Wide Bay, February 2017 by seniors

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2 Seniors Wide Bay

IN THIS EDITION Feature: David Williamson......................................page 4 What’s On................................................................page 10 Travel ............................................................... pages 11-14 Wellbeing ............................................................... page 15 Live and Let’s Save ....................................... pages 20-21 Puzzles ....................................................................page 23

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 “Wide Bay 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 Regional Media (ABN 73 064 061 794). Printed by News Regional Media, 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 endoresement by the owner/publisher.

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, February 20, 2017

Happiness equals sharing and caring WELCOME to our February edition. Because of my job, not a day passes when I do not read about a certain, factor that contributes to longevity. If you have an appetite for daily news, then you might have picked up on some too; for instance one centenarian shared her secret of throwing down a daily dose of bacon, another Scotch, another chocolate. I won’t keep going because there is a commonality amongst these factors – that is, they’re just the things health experts tell us to

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK GAIL FORRER

Group editor Seniors Newspapers network

give up, or at least devour in moderation. All I can think, is that these long-living humans consider daily consumption a moderate intake. Despite the deluge of information, I am really not sure what works. However, I am sure of what leads a lot people to happiness, no matter

what the age. This month our front page features David and Kristin Williamson. This year they celebrate 45 years of marriage, an ever-extending line-up of grandchildren and artistic pursuits. Yes, here is a couple of very happy people who consistently volunteer much of their time and expertise to Australia’s creative community and their own close-knit family. Certainly, David and Kristin have the happiness factor and they are far from alone. In this edition we profile a

number of locals who have caught the happiness bug, through their volunteer work in museums, hospitals and other worthy foundations. In common with all these people is their desire to reach out beyond their home and support others, in the process they reap the reward of new friendships, knowledge and the feeling of contributing to the wider community. It’s such a pleasure to give time and space in this publication to local volunteers. Here’s to sharing and caring.

Seniors expo looking for new members THE committee for the Fraser Coast Seniors Expo is looking for new members to help plan its 2017 event. Now in its 14th year, the expo is a popular and wellestablished event which promotes local products and services for people aged 50 years and over.

The organising committee meets once a month to plan and prepare for the expo, which will be held this year on Friday, August 4. A ‘country’ theme has been chosen for the event to raise awareness of the struggles that farmers face, particularly in times

of drought. If you would like to lend your ideas and be involved in organising the Seniors expo, please phone Julie on 4194 2441. LOTS TO SEE: The 12th annual Seniors expo attracted more than 90 exhibitors. PHOTO: BRENDAN BUFI

The fifth generation starts at Granville school FIVE generations attending the one school is not something you see every day. Firmly established in Granville, the Vaughan family generations span from 1895–2017. This year, little preppy Tayla Ann Young will be the fifth generation to attend Granville State School. Tayla’s grandmother said it was her grandfather who started the ball rolling. "My grandfather, which is Taylor’s great-greatgrandfather, started the ball rolling and enrolled in 1895," Karen Landry said. Edgar James Vaughan was born in 1890. "He had the first six years at school, then his father passed away when he was 11 so he left school and went to work," Karen said. "He was the oldest boy in the family and went to work at Steindl’s Brewery, which is where the Granville hockey fields are now. "His siblings all went to Maryborough East State School, which is now Granville State School."

TADITION: Karen Ann Laundry, nee Laban, and her siblings were third generation students at Granville State School. Karen, pictured on the right holding the slate, attended the school from 1960–66.

Fourth generation Granville State School student Kate Anna Young, nee Harvey, attended the school from 1991–97. Kay Francis who is still a teacher at the school taught Kate and her brother Brock. Kate is pictured far right front row.

In 1874, the residents of Granville decided they needed a school, so the had a meeting and, the following year, the school opened as Maryborough East. Still named Maryborough East, Karen’s mother Clarice Lillian Laban ( nee Vaughan) attended the school from 1932–1938. Clarice was born in Maryborough and grew up in Granville. Clarice’s grandparents came over on the boat from Kent, in England, and Karen believes Edgar was born in Granville. "I have lived here all

"Our principal was Neville Searle and, even went I went to school, there was still the original building and the principal’s house. "When I was still at the school they started building the second building – B block they call it now. "We just had the original seven rooms upstairs with the headmaster’s room and office and then downstairs where the school nurse used to come. "Mum has 12 grandchildren and seven went to the school."

my life and still live across the road from the family homestead," Clarice said. Back when Clarice attended the school there was only one building. "My very word, the school has grown," she said. "Mum was a tennis star and then went to school in 1932 and all her siblings went there," Karen said. "All my siblings went there from – my eldest sister started in 1958 and I started in 1960 – so all us five children went.

Karen said she also grew up in Granville and lived there all her life. "We have always been very family orientated," Karen said. "Mum always lived close to her family and there was land close by and we all got married and bought land and built our homes there so our kids then went to the Granville school. "The family home is still there across the road from where Mum and Dad built their home – it is still standing and people living in it. "I remember my grandfather talked about the Aboriginal humpies

and how they lived at the back of their house. "It is really wonderful when you look back." Tayla is the first of the fifth generation to attend the school. And Tayla’s dad, Shane, also lived in Granville and he and his brother also went to the school. Karen said it was a wonderful school – always had been. "Leon, the current school principal, his father, Jack McKay was my Grade 7 teacher and Kay Francis, who is still at the school, taught Kate (Tayla’s mum) and her brother, Brock. "Kate and Shane live out at the Meadows but Tayla is still attending the school." Kate said Tayla loved the school. "The school is very community minded," Kate said. "Our family has met a lot of great people at fundraisers and got on committees." All the Labans then went to Maryborough State High School. "It’s pretty amazing and very special," Karen said.

Wide Bay

Monday, February 20, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 3

Good Times... all day, every day!

WINNING SPOT: Tiaro Tourist Stopover provides self-contained cabin accommodation.

Locals win top award Boni Holmes

BARS GAMING / BINGO

boni.holmes@herald.com.au

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Tiaro Tourist Stopover owners Narelle and David Lightbody are thrilled with the award they received from Star Ratings that put them as one of the best accommodation providers in the country. PHOTO: BONI HOLMES

to people. “We put a lot of effort into cleaning, virtually you could do the white glove test. “And you get value for money.” The Tiaro Tourist Stopover offers self-contained cabin accommodation. They also offer late-night travellers a text service. “We do that little extra bit – everyone gets the same treatment,” Mr Lightbody said. “We have repeat contractors and that’s because we spoil them, they reckon it’s better than home. “We also take the time to talk to our visitors, including our two dogs –

they are part of the pantomime, us.” Mr Lightbody said they lived in a good community and their business supported it. “We trust people and people like that,” he said. “The award is pretty good for a couple of old mugs who didn’t know anything about tourism.” The Tiaro Tourist Stopover is located at 3 Bridge St (Mungar Rd), Tiaro. For more information phone 4193 9375, visit Facebook or www.tiaro touriststopover.com.au.

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TIARO Tourist Stopover’s cleanliness and friendliness has shot them to stardom, awarding them as one of the best accommodation providers in the country. Owners David and Narelle Lightbody received the 2017 Gold List Self-Catering Category, Number Two Best Overall Guest Experience – Fraser Coast and Number Nine Queensland’s Best Overall Guest Experience on Star Ratings Australia’s Gold List of Australian Accommodation. The Gold List of Australian Accommodation compiles reviews of Star Ratings properties from hundreds of websites, including Expedia, Facebook, Booking.com and Google, to find the best accommodation as rated by travellers. “We didn’t even know we were in the running so we were very surprised to receive the award,” Mr Lightbody said. “We have been a member of Star Ratings for many years and receive regular reports. “The award is not just great for us but great for the region.” Mr Lightbody said the award didn’t come easy. The couple, who have been married for 37 years, have lived in Tiaro for 13 years and built the stopover 12 years ago. “A lot of work is put into managing this business,” he said. “We provide good, clean, safe accommodation

RESTAURANT / CAFE

4 Seniors Wide Bay

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, February 20, 2017

When David sang ‘My Funny Valentine’ Forty-five years of marriage and a new play coming right up Jim Fagan

DAVID Williamson is 75 this month. He’s at the age when he could be putting his feet up at his ocean front home at Sunshine Beach and enjoying the fruits of a career spanning nearly 50 years as Australia’s lauded, and leading, international playwright. He certainly has enough grandchildren to play with. He and his author/ journalist wife Kristin have just come home from California where they welcomed their 12th into the world. But no, David is busier than he has ever been. He is currently adapting Rupert, his 2013 play about Rupert Murdoch, for US cable television. It is a six part miniseries and he has finished part one. He also has a Hollywood movie in development but he wants to keep it under wraps for now. His new play Odd Man Out opened in Sydney last month and Noosa Long Weekend festival director, Ian Mackellar, is bringing it to Noosa in March as a publicity and fundraising precursor to the festival. Tickets are now sale at The J. “I’ve had a very lucky life,” he told Seniors when we called to wish him a happy 75th which is on February 24. “I’m one of those rare playwrights who gets just about every play he writes produced. I get such a kick out of constructing something, seeing it come

to life with good actors and then the big buzz of watching the audience react.” And even after household name productions like Don’s Party, The Club, The Removalists, Travelling North and 25 screenplays for hugely successful movies like Phar Lap and Gallipoli and Emerald City the need for the “buzz” is clearly still there.

❝

Kristin would feel very bereft if I didn’t find some good red roses on Valentine’s Day. David went to high school in Bairnsdale Victoria and attributes his career path to a teacher, Alan McLeod. “He brought Shakespeare to life for me. The basic human emotions of love, hate, revenge, ambition, all of these things are timeless,” he said. “He steered me to being a playwright by making drama seem interesting, relevant and a real exploration of human nature which it is. “I started by writing some university material in the 60s and, oh my goodness, there you go, I’m still going.” Twelve years ago he developed a heart rhythm problem called atrial fibrillation and atrial

ALL FOR ONE AND ONE FOR ALL: David and Kristin Williamson in Los Angeles in December celebrating the birth of their 12th grandchild with family and friends, and above, David and Kristin with grandchildren in Sydney last Christmas. PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

flutter. “I had them both and they seemed to alternate. It was stress related. I was working too hard and I went from being a four

cylinder car to a three cylinder car,” he said. “I went on effective medication and I was able to live with it. The fibrillation still reappears

from time to time but I have a new lease of life now. The work hasn’t ceased and, fortunately, audiences are still coming

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in numbers.” David described how he and Kristin met during rehearsals for The Removalist at La Mama Theatre in Melbourne. “I was looking for a replacement lead actor and suddenly this gorgeous woman turned up. The problem was we were both married to other people at the time. “We’ve been together 45 years and I’ve just dropped her off in Hastings St to have lunch and go shopping with two of the grandkids. Something must have been right about it.” David believes romance is “important in your life. “Kristin would feel very bereft if I didn’t find some good red roses on Valentine’s Day. It’s been a bit of a scramble sometimes but I’ve always managed it. It’s part of our calendar and I try and take her out for a nice dinner.” The interview ended just as Kristin arrived home. I mentioned Valentine’s Day and she recalled how she and David were in a Chinese restaurant in Umina on the NSW coast. “There was an electric organ and David started playing and singing My Funny Valentine. “Our teenage children were mortified but the restaurant people applauded. Our friend, actor John Bell, who was with us, was astonished. “He hadn’t seen the exhibitionist side of the quiet playwright before that night.”

