Rural roads to adventure PAGES 20-21 Aiming to stay active PAGE 8 Wednesday, 7 September 2022 SeniorsToday.com.au PAGE 3 PAGE 14 Help is at hand from U3A upStrummingastorm
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camecomingwasn’tsignedfast“WeattendedanAustraliaDaybreakdownatthefirestationin2006andupassupportmembers.Errolasupportmemberbeforebeafirefighterandin2011Ibeafirefighter.I’mnolongerafire fighter - I work in the background now. “That’s how it all started and it snow balled from there.”
More about the event on page 11
At your service
Age is no barrier to joining the Rural Fire Brigade and helping the communi ty according to Pat, 70, and Errol Noye, 78, of Turkey Beach. Both joined after they’d retired and not only have the pair been members of the Rural Fire Brigade for almost 20 years now but both, particular Errol who has been first officer, have been operational fire fighters for a large chunk of that time. “We sold our business in Bundaberg in 2004 and moved up here a couple of months later,” Pat explained.
Lessons learnt Lisa Curry, pictured with Leiza Blamires, was a guest speaker at the inaugural Rock hampton Mental Health Expo. “We’ve got to take the stigma away from mental health, talk openly about it, have the con versations, find the triggers, and find so lutions and resources for people who are struggling every day,” Lisa said.
Pat admitted that she hadn’t intend ed to become an active firefighter at first, joining as a support person before becoming brigade secretary and fire warden.However the need for a group to con duct backburns during the week when most people were working drove her to join Errol on the fireground at the age of 59.“With Errol it was a case of them needing fire fighters and then we found when we came to do hazard reduction burns, the best weather was normally during the week and a lot of our mem bers worked,” she explained.
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‘We
– OPEN NOW! · Blackwater – 12 September 2022 · Rolleston – 17 September 2022 · Sapphire –
willwillforeandproject,nettGladstoneRegionMayorMattBursaidduringthenextphaseofthetheroadmustbeexcavated,newroadlayersconstructedbetheasphaltingcanoccur.“Thesearesignificantworksthatcausetrafficdisruption,butweworkwiththecommunityto
Time to get back to the local pool
Enjoying the spring weather Spring has sprung - a time to spend a little more time in the gar den until it gets too warm and to enjoy the pools, beaches and wa terways.Ourgarden columnist Kevin has some tips for the garden while there are plenty of recipes to enjoy as well as suggestions of shows to see during the next few months. Regular travel contributors Kylie and Erle have been busy with sto ries on Dalby and Brisbane. And of course, this is a special time of year for those of us born before 1960 or even 1970! It’s se niors month in October with plen ty of activities planned across the region and across the state. My favourite initiative is the Big Roast lunch (we’ve included a few reci pes to help out if you want to take part). With so many of us suffer ing from isolation as we get older and retire (and as a result of all the lockdowns), this is a great initia tive to bring neighbours, friends and family together.There is noth ing better than a long table in the backyard with people you like to spend time with, breaking bread and enjoying a Sunday roast (just like we did as kids!). The other part of this paper that is particularly important to me this season is the health story on new Heart Foundation repre sentative and rocker Jon Stevensnot for Stevens himself but for his heart bypass story. Just after fin ishing the winter edition my hus band failed a heart-stress test and within two weeks had undergone open heart surgery. He had no real signs but accord ing to his doctors – a few more weeks or even possibly days and we wouldn’t have had him. It’s been a tough couple of months but the Big Guy is very much on the mend and we are all feeling veryEnjoylucky!your spring!
As the mercury rises, the thought of a refreshing dip at one of Central High lands’ seven aquatic centres is a wel come comfort on a hot day. With winter on the way out, this will soon be a reality for residents as pools in Blackwater, Capella, Emerald, Rolleston, Sapphire, Springsure and Tieri get set to reopen. Council’s General Manager Commu nities John McDougall said the com munity is fortunate to have access to such great aquatic facilities.
Tania EditorPhillips,
plan and communicate before works start,” Councillor Burnett said. “During this financial year, Coun cil will also construct a new sewer rising main in Toolooa Street to re place ageing infrastructure with roadworks staged around this fu ture project to avoid damage to the new asphalt road seal.” Cr Burnett said maintaining and improving our road network remains a top priority for“RoadsCouncil.are vital pieces of infra structure that make a crucial contri bution to the economic growth and development of our region,” he said. “This section of Toolooa Street services businesses and residential areas and provides access to other nearby services such as medical and educational“Strengtheningfacilities.this section of road will also offer a smoother travel experience for motorists.” progress
Gladstone Regional Council has completed the first stage of asphalt seal works along southbound lanes of Toolooa Street (between Derby St and Roberts St). This work is part of Council’s capi tal works program with the broader Toolooa Street (Derby St to Agnes St) Pavement Rehabilitation project to be delivered by Council’s road crew across several stages over the next 12 months. Council will progressively work towards laying a new asphalt road seal in both directions on the next section of Toolooa Street, from Agnes Street to Derby Street.
· Emerald,
‘Quality aquatic centres are so im portant in our climate, offering some thing for all ages – with swimming les sons from infants to adults, swimming clubs and our popular water slides and play areas,’ he said. ‘This also means mums and bubs classes can recom mence, seniors’ fitness sessions can start up again, and swimmers can par ticipate in their weekly squad sessions. are looking forward to seeing these facilities full of life again this coming summer season.’ dates Capella, Springsure TBC Aquatic centre opening can be found on council’s website. For any other queries, please call council on 1300 242 686.
Opening
for road to medical facilities The new section of road ready for marking. Telephone: 07 4863 5050 Website: SeniorsToday.com.au Editorial: Email: editorial@CQToday.com.au Advertising: Email: advertising@CQToday.com.au Classifieds: Phone: 1300 668 808 Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au EDITORIAL Tania Phillips Journalist E: tania.phillips@StarNewsGroup.com.au ADVERTISING Cindy Unwin Advertising Manager E: cindy.unwin@CQToday.com.au Sherrie Ashton Circulation Manager E: sherrie.ashton@CQToday.com.au Peter Lynch Advertising Sales Executive E: peter.lynch@CQToday.com.au Cheryl Altouvas Advertising Sales Executive E: cheryl.altouvas@TodayGladstone.com.au Louisa Kneller Advertising Sales Executive E: louisa.kneller@StarNewsGroup.com.au GENERAL MANAGER David Richardson E: david.richardson@CQToday.com.au DecemberDEADLINES2022 Edition Advertising Bookings: 12pm Thursday 10th November Copy Deadline: 5pm Thursday 17th November Distributed: Wednesday 7nd December Published by Central Queensland Media Pty Ltd ACN 642 029 070. Publisher Paul Thomas. All material is copyright to Central Queensland Media Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions please visit SeniorsToday.com.au/ terms-and-conditions/ TRIVIA page 5 IN PROFILE page 8 HEALTH pages 9, 15 HISTORY page 10 RECIPES page 12 PROPERTY AND FINANCE page 13 ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT pages 16-17 OUT AND ABOUT pages 20-21, 23 GARDENING page 22 ACTIVE OUTDOORS page 24CONTACTINSIDE US NEWS SENIORSTODAY.COM.AU
2 SENIORS TODAY SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022
hours
SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022 SENIORS TODAY 3
Ahead of Grandparents Day on 30 Oc tober the Queensland Government are funding an almost $1m “Time for Grandparents” scheme to support the state’s unsung heroes of unpaid child care.Seniors Minister Craig Crawford said one in every nine Queenslanders (more than 533,000 people) are unpaid carers. “Grandparents dominate the world of unpaid childcare,” Mr Crawford said. “One in every four carers is aged over 65, many providing informal childcare and some are primary carers of their grandchildren.“Manydoitout of good will and the love in their hearts.
Rockhampton U3A members are pro viding invaluable support for women and girls living in Papua New Guinea according to Group President Cheryl Wickes.Cheryl said the “Day for Girls” they hold each month to help out to create intimate kits are even more important at the moment with the country in turmoil due to elections. “Once a month, members gather to create intimate kits for women, liv ing in isolated villages in Papua New Guinea who have little or no access to essential personal items,” she said. “In late June, Val Gribble took a full bag of kits to PNG for distribu tion through the Girls Friendly Soci ety (GFS) which is a large worldwide organisation within the Anglican church.“Valworks in a support role to GFS in “ThePNG. Presidents of three different GFS areas, Popondetta, Port Moresby and Kokopo met with Val in Port Mo resby for three days, and during this time she trained them in the use of the kits so that they can distribute them in theirCherylareas.”said distribution is currently harder than usual at the moment.
“Grandparents – mostly baby boom ers - are the heart and soul of our com munities,’’ he said. “They are the unsung heroes who provide significant emotional support for family members, some also provide financial and practical assistance.
“Popondetta leaders will meet in September with some 700 girls are ex pected, and the training and distribu
Val is a frequent visitor to PNG, hav ing worked with the Anglican Church for many years. She returned from her recent trip with many thanks offered to Rockhampton ladies for creating the kits at their meetings on the 3rd Monday of each month.
12562801-ET36-22
Rockhampton Regional Council presents a Western Standard Production It’s EttaElla1954.Fitzgerald,Jamesand Eartha Kitt hit the big time with swinging jazz, powerful soul and cheeky kitsch. Melissa Western and her world-class band tell their stories and celebrate their music.
Cheryl said Val recently addressed the U3A Armchair Travel meet ing, held on the third Friday of each month, showing photos and sharing many memories of her visits to PNG over several decades.
PILBEAM THEATRE Monday 17 October at 11am Adult $20, Pensioner $18, Group 6+ $17 Free morning tea supplied by Brumby’s Allenstown / Gracemere / Parkhurst from 10am Tour supported by the Playing Queensland Fund, an initiative of the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.
“There is a huge interest in the kits and a great need, but getting them to these places is difficult and expensive.
12562515-AV36-22
tion will be offered to those who live in remote mountainous areas.
“We know that being a carer is not an easy“Andjob.that’s why in recognition of the contribution carers make, the Palaszc zuk government is investing $961,084 in 2022–23 in the Time for Grandpar ents“WeProgram.alsosupport the Queensland Carers Advisory Council who inform us on how we can continue to help carers acrossTimeQueensland.”forGrandparents co-ordinator
A local funeral home established 2016. We personalise and tailor funerals to celebrate the life of your loved one including your cultural preferences. We can also assist with Plaques, Headstones, Sureplan Funeral Bonds and Pre-arrangements. We also offer livestreaming of the funeral service for family and friends. Here to serve you all hours 7 days a week. Ph: 4973 2002 Cnr Pioneer Dr & Dennis St, Boyne Island 4680 CREMATIONS
Valkits.Gribble (left) with Judy Trinder, U3A Armchair Travel coordinator, at a recent meeting where Val took a large gathering through many fascinating photos of her visits to PNG.
