Seniors

NORTH COAST

SENIORS REVOLUT!ON

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n July 2017

Inside:

Your community Finance Health Arts & Culture Travel

Features:

If I were a carpenter • Ian Gaillard

Men’s health • We take a look below the belt and much more

St Carthage’s Italian Senior Day Club celebrates 30 years • Older Italians enjoying life

Clarence Village Limited Where we make people the focus of everything we do ACCOMMODATION, LIFESTYLE AND CARE OPTIONS FOR SENIORS H=NAJ?A 3EHH=CA )P@ EO = †† JKP BKN LNKłP†† ?KIIQJEPU based organisation with over 40 years experience in the self-care retirement village sector and over 25 years in PDA /AOE@AJPE=H CA@ =NA OA?PKN ,QN OPNKJC łJ=J?E=H LKOEPEKJ LNKRE@AO NAOE@AJPO SEPD PDA ?KJł@AJ?A PK EJRAOP in our organisation and reassurance that their refundable deposits are secure.

As part of our community conscience we provide accommodation for a large number of people who are concessional, in that their sole income is the aged pension.

Our aim is to provide good quality affordable residential facilities for all seniors in the community. Our facilities work together and provide a range of services and accommodation types to suit most seniors’ needs.

CLARENCE VILLAGE SELF CARE RETIREMENT VILLAGE provides 73 individual one and two bedroom units to accommodate people who wish to live independently yet within close proximity to other residents for security and community activities.

Some of our residents have been with us for over 20 years and love the community environment which provides them with friendship, security and independence.

CLARENCE VILLAGE RICHARDS CLOSE STAGE 3 - A unique opportunity has presented itself with a couple of one bedroom units becoming available.

These units have been upgraded and have solar power installed. They are close to Grafton Base hospital and on a major bus route.

To enter these units you will be required to pay an entry contribution which is made up of two parts: • Donation drawn down over 5 years • Interest free loan to the company – this amount is fully refundable within 6 months of you vacating Š ?PQ=H łCQNAO =NA >=OA@ KJ EJ@ERE@Q=H ?EN?QIOP=J?AO and can be provided at the inspection.

Our very affordable rental fees are based on the highest single aged pension currently $186.00 per fortnight.

Don’t miss out come in and talk to Vicki who can consider your options and arrange a personal inspection of the vacant units.

RICHARDS CLOSE

CLARENCE VILLAGE ON QUEEN 166 Queen Street; provides one and two bedroom rental units for independent seniors.

Each unit comprises a lounge, bedroom with ensuite, kitchenette, fridge and microwave, and a private courtyard. Included are breakfast provisions and freshly prepared lunch and Tea, fresh bed linen and towels weekly and free use of laundry facilities. Small pets are also welcome, subject to managers approval . Within the

grounds are a communal Vegetable garden, chickens and other amenities. The fresh vegetables and herbs are used in the kitchen and the fresh eggs shared by the residents.

Our long term residents have seen considerable improvements in our level of service, this combined with an active social calendar which includes bus trips, activities and a social club which draws a number of residents who enjoy sharing a drink with friends.

DOUGHERTY VILLA, RESIDENTIAL AGED CARE FACILITY

- 54 single rooms with ensuites, including 2 respite rooms, 24 hour care, a wide range of activities and all meals prepared and freshly cooked on site. Our holistic approach to overall wellbeing includes therapies such as foot therapy, massage, aroma therapy, physio and exercise programs.

We have 4 sets of inter -connecting rooms for L=NPJANO =J@ = >A@ OA?QNA SEJC BKN OLA?EĹ‚? ?=NA (dementia) needs.

Clarence Village Limited is embarking on another new project which will go a long way to relieving the pressure on waiting lists for residential aged care beds in Grafton. The proposal will include an additional 20 high care beds with private ensuites and a particular emphasis on dementia; taking the total capacity of Dougherty Villa to 74 beds. The boutique nature of our facility will not change, but the addition will provide state of the art facilities for high care, more care staff and other resources to service all the residents.

It should be noted that the construction will be funded from our own capital. We estimate that the construction costs will be approximately $6.2 million including @AOECJ BAAO Ĺ‚P KQP and landscaping. As with our recently

completed CV Gardens Retirement Village facility where possible we propose to use local contractors BKN ?KJOPNQ?PEKJ 1DA ĹƒKS KJ >AJAĹ‚PO PK PDA HK?=H community range from local construction jobs, additional staff positions and the ongoing purchase of local supplies and services for the long term.

Our specialist Aged Care Architects Thomson Adsett, lodged a Development Application (DA) with the Clarence Valley Council on 15 May 2017. They are awaiting DA approval which is expected early July 2017 and are now working on the detailed design and documentation in readiness for letting a contract late 2017. Construction is expected to commence early November 2017 and is proposed to be completed in November 2018 and be open for new residents before the 2019 New Year. As we venture down this path we will keep the community informed of progress.

Contact Linda at Dougherty Villa on 02 6643 2377 for information.

CLARENCE VILLAGE GARDENS - 299 Queen Street - New Development: 21 Two Bedroom Duplex units, including 5 units which have two bedrooms plus a study. Stage 1 of our new Retirement Village - Clarence Village Gardens was completed on the 9th September 2016 and Stage 2 was completed on 31st March 2017. All Stage 1 & 2 residents are happily living in their new units and the general consensus is that they should have done this a long time ago.