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Wide Bay

Monday, February 20, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 5

History fascinates volunteer Community involvement leads to happiness boni.holmes@herald.com.au

A MARYBOROUGH volunteer found her passion for the city’s past after realising how much history the region had to share. Ailsa Head volunteers at a number of organisations in the Heritage City. “I have been volunteering at the 18 years at Brennan and Geraghty's Store Museum, 19 years at the Bond Store Museum and have been at the Maryborough Information Centre for 12 or 13 years,” she said. “I also do the Heritage Walk where I dress up – for 10 years or more – every Tuesday or fill in when others can’t do it. “I do a lot of research on the port, the shipping, at the moment I am collecting names on the passengers of the coastal ships that did the Sydney Brisbane Maryborough run. “I research anything about Maryborough itself – and have been doing that for 17 years. “When I started to volunteer at the Bond Store I didn’t realise up to them what history we had here – we got so much history here – it got to me – I just went on from there and it became a passion.”

Ailsa and her husband John have been members of Lions for 10 years – John is also an active member of the community including secretary of Probus and Justice of the Peace. Ailsa said volunteering was not for everybody. “It just got me in – I love the history, I love the background that we have here,” she said. The 80-year-old’s ancestors came out in 1863 to Maryborough trying to grow cotton until they eventually went to timber and sugar and some settled at Munna Creek where she was born and bred. Ailsa has plenty of stories which she has uncovered during her time volunteering. “I love the research – I could do that all day,” she said. “They way they wrote things in newspapers those days make for good reading – everything was recorded in detail – if they did that today they would be liable in slander everywhere but they got away with it. “The police were strict in those days and some of the court cases. “But kids didn’t miss out either if they did something wrong – they didn’t get taken to court but they would be

taken before the magistrate. “There was one instance of a little boy not sure what he did wrong – but he did something wrong and the usual punishment they would be put in the care of their parents for suitable punishment to be administered – the judge said to the parents take him home and give him a jolly good flogging – just imagine if the judges said that today.” Her advice to anyone wanting to volunteer is enjoy it. “You just sort of want to be able to interact with people, know your subject – what you are there for and just thoroughly enjoy it. “Visitors coming to town – it’s a great thing to be able to tell visitors what we have got here, what they can see and do. “Especially working at the information centre, you can met people from all over the world.” “If you do enjoy something, it’s not a chore.”

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6 Seniors Wide Bay

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, February 20, 2017

Taking pride in “our Glad”

GLADYS MONCRIEFF: Leoni Egan with the display cabinet at the Botanical Gardens, Bundaberg Historical Museum; Bundaberg opera singer Gladys Moncrieff, after whom the Moncrieff Theatre was named, performing in the 1930s (courtesy of the National Library of Australia); and Gladys Moncrieff with flowers. MAIN PHOTO: PAUL DONALDSON

This year is the 125th celebration of the Queen of Song’s birthday Boni Holmes

boni.holmes@herald.com.au

BUNDEBERG’S Our Glad, also known as Australia’s Queen of Song, will make a comeback according to her biggest fan. Leonie Egan loves the voice of Gladys Moncrieff who was born just outside of Bundaberg in April 1892, and has been looking for memorabilia and information since she moved there five years ago. Gladys had a powerful, wide-ranging, rich soprano voice and toured Australia, New Zealand and found success overseas throughout her 60-year career. A young Gladys was never shy of performing in front of people after staging many concerts on the back verandah of her childhood home with her three siblings who played musical instruments and parents who sang. It has been said her father would pay her a schilling if she could get an encore. With that as a stepping stone, the six-year-old singer made her debut at the Queens Arcade Theatre building, where a plaque has been erected. These and more stories are the reason for

Leonie’s passion and desire to have a museum dedicated to Gladys. Leonie was also a singer and found Gladys’ songs suited her voice and performed them at concerts with her late husband in Sydney. When she moved to Bundaberg she went looking for the elusive Gladys only to find scant remnants. Leonie has since founded the Our Glad Association which recently became an incorporated registered body. “I want the people in Bundaberg to accept that she is their heritage,” Leonie said. “This year is the 125th celebration of her birthday in April 1892. “The whole year we will be doing certain things to celebrate her birthday.” Until February 13 a showcase of Gladys Moncrieff memorabilia will be on display at the Historical Museum in the Botanic Gardens Complex, 6 Mount Perry Rd, Bundaberg North from 10am–4pm. “Everything in the showcase are originals and it took a lot of time to organise,” Leonie said. “There is sheet music, books, CDs, birth,

marriage and death certificates, and programs.” Cost to the museum is adults $5.50, concession $4.50 and children $2.50. Leonie said they didn’t have a centre yet for Gladys in Bundaberg. “The Moncrieff Theatre has been wonderful – it was actually called The Gladys Moncrieff Entertainment Centre,” she said. “The theatre are offering to put a permanent showcase in their for us – with luck it will be in this year for the celebrations of her birthday. “The National Film and Sound Archives have got so much material on film and I would like to get that all put together so we have got a running movie of her life. “June 19 will be a concert at the Moncrieff Theatre with a 30-minute film on her life, and of course her voice is well recorded, so we can put something together.” Our Glad Association was not only desperate for new members but were asking people if they had any memorabilia of Gladys stored away or even on display.

“It was interesting the things that people got out of boxes – they sent me scrapbooks, stamps and things like that – it was quite amazing,” Leonie said. “Anything relevant like a concert or program that she was involved in – have it sent to me – I would love it – especially originals.” The association has a couple of collections on hold with one in Sydney having one of her dresses which will go on show at the Moncrieff Theatre. Leonie said they had applied for grants and were hoping for people to sponsor or donate. “We have had a couple of people donate – not enough yet to put the collections together but we are working towards it very hard. “The Victorian Performing Arts have a dress, the Power House Museum in Sydney have a dress – I want to get all these things, but it will take time and of course money. “I would be very happy for a sponsor or donor.” Leonie said a lot of memorabilia was given to Victorian Performing Arts by Elsie Wilson. “Gladys’ companion of 40 years Elsie Wilson was

not only a close friend but was in fact what you would call today an executive assistant, making all the business arrangements for Gladys – all Gladys had to do was get dressed and sing. “She and Gladys had a platonic relationship. “I heard word going around that it wasn’t and I have contacted with Elsie’s relatives, who are still alive and living in Sydney, and they have written to me very strongly that anything other than that is scurrilous bit of history and it’s not true. “Elsie left everything she had about Gladys to

To help, sponsor, donate or for more information, phone Leonie Egan on 0450 521 512 or email ourgladmoncrieff@gmail.com.

the Victorian Performing Arts, which I have yet to get down there and see.” Leonie’s journey has not been easy. “I’ve been searching eBay all last year and I have collected a lot of stuff for her, but I haven’t yet got a room to put it in, “I want tourists to be able to walk in and see our Glad, just like you do with Bert Hinkler. “I am bringing her back to mind – why she was so popular was because her voice was strong, was well trained and she had a 60-year career. “To listen to her – she caught your heart.”

Wide Bay

Monday, February 20, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 7

Doing what she loves Val Russell-Wilson surprised at award for her volunteer work Boni Holmes

boni.holmes@herald.com.au

“I FEEL a bit selfish because I only do what I love,” winner of the Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service Australia Day Award, Val Russell-Wilson, said. The award was for Val’s dedication and compassion as a Cancer Care volunteer for the past 26 years. “I don’t like awards, I think a lot of people deserve them,” she said. She was first “thrown in the deep end” when a nurse contacted her to fill in for the only two elderly cancer care volunteers who were away sick. “It was those volunteers who helped me through my own battle,” Val said. A breast cancer survivor herself, Val was diagnosed in 1988 and endured chemotherapy and radiation wondering if she would make it through. “I had five children and my youngest was three at the time – it was hard but somehow we got through it all. “I am now here to help others, I know they can get through the hard times.” Val said her first few times offering support were random calls to help. “I eventually did the training through The Cancer Council. “Back then we would see patients at the hospital then later in their home.

“These days everything needs to be over the phone – I found it hard to talk to people that way and I have since given that away. “But I am still doing everything else with the council.” Val volunteers three days a week – the oncology unit at Hervey Bay on Tuesdays, Palliative Care ward in Maryborough on Wednesday and Supportive Therapies in Maryborough on Fridays. “I volunteer at the oncology unit in the Bay supporting the patients and serve cups of tea,” she said. “I find people find it easy to talk to me and nurses tell me of patients who ask for me when I am not there. “I have built many friendships, have a joke and keep them smiling. “I just love helping, even if its just five minutes to put a bit of light in their day at chemo – because chemo is not the nicest thing to have.” The 73 year old, who offers an ear and a shoulder, also volunteered with Fraser Coast

CARE GIVER: Val Russell-Wilson, volunteering at the oncology unit with client Alice Smith; and receiving her award from Barbara Hovard, Deputy Chair of Wide Bay Hospital & Health Service Board. MAIN PHOTO: ALISTAIR BRIGHTMAN

Palliative Care in the late ’80s and early ’90s. “I worked with pal care when it first started with Alan Holmes. “I did pal care in the home and they trained me

for 12 weeks – I loved that too. “I could do that during the day while my kids were at school. “I would help out especially while clients’ loved ones would go get groceries, have a break or even just to sleep.” Val said during her breast cancer treatments

and receiving the support, she always thought this would be a great thing to do. “I appreciated what these ladies did and it was always in the back of my mind I said I wouldn’t mind doing this when the kids grow up – helping people and knowing such a help it was.”

Val is a mentor for new helpers and said you can never have too many volunteers. Volunteers are always needed. For more information phone Cancer Council Qld on 131 120, email volunteer@cancerqld. org.au or visit cancerqld.org.au.

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8 Seniors Wide Bay

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, February 20, 2017

Vale - Ena Featherstone Boni Holmes

boni.holmes@herald.com.au

MEMORIES flowed, laughter was loud and those walking out of Ena Featherstone’s funeral were heard to be saying it was the best one they had been to. Ena Eleanor Miller was born in Warwick on February 6, 1909 to parents Herbert and Beatrice Miller. She was an older sister to brothers Eric and Douglas.

She became a tailoress and eventually worked from home with her mother helping by doing the intricate beading and hand-sewing of clothes worn in that era. Ena met Joe Featherstone at a dance. They were both 27 and they married on August 27, 1938. Because Joe’s employment in the railway required transfers, they started their married life in Gladstone where Melody was born. They were then shifted to Cairns where during the next few years Kay, Carole and Joy were born. Their final shift was to Maryborough in 1958. After less than 25 years together, Joe sadly passed away in 1962 and

Ena remained a widow for the rest of her long life. Carole remembers growing up with her parents. “We were well looked after, with mum being the typical stay-at-home mum as was the norm in those days, and dad heading off to work in his job as a signalman in the railway,” she said. “Because mum was such a good dressmaker, she was always sewing or knitting and even made dad’s shirts.” Ena Eleanor Featherstone died in January. She has four daughters, nine grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

GREAT LIFE: Ena Featherstone when she celebrated her 106th birthday with family and friends at Petrie Gardens Aged Care, Tiaro; and Ena (on the right) with her daughter Melody and son-in-law Errol Williams at the Rockhampton Show in 1964. Ena made the dresses. PHOTO: VALERIE HORTON

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Wide Bay

Monday, February 20, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 9

Talk ‘n’ thoughts Hurdles, highjumps and solutions

From little things big things grow FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK GAIL FORRER

Group editor Seniors Newspapers network

to afford any sort of life was to sell my house and rent.” However, a look at the price of rentals and the realisation that her pension wouldn’t even cover a one-bedroom apartment, meant she had to consider alternative housing styles. “I remembered the share houses from my youth and decided to check Gumtree. I found most were seeking