Rhett Chapman said the program pro vides advice and support to unpaid car ers who have primary responsibility for raising their grandchildren.
Time for grandparents
University of Third Age steps up to help women in PNG
BOYNE TANNUM FUNERALS AND
The presidents of the Popondetta, Port Moresby and Kokopo GFS areas receiving training for use of kits. Day for Girls participant busy creating
U3A Day for Girls thanksVal for her ef forts to distribute the kits.”
“But it can also come at a personal cost of lower wellbeing, higher psy chological distress and poorer physical health.’’Thelatest 2021 census shows seniors are the bedrock of the nation’s unpaid givers – the child minders, the volun teers, the carers – where about five mil lion Australians aged over 15 do some form of unpaid support. Mr Crawford said the “Time for Grandparents” scheme was on top of more than $725 million in 2022-23 pro vided by the Palaszczuk Government for concessions and rebates for seniors and other Queenslanders to help ease cost of living pressures.
“Because of the turmoil and vio lence during the current elections and counting of votes in PNG, it is a dif ficult time for GFS members to meet together,” she said. “Kokopo members met at the end of July and the kits allocated to them were“Membersdistributed.inPort Moresby live in a very at risk area so no gatherings have taken place at this time.
“Time for Grandparents offers a Queensland wide confidential tele phone information service that pro vides information, support and refer rals to grandparents on 1300 135 500,’’ Mr Chapman said. “Time for Grandparents also runs ac tivities across the state to give children of eligible grandfamilies some fun and respite and down time for grandpar ents.”
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Clean up Australia has now launched
· Art
Litter collection will run from 8am to 10am at various designated areas fol lowed by a celebratory barbeque until midday.Participants will receive a clean-up kit, including bags for recycling and generalParticipantswaste. are advised to being their own sun safety protection and ap propriate footwear. For more information check out the official Great Northern Clean Up web site, or our facebook event.
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Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett said the Rio Tinto and QAL Martin Hanson Memorial Art Awards remain one of Queensland’s most prestigious regional art events. “Each year the quality of submis sions increases and I’m expecting the same again this year,” Councillor Bur nett“Withsaid. a generous prize pool of more than $40,000 on offer, now is the perfect time for artists and creatives to plan and create their work ahead of the call for entries taking place in early October.”CrBurnett said Karina Devine, Di rector of Warwick Art Gallery for the past 16 years, will adjudicate the 47th Rio Tinto & QAL Martin Hanson Me morial Art Awards. “Karina has 25 years of experience as an art educator and gallery man ager working in regional Queensland and has university qualifications inVi sual Arts, Education and Media Stud ies,” Cr Burnett said. “She is committed to contribut ing to the growth of regional com munities by embracing the lifestyle of Queensland country towns and striv ing to achieve equity and sustainabil ity for rural Queensland through the arts.“I have no doubt Karina will be impressed with the artistic talent on display at the 47th Rio Tinto and QAL Martin Hanson Memorial Art Awards and I know myself and the GRAGM team are looking forward to her arrival in Awards.andinformationforVisitGladstone.”gragm.qld.gov.au/art-awardsConditionsofEntryandfurtheraboutThe47thRioTintoQALMartinHansonMemorialArt submissions 10am4pm, Tuesday to Friday, 4-7 October 2022 and 10am-1pm, Saturday, 8 Oc tober Opens – 10am, Saturday 22 October 2022 Floor Talk – 10.30am, Satur day 22 October 2022 Illustrated Lecture – 1pm, Saturday 22 October 2022 and Awards Presen – 6.30pm, Saturday 22 Octo ber 2022 People’s Choice Awards – opens 10am, Monday, 24 October 2022 Awards Artist Talks – to be an nounced Exhibition Closes – 2pm, Saturday, 28 January 2023 Collection of Works – 10am-4pm, Monday to Friday, 30 January to 3 February 2023 & 10am 1pm, Satur day, 4 February 2023.
Artists and creatives are being encour aged to begin brainstorming their en
· Be solely or jointly liable for the pay ment of Council rates and charges levied on that property
· QAL
Gladstone Region ratepayers who have recently become eligible for the pen sion are encouraged to apply for Glad stone Regional Council’s 2022/23 Pen sionerThisConcession.providesa maximum conces sion of $310 for eligible pensioners. In addition to the Queensland Govern ment providing a maximum subsidy of $200 per annum for eligible pensioners and the State Emergency Management Levy provides a 20 per cent rebate on the Fire Levy. To be eligible, a person must hold one of the following conces sion cards:
tation
· Be the owner or life tenant of a prop erty in the Gladstone Region, which is his/her principal place of residence
· Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold And:Card.
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Eyes on the prize
TENTBOXERS by Kairen Kerr, winner of the Overall Award at last year’s 46th Rio Tinto & QAL Martin Hanson Memorial Art Awards.
The Great Northern Clean Up will re place council’s Clean Up Australia Day event and will be annually held in Sep tember for Central Highlanders.
Registration begins at 8am at the western entrance of the Emerald Bo tanic Gardens (next to McIndoe Park).
2022 · Exhibition
(OctoberentrantsbercallGalleryearlyaheadMartintryideasforthe47thRioTintoandQALHansonMemorialArtAwardsofthesubmissionperiodinOctober.GladstoneRegionalArtandMuseum(GRAGM)willforentriesfromTuesday4OctountilSaturday8Octobertoallowtodelivertheirwork.Submissiontimesare10am-4pm4-7)and10am-1pm(8Oc tober).Entrysectionsinclude:•Easel Works•WorksonPaper•ThreeDi mensionalandFibreWorks•Digital Works.
· Official Opening
Voting
· Queensland Pensioner Concession Card (issued by Centrelink or Depart ment ofVeterans’ Affairs) OR
· Judge’s
Time for spring cleaning
· The subject property must be an ap proved dwelling. To apply for Gladstone Regional Council’s Pensioner Concession, or to update details if already eligible, visit www.gladsone.qld.gov.au/rates or call 4970 0700.
The Great Northern Clean Up to ac commodate communities in the hotter regions!Central Highlands Regional Council is proud to join the new event on Sun day 11 September 2022 in Emerald. Just like in the past, the council will host a family fun day of litter collection, followed by a free sausage sizzle and ac tivities.“Itwas unfortunate we had to post pone Clean Up Australia Day back in March because of COVID-19, but keep ing our community healthy is our top priority,” Mayor Kerry Hayes said “And now that there is an option to participate in September, we can en joy the great springtime weather as we clean up.”
4 SENIORS TODAY SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022
Pensioner relief on rates
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Key Dates 2022 · Calling for
Scenes from clean-ups past.
“We sold our business in Bundaberg in 2004 and moved up here a couple of months later,” Pat explained.
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“I’m still listed as a firefighter but I hurt my back a few years ago and it lim its me these days,” she said. “If they get stuck I’d go to a hazard reduction burn now but I wouldn’t go to a wildfire again, it’s just not safe. We have an operational support unit and I was one of the first, with another lady, to man that. Its an refurbished ambu lance and we have an office internally with computers and radios and access to maps. At the back we have another TV and that’s where the guys can be debriefed and they can bring up maps to show the guys on the ground. We are in radio contact. I haven’t done that for a little while – the past couple of times I’ve been in Incident Control Centre.” She said there were plenty of roles for anyone wanting to join in and help no matter how active they were.
“I’m 70 now and I’d still be on the ground if I hadn’t hurt my back – I can tell you that now because I absolutely loved it. Hubby is still there – he’s 78 in November and he’s still on the fire ground. When they had the big fires in NSW a couple of years back he did three deployments down to NSW.”
The Turkey Beach brigade has 37 members including 17 active firefight ers and Pat said it was great to be part of the “It’steam.agood little brigade, we are all good mates and we all work together well -it’s more like a family,” she said. “It definitely keeps us busy now. It certainly keeps us out of trouble and off theShestreets.”saidshe would recommend it to other“Giveretirees.itago, that’s what I would say just give it go!”
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balledfightercamecomingwasn’tsignedfast“WeattendedanAustraliaDaybreakdownatthefirestationin2006andupassupportmembers.Errolasupportmemberbeforebeafirefighterandin2011Ibeafirefighter.I’mnolongerafire–Iworkinthebackgroundnow.“That’showitallstartedanditsnowfromthere.”Patadmittedthatshehadn’tintendedtobecomeanactivefirefighteratfirst,joiningasasupportpersonbeforebecomingbrigadesecretaryandfirewarden.HowevertheneedforagrouptoconductbackburnsduringtheweekwhenmostpeoplewereworkingdrovehertojoinErrolonthefiregroundattheageof59.“WithErrolitwasacaseofthemneedingfirefightersandthenwefoundwhenwecametodohazardreductionburns,thebestweatherwasnormallyduringtheweekandalotofourmembersworked,”sheexplained.“TheywerehavingtroublegettingcrewsoIorganisedanotherthreeladiesandwejoinedup,justtodohazardreductionburnsduringtheweekbutfromthereIendedupgoingtoacoupleofwildfiresandthingslikethatandjustfellinloveit.“Thereisanawfullotofcomradariebetweenbrigadesonthefiregroundandthat’swhatIloved,Ireallylovedit.I’vemadealotofgoodfriendsbydoingthat.Itwasgood.”BackproblemssawPatretirefrom the fire ground but she is still an inte gral part of the brigade.
Errol and Pat in action out on the fire ground.
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Answers: 1. Spanish 2. Two, Darwin and Adelaide 3. Mt Panorama 4. Four 5. Optometry 6.Who’s there? 7. 50 years 8. Four 9. 14.13.12.11.10.AntarcticaWhiteUncleBerlinJaguarDog,specifically a Spaniel 15. Kidneys 16. Female 17. Gently down the stream Trivia Rockhampton Regional Council is reminding residents that they can lodge a request for maintenance, or report an issue, anywhere at any time from their mobile phones. Infrastructure Councillor Ellen Smith said while our crews are kept busy maintaining roads and foot paths, especially after recent rain fall, it is often our residents who are best placed to inform Council of areas that need attention. Reporting an issue to Council is easy with the use of a mobile phone. Simply head to Council’s website, and lodge a request using the‘Access eServices’ tab.