GET IN EARLY AND PUT YOUR NAME ON A, NO OBLIGATIONS, WAITING LIST OR JUST ARRANGE A TIME TO VIEW ANY OF OUR FACILITIES. ,JA KB PDA IKOP OECJEĹ‚?=JP @A?EOEKJO UKQ SEHH I=GA EO when to downsize and move into homes that are affordable, age appropriate and still have all the trappings of a quality unit. The opportunity exists to do this locally and we encourage everyone to check out their options early, rather than at the last minute which can be quite stressful.

RICHARDS CLOSE

The lifestyle and care choices we offer at all our facilities shouldn’t be left until the last minute. Our residents have found that the social atmosphere, security, quality facilities

with the daily maintenance and upkeep done for you, leaves you time to enjoy life. Check our website www.clarencevillage.com.au for more information on all the facilities.

Come and talk with the CEO Phil Belletty or our Village Manager Vicki Valja on 02 66425991 at the Joan Muir Community Centre 194 Turf Street Grafton, weekdays between 8:00 am and 2:00 pm to look at the options that are available.

NO COMPLICATED CONTRACTS! NO EXIT FEES! NO HIDDEN COSTS! We can be contacted by email on: clarencevillage@bigpond.com if you require more details on our facilities and rates.

THAT’S LIFE

Hello!

What a wonderful front page photo we have for this edition.

The ladies are part of the St Carthage’s Italian Senior Day Club who are celebrating 30 years this year. Pictured are: (l-r) Silvina Bravin, Ellie Gava and Stella Furlan and they look as if they are having so much fun.

Speaking of fun, you definitely have to take a peek at the stunning bikini clad volunteers of the Ballina Lighthouse RSL Day Club on page 6. They are a knockout.

Do you have enough ‘Ubuntu’?

‘Wikipedia says that Ubuntu is a Nguni Bantu term meaning “humanity”. It is often also translated as “humanity towards others”, but is often used in a more philosophical sense to mean “the belief in a universal bond of sharing that connects all humanity”.

Is this something that we are losing in our society today? Modern technology is great, but not if it means we never have to leave our homes or speak to people in person in order to survive.

Being part of a community is what keeps us sane, and interested in living our lives to the fullest.

If you think your Ubuntu is a little lacking, find a community group to get involved in - you never know what will happen - you may have to wear a bikini.

Until next time.

Lynda

Congratulations Congratulations to our winners of our book competition. They were: Ellen Thacker from Chilcotts Grass and Brian Waugh from Arcadia Vale.

Thank you to all our readers who entered the pp is greatly appreciated. competition,, yyour support

Attention: Publicity Officers A huge thank-you to all those who contribute their news to Revolution. We welcome your community group’s news and photos. To submit an article please email the article and photos to::

contributions@cvreview.com.au Articles are to be no longer than 250 words and pics must be at least 400kb in size. If you do not wish to have contact details included with your news, please let us know. If you require a reminder, please send an email to the address above requesting an email.

If you have any queries, please contact Lynda Davidson on 6646 9466.

What were they thinking?

Business Profile Coffs Harbour Fishermen’s Cooperative

Did you know that 786 participants broke the record for the world's largest skinny dip? On March 8, 2016 The Fig Group Australia secured this record in Perth. Butt wait there’s more...

Some people have too much time on their hands or heads. Kevin Shelley broke 46 toilet seats over his head in one minute in Cologne, Germany. I hope they were clean.

And just because he could, Gary Bashaw, Jr., blew 53.82 mls of milk and chocolate powder out of his nose. It was on the set of a Guinness World Records TV program in Los Angeles, California. I hope he had a clean hanky.

And the longest finger nails on the hand of a male measured 32ft, 3.8in. Melvin Boothe was the proud owner and yes I can guess what you are all thinking. How did he ...?

Blue Steel Week

in support of prostate cancer Lions Clubs have been supporting prostate cancer awareness since the year 2000, and have since added research and treatment to this project, following talks with the Mater Foundation, a world class cancer research institute in Brisbane.

Funds raised for cancer research and treatment are held by the Lions Clubs, who provide necessary funds for the Mater as equipment for prostate cancer research is required.

Lion John Grimstone, the project chairman says “the purpose of the project is to find a cure for prostate cancer, then eventually find the cause, and how to prevent men getting this dreaded disease. Once this is achieved, Lions will have something else to be proud of.”

Blue Steel Week, which commences on Father’s Day each year, is an initiative of Lions District Governor, Queenslander Merv Ferguson OAM, and focuses on awareness and fundraising for prostate cancer research.

A newly designed commemorative badge will be on sale for Blue Steel Week in the form of a broken sword. The sword is a fighting instrument, the steel represents strength and the notches signify those who have beaten the disease.

Lions Clubs around Australia will be selling these badges at various locations during Blue Steel Week.

Please support your local Lions Club and buy a badge during Blue Steel Week. All funds raised from sales of the badge will go to the Lions Prostate Cancer Research Program.

Together we can help beat this insidious disease.

Do you have fond memories of fish and chips by the sea? Want a delicious inexpensive meal right on the harbour?

The Coffs Harbour Fishermen’s Cooperative offers the best fish and chips in Coffs Harbour using a variety of freshly caught local species, in addition to the traditional standards. Check out their specials such as Mahi Mahi and chips or Swordfish and chips. The menu retains a traditional fish and chips base, but also offers healthy options for those who want to avoid chips.

Everyone will find something they like. And what’s more, they also do home deliveries. All you need to do is go to their website to order.

The Coffs Harbour Fishermen’s Cooperative, is located at the very heart of the Coffs harbour at the end of the jetty and is the perfect meeting place between local fishermen and fresh seafood lovers.

