Flourish Magazine 2018

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RESILIENCE MAT TERS

Secrets to happiness HOME CARE PACKAGES

Flexible, tailored support

GRAND SLAM

plus fight the flu the art of feng shui edible gardens

Meet Dylan Alcott

W I N T E R 2018

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We help you protect your assets in line with your wishes now and into the future At Australian Unity Trustees, we help you consider all outcomes to At Australian Unity Trustees, we help you consider all outcomes to ensure your wishes are met and your best interests maintained. ensure your wishes are met and your best interests maintained.

We bring independence and a breadth of experience to assist you in We bring independence and a breadth of experience to assist you in preparation for when you need it most. preparation for when you need it most.

• Estate Planning • Trust Management • Estate Planning • Trust Management • Philanthropic and Community Services • Philanthropic and Community Services • Financial, Legal & Estate Administration • Financial, Legal & Estate Administration • Financial Attorney • Financial Attorney

For more information on how we can help you, please call us on 1800 87 87 83 For more information on how we can help you, please call us on 1800 87 87 83 or email us at AustralianUnityTrustees@australianunity.com.au or email us at AustralianUnityTrustees@australianunity.com.au Australian Unity Trustees Limited ABN 55 162 061 556, of Level 7, 189 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, Australian Unity Trustees VIC 3200, Limited AFSL, ABN 483220.

55 162 061 556, of Level 7, 189 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, VIC 3200, AFSL, 483220.

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flourish WINTER 2018

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Minds over matters

The TOM Makeathon

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Racing records

Corrie de Groot, a sporting legend

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Braille globe

Invention preserved for a new generation

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Fight the flu

Preparing for the cold season

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A new rhythm

Dancer Michelle Ryan, an inspired artist

Meet Dylan Alcott

A tennis champion on a mission

Bowled over

The low-impact sports revolution

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Australian Unity enquiries 1300 160 170 flourish@australianunity.com.au australianunity.com.au/flourish

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flouris h@a us t ra l ia nunit y.com.au The information contained in this magazine about Australian Unity’s products or services is correct as at the time of printing.

Please visit the Australian Unity website (australianunity.com.au/assisted-living) or phone us on 1300 160 170 to obtain further information about which of our products or services may be available to you. Such information is of a general nature only.

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Managing director Nick Hardie-Grant Publisher Scott Elmslie Editor Leanne Tolra Managing Editor Lachean Humphreys Art Director/Design Dallas Budde Pre-press Splitting Image Print IPMG Pty Ltd Contributors (editorial) Jane Canaway; Emma Castle; Narelle Harris; Lachean Humphreys; Graeme Kemlo; Johanna Leggatt.

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Ab ar orig e a in co dvi al a nt sed nd A ai t T D ns ha or V an t p res I is im ag St CE no a e ra w ge 4 o it I de of f t sla ce a p his nd as e pu er ed rso b re . n lica ad w ti er ho o s n

IN THIS ISSUE

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WELCOME

Stories to

INSPIRE YOU

W

flourish elcome to the sixth issue of Flourish magazine.

Since taking on the role of CEO, I have made it one of my main priorities to regularly visit our aged care homes, our retirement communities, the homes of our home care clients and the yarn-ups of our Indigenous clients.

I believe you can only truly understand your clients and respond to their needs if you meet them in their homes and communities.

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Left: Dylan Alcott’s proudest achievements so far have been off the court.

Photograph by Get Skilled Access

RESILIENCE MAT TERS

Secrets to happiness HOME CARE PACKAGES

Flexible, tailored support

GRAND SLAM

plus fight the flu the art of feng shui edible gardens

Meet Dylan Alcott

W I N T E R 2018

Below: Since taking on the role of CEO, Kevin McCoy has made meeting clients and staff a main priority.

Since the October issue of Flourish , I have visited many clients, in areas including Ballarat, Geelong, Carlton, Dubbo, Parkes, Box Hill, Maroubra, Alexandria, Hurstville, Parramatta, Petersham and Bondi.

To kick off 2018, I took the adage of “walking in our clients’ shoes” to a new level by spending a night at our Campbell Place retirement community in Glen Waverley, Victoria.

I went through the admission experience, dined in and mingled with the residents, and witnessed the wonderful support and care our staff provide to our elderly clients.

During my discussions with the residents, one of the strongest sentiments they shared was the distress that can occur when moving into residential care, knowing it is likely to be the last move they make. I was particularly impressed with the role our staff play in providing vital companionship to these residents who are at their most vulnerable.

While providing care and support to our clients is at the centre of what we do, for more than 175 years Australian Unity has also been a strong advocate for change and better government policy for its members and clients.

Our current focus is on social infrastructure.

A major report we commissioned and funded –

Practical innovation: Closing the social infrastructure gap in health and ageing – was released in February.

The report provides evidence of supply gaps in the provision of social infrastructure required by 2025 and 2040 and recommends a restructure of the way Australia delivers health and aged care services.

It challenges us to change our mindset from seeing health through the lens of illness treatment towards viewing it through the lens of wellbeing – with a focus on preventative care, improving wellness and striving for individual outcomes.

Australian Unity believes the report will make a valuable contribution to the ongoing discussions about health and ageing policy. The report can be downloaded from the Australian Unity website, australianunity.com.au/ageingcosts

Kevin McCoy CEO, Independent & Assisted Living, Australian Unity

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Community NEWS

Wedding bells ANNE TUDOR AND EDIE MAYHEW were one of the first Australian couples to embrace the new same-sex marriage laws. Anne is the primary carer for her partner, Edie, who was diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer’s in 2010.

The couple, from Ballarat in Victoria, celebrated their 33rd year together in September last year with a commitment ceremony. But, after the bill passed in December, Anne and Edie lodged their paperwork immediately and were married on 9 January, the first day possible.

Anne and Edie chose the Californian Redwood forest, near Beech Forest in Victoria, as their wedding location.

“It was incredibly emotional,” Anne says. “But Edie just took it in her stride, as she does everything.”

In September 2016, the pair launched #BiggerHearts, a campaign to encourage the local Ballarat community to be more dementia inclusive.

They work with local council, businesses, shopping centres and banks to reduce stigma and encourage more positive attitudes towards people living with dementia and cognitive impairment. dementia.org.au

Anne Tudor and Edie Mayhew launched the #BiggerHearts campaign in 2016, featured in our Summer 2017 issue of Flourish.

OFFICIALLY OPEN

Designed by one of Melbourne’s leading architectural firms, Fender Katsalidis, every home has its own balcony – so there’s plenty of room for a family lunch and taking in views of surrounding Carlton and across the city.

Just under one kilometre from the CBD, the location is hard to beat. Carlton is home to walking routes, bike paths and parklands, as well as arts and culture drawcards like the Lygon Street restaurant precinct and the popular Cinema Nova, an independent cinema renowned for showing a range of Australian, international and arthouse films.

Final release apartments are available now. To find out more, go to drummondplace.com.au

ri ad gin co vis al a nt ed nd ai th To A ns a r D an t p res V a S I no ima ge 4 tra CE w ge o it Is de of f th la ce a is nd as pe pu er ed rs b re . on lic ad w ati ers ho on a re is

Formerly known as The Residences at Rathdowne Place, Australian Unity’s Drummond Place retirement community was officially opened by a City of Melbourne representative in an event held in November last year.

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COMMUNIT Y NEWS

TRAILBLAZER

passes away Australian Unity mourns the loss of Bundjalung Elder and a leader of the Aboriginal disability movement, Lester Bostock OAM, who passed away in November 2017, aged 83.

He was a pioneer of Australian filmmaking and was a central figure in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rights movement in the 1960s and ’70s. Lester, an amputee, aired the notion of “double disadvantage” – the double whammy of being both Indigenous and living with disability – in 1991.

In 2002, he became the inaugural President of the Aboriginal Disability Network New South Wales.

That work led to the formation of a national body, the First Peoples Disability Network Australia, in 2010. In 2011, Lester received a Member of the Order of Australia award.

Australian Unity received permission from Lester’s family to use his image in this issue of Flourish magazine.

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITY This global event, held on 3 December each year and supported by the Australian Government since 1996, aims to increase community understanding of disability and celebrate the achievements of people with disability.

Paralympian and Triple J host Dylan Alcott OAM was named the Australian patron for the International Day of People with Disability in 2017. The theme was “Transformation towards a sustainable and resilient society for all”.

Read more about Dylan Alcott on page 24.

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Dylan took part in a panel called “Can I ask that?”, which looked at the questions people living with disability are most often asked, and discussed how to start and continue meaningful conversations for positive change.

That evening, the winners of the 2017 National Disability Awards were also announced at a dinner at the National Museum of Australia in Canberra. idpwd.com.au

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COMMUNIT Y NEWS

IMPORTANT

Social report

A report commissioned and supported by Australian Unity, Practical innovation: Closing the social infrastructure gap in health and ageing, was released in February this year.

The comprehensive report calls for strategic and innovative planning to ensure the nation’s social infrastructure will sustain our ageing population in coming decades.

It found that by 2025 the nation would need an additional $24 billion per annum in capital costs and $13 billion in operating costs to meet the projected gaps in residential aged care, community aged care, home and community care and hospital beds.

“An additional 180,000 carers for the aged care sector will be needed by 2025, as well as an extra 85,000 nurses across both the health and ageing sectors,” the report says.

The research also revealed that by 2040 the nation would have five million people aged over 70.

Australian Unity hopes the report will contribute to the nation’s health and ageing policy. To read the full report visit: australianunity.com.au/ ageingcosts

BETTER BATHS A soak in warm, salty water is a great way to relax and ease aches. Bath salts are simple and affordable to make at home, using a combination of salts, baking soda and essential oils.

The skin easily absorbs mineral-rich sea salts, while Epsom salts (also known as magnesium sulphate) may help relieve digestive ailments or inflammation caused by conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Adding baking soda can help soften the skin and reduce skin irritation.

DIY TIPS In a large bowl, mix one cup of coarse sea salt, two cups of Epsom salts and half a cup of baking soda. Add essential oils such as lavender or frankincense, which can help to promote calmness.

You can also add spices such as cinnamon or ginger or oils such as coconut, almond or argan to add scent and help keep the skin moisturised.

Sprinkle this mix into a warm bath.

If you don’t have time for a bath or you’re not a fan of the heat, add some of your salt mix to a large bowl for a homemade foot spa.

27 MAY – 3 JUNE

National unity

The theme for National Reconciliation Week 2018 was “Don’t keep history a mystery”.

Events during the celebration encouraged all Australians to explore our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history. Find out how you can get involved throughout the year. [ reconciliation.org.au

3 AUGUST

Jeans for Genes Don your denims for the day to celebrate Jeans for Genes’ 25th anniversary. The event is run by the Children’s Medical Research Institute, which is dedicated to finding ways to treat or prevent childhood cancer, epilepsy, birth defects and genetic diseases. [ jeansforgenes.org.au W i n t e r 2 0 1 8 F LOU R I SH

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INSIGHT

Make it so

Minds come together over things that really matter at the TOM Makeathon words Narrelle Harris

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INSIGHT (Opposite) The TOM Makeathon introduces engineers, designers and developers to “need knowers”, to collaborate and create product prototypes that address everyday problems faced by people with disabilities.

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ave you ever considered the difficulty of managing a video camera while using crutches? How would you control your computer using only your feet? Problems like these can be an everyday challenge for people with disabilities. This is where the TOM Makeathon steps into the innovation breach.

Images courtesy Tikkun Olam Makers

Global organisation Tikkun Olam Makers (TOM) originated three years ago with the not-for-profit Reut Group in Israel. Its goal is to positively affect the lives of 250 million people within a decade.

She immediately set about organising the first Australian Makeathon, held in Melbourne in 2016 in partnership with corporate, philanthropic and government sponsors and partners, including Australian Unity and Swinburne University.