By Allan Blackburn In what language does “playa” mean 2.“beach”?Howmany Australian capital cities use Central Standard Time? On the slopes of what “mountain” does the Bathurst 1000 take place? How many ropes are there on each side of a standard boxing ring? What kind of service does Laubman and Pank offer? What is the expected response to the opening of a“knock, knock” joke? What anniversary of their opening did McDonalds Australia celebrate in 8.2021?Howmany contestants begin each ep isode of the ABC show Hard Quiz? On what continent are the Queen Maud Mountains? What colour balls were used in the Tokyo Olympic Table Tennis? What relationship is cartoon charac ter Donald Duck to Huey, Dewey and 12.Louie?What city is the capital of Germany? What British car had a model called 14.E-Type?Whattype of animal can be a Cava lier King Charles? What human organ cleanses the 16.blood?What is the usual sex of someone us ing Ms as their title? 17. What is the next line of the song that begins,“Row, row, row your boat”?
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SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022 SENIORS TODAY 5 12534853-JC09-22BARRY O’ROURKE MP MEMBER FOR ROCKHAMPTON rockhampton@parliament.qld.gov.au0749942100BarryORourkeMP Advertisement 12486466-JW18-21 Electorate Office Level 1, 192 Quay Street (cnr Denham Street) Rockhampton, Monday - Friday 9.00am - 4.30pm Authorised by Mr B O’Rourke 192 Quay Street, Rockhampton ANTRUSTEDEXPERIENCED,LOCAL. 12512038-HC40-21
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Age no barrier for firies Pat and Errol
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By Tania Phillips Age is no barrier to joining the Rural Fire Brigade and helping the communi ty according to Pat, 70, and Errol Noye, 78, of Turkey Beach. Both joined after they’d retired and not only have the pair been members of the Rural Fire Brigade for almost 20 years now but both, particular Errol who has been first officer, have been operational fire fighters for a large chunk of that time.
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· 2 tbsp wholegrain mustard 1 tbsp fresh tarragon leaves, finely chopped, + extra, to serve · 2 red onions, cut into wedges 650g Kent pumpkin, cut into 6cm wedges 800g sebago potatoes, cut into wedges Steamed green beans and · sugar snaps, pre-made gravy, to serve Roast beef anyone?
“Imagine gathering Queensland households near and far with people of all ages to sit down to a big meal, recon necting after a long week. The wonder ful thing about food is that it has the ability to surpass physical and language barriers, allowing us to share our stories of life, culture, and creativity. “Making the Sunday roast perfect opportunity to assist in socially connecting people.
Ingredients
“If you’re out near Winton join in by celebrating Seniors Month with a twocourse lunch at the iconic beer garden at the North Gregory Hotel followed by a cent sale, thanks to the Winton Shire Council.“Fraser Coast sure knows how to put on a full calendar of events with the Great Senior Bite, Seniors Morning Teas, expo and information days, con certs, talent shows and a 20th Birthday Celebration for Probus.
6 SENIORS TODAY SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022
2. Place beef in pan and rub top side of beef with mustard mixture. Place beef in oven and reduce heat immediately to 200°C (180°C fan-forced). Roast for 45-60 minutes (for medium-rare to medium), or until cooked to your liking, covering top of roast with foil if over-browning. Remove from oven, cover loosely with foil and rest for 10 minutes.
“This is just a small sample of what will be on offer this year.”
While there are plenty of events or ganised by council areas and other groups, COTA have come up with an event that seniors and their friends and family can plan themselves.
TIPS 1. Blade roast, sirloin or scotch fillet roast would also work well.
on Saturday 1 October, the United Nations International Day of Older Persons Queensland’s Seniors Month will include National Grandpar ents Day, on 30 October before ending on 31 October 2022. “Our continued theme of Social Con nections remains incredibly relevant as these connections are essential at any age.” said COTA Queensland’s Seniors Month Coordinator Lisa Hodgkinson. “Even with the uncertainty of the COVID pandemic, older Queenslanders have found diverse ways to build and maintain social connections.” “This year we are proud to announce that the Queensland Government is supporting 108 events and activities, sharing in “Central$100,000.”Queensland puts on a great spread of events. From the Bonding Baralaba Bus Tour to the Art of Good food: A recipe for Connection in Bund aberg.“Rockhampton will socially connect their community with Generations in Faith, and loads o0f come and try games, fitness classes and more thanks to the Rockhampton Seniors Citizens. “Cloncurry is hosting a great morn ing tea at the Community Precinct on the fifth of October, and Livingstone Shire is going European with their Vive la France Day and Connecting Seniors across their community.
“Thinking of activities that con nect us, this year we are calling for all Queenslanders to assist in combatting social isolation and loneliness, one fork at a time by joining together to create Queensland’s Largest Sunday Roast on Sunday 16 October,” Lisa explained.
3. Arrange vegetables in separate large baking tray lined with baking paper. Drizzle with remaining oil, season and roast with beef for one hour until golden and crisp.
METHOD
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NEWS SENIORSTODAY.COM.AU Get connected this month
4. Thinly slice beef and serve with roast ed vegetables, steamed greens, gravy and extra tarragon, if desired.
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MUSTARD AND TARRAGON ROAST BEEF
Serves: 6 Prep time: 30 minutes Cook time: 60 minutes
2. Test roast for doneness using a meat thermometer - test in the centre of the beef, 60°C for medium rare.
· 1.2kg beef topside roast · ¼ cup (60ml) olive oil
1. Preheat oven to 240°C (220°C fanforced). Lightly spray a roasting pan with oil. Combine 1 tbsp oil, mustard and garlic in a small bowl. Season.
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Queensland is gearing up to enjoy the second annual Queensland Seniors Month. From humble beginnings sixtytwo years ago, this statewide celebra tion has outgrown its nine-day week and has become a month-long event. Connecting Queenslanders through inclusive events and activities, Seniors Month will bring people of all ages, cultures, and abilities together within their community, uniting them through shared interests and passions. It also provides a great opportunity to discov er new programs, activities, and sup portBeginningservices.
“Did you know that one in three se niors and one in two teenagers have re ported feeling lonely? “Or that 1 in 3 seniors live alone and are at increased risk for social isolation and/or“Thereloneliness?areover880,000 people aged 65+ and more than 686,000 teenagers in Queensland? That’s a lot of people who may be feeling lonely and socially dis connected.“Feeling socially connected makes us feel good, provides great health ben efits, and can improve our quality of life. Can you imagine all the stories we could share together? “Best of all you can host your Sunday Roast any way you like. It could be at home with family and friends, at your local park with your community, or at a participating restaurant.
“The only way for us to know if we are making an impact to is measure your interest and participation. “
3. Resting the meat will ensure it remains tender and moist when carving.
To find out more about Seniors Month, Queensland’s Largest Sunday Roast and to find events near you, visit www.qldseniorsmonth.org.au or phone 1300 738 348 (within Queensland) or 07 3316 2999 interstate.
SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022 SENIORS TODAY 7 You matter Your locally trusted community service provider for over 45 years. www.catholiccarecq.com Call 1300 523 985 When it comes to maintaining your independence, we are passionate about providing you the support you need so that you can focus on what’s really important in your life. We can help you: Professionally manage your package & funds. Provide transport & social support services Provide in-home services Arrange allied health referrals. Get better connected with your community Call our team to find out more. 12562516-SN36-22 SENIORSTODAY.COM.AU NEWS
5. Enhance opportunities for older Queenslanders to continue to learn through community education, life long learning, and digital literacy. To stay connected with what’s on this year visit the Queensland Seniors Month website often for news and up dates, and to register and find events nearGetyou.social and follow Queensland Seniors Month on facebook, twitter and Instagram. To find out about information and services for seniors, visit www.qld.gov. au/seniorsWevalue the contribution older peo ple have made – whether as volunteers or in the workforce, community leaders or carers, grandparents, or advocates. So, visit and enjoy catching up at this year’s 2022 Seniors Month.
2. Create opportunities for older SeniorspateQueenslanderstocontinuetoparticiinactivitiesbeyondQueenslandMonth.
Seniors Month provides opportuni ties to promote positive community attitudes towards older people and ageing, facilitate community partici pation, and enhance community con nections, aligning with the Queensland Government’s and Council on the Ageing (COTA) Queensland’s vision of building Age-friendly communities in Queensland.
Catching up for a cuppa. Rockhampton MP Barry O’Rourke catches up with Nell Healy for a chat.
By Barry O’Rourke, Rockhampton MP This year celebrations for Seniors Month will be held from 1- 31 October 2022, with the theme of Social Connec tions.During the month people of all ages, cultures, and abilities will connect through inclusive events and activities, celebrating the important and essential roles older people play in our commu nities. In short, it’s going to be a con nectBeginningfest! on the United Nations In ternational Day of Older Persons (1 Oc tober) and including the celebration of National Grandparents Day on Sunday 30 October 2022.
Ready for Seniors Month
1. Connect older Queenslanders to inclusive events and activities by producing culturally inclusive, mul tigenerational or lifestyle events/ activities for Queenslanders in their communities.
3. Challengeageistattitudesandreframetheconversationaroundageing.
4. Enable older Queenslanders to live physicalactiveandhealthyliveswithimprovedandmentalwellbeing.
The five objectives of Queensland Seniors Month 2022 are:
Lunch for Emerald seniors
Banana Shire Mayor Nev Ferrier may be over 60 but that doesn’t mean he is slowing down anytime soon – and nei ther are many of his older constituents.
So what are his favourite things about being “Supposedlyolder?wisdom,” he said with a chuckle. Also spending time with my grandkids and family and all of the wonderful memories we have made.”
“No as long as I’m healthy, you have plenty of time to slow down when you cant work,” he laughed.
“I’m always pleased by the lively turnout, the entertainment, food, and of course, the awards ceremony.” Free buses to and from the event will be provided in Duaringa, Dingo, Bluff, Blackwater, Comet,Yamala, Em erald, Springsure, Rolleston and the Gemfields.Forthose who can’t attend the lun cheon, registration for hand-delivered gift boxes will also take place in the week following the luncheon.
Seniors, caregivers, family mem bers and friends can register for the luncheon until from Friday 23 Sep tember by calling 1300 242 686. Regis tration for the lunch, bus, or gift box is essential.Central Highlands community members aged 55 and over are eligible to participate. Carers are also wel come to join and support the commu nity members attending. Bookings are required for all events. Check out the official Facebook event for more information.