Operating on the foreshores of Coffs Harbour since the early 1950s it is owned by about 50 local fishermen. Fresh seafood is supplied almost every day, which can be bought straight off their boats through the retail store and takeaway. The fresh seafood is amongst some of the best wild caught seafood in Australia, if not the world.

The retail store sells locally caught fish, including the famous and award winning snapper, whiting, flathead, Pearl Perch, Kingfish, tuna (perfect for sashimi), mackerel, swordfish, Mahi Mahi, marlin, and other local species.

They also have delicious prawns, lobsters, Balmain Bugs and crabs. In addition to locally caught produce, the Fishermen’s Co-op also stock a selection of standard staples such as salmon, oysters and much more.

We could all use a bit more Omega 3, which has extensive health benefits, and what better way to increase your intake than with a feed of beautiful wild caught fish. Call into the Coffs Harbour Fishermen’s Cooperative and take a look at what they have to offer – you’re never too old to eat fish and chips by the ocean. Call them on 6652 2811 or visit www.coffsfishcoop.com.au

Laughter is the best medicine Buying the right computer and getting it to work properly is no more complicated than building a nuclear reactor from wristwatch parts in a darkened room, using only your teeth. - Dave Barry

Contact Details: Address: Unit 4/1 Fairtrader Drive, Yamba Business Park Phone: 02 6646 9466 Fax: 02 6646 9490 Web: www.cvindependent.com.au Email: sales@cvreview.com.au INDEPENDENT PUBLISHERS

Published by Auzmags Pty Ltd

Disclaimer: The information contained in this publication is given in good faith. This publication should not be used or relied on as a substitute for detailed professional advice or used as a basis for formulating important lifestyle

North Coast Seniors

General Manager Ann Mazzitelli Editor Lynda Davidson

Graphic Designers Rebecca Smith Chloe Billington Lynda Davidson

Sales Consultants Fran Dowsett Chloe Dowsett Jude Myers Marta Fergusson

Printed by Fairfax Media

decisions.

To the maximum extent permitted by law, Auzmags Pty Ltd accepts no liability for loss or damage arising as a result of any person acting in reliance on information contained in this publication.

Auzmags Pty Ltd is not responsible for views or comments contained in advertisements. Therefore, it is the advertisers or their agency’s responsibility to ensure the content and claims in their advertisements are not in breach of the Trade Practices Act.

Copyright. All material including graphic design, editorial content, photography and advertising appearing in this magazine is copyright restricted and may not be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher or from persons holding copyright for specific feature articles.

Revolution - July 2017

3

OUR COMMUNITY

Yamba Yabbies Toastmasters Club

CWA Iluka

We hope you have plenty of ‘winter woollies’ to keep you warm.

Our ladies have had a busy couple of days here at our hall. We hosted a morning tea for the History Group visitors. MP Kevin Hogan, Councillor Greg Clancy with his wife all enjoyed our favourite scones with fresh jam and cream after attending the unveiling of the plaque for the wreck of the ‘Waree’ which sailed from Thursday Island on October 17, 1946. Parts of it are still visible where it came to ground, adjacent to the northern breakwater, eventually landing on Iluka Beach. More information about the ‘Waree’ can be seen at the Iluka Museum.

Once again our walls are full of the colourful posters of Iluka State Public School children, for the annual poster presentation.

Our country of study this year being Nepal. As always, students have produced some interesting work. They never cease to amaze us with all the hard work they put into their country of study every year, with lots of interesting information on the lifestyle, drawings of people, animals, their way of life, the food they eat and grow etc.

What a great job they have done. One group of students did a dance for us all. Called The Happy Dance, it was very good with lots of happiness shown with the biggest smiles from the students while dancing.

Sue Fry gave a very interesting talk about Nepal as she had lived there for a while. She gave the students an insight into the diversity of the way they lived, which is so different to our way of life.

Thank you so much Sue, we all enjoyed the talk.

Thank you to our three judges, Jane Bronotte, Margo Grant and Sue Fry, what a task they had to pick out the winners in each class.

All the children did a wonderful job. Well done to everyone.

CWA Ladies meet every Friday morning at 9am. Anyone enjoying handicraft work is welcome or just come along for a tea, coffee or a knit and natter. Our CWA rooms are located in Charles Street, inside the History Museum.

Margaret Dorrell Publicity Officer

Brunswick Valley Meals on Wheels Service • N No o minimum mini min i imum imum o order rder rde d r • Food Food costs cost osts ts range range ffrom rang rom .80c 80c 0c to to $9.90.

• No delivery costs • Foods available • Free to come and go as you choose - Main meal - Mini main meal • Wide variety of menu choices - Sweet • Dietary needs & food Mor than jue - Soup preferences provided a mealst - Sandwich • Deliveries 3 times per week to cover 7 days - Fresh fruit - Fruit juice drink • Chilled and frozen meals - Breakfast pack • Shopping assistance - Snack pack • Other Food services program - Nuts – monthly bus/picnic/ - Gourmet meals shopping/beach walks.

Deliveries by caring volunteers from your local community

YOUR LOCAL MEALS ON WHEELS SERVICE IS FUNDED & SUPPORTED BY

CARE, RESPECT, INTEGRITY, COMPASSION AND TEAMWORK

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July 2017 - Revolution

Yamba Yabbies Toastmasters Club outgoing president Jan Coleman was presented with a plaque in Sydney recently which read “In Appreciation of Service Excellence as Oxley Division Director for 2016-17”.

Yamba Yabbies Toastmasters meets first and third Mondays at the Yamba Bowling Club commencing at 6.30pm sharp. Visitors are always welcome to come along and check out what Toastmasters is all about. For further information, phone Jan on 66451266 for check out our Facebook page. Image: Contributed

Electricity discounts for Clarence and Richmond Valley seniors

Thousands of Seniors Card holders in the Clarence and Richmond Valleys now have the option for cheaper power following a deal between the NSW Government and energy giant AGL, according to Clarence MP Chris Gulaptis.