❝

success, she has developed a similar Sunshine Coast group. In a little over a week Seniors Share Houses Sunshine Coast had grown to 60 members and has several adverts for people seeking and places to share. You can search for and join Seniors Share Houses Gold Coast, Seniors Share Houses Sunshine Coast and Seniors Connect on Facebook. ■ Anglicare North Coast Anglicare CEO Estelle Graham said the North Coast area reached from Port Macquarie to the Queensland border and while on the surface this area represented a sunny

GR8CLEAN is a (not for profit) specialist cleaning service for Ballina, Alstonville, Lismore and Byron Bay residents. younger people. “Luckily, I did eventually find a flatmate of similar age and interests and we became close friends.” Linda’s career background was in community development and with that knowledge she took a further step and created a specific space just for seniors to advertise when seeking or offering share accommodation. “You may wonder ‘why Facebook?’, because it might not be considered senior-friendly,” she said. “However, it is free to use, has the capacity to reach many people, and libraries and community groups are now offering courses in the use of social media.” Linda’s Facebook site Seniors Share Houses Gold Coast has been running for about 18 months and she told me it had helped many find their perfect flatmate (and friend). “There are currently 550 members and growing,” she said. This month, due to its

holiday destination, there was a problem with affordable housing. Ms Graham said high rental costs were exacerbated by increased demand from the influx of road construction workers, and homes, formerly permanent rentals, reassigned to the Airbnb pool. She also pointed to research by Sandy Darab and Yvonne Hartman from the School of Arts and Social Sciences at Southern Cross University, Lismore, and their studies on the housing situation of older women in the Northern Rivers area. In an article for **ProBono (16/11/2016) the researchers said they had found a “massive problem”. They went on to describe the issue as “a sleeping giant”. In an effort to generate affordable housing funds, Ms Graham said in December last year, Anglicare North Coast launched the Gr8Cleaning business. GR8CLEAN is a specialist cleaning service for Ballina, Alstonville,

Lismore and Byron Bay residents. It does specialised work such as air conditioner cleaning and pressure cleaning of houses/offices, driveways and footpaths. The not-for-profit is run by qualified and trained Anglicare North Coast employees and all profits from GR8CLEAN help Anglicare North Coast continue to provide vital services. ■ **Extract from ProBono article: Hartman says they found that baby boomers, as they come to retirement, are really finding it difficult. “As they come to the end of their working lives and because of their backgrounds with women’s role as carer, and the way it was structured in the last century, women tend to come to the end of their working lives without the same financial resources as men, due to gender inequality in wages etc.,” Hartman said. “Even women when they divorce, and get a very good settlement with the house, most of them can’t actually maintain it or keep the payments up and many lose their home and end up renting and that just becomes untenable when they only have a pension to rely on. Additionally, she says many of the women won’t seek help until they are in a “very, very bad situation” because “they are ashamed that they don’t have anywhere to live and are reluctant to go to service providers until they’re in a bad way”.

GR8CLEAN Visit the website gr8clean.com.au or call (02) 6642 4345. *https://probono australia.com.au/ news/2016/11/ homelessness-olderaustralian-womensleeping-giant/ (16/11/2016)

HAVE YOUR SAY: Email editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au or go online to www.seniorsnews.com.au.

PRACTICAL WORK: Anglicare North Coast CEO Estelle Graham is behind a business to support affordable housing.

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FIVE months ago I published the first of these stories in Seniors Newspaper ‘Talk n thoughts’ section, and I have since noted there is plenty of talk going on with Australian committees, working groups, governments and private interests. On the other hand some not-for-profit building companies such as Brisbane Housing Company or the Tiny Homes Foundation are flat out with fundraising and building appropriate housing. I have also published a story on Sydney’s Paramatta Council, which is taking a look at alternative housing models through a house sharing initiative. However, right now demand far outweighs available accommodation, and as the older demographic increases so does the urgency of this issue. Nevertheless, in a decent society there are always people who, rather than sticking their head in the sand, raise their hand and take solid initiatives in the quest for affordable housing for the older person. Here, I introduce you to Linda Mina, whose own experience led her to set up an online housing site, and Anglicare North Coast NSW chief executive officer Estelle Graham, leader of a group who has gone to work to raise affordable housing construction funds. ■ House sharers Gold Coast resident, 68-year-old Linda Mina, has set up Facebook groups to help older people find share housing. She said her inspiration for creating the Seniors Share Houses Facebook groups evolved from personal experience. “At 60, due to ill health, I retired. My children had moved out and I was left with a mortgage struggling to make ends meet,” she said. “I decided the only way

www.grandparentsqld.com.au

10 Seniors Wide Bay

entertainment

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, February 20, 2017

What’s on Christine’s 10 good time tips for Wide Bay

ART AND ALZHEIMER’S

THE ART Conversation tours provide people living with dementia an opportunity to connect with the world in enriching and life-enhancing ways. A discussion-based tour of works of art provides intellectual stimulation and social inclusion which supports well-being and increased quality of life. People living with dementia often become isolated. Conversations based on works of art allows participants to engage in interpretation, express emotions and recall memories When: Wednesday's once a month 10am-11am Where: Fraser Coast Cultural Centre - 166 Old Maryborough Road, Pialba

OH WHAT A NIGHT!

A TRIBUTE to Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. When you sit down to enjoy the production of Oh What a Night! you will be in for an incredible evening of entertainment. The show features a talented group of performers who look, act and sound just as amazing as Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons did so many years ago. This truly is one action packed production of musical entertainment that you will not want to miss. When: February 22 from 8pm to 10pm Where: Brolga Theatre, 5 Walker Street, Maryborough. Call 4122 6060 to book or email brolga@frasercoast. qld.gov.au.

HERVEY BAY HISTORICAL VILLAGE AND MUSEUM A DOORWAY into the past right in the centre of Hervey Bay. Multi-award winning tourist attraction with 19 buildings and 8000 exhibits. Free Barbecue facilities. Interactive demonstrations on Sundays, 1pm to 3pm. Blacksmith, Wood Turner, Corn Sheller, Rope Maker. Adult: $10, Child: $3, Groups Welcome. When: Open Friday, Saturday 1pm to 4.30pm. Sunday 10.30am to 4.30pm (Demonstrations from 1pm to 3.00pm)

CHRISTINE PERKIN Where: 13 Zephyr Street, Scarness. For details call 4128 4804.

BARNACLES DOLPHIN CENTRE TIN CAN BAY

ON ARRIVAL visitors are welcome to join the volunteers in the water and get to know these beautiful mammals with a small group of people in the water at any one time. Fish for the feeding is available on site. We have an entry fee and a feeding fee, and as a volunteer group they request $5 per person entry fee plus $5 to cover the cost of each fish purchased and other costs. Dolphin feeding does mean getting wet, at least up to your knees, so go prepared! Where: Situated at Barnacle Café, Tin Can Bay Road, Norman Point Tin Can Bay. When: The Dolphin Centre opens at 7am with viewing time between 7am to 8am. There is only one feeding session per day commencing at 8am. Details call 5486 4899.

SEARY’S CREEK RAINBOW BEACH

BEAUT little spot on the way into Rainbow Beach in The Cooloola Recreation Area. Very easy access nice 200 metre stroll along the board-walk. Very pretty scenery with access to creek if you are up for a swim. Where: Rainbow Beach Road, Rainbow Beach. When: Year round

MON REPOS TURTLE ENCOUNTERS

EVERY year, from November to March, you can join QPWS Rangers at Mon Repos Turtle Centre on a guided tour to watch nesting (November to January) and hatching (January to March) marine turtles. To protect nesting and hatching turtles, only turtle encounter tour participants are allowed on Mon Repos beach after 6pm to witness this incredible natural journey. Turtles are wild marine animals and occasionally they do not arrive. While this is unusual, they can’t guarantee you will see nesting turtles or

GREAT ENTERTAINMENT: A tribute to Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons playing at the Brolga Theatre in Maryborough.

You can feed a wild dolphin at beautiful Tin Can Bay.

hatchlings. For more information, go to www.npsr.qld.gov.au/ parks/mon-repos or call 4159 1652. Bookings essential. To book go to www.bundabergregion.org /turtles Where: 141 Mon Repos Road, Mon Repos When: Every year, from November to March

TRAVELLING NORTH

THE AUSTRALIAN classic, by David Williamson. Directed by Judith La Forest. This humorous, iconic play tells of a couple who find new life in a twilight love affair, to the consternation of their children. It is a search for meaning in a life shortly to end. Show runs March 3 to 19. Tickets $25 Adults, $20 Concession/ Members When: March 3 to 19. Where: Z-PAC Theatre, 15 Zephyr Street, Scarness. Call 4124 1271 for details.

SNAKES DOWNUNDER REPTILE PARK &

ZOO

A FUN and affordable day out to be enjoyed by the whole family set just 500m off the Bruce Highway south of Childers. The park displays over 45 species and sub-species of Australian reptiles, amphibians and marsupials. When: Gates open at 9.30am and close at 3pm. Open every day except closed every Wednesday, Easter Friday, Anzac Day, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Where: 51 Lucketts Road, Childers. Phone 4126 3332 or email info[at]snakesdownunder. com.

GOLD PANNING, DEEP CREEK

IN 1867 a discovery of alluvial gold in a gully near the Mary River began the first major gold rush in Queensland and resulted in establishment of the mining town of Gympie. Try your luck in the gold-bearing gully in the town at the Deep Creek

MON REPOS: A turtle hatchling makes its way to the sea. PHOTO: ROBERT ASHDOWN

Fossicking Area. Fossicking licences are available online or at the Lake Alford Visitor Information Centre. Equipment hire is also available from the centre (picks/shovels and pans). A great family activity at minimal cost. Prices: Adult $7.75 for fossicking. Licence required and can be purchased in one month, six month, or one year periods for individuals, clubs and families. tourism.info@gympie.qld. gov.au. Call 1800 444 222 for details or go to www.qld.gov.au/ recreation/activities /fossicking/licencespermits/purchase/ or www.visitgympieregion. com.au. Where: Southern entrance to Gympie between the Bruce Highway and Brisbane Road. From Brisbane Road turn into River Road and Graham St and turn right into Victoria Street.

BAMBOO LAND

NURSERY & PARKLANDS

THE NURSERY is situated on a 10-acre property which has been landscaped into a bamboo paradise with all the species of bamboo, ginger and heliconias growing for display. Most of the 10 acres is filled with a network of small walkways surrounded by gardens that are just bursting with greenery. The gardens are created with the intent of being as natural as possible, using only locally found river rocks, logs and loads of mulch all combined with a good dose of imagination. Bamboo Land is located on the beautiful Burrum River in South-East Queensland, Australia. It is some 300km north of Brisbane and just 2km west of the Bruce Highway between Torbanlea and Howard. When: Open 7 days from 8am to 5pm Where: 87 Old Coach Road, Torbanlea. For details call 4129 4470.

Wide Bay

Monday, February 20, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 11

Travel

Travel to new worlds Ann Rickard takes us out of Australia and into great, new spaces THE world is big, colourful and diverse enough for us to find our own niche or share with others. In this article I have highlighted ten gay destinations from around the world and around the country.

SAN FRANCISCO, U.S.A.

The Big Daddy of all the gay cities, the place where it all came out in the 1960s and gay pride spread its tentacles all over the world. With its Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Lombard St and those cute cable cars, exploring San Francisco is a treat, especially

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when there is a restaurant, café or bar always a few footsteps away.

MYKONOS, GREEK ISLANDS

If San Francisco is King of the gay destinations then Mykonos must be the Queen. The entire Greek Island is gay – from the seafront tavernas at Super Paradise Beach to the myriad clubs and bars hidden in the maze of cobbled streets in Mykonos town.