“I have been the president of the Wowan/ Dululu Multipurpose Centre for nearly 10 years now. The centre looks after about 100 old age people from around the area. The centre is run by a volunteer committee and the volunteer group own the build ing. The centre provides cleaning and house hold chores, buys food, medical services with doctor visits and holds functions like dinners and cards each week.”Banana Shire offers all sorts of activi ties and events for their older popula tion all year round. “Banana Shire Council is one of the most generous councils when it comes to rate concessions with our retirement villages,” the mayor said. “We not only provide the normal rate rebate for pensioners and retire ment homes, but we also offer conces sions on water and sewerage charges to the retirement villages operating in the Shire.“We have a lot of committees that are run by Seniors, there is Rotary, the Li ons Club, the Progress Society, Histori cal Society and much more. “There are plenty of committees for seniors in the Banana Shire and we en joy having their input, experience and enthusiasm.”Assomeone over 60 how important does the mayor think it is to stay active and involved in the community? “My word, I think it is very important to stay active in the community,” he said.“It keeps you up to date with every thing that is going on.”
“For example, all of ourVisitor Infor mation Centres are run by volunteers and most of them are over 60.
“Having grandkids is the most won derful thing, a real highlight of my life,” heNevadmitted.became a councillor of Banana Shire back in 2004 after spending 30 years running his own transport com pany. He sold the business and bought a pub in Dululu and became the local publican. “Being a publican is a bit like being a counsellor, you hear everyone’s troubles,” Nev said. The constant complaints prompted Nev to enter local politics. “Everybody was coming in and whingeing about everything to me, but mainly about the roads, which pushed me to stand for Council. I wanted to fix the roads.”
“Seniors play a very important role in the Banana Shire,” Mayor Nev ex plained.“They make up around 70 per cent of all of our volunteers in our region and provide significant services in this role.
“Seniors month is a great oppor tunity for Queenslanders of all gen erations to connect and celebrate the contributions of seniors to the state,’ Communities General Manager John McDougall said. He said a variety of events and ac tivities would be held throughout the month across the Central Highlands, including at council libraries.
“I have got a small family farm still, so I like to muck around with cattle and just sit on the tractor, ploughing and smelling fresh soil turnover is a won derful thing. You can just sit there for hours and think about things it’s just like driving a truck, you’re there but your mind is always thinking. You’re by yourself, it’s that peaceful spot,” saidSoNev.ishe going to slow down or retire?
The most anticipated event is the Seniors Luncheon. This year, the lunch will be held on 5 October at the Capella Cultural Centre from 10am to 2pm.“The luncheon is one of my favou rite events of the year,” Mayor Kerry Hayes said. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to con nect with those who have the most life experience in the Central Highlands.
Banana Shire Mayor Nev Ferrier and his only grandaughter.
Central Highlands preparing for all the fun of the annual seniors lunch.
Registrations are now open for the an nual Central Highlands Council Se niors Lunch in Capella.
Staying active key for Nev
Mayor Nev has five grandchildren –four boys and a girl.
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From building better roads, to nego tiating with new renewable industries and liaising with key government fig ureheads, Nev has never been busier, but he can still manage some downtime when he gets the chance.
Rick led an active life, enjoying his fishing, sports and gardening. But when he was diagnosed with a seri ous illness, it was time for a change of pace and new hobbies. Rick took up knitting, making colourful beanies and scarves, many of which he donates to local“Itcharities.keepsme busy and I get enjoy ment out of creating something useful’ RickOftensaid.life throws curveballs and changes the direction that people thought they would travel in. The im portance of remaining positive, tack ling new possibilities and finding pas times to maintain mental and physical wellbeing form part of adjusting to a life that’s changed its course. Even aging can be challenging, adapting to a slower pace, reduced mobility, a decline in social interaction and often a complete change in life style. Everyone needs a reason to get up in the morning – make every min ute of your day count.
“Stay connected to others – if you don’t have family or friends nearby, reach out; there are people who would love to connect with you.
“From volunteer visits and a walking buddy to someone to help you in the garden, our team is dedicated to mak ing life in your own home better.”
The Positive Psychology Institute defines positive aging as “The process of maintaining a positive attitude, feel ing good about yourself, keeping fit and healthy, and engaging fully in life as you Accordingage”. to Suncare a positive at titude improves physical and mental health.“You may have read an old favourite, Pollyanna by Eleanor H Porter? The little girl told her aunt “Just breathing isn’t living!”,” a Suncare staff member said.“Find the time to exercise, even for 20 minutes a day and preferably out doors. Maybe it’s some light garden ing or chair yoga (please proceed with medical guidance if in doubt). Exercise your brain too – do a crossword puzzle or Sudoku challenge. Play Scrabble or Solitaire. Take up painting or sewing, join an activities group for the elderly.
Crafty response to ill turn
SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022 SENIORS TODAY 9 12555589-AV36-22 SENIORSTODAY.COM.AU HEALTH AND WELLBEING
“Whatever it is you do, stay busy and stay positive. And ask for help. You won’t be able to do everything you used to and there’s no shame in asking for some assistance. Enjoy living! “If you or your family member is considering in-home care as part of an aging plan, contact Suncare on 1800 786 227 or visit suncare.org.au to see how we can best assist you.
Society members experience the Victor S Jones ‘swinging bridge’ on a trip to Mt Morgan. Private Jones was the first Australian soldier to be killed on foreign soil, 1 January 1900.
“We try to collect as much informa tion as we can from people who have photographs or records or things like that – very often its when they are mov ing house or when they have to clean up a house and they always find these old treasures,” Peter said. “We say look send them our way we can make use of them or we will find a good home for them at the relevant place.We collect photographs and doc uments -we’re not a museum so we try not to collect artefacts. We don’t had space for things like that and these days we say if you can digitize – if we can get it on to a computer that’s what we are after.”
By Tania Phillips Capricorn Coast Historical Society has opened up both the past and present to long-time member Peter Cook. The group not only investigates the past through documents and the in ternet but also goes on tours around the region as they look back at what has happened in the area in past while making friends in the now.
“We moved into the Yeppoon area in 1973 – close to 50 years now. We moved out of the area to Rockhampton but we still maintain the links to Yeppoon – we have family down there.”
“It is one of those things you get a general interest in later in life – its usual ly two or three years too late,” Peter said. “You lose all the older generation that you should have been talking to a few years earlier while they were still with us. Oral history is so important –the people who were there, the people who saw these things. I was a little bit post war but you still talk to people who remember war time activities in the area and what the place was like when the Americans were buzzing around here. There was a very large American encampment here during the World War II. They were everywhere.” History is worth preserving which is the main aim of the group.
Coast magical history tours
CCHS author Norma Hempenstall launching her book ‘Beersheba and Beyond’ with Emu Park RSL representative, Barry Vains. CCHS tour to see the remains of dredge ‘Archer’ in Fitzroy
Peter Cook during a quiet period at the Society’s book stall in the local shopping centre.
“Like most people in the region, he had come to the area, liked it and stayed,” he laughed.
For Peter Cook is has opened up the area to him, giving him a chance to write booklets and discover just what was in Yeppoon and surrounds before he arrived in the area. It’s been a labor of love for Peter – one that stretches back well-over a decade now.
HistoricalRiver. Society trip to Camp Cockscomb veteran’s retreat.
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He said he had become more inter ested in history as he’d got older.
Historical Society members on an excursion to Mt Chalmers learning the history of the Railway Station house from Mt Chalmers historian Sue Hutchinson. CCHS member Peter Cook launching the book ‘Yeppoon a Portrait Past and Present Book Two’ with other CCHS members and newsagency owner.
Peter said he still enjoys the trips which allow the club members to trav el around the region and learn about local regions and landmarks. “At the moment we are planning one to Mt Morgan,” he said of the popular part of “TheCCHS.tripsare one way to indicate to people the importance of the history of each of the little local areas around the place. Another trip we did about 10 years back now was over to Curtis Island – there is a lot of history asso ciated with the Island going back to 1883 when the Countess Russell was in quarantine there for two weeks. We think about quarantine these days with all the covid stuff and these people had come out from England and the first port of call is Curtis Island – the ship was quarantined for two wees and had plague onboard. They had lost a lot of people and they lost more people when they were in quarantine there for two weeks with no facilities what so ever there. That is sort of history you can pic up on these local areas as you goPeteraround.”said
“At this stage I’ve been involved in this historical society for about 14 years I think,” he explained. “I got involved through one of the trips they had organised.”
he wasn’t really local to the area.
SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022 SENIORS TODAY 11 DML David Mills Lawyers The right advice the first time 4922 6388 Protecting your interests Because we care when the (un)expected happens. Property, Purchase & Sale; Wills & EPOAs. Probate & Estate Administration, Executor Advice, Criminal & Traffic Matters. 12562329-SN36-22 More than just a meal A cost-effective meal solution No waiting lists 4928 0540 12546099-JW22-22 SENIORSTODAY.COM.AU NEWS Expo starts conversation
The event is one of a series of Cen tral Queensland Co-Design Collective initiatives funded by a grant from the Queensland Government’s Tackling Regional Adversity Through Integrated Care program and brought together the mental health advocacy and support organisations from throughout the re gion dedicated to improving people’s mental wellbeing and helping to reduce incidents of self-harm and suicide.
Guest speakers at the Rockhampton Mental Health Expo included national sporting legend, author, media pre senter, and health and fitness ambassa dor Lisa Curry, Jadiael Tekii, founder of men’s wellbeing charity Project Blokes; Well Man founder and mental health advocate, Grant Westthorp; and youth psychologist, Christian Miesch.
Forty mental health advocacy and sup port organisations from the Capricor nia region have come together as part of the Rockhampton Mental Health Expo held in August.
The collective was devised by Carin ity Education Rockhampton, partner ing with local mental health advocacy groups and support services.
“There are many, many businesses and people in our Community who believed in the Project and their help has been and still is invaluable. We can never do enough to repay these donors for their trust and loyalty.
“However, the journey is still to be completed. Our members have been wonderful, helping wherever they can to get things done when funding al lows.”Jim said he has recorded (in pho tos) each step of the journey from the land clearing to where they are today, the album is getting to be quite large.
“If you would like to help us com plete our Project, please have another look at what is currently required and see if anything on the list is an item you would consider donating,” he said.
Jadiael Tekii from men’s wellbeing charity Project Blokes shared his moving story at the Rockhampton Mental Health Expo.