From 1 July, AGL will offer Seniors Card members a 25 per cent guaranteed discount off electricity usage and 19 per cent guaranteed discount off gas usage charges on a two year energy plan.

“Given we are now well and truly into winter, the timing could not be better. We know every dollar counts for seniors,” Mr Gulaptis said.

More than 5,600 businesses now offer Seniors Card discounts, up from 1600 in January 2015. For more information on the Seniors Card, visit www.seniorscard. nsw.gov.au

Vision Australia volunteers: You make it possible!

Vision Australia celebrated National Volunteers Week with 32 events held nationally throughout the month of May. “National Volunteers Week is our opportunity to thank our dedicated volunteers who make so much possible for people who are blind or have low vision throughout Northern NSW,” Vision Australia Coordinator of Volunteers Leisa Hawkey said.

“Our volunteers support local community groups, visit clients, and assist in our local offices and they tell us they get so much out of volunteering.”

If you are interested in volunteering Vision Australia is currently looking for a vol-

unteer based in Lismore to assist with supporting local community groups as well as volunteers in Lismore and Coffs Harbour to assist with placing Collection Dogs in local businesses.

For more information you can contact the local Vision Australia office on 0266234806 or go to http://www.visionaustralia.org/ fundraising-and-volunteering/ volunteer

Grants for Clarence New technology for and Richmond Valley New Italy Museum choirs The New Italy Museum south of Woodburn Musically minded Clarence and Richmond Valley seniors should consider applying for a grant of up to $7000 to start a choir, while existing choirs could be eligible for a grant of up to $1000, according to Clarence MP Chris Gulaptis.

“Sing your Age is a $150,000 NSW Government initiative designed to encourage more local seniors to rediscover the joy of singing,” Mr Gulaptis said.

“Seniors, particularly

widows and widowers often struggle with social isolation and this is a great idea to include them with their peers.”

For more information about the Sing Your Age grants program or to apply for funding visit www.anca.org.au/facssing-your-age .

For assistance making an application contact the Australian National Choral Association on (03) 9254 1019, or email admin@anca.org.au .

Grant applications close on Friday 18 August 2017 at 5pm.

has won a $1700 grant to help realise its initiative “Bringing New Italy voices to life: an audio visual project”, Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis has announced.

“Volunteer museums deserve government support,” Mr Gulaptis said.

“Even though the amount is modest, it should be noted that the New Italy Museum was just one of 13 across the state to win a grant in this funding round and I congratulate all the locals involved.”

Laughter is the best medicine Sleeping is like being dead without the commitment. - Anon May my husband rest in peace until I get there. - Dame Edna Everage

North Coast Seniors

OUR COMMUNITY

Ballina CWA Each year, the Country Women’s Association branches are given a country of study. This year it is Nepal. This allows members to hear about subjects, such as history, geography, religion, role of women and children, flora and fauna etc. This is accumulated into an International Day in which other CWA members and the general public are invited.

This year 90 people came and listened to poems, readings, and different acts to see what makes Nepal. As Nepal has 500 species of butterflies, 120 butterflies adorned the walls and tables, as well as prayer flags from Nepal were hung around the room.

Our first guest speaker was Philip Taylor, from beyond Byron Bay, who presented a power point presentation talk on climbing Mt. Everest and tourism - so vital to Nepal’s economy.

Our next speakers were Shannon Russell, Annie Carn and her son Ben. They spoke about their journey to Nepal. Annie and

other helpers take a group of young people over to Nepal for a month, first as tourists - who have the opportunity to climb the Himalayas, and then, help out in a home for autistic children. From Australia, they take gifts of clothing and toys and the younger group play and teach the children there.

The first time Annie went to Nepal, she was appalled at the treatment of the children and vowed to help them. Since then, she has been able to have hot water supplied to the home every second day, and has arranged for doctors to check them over.

Annie also brought Buddhist bells and dorje musical instruments, once played the tinkling sound is very soothing. When the smaller brass bowl was gently rubbed around the brim, it became a “singing bowl”. The larger bowl was placed on Ben’s head, with a soft mallet lightly tapped, the bowl sent out vibrations to the brain stimulating

Record 53,872 scones

it. After this demonstration, she asked Ben to say the Nepalese words for hello, thank you and other words. Annie then filled the bowl with water, with the finger rubbing the rim--the water bubbled and sent a strong vibration that penetrated into the body.

The day ended with a Nepalese lunch being served. (above) l-r--Lyn Davidson (CWA Ballina branch, president), Kaye Kotz (CWA Kyogle branch,who is the Far North Coast Group president), Kaye Martin (CWA Lismore branch, -is the Far North Coast Group International Officer), and Vicki Turner (CWA Kingscliff branch, Secretary).

Image: Contributed

Casino VIEW Club Casino VIEW Club holds their monthly meetings on the second Thursday of each month at 11am at the Casino RSM Club.

Following a lovely lunch, we have a variety of guest speakers who cover many topics. VIEW stands for Voice Interest & Education of Women. New members and guests are always welcome to join in the fun and fellowship.

We are also holding our annual Soup, Sweets and Games Day on July 26, at the Casino RV Village BBQ Hut commencing with morning tea at 10.30am.

This day proves to be very popular and a lot of fun. Anyone wishing to come along is asked to contact Barbara on 6661 2530 as soon as possible for catering purposes.