Cameron Holland, Australian Unity’s Executive General Manager Home and Disability Services, says: “As a provider of NDIS services, Australian Unity shares the same goals as TOM – to support people with a disability to achieve their goals.”

Each time a solution is created, it’s shared with the world through the opensource platform.”

The second Melbourne Makeathon was held in KYL I E A P P E L, December last year and coincided P R O J E C T MA N AG E R, with the International Day of TO M: M E L B O U R N E People with Disability. It brought Since 2014, TOM’s worldwide together 11 teams of engineers, designers Makeathons – where people collaborate and developers with “need knowers” – the over three days to develop assistive technologies people who know what they need but don’t possess the addressing specific everyday problems for people technical skills to make it happen. with disabilities – have produced more than 250 Kylie Appel, project manager of TOM: Melbourne, selected product prototypes. volunteer makers based on their craft and skills.

Debbie Dadon AM, philanthropist and Chair of the “We typically get engineers, designers, programmers, Besen Family Foundation, first encountered TOM at a technology professionals, allied health professionals, Makeathon in Tel Aviv in 2015. hobbyists and so on,” Kylie says.

“The opportunity to bring together volunteers from “Teams of around 10 people are then allocated a challenge the engineering, technology and health industries to and work as a team alongside their ‘need knower’.” work on a challenge put forward by a person with a The inventions refined over the weekend sometimes disability or their carer over an intensive three days offer practical solutions and all enhance quality of life. g was very compelling,” Debbie says.

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INSIGHT

One “need knower”, media student Amy Marks from Melbourne, who has cerebral palsy, worked with her team to create a camera she can use while operating her crutches, and Beau Vernon’s new golf club grip is giving him greater independence in his pursuit of outdoor activities.

Beau Vernon has tested his product at the driving range with success and is looking forward to taking it out on the course; (opposite) Mandy McCracken and her team’s device is both easy to use and sleek in design.

“I love watching the makers in action,” Kylie says. “It’s also fantastic that each time a solution is created, it’s shared with the world through the open-source platform.

“Anyone can download and use the design files.

TOM solves real-life problems that have no market or government solutions. Need knowers can then take the solutions home to experience immediate differences in their daily lives.” ^

A GRIP IDEA BEAU VERNON is an outdoorsy guy who gets out when he can.

For golfing, Beau, who lives at Phillip Island in Victoria, could use a specialised wheelchair that would raise him up to take a swing, but lack of movement in his hands meant he couldn’t hold the club. Beau pitched the idea of a golf club grip to the 2017 TOM: Melbourne Makeathon.

“My team was wonderful to work with,” Beau says. “They’d have an idea, I’d have my say, and through trial and error, we made a suitable product.”

The resulting device, a glove with metal brackets, holds the club firmly in place on Beau’s arms while he takes his shot. He’s used it at a driving range with success but not yet on the course.

“I haven’t been to Sandhurst [golf club] as much as I’d like,” he confesses, because of the recent birth of his second child. “But I’ve organised to play nine holes with my brother and dad this week.”

Beau’s experience with TOM has been “fantastic”.

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They’d have an idea, I’d have my say, and through trial and error, we made a suitable product.”

B E AU V E R N O N

“The things they come up with can potentially help people around the world. Even though my product isn’t day-today, a lot of people in a similar situation have asked me about the glove so they can get into golf.”

Beau encourages involvement in TOM, both for people with disabilities who want to pitch ideas and the teams of engineers, designers, occupational therapists and other specialists who volunteer their time over the Makeathon.

“I once went to a conference where they said the biggest thing that makes people happier is giving. I’ve got no doubt that the people who were there helping people with disabilities really loved the experience as well.

“It’s awesome to be surrounded by these people. It makes you want to be a better person.”

Images courtesy Tikkun Olam Makers

“I’m a quadriplegic, and I do a bit of surfing on my stomach on a powered surfboard. It’s great, but if I want to go I’m so reliant on my mates. I’d love to play golf, too, and not have to rely so much on other people. That way we can all enjoy our game, have a little bit of competition and a laugh.”

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INSIGHT

PRETTY CLEVER MANDY McCRACKEN left the first TOM: Melbourne Makeathon in 2016 with a life-changing bicycle.

Mandy, who lives in Kilmore East in Victoria, is a quadruple amputee. “I’d been looking for a bike so I could get back to family outings. I’ve got both legs missing below the knees and my arms missing below the elbows. A regular bike just wasn’t possible for me because of my prosthetics. I needed a tailor-made solution.”

After preliminary meetings to discuss ideas, the TOM: Melbourne team built a bike for Mandy over the three-day Makeathon.

“The bike has given me a bit of life back with the family. We’re able to go out for a ride and a picnic in our part of rural Victoria, which is great,” she says.

Mandy’s daughter, Samantha, 13, says: “I love that we can go back to doing things that we used to do. It’s a bit of normality, to go for family bike rides.”

Mandy brought a new idea to the 2017 Makeathon. “I have a lot of trouble pouring things using my prostheses. To pick up a bottle and pour with my hooks on is near impossible.

People with severe arthritis or cerebral palsy have the same problem.”

Her 2017 team came up with a device that met her criteria of being easy to use and good to look at. “We kept telling the guys in my team to make it sexy! A lot of disability solutions are functional but they’re not pretty.

People who are disabled should be able to have products that look appealing as much as able-bodied people have. I think they did a good job.”

Mandy worked with a team of 14 students to develop the device. “I highly recommend being involved,” she says.

“It’s been absolutely brilliant working with Debbie, Kylie and their team to be part of this whole TOM family.” ^ To learn more about TOM, join a TOM community or see more products, go to tomglobal.org W i n t e r 2 0 1 8 F LOU R I SH

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TOGETHER

Long-distance LEGEND A passion discovered late in life challenged Corrie de Groot for a quarter of a century words Jane Canaway portraits Dean Golja

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s Australians qualify for their Seniors Card, many are looking to slow down and trade high-impact sports for gentler pursuits.

Not so for Australian Unity’s Walmsley Aged Care resident Corrie de Groot, who took up competitive swimming at the age of 56. Within two years she won two gold medals and broke a world record at the inaugural FINA World Masters Championships in Tokyo in 1986.

Inspired, she took up competitive running aged 60 and ran her first Melbourne Marathon at 61 – winning in her age group.

“She has always been active and fit,” says daughter Carole Podt.

“At 90, she still can’t sit still.”

Born in the Netherlands in January 1928, Corrie was a keen skater and gymnast as a child. But moving to Australia in 1957, building a house in Melbourne’s east and caring for her children, Peter and Carole, kept her too busy for sport – especially when she became a single mum.

“It all started when I got married and left home,” says Carole.

That’s when Corrie got her driver’s licence too, aged 56, when there were no kids at home to give her lifts.

“She found the North Lodge Neptunes Masters Swimming Club and loved it,” says Carole. “She’s always been good at long-distance swimming, especially breaststroke.”

Corrie’s build and mental strength also turned out to be perfect for long-distance running, and she soon had a regular routine.

“Three times a week she would go for a long run first thing in the morning before breakfast for about an hour,” Carole remembers. g

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TOGETHER

She loved competing in the annual Melbourne Marathon, the Great Train Race against Puffing Billy and with the Croydon Vic Vets Athletics Club.”

C A R O L E P O DT, CO R R I E D E G R O OT ’S DAU G H T E R

Corrie shows off one of her many medals at home at Walmsley Aged Care; (opposite, top to bottom) Corrie’s favourite photo of herself, competing in the Alice Springs Masters Games; her world record in swimming, set in Japan in 1986.

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TOGETHER

Once she started running, you couldn’t stop her.”

C A R O L E P O DT, CO R R I E D E G R O OT ’S DAU G H T E R

“Then most afternoons she would swim, completing a leisurely 80 laps or so.”

At 50 metres a lap, that’s four kilometres a day.

“On the days she didn’t run, she would ride her pushbike for hours.”

Sport filled Corrie’s social life too, and she competed in fun runs whenever she could, travelling to competitions locally and overseas.

At 75, she broke the Victorian, Australian and world records for running a mile (1.6 kilometres) – then set a new Australian record in the 1500 metres.

“She had a trophy room just packed with medals and awards,” Carole says.

“She loved competing in the annual Melbourne Marathon, the Great Train Race against Puffing Billy and with the Croydon Vic Vets Athletics Club.”

Australian Masters Athletics confirms that Corrie still holds the world records for the women’s 75 years (W75) 1.6-kilometre and one-hour runs; the Australian record for W75 10-kilometre run; and the Victorian records for 400 metres, 1500 metres and the half marathon in the W75 category.

Corrie was fiercely competitive, always striving to beat her own personal best or crack a new record.

In swimming, she set seven records across three age groups in state and national competitions.

“Once she started running, you couldn’t stop her,” Carole says.

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Over her 26-year “sporting career”, she held Victorian, Australian and world records – often over multiple age groups. Some still stand.

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TOGETHER

(Clockwise from opposite) A special moment remembering achievements with daughter Carole; hours of training became part of Corrie’s routine; carrying the Olympic torch in 2000; with Carole at Walmsley Aged Care.

That’s in addition to the world record her team set in Japan in 1986 for the 200-metre mixed medley.

Corrie still holds the 800-metre breaststroke record in Victoria from 1993, set when she was 65.

“She is in her early 70s in this photo, competing at the biennial Alice Springs Masters Games, which was her favourite, always coming home with a bag full of medals – mostly gold.” ^

Over the years, Corrie competed in New Zealand, Canada and the US, and carried the Olympic torch during its Australian relay in 2000.

Corrie’s Records

At 82, she was still running half marathons, but that year she had a bad fall and never fully recovered.

Sadly, the grandmother of three and greatgrandmother of two now suffers from dementia, so doesn’t remember her achievements. She moved to Walmsley Aged Care in Kilsyth about 18 months ago and still loves to walk.

“Mum’s favourite photo is the one where she is running through the desert,” Carole says.

World records W75 1.6-kilometre and one-hour runs Australian record W75 10-kilometre run Victorian records W75 400 metres, 1500 metres and half-marathon W i n t e r 2 0 1 8 F LOU R I SH

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DISCOVER

The world at our fingertips Thanks to a Queensland fundraising initiative, the world’s first braille globe will be preserved for a new generation words Lachean Humphreys

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n ingenious world globe designed for visually impaired children in the 1950s is to be recreated using

digital technology.

The original globe, made of wood and aluminium, with braille letters punched into the aluminium, is the last of its kind. Its design allows children to understand the shapes, sizes and locations of landmasses and oceans.

The globe was recently on show in State Library of Queensland’s (SLQ)Magnificent Makers exhibition.

A Queensland Library Foundation crowd-funding initiative, which raised $10,000, has ensured the invention will become available for visionimpaired children of a new generation.

The globe’s inventor, Richard “Frank” Tunley, was known as the “fairy godfather of blind children”.

While few people may recognise his name today, the Queensland small business owner, who made window blinds for a living, spent his life working at his true passion: to improve education for the blind and visually impaired.

The original globe, made from wood and aluminium, with slide-out index boards. (Opposite, top to bottom) Frank working on a bagatelle game for children from Brisbane School for the Blind, 1950; detail of the numbering system on the world globe.

From the 1920s Frank was voluntarily involved with a local deaf and blind school, now

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DISCOVER

“Once the globe is 3D printed, we will be able to let people use it once more in the way it was intended.

A N N A T H U R G O O D, S TAT E L I B R A RY O F Q U E E N S L A N D

Narbethong State Special School in Brisbane, and was politically active. He lobbied to make education compulsory for blind and deaf children in Queensland and saw this law passed in 1924.

corresponds to numbers on a series of ‘index’ boards fitted into slots in the globe’s stand.