When the Rockhampton Men’s Shed started their journey for a new per manent home four years ago, there were people who thought the Project was “pie in the sky” and would never succeed, according to president Jim Lawlor.Jimsaid the group now has three sheds and are looking for new mem bers both men and women.
The shed is open Monday to Thurs days 8am through noon, is situated on Darumbal Road, CQ University Campus (enter from Norman Road), contact them on 0497 221 121 or roc kymensshed@gmail.com.CurrentlytheRockhampton Men’s Shed is seeking donations for any of the following: Timber studs, Panelling to cover the studs, Pink Batts, Stove with a large oven, large TV and shelf for the Community Centre, Wooden flooring, Disabled Toilet suite (for the Community Centre), Ordinary Toilet suite (for the Com munity Centre) and books to re-estab lish our Library (in good condition)
Progress: Donations welcome as sheds move forward
“The third shed is our Community Centre and will house a lounge area, small stage and piano, TV and library as well as a kitchenette for snacks. Jim said it has been a long and winding road to get to this point.
“Admittedly there were many set backs to get to where the project is today but the end result is the benefit the Rockhampton Community will gain from having a place to come and relax and perhaps in some small way ease the burden that some members of the Community suffer from social isolation,” he said.
The Rockhampton Mental Health Expo was an initiative of the Central Queensland Co-Design Collective, es tablished to educate the community about the importance of good mental health.Debra Fitzgerald is the Regional Co ordinator of Central Queensland CoDe sign Collective partner and mental health and suicide prevention charity, selectability.Shesaidthe mental health expo gave like-minded organisations the chance to network and “develop partnerships to benefit consumers, carers and the community”.“Weaimto reduce the stigma many people with mental health challenges experience and promote engagement in clinical services and professional supports,” Debra said.
“As Mother Teresa teaches us, ‘It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into giving. “Our young people, their families and wider community are all interconnect ed. The Rockhampton Mental Health Expo brought together our community for a purpose that affects each and every one of us in one way or another.”
“Shed number one – the Men’s Shed is fully functional and earning resources to keep our shed running,” he“Thesaid.second shed is being fitted out to be client friendly when the hub is re quired. It also contains an area where training can be carried out when need ed, a small gym, toilet and shower, first aid room, office and store rooms.
Mental health is not something anyone should have to face alone, ever,” said Carinity Education Rockhampton Prin cipal, Lyn Harland.
“In my role I witness the impacts of mental health on our students, their families and carers and my staff daily.
12 SENIORS TODAY SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022 countryk tchensrecipes Empowering women through education and health is a priority for the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA). The QCWA Country Kitchens program, funded by the Queensland Government through Health and Wellbeing Queensland, supports Queenslanders to adopt healthier lifestyles. To find out more about the program visit https://qcwacountrykitchens.com.au/. Beetroot Hummus Serves: 8 Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 10-12 minutes ½ serve per portion Ingredients: • 1 large beetroot, leaves and roots removed • 400g can chickpeas, rinsed and drained • ½ teaspoon cumin powder • 1 lemon, juiced • 1 tablespoon tahini • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 2 cloves garlic • ½ teaspoon vegetable stock powder • Sweet paprika, to serve • Vegetable sticks, to serve Method: • MICROWAVE beetroot on high in a bowl with lid for 10-12 minutes. Slip skin off cooked beetroot. • ADD beetroot, chickpeas, cumin, lemon juice, tahini, olive oil, garlic and stock powder to food processor and blend until smooth. • SERVE with a sprinkle of sweet paprika and a variety of vegetable sticks. Alternative Method: • 225g canned beetroot, drained of juice works just as well. Everyday Food *Recipe courtesy of the Country Kitchens team Spinach Quiche *Recipe courtesy of Del Ahern, Gayndah Branch Everyday FoodServes: 6 Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 40 minutes 2 serves per portion Ingredients: • 1 tablespoon canola oil • ½ bunch spring onions, finely chopped • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped • 100g bacon, fat trimmed, chopped • 1 bunch spinach, finely chopped • 6 eggs • 400g ricotta cheese, reduced fat • ¾ cup cheddar cheese, reduced fat, grated • Fresh wholemeal breadcrumbs • Sprinkle ground nutmeg Method: • Preheat oven to 160ºC. Line oblong or quiche dish with baking paper. • Heat oil in frypan over medium heat. Add spring onion, garlic, celery and bacon. • FRY gently until celery begins to soften. Add spinach, stirring until wilted. • REMOVE from heat and allow to cool slightly. • BEAT eggs in a bowl and stir in the ricotta and ½ cup of the grated cheese. Mix into the spinach mixture. • Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle over remaining cheese, breadcrumbs and nutmeg. • BAKE for 35 minutes or until browned. • Serve hot or cold.
“Any advances taken will reduce the maximum fortnightly Scheme payment a recipient can receive over the next 26 fortnights.
“These conditions also mean par ticipants choosing to receive advance payments under the scheme will not be able to receive more overall than if they had chosen to receive regular fortnight ly payments.” Paul Rogan.
“The HEAS option for retired Austra lian homeowners will blossom under these 1 July changes,” he said. “Supplementing retirement income – age pensioners and self-directed retir ees alike – is an issue for many senior Australians particularly given the cur rent cost of living pressures they face. “The maximum advance will be capped at 50 per cent of the maximum annual (26 fortnights) rate of age pen sion. Currently that is up to $19,354 for couples and $12,838 for singles.
“Participants will be able to access up to two advances in any 26 fortnight period, however the amount available as a second advance will be reduced by the value of the first advance. This en sures no more than the capped 50 per cent amount can be taken as advance payments.“Theexisting age-based loan-to-value limits will continue to apply when determining the maximum advance amount available to a participant. This means the actual advance a participant maximumiseligibletoreceivemaybelessthantheallowableadvancedescribed above, if the participant is approaching their Maximum Loan Amount.
SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022 SENIORS TODAY 13 “Who Better to Care for Your Family Than Ours” Wade and Adele Hughes - Proprietors For 24hr Service: Phone 4972 0800 2 Easterby Street GLADSTONE Specialising in Funeral & Cremation Services 12562152-DL36-22 Shop 1, 254 Musgrave Street Rockhampton North Qld 4701 MAXIMISE YOUR RETIREMENT WEALTH Book your consultation to discuss your financial goals. Rudy Liu AFP® Member of the FPA BBus, Adv DipFP (FS) Authorised Representative of Alliance Wealth Pty Ltd Practice Principal / Financial Planner ABN 93 161 647 007 AFSL 449221 (07) 4926 6899 (07) 4926 6944 admin@superioralliance.com.au www.superioralliance.com.au 12552589-DL36-22 Real Advice Real Opinions Total Clarity SENIORSTODAY.COM.AU PROPERTY AND FINANCE Lump sum advance option Lump sum advance payments are now allowed under the Federal Govern ment’s Home Equity Access Scheme (HEAS).According to CEO and founder of Pension Boost, Paul Rogan this change will increase flexibility and utility for participants by providing a new way to use the scheme to meet their living ex penses. HEAS participants will have the option of accessing a portion of their scheme payments, normally received over the course of a year, as a modest up-front lump sum advance.
Strumming up a storm
U3A (University of the Third Age) offers many and varied activities to promote fitness and learning for everyone into their retirement years… theirThird Age! But perhaps the most joyous and fun activity offered at U3A Rockhamp ton and District is the Ukulele Group which meets weekly on Wednesday af ternoons at 1.30pm at Fred Fox Hall on Gladstone Road, Rockhampton. Led by coordinator Barry Lloyd, the band of players are a popular act invit ed to appear at local events such as at Fitzroy by Teman for a recent, fun‘Hap py Hippies’ afternoon, and at a morn ing tea at Bethany Aged Care Facility. In their colourful Hawaiian costumes and with their great performances, they delight their audiences on every level.
anfromU3ACherylmoreton.org.aucheckU3AanderyonehamptonSportsdaytonAgeneralmeetingofU3ARockhampandDistrictisheldonthefirstTuesofeachmonthattheFrenchvilleClub,105CliftonStNorthRockat9amfora9:20amstart.Eviswelcometoattend.UkuleleisjustoneofthemanyfuninformativeactivitiesofferedbyRockhamptonandDistrict…outtheirwebsite:u3arockhamportheirFacebookpageforinformation,orphonepresident,Wickeson0428452836.Whynotcomealongandseewhatofferspeoplewhohaveretiredfull-timeworkbutnotfromlivingactive,funandfulfillinglifestyle.
At the last general meeting of U3A Rockhampton on 2 August, the Ukulele Group performed for fellow gathered members, and they had toes tapping and smiles all round from their very ap preciative audience.
14 SENIORS TODAY SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022 NEWS SENIORSTODAY.COM.AU
Enjoying the show. Phil Morriset (Left) and Barry Lloyd performing for the U3A General Meeting. Cynthia Drane and Rhonda Daniels in action. Bringing colour to U3A meetings. Getting into the spirit. The Ukulele performance at Fitzroy.
The recent Ukulele performance at Fitzroy by Teman.
Aussie rock icon Jon Stevens is telling his tale of surviving open heart surgery in his latest leading role as Ambassador for the Heart Foundation, supporting Give with Heart Day on 14 September.
Heart Foundation CEO David Lloyd said Jon’s story was a great example of the impact Aussies could have through donating to the Heart Foundation. “Decades of vital research supported by the Heart Foundation mean that Jon and others in his position can now be treated, supported in their recovery, and empowered to go on living their best lives,” Mr Lloyd said.
It was 35 years ago (1986) that Noise works was formed by Jon Stevens and Stuart ‘Chet’ Fraser. To mark the an niversary and in honour of Stuart who passed away from cancer in 2019, Jon Stevens and newly reformed group Noiseworks, which includes guitar ist Jack Jones released the first single ‘Heart & Soul’ off their new album on 15 August. Click here to listen to the track. Give with Heart Day which takes place on 14 September is the Heart Foundation’s annual 24-hour fund raising challenge. This year the Heart Foundation is aiming to raise $1 million to help continue to fund breakthrough research, so more Australians can live longer and healthier lives.
“There is more work to be done to ensure this is the case for all Australians and all forms of heart disease, and we are thrilled to have Jon on this journey with us.”
For decades, he’s performed to sellout crowds as a solo artist and as the lead singer of legendary bands includ ing Noiseworks and INXS.
These days
Heart bypass survivor and rocker Jon Stevens.
Jon has not only recov ered but is feeling fit and healthy thanks to diet and lifestyle changes and has just finished a 70-show national tour.
SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022 SENIORS TODAY 15 QUEENSLAND Connecting Seniors in our Shire! Over 33 events & Come ‘n Try activities FOR ALL EVENT DETAILS LIVINGSTONE.QLD.GOV.AU/EVENT-CALENDARVISIT PROGRAM OF EVENTS ALSO AVAILABLE AT COUNCIL CUSTOMER SUPORT CENTRES AND LIBRARIES 12562514-JW36-22 SENIORSTODAY.COM.AU HEALTH AND WELLBEING Singing for heart health
“My mission is to raise awareness of heart disease and heart health because too many Australians die of heart at tacks that could have been prevented.”
Jon, now 60, has a strong desire to spread the message about heart dis ease: in 2009, a routine health check-up found an anomaly in his heart result ing in open heart surgery. Following the surgery, Jon said he felt he had been given a second chance at life. His message is simple. “I’m urging Australians to have heart health checks and to support research into heart disease by digging deep for Give with Heart Day,” Jon said.
The Royal Czech Ballet will visit Australia for the first time with Swan Lake...the most loved classi cal ballet of them all and are head ing to Rockhampton on 6 October. This masterpiece ballet is pre sented in two acts and follows the original storyline with traditional choreographic revisions by Marius Pepita.Swan Lake is the love story of Prince Siegfried who falls in love with Odette. Odette is under a spell, where she is a swan by day, who turns into a woman at night. The spell can only be broken by a man who will pledge his love for ever. It is a story where the virtues of love and forgiveness in the end conquer evil and betrayal.
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Chances those of us who are grandpar ents have probably bought, own or at the very least, read, The Gruffalo. Based on the award-winning pic ture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, published by Macmillan Chil dren’s Books –The Gruffalo stage play is on it’s way to Rockhampton. This is a chance to have some quality time with the grandkids while introduc ing them to the world of stage plays.. After sell-out seasons across the world, including London’s West End and Broadway, The Gruffalo returns to Australia!Thisis a chance to join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in this magical, musical ad aptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Searching for hazelnuts, Mouse meets the cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl and the party mad Snake. Will the story of the terrifying Gruffalo save Mouse from ending up as dinner for these hungry woodland creatures? After all, there’s no such thing as a Gruffalo –is there?Songs, laughs and scary fun for chil dren aged three plus and their grownups… When: Wednesday, 12 September, 06:30pm Where: Pilbream Theatre. Sophie Kleinschmidt and Joshua Whitten in The Gruffalo. Picture: PETER WALLIS
The Royal Czech Ballet features elite dancers from the European countries of France, Italy, Moldova and Ukraine. When: 6 October, 7.30pm-9.30pm Where: Pilbeam Theatre inSwansongfirstvisit
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Sapphires sparkle Sapphires set to sing up a storm.
Still smiling - Colin presents memories and music of the Bee Gees. Stayin’ alive to hit sounds
Drum protege and child actor (Smiley, The Scamp and A Cry From The Streets), Colin was the official 4th band member and essential to the Bee Gees sound, driving the evolution of this supergroup on stage and in the studio. He performed on four albums with the three brothers including the iconic #1 singles Massachusetts, To Love Somebody, New York Min ing Disaster, I Started A Joke and so many forThemore.BestoftheBeeGeeshastouredovertwodecadesandColinsays:“It’swonderfulthattheseincrediblesongsliveonthroughthisgreatshowandIamthrilledtoaddanotherdimensionbysharingmymemories.”
The Best of the Bee Gees brings a catalogue of mega-hits and first-hand stories from original Bee Gees drum mer, Colin “Smiley” Petersen, to Pil beam Theatre in September.
Rockhampton’s own Lorinda May Mer rypor takes one of the starring roles in The Sapphires stage musical coming to Pilbeam Theatre on 8 September. Lorinda plays Julie in the energetic, fun and engaging play that affirms life and the realisation of dreams. The Sapphires is fast becoming one of Australia’s best-loved stories, and winner of multiple awards for film, mu sical play and soundtrack album. The Sapphires, written and directed byTony Briggs is the story of four young Aboriginal women who like singing country music and suddenly get the chance to change their tune and their lives.Wearing sequins, armed only with microphones they find themselves try ing to spread joy in the hell that is the VietnamWar.Afunny,heart-warming tale inspired by the true story of four Yorta Yorta Women, who sang classic soul hits (per formed live on stage) against the back drop of personal change and massive socialEitherupheaval.sunentirely or part of med ley – the musical features (Love is like a)Heatwave, He’s So Fine, Respect, My Boyfriend’s Back, I heard it Through the Grapevine, Stop in the Name of Love, Something’s Got a Hold on Me, Get Up (I Feel Like Being A Sex Machine), Stop in the Name of Love, Chain of Fools and more. When: Thursday, 8 September, 07:30pm - 09:40pm Location: Pilbeam Theatre, Cnr Victo ria Parade and Cambridge Street, Rock hampton City
Follow that mouse on stage
The Royal Czech Ballet comes to town.
Stress reduction is advised for women going through “the Change” and what better way to reduce stress than to laugh!Celebrating its twenty-first anni versary, the original NewYork and Las Vegas hit Menopause The Musical is coming to the Pilbeam Theatre!
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Amber Joy Poulton.
Mining countryLoretta’ssongbook
Bravo: Hit musical flushed with success
singsWesternblues It’s the year 1954. Ella Fitzgerald, Etta James and Eartha Kitt are all at the dizzy heights of their careers. With swinging jazz, powerful soul and cheeky kitsch these three women broke new ground for all who followed after. Melissa Western and her world class band pay tribute to this magnificent era in music and inspiring trio of pioneer ing singers. 50s style abounds. Pilbeam Theatre - October 17 Gladstone Entertainment and Con vention Centre: October 18.
Charlotte Brontë’s gothic tale of a spirited orphan in search of love, family and a sense of belonging, blazes the country in 2022 coming to Central Queensland in Novem ber including Rockhampton on 8 November.Witnessone of the most iconic pieces of English literature retold in a faithful yet fiercely original new stage adaptation from the nationally-renowned shake & stir theatre co (Animal Farm, Dracula). Following a childhood spent suffering at the hands of her cruel Aunt, Jane finds employment at Thornfield Hall – the impressive yet mysterious home of Edward Rochester.AsJane and Rochester become inexplicably drawn to each other, the dark secrets locked within the walls of Thornfield start to unravel forcing Jane on a heart-wrenching journey toward truth and freedom. This stunning new production, featuring original music, written and performed live on stage by multi-ARIA Award winner Sarah McLeod, (The Superjesus), will set a fire blazing in your soul.
The cast of Jane Eyre.
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Over the past two decades almost 17 million in 16 countries have seen the story of four women at a lingerie sale have nothing in common but a black lace bra, memory loss, hot flushes, night sweats, not enough sex, too much sex and more. Inspired by a hot flush and a bottle of wine, Menopause The Musical is a celebration for women who are on the brink of, in the middle of, or have sur vived “The Change”. This sidesplitting musical parody, the longest running scripted musical in LasVegas history, set to classic tunes from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles! Here is a change to see what mil lions of women (and brave men) have been laughing about for 20 years. It’s the Hilarious Celebration of Women and The Change. When: Thursday, 13 October 2022 | 07:30pm to 09pm Where: Pilbeam Theatre Menopause - a musical for changing times.
When: 7 October, 7.30pm Where: Pilbeam Theatre
thegothicSomethinginEyre
In a career spanning six decades Lo retta Lynn has long been the darling of country music. Her life was immortalized in the award-winning movie Coal Miner’s Daughter and proving that the now the 90-year-olds music is timeless comes this performance -also aptly titled Coal Miner’sMulti-awarded,Daughter. look alike songstress, Amber Joy Poulton, leads this produc tion filled with traditional and contem porary hits and stories of inspirational pioneer and superstar Loretta Lynn. Weaving anecdotes and comedy through a traditional and contempo rary catalogue of hits, including Coal Miner’s Daughter, Don’t Come Home A’Drinkin’ With Lovin’ On Your Mind, I Fall To Pieces,You Ain’tWoman Enough To Take My Man, Crazy, Silver Threads and Golden Needles,Walkin’ After Midnight, You’re Lookin’ At Country, One’s On The Way, Stand By Your Man, After The Fire Is Gone and more, this is a show not to be missed! Coal Miner’s Daughter includes ‘friends’ Lizzie Moore as Patsy Cline and Denis Surmon as ConwayTwitty accom panied by The Holy Men, in this sensa tional musical tribute to three legends.
18 SENIORS TODAY SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022 NEED TO BUY A GIFT FOR SOMEONE WHO HAS EVERYTHING? NEED TO BUY A GIFT FOR SOMEONE WHO HAS EVERYTHING? BUY THEM A SUBSCRIPTION TO THE LOCAL NEWSPAPER Keep up to date & informed about local issues, local people & local news in the Central Queensland Region To arrange home delivery for that special someone, call our dedicated subscription team on 1300 170 885 Rockhampton & Capricorn Coast Region CQ TODAY is published each Wednesday & Saturday Gladstone Region GLADSTONE TODAY is published each Thursday CQToday 12521760-AV49-21
SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022 SENIORS TODAY 19 We care for eyes and ears at Specsavers Book a bulk billed eye test or a free 15-minute hearing check today Specsavers Rockhampton Allenstown Allenstown Square 139-145 Derby Street (near the Post Office) Tel 4921 0762 Specsavers Rockhampton North Stockland Rockhampton (opposite Coles) Tel 4921 0299 Book an appointment online Bulk billed eye test available when listed on a valid Medicare card without optometry restrictions. A fee may be incurred if further testing is required after your free 15 minute appointment. 12563182-MC36-22
Brush with fame in Dalby
Dalby’s trying to present itself as an alternative to the city.
er, voiceover artist and philanthropist Samuel Johnson - best known for his roles as EvanWylde in the television se ries The Secret Life of Us. The Dalby Events Centre, with its high ceilings and polished floorboards, created an open, light and inspiring at mosphere for the writers festival. But it was the organising team and volunteer support staff that made the differencea reminder of outback Australian towns where everyone is welcomed. Driving up from the Sunshine Coast there had been some delays due to roadworks after drenching rains, but going through Kilcoy and across the Brisbane River near Moore meant the start of our road trip. Heading up the Blackbutt Range you glimpse postcards from the past with old farmhouses and then the stone buildings of an old staging post, where the horses of Cobb and Co were wa tered and the travellers rested and fed. Through bunya pine forests the road twists and turns.