SITGES, SPAIN

This small fishing village with its sunny beaches and quaint old town was home to a sprinkling of

fishermen and their families in the 1960s, until the gay crowd discovered its laid-back charm and arrived in droves. The clubs, gyms and saunas quickly popped up and now Sitges is famous the world over for its vivacious gay nightlife and colourful festivals. It’s a perfect European summer destination for all of us.

sweep of sandy beach fringed with over-sand taverns buzzes with gay women hanging out, having fun. How Lesbos will recover from the massive influx of refugees in the past couple of years won’t be known for some time. It is cheaper than most Greek islands.

SKALA ERRESSOS – GREEK ISLAND OF LESBOS

Super gay-friendly city, Sydney pulses during the biggest annual gay party in the country each February/March. We all know about Mardi Gras but how many of us have made the pilgrimage to watch the parade? Just

This small seaside village on the south-west of the Greek island attracts lesbians from all over the world. A

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

once in our lives?

BERLIN, GERMANY

A pulsating city that welcomes everyone and loves the gay community. Berlin enjoys a reputation as one of the world’s most dynamic gay capitals. The gay community has made Berlin a hedonist’s dream destination, why shouldn’t we join the party?

PUERTO VALLARATA, MEXICO

Probably Mexico’s most popular gay destination with more than its share of gay bars, night clubs and hilarious drag shows. Watching the

parade of fabulously fit bodies in Speedos while sipping icy margaritas at a beach-front bar is going to make us seniors hold in our tummies and vow to get to the gym when we return home.

BANGKOK, THAILAND

While not exactly a gay destination, Bangkok is known for its myriad bars where the lady boys love to slip into something glam. Thai people are among the most sweet, friendly and tolerant people in the world which makes this city a drawcard for the gay community.

12 Seniors Wide Bay

travel

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, February 20, 2017

PICTURE-POSTCARD: The view of the famous Amalfi Coast with beautiful Gulf of Salerno, Campania, Italy. PHOTO: BLUEJAYPHOTO

Everyone should see Italy once in their life Ann Rickard

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ITALY is one of the countries on the bucket lists of so many travellers – even though it has suffered a number of heartbreaking disasters lately. But intrepid seniors do not let a potential calamity of nature turn them off their travel plans, do they? Everyone should see Italy just once if it is possible within time and budget restraints. The first time you visit Rome and set eyes on the coliseum will be in your memory forever. The same goes for St Peter’s. Even if the Trevi Fountain is packed with tourists, and it will be, and you will find it hard to snap a selfie without a dozen others in the background, and you will, it won’t take away from the spine-tingling thrill that you are there, right there at this world famous landmark. The first time I entered the Plazza del Campo, the historic centre of Siena in Tuscany, I experienced a feeling of mouth slack. My jaw dropped considerably, not quite to the ground, but it definitely dropped as I took in the sight of arguably Europe’s most renowned medieval square. The breathtaking architecture of the

shell-shaped piazza, the soaring Torre del Mangia, that slender tower rising from the square, the Fonta Gaia, the fountain that first brought water to the square, halted me on the spot. Our Siena visit was just days before the famous Palio di Siena, the bare-back horse race around the periphery of the piazza where thousands of people cram into every centimetre of space on the ground and hang off the surrounding balconies to watch and cheer. There was much ceremony and colour during our pre-Palio visit, many celebrations with groups of young men draped in brilliant colours, carrying flags, beating drums. We sat at one of the cafes around the edge of the square for aperitvo and tried to keep our jaws from gaping too much at the splendour of it. The first time on the Amalfi Coast was another jaw-dropping experience. The huddled towns of Positano and Amalfi clinging to the cliffs, the death-defying ride on the local buses around the hairpin bends of the coastal mountains that plunge to the sea, it was all so thrilling, despite the hundreds of steps up and down to the beach allowed us to eat and drink more.

There is always a positive side. The Cinque Terra was another first that offered a buzz beyond words as we walked along the cliff faces to each of the five villages, wondering if we had the stamina to walk on to the next. We did, but only after fortifying gin and tonics. Even though it took an entire day and there was much climbing and puffing and cursing along the Cinque Terra towards the last town of Monterosso, it was one of the most unforgettable experiences of all our travels. Now if I am fortunate to visit the Cinque Terra again, I would take the train or boat between villages – a much more senior-friendly option. Florence is another Italian joy never to be forgotten. Ensure you reserve your tickets before you go to the Uffizi Gallery in the Piazza della Signoria and avoid the endless queue. It is worth it just to stand before Botticelli’s Birth of Venus. The same ticket-savvy rule applies to the Accademia Gallery where you will stand beneath a naked David and hold your breath in enthralment. Stay as long as time and money will permit. You will want to get the most out of every minute in this brilliant land.

travel

Monday, February 20, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Wide Bay

Seniors 13

Regional city culture Phil Hawkes

BENDIGO, Victoria. Best known for its 19th Century Gold Rush history, its Chinese Museum and unique Bendigo Pottery. And maybe the famous Shamrock Hotel with its wide verandas peering down on the main street delightfully called “Pall Mall”… the early colonial settlers certainly had a sense of humour. Irish, no doubt. But what of today’s Bendigo? We decided to find out for ourselves, so after driving less than two hours from Melbourne we’re sauntering along Pall Mall observing the rejuvenated heritage listed buildings as well as a smattering of more recent architecture, and lots of green space. Surprisingly, some trendy boutiques and streetside cafés as well. First impressions are important, and it seems to be a relaxed visitorfriendly place. So far so good. Next we check in at a new hotel, the Schaller Studio not far away (in fact next to the hospital) and are

Bendigo has preserved history and moved with the modern immediately struck by the artwork and sculptures dominating the entire building, including all the guest rooms. It’s like walking into a gallery of modern art, plus a studio section in the lobby where guests (and their children) can use the provided art materials and even attend art classes. Mark Schaller, after whom the hotel is named, is a contemporary Victorian artist well known as one of the founders of the expressionist group, Roar Studios. Schaller says: “Bendigo is really romantic…the vibrant art centre for regional Victoria… (growing) into a unique destination for art lovers around the world”. The Bendigo Art Gallery is proof of this. With its long history dating back to 1887 and modern, well-lit extensions, it’s arguably Australia’s finest gallery outside a capital city. Another example of an arts-related project

embraced by the community is the Ulumbarra Theatre complex. Built in and around the bones of the 1860s Sandhurst Prison, this is as attractive an arts venue as we’ve found anywhere. There’s a busy program of theatre, film, music and other events and especially educational activities, as the high school is an integral part of the complex. The Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation played an important role during the building of Ulumbarra and the opening of the theatre. The name means Gather Together or Meeting Place, as the hill on which it stands was a significant meeting place long before a gaol was constructed there. Next we turn our attention to the city’s culinary offerings. It’s not difficult to find wine bars and restaurants mirroring

RICH TRADITIONS: Ulumbarra Arts Centre in the old gaol.

the Melbourne scene in miniature… but here the emphasis is predictably on locally-sourced food and wine. We have pitstops at places like Wine Bank, Mr Beebe’s and Rocks on Rosalind, sampling wines and tasting plates. All very delicious, convivial and relaxing… no city hustling here. There’s a spirit about these places which makes “tree change” start to sound like a good idea. ■ artserieshotels.com.au ■ Phil Hawkes was hosted by Art Series Hotels – The Schaller Studio.

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14 Seniors Wide Bay

travel

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, February 20, 2017

Feel the joy of flying high A miniature world view from the heights of a hot air balloon IT’S NOT as quiet as you might think flying in a hot air balloon as it sweeps high across the landscape. Two sounds break the silence. With reassuring regularity, the burner bursts into action filling the air with shooting flames and the balloon with hot air. Then there is the chatter of fellow passengers as they wonder at the changing vista and the constant clicks as they record the stunning landscape. There’s nothing pleasant about being ready for a pick up at 4.20am, especially when the night before included plenty of cocktails, but that’s all part of the package when you decide on a balloon flight. It’s too early. It’s too cold. You are stuck on a bus, and you don’t know where it’s heading, but there’s plenty of excitement because you are going to get high on the Gold Coast in a balloon! This is for people who

EAT, DRINK AND BE KERRY KERRY HEANEY like to live life large, so I’m leaving all my fears and phobias safely tucked up in the warm hotel room bed. The bus heads into the Gold Coast Hinterland, about 30 minutes’ drive from the coastline. Here the scenery is dramatically different thanks to an ancient volcano which created the tall mountains now coated in green by Mother Nature. The first task is to fill the balloons with hot air, and they gently start to inflate skywards. As the balloon gains buoyancy, we climb into the wicker basket to add weight, so it hugs the ground. There are a couple of hefty lads holding on to the basket as well, just in case. Climbing over the steep

basket side is a little challenging, but there are plenty of helping hands close by. When we lift off, it’s a smooth ride upwards until

everything below is a long way away. It’s such a beautiful morning with patches of fog hiding

some parts of the land and sky reflections in lakes as we float past. The buildings seem Lilliputian below, and tiny dogs run around the lake chasing roosting birds. It’s life in miniature. The pilot points out landmarks including Tamborine Mountain, Lamington National Park and the tall towers of the Gold Coast’s skyscrapers in the distance. This is a photographer’s paradise, and there’s much clicking to capture

escorted ESCAPES

the memorable images. Gradually we start to lose height, and the balloon is no longer dancing way above the trees but closing in on a paddock. We glided over the top of long grass strands for a few minutes before coming to a stop with just a slight bump. The landing was almost as smooth as the take-off. Too easy. Then it was all about getting the remaining air out of the balloon and packing it up. Opening a vent at the top of the balloon allowed the hot air to escape and passengers became workers, rolling and folding until the balloon was just a bag on the ground. Another short drive and we were off the bus at O’Reilly’s Homestead set among the vineyard at Canungra in the Gold Coast Hinterland. Hot Air Balloon’s Champagne Breakfast at O’Reilly’s Grand Homestead Vineyard costs $280 for an adult. Disclaimer: The writer was a guest of Gold Coast Tourism.

Enjoy your holiday knowing you have an expert with you every step of the way.

INCLUDES RETURN AIRFARES PLUS DOOR TO DOOR AIRPORT TRANSFERS*

BEST OF MYANMAR (BURMA) HIGHLIGHTS OF PERU 17 DAYS & ECUADOR Departs: 4 Nov 2017

Highlights Enjoy a small group private tour to this ancient magical land. Explore temples and pagodas in Yangon and Bagan and enjoy the unspoilt scenery of this wonderful country. Relax on a 2 night upstream cruise on the Irrawaddy River from Bagan to Mandalay and explore the tranquil Inle Lake region. Plus breakfast daily, 4 lunches and 5 dinners.

$6795* * solo traveller from $8295 from

22 DAYS

Departs: 25 Oct 2017

Highlights Small group private tour of Peru and Ecuador. Explore the Amazon Rainforest and the historical Inca cities at Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Venture into Ecuador to visit the Cloud Forest, the Avenue of the Volcanoes and the cities of Quito, Otavalo and Cuenca.Plus breakfast daily, 10 lunches and 9 dinners. * from

solo traveller from

$9975

$11,675*

AFRICAN ADVENTURE

BEST OF SPAIN & PORTUGAL

Departs: 30 Jun & 1 Sep 2017

Departs: 10 Sep 2017

30 DAYS

Highlights From stunning Cape Town, we head north to Fish River Canyon and the amazing sand dunes of Sossusvlei in Namibia. Enjoy game viewing in Etosha and Chobe National Parks and explore the Okavango Delta in traditional mokoro. Finish in Victoria Falls with the ‘Flight of the Angels’ helicopter ride. Plus breakfast daily, 2 lunches and 18 dinners.

