the streets with murals. There will be an artists’ market, rummage, and pop-up

JOURNALIST ALISON HOUSTON theatre as part of the weekend. Visit: www.firstcoat.com.au.

TOOWOOMBA BACKYARD GARDENERS AND PRODUCE MARKET

THIS amazing market is on again from 7am–12.30pm on May 20 at North State School, Taylor St. On the third Saturday of each month, you’ll find local plants, fruit, vegies, coffee beans, olives, chutneys and more from Toowoomba and surrounds, all sold by the people who made or planted them. Call 0477 002 956.

HAMPTON HIGH COUNTRY FOOD & ARTS FESTIVAL

GOOD CAUSE: On Thursday, May 25 support Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea. Enjoy a cuppa and raise funds for the Cancer Council.

SYDNEY WRITERS FESTIVAL

FOOD and arts is a delicious combination for many, and this annual festival offers just that on May 21. Highlights include signature dishes from the region’s best restaurants, cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, art exhibitions, boutique wines and local produce for sale. Visit: www. hamptonfestival.com.

IT’S not often you get something for free, so how about ‘attending’ the Sydney Writers Festival for free in Toowoomba? It’s all being streamed live and you can catch every session, beginning from 10am Friday, May 26 to 7pm Sunday, May 28 at the Empire Theatre. You can even participate in Q&A sessions, sending questions direct to the Sydney stage.

AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST MORNING TEA

VOICES FROM THE TRENCHES CHORAL FESTIVAL

THURSDAY, May 25 is the official , raising funds for the Cancer Council, so check out where your nearest event is and enjoy a cuppa for a cause.

THERE isn’t any doubt the centenary of the First World War has made us all more aware of events, and at 3pm on May 28, the Voices from the Trenches Choral festival, presents a

musical tribute to the soldiers who served and died in The Somme, France. It’s by Brisbane’s Voices of Birralee, one of Australia’s finest youth arts organisations, and will also involve local schools. It’s at the Empire Theatre. Adults $25.

Concessions available.

BUNYA MOUNTAINS

A PERFECT day trip awaits to Bunya Mountains, about 90 minutes from Toowoomba. Markets are held on the last Sunday of every month, so May 28 is your day. There’s more than 30 stalls of handmade goods, and Bunya nut delicacies including Bunya burgers, beef and Bunya nut pies, or perhaps some Bunya nut scones or icecream for the sweet-tooths. And of course there’s

wonderful walks in the national park.

CRT FARMFEST

IF YOU’RE on the land, you don’t want to miss the CRT Farmfest at Kingsthorpe – labelled Queensland’s premier primary industry field days on June 6–8.

Showcasing more than 2000 companies and attracting more than 60,000 visitors from across the nation, entry is just $5.

SAVE THE DATE: THE LAIDLEY SPRING FESTIVAL

ON SEPTEMBER 7–9, a popular three-day event to celebrate the arrival of spring. Nestled at the foot of the Great Dividing Range, the Lockyer Valley is about an hour’s drive

from Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Ipswich and Toowoomba are about 30 minutes of travel time.

Our main feature of the festival is the Quilt and Craft Expo. The display of quilts, craft, patchwork, stitchwork, needlework and fine arts has proved popular for more than 30 years. Demonstrations by the artisans are valued attractions. Displayed in the church grounds will be vintage trucks, tractors, cars and stationery engines. Refreshments will be available in the Courtyard Cafe. Opening hours are 9am–4pm Thursday and Friday and 9am–3pm on Saturday.

The expo is located at the Laidley Uniting Church Complex, 45 Patrick St, Laidley. Admission: adults $5 and children 50c. Visit: www.luvyalockyer.com.au.

s HIGHFIELDS BIG CUPPA! u n i Jo for LET’S GET TOGETHEER FOR TURE A CANCER-FREE FUT

Discover the perfect way to unwind with family & friends in our new facilities

HIGHFIELDS PIONEER VILLAGE THURSDAY, MAY 18 @ 10.30AM

$10 per person (Entry to Pioneer Village, Billy Tea & Damper) PRESENT THIS VOUCHER FOR 10% OFF VILLAGE MERCHANDISE ON THE DAY

Highfields Pioneer Village 73 Wirraglen Road, HIGHFIELDS

• Courtesy Bus • Bistro • Bar • Pokies • TAB • Keno • Sportsbet • Members Draw & Promotions

4696 6309

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phone 4633 1229

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now to reserve your table 564-582 Boundary St, Toowoomba I www.clubglenvale.com.au

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65 ROSES AWARENESS

Monday, May 15, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

advertising feature

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Seniors 13

Crown Currency’s brand new Toowoomba branch is now open! Talk to our friendly experts for all your travel money needs.

With zero commission, no fees and great rates, there’s no easier way to get set for your next adventure.

Currency Exchange • Money Transfer • Cash Passport • Travel Insurance & TravelSIM Shop 1A, Grand Central Shopping Centre, Victoria St (opposite Kmart), Toowoomba twb@crowncurrency.com.au crowncurrency.com.au 4602 7932 6592535aa

14 Seniors Toowoomba & Darling Downs

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GREY NOMADS

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Be curious and explore life far off the well-beaten path Hello travellers, This year’s edition of our dedicated Grey Nomads feature is jam-packed full of colourful stories that will surely inspire you to veer off the beaten path to a special camping site, travel solo or get up close and personal in Australia’s wildlife parks.

A huge factor in a successful trip is precise planning and preparation. As the old saying goes: "Foretold forewarned " and this certainly applies to caravanning. Caravan towing courses rate just as highly as ensuring your home security and packing sufficient camping materials.

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK GAIL FORRER

including RACQ’s popular Caravan and Trailer Towing Workshop, which will equip you with the knowledge and skills to safely tow a caravan, horse float, goods trailer or whatever other type of recreational trailer you plan on towing.

In this edition, we talk about reverse parking and the best way to achieve a painless and perfect park.

I trust you enjoy the read and perhaps try a night out with the big animals!

Happy trails to you, Gail

Group editor Seniors Newspapers network

For instance, RV parking can be a nightmare, and towing requires plenty of skills. If you are not sure, or are feeling a little daunted, it’s a good idea to learn the tricks of the trade before starting the trip. There are a number of driving school lessons available

New business adds a royal flavour TOOWOOMBA travellers have a new destination to check out before they head overseas with the opening of Crown Currency Exchange at Grand Central Shopping Centre.

The new business opened on May 8, bringing no fee currency exchange to town and adding new jobs for locals, six days a week.

Director, Jim Stewart-Koster, said Toowoomba had a nice mix of customers including locals who love to head overseas, as well as inbound travellers (especially uni students). The new store adds to Crown Currency’s Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Mackay network. Fellow Director Henry Koster said he was delighted to have opened the new shop.

“Our many existing customers in South East Queensland know us as the experts in foreign currency, and delivering the best rates on their foreign currency needs, as well as for charging no fees or commissions,” Mr Koster said.

“We have employed a local customer service team, all of whom are excellent ambassadors for Crown Currency Exchange, and we look forward to being of service to customers in Toowoomba and the Downs.”

The good news for senior travellers is Seniors Discounts are available! Just have your Seniors' Card handy. The business is also able to quote for your travel insurance needs, as well as offering a great value SIM card for overseas use, and international money transfers assistance.

Crown Currency Exchange, Victoria Street entrance of Grand Central Shopping Centre (opposite Kmart). Phone 4602 7932 or email twb@crowncurrency.com.au

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FAST FACTS: 5 REASONS CASH IS KING 1. Value for money: Cash offers you better value for money than cards, and also means no fees charged for use by financial institutions.

2. Ultimate convenience and ease of use: Cash is accepted everywhere and does not need an ATM, EFTPOS or communications network to be used (particularly if you are travelling to a destination off the beaten track).

3. Certainty of a fixed exchange rate: When you purchase cash, the exchange rate for your currency is fixed, meaning you don’t experience any ups and downs in the market while you are away 4. Limitation of loss: Should you suffer a loss, it is capped at the amount of cash lost. And, unlike cards, cash carries with it no risk of further loss or Identity Fraud (NB: carry your cards and ID documents separately from your cash).

5. Maximum privacy: Using cash requires no PIN, signature or ID.

Ove Curre r 80 Boughncies ta Sold nd Complete Currency Exchange Services

omer service te

Crown Currency’s brand new Toowoomba branch is now open! Talk to our friendly experts for all your travel money needs.

With zero commission, no fees and great rates, there’s no easier way to get set for your next adventure.

Currency Exchange • Money Transfer • Cash Passport • Travel Insurance & TravelSIM Shop 1A, Grand Central Shopping Centre, Victoria St (opposite Kmart), Toowoomba twb@crowncurrency.com.au crowncurrency.com.au 4602 7932 6592535ab

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CARAVANNING: Master the art of reverse parking before you head off on holiday.

10 things to know

before setting off in your RV

Compiled by Nicky Norman

What is an RV? RV STANDS for Recreational Vehicle and is basically a home on wheels. They can also be referred to as motorhomes or camper vans. The main features on-board are a kitchen, a bathroom, beds and TV, some even have a washing machine. An RV is different from a caravan because it is a self-driving vehicle and has an engine, steering wheel and a driver’s seat, whereas a caravan is towed behind another vehicle.

1. RV OR A CARAVAN

BUYING an RV can be an excellent investment and a great way to have the flexibility to travel without depending on hotel reservations and airports. You can cook for yourself, keep all your clothes hanging in a closet rather than in a suitcase, and generally make yourself at home. In some cases, people live in their motorhome, meaning no mortgage or rent to pay. For the most part though, RVs are used as vacation homes.

2. SIZE AND TYPE

THERE are a wide range of RV’s available to buy or rent, so it is important that you have some idea of your needs. Keep in mind your required levels of comfort, privacy, security, where you want to travel and what is within your budget.

3. KNOW THE FEATURES

WHEN you have your RV, be sure to pay particular attention to all the features.

Ensure that everything is in a proper working order and good condition if not new and that all the safety features are present within the vehicle.

4. INSURANCE OPTIONS

INSURANCE coverage is always a good idea because you never know when you may need it. Just like your car or home, it’s important to have the peace of mind.

5. DRIVING YOUR RV

BEFORE you head out on the open road, get to know your vehicle by practising a few manoeuvres around the car park.