20 SENIORS TODAY SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022 OUT AND ABOUT SENIORSTODAY.COM.AU
By Erle Levey “Don’t you think he looks like Jimmy Barnes?’’Theyweren’t the first words Marilyn said to us that night. But they were cer tainly the ones most on her mind. To me, her partner Gary looked more like Aussie actor Chris Haywood. May be Steve Bisley. “No,’’ Marilyn exclaimed. “Jimmy Barnes. Look at him. “It’s why I love him.’’ We were in the corner of the pub lic bar of the Criterion Hotel in Dalby, a mid-sized town on the western side of the Darling Downs in Southern
There’s a classic car out front and rusting petrol pump but you sense there is good camaraderie inside. Driving through the beautiful graingrowing fields, with the Bunya Moun tains away to the north, you notice the way in which the powerlines are posi tioned at some almost impossible an gles ... to me it shows the absolute value of the soil. It’s so friable, which means the powerlines can’t get a decent foun dation.Like gnarled trees along the coast line, bent over by the constant winds. On this journey there was still water over the roads in patches, a result of the rainHowever,events. it was only a handful of years ago that the place had virtually been in Farmersdrought.ploughing the soil for spring planting raised great clouds of dust. Yet this time it was different. It was earlier in the season and the crops had just been Eventuallyharvested.yousee them on the ho rizon - the water tower, the grain silos, the rows of trees standing out on the landscape.Dalbyisa mix of old and new, an his toric past and a progressive future. Walk down the main street and you quickly realise the legacy of the cattle and stock horse industry - the outfitters shops filled with boots, belts and hats of different shapes and sizes. And you don’t want to mix them up - there are those favoured by drovers, by sheep farmers, by cattle people and horseTheriders.stock yards to the south west of town signal the importance of cattle to the area, with 200,000 cattle being mar keted each year. This is also the home of Australian stock horse sales, now in their 48th year, as well as eventing.
Early morning, Dalby. 292936Kaimkillenbun Hotel. 292936The road into Blackbutt. 292936
The town of Blackbutt has been beau tifully done up in recent years and you cannot help but admire the avenue of trees to the west of the shopping centre. At Nanango we take a break for a pic nic lunch then turn to the south and head for Cooyar. This township with a classic two-sto rey hotel on the corner probably marks the change from coastal to seriously country living. It’s not not long after that you are rolling through the rich, fertile soil of the Darling Downs and small farming communities such as Maclagen. They’ve risked becoming forgot ten places along the way but are start ing to experience a new lease of life, as city dwellers seek affordable living in a country landscape. Then you reach Kaimkillenbun, at first glance it’s not much more than an abandoned railway line and grain silos, a state primary school and an engineer ing works that reflects the farming heri tage of the area. But what stands out isThe Bun .... the local pub that serves as meeting place as well as watering hole, where piano and singing lessons are held along with Friday night raffles in the public bar.
St Johns Anglican Church, Dalby. 292936 The highway at Blackbutt. 292936 Western Downs Library - Dalby. 292936
Talking with Trish and John, our hosts at The Drovers Inn, they tell us the region draws a variety of industry conferences including nursing, teach ing, cattle, medical, engineers, and in digenous land rights. It is government initiative that is bringing these events to the regions to give an economic boost and support the feasibility of theWestern Downs region. We talked about the fact you could walk past the fast food outlets and come across the Urban Paddock for breakfast. Set in the charming Quambi House, it was the perfect idea of paddock-to-plate coffee shop/cafe with a country homestyle feel ... the wrap-around decks, dec freshtobackoratednooksandrooms,andwide-opengardenprovidetheperfectsettingenjoythefirst-classlocallysourced,andwell-presentedfood.
givesQueenslandDowns,enoughitthreebane,theWesternpartQueensland.It’sneitherherenorthere...andthat’softhecharmaboutDalbyandtheDownsregion.It’sattheheartofeverythingbutwithwide-openfeelofoutbackAustralia.AboutthreehoursdrivefromBristwohoursfromToowoomba,andhoursfromtheSunshineCoast,isfarenoughforaholidayyetclosetohomeforconvenience.AtthenorthernendoftheDarlingit’sprobablywhereOutbackstarts-whereagriculturewaytograzing.It’swherecommercialactivityisinterlinkedwithmining-particularlycoalseamgasandopen-cutcoal.TheMyallCreekrunsthroughthecentreoftown.HowwouldIdescribethetown?Divided.Ittookafewmomentsandwasn’ttheanswerIwouldhaveexpectedtogive.Afterall,Ihadonlydriventhroughitoncebefore,onaroadtripbackfromDarwin.ThatwasmorethanfiveyearsagoandIwaspleasedwiththebreakaftermanymilestravellingalongtheWarregoHighway.Thehighwayhadformanyyearsservedcountrypeople-fromtheagriculturalpropertiesontheDarlingDownsandthegrazinglandfurtherout.Yetnowthereweretrucksassociatedwiththeminingindustry...gasmainlybutthereiscoalaswellinthenearbyareaofAcland.Yousensesometensionbetweenthefarmersandtheminers-thosewhoarecroppingandthosewhoarecattlepeople,andafeartheirlandwillberuinedbythemining.Dalbyisoften“thatplacealongtheway’’whileheadingfurtherwesttoplacessuchasMilesandChinchilla,Tambo,Blackall,Mitchell,AugathellaorMuckadilla.YetitwasourdestinationonaweekendthisyearfortheWordsOutWestReadersandWritersFestival,heldattheDalbyEntertainmentCentre.Theweekendwasachancetoenjoycountryhospitality,wideopenspacesandgoodconversationswithsomeliterarygreats.AmongtheguestspeakerswereauthorofTheBookThiefMarkusZusak,prize-winningAustraliannovelistandjournalistMatthewCondon,ABCJournalistLisaMillar,andSydney-basednovelistNicolaMoriarty.Thentherewasactor,radiopresent
timesGarywell-knownthereFromtherethestoriesflowed-IthinkwasevensingingandlinesfromAustralianpoemsbecausehadbeenonthestageatvariousinhislife.WewererecitingsuchworksasThe
The Myall Creek and parkland in the heart of Dalby. 292936 St, Dalby. 292936 covered arena at Dalby Showgrounds. 292936 Kaimkillenbun Hotel. 292936
Man From Ironbark, and I’m sure there were bits of Mulga Bill’s Bicycle in there as well ... about his wild ride down Dead Man’sWhileHill.eating the meal we were watching the television in the bar, and as well as live coverage of Test Cricket matches from India and Sri Lanka, there was a tribute to Australian wick et-keeper Rod Marsh - a legend behind the“Ironstumps.Gloves’’ had just died after suf fering heart problems, and it was sad to see the loss but also heartening to ap preciate the legacy he left. The walk home to the Drovers Arms motel was only short yet it seemed like a journey - a journey through time. It probably was. Mining trucks and stock transports rolled through town where drovers brought their flocks of sheep or herds of cattle along what would have been a stock route in years gone by. Yet we woke to a new day and while about to jump in the shower I checked my“Guessphone.what,’’ I said to my travelling companion, “you’ll never guess what else has It“Shanehappened.Warne‘sdead.’’wasunbelievable - Australia’s greatest wicket-taker dead at 52. Warne was a great slow bowler - leg breaks.Anda celebrity. He was bigger than the game itself ... almost. This was unheard of - two of cricket’s greats going in such quick succession. And that set up our weekend in Dal by ... expect the unexpected.
SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022 SENIORS TODAY 21 Look your best when you’re dressed by ZEST • Clothes • Shoes • Hats • Fascinators • Purses • Accessories Shop 2, 5-7 Normanby Street Yeppoon Phone: 0411 396 616 Zest boutique Yeppoon 12520007-AV49-21 SENIORSTODAY.COM.AU OUT AND ABOUT Dalby skyline. 292936 Breakfast bowl at the Urban Paddock, Dalby. 292936 The Criterion Hotel, Dalby. 292936 Along the way ... Kaimkillenbun. 292936
Cunningham
The
The cafe has a welcome and relax ing ambience - reminding one of days past when time taken to share a homecooked meal or hot coffee were sa voured.Thecall of the west was also found at the hotels in and around town ... the Criterion was our choice for dinner on theThenight.Cri. A two-storey Queenslander, not far from the banks of the Myall Creek. Timber floors, verandahs out the front, beer garden at the side and warm hospitality inside. You could not fault the staff - very professional in their presentation and service.Weeased ourselves into a cor ner on one end of the public bar and started taking in the scene - a horse shoe-shaped counter and patrons of all shapes and sizes gathered around it - hats and caps, shirts and singlets, shorts and jeans, thongs and riding boots.The beers were cold and soon we had another couple grabbing the stools be side us - Marilyn and Gary. We decided to order a meal and be cause of the situation in Ukraine, I said my choice was going to be chicken Kyiv.“No,’’ Marilyn cried out. “It has to be pork.’’The compromise was to search for pork on the menu and call it pork Kyiv.
Challenging times ahead
By Kevin Redd Hello gardeners- we are just on the cusp of our ‘spring’ season…which as many of us in the subtropics know, can be quite a challenging time! So this is often the time in the garden when our plants are getting exposed to windy and quite cool August conditions followed by a rapid increase in temper atures and usually relatively little rain fall as we move through September and October.Sowhat should we be doing in the garden now?
First and foremost- now is a com fortable time to get out to apply an ap plication of fertiliser and also a layer of mulch to both the ornamental garden as well as the food producing patch. We should do these things BEFORE the soil gets too bare and exposed to the drying spring conditions. While you are out doing these important tasks, give the old foliage on your plants a bit of a ‘tidy up’ by trimming off browning/ spent leaves and keeping a very careful lookout for any pests who may also be basking in the winter sun.
Make the most of the sunny days at this time of year and get out into the garden!
22 SENIORS TODAY SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022 12510424-SG40-21 GARDENING SENIORSTODAY.COM.AU
What else can we be doing or plant ing? Well this depends entirely on how motivated we are to keep the new plants well watered! Often plants go ing in now have come from being cared for in a nursery environment to sud denly being left to ‘fend for themselves’ and ignored by their new owners...so don’t be that person who kills their new plants!Atour site on the Sunshine Coast with lots of edibles and lush tropical foliage plants, we are big fans of doing our weekly wander around during this time of year to pick the last of our citrus, trim off any messy foliage and to get the garden looking beautiful at this ‘soonto-be Spring’ time of year. This is also a wonderful ‘weather window’ to try a wide range of ‘seed lings’ and seeds which can feed us right up until Christmas - plant or sow things like capsicums and tomatoes, radishes, beetroot and lettuces which will do very well for the next few months if we diligently water them as they grow! So be that gardener who avoids the su permarket iceberg lettuce and has an abundance of well-tended vegetables!