We are also fortunate to be able to

have regular Bunnings Sausage Sizzles that although require some work, results in a lot of fun while raising funds.

Our main project is to raise funds to support The Smith Family Learning For Life Project. Our club supports the education of three disadvantaged Australian children through this scheme.

We have a wonderful group of ladies who donate items such as clothing, reading mats and toiletries that are directed to local foster care groups, making life a little more pleasant for the children at that difficult time in their lives. In the month of May in excess of $1,500 worth of goods were donated to this cause.

The elderly are not forgotten.

Numerous blankets and knee rugs are made annually for the local aged care

0HDOV RQ :KHHOV COOKED IN GRAFTON DAILY

• Sweets, Salads, Sandwiches • Hot / Chilled / Frozen available each day • Weekend Meals Delivered • Out of town catered (frozen packs) • Soup on menu for winter Mon-Fri 7am-1pm | Enquiries: 6642 3879 Email: mowgraf@westnet.com.au North Coast Seniors

Members of the North Coast Group of CWA of NSW attended the Annual State Conference at the Mingara Recreation Club in Tumbi Umbi in May. Once again we voted to raise funds and awareness of Lyme Disease. Janice Foster from the Lyme Disease Association of Australia was presented with a donation of $38,000. This money was raised by branches throughout NSW. Janice told us the North Coast and Central Coast of NSW were “hot spots” for Lyme Disease.

The Show Catering Committee have a CWA Tea Rooms at the Sydney Royal Easter Show each year. 435 volunteers worked tirelessly for the length of the show. Last year they made 48,628 scones and this year they broke the record with 53,872.

Continuing clothing collection In 2013 Bellingen Council in conjunction with Coffs Coast Waste Services conducted a trial to remove clothing and textiles from the waste stream and divert more material from landfill.

The project proved so successful that the program has been introduced permanently. Residents are able to use specially designed recy-

cling satchels to place clean, unwanted clothing and textiles in their yellow recycling bin for collection.

Additional bags can be collected from the Bellingen Council Administration Centre or any of Council’s Waste Facilities. For more information contact the Coffs Coast Waste Services hotline on 1800 265 495.

facilities.

The local Oncology Unit over the years has been very grateful for the hundreds of turbans and beanies made by our girls.

Anyone interested in our work please contact Jean on 6662 1298 or Barbara on 6661 2530 for more information.

(above) Jean Andrews & Betty Gill with reading mats and toilet bags for foster children. (left) Betty Gill and Barbara Flear presenting knee rugs to residence of St Michaels Home. Images: Contributed

TAXI TRANSPORT SUBSIDY SCHEME If eligible you can travel for 1/2 PRICE*

DON’T FORGET VETERAN’S SERVICES THE MAXI TAXI Carries up to 10 passengers & wheel chair accessible vehicle

Yamba Taxis & Hire Car Services are NSW Government Accredited to carry Veteran Affairs Gold & White card holders in Yamba, Iluka, and all surrounding areas. TRAVEL FREE OF CHARGE TO HEALTH AND MEDICAL RELATED APPOINTMENTS, AS AUTHORISED. “Be transported in fully licenced chauefer driven luxury vehicles”.

For more information and booking details contact 6645 5888

YAMBA TAXIS Meeting planes, trains and buses

PHONE: 6645 5888

*People with permanent disabilities: aged immobile, deaf, confined to a wheelchair, ambulatory problems, vision impaired, epilepsy, Intellectual or other functional disabilities. For further information and application forms phone Yamba Taxis on 6645 5888

Revolution - July 2017

5

OUR COMMUNITY

What can we say?

The Ballina Lighthouse RSL Day Club held a ‘Beach Day’ last November. The male volunteers performed to the song “Yellow Dot Bikini”. There was much hilarity in the Richmond Room which was filled with laughter during the performance.

The men looking great in their...yellow dot bikinis.

And the backside. Images: Glenda Lucks

Editors Note: Way to go guys - great to see such sexy backsides and fun. I wish I looked as good in a bikini. :)

A BUSY TIME FOR GRAFTON SENIOR CITIZENS Grafton Senior Citizens have been very busy recently, with a soup and games day in May, then in June, a pie and pea day, with potato and gravy, followed by dessert of fresh fruit salad and ice cream. There were also competitions, trivia and card games.

In May there was a day bus trip to Aranyani Bison Farm, near Whiporie, with information about Bisons and a feeding demonstration.

Then to Casino to purchase lunch, before proceeding to Coraki and Woodburn.

A mystery trip in June began with a visit to Lanbruks Gunyah, Carrs Peninsula, for morning tea, plus time to view museum and working farm. A drive to Maclean followed, with a visit to Espresso Botero for lunch in their cafe and a talk and view of processing. After a drive to view progress on the new Harwood bridge, the day concluded with a visit to three galleries in Ulmarra.

More recently, members learned that following Clarence Valley Council's decision to lease Community

Centre to a Government Department, all current tenants, including Grafton Seniors, will need to vacate to alternate premises.

Members are disappointed with decision but have no choice but to accept it.

While there is a lack of suitable venues, fortunately a room has been found at Grafton Racecourse. This venue is at ground level, is air conditioned, has a lockable storeroom, amenities, plenty of close parking and we can have exclusive use each day. The date of the move is expected to be the latter half of July, and all members will be advised of the actual date.

Future special activities include a Winter Christmas in mid-July, with a 2-course lunch, and entertainment, with over 80 booked.

Next coach trip is a 7-day tour to Toowoomba, Lockyer Valley, and Brisbane area from 18 August. Final arrangements of the tour are currently in progress.

In September, a day bus trip is planned to Summerland House Farm,

Alstonville.