Frank also made models, toys and games. These handmade items were used around Australia in the 1960s and, with help from the Queensland Braille Map and Model Club, were sent – free of charge – to schools for the blind all over the world.

The funds raised will be used to preserve the original globe and create high-resolution 3D scans. Using photogrammetry analysis, where measurements are taken from photographs to record complicated 3D designs, photographs of the globe will be taken from multiple angles to create a precise rendering of the original.

Images courtesy John Oxley Library, SLQ

In 1953, Frank was presented a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to the visually impaired. He continued his important work until his death in 1968, aged 89.

Anna Thurgood, Engagement Officer with the Queensland Memory Team at SLQ, says the original globe must be protected for future generations, which meant people were not allowed to touch it during the exhibition.

“The braille on the globe has almost been worn smooth by hundreds of children’s hands touching and ‘reading’ it over all the years it was used by Narbethong State Special School,” Anna says.

“Mr Tunley used a numbering system because he realised he wouldn’t be able to fit every country’s’ name on the globe’s exterior,” Anna says. “Each country has a number that

“You find the number and read the country’s name and a short phrase or description of the country.”

The recorded measurements can then be entered into a 3D printer, with new versions created from resin or plastic. Learning notes will be able to be shared internationally – carrying on Frank’s mission to make his inventions available for education around the world.

“Once the globe is 3D printed, we will be able to let people use it once more in the way it was intended,” Anna says. “I’m sure Mr Tunley would be very excited about this innovative use of new technology to carry on his vision for education.” ^

To find out more about Richard Frank Tunley and his creations, go to slq.qld.gov.au

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INSIGHT

It’s worth getting vaccinated, because research shows it can reduce [flu] risk by 50-60 per cent.”

J U DY WO N G AU S T R A L I A N U N I T Y ’S CLINICAL ADVISOR & S TA N DA R D S MA N AG E R

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Sniffle season

Look after yourself and avoid catching a Winter lurgy words Narrelle Harris

I

f there’s someone coughing and sniffling near you this Winter, do your best to politely keep your distance.

Remember, as the cold weather approaches so too does the season for influenza.

After vaccination, our body takes two weeks to develop antibodies. If the flu season begins early, even people who’ve just received a vaccination may develop the flu.”

J U DY WO N G AU S T R A L I A N U N I T Y ’S C L I N I C A L A D V I S O R & S TA N DA R D S MA N AG E R

The 2017 flu season was one of the worst on Australian record and resulted in several deaths. Although the statistics seem alarming, multiple factors possibly contributed to the higher infection rates and the loss of life.

Judy Wong, Australian Unity’s Clinical Advisor and Standards Manager, says one factor was the flu’s earlier-than-usual appearance in 2017.

“After vaccination, our body takes two weeks to develop antibodies. If the flu season begins early, even people who’ve just received a vaccination may develop the flu,” she says.

More diligent reporting to the authorities, particularly by aged care staff and new rapid laboratory testing to confirm diagnoses may also have contributed to the higher statistics.

TAKE ACTION There are plenty of things you can do to arm yourself against colds and the flu this Winter. “Maintaining good general health is the most important,” Judy says.

Eat well, exercise moderately and stay hydrated over the long term. Stress and tiredness can also reduce your immunity, so sleeping well and avoiding stress are both important health factors.

“Then on top of that, protect yourself with vaccination.

It’s very effective when you do both things,” Judy says.

The annual flu vaccination is derived from the strains of flu viruses most likely to cause influenza that year.

This also explains why, despite vaccination, some people still become ill – they might catch a strain not covered by the vaccination.

“Individuals can also vary in how effectively they develop antibodies,” Judy says.

“Nevertheless, it’s worth getting vaccinated, because research shows it can reduce risk by 50-60 per cent.”

Judy further recommends avoiding crowded places and, if you can’t, to practise good hand hygiene – washing with hot water and soap or using antiseptic rub. Avoid anyone showing signs of cold or flu, especially if you already have a lower immunity because of chronic health conditions.

TREATING COLD AND FLU SYMPTOMS Both cold and flu can cause sneezing, sore throat, coughing, muscle aches, general tiredness, loss of appetite and fever. g W i n t e r 2 0 1 8 F LOU R I SH

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INSIGHT

Complications such as pneumonia ... [can] lead to hospitalisation.”

J U DY WO N G AU S T R A L I A N U N I T Y ’S C L I N I C A L A D V I S O R & S TA N DA R D S MA N AG E R

The main difference is in how quickly illness develops, along with the severity and duration of the symptoms.

Common colds begin to worsen over three to four days and last for a week or so. Influenza develops more suddenly and with more acute symptoms: you may get very sick very quickly, and for longer. People with chronic health conditions, small children and older people are particularly vulnerable.

“Flu and colds themselves usually don’t kill people,” Judy says. “It’s the complications such as pneumonia, worsening of pre-existing conditions and associated infections that lead to hospitalisation and mortality.”

If you have a bad cold or think you have the flu, don’t soldier on and risk spreading infection.

Instead, stay at home, get plenty of rest, relieve your symptoms with medications such as antihistamines, decongestants and pain relief for your aches and pains, and drink plenty of water.

Doctors may order antiviral medications, such as Tamiflu, which help relieve the symptoms and shorten the duration of the illness. However, they must be administered within the first 48 hours of the infection to be effective.

If you develop sudden and severe symptoms, if your symptoms worsen rapidly or if you’re in any doubt, seek medical attention. ^

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FLU FOR THOUGHT

In 2017, Australia recorded more than

• •• 221,800 flu-related cases • • In Australia •• there are around

• 13,500 flu-related • •• hospitalisations each year • •• •

WHO IS MOST VULNERABLE?

People with chronic health conditions Small children Older people

WHAT ARE OTHER CONTRIBUTING FACTORS?

Tiredness Poor nutrition Dehydration Stress Lack of exercise

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Sneezing Sore throat Coughing Muscle aches General tiredness Loss of appetite Fever

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TOGETHER

Dancing to a new rhythm Professional dancer Michelle Ryan is changing the way disabilities are represented in performing arts words Lachean Humphreys

photos Shane Reid

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ichelle Ryan begins to dance and as her dance partner lifts her from her wheelchair, her feet hover just off the ground, graceful and ethereal, in a performance that combines beauty, emotion and resilience.

Michelle’s Story, a short film directed by Meryl Tankard, reveals the challenging journey faced by the nowconfident and inspiring woman who is the Artistic Director of Adelaide-based Restless Dance Theatre.

In the 1990s, Michelle was living any 20-something dancer’s dream: performing with some of the best and touring the world.

She had joined the Australian Dance Theatre, under the direction of legendary Australian dancer and choreographer Meryl Tankard, and was on her way to a global career.

“Every work of Meryl’s challenged me as a performer, whether it was aerial work, Bulgarian singing, tap dance, visual illusion or a beautiful movement vocabulary,” Michelle says. With the company, Michelle toured in London, Paris, Tokyo and New York.

In 2000, she was assistant to the choreographer, Meryl Tankard, for Andrew Lloyd Webber’s West End Production of The Beautiful Game and also spent time working in Portugal and Sweden.

Then in 2001, while Michelle was in Berlin, she received a shattering diagnosis from a neurologist: “Very probably MS [multiple sclerosis].”

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“I remember hopping on a train to return to my accommodation in Berlin and I was sobbing – so much so I forgot to buy a train ticket. The inspector let me off because he could see I was distressed,” Michelle says.

MS affects the central nervous system, and nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord become damaged.

Symptoms vary and can affect coordination, cause muscle weakness or trouble with vision and sensation.

With no family history or much knowledge of the condition, Michelle flew back to Australia to be closer to family and friends.

Michelle had begun dancing at the age of four. She grew up in Townsville in Queensland, dancing in front of the television and taking a myriad of ballet, jazz, tap and folk classes.

“From my early years, I remember that dancing always made me happy,” she says.

Aged 17, she had headed off to Brisbane to study dance at Queensland University of Technology.

When she reached her 30s, though, Michelle’s life had changed. “I had lost my career and I had a fear of the future for my health; I wondered how I was going to reinvent myself.”

For the 10 years that followed, she steered away from performing, studying naturopathy and working behind the scenes on creative productions.

In 2009, at the encouragement of a friend, Michelle agreed to make a short dance film. g

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TOGETHER

I had lost my career and I had a fear of the future for my health; I wondered how I was going to reinvent myself.”

Touched image by Andy Rasheed

M I C H E L L E RYA N, A R T I S T I C D I R E C TO R R E S T L E S S DA N C E T H E AT R E

Michelle’s role as Artistic Director combines her passion for dance and her advocacy for inclusivity. (left) The Youth Ensemble performs Touched.

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TOGETHER

I never focus on the disability. It is about making great art with great artists.�

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TOGETHER

“I thought it was a bit crazy as I didn’t think people would be interested in watching me dance now that I had disability,” she says.

Nerve Ending, directed by Peter Humble, saw Michelle return to dance and turn her life around.

Not long after that, she was invited to perform at the 2011 Brisbane Festival. She began seated in the audience and rose, with her walking stick, then picked up a chair and moved to the centre of the stage to begin a solo performance.

“It was terrifying, but once the music started and I began to move, I forgot about all the things I couldn’t do and enjoyed the moment of dancing again,” she says.

Dancers Felicity and Michael; (opposite) Caitlin and Chris take to the stage in a powerful and emotional Restless performance, embodying Michelle’s philosophy of making great art inspired by great artists.

“I remember the Belgian director [of the performance], Alain Platel, asked me afterwards why I didn’t dance any more. He said to me: ‘You are a dancer!’ It made me question why I had stopped dancing for 10 years.”

Michelle then got another gig working in Adelaide, performing with disability advocate Gaelle Mellis.

Again, Michelle was prompted to think about why dancers with disabilities are under-represented on stage and in film and TV.

Michelle’s life and the heartbreak she experienced following what she thought was the end of her dance career. The film premiered at the 2015 Adelaide Film Festival, where it won the audience award for Best Short Film.

“Meryl always created a space where I felt safe to talk about highly personal – and at times confronting – events and relationships. I wouldn’t have been able to do [the film] with any other director.”

The same year, Michelle was inducted into the South Australian Women’s Honour Roll.

In 2013, she came across a job opening with the Restless Dance Theatre. Having worked in the disability sector for several years, but away from the arts, this job seemed to bring these worlds together.

She packed up and moved her life to Adelaide.

Restless’ most recent show, Intimate Space, was performed at the 2017 Adelaide Festival. The production received an Arts South Australia Ruby Award for Innovation, an Adelaide Critics Award and Helpmann and Ruby nominations for Best New Work.

“It was a big move leaving family and friends, but I thought I could make a difference,” Michelle says.

With these accolades, Michelle is placing the company as an important player alongside other mainstream arts organisations.

Restless Dance Theatre produces collaborative and inclusive work guided by the abilities and restraints of people living with disability. The group of both able-bodied and disabled dancers performs short and long works, solos, duets and group pieces to diverse audiences around Australia and the world.

“I never focus on the disability. It is about making great art with great artists,” says Michelle.

She has remained close friends with Meryl, who directed Michelle’s Story, a 30-minute film about

And if Michelle could give her 30-year-old self advice?

“Everyone will have challenges in their life; you just got yours a little earlier than you would have liked.

It doesn’t change who you are and you are no lesser than anyone else because of your challenges.” ^ Restless Dance Theatre will tour Queensland with Intimate Space in 2018 at a date yet to be released. restlessdance.org W i n t e r 2 0 1 8 F LOU R I SH

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TOGETHER

You might not win the Australian Open, but you can still get fit, have friends, get a job, get a girlfriend, get a boyfriend, live the life that you want to live.”