First-timers often struggle with reversing and parking and it will also take some time to get used to driving the vehicle itself. Giving it a test drive will also allow you to test out the features and ensure that you are a confident driver.

6. PACKING YOUR RV

YOU can pack light and leave the extra space for items on the go or be fully prepared with everything planned out to the last detail and stocked up ready for long distances.

7. BOOK CAMPING GROUNDS IN ADVANCE PLAN ahead and get to know the best

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camp grounds in the areas you are wishing to stay. By booking in advance you will be guaranteed a place to stay for the night and you will get the pick of RV sites. When you leave the camp site, make sure you have your aerial down, hatch closed and windows up.

8. ENSURE THE SECURITY OF YOUR LOAD

BEFORE you head off, make sure everything is put away in cabinets and cupboards, to prevent them flying around while you are driving. Ensuring the weight of your load is distributed evenly, will also aid with wind resistance and make your journey a smoother one.

9. REGISTER WITH CMCA

WITH over 66,000 members, Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australa is the largest RV Club in the southern hemisphere. As a CMCA member, not only will you have access to numerous benefits but the security of travelling Australia, knowing you are never alone. www.cmca.net.au/.

10. THINGS YOU CAN DO

YOU will have a lot of free time, so make sure you keep busy with crosswords, playing cards, board games, reading, music and creative activities like painting, knitting and sewing.

Speci Rates al Senio for rs

Reverse parking your van REVERSE parking your caravan for the first time, particularly when one or more people are watching, has to be one of the most stressful experiences in your life.

Luckily RACQ has the following top tips to help you look like a professional, once you have mastered these tips.

■ Spend time getting familiar with the basics of reversing a caravan before you set out on a trip.

■ Get yourself a person to help guide you into the parking area.

■ Find a large space, such as an empty car park, and try reversing the caravan into one of the spaces.

This will help you to get a handle on which direction to turn the steering wheel.

■ Remember – when reversing a caravan is that to move right you need to turn the steering wheel to the left and vice versa.

■ Before reversing into a site, take a moment to look around the area for low branches or other debris that could get in the way.

■ One of the easiest ways to swing the caravan into a site is to ensure that the site is on the right-hand side of the car.

■ If you are not feeling confident and don’t have a fellow traveller to give you directions, you could try asking another caravanner for assistance.

■ Reversing cameras are a great help when reversing; we use them every day in cars so why not with your caravan?

Crown Currency’s brand new Toowoomba branch is now open! Talk to our friendly experts for all your travel money needs.

With zero commission, no fees and great rates, there’s no easier way to get set for your next adventure.

Currency Exchange • Money Transfer • Cash Passport • Travel Insurance & TravelSIM Shop 1A, Grand Central Shopping Centre, Victoria St (opposite Kmart), Toowoomba twb@crowncurrency.com.au crowncurrency.com.au 4602 7932

16 Seniors Toowoomba & Darling Downs

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‘Bucket list’ glamping destinations not to be missed Compiled by Nicky Norman

Paperbark Camp, Jervis Bay, New South Wales.

Rare bush camp site locations BUSH Heritage Australia has opened a range of protected reserves that are perfect to experience nature in its purest form.

Here are some locations: NEW SOUTH WALES ★Naree Station – guided tour, September 8–10. Must be booked in advance.

Spend a long weekend travelling through Naree’s 14,400ha patchwork of woodlands, grasslands and ephemeral wetlands Two nights, Base camp with day tours. Vehicles: AWD/4WD. Cost: $220/adult.

QUEENSLAND ★Carnarvon Station Reserve – camping (May–September).

The reserve features rugged sandstone hills, narrow valley floors and high escarpments. It’s located about 900km west of Brisbane.

TASMANIA ★Liffey Valley Reserves – day trip (self guided).

The Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage wilderness 130ha reserves is a wonderful area to walk in.

VICTORIA ★JC Griffin Nature Reserve – uided visits, September 16 or October 15.

Some of the trees in this reserve are thought to be more than 300 years old.

It’s a haven for bushland birds, reptiles and mammals Booking/more info: Contact Bush Heritage’s Katrina Blake on (03) 8610 9124.

LOVE nature but also love a few creature comforts?... then glamour camping, or “glamping” as it is better known, might be perfect for you.

It allows you to commune with nature in the comfort of a luxurious tent and experience Australia’s nature in glorious, eco-friendly style. You get the simplicity of the great outdoors combined with the opulence of fresh linen, private bathrooms, spa treatments and gourmet meals prepared for you. Here are some of the top glamping locations throughout the country.

ROOM WITH A VIEW: Ro

NIGHTFALL WILDERNESS CAMP, QLD

Where: 45 minutes from the Gold Coast, beside the crystal-clear tumbling headwaters of Christmas Creek and Queensland’s ancient Lamington National Park rainforests.

Highlights: Redefining luxury through architect-inspired, hand-built, permanent safari tents, sumptuous fire-cooked cuisine, secluded wilderness, rotating in-tent fireplace, vintage baths, rain-head showers and more. Only three guests tents ensure privacy and delicately positioned to minimise impact on the camp's sensitive Australian wilderness surrounds.

Cost: Tents from $445. www.nightfall.com.au

LONGITUDE 131°, NT

Where: Overlooking Uluru (Ayers Rock) is located in the Red Centre of Australia.

Highlights: Luxurious air-conditioned tents welcome private views of Uluru – Australia’s best-known natural icon – and comprise of king or twin beds, lounge, spacious bathroom and balcony with daybed and fireplace. Other features include complimentary in-suite bar, music system, wireless internet, climate control, premium amenities, bathrobes, safe, telephone and twice daily housekeeping.

Cost: Luxury tent from $1350 per person per night inclusive (min. two night stay). www.longitude131.com.au

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ar and Snore, Sydney.

Highlights: The deluxe teepee have a timber and canvas construction, built within the natural bushland without major clearings, giving a privacy and a close connection with the peaceful surroundings. Teepees include a sofa bed, towels, bedding, wood fired heater, balcony and outdoor furniture, shared shower and outdoor two person bath. This Tasmanian glamping experience combines comfort and nature at a low price.

Cost: From $100 per night or less for long stay. www.huonbushretreats.com

IKARA SAFARI CAMP, SA

ROAR AND SNORE, NSW

Where: Taronga Zoo, Mosman, Sydney.

Highlights: Taronga Zoo Sydney’s ultimate sleepover experience. Enjoy refreshments and nibbles at the zoo's harbourside campsite, followed by an opportunity to get up close with some of the zoo’s friendliest creatures with a 1.5 hour night safari. Camp in safari style tents in the heart of Taronga Zoo and wake up to spectacular views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, with a continental breakfast in the morning.

Cost: Roar and Snore accommodation is from $300 per person per night. www.taronga.org.au

Where: Wilpena Pound Resort, Ikara Flinders Ranges National Park, 429km north of Adelaide.

Highlights: Fifteen luxury safari tents.

Two-person Ikara safari tents are suitable for singles or couples wanting a luxury “glamping” getaway.

Each tent has a modern ensuite bathroom, a luxe king-size bed, reverse cycle air-conditioning and its own private deck and fire pit. The two family safari tents sleep up to four people and have all the luxuries of the couples’ tents with an annex added for the extra people.

Costs: Tents from $320 a night, including breakfast. www.ikarasafaricamp.com.au

PEBBLE POINT, VIC

KARIJINI ECO RETREAT, WA

Where: Three kilometres from the Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road, about 2.5 hours from Melbourne.

Highlights: An exclusive bush retreat nestled behind the cliff tops and rock formations of the world famous Twelve Apostles. Six spacious luxury tents with luxurious king-size beds with a natural latex mattress and all your linen and towels supplied and spacious ensuite bathrooms. Also a shared BBQ, tea and coffee facilities, camp kitchen with fridge and offering a range of recreational opportunities and natural experiences.

Cost: From $145 per night. www.pebblepoint.com.au

HUON BUSH RETREAT, TAS

Where: Ranelagh, Huon Valley. About 50 minutes south of Hobart.

Speci Rates al Senio for rs

Where: Karijini National Park, in the nature-based destination of the Pilbara region of Western Australia.

Highlights: Stay in one of the eco tents for a comfortable and natural glamping experience within the national park.

These tents are semi-permanent structures that incorporate ecologically sustainable principles and can easily be erected and dismantled in remote areas with little impact to the natural environment using recycled materials wherever possible.

Each tent has its own private ensuite bathroom, front and rear deck, spacious stylish interiors, king-size bed or two single beds, and quality bedding and linen.

Cost: From $315 including breakfast. www.karijiniecoretreat.com.au

Crown Currency’s brand new Toowoomba branch is now open! Talk to our friendly experts for all your travel money needs.

With zero commission, no fees and great rates, there’s no easier way to get set for your next adventure.

Currency Exchange • Money Transfer • Cash Passport • Travel Insurance & TravelSIM Shop 1A, Grand Central Shopping Centre, Victoria St (opposite Kmart), Toowoomba twb@crowncurrency.com.au crowncurrency.com.au 4602 7932

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Seniors 17

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Get animal WOW factor into your next holiday

Tracey Johnstone

WHEN you head out to have fun on the road, have you ever thought about pitching your tent close to where you can drop in on some of Australia’s fantastic animal encounter parks?

Right around Australia there are some amazing animals to meet in venues that are well-known and others that are luckily still not on the main tourism radar.

So, let’s pack the tent, the caravan or camper home and get discovering just a few of the many animal encounters on offer.

Sleep with a lion tonight in Canberra ■ Jamala Wildlife Lodge is on Lady Denman Drive in Canberra.

■ Park your caravan outside and indulge yourselves for just one night, at least.

■ The park boasts the most dangerous and endangered wildlife and aquarium experiences.

■ There is a choice of three accommodation venues, with the cost including exclusive park tours, all food and night-time drinks.

■ The rooms are quite snazzy with each featuring African themes and many have wildlife sleeping with you, albeit on the

other side of some safety glass.

■ Get in early to enjoy amazing encounters with red pandas, white lions, owls, sharks, tigers, otters, giraffe, tree kangaroos, meerkats, sunbears and cheetahs.

Roar ‘n Snore in Melbourne ■ Melbourne Zoo is located in the heart of Melbourne.

■ It offers guests, between September and May, the chance to stay overnight within its grounds with camping equipment provided; you just need to bring a sleeping bag and pillow.