$12,950* * solo traveller from $14,550 from

27 DAYS

Highlights Visit the Sagrada Familia, travel through the Andalucia region, view the dazzling architecture in Seville and visit the Alcazar of Seville. Explore the charm of Lisbon and the Douro Valley wine region in Portugal. Full day tour to Toledo, the former capital of Spain. Plus breakfast daily, 2 lunches and 4 dinners. from solo traveller from

$12,835* $15,995*

1300 722 079 escapetravel.com.au

*Travel restrictions & conditions apply. For full terms and conditions refer to escortedescapes.com.au. Prices are correct as at 1 Jan 17 & are subject to change. Quoted prices on sale until 8 weeks prior to each departure date or until sold out prior. Prices are per person, twin share and subject to availability. Prices shown are for payments made by cash in store and are fully inclusive of taxes, levies, government charges and other applicable fees. Payments made by credit card incur a surcharge. Arrival and departure transfers included up to the return value of $100 pp. If costs between your home and Brisbane airport exceed this you can either choose to pay the difference or have the $100 pp refunded and make your own arrangements to and from Brisbane airport. Participants must be a minimum of 18 years of age. Escorted Escapes product is exclusive to Qld, SA and select NSW Escape Travel stores. All cruises are based on lead-in inside cabin twin share. All Escorted Escapes are subject to minimum passengers booking, paying and travelling together. ^Interest Free: Approved applicants only on a Lombard 180 Visa card. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply including a $99 Annual Fee charged on the account open date and annually on the anniversary of the account open date. Minimum finance amount applies and is valid on holidays over $999. Interest, currently 22.99% p.a., is payable on any balance outstanding after the 12 month Interest Free period. Ask in store for details. Offer ends 31 Dec 17. Credit provided by Lombard Finance Pty Limited ABN 31 099 651 877, Australian Credit Licence number 247415. Lombard® is brought to you by FlexiGroup ®. FROM BRISBANE. Flight Centre Travel Group Limited (ABN 25 003 377 188) trading as Escape Travel. ATAS Accreditation No. A10412. FCMAUS75881

Wide Bay

Monday, February 20, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Seniors 15

Wellbeing ACTIVE AGEING

WEIGHT-bearing and resistance exercises are the answer to helping your bones get stronger. Osteoporosis Australia exercise specialists say hopping and jumping, and progressive resistance training such as lifting weights in the gym, are the most effective exercises for improving and preserving bone strength throughout life. Other exercises that involve the feet making impact with the ground such as running and jumping, tennis and dancing are all good for bones. OA’s Professor Belinda Beck recommends regular exercise that raises the heart rate is important for reducing the risk of common lifestyle

diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. “But we know that aerobic exercise on its own makes little or no difference to bones,” Prof Beck said.

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.. .hopping and jumping, and progressive resistance training such as lifting weights in the gym, are the most effective exercises . . . “Bones need to be stressed in very specific ways in order to get stronger.”

To get successfully active, you should: ■ Be regular – exercise for about 30 minutes, at least three times a week. ■ Exercise intensity should increase gradually over time – the amount of weight used, degree of exercise difficulty, height of jumps, and so on, must increase or vary over time to challenge the bones and muscles. ■ Routines should be varied rather than repetition. ■ Exercises should be performed in short, intensive bursts. ■ Regular short bouts of weight-bearing exercise separated by several hours are better than one long session. ■ Lifting weights quickly is more effective for

Staying together with fur friends Tracey Johnstone

KEEPING older Australians and their pets together is the goal of the national lobby group, Pets and Positive Ageing, which is the first of its kind. The voluntary organisation is a specialised advocacy group that is helping find ways for domestic pets to stay with their elderly owners at home or in retirement villages, in hostels, at independent living units and in low care areas of nursing. President Jan Phillips said the organisation realised from very early days that pets and ageing was a national issue. Since 2012 it has confronted and challenged the issues surrounding when older Australians need to move to supported accommodation and the vexing problem of what to do with their pets, which can at times stop people from making the choice of moving to more suitable accommodation. Ms Phillips said PAPA is continually engaging with several animal welfare and in-home pet support programs across Australia, providing them

access to a resource-rich website and pet-friendly accommodation information flyers, and organising events on pets and positive ageing issues. Its community consultations have led PAPA to offer, “practical initiatives such as promotion of support services in other states, holding public forums on key issues, talking to key senior groups and service providers, and mentoring community organisations looking to emulate the PAPA programs,” Ms Phillips said. The group’s newest campaign is focused on pet support becoming one of the standard services offered to home and community care clients within home care packages. Other PAPA projects on the table for 2017 are developing advice on end-of-life for pets, promoting the use of emergency or home alone contact cards, and opening discussions on taking dogs into public places and onto public transport. For more information on the group, go to www.petsandpositive

PET SUPPORT: PAPA president Jan Phillips with Kirsty and Mintie. PHOTO: DI JOHNSTONE

ageing.com. This is the first story in a series on Pets and Positive Ageing.

❝

PAPA is engaging with several animal welfare and in-home pet support programs across Australia.

— Jan Phillips

improving muscle function than lifting them slowly. ■ Rapid, short bursts of movement such as jumping or skipping are more effective than slow movements. Exercise specialists recommend that before

HEALTH HELP: Strengthen your bones using regular weight-bearing and resistance exercises. PHOTO: OSTEOPOROSIS AUSTRALIA

anyone starts exercising, particularly those people who have osteoporosis or already had a fracture, a qualified exercise

professional should be consulted so that an appropriate program can be designed to obtain the most benefits.

16 Seniors Wide Bay

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, February 20, 2017

Finance

Strategies counter change Tracey Johnstone

THE changes to the aged pension asset test are driving pensioners towards looking for innovative ways to protect themselves from losing out as the tests come into play. Financial planner Liam Shorte of Verante Pty Ltd, says the feedback from within the community is the changes are hitting middle-income earners who believe this Federal Government cost-saving measure should be applied to companies and people with more wealth, not them. “There is a lot of bad feeling among the people who have been affected, basically because a lot of them planned their retirements around what they could expect from the aged pension plus their

own money,” Mr Shorte said. “It’s such a huge difference. For every $1000 you reduce your assessable assets by, you can get $78 extra pension per year. That’s a 7.8% return if you can use the $1000 to improve your wealth rather than give it away,” he said.

STRATEGIES

Mr Shorte offered the following strategies to help pensioners through the aged pension assets test maze: ■ Contribute to superannuation in the name of a spouse if they are under age pension age. Putting $50,000 in superannuation could increase your single pension by nearly $4000 per year until your spouse qualifies for the age pension.

■ Purchase funeral bonds as a person is allowed to invest up to $12,250 into funeral bonds to cover funeral costs and the investment is asset test exempt. For a couple both taking up the maximum funeral bond, it could provide an increased age pension of $1911 per year. ■ Making improvements to the principal home – funds spent on home improvements and renovations are not assessed against your pension. For example, spending $12,000 on a solar system will pay back over 10 to 15 years, but also mean up to $938 extra in pension income each year per person. ■ Review the value of motor cars, caravans, trailers, bikes, contents and personal effects. ■ Look to pay for the big cruise or overseas trip in

advance – ask for a discount for doing so or an upgrade. Improve your income Charge board and lodging – some people in bigger homes are looking to make up for the loss in age pension by renting out a room. You could say rent out a room and charge $150 per week for the room which includes breakfast. Centrelink’s default position is that 50% of that $120 per week is treated as additional income (about $3900 per year). The remaining 50% is assumed by Centrelink as required to cover costs such as utilities, food, etc. If the costs were higher than the 50%, then a submission to Centrelink could see that 50/50 standard approach being adjusted. If you are an

asset-based part-pensioner, the additional $3900 does not further impact your pension. Lower Centrelink assessments are available where more meals, etc, are offered. Gifting This is not something I recommend often as it seems a bit silly to give away capital to get some income. However, if you have planned to help family, then maybe you should think about transferring the money early. The allowable gifting limit for both singles and couples is $10,000 per financial year, limited to $30,000 per five financial years. If the total of gifts made in a financial year exceeds $10,000 the excess will be assessed as a

deprived asset for five years from the date of the gift and will be subject to Centrelink’s means test.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Mr Shorte says he gives clients some strategies to think about and then he sends them to a Centrelink financial information service officer. “They help people make the most of the system, but they can’t give advice,” Mr Shorte said. “We get them to go to Centrelink to run (the strategies) past them to see if they are possible in their situation. Centrelink may refer back to us to implement the strategy.” Mr Shorte encourages pensioners to try to use all the services for their situation.

Beware pitfalls of reverse loans THE latest round of figures showing rising home values in almost all our state capitals highlights how mean many Australian retirees could have a valuable resource. at their fingertips. Older Australians, who may not have enjoyed the benefits of employer-paid super for their entire working life, can face the prospect of a lean retirement. However, one area where over-50s often have an advantage over their younger counterparts is home ownership For senior Australians home equity can be a source of retirement income. It’s all thanks to the availability of reverse mortgages – a financial

THINK MONEY PAUL CLITHEROE product that allows home owners, usually aged 60-plus, to draw on home equity with loan funds secured by their home. No repayments are necessary with a reverse mortgage, at least while you live in the place. Interest charges and fees are added to the loan balance with the total to be repaid when the property is sold or the last borrower has passed away. It’s an option for asset-rich, cash-poor seniors to boost retirement cash. But

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No repayments are necessary with a reverse mortgage , at least while you live in the place. reverse mortgages do have downsides. In its January 2017 star-rating report on reverse mortgages, research group Canstar found the average interest rate applicable to these loans is 6.25%. That’s around 2% more than you could pay on a standard home loan, and the mounting interest charge raises questions about how a reverse mortgage can impact home equity over time.

Let me start by saying that Anyone considering a reverse mortgage should look for a ‘no negative equity’ guarantee. This means you will never owe more on the loan than the value of your home. That said, Canstar found that after 20 years, a loan for $90,000 representing 15% of a property’s value, could end up costing a total of $349,431 including the initial borrowing. Over 30 years, the loan cost including principal, could blow out to $662,131. These figures may seem alarming, and they are based on current interest rates, which are at record lows. On the plus side, it’s a reasonable bet your property will rise in value over the next 20-30

CHOICES: For retirees finding it tough to meet the cost of living, a reverse mortgage may be worth considering.

years. The big unknown is whether the capital growth will outstrip the loan’s interest rate. For some retireesfinding it tough to meet the cost of living, a reverse mortgage may be worth considering but it is an area where good legal and financial advice

is essential. especially if you plan to leave a reasonable estate. 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.

Free public information seminar on EPAs THE Seniors Legal and Support Service will conduct free public information seminars on Enduring Powers of Attorney in Hervey Bay and Maryborough. An Enduring Power of Attorney is a document which gives

someone the legal power to act on your behalf in relation to personal, health and financial matters. It is a powerful document and if care is not taken in choosing an Attorney and inserting

appropriate limitations in the document, people can find themselves without a home and money due to the actions of a loved one. Equally, it can be a very useful document to enable someone to make decisions and give

instructions to banks and health providers when an individual is not able to do so due to illness or incapacity. We often find when someone’s health is failing one of the first thing service providers will

ask for is whether the person has an Enduring Power of Attorney. The Seniors Legal and Support Service will be conducting free public information seminars between 10–11am on Wednesday, March 8 at

the Hervey Bay Library and Monday, March 27 at the Maryborough Library. Places are limited. Anyone interested in attending should phone Diane on 4124 6863 or email admin.slass@ bigpond.com to register.

Monday, February 20, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

neighbourhood news

Wide Bay

Seniors 17

Community HOW TO SUBMIT NOTICES

is to make friends and have fun.