DYL A N A LCOT T, CO - F O U N D E R, G E T S K I L L E D ACC E S S

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Dylan Alcott is a champion of the sporting world, but his proudest achievements lie with his advocacy work.

(Opposite) Dylan, with tennis partner Heath Davidson, won his first doubles grand slam title at this year’s Australian Open.

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TOGETHER

Focus on ABILITY

Disability advocate Dylan Alcott is working with corporations to create a more understanding and inclusive society words Graeme Kemlo

F

resh from winning the Australian Open 2018 Wheelchair Championship, Dylan Alcott is already planning his next sporting conquest: “Banging on the whites and hopefully winning Wimbledon for Australia.”

Dylan, who lives in Melbourne, was born with a tumour wrapped around his spinal cord. During his 27 years he has overcome physical and mental hurdles to become a triple Paralympic gold medallist. It’s clear this inspiring, energetic young man is also chasing even bigger goals – societal change for one.

Dylan co-founded advocacy and training organisation Get Skilled Access in late 2006 to work with governments and corporations to improve their understanding of disability, their customer service and products, and to employ people with disabilities.

Images Getty Images; courtesy Get Skilled Access

Get Skilled Access employs Paralympians to train organisations, believing that successful athletes who have achieved their goals are in an ideal position to influence others.

“In the past it has always been able-bodied people speaking to other able-bodied people about how to understand people with disabilities. And I really want to empower people with disabilities to have their own voice and tell people what they need,” he says.

“Everyone is too scared to ask questions. No-one wants to offend anyone.

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TOGETHER

Dylan says able-bodied employees often feel it is politically incorrect to ask questions about disability.

“So in the end nothing happens … and that’s a real bummer. It alienates people with disabilities even more because they are left out, they aren’t involved.

And the products and services aren’t what they want because everyone’s too afraid to ask questions.

“So my ambition … my whole life … is I want to influence people to be more comfortable about disability.”

Australian Unity is one of the companies Dylan works with and he was invited to participate in a panel on the 2017 International Day of People with Disability in early December. Other panel members included Australian Unity clients Holly Sultana, 13, born with a disorder that severely affects her movement, muscles and joints, and comedian Tim Ferguson, who is living with MS (multiple sclerosis).

“I am really impressed with the work that Australian Unity is doing,” Dylan says. “We’re going to work with them to go through their disability action plan to look at the organisation and the way they can get better in the disability and accessibility space.”

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Dylan says his sporting achievements have given him a voice to speak to people with and without disability. “Not everyone can win a grand slam, an Olympic gold medal or whatever it is, but the thing I am most proud of is that through sport I have tried to really change the way people perceive people with disabilities — and also ablebodied people – to inspire them to do whatever they want to do.”

Ten years ago, the only people who turned up to watch his tennis matches were his parents and brother.

“One million people watched [his Australian Open final] live on TV and there were 10,000 people in the stadium,” he says. “If you’d told me that 10 years ago, there’s no way I would have believed that would happen.

“But the best part was seeing hundreds of kids with disabilities there … more kids with disability than I have ever seen in my life in one spot … how cool is that?

“It just goes to show that their life’s not over because they are disabled. You might not win the Australian Open, but you can still get fit, have friends, get a job, get a girlfriend, get a boyfriend, live the life that you want to live. That’s one of the things that gets me out of bed every day.” g

Images Getty Images; courtesy Get Skilled Access

for people until they do feel they can ask these questions and gain an understanding.”

Dylan says the best part of his 2018 Australian Open win was seeing the hundreds of kids with disability that were able to witness the moment.

(Opposite) Dylan in action at the Australian Open, where he has won the singles title for the past three years.

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INSIGHT

The thing I am most proud of is that through sport I have tried to really change the way people perceive people with disabilities ... to inspire them to do whatever they want to do.�

DYL A N A LCOT T, CO - F O U N D E R, G E T S K I L L E D ACC E S S

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ROLE MODEL FOR A YOUNG ACTIVIST When sharing the stage with Dylan Alcott at the International Day of People with Disability forum last December, Holly Sultana was awestruck by everything Dylan, also wheelchair-bound, had achieved as a dual Olympian and gold medallist in basketball and tennis.

Holly, 13, was born with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita, a debilitating condition that affects every joint in her body. She has sufficient movement in her arms to steer her power wheelchair and she has taught herself to write.

“After I met Dylan, I watched him play tennis on TV and I have kept up to date with all of his social media. I look up to him a lot ... how he deals with disability. His outlook on life I think is so inspiring. I definitely try to follow his path,” Holly says.

Holly, who lives in Sydney, has appeared in a number of photo shoots and publicity campaigns for Australian Unity. She was invited to speak alongside Dylan at the forum, which focused on how society can strive for inclusivity through the removal of physical, technological and attitudinal barriers for people with disability.

Holly underwent a number of operations as a child at Westmead Children’s Hospital, and she has been an activist since 2012 when she was named ambassador for the hospital’s Bandaged Bear Appeal.

She loves being in her specially built pool that allows her to bob around in water just below her neck: it gives her a feeling of freedom. Holly dreams of going to Hawaii and Los Angeles, and has her sights on a career in interior design.

Holly, who has three siblings, receives in-home personal care

services, such as showering and dressing, from Australian Unity.

Does she believe people understand what it is to live with disability? “No, I don’t think people really understand when they see someone like me in public ... they aren’t really educated about it.”

Is that something she would like to change? “Yes, it is. I think kids these days are not educated about disability, so yeah, that is something I would like to change.”

What does Dylan think? “Holly is still at school and she is young ... but I want Holly to come on board with us and start getting heard, getting what she believes in into our content and ideas.

“I was just so very impressed about her understanding at such a young age, not only of her own situation but also of other people’s.” ^

I don’t think people really understand when they see someone like me in public … they aren’t really educated about it.”

H O L LY S U LTA N A, D I S A B I L I T Y A D V O C AT E

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Holly Sultana with Dylan Alcott at the International Day of People with Disability forum, hosted by Australian Unity last December.

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DISCOVER

The grass is

GREENER Players of all ages and abilities are discovering the benefits of low-impact sports words Graeme Kemlo

G

entle exercise, social opportunities and a bit of friendly rivalry. What’s not to like about low-impact sports?

Image iStockphoto

Across the generations, Australian interest in lawn bowls, bocce, pétanque and other low-impact sports is growing.

A 2024 Paris Olympics bid by Confédération Mondiale des Sports de Boules for pétanque, the French national game, has had some impact, say some participants.

Others say it’s all about the growing opportunity to enjoy lively company in the great outdoors.

The uniquely Melbourne game, trugo, is winning new fans too.

MELBOURNE LOVES TRUGO John McMahon, Treasurer of the Victorian Trugo Association, says participant numbers have grown dramatically in the past 12 months. The organisation now has clubs in the suburbs of Ascot Vale, Brunswick, Footscray, Port Melbourne, Sandridge, South Melbourne and Yarraville. g

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(Clockwise from top left) In trugo, players use a mallet to propel a rubber ring between goal posts; bocce and lawn bowls are accessible to all; variations can be enjoyed by the whole family.

“Young kids are trying it – two- to four-yearolds – using little mallets and they get the gist of it, but most players are between 60 and 90 years old,” John says.

While some credit Melbourne as the birthplace of Aussie Rules football, the truth of this is contested.

But the city can lay claim to having invented trugo.

“With Paris having the Olympics in 2024, there’s a lot of lobbying to get bocce in as part of those games.

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This unique game, played on a 27.5-metre lawn rink, uses a mallet swung between the legs to propel a rubber ring (initially a rail-carriage shock absorber) between goal posts 1.7 metres apart.

It was devised in 1926 at Newport railway workshops in Melbourne’s west. The lunchtime pastime was formalised when clubs set up in nearby suburbs from 1936.

Trugo is accessible to almost anyone of any age, with most players swinging the one-kilogram wooden mallet between their legs woodchop-style.

Sideswiping is also allowed and can suit players with disabilities.

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At a glance

TRUGO

A Melbourne invention, Trugo is played on a 27.5-metre lawn rink. Players use a mallet swung between the legs to propel a rubber ring between two goal posts. The player or team with the most goals at the end of play, wins.

John says there’s a strong social element to trugo, particularly on Tuesdays with tea and cakes postgame, and there’s an open invitation to come and try.

Some clubs offer twilight and weekend games and most clubrooms can be hired for private functions.

Images iStockphoto, Alamy, Shawn Smits

BOCCE IS BOOMING Lawn bowls, which dates back to the 13th century, might be the most popular lawn sport. It boasts global participation in the multi-millions and more than 500,000 competition and social players in Australia. But a different game of bowls pre-dates it: bocce is said to have begun during Caesar’s time in ancient Rome.

Frank Funari, President of Bocce Australia, has noticed an uptake in his favourite game by under35s. His association promotes the game to juniors (under-35) and to schools.

“With Paris having the Olympics in 2024, there’s a lot of lobbying to get bocce in as part of those games,” Frank says. g

BOCCE

Bocce is typically played on gravel with large balls made from brass or resin, although they were traditionally made from wood. Players roll the ball with the intention of landing it closest to a smaller ball called the jack.

PÉTANQUE

Pétanque means “steeled feet”, and is played with smaller metal balls than bocce. Players throw the ball towards the small wooden “cochonnet”, keeping their feet still within a ring, with the aim of landing their ball closest to the cochonnet.

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“We are also pushing into schools, and the kids we can get involved now will be the right age if we make it into the Olympics. We recently presented to about 30 Victorian physical education teachers. They were pretty keen on it because it is very good for young kids [aged six to early teens] and their armeye coordination.”

Bocce is played on gravel with larger brass balls while pétanque uses smaller metal balls. Another variation, raffa, is played with synthetic, coloured-resin balls.

Frank says that if bocce becomes an Olympic sport, “the most likely variation will be a fast game, Bocce Smash Rapid Throw, which, like Twenty20 cricket, is a running game: more athletic”.

“The resin balls bounce, so players need to be very precise in aiming for the jack or pallino [bullet],” he says.

PÉTANQUE STEALS HEARTS Terry Dando, Secretary of the Pétanque Federation of Australia, says the organisation has 1680 registered members, plus another 5000-6000 social players in up to 70 clubs around Australia.

“Of the registered players, only about 60 are aged under 20; the majority would be 40-plus,” he says.

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It is accessible to all ages and abilities. “If you are in a wheelchair, you can still play, as long as you have one wheel in the circle,” Terry says.

Except in major competitions, players measure their own shots to determine who is nearest to the cochonnet.

Asked if there were any punch-ups over the result, Terry laughed. “Only in France, but they are very serious. They play for anything from 20,000 to 50,000 euros, whereas here we play for a box of chocolates.” ^ To find out more and to get involved, go to trugo.org.au, boccevictoria.com or petanquefederationaustralia.com

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Image Getty Images

“We are also pushing into schools, and the kids we can get involved now will be the right age if we make it into the Olympics.

Pétanque means “steeled feet”. Players must throw the ball underhand at the “cochonnet” (little pig), keeping their feet still within a ring.

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(Opposite) Primary school-age children will be ready for the 2024 Olympics, if bocce is included. (This page) Competition was high between Australian Unity’s Campbell Place and Peninsula Grange retirement communities.

TEAMWORK AT THE INAUGURAL AUSTRALIAN UNITY BOWLING TOURNAMENT THEY NAMED their team The Misfits and

boasted little experience at lawn bowls, but the team from Campbell Place Retirement Community had a game plan for the inaugural Australian Unity Bowling Tournament.

The Cup, a lawn bowls tournament for over-50s, attracted six teams from Australian Unity retirement communities across Victoria, with $1000 up for grabs for their community resident budget.

Before the tournament, one Campbell Place team member summed up the mood: “I think we’ve got two chances: Buckley’s and none.”

But their coach Margaret, recognising they might be “severely lacking in skills”, had a strategy: “Be competitive, be friendly and be nice to everybody.”