■ Dinner is in the historic Elephant Exhibit.

■ Once dinner is done, guests get to wander around the zoo, enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of the nocturnal creatures before bedding down for the night.

■ In the morning, the local residents will wake you for breakfast and a full day of amazing up-close animal encounters.

■ The cost includes camping equipment, meals and Zoo day ticket.

Have a wild night out in Sydney ■ Walkabout Wildlife Park is located just north of Sydney on Darkinjung Road at Calga.

■ There are various accommodation

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choices on site; bush survival with no creature comforts and lots of bush survival skills to be learnt, evening and morning ranger-led animal encounters and eco-cabin luxury so you can wake up with the animals, a ranger-led tour with comfortable camping, including just a few luxuries, or chose grown-up cottage accommodation with comforts and bush outlook.

■ The park has many different types of animals in its bushland setting: koalas, dingoes, Tasmanian devil, python, emus, wallaroos, skinks, turtles and many more.

Mingle with the Meerkats in South Australia ■ Monarto Zoo is located on the Old Princes Highway in Monarto.

■ The park is over 1000 hectares zoological park and natural wilderness sanctuary.

■ It also has a centre for conservation and enjoyment of wildlife and nature.

■ The park boasts 500 animals and 50 species of exotic and native mammals, birds and reptiles and plays a major role nationally and internationally in rare breeding and endangered species programs.

■ Visitors can book in to sleep under

Speci Rates al Senio for rs

the stars in your tent, caravan or sleeping bag on special dates during the year.

Volunteer in Northern Territory ■ Nina’s Ark Wildlife Sanctuary is an outback wildlife sanctuary located near Litchfield National Park.

■ Access to the private park and veterinary clinic is limited to April through December.

■ Tours, which are not self-drive, are available once booked.

■ It’s a refuge for orphaned or injured native animals.

■ The volunteers come from all over the globe to work with orphaned and injured wildlife.

■ The park is host to many animal species, including brush tailed possum, wallaby, wallaroo, black footed tree rat, bandicoot, northern quoll, partridge pigeon, brumbies, cockatoos, curlew and black-necked stork.

■ Basic, clean accommodation for a maximum of two nights is available on site with the $150 per night fee, including pick up from the entrance, three meals both days and torch.

■ At night guests join in a BBQ by the camp fire and feed some of the animals.

Crown Currency’s brand new Toowoomba branch is now open! Talk to our friendly experts for all your travel money needs.

With zero commission, no fees and great rates, there’s no easier way to get set for your next adventure.

Currency Exchange • Money Transfer • Cash Passport • Travel Insurance & TravelSIM Shop 1A, Grand Central Shopping Centre, Victoria St (opposite Kmart), Toowoomba twb@crowncurrency.com.au crowncurrency.com.au 4602 7932 6592535ae

18 Seniors Toowoomba & Darling Downs

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 15, 2017

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10 best things to take on the road ■ 3. CAMERA

If you have a phone with good quality pics or a camera for the higher resolution pics, either is a must.

■ 4. MULTI-FUNCTION CHARGERS

COOL OFF: Ta

ke a refreshing

Let’s face it, you need a charger for everything these days, from your phone to laptop to tablet and kindle to list a few. If you have a multi-charging station you can charge multiple items at once and not have to run around trying to find the right charger. Save space and time.

dip.

Christine Perkin

■ 1. CAMPS AUSTRALIA WIDE 9

Must-have Camps Australia Manual is probably the most useful item you will buy for your trip, which includes maps for all over Australia and it is always safe to have hard copies of maps just in case you can’t get a signal for your phone or GPS. You can use the map as a way of mapping your trip as well so you know where you have been and where you want to go. A GPS is also a necessity to help get where you want to go. Go

www.campsaustraliawide.com for details.

■ 2. JOURNAL

Writing where you have been and what you did is a great way to keep track of your trip. When you move to a different location you don’t always remember where and what you have experienced.

Great way to reminisce down the track with your journal.

horse is a handy clothes line.

■ 7. BBQ

Either a wood or gas lidded BBQ can be very handy to cook a roast, veggies etc., outside the van/RV.

■ 8. BIKE

Bikes are a great way to see small towns and take a bike tour. If you are in a RV you can be limited to travel once you set up your camp and you need something down the shops that are a few kms away hop on a bike and do a bit of exercise at the same time. Saves having to pack up.

■ 5. FIRST AID KIT

■ 9. SATELLITE TV SYSTEM

■ 6. WASHING BUCKET

■ 10. SPARE SET OF KEYS

Vital to have one of these as you can’t always be in the right place at the right time. If you wear hearing aids, it’s good idea to take a little emergency kit with extra batteries and tubes and don’t forget your drying kit.

You can buy a cheap white bucket with a lid make sure the lid is tight and fill halfway with water a bit of washing powder and fill with clothes so they can move around and when you are on the road let the motion of the road do the work for you. When you stop, drain and rinse and dry as per normal. Clothes

For the TV watcher, the Satellite TV is a fantastic addition to your trip. You can watch good quality tele out in the middle of nowhere. Sat Plus call 07 5443 5517 or 07 5443 5513 or email info@satplus.com.au Very important to have spare keys. If you lose them out in the middle of nowhere you would be in big trouble. Not always easy to get replacement, and when you do, you will probably have to wait for the keys to arrive, which can be costly.

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TOP SPOT: So

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Retirees turn grey into green LEN and Valerie Warren are using their skills and passion to preserve Australia’s landscape for future generations. They are just two of an enthusiastic army of volunteers who each year travel to remote Australian bushland settings to work on preserving Australia’s landscape and wildlife for the national not-for-profit organisation Bush Heritage.

Before volunteering, Len and Valerie suggest some handy advice:

1. You need to love the bush. 2.

Some of the properties are quite remote and the conditions are basic.

3. Knowing how to read a map helps in finding the location of remote reserves. 4. A good GPS is valuable.

5. You need to be totally self contained with your own food. 6.

Most reserve accommodation has air-cond. 7. Volunteers can connect on-site via wi-fi. 8. Anyone with infrastructure skills would be valued.

Toowoomba & Darling Downs

Monday, May 15, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

GREY NOMADS

Seniors 19

Proudly brought to you by

Follow the spa trail

and relax

LUXURIATE your way across Australia as you enjoy relaxing, recuperating or repairing your tired body in mineral and artesian baths.

Spa Trekking is the latest travel fad that really should have taken off a long time ago.

Imagine arriving into town, loaded down with travel aches and pains, and being able to slide into a natural experience that will probably have you purring with relief by the end of a session.

Whether it’s the soothing minerals or the outback surrounds that draws people in, hot springs and mineral baths seem to be the ultimate source of relaxation.

Geothermal and natural mineral waters are believed to have effective physical and mental benefits.

They are used in many locations around the world for therapeutic reasons as users enjoy the natural healing process of soaking in a pure experience which contains various concentrations of minerals.

Visiting these spas is becoming a popular tourist activity for people wanting authentic health and lifestyle experiences based around geothermal and natural mineral water resources and which may include such services as saunas, mud baths, hydrotherapy and massage.

Armed with Steve Lambert’s Great Thermal Way, grey nomads can spend their travel time moving from one spa to another; such as – ■ Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs in Tasmania, ■ Francois Peron National Park Homestead near Monkey Mia, West Australia, and ■ El Questro in Kununurra in the heart of the Kimberleys, ■ Innot Hot Springs in Queensland’s Atherton Tablelands, ■ Peninsular Hot Springs on Mornington Peninsular in Victoria, ■ NSW’s Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre, Hot Springs Pools & Units, and Gwydir Carapark Motel & Thermal Pools, ■ North of Moree at Boomi’s Co-Op Hot Artesian Spa Pool & Caravan Park, ■ Lightning Ridge’s Bore Baths in western NSW. “There are 50 currently identified hot springs, bore baths and natural springs in Australia,” Mr Lambert writes.

“They are detailed in this revised new edition which also includes updated and new material.

“This includes information pertaining to the early pioneers and the drilling methods they used to tap this great resource.”

Mr Lambert’s book is available online through www.greatthermalway.com.

Lightning Ridge Artesian Bore Baths

Do as little or as much as you like Take the time to RELAX, RE-ENERGISE and RECUPERATE OPEN 7 DAYS

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Travel the Great Artesian Drive to discover seven distinctive and unique artesian spa facilities in the North West of NSW. www.greatartesiandrive.com.au

Feeling weary from your Travels, or just looking for a place to relax?

The benefits of soaking in mineral rich artesian water should sooth and revitalise you straight away 'It’s like nothing you’ve ever experienced!

For your enjoyment • Mineral rich naturally heated Artesian Pools • Artesian Soak & Sauna Retreat • Private Artesian Baths • Massage & Facials

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“Great treat after a day of driving.”

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A trip to the Ridge would not be complete without a visit to the free Artesian Bore Baths.

At the end of a hard day fossicking and exploring allow the water to soothe your aches while you gaze at the starry night sky.

User: Geoff.Crockett

Time: 05-12-2017 10:30 Product: SET

PubDate: 15-05-2017 Zone: All

Edition: Main

Page: GREY_NOMADS_08

20 Seniors Toowoomba & Darling Downs

GREY NOMADS

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 15, 2017

Proudly brought to you by

Tracey Johnstone

HEADING out on the Australian road as a single woman, towing a caravan for the first time and with a heavy heart after the recent death of her husband, Betty Quinn has proven she has the drive to continue living a full life.

She travelled 19,756km around Australia in convoy with three couples, with an average age of about 70, taking just under five months to discover that outback Australia is “simply gorgeous”.

“Why would you want to go anywhere else when you have Australia,” Betty said.

During June to October they travelled from the Sunshine Coast across western Queensland and into Northern Territory, along the West Australian coast and then across South Australia, into Victoria before heading back up the East Coast to Queensland.

She fell in love with West Australia’s coastline and Broome in particular, the Bungle Bungles, and her must-see recommendation of Katherine Gorge.

Fiercely independent, 68-year-old Betty took to the challenge of the road trip with great delight and a little bit of cheek.

“They generally put me in the middle of the pack; they didn’t trust me at the end in case I picked up a stray along the way,” Betty said with a smile.

“I did get to lead a few times, once when we went into the Northern Territory.”

The whole idea of the trip happened almost by accident.