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 March issue is March 8. Email Nicky or Chris at communitynotes@ seniorsnewspaper.com.au

BUNDABERG SPINNERS AND WEAVERS

WE NEED some help making our pledge of 10,000 stars. Any age can help make the stars, basic paper-folding skills needed. We will be at The Plunge Café every Friday from 12–2pm if anyone would like to come along and make some stars. We are weaving stars from paper and ribbon as part of a worldwide project to end violence, to be displayed at the Commonwealth Games 2018. If there are any craft groups interested in helping please contact Cheryl 0412 779 505. Check out the website Onemillionstars.net for more info and instruction video. I also have printed instructions available. The stars will be displayed at The Vault at the Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery from March 23 to May 7 and then sent to Brisbane to go into the One Million Stars display for the Commonwealth Games 2018.

FRASER COAST VIEW CLUB

WE MEET on the first Thursday of each month at The Clubhouse, Tooth St, Pialba from 11am for an 11.30 start. Our meeting for March will be themed International Women's Day. Colours for the day are purple, white and teal. If you would like to come along and join us and our guest speaker, call Gillian on 4129 4977 or email on gillianry@bigpond.com.

CARLYLE GARDENS

SHOOTING a score lower than your age is every golfer’s dream, but for Carlyle Gardens Retirement Village resident, Ernie Nankivell, 89, it’s just another day on the course. Village manager Phill Sellwood said age might be on Ernie’s side, but beating his age 25 times in the past year and nearly 40 times during his lifetime was an enviable feat. Ernie and many of the other residents can often be found playing a round at the picturesque Bargara Golf Club that is just a few minutes from the village. Last year, Ernie fired an amazing 79, his lowest recorded score, to beat his age by 10 shots! “I love golf and bought my first set of clubs when I was 40, but wish I had started playing a lot earlier,” Ernie said. Ernie has certainly made up for lost time by nailing two holes-in-one at two different golf clubs, Bargara and Yeppoon. Fellow resident and golf enthusiast Alan Almond said shooting your age was one of the finest achievements in golf. “It’s extraordinary! I wonder if anyone else in Australia has managed to shoot their age 25 times

COPING WITH HEAT

GOLFING PROWESS: Ernie Nankivell 89, regularly shoots his age on the golf course.

in just one year?” Alan said. Phill Sellwood was pleased that Carlyle Gardens Retirement Village and RetireAustralia would continue its annual support for Bargara Golf Club’s veterans and their championship events.

NSAA BUNDABERG

THE Bundaberg National Serviceman’s Association (QLD) Inc will conduct a coach trip on Thursday, April 27. The trip will depart Bundaberg Tours Office, Verdant Sliding Rd at 7.45am returning about 4.30pm. The journey will be Northbound to Calliope and then down to Boyne Valley Rd on to Many Peaks for lunch. Meals will be available at the hotel for $12 a head. We hope to see Awonga dam on this trip as well as Boynedale, Ubobo and Nagoorin. Cost is $20 a head. Morning tea in included. Call Brian Tost on 4151 3485 to enquire and book a place ASAP.

THE HERVEY BAY JAZZ CLUB

WE INVITE you to join other jazz lovers on the last Friday of each month at the HB RSL, Pialba. The members are friendly and the music is cool and performed by some of Queensland’s best and brightest jazz groups. In February we have the David Bentley Quartet, a top-notch group playing swinging jazz; in March we have Sue Bond and her band, no doubt playing from her latest CD Come Back To Me and for April we have the fabulous Kitty Kats helping the club celebrate our birthday with a bright, new and special cabaret performance by these gifted three! Why not join us? Annual membership is $15 and for monthly gigs it’s $20 members or $25 for non-members (always welcome). There’s a monthly newsletter Jazz Notes to keep you up to date. Help keep live jazz alive in Hervey Bay! For

details email herveybay jazz@gmail.com.

Monday to Friday, 9am–3pm.

FREE LEGAL SUPPORT SERVICE FOR SENIORS

CENT SALE

THE Seniors Legal and Support Service is a community service providing free legal advice and support for seniors 60 years and over, who are experiencing or at risk of elder abuse, mistreatment or financial exploitation. The service can provide information, advice and support including: ■ Short term counselling / advocacy; ■ Information on your legal rights; ■ Advice on Enduring Power of Attorney documents; ■ Referrals to other support, legal and consumer services; and ■ Community education. For further information phone the service on 4124 6863 or call into their office situated at Shop 6, 16 Torquay Rd, Hervey Bay (opp RSL) –

AVONDALE Tigers Rugby League is holding a Cent Sale on Saturday, February 18 at the East Sports Club, Eastgate St, East Bundaberg. Starting at 1.30pm. Please direct enquiries to 4151 3133.

MIXED PROBUS CLUB OF HERVEY BAY

WE MEET on the fourth Thursday of the month at the Masonic Hall, Watson St at 9am. New members are very welcome. Come along and enjoy morning tea with friendly folk and listen to an interesting speaker – you may also like to join us for lunch at a local restaurant. Names will be taken at the meeting. The next meeting is on February 23. You can attend for three meetings until you decide whether to join as a member. We are not a fundraising club – our goal

WITH temperatures reaching up to 37 degrees in the region, Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien is urging people to look out for elderly friends and neighbours. “Often people don’t like to bother their neighbours and friends, and shut themselves up at home when it gets very hot,” Mr O’Brien said. “But extreme heat such as the temperatures we are experiencing can be dangerous for older people, particularly those with health conditions.” He asked people across the Wide Bay to call or visit anyone they suspected might need help, even if it was just to remind them to stay hydrated. “It could be as simple as helping them draw the blinds against the heat, doing their shopping so they don’t have to exert themselves, or inviting them over for a cool drink in air-conditioning,” Mr O’Brien said. The following advice could help keep you cool: ■ Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel very thirsty. CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

18 Seniors Wide Bay

neighbourhood news

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, February 20, 2017

others, visit dva.gov.au/ consultation-and-grants/ grants, which contains information on each of DVA’s grant programs and how to apply.

FROM PAGE 17

■ Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and fizzy drinks as they make dehydration worse. ■ Take cool showers or splash yourself with cold water several times a day. ■ Ensure your home has adequate circulation by leaving a secured window or door open. ■ Try to eat more salads and fruits as they contain lots of water. ■ Be alert to the symptoms of heat stress, including muscle cramps, exhaustion, nausea, dizziness and clammy skin. Call your doctor if you are concerned.

CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY

DVA GRANTS

MEMBER for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien was calling on local community groups to apply for grants towards projects that aid veterans or honour the Wide Bay’s military history. Mr O’Brien said funding was available through a range of grant programs, as part of the Australian Government’s efforts to support our past and present servicemen and women. “It is important that, as a community, we continue to honour the service and sacrifice of the people who serve in defence of our country, so I encourage all community groups in the Wide Bay explore the grants on offer,” Mr O’Brien said. Mr O’Brien said any group could apply for grant funding towards activities that assist the health and quality of life of veterans or commemorative projects that honour our military past. There is also funding available for ex-service organisations (ESO’s) to improve their capacity and to assist in supporting compensation and welfare assistance to veterans and their dependents, and a new grants program has been established to aid younger veterans The new grants program – Supporting Younger

HELPING OTHERS: Bundy Spinners and Weavers are looking for help to make these stars as part of a worldwide project to end violence, to be displayed at the Commonwealth Games 2018.

Veterans – was to assist projects that engage and actively involve our younger veterans, particularly with their transition to civilian life. In 2017, DVA will run funding rounds in the grant programs described below: The Saluting Their Service (STS) commemorations program provides funding to eligible organisations for projects that contribute to Australia’s understanding of its wartime heritage and honour the service and sacrifice of its servicemen and women. Two categories of grants are available under the STS Program: ■ Community Commemorative Grants (CCG) – up to $4000 in funding is available for projects that assist people at a community level and enable small communities to build memorials and preserve wartime memorabilia that are locally significant. This is a rolling grants program. Applications are

accepted at any time and are processed three to four times a year. Successful grant applicants receive funding shortly after approval. ■ Major Commemorative Grants (MCG) – funding in excess of $4000 is available for significant projects at a national or state/territory level. This program has two funding rounds. The first round opens July 1 and the second round opens January 4. Successful grant applicants receive funding shortly after approval. ■ The Veteran and Community Grants (V&CG) Program aims to improve the independence and quality of life for members of the veteran community. This program provides funding for projects that support activities and services to sustain or enhance health and wellbeing. The V&CG is a rolling grants program. Applications are accepted at any time and are processed three to four times a year.

Successful grant applicants receive funding shortly after approval. ■ The Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) Program supports ESOs to provide compensation and welfare assistance to the veteran and Defence communities. It also links closely to the Advocacy Training and Development Program, which provides practitioners with the essential skills for claims, advocacy and welfare work. BEST is an annual grants program, which opens February 1 and closes March 31 each year. Successful grant applicants receive funding between July and September in the same year. ■ The Grants-In-Aid Program (available to only national ESOs) provides administrative support in recognition of the work national ESOs do to support the veteran community. The program helps to fund representational

activities aimed at improving connectedness between the head office of a national organisation and its state and local branches. These activities contribute toward an organisation’s governance and responsiveness to national issues. They play an important role in ensuring the issues faced by local veterans, regardless of when or where they served, are shared and understood by ESOs and the Australian Government. GIA is an annual funding program that is open from February 1 to March 31 each year. Successful grant applicants receive funding between July and September in the same year. The Supporting Younger Veterans program will commence in the first quarter of the 2017–18 financial year. More details will be available in the second quarter of 2017. For details on this program or any of the

■ Tin Can Bay You can help us to help clean up, fix up and conserve the environment from Norman Point Park to Crab Creek, Tin Can Bay. We will meet at the Playground area opposite the Tin Can Bay Library on Sunday, March 5 from 8am–12pm. For details contact site co-ordinator Jim George by email: tcbfishingclub@bigpond. com ■ Cooloola Cove Join us to help clean up, fix up and conserve the environment at Centenary of Federation Park, Mauretainia Avenue, Cooloola Cove on March 5 from 8–11am. Contact Site Coordinator Joan Creswell by email ccrnf103@ bigpond.com for further details. ■ Inskip point Join us to help clean up, fix up and conserve the environment at M.V. Natone Clean up Australia Site on beach front. This Clean Up is a recurring one which takes place yearly. Next Clean Up March 4 from 8am–3pm. Contact site co-ordinator Peter White by emailing him at peterwhite1966@gmail. com for further details. ■ Amamoor Join us to help clean up, fix up and conserve the environment. Meeting Point is Amamoor Hall. This Clean Up is a recurring one which takes place yearly. Next Clean Up is March 5. Start time 8–10am. Site co-ordinator Elli Webb, contact by email elli.webb@gympie.qld.gov. au for further details. For information in your area go to www.cleanup australiaday.org.au.

Come On Let’s Do The Google This March Tune in, turn on and tap into next month’s technology edition. This March, we’re sharing dozens of user-friendly tips to start or further your use of computers, cameras or phones. There’s so much available to enhance our lives, from new communication techniques to medical devices and very clever cameras.

Pick up your free copy of the March edition at your local stockist or read online at seniorsnews.com.au News + LifestyLe + HeaLtH + traveL + fiNaNce + eNtertaiNmeNt

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Get savvy and join the tech talk this March in Seniors Newspapers.

feature

Monday, February 20, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

Wide Bay

Seniors 19

Top tips for easy drive

you need an auxiliary transmission air cooler. 3.CAMPING GROUNDS ■ Free camping grounds: Take care, you can’t pre-book, so the best idea is to get in early. Aim to be where you want to be by 3pm. ■ Paid camping grounds: Wise to pre-book, especially in peak seasons.

offer cheap showers (just wear your thongs). ■ Laundry: Put your washing in a bucket with a lid. Put in some washing powder and cold water and place on the back seat floor, then drive away. You will find the driving motion is enough to shake the dirt out of your clothes.