The team also adopted the philosophy: “Just have a great time on the day.” But maybe they had heard that the group from Peninsula Grange had 60 active bowlers and was bringing along a team of 20.

The final went to Peninsula Grange, but the Campbell Place team had the final word: “We won four ends out of 24, which is four more than we thought we would win, so we have over-achieved by 200 per cent.”

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INSIGHT

The R factor

Sometimes it’s the little things that make a difference. The Resilience Project is teaching children the secrets to happiness words Johanna Leggatt

H

ugh van Cuylenburg travels the country speaking to schools, sporting clubs and corporate clients about a skill that has become critical to thriving in our modern world – resilience.

It’s an issue that preoccupies Hugh and many educators and professionals who work with children: how to build resilience among young people who seem to have it all, yet suffer from anxiety and mental health issues.

“It’s a big problem and one that shocked me when I started working as a teacher,” Hugh says.

“I thought, ‘There is something here that I need to learn off these people’,” he says.

Hugh came to realise there were three things that made the students happier: gratitude, empathy and mindfulness, or what Hugh now dubs the GEM model.

But that is the thing about resilience; you have to keep going.”

He was supposed to stay for a fortnight, but what he found in Tickse – a town with no running water, no electricity and few modern comforts – was so astonishing that he extended his stay to almost four months.

“They showed gratitude every day by stopping to point out things they felt lucky to have,” he says.

“One boy I got particularly close to would say ‘dis’ (he couldn’t pronounce the ‘th’) and point at whatever made him happy.

He would do it when he was talking to his friends, pointing and saying ‘dis’ to tell me that he was lucky to have these people in his life.”

H U G H VA N C U YL E N B U R G, THE RESILIENCE PROJECT

“The people had very little, they slept on the floor, but they were so happy, calm and present,” Hugh says.

“When you spoke to the children, they were there with you. They weren’t on phones or looking around for the next thing to happen.

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Hugh wanted to try to understand what made these local primary school students so much happier than his Australian charges.

When Hugh returned home in 2009, he took a job teaching high school students at an elite Melbourne school but he suffered a severe case of “reverse culture shock”. g

Images courtesy The Resilience Project

His career change was sparked almost a decade ago when he headed to the remote region of Ladakh, in northern India, to volunteer at a school.

“There was one child who cut the tops of his shoes open so his growing toes would have room, and he thought he was so lucky to have shoes because a lot of kids didn’t.”

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INSIGHT

Hugh van Cuylenburg was shocked to realise anxiety and mental health issues were prevalent among his students, inspiring him to get The Resilience Project off the ground.

Hugh has adapted the project for NRL and AFL clubs, and corporate clients.

1 in 7 primary school kids experience mental ill-health

1 in 5 THE GEM MODEL Hugh van Cuylenburg’s model focuses on three important actions.

G ratitude E mpathy M indfulness

The quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.

The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

A mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique.

adults will experience mental health problems this year

1 in 4

adolescents experience mental ill-health

65%

of adolescents will not seek help for mental illness

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INSIGHT

MIND FIT A POSITIVE OUTLOOK ISN’T ACHIEVED OVERNIGHT. IT TAKES PRACTICE AND PERSISTENCE

When Stacey Copas was 12 years old, she jumped into a pool, her legs a little straighter than usual, and broke her neck.

“I now see what occurred as an opportunity to look at life in a different way, to flip my thinking,” she says.

She slipped to the bottom, immobile and unable to cry out for help, until her brother realised she wasn’t joking but drowning.

“I see it as an amazing opportunity to connect with people, and I think now that I have a responsibility to share my story.”

Stacey recovered, but was told by doctors she would never walk again.

Stacey has since launched her Academy of Resilience business, which involves talking to corporate clients about how to harness resilience in their lives. She gave a talk to Australian Unity team members in November last year.

How does someone, especially a child as athletic and ambitious as Stacey had been, learn to cope with that?

“On the outside I think I pretended that everything was OK, but for many years in my teens I was in a deep, dark place,” says Stacey, 39.

Slowly, but gradually, as she progressed through her 20s, her perspective changed.

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She has also written a book, How to be Resilient, and is an ambassador for the Layne Beachley Foundation, Aim for the Stars.

After taking up athletics again at 34, Stacey won a state title in discus and a silver discus medal at the Australian championships, and

Resilience is definitely something that can be learned.”

S TAC E Y CO PA S, AC A D E M Y O F RESILIENCE

until recently – before a lack of time got in the way of training – was hell-bent on qualifying for the Paralympics.

Her philosophy, in its simplest form, is best described as “not taking anything for granted”.

“It’s not letting the little things bother you and, when things do go wrong, asking yourself what you can learn from it, what the opportunity is,” she says.

“Resilience is definitely something that can be learned, but like going to the gym and building muscle, it takes repetition and practice.

“It’s simple, but it isn’t easy.” ^

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INSIGHT

“You had children with lots of advantages in life and yet they were still struggling with mental health issues,” he says.

“They displayed a lot of anxiety; you had children who would cry when they dropped their lunch.”

Hugh decided to put into action the lessons he had learned in India by developing The Resilience Project, an Australian Unity-sponsored program designed to help children develop inner strength and wellbeing.

“I was also inspired by my sister, who was diagnosed with anorexia nervosa when she was 14 but has since recovered,” he says.

“It took a huge toll on my family, and part of the reason I wanted to start the project was so that I could maybe stop someone else going down the same road.”

Nevertheless, the schools took some convincing.

“I pitched it to schools for a good 18 months, almost two years, before getting anywhere,” he says.

Then in 2013, Hugh spoke at a regional Victorian conference in front of 52 state school principals and a flood of bookings followed. It’s been a packed calendar ever since.

Images courtesy The Resilience Project

There is some irony to just how hard Hugh had to work to get The Resilience Project off the ground – the persistence needed, the determination in the face of rejection, all of which equated to a form of on-thejob learning.

“I felt like a phony at times because here I was pitching resilience and, of course, some days I was feeling quite flat,” he says.

“But that is the thing about resilience; you have to keep going.”

The project involves Hugh – or fellow resilience speaker Martin Heppell – sharing stories on the nature of wellbeing, intestinal fortitude and happiness with both primary and high school students, staff and even parents.

The Resilience Project is now also an app, available as a download for iTunes and Android. The app works as a daily wellbeing journal, prompting users to identify emotions and record moments.

There is a dedicated journal that children are encouraged to use, and the psychology of resilience is worked into the school’s curriculum.

“I don’t actually use the word resilience when I talk, as I see that as an adult word,” Hugh says.

“It’s about teaching kids to be a little bit happier through sharing my story and being vulnerable.”

The Resilience Project has also been adapted for adults and delivered to all NRL clubs, most AFL teams and a handful of corporate clients.

Most recently, a daily wellbeing journal has been produced in app form that prompts users to identify their emotions and record moments of gratitude.

Hugh is often asked where he sees the project in five or 10 years’ time, but he doesn’t have a firm plan.

“I just have to focus on being good at what I do right now and being in the moment and five years’ time will take care of itself,” he says. ^ To find out more, go to theresilienceproject.com.au

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HOME CARE PACKAGES

INSIGHT

A FOCUS on

you

A Home Care Package can offer flexible, tailored support to individuals and their carers

DO YOU NEED a bit of extra help keeping your home clean? Or would you like someone to take you on a weekly outing? Are you caring for a loved one whose needs have increased?

Wendy Burdack, an Australian Unity Home Care Package specialist, says government-funded Home Care Packages have been designed to keep more Australians in their own homes for longer.

Whether you or your loved one are already receiving home care services, or whether your needs have changed, having the flexibility to seek assistance when you need it is an important key to maintaining your independence.

“Home Care Package clients remain active and independent in their community, continue to meet new people with similar interests and continue to be satisfied with their lives,” Wendy says.

AGEING POPULATION Australia’s population is ageing. In 2016, the Australian Bureau of Statistics reported that around 15 per cent (3.7 million) of the nation’s population was aged 65 and over. This number is expected to double by 2057.

“The Australian Government has changed the way support is delivered to older Australians.

These changes are important for a sustainable and quality aged care system that is more consumerdriven, market-based and less regulated,” Wendy says.

“Our nation benefits from Home Care Packages. Individuals, families and carers are able to use it to promote wellbeing and independence.”

Home Care Packages are funded by the Federal Government and available to all eligible Australians who have been assessed by My Aged Care, the Australian Government support service for aged care.

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“They are able to actively use and share their valuable skills and maintain their feelings of self-worth.”

The level of funding support for an individual is determined by an assessment from the Aged Care Assessment Team (Aged Care Assessment Service in Victoria) following a referral for an assessment

by My Aged Care.

INDIVIDUAL RESPECT Australian Unity home care services takes the time to get to know their client, and then tailor a Home Care Package to meet each individual’s skills, goals, abilities and experiences.

Home Care Packages can also be used to assist someone to gain new skills or reach a particular goal that has been identified as part of their support plan.

“Our goal is to allow each person to lead and be in control of their package and their independent day-to-day life as much as possible,” Wendy says.

CARE AND CONCERN

Very often, though, carers are the ones who need support but don’t know they can ask for it or what is available.

“Carers who were reluctantly looking at placing their life-long partner or someone special they care for into residential care, report that the assistance provided through their Home Care Package has made a huge difference,” Wendy says.

“In many instances carers have reported that personal-care assistance – such as getting a loved one out of bed, washing, toileting and dressing them in the morning – has made such a huge difference that they now feel their caring role is sustainable.”

TYPES OF SERVICES Home Care Packages can include services such as personal care, support with household chores such as cooking, cleaning

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INSIGHT

Dorothy Browning (pictured, left) says team member Mary (right) was “a godsend” when she received her funding in January, and opted for support from Australian Unity home care services.

and laundry, home and garden maintenance, pet care, assistance to maintain social connections, and transport (see right).

Home Care Package funds can also be used to provide equipment and make modifications to the home environment to support independent living.

When creating a tailored support plan, an Australian Unity team member will sit with the client to learn what’s important to them, what might improve their day-to-day life, what they enjoy and what they need to remain independent and safe in their own home.

This could involve a visit from an occupational therapist or some minor home modifications.

Image Tayla Martin

Australian Unity home care services also aims to reconnect people with

their community: they might like to join (or rejoin) a garden club, or play bowls, bingo or cards.

“We will ask what they might need in order to participate; it might be transport, equipment or someone to come with them to the first few meetings,” Wendy says.

CHANGED NEEDS Home Care Package clients can change their support plan to reflect any changes in circumstances or priorities.

If clients become unwell and need additional services, their care coordinator will meet them to discuss options. Surplus funds in a client’s Home Care Package budget could be used for additional services.

Australian Unity home care services offers a broad range of services, and if there is something we can’t provide ourselves, we will do the best to find it for you.

To find out more phone 1300 160 170 or visit australianunity.com.au/hds

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE SUPPORT SERVICES COVERED IN A HOME CARE PACKAGE? Assisted Living Flexible, dignified support with everyday activities in the comfort of your own home.

Home & Community Qualified nursing care to support your health at home.

Out & About Flexible support for you in your community so you can enjoy activities and time with friends and family.

Home Beautiful Basic or more detailed cleaning services for around your home.

My Home, My Garden Home and garden maintenance services to keep your home the way you like it.

Happy Pets Regular, loving care for your furry friend.

Healthy Body & Mind Flexible allied healthcare delivered at home so you can stay fit and healthy.

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NSW Wagga Wagga

NO PLACE LIKE HOME Support from Australian Unity home care services has put Dorothy Browning’s mind at ease, knowing she can maintain her independence while recovering from knee surgery.