Her brother Randall was chatting about how he, his wife, and two other couples were planning another caravanning trip around Australia.

“I just said, ‘can I come’ and he said if I bought myself a caravan and a decent car to pull it, I could come along,” Betty said.

Being determined and self-sufficient character, Betty didn’t delay in putting a plan into action.

She found the car first, choosing a second-hand diesel, automatic 4WD Hyundai ix35.

Then it was time for finding a 14-foot, pop-top caravan with single beds, which is what her brother recommended.

“I was researching on Gumtree for a while, but then one of the guys travelling with us saw a caravan on the side of the road down near his place,” Betty said.

“Next morning my brother, sister-in-law, daughter and I jumped in the car and went to check it out.

“I made an offer on the spot.”

Preparing for the big journey involved doing several short trips away in the company of her brother, and then with her daughter Stacey.

She didn’t take any driving lessons, preferring to learn along the way, except for reversing.

“One of the guys would park it for me.

“But for hooking up and unhooking, putting the annex out and putting it away, I did that by myself.”

A single girl’s tale of outback adventure

heavily on the app Wiki Camps to find free camp sites which Betty said she would recommend to anyone doing a caravanning trip.

The trip proved a happy experience and an Enjoying the magnific affordable ent view over Lake Arg yle, near Kununurra, West one. She Australia. spent about PHOTO: BETTY QUINN $45,000 on the car and caravan, and s at a e of the working vehicle then another Betty Quinn beside on Australia. $2500 for the mine in Dampier, West PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED diesel.

With free camping at Adjusting to living in a confined space faithful friend, Amber, which meant that several places she saved a lot so her was relatively easy for Betty as she had when it came time to visiting national accommodation and food costs came spent the previous eight years living on a parks, she would leave her poodle with down to under $8000. power boat with her husband. one of the couples who would visit the Back home, Betty has her caravan “One thing about living on the boat park on another day. safely parked in a free caravan parking and living in a caravan, you know when “That was the only drawback from area within her retirement village while you use something, you put it away; you travelling with a pet,” she said. she plans her next adventure. can’t leave stuff lying around,” she said.

While her brother and his friends “I would love to do the trip again, but At her side throughout the trip was her planned the trip, on the road they relied take a shorter time,” Betty said.

Now here’s a little caravanning secret worth sharing WIKICAMPS is a camping and caravanning companion you don’t leave home without, even if you are only planning on a weekend away.

It’s a free app for smart phones, tablets or Windows computers.

The app information states it has the largest and most up-to-date database of camp grounds, caravan

parks, backpacker hostels, day use area, points of interest, information centres, public dump points and more.

The database is kept up-to-date by users so you can contribute to its knowledge as you travel the length and breadth of Australia.

It also works offline which is great if you are somewhere that doesn’t have

a wi-fi signal.

To start using the app, download its content to your device before you go away so you have it with you right from the start of your happy travels.

To find the app, go to www.wikicamps.com.au.

Toowoomba & Darling Downs

Monday, May 15, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

GREY NOMADS

Seniors 21

Proudly brought to you by

10 best camp spots in Australia Compiled by Christine Perkin

HERE are a few of my picks of great stays around Australia.

BAY OF FIRES TASMANIA

BAY of Fires is one of the most beautiful low-cost camping spots locations in Tasmania. Tasmanians have flocked to the Bay of Fires over Christmas, Easter, long weekends and on school holidays to soak up the beauty of the area, including the white sand and azure sea.

St Helens is only a short drive away, where you can buy food, petrol and showers at council-operated facilities.

Please remember that dogs are not allowed in national parks and most reserves. Details go to www.parks.tas.gov.au

MYRTLE PARK TARGA – TASMANIA

A VERY pretty camping area that is set alongside the St Patricks River, which boasts to have trout and platypus. They offer unpowered sites and good amenities, and the area is suitable for large caravans, motorhomes and big rigs. Located in the small town of Targa, halfway between Launceston and Scottsdale on the Tasman Hwy (A3).

Bookings are recommended for those wanting to reserve a site with a fireplace.

Free hot showers, free electric barbecue.

Phone: 03 6399 3368. Cost from $10 per person per night. Located at 38250 Tasman Hwy, Targa TAS 7259.

WANGI FALLS CAMPGROUND – LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK-NORTHERN TERRITORY

NOT a free camp but very cheap fees.

Wangi Falls Campground is one of six campgrounds located within the Litchfield National Park. Non-powered caravan camping sites are only available at Wangi Falls. 4WD camping areas (dry season only) are at Tjaynera Falls (Sandy Creek), Surprise Creek Falls and downstream from Florence Falls. Walk-in camping sites are available along Walker Creek (dry season only).

Camping fee per night: Adults: $6.60.

Bookings are essential.

Generators are not permitted in Litchfield National Park. Swim only where recommended, observe warning signs.

Pets are not permitted. Check access by calling 08 8976 0282 and go to www.nt.gov.au/leisure/parks-reserves for details.

DALY WATERS PUB – NORTHERN TERRITORY

THIS is a must-stop Outback Pub. A lot of fun in the middle of nowhere. The beef ‘n’ barra barbie every night between April and October is to die for. It is so popular that you need to book. Free entertainment nightly. Accommodation available. Powered camping sites with prices starting from $16 per person per night.

Located Stuart St, Daly Waters,

Northern Territory. If you are travelling south from Darwin approximately 600kms. Turn right off the Stuart Highway 3kms to the pub. Travelling north from Alice Springs approximately 900kms. Turn left off the Stuart Highway.

Phone: 08 8975 9927, email dalywaterspub@bigpond.com or go to www.dalywaterspub.com

BITTER SPRINGS ELSEY NATIONAL PARK – NORTHERN TERRITORY

THE beauty of these springs will surprise you. Discovered by surveyors for the overland telegraph line in the latter part of the 19th Century, the Bitter Springs are located two kilometres from Mataranka in the Katherine region. Set amongst palms and tropical woodlands in the Elsey National Park, these spring-fed thermal pools are an ideal place to relax and unwind.

Non-powered campsites are available at Jalmurark Campground. Phone: 08 8975 4560. There are also privately run campgrounds near the park. Located Martin Road, Mataranka.

BERRY SHOWGROUND CAMPSITE BERRY – NSW

BERRY is lucky to have one of the best showgrounds in New South Wales. With its superb well-maintained lawns, shady areas and many historic buildings on site, it is a fantastic place for alia.

Broome, Western Austr tent, trailer or caravan SCENIC: Roebuck Bay, camping. Pet friendly.

The railway station is immediately behind the Showground so you can catch the train Heritage Fraser Island. The Pacific Ocean up to Sydney for the day. is on the eastern side and the Great Located at 35 Alexandra Street, Berry Sandy Strait is on the western side.

NSW 2535 Phone 0427 605 200.

Inskip Point Camping Ground is a nature-based recreational area.

INSKIP POINT CAMPING All Inskip Point Camping Grounds GROUND – RAINBOW BEACH SE require valid camping permits. You can QUEENSLAND obtain these permits by: booking Online ENJOY the beauty of Inskip Point www.nprsr.qld.gov.au or by calling Camping Ground which is located 13 74 68 or by booking in person at opposite the southern tip of World number of locations in Rainbow Beach.

ROEBUCK BAY BROOME – WESTERN AUSTRALIA

ROEBUCK Bay Caravan Park enjoys an idyllic location with uninterrupted views over Roebuck Bay. Roebuck Bay Caravan Park is not what you would call a low-cost park with fees for a small powered site starting around $36, but it is the most popular park in Broome and is located right on Town Beach, Roebuck Bay. Broome is Western Australia’s secret getaway – right on the Indian Ocean’s doorstep and the gateway to Australia’s last frontier of pristine wilderness – the Kimberley. Contact details 08 9192 1366.

PALM COVE HOLIDAY PARK – NORTH QUEENSLAND

ONLY metres from the beach in a beautiful location with state-of-the-art facilities to make your stay all the more enjoyable. Pet friendly. Reasonably priced at $29 without power a night with specials available. Located at 149 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove QLD. For details contact 07 4055 3824 or email info@palmcovehp.com.au.

GENOA CAMPGROUND – VICTORIA

Genoa Rest Area is located at the bank of Genoa River with site suitable to caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs. The area is large and grassy with accessible amenities and has lots of large trees for shade. Genoa River is 14km West of the Victoria/NSW border on the Princes highway. The Genoa Campground is located on the old Princes Highway (4 Park Road) just North of the Genoa River bridge.

There is no charge for the use of this facility, however, donations are requested to upkeep the area.

THE PUB WITH NO Did you know the “Cosmopolitan” Hotel, Which locals refused to pass Is now a noted landmark, For every creed and class For the pub one day ran out of beer, A bloke wrote of it’s fate another bloke made it a song, Its known world wide now mate.

BEER * Under new management

* Wide range of tap beer and craft beer

* Great food with generous portions

* Pizzas available at any time of the day (great for campers with a late arrival, you can always grab something to eat) * Great collection of Slim Dusty & Gordon Parsons memorabilia * Campsite just across the road with a BBQ, amenities, and access to our gas heated showers * Our accommodation consists of 9 rooms and can sleep 33 people.

Standard rooms as well as bunk rooms starting from $25/night * Popular spot for camping groups and motorbike groups. * Great local trails for bike riders and horse riders 6584868aa

www.pubwithnobeer.com

4 Taylors Arm Rd, Taylors Arm NSW 2447 (02) 6564 2100 • info@pubwithnobeer.com

22 Seniors Toowoomba & Darling Downs

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 15, 2017

GREY NOMADS

Proudly brought to you by

Grey nomads can do something

positively green for the environment

OUT there in the vast, wide land of Australia are opportunities for grey nomads to make a difference to their future and that of their children by contributing to environmental projects.

Bush Heritage welcomes volunteers to help the not-for-profit organisation work to protect Australia’s long-term natural environment through acquiring and preserving reserves that it determines have high conservation value or environmental significance.

Its 37 reserves and partnerships are across all of Australia, taking in six million hectares. The Bush Heritage team work principally in what it coins its ‘priority landscapes’, which are selected based on national biodiversity priorities, the location of its existing reserves and where the organisation

GO GREEN: Volunteers help ecologist Angela Sanders set up new phascogale nesting boxes on Kojonup Reserve, WA.

wishes to establish strategic partnerships.