Brisbane’s the place to be
Emporium Hotel. Three Blue Ducks food. W Brisbane. Enjoying the meals of Three Blue Ducks.
TryaDucksriver.ningcomingthecapturelifestyleternationalimpressivetheorbridgesacrossHotelsaplacepledofdailyatlist.thatpackedviewsattheacrossSouthsideplacetellingpublicCulturaloriginalcafeofferings,licdanceBallet,onEnd,therecentlylaunchedThomasDixCentre,isthehomeofQueenslandwithastate-of-the-arttheatre,studio,communityspaces,pubartinstillationsandanarrayoffoodincludingarooftopvenue,andbunkerbar&restaurant.LearnmoreaboutBrisbane’srichAbcultureonaguidedBlackcardTourthattakesinthemanyartinstillationsalongtheway,thestoriesofMeeanjin,meaningofthebluewaterlilies.TheplacetostayandeatontheistheNovotelideallylocatedfromMusgravePark,justbehindbustlingSouthbankprecinct.DinetheSpiceCentralKitchen&Bar,withacrossthepark,themenuisjamwithlocalproduceandflavourscomplementtheimpressivewineAfterlunchheadtotherooftopbartheexquisiteEmporiumHotel,opentothepublictheviewsaresomethebestBrisbanehasonoffer,couwithacreativecocktaillistit’sthetobeasthesungoesdown.BookdecadentFrenchstylehighteaattheexquisite‘BelleEpoque’cafe.Takeanelectricbikeorscootertheriveronthemanypedestrianandpathsthatconnectthecitycatchaferryandenjoythesitesasrivertwistsandturns.StopoffattheWBrisbane,arenownedinhotelbrandthatisallaboutandculture.TheroomsaresuitablyattiredtotheviewsandtheessenceofSunshineState.Thehotelisaswelasitischarming,withastunrooftopbarthatlooksacrosstheRenownedrestaurantThreeBlueislocatedwithintheWBrisbane,menufusedwithnativeingredients.therawkingfish,fermentedgreen
Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) is the cities jewel in the crown for performing arts, with internation ally acclaimed shows playing most days of the week. A hop and skip down the road inWest
chilli, buttermilk, cucumber, apple, nori and Davidson plum, coconut cus tard, poached rhubarb and almond praline for dessert. Enjoy street performers and food vendors in King George Square and shop Queen Street Mall for an eclectic mix of independent designers and ma jorBrisbanebrands. City Hall is the heart of the city, a decadent, art deco building built in the 1920’s. Open to the public with free live music, the venue hosts some of the city’s finest events like Brisbane Fashion Festival. Take a stroll through the majestic Bo tanical Gardens and catch a live show at the open-air River Stage. A short stroll to Eagle Street Pier and the historical Customs House, where you can grab a bite to eat and watch the sun set over StoryHowardBridge.Smith Wharves is a short walk along the promenade and is pur pose-built under the Story Bridge, with cascading copper lifts that adjoin Bow
Whether you call it Brisbane, Bris Vegas or Brissie, Queensland’s capital city is having its time in the sun, fast becom ing a global destination, this pretty city by river is poised for the future. There’s been an array of internation al hotels swing open their doors along with laneways being transformed into urban eat streets. The activation of pre cincts such as Howard Smith Wharves and the soon to be opened Queens Wharf are connecting the CBD across the river to Southbank. Wander amongst the purple bou gainvillea path that weaves in and around Southbank and you’ll find an array of activities such as the Streets Beach, Chinese Gardens, Fish Lane and the Cultural Precinct. The Gallery of Modern Art takes pride of place on the riverfront, with magnificent views across to the CBD and mountains beyond. Home to world class exhibitions such as the Asia Pa cificTriannual, it’s a creative space built for the Queenslandpeople.
By Kylie www.travellingsenorita.comMitchell-Smith
en Terrace to FortitudeValley. A lifestyle precinct, with on-site brewery and food from across the globe, such as Greca, Stanley and Yoko. The Vincent Hotel takes pride of place at the Wharves, built into the rock fa çade, with a stunning rooftop bar and infinity pool it’s one of the finest hotels in the Boutiqueland. shopping and luxe dining is all the rage on James Street, try Sun shine for lunch, City Winery for tapas and vino and Hellenika for dinner. For titude Valley is the place to be for late night soirees, with iconic venues like Cloudland, The Tivoli and The Triffid. Head up to Mt Coot-ha and take in the city at great heights, with views across to the mountains beyond you get a sense of how truly beautiful the city landscape is. There’s plenty more to see and do in Brisbane Town from sporting arenas to open green spaces and leafy urban vil lages, a city on the move its prepping itself for the Olympics and beyond.
SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022 SENIORS TODAY 23 SENIORSTODAY.COM.AU OUT AND ABOUT
24 SENIORS TODAY SPRING: SEPTEMBER 2022
Football Rockhampton’s commit tee and affiliated club members were guests of honour at a special after noon tea at City Hall late last month.
Mayor TonyWilliams said their 100year history in the region cements them as one of the most important sporting associations to have spanned across“Rockhamptongenerations.Football Associa tion moved to Norbridge Park in 1976 to host their junior fixtures, with The Club House officially opened in 1978 by the Honourable Mayor Rex Pil beam,” MayorWilliams said.
Mayor Williams, Gwen Fox and Cr Rutherford. take to the field
“It is bittersweet that we farewell
“It’s great to see people flock in from all over the Central Highlands to be in volved in the day,” he said. “We had a fantastic day last year with the 70th event hosted in Blackwater and I’m sure this year will be no exception. “Pop on down to McIndoe to see the Australian team take on local Central Highland legends, it’s sure to be a great weekend!” he said. The Australian team is made up of NRL legends, will include Scott Prince, Cliff Lyons, John Hopoate, Greg Bird, Ben Hannant, Darren Smith, Steve Bell, Jim Dymock, Sid Domic, Reggie Cress brook, Craig Teevan, Jamie Feeney, Pe ter Gill, Brenton Bowen, Noel Goldthor pe, Jaiman Lowe, Graeme Bradshaw, Paul Downie, Nikhil Pappu, Qasim Ah san, Jay Edwards, Matt Michael. Emerald All Stars: Stewart Cheffirs, Steven Sheargold, Grant Carlyon, Mi chal Heinemann, Andrew Finlay, Tim Connolly, Josh Dillon, Les Bentlin, Brad Hulm, Ray Downie, Brad Hardgrave, Casey Watkins Brett. Weatherley, Da mon Walsh, Kurt Renwick, Matt Ron wick, Dale Mikkelsen, Kvle Mattingley, Eddie Ross, Ben Kemp, Blayne Harling, Stuart Falconer, Les Healy, Clinton Cave.For more information, head to the International Legends of League on Facebook.
“Their contribution helps to support this community event and fundraising for local clubs. Without their support, this event wouldn’t be able to happen!
The event was held in recognition of the group’s long service to the re gion’s football community before they dissolved late last year.
ACTIVE OUTDOORS SENIORSTODAY.COM.AU Legends
Proving there is life after football retire ment, 61-year-old Cliff Lyons will be one of the elder statesmen at the Inter national Legends of League match be ing held at McIndoe Park, Emerald on 10“Cliffy”September.played in the 1980s and 1990s and was a Clive Churchill and two-time Dally M Medallist, playing 309 first-grade games with Manly, win ning grand finals with them in 1987 and 1996.The Narrandera-born lock also rep resented New South Wales and Austra lia, being part of the successful 1990 Kangaroo Tour of Great Britain and France.Aswell as Lyons there is a plethora of younger players including six for mer North Queensland Cowboys Scott Prince, Ben Hannant, Reggie Cress brook, Brenton Bowen, Noel Goldthor pe and Jaiman Lowe named for the Aus tralian Team of NRL Legends. In fact, the game features players with almost 3500 games of NRL and Su per League experience, 78 State of Ori gin appearances and 51 International capsThebetween.gameis the first to be hosted in Emerald with the action kicking off at 2pm and the main game starting at 6.30pm.Theformer players are in the area for four days with the remainder of the stay including school visits, a coaching clinic and a corporate day. International Legends of League Event Organiser, Craig Teevan, said he was grateful for the community sup port surrounding the event.
Football Rockhampton and we know that their decision to dissolve in De cember 2021 was not an easy one to make,” Cr Rutherford said.
Preparations are well underway for the legends game at Emerald with solid community support from local sponsors and the council.
Celebrating Football Rockhampton group’s contribution
“The contribution Football Rock hampton has made to our sporting community is one that will go down in history, and we wish to thank each and every one of their committee mem bers.”Parks Sports and Public Spaces Councillor Cherie Rutherford said Football Rockhampton have con sistently provided our region with a home for football that clubs and the community are proud of.
“A big thanks to council for coming on board as the presenting sponsor, and a special mention to all the other sponsors involved too.
“We have experienced some great vibes around the community and are looking forward to a big crowd.” Central Highlands Mayor Kerry Hayes said he was excited for Emerald to host its first event in the series.
theinresponsibilityQueenslandandderfulRockhamptonunteeredmany,mittees,thecenceyearshamptonsupporthamptontionCounciltioncommendable.”orderitycisioncommunityering,game“Theirfocusaroundtheirlovefortheanditsplayershasbeenunwavandtheirimpactonthesportingisatestamenttothis.“WhileFootballRockhampton’sdedidnotcomelightly,theirabiltorecognisetheneedforchangeintogrowthesportinthisregionisFootballRockhamptonAssociaLifeMemberGwenFoxthankedfortheirsupport.“FootballRockhamptonAssociawouldliketothanktheRockRegionalCouncilfortheirandloyaltygiventotheRockAssociationoverthemanywehaveheldtheleaseandliofNorbridgePark,”MsFoxsaid.“IwouldalsoliketopaytributetoAssociation’sManagementComLifeMembersandtothemanytirelessworkerswhovoltheirtimetohelpmaketheAssociationthewonorganisationithasbeenover50beyondyears.”SinceJanuary2022,FootballhavesuccessfullytakenofNorbridgeParkandJuly,securedCouncilapprovalforFreeholdLease.
“Norbridge Park became the major host field for all local club teams and held many a state championship and representative carnivals.