Dorothy loves her garden almost as much as she loves her family of seven children, 19 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

But, aged 76, she was finding it difficult to maintain her sprawling garden and lawn, set over a double block in Wagga Wagga in New South Wales.

“I’ve been 25 years in the same house and I’m going to stay here till the end of my days,” she says.

was a godsend,” Dorothy says. “Now I can recover fully knowing that I have the package.”

Being able to access transport for appointments and shopping will give me back the independence I had 10 years ago.”

Dorothy accesses a range of supports through her package including two hours of cleaning every fortnight, plus taxis to take her to and from her medical and physiotherapy appointments.

“Being able to D O R OT HY B R OW N I N G, access transport for H O M E C A R E PAC K AG E R E C I P I E N T appointments and When Dorothy had shopping will give me back complications after a total knee the independence I had 10 replacement operation in 2016 – years ago,” she says. “Having the related to getting polio when she was gardening added to my package has 11 – she became worried about how she could been extremely satisfying. I used to try and maintain her independence. keep up with the weeds, but it was a losing battle.”

“Luckily my family stepped in to help, but I wanted to stay Dorothy’s cottage garden is her pride and joy. It at home without relying totally on my family,” she says. includes 200 varieties of iris, many roses and beds Dorothy received funding for a Level 3 Home Care Package in January and signed up to get support from Australian Unity home care services, which she says “has changed my life”.

“Mary from Australian Unity home care services

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framed by box hedges.

“Without the assistance offered by Australian Unity home care services I would have been housebound and relying totally on my family,” she says.

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INSIGHT

Nyngan

NSW

THE ANGELS OF NYNGAN Tailored home care services mean Maureen Walters can keep her home and garden in order, and enjoy outings with friends and family.

When the doorbell rings about 7am each day at Maureen Walters’ home in the small central New South Wales town of Nyngan, she can’t stop smiling.

That’s because standing at her front door will be Maxine or Krista, two carers from Australian Unity’s home care services; women she calls her “angels”.

Maureen, 75, has poor mobility and a range of health issues including diabetes and respiratory problems. She uses a walking stick or walker to get around her home, but needs a mobility scooter to go beyond her letterbox.

She was able to pay for the purchase of a new nebuliser through her Home Care Package funding.

You are not just a person to them, you are like part of their extended family.”

M AU R E E N WA LT E R S, H O M E C A R E PAC K AG E R E C I P I E N T

“I look forward to the knock on the door every morning. They are the most wonderful girls … angels,” says Maureen.

“You are not just a person to them, you are like part of their extended family. Without them I would have to go into care or go and live with my daughter.

Images Tayla Martin

having her lawns mowed. Maureen could also request shopping trips and to be taken to church, but she opts to have friends take her on those outings.

“My daughter is a delight, but she and her husband have a right to their independence and life together.”

Maureen’s Home Care Package services include supervised showers daily, weekly home cleaning and

“They take great care of me.

A few months ago, I had a fall and said it was nothing, but they [Maxine and Krista] called the district nurse and got me checked out,” Maureen says. “The thing I like about [Australian Unity home care services] is you are able to nominate who you want to come and care for you.

“Australian Unity home care services suits me very well because it has an office in Nyngan. If I have a problem, all I have to do is phone up and they fix it.”

The mother of two daughters and grandmother to two adult grandchildren, Maureen grew up around Wollongong before marrying and moving to Sydney. She moved to Nyngan 26 years ago.

Although Maureen says her health has deteriorated “as the years have gone by”, she is never bored. She keeps busy doing crossword puzzles, Sudoku, playing computer games and listening to audio books. And few things make her happier than that early morning knock at the door.

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INSIGHT NSW St Georges Basin

SWEET SANCTUARY Colin Holmes, 86, and his wife Jean, 83, have lived in their St Georges Basin home in New South Wales for 22 years – and they intend to keep it that way. Support they receive from a Home Care Package is designed to help them do just that.

Staying in his own home eases the pain of ageing.

Before Christmas, Colin, who recently had a mild stroke, received an electronic lounge room chair/ recliner as part of his Home Care Package. He needs a walker to get around the house, and an electric wheelchair outside, including going into the back garden to tend to his pet cockatiels.

Colin grew up in Jannali in Sydney’s Sutherland Shire and started work as a teenager at soap manufacturers Kitchen & Sons.

He has worked as a truck driver (collecting bones and suet from butchers’ shops for rendering into soap and tallow), a railway worker, a farm labourer, a handyman, and with the Sydney Water Board.

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It was while he was a security guard at the Bank of New South Wales in Sydney that he met Jean, a waitress in the bank’s cafeteria.

“I’m looking around and I spotted her and that was it,” he says.

“I went to meet her mother and she asked me what my intentions were, so I told her I wanted to marry Jean.”

Jean, who had three children from a previous marriage, and Colin married. They have a son and a daughter. Today they have 10 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

“My life with Jean is heaven,” Colin says. “She looks after me very well.”

Colin says he was “pretty tough” once, but damage to his peripheral nervous system has led to chronic, unrelenting neuropathic pain. Staying in his own home eases the pain of ageing, he says.

Image Jonah Blue Photography

Colin has a Level 2 Home Care Package and has his support services delivered

by Australian Unity home care services. Weekly assistance includes shopping assistance and a bus that takes Colin to the Sanctuary Point Country Club for lunch once a week. A monthly shopping trip to Nowra is also part of the package.

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HOME CARE PACKAGES

INSIGHT

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS HOW CAN I APPLY FOR A HOME CARE PACKAGE?

IS THE LETTER FROM MY AGED CARE IMPORTANT?

Australian Unity home care services can make a referral for an assessment to My Aged Care on your behalf and help you prepare for your assessment. We can also assist you with some support services during this time. Phone us on 1300 160 170 to get started. You can also request an assessment yourself by contacting My Aged Care on 1800 200 422.

Yes. After your assessment, a letter from My Aged Care will tell you if you’ve been approved to receive funding and, if so, what level. This letter contains your unique referral code, which starts with a 1- and is in a box.

If approved, this letter will also tell you that you are on a national waitlist and that you will receive a second letter when your funding becomes available.

If you have a preferred service provider, such as Australian Unity home care services, you can let My Aged Care know when requesting your assessment. The benefit of doing this is that when your Home Care Package funding becomes available, we will also be informed and can contact you to start organising your support plan.

WHAT ARE THE FOUR LEVELS OF CARE FOR A HOME CARE PACKAGE? Level 1 - basic support Level 2 - low-level support Level 3 - intermediate support Level 4 - high-level support

I’VE RECEIVED THE SECOND LETTER, AND IT HAS A LOT OF INFORMATION IN IT. WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR? This letter will inform you that your Home Care Package funding is now available and provide you with a date by which you need to select a service provider and enter into a Home Care Package service agreement.

You have 56 days to enter into this agreement. If you need extra time to pick a service provider, you can call My Aged Care and receive a 28-day extension.

The letter also recommends that you arrange for a formal income assessment to be completed by the Department of Human Services (DHS) by calling 1800 227 475.

• Each level provides a different funding

WHAT SHOULD I DO WHEN I RECEIVE THE LETTER FROM MY AGED CARE?

• Your level and funding amount increase as

Call your local Australian Unity home care services branch or 1300 160 170.

• The funding is known as your Home Care

Please make sure you have the following information available when you call:

amount.

your needs increase.

Package. You can use this funding to pay for the support services you require to remain living independently in your own home.

• Your government funding is not paid

directly to you, but to your chosen home care service provider.

If you require additional services that are not covered by your funding, you can purchase these on a fee-for-service basis.

1. Your name 2. Address 3. Date of birth 4. A ged Care number (on your letter and beginning with AC) 5.

Unique My Aged Care referral code (in the box and beginning with 1-).

If you would like more information about Home Care Packages or would like Australian Unity home care services to make a referral to My Aged Care on your behalf, please phone 1300 160 170.

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BALANCE

The secrets of FENG SHUI Maximise positive energy in your home, your garden or your workplace words Emma Castle

F

eng shui is an ancient art used to orient buildings, decorate people’s homes and improve their lives by creating restful and energising spaces.

The concept originated in China around 4000 years ago and was practised by ancient masters and emperors. It is still used widely today by amateur homemakers, feng shui experts and design professionals, to create pleasing spaces for work, rest and play.

The basic objective is to create a harmonious environment that supports and generates both yin (female) and yang (male) energy.

She says the ancient Chinese masters discovered different types of energy that existed within our environment and found that various patterns of energy affected the human body and mind.

“Some influences were favourable, while others were negative and brought about disturbances and obstacles,” Jane says.

“It was discovered that when people were aligned with positive energy, they experienced periods of good fortune, whereas if they were aligned with stagnant or unfavourable energy, they would experience misfortune and obstacles.

Image iStockphoto

Jane Langof, a feng shui master from Feng Shui Concepts in Hunters Hill, Sydney, gained her

accreditation through the International Feng Shui Association, based in Singapore.

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BALANCE

HOW TO PRACTISE FENG SHUI AT HOME

Follow this checklist to ensure the energy flow in your home is the best it can be.

Front entrance

Place something attractive at your entrance that draws the eye into the home, such as a console table with flowers and artwork.

Avoid having mirrors directly opposite the front door as this reflects energy and opportunities out of the home.

Living spaces

Organise lounges into an L-shape as this is more harmonious than lounges facing each other (oppositional energy).

Kitchen

Radiant heat from gas or electric stovetops represents fire energy and is better than induction cooktops and microwaves. As a general tip, avoid the colour red, as it represents the element of fire, which is already in abundance in a kitchen.

Bedrooms

Place the bed along a solid wall that is diagonally opposite the door. Move televisions out

of bedrooms, and avoid having mirrors directly facing the bed as they symbolically reflect unresolved issues between couples. Make sure any phones or devices in the room are switched off during sleep time to minimise disruption.

Avoid clutter

Excessive clutter ties you down, creates obstacles and obstructs the flow of energy, which is detrimental to feng shui. Clearing away clutter, including broken and disused objects, is liberating and creates space for new opportunities to enter your life.

Colours

Generally speaking, neutral colours are the safest, with accents of colours that are in harmony with the energy of the home.

Peaceful, relaxing colours are advised for bedrooms. Red is a power colour that should be applied with caution as it exacerbates negative energy.

“From these observations came a defined set of guidelines, rules and mathematical systems that were tested and devised by the Chinese masters over thousands of years.

“True feng shui is not based on superstition or religion.”

Image iStockphoto

Brigitte Seum, a Melbourne-based feng shui consultant from Soulspace, says feng shui principles are readily understood.

“Good feng shui feels good – it’s comfortable – whereas bad feng shui is irritating or uncomfortable,” Brigitte says. “Be guided by your feelings, not your head.”

One of the big don’ts of feng shui practice is the creation of long, cutting lines within spaces. “It’s all about how people and energy flow through spaces.

Fresh air

Open windows and doors every day to allow fresh energy to circulate in your home.

Natural fragrances such as the perfume from fresh flowers or herbs are better than air fresheners, diffusers and scented candles.

Dust and grime represent stagnant energy, so spring-clean your home and office to bring about a sense of wellbeing and feeling of refreshment.

Energy boosters

Surround yourself with the things you love, so decorate using your favourite keepsakes, accessories and furnishings.

Place a pot plant in your living space to boost your health and energy levels. Plants such as the peace lily (Spathiphyllum) have broad leaves to produce oxygen and remove chemicals from your indoor air.

It was discovered that when people were aligned with positive energy, they experienced periods of good fortune.”

J A N E L A N G O F, F E N G S H U I CO N C E P TS, S YD N E Y

“Lots of homes and offices are cut in half by hallways or walls, which means the energy can shoot straight through or becomes blocked. You want energy to meander through spaces, like a river going down a hill,” Brigitte says. ^ W i n t e r 2 0 1 8 F LOU R I SH

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BALANCE

Yards of food It’s possible to grow your own vitamins no matter what size garden you tend words Jane Canaway

and looks lovely.