Community engagement officer Jo Axford said Bush Heritage always had room for more volunteers.

“Last year we had a big increase in volunteer registrations, with 480 active volunteers doing 270 activities,” Ms Axford said.

Most of the volunteers are aged 56 and over.

Skills needed ■ Some positions require specific skills while others require a can-do attitude.

■ There are positions to be filled at reserves, home-based and in the Bush Heritage Melbourne office.

■ The desktop roles at home are usually where a

volunteer works on photo monitoring.

“We end up with some people who are highly skilled working on high-level documents and policies, and then we have others who just want to get out and meet people and pull some weeds and learn something new,” Ms Axford said.

Most of the reserves are remote, as much as a two-day drive from a major centre, so Ms Axford advises volunteers must have their own transport.

“If we are not the right organisation for a person, we sometimes recommend other organisations that will better align with a person’s availability and skills,” she added.

How to apply ■ Applications are taken online during March to November each year.

■ The volunteer co-ordinator calls applicants for a phone

interview and, if possible, will then meet with the applicant.

■ Applications are normally processed within two weeks of receipt.

■ Once a person is registered with Bush Heritage, they will be advised when new volunteer roles arise.

Choosing a location ■ You can request a location.

■ Some people have a strong affiliation with a reserve and will return to it several times during the winter season.

■ For others who travel, they can ask for volunteer placement in reserves that are on their travel path.

■ For caretakers, there is a field safety system that requires volunteers to call into a central communication point each day.

How long is a volunteer assignment?

■ The length of an

assignment varies greatly.

■ A weed working bee could be just one week, while a caretaking position is normally more than two weeks.

“I have a chap that runs our sand pad monitoring, which he does four times a year,” Ms Axford said.

“It takes him a week each time.”

What do you need to bring with you?

■ Most of the reserves have accommodation options, but if not, people need to bring a caravan or camping gear.

■ The supplied accommodation has a fully-equipped kitchen and shared ablutions.

■ All reserves have internet and phone connections.

■ A volunteer must have their own transport.

For more information on Bush Heritage, visit: www.bushheritage.org.au.

Photo supplied by Bush Heritage Australia.

Who do you call...

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AGM DEEP CYCLE BATTERIES WITH 3 YEAR WARRANTY

Battery Barn stocks a great range of SSB AGM Batteries that carry a 3 year warranty and are stable enough to be fitted under the bonnet of your vehicle. Our staff can fit these in your vehicle or caravan and even check your charging system for you! Come in and see us for Great Batteries! Great Prices! Great Service!

We are only a phone call away, anytime of the day or night.

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Recharge at Maleny Tropical Retreat in our secluded mountainside paradise that overlooks lush rainforest, the burbling Obi Obi Creek, and the shimmering Lake Baroon.

Explore the winding walking tracks below, feast at fine restaurants dotted along the Blackall Range, or slip into a steamy spa in your secluded Balinese-style room. Unwind in exquisite comfort in one of our three luxurious Bed and Breakfast rooms, our secluded Tuban cabin, or our four fresh and new Abadi Villas.

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Toowoomba & Darling Downs

Monday, May 15, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 23

Travel Atlantis experiences that enthral visitorsai in Dub

ANN RICKARD checked into the sprawling high-tech hotel, Atlantis the Palm in Dubai, and found everything from fun to fine dining, to shopping, culture, exploration, even education.

1. THE LOBBY

TALK about a grand entrance. The lobby is the first glimpse of this Atlantean-themed destination, with eight imposing columns giving the impression of fish scales. Then there is the 60m wall of windows with an infinity view over blue waters of The Palm. In the centre a 9.75-metre high blown-glass sculpture surrounded by a reflection pool brings the essence of the ocean to life.

Lic No TAG 1446

2. UNDERWATER SUITES

FLOOR-to-ceiling views from the master bedroom into an aquarium create an illusion of being beneath the sea.

Sleep with the sea creatures swimming all around you.

3. THE ROYAL POOL

IT PROVIDES the best view towards the cityscape of Dubai as well as first class view of The Palm.

Refreshments are available all day around the pool and at The Edge and The Shore food outlets.

4. SHUIQI SPA & FITNESS

ENTER the expansive spa

and be greeted by a water wall, then be guided along a streaming water pathway to one of 27 treatment rooms.

The treatment menu is as extensive as it is exciting, with offerings ranging from spa journeys to body therapies, as well as full salon services for his and hers beautifying sessions.

5. AQUAVENTURE WATERPARK

YOUR inner child will thank you for taking him to these 42 acres of joyful water experiences.

Get on the river ride action with its cascades, tidal waves and rapids, then dare to take to the Tower of Poseidon reaching 40m into the sky.

(Heart-stopping, be warned.)

6. THE LOST CHAMBERS AQUARIUM

DISCOVER the mazes of underground tunnels and passageways of The Lost Chambers, bringing them into close contact with the myth and the advanced inventions of the ancient Atlanteans.

7. ULTIMATE SNORKEL IN THE AMBASSADOR LAGOON

SWIM with 65,000 marine animals, including sharks, fish and many species of rays, in this underwater exhibit.

This habitat focuses on

2017 ADVENTURES Exciting escorted Australian and international group tours

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marine life found in the local waters of the Arabian Gulf.

Watch the sea life and learn about fish species and ocean preservation.

8. DINING AT GORDON RAMSAY’S BREAD STREET KITCHEN & BAR

AN OUTPOST of his London establishment with a British European menu.

An eclectic environment from day through night, the bar at Bread Street Kitchen with its imaginative mixologists is an integral part of the space.

9. KALEIDOSCOPE, THE ULTIMATE

Tuesday 30 May 2017 - $98pp Explore Byron Bay's hidden gems, Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens

Sunday 23 July 2017 - $25pp!!!

What a deal! Explore the fantastic Eat Street Markets for only $25pp

ELTHAM VALLEY PANTRY

FANTASTIC FALLS 4X4

Thursday 22 June 2017 - $105pp Thursday 17 August - $110pp A peaceful luncheon in a quaint and Bushwalking, Waterfalls, Lookouts, beautiful pecan orchard LavenderFarms,WineTasting&more A CRACKING MYSTERY

Saturday 1 July 2017 - $85pp Where will we take you? Where will you go? Join us if you want to know CATTLE CAMP BY 4X4

Thursday 13 July 2017 - $99pp Our most popular day tour, visiting a working cattle camp by 4x4 coach

A Luxuriously colourful marketplace.

Browse some of the world’s most sought-after brands in high-end boutiques from Rodeo Drive to Tiffany & Co, and Porsche Design.

What are you waiting for? Get there. Visit: www.atlantisthepalm.com.

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CANBERRA FLORIADE

Celebrate the arrival of Spring at the annual floral spectacle; Canberra Floriade.

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Memorial, Parliament House NOOSA EVERGLADES Mon 11 September - $140pp and enjoy the Floriade and Nigh est celebra ons.

Cruise the "River of Mirrors", Australia's most pristine wetlands 24 September 2017

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SYDNEY SIGHTS & PACIFIC NIGHTS Test the waters of luxury ship cruising with a 3 day cruise from Brisbane to Sydney.

Then, take the me to tour the sights and experience everything that this fantas c city has to offer. Flying home direct to into Brisbane West Wellcamp Airport.

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Exploring the scenic Isles of Chalk and Cheese is a truly unique experience.

6 October 2017

Easy Tra vel From Au ling stralia

Battlefields Tours

By Stonestreets Travel

BATTLEFIELD TOURS

In 2018, join a Made Easy Remembrance Tour and mark the final year of the ANZAC Centenary. Follow in the footsteps of a family member, mark a date of remembrance or just learn about the Australian experience at war in the Somme, Flanders or Gallipoli. Made Easy Ba lefield Tours have been coordina ng individual and group tours to Turkey, France, Belgium, Libya, Egypt, Israel and Vietnam for over 20 years and we are now taking bookings and enquiries for 2018. www.MadeEasyTours.com.au

24 Seniors Toowoomba & Darling Downs

How to make a dream holiday a super reality Cruise Traveller

CLOSE your eyes and imagine slipping gently along, skippering your own boat on the Canal du Midi in southern France, exploring the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Pause along the way to taste the local food, savour the wines, visit medieval villages and take in the glorious scenery.

travel

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 15, 2017

QUIET BEAUTY: Gliding by the Penichette ruins in Ireland.

Now open eyes and start to plan, making your dream holiday a reality.

Australian company Cruise Traveller is offering the answer for a perfect boating holiday.

“Locaboat is suitable for all adult ages, and the leisurely pace of the whole product makes it a very relaxing experience,” managing director Craig Bowen said.

“If you have even basic

boating experience it will be easy, however even as a first-timer the operational side of the vessel is extremely simple.

“The instructions made available by the departure base are excellent, and the written information provided is comprehensive.

“I’m in my late 50s and I found the experience not only straight-forward, but

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“You’ll receive boat handling instructions and orientation on the departure day to make sure you understand essential cruising rules, which are pretty simple,”

Mr Bowen said.

In case you are concerned, technical assistance is available every day.

You can hire a Locaboat from 642 Euro per person twin share for seven days.

That price is based on a Penichette P935W in France, ideal for a couple.

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travel

Monday, May 15, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Canal du Midi, 11, Aude, in France.

seven days, based on six people.

There are multiple departure dates and bases to choose from.

“The itinerary is up to you. You’re the skipper,” Mr Bowen said.

“The Canal du Midi is a prime prospect; it’s near the heart of the Camargue, an amazing region on France’s Mediterranean coast, famous for its wildlife, white horses, black bulls and pink flamingos.

“The Canal du Midi is also close to the Etang de Thau and its fantastic oyster beds.”

Every part of the journey is exceptional such as the area around Carcassonne with its towers and battlements complete with fortified towns of white stone and historic villages like Trèbes and Puicheric.

Toowoomba & Darling Downs

Seniors 25

PHOTO: PALOMBA ROBERT

Medieval villages, Roman churches, abbeys and isolated monasteries; all of them can be visited from the self-drive canal boat.

Across France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands and Poland your self-drive boating holiday will be punctuated by beautiful landscapes and charming towns, castles, wine cellars and historical sights.

In France, options include Midi and Camargue, the Southwest, the Lot Valley, Brittany, the Ardennes and Alsace-Lorraine, Burgundy and Saône, the Loire and Nivernais.