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HERE THEY COME: Grey Nomads flock to Woolgoolga in winter. PHOTO: TREVOR VEALE

★The Grey Nomads: Two Lives; Eight Months: A Thousand Experiences by John A Richardson. ★Camps Australia, www.campsaustraliawide .com or RACQ Shop

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Come relax in a tranquil and tropical mountain hideaway and treat yourself to an indulgent escape. 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.

4. AMENITIES ■ Toilets: If possible take your own, be it a toilet tent, chemical toilet, etc. There are grey waste points where sewage can be dumped in most towns – check before you go. ■ Showers: Solar showers are cheap and work well. You can also check with some yacht clubs and service stations that may

6538719aa

IT’S great to dream of retiring and hitting the road, it’s another matter entirely to sit down and understand what that really looks like. This month we provide a few very practical tips to assist you in getting started on your dream-trip. 1.MONEY ■ The big three costs are petrol, food, accommodation. The cost of the three will vary depending on the area and time of your trip. A savvy move includes a contingency fund – this trip is an adventure, so anything could happen. 2. VEHICLES ■ Perform basic maintenance on your vehicles such as checking wipers and fluid levels ■ Schedule necessary services such as oil changes or tune-ups. ■ If towing, pay attention to the cooling system, as towing increases the amount of heat generated by the engine and transmission. ■ Check with your vehicle’s dealer to see if

A little pre-planning can ensure the trip of a lifetime

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20 Seniors Wide Bay

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, February 20, 2017

Live and

Love don’t cost a thing... 6518341ac

Great range of mens & ladies wear plus mens work clothes.

Are you struggling to afford food?

Why not try our Extra Choices Low Cost Food Support Centre

You can find WE CARE 2 at

Ph: 4124 0913

225 Main Street Urraween Email: office@wc2.org.au

Nearest bus stops : Kawungan Shops, Main Street & Tafe Campus, Urraween Rd

Who do you call... Seniors Card 137 468 or 1800 175 500 (free call outside Brisbane) Centrelink: Retirement 132 300 Disability, Sickness & Carers 132 717 Employment Services 132 850

The way to bake a Persian Love Cake

Seniors Enquiry Line 1300 135 500 Department of Veteran Affairs 133 254 or 1800 555 254 (Regional) National Information Centre on Retirement Investments (NICRI) 1800 020 110

1800 200 422

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National Aged Care Information www.agedcareaustralia.gov.au

LOVE: Show it with a little extra care and attention.

Servings 16 people, prep time 15 minutes, cook 60 minutes. Ingredients 3 cups almond meal, blanched; 1/2 cup desiccated coconut; 1 & 1/2 cups coconut sugar; 1/2 cup (120g) butter, softened; 1 tsp salt; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1 cup sheep’s

Seniors News

milk yogurt; 4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tsp ground cardamom; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup pistachios, roughly chopped; 1 cup creme fraiche, thick cream or yogurt for serving. Instructions You will need a 23-25cm springform cake tin for this recipe.

Preheat oven to 160C (fan-forced), butter a 23-25cm springform cake tin and line the base and sides with baking paper, in a large bowl combine the almond meal, desiccated coconut, coconut sugar, butter and salt and mix until it resembles breadcrumbs. Spoon half

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Embracing Ageing

BOOK THIS SPACE!

of the mixture into the cake tin and gently press it evenly over the base. Add the eggs, yogurt and spices to the almond mixture and beat until well combined. Pour over the base and smooth the top. Bake the cake for 60 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean. Add cream/yogurt to serve.

To find out more about advertising in Wide Bay Seniors and online, call your local seniors team member, Rachel Loy on 1300 880 265 or get in touch at rachel.loy@seniorsnewspaper.com.au

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We Care 2 also provides Emergency Relief (free food), Counselling and free breakfasts for homeless

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Open to all Concession & Seniors card holders, self-funded retirees & anyone in need - become a member for $5 a year

...OR does it? Valentine’s Day is just one day, but it makes Feburary the month of love. Perhaps this is the month you add the extra onto ordinary BE THRIFTY AND THRIVE and do the little things NICKY NORMAN that can make such a difference to an everyday relationship all year long. appreciate and use the Indeed, we can all keep items. Some suggestions the fire burning in our can be pamper products, relationship without alcohol, favourite using a “Day” as the main cheeses and sweets. reason to indulge, so if ★TAKE A DRIVE you would like to show GRAB a picnic basket your appreciation for your filled with goodies and a one and only, here are blanket or fold-up chairs some less expensive and and drive to a special more personal ideas for location. Switch off from any day of the year. the world and wine and ★DANCE CLASS dine at a local park or THERE are local scenic lookout and enjoy classes available to learn your day together. how to salsa, samba or ★COOKING CLASS tango to name a few. LOOK at what cooking Ignite some passion and schools or restaurants fun and reconnect with have to offer in your area your partner, this could and cook a meal be a new experience. together. This then gives Some restaurants have you the opportunity to sit free learn to dance back and appreciate your classes available too. creation and each other, ★LOVE PACK over a drink and a chat. MAKE a list of some of ★GET ACTIVE your partner’s favourite It’s important to stay things and put together a healthy and exercise, so love pack that not only why not do it together? shows that you know Go for an early morning what they like but you bike ride, swim or take a know that they will walk at sunset.

Wide Bay

Monday, February 20, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au

let’s save

ern Play & t s e W t a e Gr al toUr stay MUsIC mber 2017. pte 17th-27th Se

Come join us on this great western play & stay music tour with 12 country singers. We take the music to the west on this tour.

Creating with love

$2200 pp

G&D ROSS Bus Charters

Phone 4129 7132 | Mobile 0427 297 132 www.ganddrossbuscharters.com

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including, bus, accommodation, breakfast, evening meal and entertainment. 10 different tour locations.

HOME COOKING CHRISTINE PERKIN way to impress, always a delight and not too heavy. Finish with a good coffee and some beautiful home-made chocolates.

PRAWN COCKTAILS

■ 12 fresh cooked prawns ■ Iceberg lettuce ■ 1 mango sliced – optional ■ 1 avocado sliced – optional ■ Lemon juice Cocktail sauce Make your own with 1 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons tomato sauce and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce. Just mix ingredients together and taste then adjust accordingly. Slice lettuce and place in serving dish add prawns, layer mango and avocado and squeeze lemon juice over salad then drizzle with dressing and serve.

OVEN-BAKED CHICKEN AND MUSHROOM RISOTTO

■ 50g unsalted butter ■ 1 large onion, finely chopped ■ 500g chicken mince ■ 2 cups (440g) arborio rice ■ 1 cup white wine ■ 1L liquid chicken stock

SILKY SMOOTH: Delicious Toblerone mousse.

■ 1/2 cup (50g) grated parmesan, plus extra to serve ■ 100g sliced mushrooms ■ Few sprigs of thyme ■ 3 slices chopped bacon ■ 1 cup rocket leaves ■ Olive oil, to drizzle ■ Salt and pepper to season Step 1 Preheat oven to 170°C and place a five-litre ovenproof dish in to heat. Step 2 Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat, add onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Add bacon, brown then add chicken and cook for 2–3 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook until starts to colour, then add the rice and cook, stirring for one minute. Add wine and stock and bring to boil, then add thyme. Pour everything into the preheated dish. Cover tightly with a lid or foil and place in the oven for 15 minutes. Remove and give everything a good stir, then cover again and return to the oven for a further 15 minutes.

Love Baking?

By this time all liquid should have been absorbed. If not, return to the oven uncovered for a further five minutes. Step 3 Remove and add parmesan, rocket and basil, and season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with extra parmesan and drizzle with olive oil.

TOBLERONE MOUSSE

■ 2 x 110g Toblerone chocolate (or milk chocolate if you prefer) melted ■ 2 cups of beaten cream ■ 2 eggs separated Melt chocolate, cool slightly, add egg yolks one at a time and mix, then add cream. Beat egg whites until stiff then fold though chocolate mix. Grab a piping bag or plastic bag and cut corner off so you can pipe into glasses. Chill overnight. Garnish with a raspberry or flaked chocolate.

Linking seniors with community information across Queensland 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday www.seniorsenquiryline.com.au

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THE ABILITY to cook is a lovable trait in a person, whether it’s home-made pasta or just making a really yummy piece of cheese on toast. There is quite simply no restaurant in the world that will light you up in the eyes of a significant other in the same way as a meal you’ve prepared yourself. With this in mind, I have put together a few ideas for a fail-safe homespun romantic meal! The “home made is always better” rule applies to most things in our romantic lives. I have designed a menu that will be truly special and simple with minimal time in the kitchen. The first thing to do is set the mood. Buy some nice wine or special drink, nip out into the garden and pick some fresh flowers or foliage, light the candles and turn on some soft music. Now get out your best glassware and crockery and set the table. You’re ready. Simple Prawn Cocktails are easy and can be made ahead of time. I like to use a glass for serving this dish or you can use a small bowl. Oven-baked Chicken and Mushroom Risotto is easy as it can cook while you’re having your entrée, just ensure all your preparation is done beforehand. If you have room for dessert, Toblerone Mousse is such an easy

Seniors 21

MEN’S UNTRY WO SLAND CO THE QUEEN

ON ASSOCIATI

The Perfect Gift for Christmas

What better treasured gift for someone special (who loves baking) than this fabulous reprint of the original 1959 QCWA Cookery Book? 180 pages of the same cherished Australian recipes, with many of the original homely hints, methods and comments. These ‘collector edition’ copies are available from Bundaberg News Mail front counter or phone 4690 9467 to arrange postal delivery.

JUST 36-38 38 Woondoomba St St, Bundab Bundaberg

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from the Recipes

59 original 19

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THE QUEENSLAND COUNTRY WOMEN’SASSOCIATION

22 Seniors Wide Bay

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, February 20, 2017

SW ITCH OFF TO #JOINTHEFUT UR E 8. 30 PM SAT UR DAY 25 M A RCH 2017 E A RTHHOUR .ORG. AU

puzzles

Monday, February 20, 2017 seniorsnews.com.au 1

Across 5/8 Who said “Money can’t buy you happiness but it does bring you a more pleasant form of misery”? (5,8) 9 Used in computing, what number system has a base of 8? (5) 10 Using linseed oil, pigments, rosin and pine flour, what did Frederick Walton invent in 1860? (8) 11 What is the capital of Belarus? (5) 14 What drilling tool is held in a brace? (3) 16 Which short-lived republic broke away from Nigeria 1967 to 1970? (6) 17 What is anti-aircraft fire also called? (3-3) 18 What is the abbreviation for trinitrotoluene? (1,1,1) 20 Formed in 1791, what was the Berlin SingAkademie? (5) 24 In what ornamental needlework are pieces of fabric attached to another? (8) 25 What is a promontory more commonly called? (5) 26 What is used for sharpening a writing quill? (8) 27 Which Chicago tower was the world’s tallest building from 1973 to 1996? (5)

8 9 10 11 12

17 18

24 25 26 27

SUDOKU

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

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

8 9

Down 1 What is a young salmon? (5) 2 What, striking on steel, produced an igniting spark in early guns? (5) 3 Which orchestral instrument is tuned an octave above the cello? (5) 4 Which lively 1960s dance shares a name with a Central-African people? (6) 6 What Japanese form of pinball is enjoyed in noisy parlours there? (8) 7 What bag is carried on a soldier’s or hiker’s back? (8) 12/13 Who won a Bafta in 1990 for her role in the film Dangerous Liaisons? (8,8) 14 What type of creature is a serotine? (3) 15 What is to make an intricate type of looped cotton lace using a hand shuttle? (3) 19 Which Scottish mathematician (John ___) invented logarithms? (6) 21 What is the flat bladelike projection at the end of the arm of an anchor? (5) 22 Reaching a length of 18m or more, what is the world’s largest invertebrate? (5) 23 How many eclipses, lunar and solar, are possible in a single year? (5)

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.