A singalong morning, with morning tea and entertainment by Ukettes, up to 40 ukulele players, is also planned for September, and both these activities will go on sale at the July meeting.

Day trips to Madura Tea, Murwillumbah, in October, and our annual picnic in November, as well as annual Christmas luncheon in early December, will complete years trips and special activities.

Regular activities of Housie (bingo) first and second Tuesday only, carpet bowls, craft, Hoi (cards), Mahjong and Euchre (cards) are held every week.

Senior Citizens members are urged to continue to support all activities after the move. Prospective new members are also still encouraged to apply to join, by visiting the new venue on the morning of the meeting, the second Tuesday of the month, or any Thursday morning. Further information is available from Publicity Officer, Sandra Connelly.

Phone 6642 7720.

Beautiful furniture in a beautiful backdrop styles can work together.

Alstonville Furniture Company specialises in Australian made products providing you with the option of having pieces custom made to suit your needs. Most of their lounges are Australian made allowing you to choose from many different materials and patterns and adjust the size of the piece to fit your room and decor perfectly.

Knowing how important choosing the right furniture for your home is, the staff are more than happy to spend time ensuring your final choice is functional, comfortable and will suit your lifestyle and budget. The staff keeps abreast of all the latest trends in the furniture industry so

Alstonville Furniture Co. The Old Butter Factory

5 Lismore Rd Alstonville 6628 6212 www.alstonvillefurnitureco.com.au

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July 2017 - Revolution

are able to help you achieve the style that you are looking for whether it be modern, contemporary or traditional.

Whether you want to mix and match or customise to suit your needs you can tailor a look that is perfect for your home.

Call in and see the friendly staff at Alstonville Furniture Company or call them on 02 6628 6212. They are open Monday to Friday from 8.30am - 5pm, Saturdays from 9am - 4pm and closed Sundays and public holidays. The Old Butter Factory is located at 3 Lismore Road, Alstonville.

This is truly a showroom worth taking the drive to see.

We won’t be beaten on LA Z BOY prices!

CVI©170726

Whether your downsizing now that the kids have left home, are looking at updating your home's decor or simply need a new piece to brighten a room, before you buy anything, it is well worth taking a look at the range and quality of furniture at Alstonville Furniture Company, which is located in The Old Butter Factory, at Alstonville.

The Old Butter Factory provides a beautiful backdrop to the large range of furniture on display where you will find new, modern, traditional and recycled pieces for every room in your home. The showroom is stylishly presented giving you the opportunity to see how various items and

WEEKLY DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE FROM GRAFTON TO TWEED HEADS North Coast Seniors

OUR COMMUNITY

WIRES

to the rescue

Since 2004, WIRES Northern Rivers has covered an 8800-square kilometer area, encompassing Ballina, Byron, Kyogle, Lismore and the Richmond Valley. The all-volunteer group rescues injured or orphaned wildlife and cares for them until they can be released.

Their mission includes educating the public about native wildlife.

WIRES always needs additional members, especially those interested in birds. Of the more than 7,800 rescues made in 2016, about half were birds. The bird team handles a constant flow of rescues and ongoing care demands and there are never enough avian carers. During breeding season, extra effort goes into reuniting chicks with their parents: there were about 450 success stories last season.

New members take basic orientation and rescue training, available at various times each year.

They do rescues, initial

Don’t let stairs hold you back

assessment and care and wildlife transport.

Volunteers also operate the Branch hotline phone shifts, fundraising, government liaison, membership/recruitment/ training, public education, publicity, purchasing, etc., all overseen by the Branch Committee. Your help would be welcome in whatever area you wish to contribute. Your time or share your expertise.

For those interested, WIRES offers specialised advanced training. Bird carers do an Avian Care course before launching into practical work under the guidance of a species coordinator.

Our bird coordinator says ‘Watching a bird fly back to freedom is an amazing, positive feeling that is hard to describe...

It swells your heart and fills you with joy.’

Join WIRES, won’t you?

Call WIRES Northern Rivers on our 24-hour hotline at 6628 1898 to find out more.

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7

OUR COMMUNITY

FREEMASONRY & RELIGION ple rule that those wishing to join should be just, upright and free men who believed in God. This is still the position in the present day.

Freemasonry is not a religion and does not apply any “test” beyond Freemasonry, as it the expectation that a survives today, probably Brother freely expresses originated in Scotland belief in a benign God. in the last decades of the In many Lodges it is not sixteenth century. In unusual to see Christians, those days all of its mem- Hindus, Muslims and bers would have been Jews sitting together and Christian, professing the enjoying a meal (suitably Catholic faith. adjusted to dietary requireAs the years passed ments) after the meeting. on the Continent and Masons have never in Britain, religion ‘banned’ Catholics became a contentious from joining the Craft. subject because of the Some Lodges during Reformation and, later the the Revolutionary periCounter-Reformation. By od in France took up the end of the eighteenth an anti-clerical line and century, as more and were condemned by the more Jewish folk became Church, but this was never involved in business universal Masonic policy. and society, their men However, negative percepalso began to express an tions are stubborn, and in interest in joining local the post-war years, it was Lodges. certainly more common All organisations adjust for Protestants to apply for to the world around them. membership.

Masonry adopted the simMisunderstandings

persist between some religious groups and Freemasonry, and very unhelpful things have been written on both sides. The fact is, the Lodge encourages its members to practice their faith and develop spiritually. Several men have confided in your writer that they found their way to church – or back to church – through Masonry.