In Germany, Müritz and Mecklenburg beckon, or Brandenburg and Berlin.

Another choice is the Netherlands where you can cruise either north or south Holland.

Cruise Italy’s Venetian Lagoon where the great renaissance maritime city of Venice crowns this enclosed bay of the Adriatic Sea in northern Italy.

Poland’s Masurian Lakes offers countless lakes dot verdant, undulating landscapes, embellished by villages, tracts of forest and thriving farms.

Green Ireland’s Shannon-Erne Waterway with its 16 automatic locks, provides a delightful latticework of rivers, canals, lakes, islands and villages where visitors should pause for at least one pint of Guinness.

For information on all the self-drive boating holidays, go to cruisetraveller.com.au or call 1800 507 777.

Floating along in Port de Plaisance.

PHOTO: ERICH SPIEGELHALTER

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travel

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 15, 2017

The luxury of slow train Ann Rickard

TRAVELLING to the US in the future? You might be put off by their domestic flight system and in light of the recent United Airlines kerfuffle, Rail Plus has reinforced the benefits of rail travel in the US. Commercial director Ingrid Kocijan says it is well-known that train travel is much less stressful than air travel, with bonus factors including the luxury of space, comfortable seats with legroom and no set baggage limits adding to the stress-free experience.

“Apart from not having to endure long queues or waiting time at check-in and baggage claim, and being able to go from city centre to city centre without additional transportation costs and journey time, travellers can also take comfort in knowing that there is absolutely no chance of seat overbooking on

trains,” Kocijan said.

“Peak travel times would usually see an increase in capacity via additional carriages on selected trains; otherwise passengers would be informed straight away of seat availability and alternatives when making their seat reservations.

“Also, the level of care and customer service provided on board the trains, at the service counter or on the phone is of a high standard.”

While best suited to travellers with the luxury of time, train travel is also an undeniably great way for visitors to see the vast and varied landscape of the USA during a relaxed journey, something that more Australian and New Zealand travellers are appreciating.

Rail Plus recorded a 36% year-on-year increase in Australian and New Zealand travellers exploring the US by rail last year.

The most popular point-to-point destinations

and journeys being booked include: ■ New York City – Washington DC – 3 hours.

■ New York City – Boston – 4 hours and 30 minutes.

■ Seattle – Vancouver – 4 hours.

■ Los Angeles – Grand Canyon – 12 hours.

■ Universal Studios: Miami – Orlando, 7 hours and 18 minutes.

■ Disneyland: Los Angeles to Anaheim – 39 minutes.

“While point-to-point tickets have proven more popular among travellers who prefer to spend more time in fewer destinations during their short visits averaging two weeks, Amtrak passes remain popular among travellers planning to hop around the country on longer visits of up to 45 days.”

Travellers deciding to see the USA by train can equip themselves with some useful tips and considerations suggested by the experts at Rail Plus to help with their itineraries and bookings.

ON TRACK: Consider taking the train when travelling in the USA.

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Toowoomba & Darling Downs

Monday, May 15, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 27

Wellbeing

Step to cancer-free living Alison Houston

CANCER survivors and their carers are invited to take part in the opening lap of Toowoomba’s 2017 Relay for Life and an afternoon tea marked by hope.

Now in its 16th year, Relay for Life – at Queens Park on May 20 and 21 – raises funds for cancer research and support services for patients and their families, with the ultimate goal of a cancer-free future.

Cancer Council Queensland’s Jillian Huth said Saturday’s opening lap and afternoon tea will recognise the courage of survivors and their carers.

Last year the relay attracted 145 teams, 1471 participants and raised $187,758.

Jillian hopes this year will be just as successful and encourages people to

DID YOU KNOW? ❚ One in two Queenslanders will be diagnosed with cancer by age 85. ❚ One person is diagnosed with cancer every 20 minutes in Queensland. ❚ About 2040 people in south-west Queensland are diagnosed with cancer each year. ❚ About 660 people in the region die from cancer each year. ❚ The five most common cancers in the region are prostate, melanoma, colorectal, breast and lung cancer.

HOPE LIVES: Join cancer survivors and carers in walking the opening lap of this year’s Relay for Life.

participate in the relay or sponsor teams.

This year’s theme is Colours of Hope to recognise, support and raise awareness of all the different cancers affecting people.

“Relay for Life really is a unique community event,”

Jillian said.

Sadly, cancer knows no age limits and the face of this year’s relay is 11-year-old Ally Chant, who was diagnosed with a stage three Wilms tumour in 2012 and after complications from the removal of her left kidney

is literally fighting back in Toowoomba through her love of Sublimate BJJ (Brazilian jiu jitsu).

Her story will be among those shared on the day, which is open to the public until 11pm Saturday and after 6am Sunday, so anyone can go along and

cheer on participants.

There is also a special candlelight ceremony at 6pm on Saturday.

While the relay is a team event, Jillian said individuals were welcome to go along.

“Cancer Council Queensland believes that no one should have to go through cancer alone,” Jillian said.

“Money raised goes towards services like our Olive McMahon Lodge, which provides free

accommodation for cancer patients and their families.”

Final registrations for the afternoon tea are on May 15, so email relayfor life@cancerqld.org.au or phone 4690 5900.

Registrations are still open for the relay itself.

Phone 1300 65 65 85, Google ‘Toowoomba Relay for Life’ or find the event on Facebook. There is a team information night at 5.30pm on May 17 at Toowoomba City Library.

You matter.

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28 Seniors Toowoomba & Darling Downs

wellbeing

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 15, 2017

Screener urges all other women to get checked out

JULIE McGregor is one of the lucky ones: she’s never had breast cancer nor have any of the women in her immediate family.

But she knows there’s always a chance her luck could change, which is why her two-yearly date with the BreastScreen

Queensland service is one she never misses.

“Just like everyone else, I have seen and read articles that suggest mammograms aren’t that effective,” she said.

“But I have experience with friends where certain issues have been found from their breast screen,

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Like many women her age Julie is busy.

The 68-year-old mother of three and grandmother of two might be retired but her days are full; catching up with family and friends, playing the piano and helping out at the University of Technology.

But she knows getting a breast screen isn’t just important for her but also her family.

“I encourage women to definitely make the time.

It’s not an arduous process, it’s really very efficient with only a few seconds of discomfort and then it’s over,” she said.

“Having a conversation about breast screening with family and friends can really help with raising concerns and can encourage others to get regular checks.

“I was telling my daughter I had booked a

breast screen and she immediately said ‘I think it’s time for me to start breast screening regularly as well’.

“It really pleased me that my breast screening has led to my daughter to recognising the importance of regular mammograms as part of her health routine.”

A new online booking system is making it even easier for Queensland women to make an appointment.

“I actually tried to book by phone initially but it was a bit busy so I went online and got straight through to make a booking so that was good.”

“My advice to women is to just do it – avoiding mammograms is not helping your life in any way.”

Women aged 50 to 74 years can book a free breast screen today by visiting www.breastscreen .qld.gov.au or they can call 13 20 50.

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Toowoomba & Darling Downs

Monday, May 15, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 29

Advertisement

YOU DO SO MUCH FOR US. PLEASE DO ONE MORE THING FOR YOURSELF.

A breast screen only takes 30 minutes and is a must every two years for women aged between 50 and 74. Finding breast cancer early provides the best chance of surviving the disease – in fact since BreastScreen Queensland began, we’ve detected over 19,000 breast cancers. With the help of early detection, the five year breast cancer survival rate has increased to 90%. We know you do so many things already, but please do just one more thing – for yourself and for those who love you greatly.

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30 Seniors Toowoomba & Darling Downs

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 15, 2017

Living

How to prepare your own retirement plan TUNED UP FOR THE THIRD AGE PAUL McKEON is a blank page and you have dozens of opportunities that could fill this space.

Now is the time when you can do some or all of the things you wanted to do, but had to postpone

due to work or family commitments.

Just relaxing and doing very little is fine for the first few months after leaving work. You probably need time to recharge the batteries. However if doing very little and just “going with the flow” becomes the norm, you’re heading towards boredom, ill health and unhappiness.

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Monday, May 15, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 31

Finance Myths are simple and all too easy to believe EVERYDAY MATTERS CAROLYN DEVRIES CEO of New Way Lawyers

ANOTHER myth that we often hear when we first meet with a client is that each person should be placed in the same financial position at the end of the relationship as they were at the start, and should therefore take out the same assets and liabilities that they brought into the relationship.

This myth is attractive because of its simplicity, however, separation, divorce and property settlement is rarely this simple.

Over the course of a relationship, particularly long relationships, the

initial assets that were brought into the relationship may be sold for a profit or loss, with the sale proceeds applied to purchase new assets.

Additionally, original debts and loans may have been paid out or paid down or alternatively increased and new debts and loans may have been incurred.

In fact, there are many things that can occur during a relationship that may result in a change in the make-up of the original assets and liabilities. While there is no rule that each person takes out the same assets and liabilities as they brought into the relationship, there is a recognised legal principle that considers the contributions that each party has made to the assets and liabilities and the relationship generally.

Risk and returns AS INVESTORS, we all want to earn high returns.

However, big gains go hand in hand with increased risk – something that’s especially important for the thousands of Australians who hold their retirement savings in a self-managed super fund (SMSF).

A recent report by AMP Capital found SMSF trustees expect their super to earn an average return of 10.9% this year.

Yet only one in five SMSFs have made changes to their portfolio to achieve this result. In fact, 55% of SMSFs have switched to lower risk investments out of concerns about market volatility.

With these findings in mind, it’s worth looking at the two main types of investments to see how

THINK MONEY PAUL CLITHEROE returns are impacted by risk.

Income assets, also known as conservative investments, include cash-based investments like term deposits, which provide income on a regular basis. The drawback is that the return on cash is typically low because there’s less risk of losing your money.

Right now for example, you’d be lucky to earn 3% on a term deposit.

That’s not to say income assets aren’t worth having. What you need to consider is how much of your money you should

invest in low risk/low return investments.

Growth assets on the other hand, include property, shares, both international and Australian, and units in a managed fund that invests in these assets.

The appeal of growth investments is that they offer ongoing income in the form of rent, dividends and distributions (in the case of managed funds) but they also offer capital growth plus some tax breaks.