13 16

GK CROSSWORD

S E N D S

Across: 1. Aura 3. Lynchpin 9. Recants 10. Noise 11. Supernatural 14. Opt 16. Aloft 17. Eye 18. Police states 21. Among 22. Odorous 23. Badlyoff 24. Thus. Down: 1. Abrasion 2. Recap 4. Yes 5. Consultation 6. Primate 7. Need 8. Increasingly 12. Arose 13. Persists 15. Twofold 19. Tooth 20. Daub 22. Oaf.

BLACKOUT

ALPHAGRAMS: HATED, IGNORE, JOSTLED, KANGAROO, LIBERATES.

Solution opposite

QUICK CROSSWORD

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

T H R E W

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 23 Very Good 31 Excellent 39

DOUBLE CROSS

SUDOKU

5x5 A T O N E

H L

Down 1. Scratch (8) 2. Review (5) 4. Affirmative (3) 5. Conference (12) 6. Ape (7) 7. Require (4) 8. More and more (12) 12. Got up (5) 13. Perseveres (8) 15. Doubly (7) 19. Molar (5) 20. Smear (4) 22. Lout (3)

Across: 5/8 Spike Milligan, 9 Octal, 10 Linoleum, 11 Minsk, 14 Bit, 16 Biafra, 17 Ack-ack, 18 TNT, 20 Choir, 24 Appliqué, 25 Bluff, 26 Penknife, 27 Sears. Down: 1 Smolt, 2 Flint, 3 Viola, 4 Watusi, 6 Pachinko, 7 Knapsack, 12/13 Michelle Pfeiffer, 14 Bat, 15 Tat, 19 Napier, 21 Fluke, 22 Squid, 23 Seven.

411

WORD GO ROUND

SOLUTIONS

WORD GO ROUND

C U

acid acidly acrid acridly arid aridly auld card cardy chad chard child clad crud curd curdy daily dairy dial diarchy diary dray drily dual ducal duchy duly dural hard hardily hardly hardy hydra HYDRAULIC hydric idly idyl lady laid laird lard lardy laud lucid lurid raid yard

A R

I Y

DEATH REGION OLD JETS OAK ORGAN BLEARIEST

Note: more than one solution may be possible.

Across 1. Atmosphere (4) 3. Person vital to an operation (8) 9. Retracts (7) 10. Sound (5) 11. Paranormal (12) 14. Choose (3) 16. In the air (5) 17. Look at (3) 18. Totalitarian regimes (6,6) 21. In the midst of (5) 22. Strong-smelling (7) 23. In financial trouble (5-3) 24. As a result (4)

N E

20 21

O I

S H

L I C I T

A I

4/2

5x5

F 11

Seniors 23

F L A P S

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

Wide Bay

I D E A L I S T R S P I D E R

N I R H E M I P Y I E L E R E

D R A U G H T S K H E A T E D

U E S R I N U J Y O R A R N Q

S T E M S R A C O U S T I C S

T K K Q L H T A G E S I M W T

R E P L A C E E A U S T E R E

I C O H T X Y V V F P P N D T

O A T M E A L G C H E E T A H

U U P I Y B I T O J C E C W O

S N O W S T O R M C T E A M S

N Z U A C J N D P N A P O Y C

S C R E A M K C O N C E R T O

A S R Y M V U N S C L V T C P

T H I R S T P B E V E R A G E

BLACKOUT

Work out which squares need to be deleted to reveal a completed crossword. Solution opposite

DOUBLE CROSS

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

T R I O U S E A N P O T P O L M W S L A T E C A T L I O T E R G A C O M U H S P E C T T E E A M E N T R A M T E T H O S

S C U R E C A M N C P O N A C E O R T C O

B S E V L E R T A G P E A T H R I R M S T

24 Seniors Wide Bay

seniorsnews.com.au Monday, February 20, 2017

Get your copy today! Seniors Wide Bay 2017 promises to be an exciting year for our publication, and we look forward to bringing our readers 12 editions jam-packed with news, reviews and ideas to help make life as enjoyable as possible! We’d also like to thank our many distributors for their support in 2016. See below for a complete list of where to find your Seniors Newspaper in 2017, available around the 20th of every month. BUNDABERG

CRAIGNISH

•

• •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

ARGYLE GARDENS RETIREMENT VILLAGE BLOOMS: THE CHEMIST BROTHERS SPORTS CLUB BUNDABERG AND DISTRICT MIXED PROBUS CLUB BUNDABERG AND DISTRICT SENIOR CITIZENS ASSOCIATION BUNDABERG CENTRAL MEN’S SHED ASSOCIATION BUNDABERG GOLF CLUB BUNDABERG LAWN BOWLS CLUB BUNDABERG AND DISTRICT MEALS ON WHEELS BUNDABERG SERVICES CLUB BUNDABERG DISCOUNT DRUG STORE RSL CARE FAIRWAYS RETIREMENT COMMUNITY FRIENDLY SOCIETY PHARMACY BUNDABERG MALOUF PHARMACY PRICELINE PHARMACY BUNDABERG CHURCH PHARMACY CORAL COAST PLAZA PHARMACY CORAL COAST WEST BUNDABERG PHARMACY SOUTHSIDE CENTRAL NEWS SUGARLANDS GARDEN RETIREMENT VILLAGE SUNNYSIDE CROQUET CLUB INC. THE LAKES RETIREMENT VILLAGE UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE (U3A) CORAL COAST PHARMACY LIBERTY VILLAS

BARGARA • • • • •

BARGARA BOWLS CARLYLE GARDENS RETIREMENT VILLAGE PALM LAKE RESORT PHARMACY CENTRAL SANDHILLS SPORTS CLUB

BIGGENDEN • •

FOODWORKS BIGGENDEN NEWSAGENCY

BURNETT HEADS • • •

BURNETT HEADS OVER 50S SOCIAL CLUB INC BURNETT HEAD PHARMACIES BURNETT SENIOR CITIZENS ASSOCIATION

CRAIGNISH COUNTRY CLUB CRAIGNISH VILLAGE PHARMACY

CHILDERS • • • • •

CHILDERS NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE FOOTES PHARMACY FOREST VIEW AGED CARE FACILITY FRIENDLIES PHARMACY ISIS CLUB INC

GYMPIE • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

CENTRAL PARK MALL FRESHWATER VILLAS GOLDFIELDS FULLIFE PHARMACY GOLDFIELDS PLAZA GOOD PRICE PHARMACY GYMPIE BOWLS CLUB FRIENDLIES PHARMACY GYMPIE NATIONAL SENIORS INC GYMPIE PINES GOLF CLUB THE GYMPIE SENIOR CITIZENS CENTRE GYMPIE VIEW CLUB LIBRARY MALOUF PHARMACIES PRICELINE PHARMACY

HERVEY BAY • • • • • • • • •

DOMAIN RETIREMENT VILLAGE ELI WATERS SHOPPING CENTRE FRASER COAST CHRONICLE OFFICE HERVEY BAY BOAT CLUB AUSTRALIAN PENSIONERS AND SUPERANNUANTS FEDERATION MCWILLIAM`S PHARMACY THE FRIENDLIES DISCOUNT PHARMACY UNITED DISCOUNT CHEMIST WOOLWORTHS

MARYBOROUGH • • • • • • • • •

MARYBOROUGH SPORTS CLUB STATION ST SHOPPING CENTRE PRESCARE YARALLA PLACE MARYBOROUGH RSL MARYBOROUGH GOLF AND BOWLS CLUB MARYBOROUGH SENIOR CITIZENS CENTRE MARYBOROUGH SERVICES MEMORIAL BOWLS CLUB AMCAL PHARMACY RSL CARE CHELSEA RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

• • • • • • •

CHEMIST WAREHOUSE FAIR HAVEN RETIREMENT VILLAGE FRASER COAST CHRONICLE OFFICE FRASER COAST REGIONAL COUNCIL LIBRARY FRIENDLIES PHARMACY GOOD PRICE PHARMACY INFORMATION CENTRE

URRAWEEN • • • •

FAIRHAVEN RETIREMENT VILLAGE FRASER SHORES RETIREMENT VILLAGE GOLDEN SHORES STOCKLAND SHOPPING CENTRE

URANGAN PIALBA • • • • • • • • • •

CARERS QUEENSLAND HERVEY BAY GOLF CLUB HERVEY BAY PUBLIC LIBRARY HERVEY BAY RSL IGA FRASER SHORES SHOPPING CENTRE NOVA DISCOUNT PHARMACY PIALBA DISCOUNT DRUG STORE PIALBA PLACE SHOPPING CENTRE SCOOTERS & MOBILITY FRASER COAST SENIORS IN FOCUS

RAINBOW BEACH • • •

OVER 60S SHELL SERVO INFORMATION CENTRE RAINBOW BEACH SPORTS CLUB

SCARNESS • •

BEACHSIDE PHARMACY HERVEY BAY BOWLS CLUB

• • • • • •

WOODGATE • •

• • • • • • •

• • •

•

• • • • • • •

TORQUAY • • • •

HERVEY BAY & DISTRICT SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB OPTIMAL PHARMACY PLUS TORBAY LIFESTYLES AND CARE UMIMBIRRA RETIREMENT VILLAGE

WOODGATE BOWLS CLUB WOODGATE MEN’S SHED

OTHER LOCATIONS

TIN CAN BAY BARNACLES CAFÉ COOLOOLA COAST BOWLS CLUB COOLOOLA WATERS RETIREMENT RESORT MEALS ON WHEELS COOLOOLA PHARMACY TIN CAN BAY CRAFT CLUB TIN CAN BAY RSL SUB BRANCH TIN CAN BAY YACHT CLUB THE SANDS CENTRE PHARMACY TIN CAN BAY COUNTRY CLUB

OPTIMAL PHARMACY PLUS PARKLANDS RETIREMENT HAVEN SANCTUARY LAKES FAUNA RETREAT SUGAR COAST VILLAGE URANGAN BOWLS CLUB URANGAN MARINA PHARMACY

• • • • • • • •

ELLIOT HEADS: ELLIOT HEADS BOWLS CLUB KEPNOCK GROVE: CARINITY AGED CARE MOORE PARK: MOORE PARK BEACH BOWLS AND SPORTS CLUB AVOCA: STOCKLAND SUGARLAND SHOPPING TOWN BURRUM HEADS: BURRUM HEADS PHARMACY DUNDOWRAN: FRASER LAKES GOLF CLUB KAWUNGAN: KAWUNGAN CHEMART PHARMACY POINT VERNON: TERRY WHITE CHEMISTS TOOGOOM: TOOGOOM PHARMACY KYBONG: GYMPIE VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE GOOMBOORIAN: MATILDA SERVICE STATION (INFORMATION CENTRE), TINANA: FRIENDLIES PHARMACY GRANVILLE: PRESCARE GROUNDWATER LODGE SOUTH TINANA: LYCHEE DIVINE EAST TINANA: QUEENSLAND LIFESTYLE VILLAGE OVER 50S RESORT TIARO: TIARO PHARMACY

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Would you like to join our distribution list? Phone Christine on 07 5435 3214 to find out how. If you’d like to place an advertisement, contact Rachel Loy on 07 5435 3217. Got a story to submit? Get in touch with Bonnie Holmes on 07 4120 0422 or editor@seniorsnews.com.au