Some Masonic orders beyond the Craft (‘Blue Lodge’ as it is sometimes called) are specifically Christian. The Knights Templar, for example, requires petitioners to hold a Trinitarian belief, and its ceremonies draw extensively on the Gospels and other parts of the New Testament.

The essential aim of Freemasonry is to foster tolerance, mutual understanding, dialogue and respect for one another.

Its positive but inclusive approach to religion is one of the reasons it continues to attract and unite men around the world.

How healthy is your air conditioner?

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Although we regularly clean accessible filters, the internal parts of your air conditioner harbours harmful bacteria colonies that can be introduced into the air within your room(s), triggering respiratory distress especially for asthma and allergy sufferers. After a long hot summer, air conditioner temperatures are now being turned up as we head into the winter months which creates a perfect breeding ground for contaminants and micro-organisms within the unit itself.

With a yearly Sanitair Premium service, not only will these contaminants be removed it also restores the health of your air conditioning unit and can also achieve up to 30% in energy savings (per 35sqm room).

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July 2017 - Revolution

North Coast Seniors

OUR COMMUNITY

Music is “soul food” Sometimes Shakespeare gets it wrong. In the play, Twelfth Night, he wrote, “If music be the food of love, play on, give me excess of it.”

Music is not the food of love, oysters are, or so we are told. Music is not the food of love it is the food of the soul. That is why so much great music is religious music. It has been said that: “Without music – life would be a mistake.”

We can understand how a combination of words, which have a meaning and a beauty of their own, can inspire or move us and bring tears to our eyes. But how does music have the same or even greater effect? How is it that an instrumental piece, whether a driving rock song or a great classical piece such as Beethoven’s Ode to Joy can cause tears to course down your cheeks?

Have you ever sat in a church listening to organ music and not been uplifted?

The other thing about music is that it requires the best of our nature to create music, whether a choir, an orchestra or even a rock group, the members have to work together, to be unselfish and each play their part.

Good music cannot be produced without cooperation.

Then there is the even more puzzling question. What sort of a brain can compose music? We string words together in our everyday conversation. Authors and poets do essentially the same thing but with much more skill. Where does a composer’s inspiration come from and what sort of brain can create a melody and all the different levels that support the melody line?

The Clarence River U3A is fortunate that it has two groups dedicated to music.

Doug Towner’s ‘Music Appreciation’ group, meeting on the second and fourth Friday each month, is possibly the most popular group in CRU3A. Doug challenges us to listen to the music, to identify what it is we like. “I know what I like” is not an acceptable answer. Samples of music are played and explanation of various aspects given to us. Even if you do not understand it all, two hours of good music is a fine way to spend a Friday afternoon. As a bonus, Doug’s afternoon teas are exceptional.

Ann Gray’s ‘Let’s All Sing’ meets every Thursday where a group of enthusiastic amateurs gets together for an afternoon of fun, song, and soul replenishment.

What is great about this team is the enjoyment they give to the community with concerts at various venues. Their new program, Around the World in Sixty Minutes was launched at Caroona last month. They regularly sing at venues such as the Maclean Services Club, the Hospital Auxiliary, and Mareebra Aged Care.

The group has started looking at their next program, un-named at the moment, featuring songs from the 60’s or thereabouts.

For more information on Clarence River U3A visit http://cru3a.u3anet.org.au or email them on tocru3a@ gmail.com

MACLEAN

Bangalow CWA races down the main street

Bangalow CWA recently took to the streets in the annual Billy Cart Derby. Racing down the main street of Bangalow was a truly terrifying feat but our intrepid member Claire O’Meara accomplished it with much support from the sidelines. Our Billy Cart, decorated by members, was easily identifiable amongst the many taking part in this community event showcasing old fashioned outdoor fun. (see photo) The day is a must on the regional calendar and, with perfect weather, was well attended by thousands.

Of course those thousands who attended the 17th consecutive Derby needed to eat which provided the perfect opportunity for a CWA Devonshire Tea. Members opened the rooms and served warm scones, jam and cream from morning till the last billy cart rolled down the street.

As the saying goes, we are much more than tea and scones however, and have been keeping very busy with many activities in and for women and children in our local community and beyond.

Remember to Shop Local – particularly in those towns doing it tough after the recent floods Come and visit us and say hi – we are open daily (except Sunday) from 9am – 2pm.

Retire with passion

Three years ago Alister and Nicki Shepherd moved from the Gold Coast to Yamba to retire. They say it was one of the best decisions they have ever made.

Alister worked in the building industry most of his working life but always wanted to follow his passion of preserving old home movies.

It all started after they got married in 1969, the same year man landed on the moon. We sold Nicki’s beautiful wedding dress so we could afford to purchase a super 8mm movie camera. We wanted to record all the good times our future held for us.

It was about that time VHS recorders were for sale in the shops. Alister figured out how to copy the super 8mm films and put them on video tapes so

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people could watch their movies without having to own a movie projector.

It didn’t take long and everyone wanted their movies transferred to videotape.

Now living in beautiful Yamba Alister has the time to enjoy all that Yamba has to offer and to finally do what he enjoys doing.

He also transfers all those old boxes of photos and 35mm slides most people have collecting dust in cupboards.

Alister is still amazed at the reaction people have when they see their old home movies and photos on their television, people cannot believe how clear the images are and how good they were looking all those years ago.

Only a couple of weeks ago Alister put a short movie he had taken in 1975 on Facebook.

Overnight family and friends had viewed it 1750 times.

The under 30s really love looking at all the old movies and photos on their phones and tablets.

It really makes a lot of sense to have all these old images transferred to help protect them from being lost forever due to fire, flood and deterioration.