As a guide to potential returns, Australian shares have delivered gains of 17.24% over the past 12 months – far eclipsing cash investments.

The downside to growth investments is increased risk. Capital gains are by no means guaranteed.

It’s very rewarding to

see the value of your growth assets climb. But you need to be able to withstand a fall in the value of your investment.

The appropriate mix of conservative and growth assets will vary from person to person.

However, for SMSFs, especially those in the accumulation stage, having a high concentration of low-risk assets could see you struggle to reach your retirement goals.

The key is to find the blend of risk and return that you’re comfortable with.

Paul Clitheroe is a founding director of financial planning firm ipac, Chairman of the Australian Government Financial Literacy Board and chief commentator for Money Magazine.

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32 Seniors Toowoomba & Darling Downs

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 15, 2017

Community TO ALLOW for readers’ requests for the publication of more neighbourhood news, please keep notices short and to the point (100 word maximum). If you would like to submit a photo, please ensure it is at least 180dpi with faces in a nice and bright setting.

The deadline for the June issue is May 31.

Email Nicky or Chris at communitynotes@ seniorsnewspaper.com.au

WARWICK ROSE CITY PROBUS CLUB

WHAT a great day it was, the old Bull’s Head Inn became “Royal” after Governor Fitzroy visited there in 1860. It has changed hands many times until being taken over by the National Trust in 1973. We then headed to the Downs Tourist Railway and Museum at Drayton and also staffed by volunteers, who are very friendly and helpful.

The lunch was wonderful from the retired world-renowned chef.

While we were still at the railway museum, Marion Jones from the the Milne Bay museum gave us a talk about Milne Bay, which was very interesting. We then travelled to the beautiful Japanese gardens, as lovely as ever. After most of the group walked off lunch, Barbara Bokenham supplied afternoon tea, then it was time to head home. One of the main things about this trip was the fun, friendship and fellowship.

GARDEN CITY NATIONAL SENIORS

JOIN us on Monday, May 15, at 9.30am at Drayton Bowls Club, cnr Ball and Gipps Sts, when we will be meeting for coffee before hearing a presentation on age pension strategies post January 1, 2017, and aged care costs given by financial adviser Gerard Ball. On May 30 we will go by bus to the Brisbane Valley town of Esk for lunch and some country-style entertainment by the Esk Bush-Bashers. A chance to enjoy and actively participate in some music, singing and dancing with this lively group. For information, phone Hazel 4635 4519.

GARDENS OF HAMPTON

ON SATURDAY, May 27, and Sunday, May 28, at 9am–5pm. Entrance fee $5 per garden, Emaho Trees, 507 Ravensbourne Dip Rd via Tessman Rd, Hampton. An acreage garden encircling an open-style home on the rise overlooking the tree farm. Blue Hills Garden, Deeth Rd, Crows Nest. On the escarpment, this 1ha garden undulates over varying levels, descending into the valley. Secca’s Valley, Palmtree Rd, Hampton. A Swiss chalet-style home sits atop a steep rise overlooking the avocado and persimmon farm below. Royal Flying Doctor Service is the beneficiary.

For directions and information to gardens, visit the website: gardensofthedowns.com.

QCWA ■ NORWIN

THE Norwin Branch CWA

TIME TO CELEBRATE: (From left) Joyce Hornick, Helen Rohde, Madeleine Ferguson, Anna Behrendorff, Carmel Conroy, Anne Ferguson and Carol McVinish from QCWA Norwin branch.

hall is situated on a crossroad in the corner of a farmer’s property on the flat plains of the Darling Downs, where distances and directions are very deceiving. It is quite easy to go astray on these roads, especially if not travelled regularly. This is what happened to a couple of carloads of invited guests, but it was fortunate they had left from Toowoomba in plenty of time – because by 10am everyone had arrived, plus with a good appetite. We were honoured to have guests from Darling Downs Division, Toowoomba, Kingsthorpe, Oakey and Springvale branches, Norwin Lutheran Church, Cecil Plains Lions Club and a local. The tables were set beautifully and laden with high tea delicacies. Around the tables everyone enjoyed sampling the goodies, catching up with each other’s news and renewing friendships. A light-hearted anecdote was also shared on what can be expected at 90 years of age. Madeleine Ferguson, the oldest and longest member of the branch, cut the birthday cake with the aid of division vice-president Shirley Platz. Norwin

Seniors News

Branch continues to meet in the hall and at various other venues on special occasions, eg Mother’s Day, Christmas, birthdays.

We celebrate each month’s birthdays with a cake made by the previous month’s in-house raffle winner. We are sister branch to Southport and are enjoying visits alternately twice a year if possible. We members definitely enjoy the fellowship of meeting each month, support QCWA to the best of our ability and plan to continue for as long as we are able.

■ KINGSTHORPE

THE Kingsthorpe branch recently celebrated its 90th birthday. Members dressed in period costume and had a wonderful morning sharing memories and friendship.

The branch has certainly stood the test of time and proudly continues to serve the dynamic town of Kingsthorpe and district.

For more information, phone Del Timms on 4630 0048 or email b.timms@bigpond.com.

NATIONAL SENIORS AUSTRALIA – WARWICK BRANCH

ON TUESDAY, May 23, our

coach trip will be going to Upper Richmond Valley, Kyogle, where we will see milking done the robotic way with a talk and tour.

Lunch will be at a bowling club. There will be time for a casual look around Kyogle before returning to Warwick. Bookings close May 17. Our coach trip on Thursday, June 15, is to Darling Downs Zoo and then on to The Barn for lunch and to Scotty’s Garage at Flagstone Creek, an automotivebased museum of the 1950s and ’60s.

Bookings open May 17.

For more information, phone Carmel on 4661 3136.

MAKE YOUR HEALTH YOUR PRIORITY

DARLING Downs Hospital and Health Service mobile women’s health nurse Kathryn Anning will visit a variety of locations to conduct free Well Women’s clinics throughout May. The service is free and confidential and is available to all women. Ms Anning also provides a range of other services, including breast awareness and sexual health testing, as well as advice for issues such as continence, menopause, contraception and general well-being. Upcoming clinics will be held at: Oakey Hospital, May 22, 9am to 3pm. Phone Oakey Health Service on 4691 4888 for inquiries.

Pittsworth, May 25, Allied Health Rooms, Beauaraba Living, Pittsworth Hospital, 9am to 3pm.

Phone Beauaraba Living on 4619 8422 for inquiries. Gatton Community Health Service, May 31, 9am to

3pm. Phone Gatton Hospital on 5468 4185 for inquiries.

DEDICATED ENDOSCOPY UNIT OPENS

THE Friendlies dedicated Endoscopy Unit has only been open for a few weeks, but the benefits of this purpose-built space are being seen by doctors and patients alike. CEO Alan Cooper said the decision to convert a space made vacant by the relocation of the Day Oncology Unit to the dedicated endoscopy unit and recovery area had been well received. The Endoscopy Unit is on the ground floor of the Friendly Society Private Hospital, with access via the main Woondooma Street entrance.

TOOWOOMBA HOSPICE ASSOCIATION INC

FOR National Palliative Care Week there will be a breakfast on Friday, May 26, from 6.45–8am for $40 per person. Book at Gips on 4638 3588 before May 23.

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK CELEBRATED

DARLING Downs Hospital and Health Service volunteers marked National Volunteer Week with a celebratory lunch.

DDHH board deputy chair Dr Dennis Campbell said the contribution of volunteers could not be overstated. Dr Campbell said the theme for National Volunteer Week 2017 ‘Give Happy, Live Happy’ was more than just a catchy title.

If you like what you’re reading, why not advertise here?

We’d love to share your stories and promote your business to readers just like you. This is the perfect opportunity to share what your business has to offer to those who are most interested. Don’t miss your chance to reach our readers!

Embracing Ageing

To find out more about advertising in Seniors Toowoomba and online, call media sales consultant Mark Sojourner on 1300 880 265 or get in touch at mark.sojourner@seniorsnewspaper.com.au

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HOW TO SUBMIT NOTICES

Toowoomba & Darling Downs

Monday, May 15, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Live and let’s save

Seniors 33

POWERED BY

Time to ‘ban the bag’ AUSTRALIAN’S use around six billion plastic bags per year, 3.3 billion of which are supermarket plastic bags. Managing director of Clean Up Australia, Terrie-Ann Johnson said 80 million plastic bags end up in Australia’s litter stream.

“Think about the poor animal in the marine environment that chokes or starves because it’s got a gutful of non-nutritious material, it’s a horrible, horrible death” she said.

The biggest problem with plastic bags is that they do not readily break down in the environment, with estimates for the time it takes them to decompose ranging from 20 to 1000 years.

Currently, ACT, NT, Tasmania and SA have bans in place and Queensland will join them

BE THRIFTY AND THRIVE NICKY NORMAN from July 2018. NSW, Victoria and WA are currently not committed to the ban. Single-use plastic bags have been used in Australia for 40 years, so it’s time to ban the bag or in the meantime, use an alternative.

■ What can we do: ★Try and take the plastic bags or paper bags you have, back to the supermarket to reuse. ★Not all your fruit and vegetables need a plastic bag, they can go straight into the trolley. ★Some retailers save cardboard boxes, so use these to pack your

BAN THE BAG: Plastic bags can cause considerable harm, blocking drains and suffocating wildlife, who mistake the bag for food.

groceries. ★Some major supermarkets have calico or “green” bags available for sale at a very small price. These bags can be kept in the car and used every time you shop. ★Bio-degradable bags.

These bags are usually

made from plastic and break down into small pieces. Those small pieces become microplastics. The best alternative is bags made with oxo-biodegradable plastic.

Using plastic shopping bags to line our garbage bins means that they still end up into landfill.

■ What do we use: ★Newspaper: Most bins are tall and cube shape, so a newspaper can easily be folded, origami style, into the bin to line the bottom and the sides. ★Nothing: the only things that should be going into your bins is waste that cannot be recycled, composted, or reused somewhere else. These methods may not suit everyone but so long as you can reduce the use, you are helping our environment.

Visit www.amalpest.com.au V l est com au or call 13 19 61

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Top tips for an efficient kitchen Linking seniors with community information across Queensland

CHEAP EATS, NO TRUFFLES CHRISTINE PERKINS store like mixed herbs, thyme, sage, rosemary, dried chilli, cumin, ground coriander seed or curry powder you can enhance the flavour of a basic meal and make it special with little effort.