If you enjoy gardening, the chances are you are already growing something edible – look up “edible weeds” and “edible ornamentals” and you may surprise yourself.

If you’re just starting out, Craig Castree, author of Edible Gardens: A Practical Guide, says: “Stick to things that are in your fridge or pantry, and use cutand-come-again types such as non-hearting lettuce.”

Most people can find space for at least a pot of herbs or a patch of salad greens, adding nutrients, flavour and interest to meals – and saving money.

Even if you only have a sunny kitchen bench and a jar, you can grow seed sprouts or slightly larger microgreens.

If space is limited, website GrowVeg recommends focusing on high-value crops: silverbeet for

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year-round cutting; radishes for a fast harvest; and runner beans and zucchini because they are so plentiful. Other ideas include peas, which can produce a daily portion in season; herbs for convenience and to reduce waste; and cherry tomatoes because they are prolific and can be expensive to buy.

The permaculture design principles followed by Melbourne-based Very Edible Gardens seek multiple benefits from each plant or feature: a grapevinecovered pergola or fruit tree can shade a hot wall, provide a harvest and look charming.

Plants can also be chosen to fi ll specific garden roles. Thyme can edge a garden path, rosemary can become a hedge, a passionfruit vine can hide a fence, curly kale provides texture, architectural artichokes add interest, strawberries cover a rocky slope and fruit trees can be trained to grow flat against a wall.

Many vegetables need at least six hours of sunlight while others, such as zucchini and leafy greens, prefer afternoon shade. Just keep an eye out for other shade-lovers – snails and slugs – while the plants are young.

Images Alamy; iGetty Images; Stockphoto

A

n edible garden doesn’t mean boring rows of cabbages. In fact, the traditional cottage garden, or potager, offers kitchen essentials

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BALANCE (Clockwise from left) Most edible plants need more attention than perennials or shrubs; if you’re short on space, look to an unused, sunny spot where a pot of herbs might fit; radishes make for a quick harvest; empty jars are perfect for microgreens.

PERFECT SMALL-SPACE FILLERS SILVERBEET Soil: Rich soil is best but will grow in most places.

Position: Sun or partial shade.

PEAS Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil.

Think what spaces need fi lling, and then what edible plants might grow there. Then consider “hidden” spaces, such as up walls, posts or fences, or places for a pot. Try experimenting with smart combinations – a tripod supporting peas or beans partly shading a rocket crop or an arch for passionfruit or cucumbers.

Be careful you don’t confuse edibles with non-edibles – such as onions with daffodil bulbs, which are poisonous.

Most vegetables need more fertiliser and water than hardy perennials or shrubs, so don’t plant them alongside Australian native plants or others that prefer poor soils. However, you can localise your soil improvement by digging compost or manure into the hole before planting and by using drip irrigation lines that can be moved as needed.

And don’t worry if you miss the harvest or your crop goes to seed in the heat. Many vegetables bear beautiful flowers, especially carrots, leeks, artichokes and Florence fennel. The bees will thank you too.

With so much to gain and little to lose (Jerusalem artichokes can outstay their welcome – but do make wonderful cut flowers), now is the perfect time to introduce some edible delights to your garden. ^

Position: Full sun.

CHERRY TOMATOES Soil: Rich soil with plenty of added compost.

Position: Sun.

RADISHES Soil: Almost any soil with good drainage.

Position: Sunny for spring and autumn sowings, light shade for summer sowings.

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FEAT URED RETIREMENT COMMUNIT Y PUZZLES

*Artist’s impression

*Artist’s impression

48

The Grace Albert Park Lake is designed with community front of mind.

*Artist’s impression

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thegracealbertparklake.com.au

City change

Retirement in a safe and secure community in one of Melbourne’s most desirable neighbourhoods is no longer wishful thinking.

A

lbert Park, best known for its urban golfing and green spaces, is set to welcome Australian Unity’s newest premium apartment retirement community,The Grace Albert Park Lake.

Pride of place The Grace Albert Park Lake is positioned between Albert Park and South Melbourne, and nearby the Melbourne CBD and South Yarra.

With the city just a short tram ride, walk or taxi away, residents can keep up to date with new restaurant and café openings in the city’s most famous spots, while the nearby Southbank Arts Precinct is home to iconic theatres, galleries, museums and music venues.

And of course, Albert Park is on the doorstep. Golf enthusiasts can join their neighbours on the picturesque Albert Park golf course, and enjoy views across the city during tee off.

Palm tree-lined Beaconsfield Parade is also within easy reach – and strolls from Albert Park Lake can lead all the way to the beachfront.

A sense of community Retirement is a great time to connect with new friends over shared interests and hobbies, and The Grace Albert Park Lake is designed with community front of mind.

Shared spaces will include a rooftop terrace equipped with BBQ facilities, the perfect spot to get chatting with new neighbours over drinks and nibbles. Enjoying views over the city and Albert Park Lake or relaxing with a book in hand will be leisurely ways to while away an afternoon – residents can just pop down to the building’s well-stocked library to select a book.

The many communal spaces and facilities will make it easy to maintain sporting and cultural passions.

Dedicated morning lap-swimmers or those who simply like an occasional dip will be able to take advantage of the indoor pool. Plus, an in-house health centre for fitness and wellbeing.* The creatively minded can enjoy the piano lounge, theatrette and artists’ studio, which will offer everything from painting to sewing and crafts, suitable for everyone from beginners to experts.

And if you require more care down the track, there’s no need to say goodbye to this lifestyle and community. The adjacent aged care facility, as well as a concierge and retirement living services, will create a safe environment for years to come.**

Home sweet home The Grace Albert Park Lake will have one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, as well as a three-bedroom penthouse with study. The building

design, by award-winning architects Fender Katsalidis, focuses on creating a community environment, as well as bringing the outdoors in. Floor-to-ceiling windows will deliver views over Port Phillip Bay or Albert Park. Keen gardeners can mingle with fellow green thumbs in the onsite edible and succulent gardens.

The airy apartments, with interiors

by Mim Design, combine luxury and functionality, with “home” the central theme. “We designed the interior spaces to engage with residents and create a sense of pride, nostalgia and calm,” says Miriam Fanning, Founding Director of Mim Design.

Kitchen spaces are generous in size, with top-of-the-range Miele appliances and the option of inclusions such as a butler’s pantry and integrated wine-fridge.

Each light-filled home will be spacious, designed with practicality in mind – meaning plenty of room for entertaining friends and family.

For this development, Australian Unity has partnered with Marshall White Living, a name synonymous with prestigious off the plan apartment living.

The display suite will be open from midJune 2018; construction of The Grace Albert Park Lake is scheduled for completion in March 2019.

For more information, go to thegracealbertparklake.com.au *in-house health centre fees may apply. **Subject to Australian Unity assessment and availability.

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BALANCE

Tip Wash the leaves well before using as dirt can be caught in the many folds of each leaf.

TRY THIS

Spinach and silverbeet can be used in many different ways. Chop and stir through soups, casseroles and stir-fries. Shred, blanch and add to mashed potato and bolognese. Use in stuffings for pork, chicken and turkey.

50

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BALANCE

Best ever SPINACH and RICOTTA PIE A hearty recipe for the cooler months, this pie is perfect for serving up to friends and family, packing for an outdoor lunch affair or simply enjoying on your own and popping in the fridge for later.

Spinach and ricotta pie Serves 8

Ingredients

Method

2 tbsp olive oil

Heat the oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat. Cook the onion for 5 minutes until golden and very soft. Add the silverbeet and cook, stirring for 5 minutes, until soft. Season well, remove from the heat and stir through the spinach and ruby chard leaves. Set aside to cool.

2 onions, finely chopped 1 small bunch silverbeet, trimmed, washed and shredded salt and pepper to taste 1 bunch spinach, trimmed, washed and shredded 100g ruby chard leaves (or silverbeet leaves) 200g feta, crumbled 125g ricotta 2 eggs, lightly beaten 7 sheets fi lo pastry

Preheat the oven to 200˚C or 180˚C for a fan-forced oven. Lightly grease a 20 cm spring form tin. Add the feta, ricotta and eggs to the spinach mixture and mix to combine.

Spray 3 sheets of fi lo pastry with oil. Fold each sheet in half and lay over the base and up the side of the prepared tin. Spread half of the spinach mixture over the pastry. Spray 2 sheets of fi lo pastry and fold into quarters. Place over the spinach mixture. Spread the remaining spinach mixture over the pastry. Spray the remaining 2 sheets of fi lo pastry with oil and fold in half. Place over the spinach and fold in the edges to enclose the fi lling. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until crisp and golden.

Serve with salad and lemon wedges.

This is an edited extract from Grow Harvest Cook by Meredith Kirton & Mandy Sinclair, published by Hardie Grant Books. It is available in bookshops nationally and online, RRP $29.99.

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PUZZLES

Aussie crossword

1

Difficulty:

ACROSS

1. Volunteer first-aid association

whose members are a welcome sight at many sporting and public events (2,4,9)

7. Australia’s Next Top Model judge,

2

3

7

4

8

6

9

10

12

5

11

13

14

15

... Gale (5)

9. Life-saving snake and spider venom is harvested at the renowned Australian ... Park (7)

17

16

18

19

10. James Reyne’s pop-rock band and another name for freestyle swimming (10,5)

20

21

12. The legendary south Bondi winter swimming club (8)

15. Surname of Melbourne’s founder

22

16. Queensland’s state colour (6) 17. Perhaps the beach is shaped like

25

23

24

(6)

the moon in its first quarter at this popular NSW north-coast surfing and holiday destination, ... Head (8)

20. In the Australian Parliament the Speaker presides over the House of ... (15)

26 © Lovatts Puzzles

3. Australian television journalist and news presenter, ... Sanders (3)

4. WWII prisoners of war were forced

17. You can handfeed wild

Australian humpback dolphins in Queensland’s Tin ... Bay (3)

22. Glamour horse-racing event first

to work on the railway being built from Thailand to this Asian nation (5)

18. Type of bowerbird with a

24. Sport Australia Hall of Fame

5. In 1911 Douglas Mawson organised

19. In 1998, after it had been

run in 1957, the Golden ... (7)

inductee and Hockeyroos gold medallist who shares her name with a river south of Cooktown, Alyson ... (5)

25. Banjo Paterson’s Mulga Bill “turned

away the good old horse that served him many days” to buy one of these (7)

26. The number of players in a rugby union team (7)

DOWN 1. 1960s Federal Opposition leader Arthur Calwell was known for his support of this left-wing political theory (9)

2. Media heir rated as the ninth richest Australian in 2017 by Forbes Asia magazine, ... Packer (5)

52

and led the first Australian expedition to this chilly part of the world (9)

6. Darwin was devastated when this part of Cyclone Tracy passed over the city in 1974 (3)

8. Northern Territory tourist attraction, Katherine ... (5) 11. A regular on Bandstand in its early

days, when she was known as Patsy Ann, this actress more recently played Padmé Amidala’s mother in Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge Of The Sith, Trisha ... (5)

13. The story of someone’s life, such as Doris Pilkington Garimara’s Follow The Rabbit-Proof Fence (9)

14. Tenants’ fees that are among the

world’s most expensive in Sydney (5)

remarkable talent for mimicry (5)

adopted with an overwhelming majority by the UN, Australia ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear ... Treaty (4,3)

21. Aussie actor often seen on TV screens and also in movies such as Lantana and The Great Gatsby, ... Colosimo (5) 22. Sandwich made on a long roll (3)

23. Victoria’s Yarra Valley Caviar

farm milk their fish annually for these egg masses (3)

24. Home and Away’s grumbling but soft-at-heart Summer Bay businessman, owner of the Bait Shop (3)

F LOU R I SH W i n t e r 2 0 1 8

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PUZZLES

Binary puzzle Difficulty: Each square in the puzzle may contain either 0 or 1, and: • No more than two adjacent squares may contain the same digit: you cannot have three adjacent squares, in a row or column, of the same digit.