Don’t forget to taste and season.

It’s good to look in the cupboard and get ideas from what you already have instead of buying more ingredients.

Writing a list of what is

9am to 5pm Monday to Friday www.seniorsenquiryline.com.au

TIME TO WARM UP: Enjoy a curry laksa, full of flavour.

in your cupboard is a great way to save money.

We tend to forget and go and buy the same items then get home and find there are already three bags of carrots.

When that happens, you

can always make carrot soup. Seriously, if you have a list of what’s in your cupboard and pantry you will be less likely to double up.

Think before you shop and be creative.

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AUTUMN is well and truly here so we start thinking of warm, comfort foods.

Soup comes to mind as well as casseroles.

One-pot meals save a great deal of time and effort.

Don’t forget the slow cooker as it is always a great way to cook and save time, just put it on and forget.

Be creative – add and remove ingredients if they are not to your liking. If you like mushrooms and don’t like eggplant swap them as both are high in moisture – the recipe should stay the same.

Herbs and spices are a great way to jazz up a one-pot meal.

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34 Seniors Toowoomba & Darling Downs

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 15, 2017

Euthanasia debate gains momentum

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Tracey Johnstone

THE debate about legalising euthanasia in Australia continues to boil as state governments consider and consult with various parties, trying to find a way forward through difficult emotional arguments and legal boundaries.

While on one side of the debate is the antieuthanasia advocates and on the other end, the pro-euthanasia ones, sitting in the middle are people waiting for legislated decisions that may come just in time for them to have a legally acceptable assisted death. Then again, they may not.

The euthanasia debate is unavoidably emotionally charged. It goes to the core of a person’s belief and challenges them to choose between life and death.

For one man – he wants to be called Marcus Welby – he wants assistance to end his life, and Marcus wants it now.

The 65-year-old has emphysema and sleep apnoea.

“Life is getting pretty miserable now, especially at night. I keep waking up suffocating,” Marcus said.

His specialist told him in late April that, barring infection, Marcus has about two years to live.

“I don’t think that’s achievable as it only takes one infection,” he said.

While euthanasia remains illegal, Marcus thinks he has only one option.

“At the end of the day, people like me are forced to go and buy three or four boxes of strong painkillers and do it that way, which is the prospect I have,” Marcus said.

He is a firm believer in euthanasia and physicianassisted suicide being legalised.

“I don’t want someone making a decision for me.

I want to make my own decisions.

“I think I should be able to consult with somebody that knows what they are doing before I do anything.

“But, if it’s against the law, I am going to do it myself anyway.”

Paul Russell, the founder and director of HOPE Preventing Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide, supports the

EUTHANASIA: Is there middle ground in this ongoing debate?

point Marcus is making that people should make their own decisions.

Mr Russell wants people to realise that they can consult with a broad range of professionals to seek advice that will assist them to make decisions about dying.

“I think there is a lot of room still to be developed within the medical fraternity and within our medical systems that enable people to feel that they have a sense of control over where their prognosis is going and what their options are,” Mr Russell said.

“I don’t think the general public have enough knowledge of it and I don’t think we provide, in terms of medical support, enough counselling and support and real options for people so that they can actually have that sense of control without the necessity of doing down the euthanasia and assisted-suicide path.”

Exit International’s legal director Tasha Russell also argues that the debate is about choice, but for Exit it is about whether you choose to access euthanasia, or not.

Its philosophy is rational suicide which Ms Russell said was a civil rights model where someone decided them self when they were ready to die and she pointed out Exit International’s founder Philip Nitschke’s Facebook post of April 19, on the back of the ABC’s

Q&A program of April 10, where he stated: “Exit believes that all people over the age of 65 should be given access to reliable euthanasia drugs like Nembutal, and that possession of this drug by the elderly should not be a crime”.

Ms Russell said that when people knew they had choices and when their life was in their control, “…it actually makes them feel better.

“They feel like they are in control. They know they have the right to do what they want to do, when they want to do it and makes them feel better about their situation.”

Her organisation, going forward, believes that a person having access to the “peaceful pill” or Nembutal, should be part of the future choices of older Australians.

“Yes, that is precisely what we advocate for,” Ms Russell said.

Dr Ezekiel Emanuel, chair of the Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy at the University of Pennsylvania, writing for the Medical Journal of Australia in April this year, puts forward that legal decisions on euthanasia should be based on scientific evidence and a person’s choices made within the medical realm.

“We should end the focus on the media frenzy about euthanasia and PAS as if it were the panacea to improving end-of-life care,” he wrote.

“Instead, we need to focus on improving the care of most of the patients who are dying and need optimal symptom management at home.”

There are several other organisations involved in the euthanasia debate with their own particular advice on people’s choices.

Still on the debate sideline is Marcus, hoping that if euthanasia is legalised soon he would consider it a reasonable option.

“That would be the only way I would go. There is a point where life is worth living and there is a point where it’s not,” he said.

“I’m not scared of dying.

“I accept that I have had a good life and I have no one to blame for this, but myself.”

puzzles

Monday, May 15, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

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

1

2

3

4

5

Across 7 Who played the drums on the Beatles’ 1968 recording of “Back in the USSR”? (4,9) 8 Referring to a payment, what phrase from Latin means “for a moral, not legal reason”? (2,6) 9 What (__ lily) is another name for the calla lily? (4) 10 In Harry Dacre’s 1892 song “Daisy Bell”, what mode of transport is suggested for the wedding? (6) 12 An aircraft’s “black box” is usually what colour?

(6) 14 Where in England was Ricky Gervais’s TV hit The Office set? (6) 16 Which American short-story writer honed his skills while serving a prison sentence from 1898?

(1,5) 18 In a children’s rhyme, who came tumbling after Jack? (4) 20 Which tropical plant with large, velvety, bellshaped flowers is related to the African violet? (8) 22 Which British novelist and feminist essayist was a central figure of the Bloomsbury Group? (8,5)

6

7

8

9

10

11

14

18

15

19

12

16

20

Toowoomba & Darling Downs

13

17

21

Down 1 Which British car maker was acquired by General Motors in 1925? (8) 2 Which king of Wessex is credited with the foundation of the English navy? (6) 3 What is improvised jazz singing, using the voice in imitation of an instrument? (4) 4 Which Japanese admiral planned the attack on Pearl Harbour? (8) 5 What is the capital of Canada? (6) 6 Where was the potato first cultivated, about 4,500 years ago? (4) 11 The importation of what wood in the 1720s led to a revival of carving on English furniture? (8) 13 Which fat ginger comic strip cat made his debut in 1978? (8) 15 What describes the volume by which a liquid container falls short of being full? (6) 17 Which great American inventor (Thomas __) did not learn to talk until he was almost four? (6) 19 In Egyptian mythology, who is the goddess of fertility and motherhood? (4) 21 Which colourful gemstone is mined in Australia?

(4)

22

SUDOKU

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

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

13

ALPHAGRAMS

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

Solve the anagrams. Each solution is a one-word anagram of the letters beside it, and the five solutions are sequential.

For example, if the fiveletter solution starts with J, the six-letter solution starts with K, and so on.

C

11

14

15

16

A

18

19

V R K L

20

E D

N

17

6/5

5x5

M 12

Seniors 35

D D

Note: more than one solution may be possible.

TACIT MAD BEE UPSCALE ICED CLAY NEAR LIGHT

SOLUTIONS

E V O K E

A I D E D

N E E D S

Across: 1. Warp 8. Appraising 9. Flatters 10. Cage 12. Deputy 14. Shiver 15. Fasted 17. Assume 18. Dear 19. Lacerate 21. Throughout 22. Awry.

Down: 2. Adulterate 3. Pant 4. Speedy 5. Pauses 6. Psychics 7. Ogle 11.

Grey matter 13. Ulterior 16. Deluge 17. Anchor 18. Data 20. Rota.

QUICK CROSSWORD

ALPHAGRAMS: ATTIC, BEAMED, CAPSULE, DELICACY, EARTHLING.

SAVINGS - SPENDINGS PLANNING This June, Seniors Newspaper, updates, enlightens and inspires your money senses.

You will find tips on how to save in the home, on holiday, entertainment and health.

We also feature practical information on the big changes to Aged Care packages and Superannuation.

Be prepared to pull on your purse strings and climb up the money ladder as you read our informative June edition.

Pick up your free copy of the June edition at your local stockist or read online at seniorsnews.com.au

6513898ae

A N

C O R A L

437

R E

How many words of four letters or more can you make? Each letter must be used only once and all words must contain the centre letter. There is at least one nine-letter word.

No words starting with a capital are allowed, no plurals ending in s unless the word is also a verb.

TODAY: Good 20 Very Good 27 Excellent 35

SUDOKU

5x5

O M E N S

W

WORD GO ROUND

GK CROSSWORD

A T

I R

Down 2. Dilute (10) 3. Gasp (4) 4. Quick (6) 5. Hesitates (6) 6. Mediums (8) 7. Look lecherously (4) 11. Brain power (colloq) (4,6) 13. Hidden, not apparent (8) 16. Downpour (6) 17. Hold in place (6) 18. Information (4) 20. Duty list (4)

Across: 7 Paul McCartney, 8 Ex gratia, 9 Arum, 10 Tandem, 12 Orange, 14 Slough, 16 O Henry, 18 Jill, 20 Gloxinia, 22 Virginia Woolf.

Down: 1 Vauxhall, 2 Alfred, 3 Scat, 4 Yamamoto, 5 Ottawa, 6 Peru, 11 Mahogany, 13 Garfield, 15 Ullage, 17 Edison, 19 Isis, 21 Opal.

Across 1. Bend (4) 8. Valuing (10) 9. Praises insincerely (8) 10. Confine (4) 12. Assistant (6) 14. Tremble (6) 15. Went without food (6) 17. Suppose (6) 18. Costly (4) 19. Cut deeply (8) 21. From start to finish (10) 22. Amiss (4)

WORD GO ROUND

22

anew await aware interwar newt RAINWATER rainwear tawa tawnier tinware twin twine twiner wain wait waiter wane want wanter ware warier warn warner warrant warren wart water wean wear weir went weta wine winter wire wirer wren wrier writ write writer

21

36 Seniors Toowoomba & Darling Downs

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, May 15, 2017

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