• Each row and each column must contain the same number of 0s and 1s: for a 10 x 10 grid, each row and column will contain five 0s and five 1s.

• No row may be the same as another row and no column may be the same as another column.

However, a row may be the same as a column.

2

Sudoku puzzle

1 9

6

3

3

8

8 9

7 5

• Each of the nine horizontal rows.

2 3

9 4

2

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1-9 must appear in: • Each of the nine vertical columns.

9

6

Difficulty:

1

7

3

1

• Each of the nine 3x3 boxes.

Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

4

7

1

4 © Lovatts Puzzles

Answers

Crossword:

© Lovatts Puzzles

Sudoku solution: © Lovatts Puzzles

3

2

9

5

1

7

6

4

9

4

2

9

6

7

5

2

1

8

3

7

4

3

6

5

1

9

8

8

8 4 5 6 3

7

1

2

5

4

1

7

9

8

3

6

7

2

9

8

3

6 2 1

3

7

1

5

8

2

4

1

6

9

7

5

2

1

5

8

9

2

6

4

6 3

4 7

3 4 9 8 5

Binary solution:

S T J O H O A C M E G O I E A U S T R G L I C E B E S I M A R O O G R E P R E A S L I P P U H B I C Y C

E R O L E R G S E C N T A S E N A L I N A M N A N

B U L U R E P M A N C O B A L R E S A T A T I A N N L F I F

A N C E N Y T I L E A R A W L C T M A N I C E N T E I V E S I T A N B C A T E E N

© Lovatts Puzzles W i n t e r 2 0 1 8 F LOU R I SH

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PUZZLES

L

U

A C U

T E R D

A

Y S

A R E W O L S

S H O R

F

O O L

A P R

I

L

T

I

H C S

L

L

F

I

L

S D

A

E R

V

A E

L Y

V P

A W O L

L

E M L

L

I

B N L

I

A

A P

T

A R G T

G R

S

S P

Z

M N O A

A

S S

A E E N

S

Y S F

E U

I

T N

D R L

U

A

T

R G R N C D M N R O

I

B

S

A G T

L

E

A N C A

I I

C C F

G M S

R U O A N

H U E D N R

L

Y E R

Q D P

P

I

S R

I

P

S E H

X O S C © Lovatts Puzzles

© Lovatts Puzzles

Word search

Do your block

Difficulty:

Difficulty:

Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally.

The leftover letters will reveal the mystery answer.

Place all the words listed into the grid.

Each word can be used only once.

Theme: Autumn down under. Cross off these words about the season of crisp mornings and cooler evenings to reveal an autumnal event that is fast and loud!

ANZAC DAY APPLES APRIL FOOLS DAY BR OCCOLI C AUL IFLOWER C H E STNUTS C H ILL

FALL FESTI VAL FRU I TS GOLD MAR CH MAY MELLOW OR ANGES

Answer

54

P E ARS P E RS IM M ON S P RUN IN G QUIN C E S RE D S E AS ON S HOR T E R DAYS V E G E TA B LE S

3 letters

5 letters

6 letters

Aye Coy Ego G as

Abu ts Arena Ar ias B eret C ho s e Eer ie E r u pt G rape Har s h M erg e M eted Or bit Pair s R ains R ais e S epia S heer S pire Steel Tepee

Ar t i s t Ave r s e B e t ray Ce a s e d Champs D e s i re Ec h o e s Em b a l m Fo r m at Impair Lisped Po s e r s Resets Settle St ate d Te n a nt Te s te r U n us e d Ve n e e r Zo m b i e

F LOU R I SH W i n t e r 2 0 1 8

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067 – Anagram Square

Wheel Words

Create words of 4 letters or more using the given letters once only, but always including the middle letter. use proper names or plurals ending Rearrange the letters in each rowDotonot form a word.

S. See if you canfirst find the 9-letter word using Write your answers into thewith blank grid.

The up all letters.

PUZZLES

K K S I O letter from each word, reading down, will spell the Anagram square2 E A V H L 15 Good 20 Very Good 25+ Excellent mystery keyword.

Difficulty: 3 T A B E A I D ________________________________ Rearrange the letters in each row to form a word. Write your 4 A A O K L U ________________________________ T ________________________________ answers into the blank grid. The first letter from each word, ________________________________ reading down, will spell the5mystery keyword.

G C I N I ________________________________

A

L

E Q

I

Wheel words

1

________________________________ 1 ________________________________ ________________________________ 2 ________________________________ ________________________________

© Lovatts Puzzles

3

Difficulty:

4

Create words of 4 letters

5

© Lovatts Puzzles or more using the given Wheel Words 0555

K E T A G

K A A A C

S V B O I

I H E K N

O L A L I

1 2 3 4 5 © Lovatts Puzzles

letters once only, but always 1 Solution: including the middle letter.

Adit, Aide, Dale, Date, Deal, Dial, Dual, Idea, Lade, Laid, Late, Laud, Lead, Quad, Tail, Do not useAdult, proper Tale, Teal, Adieu, Ailed, names Audit, Dealt, Delta, Equal, Quail,its Tidal, head Detail, Lost 2 Ideal, LOST ITS HEAD Dilate, Tailed, Liquate, Quailed, Tequila, or plurals ending with S. Liquated.

Difficulty: Each of the words reading down has lost its head. Fill in the correct Seeword: if you can find the 9-letter 3 9-letter LIQUIDATE. first letters to spell a nine-letter word reading across, starting with the word using up all letters. given letter. the mystery keyword.down has lost its head. Fill in the Each ofThis theis words reading 4 correct first letters to spell a nine-letter word reading across, 15 = Good 20 = Very Good starting with the given letter. This is the mystery keyword.

25+ = Excellent 5

1 A U R A

2 3

4

5

6

© Lovatts Puzzles

7 8 9

O O X D A M O E S C A G N I U A H K M Y Y T N K

Solution: Kiosk, Halve, Abate, Koala, Icing.

Mystery keyword: KHAKI

9-letter word answer:

© Lovatts Puzzles

.

A B U T S

E R U P T

I M P A I R

R A I N S

S H E E R S T A T E D

Q D P

P

I

L

H U E D N R C A

I

S R

I

P

X O S C

Y E R

R U O A N

R G R N C D M N R O A N

I

C C F

S E H

A G T

G M S

L

I U

I

M N O A A E E N

Y S F

G R

Z

B N L

S S P I

A W O L L

I

L

I

A P R

T

S S

A A P L

A

E M L

H C S

D R

L B A

E S T

T N E U

L

T

L

A R G T I

E R

A E

V

S

V P

L

F

O O L

S D

A

Y

Mystery keyword: AGREEMENT

R E S E T S

D E S I R E

1. Aura, 2. Gosh, 3. Rock, 4. Exam, 5. Edgy, 6. Many, 7. Emit, 8. Noun, 9. Teak.

V E N E E R

© Lovatts Puzzles

© Lovatts Puzzles

O R B I T

LOST ITS HEAD 051 © Lovatts Puzzles

S E P A T F O R S E E D E T E N R A L E G A S C O Y C E E C H H A A Y S Z O M S P E D D T E S

S S H O R

T E R D

A R E W O L

F

I

L

A Y S

U

L

A C U

Answer: AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX

Lost Its Head: 1. Aura, 2. Gosh, 3. Rock, 4.

Exam, 5. Edgy, 6. Many, 7. Emit, 8. Noun, 9. Teak. Mystery keyword: AGREEMENT Mystery keyword: KHAKI

G R A P E

Solution: Kiosk, Halve, Abate, Koala, Icing.

A R T I S T

Do Your Block solution: E E R I E

Word Search solution:

E M B A L M

Answers:

© Lovatts Puzzles To purchase more puzzles, visit our website lovattspuzzles.com

Mystery keyword: KHAKI

Kiosk, Halve, Abate, Koala, Icing.

Anagram Square solution:

9-letter word: LIQUIDATE

Wheel Words solution: Adit, Aide, Dale, Date, Deal, Dial, Dual, Idea, Lade, Laid, Late, Laud, Lead, Quad, Tail, Tale, Teal, Adieu, Adult, Ailed, Audit, Dealt, Delta, Equal, Ideal, Quail, Tidal, Detail, Dilate, Tailed, Liquate, Quailed, Tequila, Liquated.

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BALANCE

AUTUMN GOLD Pumpkins are versatile, filled with goodness and very delicious words Ja n e C anaway

P

umpkins have been grown in Central and North America for millennia, but the word pumpkin stems from Greek and was introduced by early colonials, who also brought the legend of the Jack-o-Lantern.

Pumpkins store well, providing food through winter, and contain potassium and vitamin A. The seeds are also edible.

They can be baked whole, cooked in risotto, used to flavour scones and sweet dishes, as well as made into soups, curries or roasted as a side dish.

Roast pumpkin salad 1 pumpkin Olive oil Honey Balsamic vinegar Feta cheese Chilli flakes Salt and pepper Peel your pumpkin and chop into bite-sized pieces, then toss in olive oil and bake at 200ËšC for about 30 minutes, basting once or twice. For extra flavour, remove after 20 minutes, toss with sesame seeds and return to oven for 10 minutes.

When nicely browned, remove and drizzle with honey, a little balsamic vinegar, then sprinkle with feta cheese, chilli flakes, salt and pepper to taste.

Can be enjoyed hot or cold.

DID YOU KNOW? Native Americans flattened strips of pumpkin, dried them and used them to make mats.

56

cooking tip Try a little ginger in your next pumpkin dish; the flavours blend beautifully.

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BALANCE

Thai pumpkin soup 1 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, chopped 2 tsp ginger, grated 1 tbsp Thai red curry paste

1 medium butternut or Jap pumpkin 2 tbsp olive oil 2 eggs 1 cup light brown sugar 1 tbsp plain flour 1/2 tsp salt 1 tsp ground nutmeg

1kg pumpkin, peeled and diced

1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

2 cups vegetable stock

375ml tin evaporated milk

400ml tin light coconut milk

short crust pastry pie shell (23cm)

Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat.

Illustrations by Clementine (Illustrationroom.com)

Spiced pumpkin pie

Add onion and stir for one minute. Add ginger and paste and stir for one minute.

Cut pumpkin in half, remove seeds and toss in olive oil.

Place cut-side down on a baking tray lined with foil. Roast at 160˚C for 30 to 40 minutes until tender. Cool slightly.

Scrape pumpkin flesh from peel. Mash or puree in a blender.

Increase oven temperature to 230˚C. In a large bowl, lightly beat eggs.

Add brown sugar, flour, salt, 2 cups of the pumpkin puree, nutmeg, cinnamon and evaporated milk. Stir well after each addition.

Add pumpkin and stock, bring to boil, then simmer over low heat for 15 minutes until pumpkin is cooked.

Pour mixture into the unbaked pastry shell. Bake for 10 minutes then reduce the oven temperature to 180˚C.

Cool slightly, then blend until smooth. Return to the pan, add the coconut milk and warm through.

HINT A strip of foil around the edge of the crust prevents over browning.

Remove foil about 20 minutes before the pie is done.

For best flavour, cool pie and refrigerate overnight.

Bake for an additional 40 to 50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted near the centre comes out clean.

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We’d like your feedback Special off ers on Australian Unity’s We want to talk about Flourish magazine. Share with us what you like Flourishgeneral magazine and where you think we could improve. great about value insurance Protect your valuables with our Prestige contents insurance Your home contents are protected even when they are not at home

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Terms & conditions: Game of skill. Not available to Australian Unity employees. Further terms and conditions apply.

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