Alister is getting an increasing number of enquiries regarding DVDs for funerals. He offers a very fast turnaround if you mention it is required for a funeral.

All you need to supply is up to 75 photos or slides and a couple of favourite songs on CD. Your DVD will be ready in two days.

You can phone Alister on 0413 053 246 with any questions you may have or visit his website www.easytime.com.au

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North Coast Seniors

Revolution - July 2017

9

OUR COMMUNITY

Honouring our loved one through rituals I write this month’s column with a broken heart. My darling Mum has recently passed away. Words cannot describe the intensity of the loss I am feeling. One consolation is the empathy I have for those of you who have lost someone dear to your heart has dramatically intensified.

It seems the older we become, the more grief we experience. I was talking to an elderly person recently who informed me there will be no one at her funeral as everyone in her life has already passed away. I acknowledged that she has experienced a huge amount of grief, and she agreed. We then discussed ways to help lighten the load and soften the pain. One area we focused on that really resonated with her was the concept of creating her own rituals to remember and honour her nearest and dearest loved ones who have passed away. She came up with an idea which I will not divulge, but it worked well in her situation, and she discovered some relief from the pain in her heart.

Some rituals after a loss include attending a funeral, wearing black, laying flowers on a grave, placing a wooden cross at a roadside memorial, flying a flag at halfmast etc. Some people create a place in their home with a photo, a candle, and some special mementoes. Creating a personalized sacred place is a very individual process and may evolve over time.

Here are some other ideas:

Treasure some keepsakes (sample of his or her handwriting, or keeping a piece of his or her clothing etc.).

Some people have a photo in a locket.

One lady I know wears her husband’s wedding ring on a chain around her neck.

Another woman I met had a picture of her son tattooed on her arm.

Old videos and DVDs are good to watch. I always knew that my sister had some footage with my dad and my brother in them but I couldn’t bring myself to watch the videos. Then one day when I was visiting her I knew it was the right time. The healing tears of sorrow flowed as my heart ached to see them again, and happy memories resurfaced as I saw their smiles and heard their voices again.

I always recommend having a blank journal where people can keep a bereavement diary, write some poetry, use as a scrapbook, or do art etc.

Many people visit the grave and talk to their loved one.

Some write letters whilst others release sky lanterns with messages to their loved one.

Some hold a special ceremony where they throw their loved one’s ashes in a river or the ocean. Some sprinkle them in a garden next to a special rose bush or memorial plaque.

The song ‘Tears in Heaven’ was written

by Eric Clapton after he lost his four year old son, Conor. A grieving person may

want to write a song.

Some people write books.

Others start an on-line blog, or create a Facebook memorial page.

One of my clients made a collage using pictures and items that related to her friend who had tragically passed away.

Some people make cushions out of the loved one’s clothing.

Another person made an altar at the home, and lights candles each day in remembrance of her daughter.

You can get candles, mugs and t-shirts made from a picture of your loved one.

One lady I met was wearing a T-shirt with a picture of her son on it.

If it was a car accident, some people make a roadside memorial.

Someone recently sent me some photos of her friend who’d lost her husband in a fatal truck accident. The photo shoot was completed after the tragedy and a photographer had incorporated a photo of her husband into the new family photos.

Social media provides an avenue for memories to be shared. Facebook not only has numerous support groups, but also memorial pages for those who have passed. The “MuchLoved” memorial website was founded by Jonathan Davies after he’d lost his mother and brother.

It is a website where people can write a memorial and include photos of their loved one. (1) After losing her mum, my friend

Camille began making ‘CamiBears’ which are adorable personalized teddy bears with an internal heart shaped box where the loved one’s ashes can be treasured. (2) The ideas are endless. I always encourage my friends and clients to do something that works for them. I encourage you to do the same.

And yes, I have created a corner of a shelf in my room where there are pictures of my darlings who have passed away.

I have bought a box of those cheap battery-operated candles and I leave one on all the time. And yes, my precious mother’s photo was recently placed amongst them.

Del Marie McAlister is a chaplain, life coach, recreational activities officer and a counsellor specialising in grief, loss and aged care. She has written a few books on grief and runs a grief support group in Ballina.

Del Marie McAlister

Delmariemcalister@yahoo.com 1. http://www.muchloved.com 2. www.cami-bear.com Del Marie’s book EMBRACING GRIEF can be purchased from Createspace: https://www.createspace. com/6971077?ref=1147694&utm_id=6026

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OUR COMMUNITY

St Carthage’s Italian Senior Day Club celebrates 30 years St Carthage’s Community Care is pleased to commemorate the 30 year anniversary of their Italian Seniors’ Day Club on September 15, 2017.

According to Iris Ritt, Manager at St Carthage’s Community Care, the Italian Seniors’ Day Club filled a special niche for the Italians of the Lismore area.

“Many women were based on rural properties and it was very isolating, particularly for those who didn’t have strong English speaking skills,” said Ms Ritt.

Local Italian woman, Elli Gava identified a special need for caring for the aged Italian citizens in the Lismore District, identifying language and cultural difficulties as a barrier for people seeking support.

“In April 1984 I contacted Eni Perin who agreed to join forces and we attended the inaugural meeting of the Senior Italian Support Group held on May 14, 1984 at St Vincent’s Hospital.

“Guided by a team from St

Vincent’s Hospital we established a voluntary service that could be utilised by the community including a list of interpreters on call for the hospital, assistance with social security and other government offices as well as local doctors’ surgeries. St Vincent’s Hospital menu was translated into Italian as was a directory of services available in Lismore,” said Mrs Gava.

With the assistance from St Carthage’s Community Care, Mrs Gava set up the Italian Seniors’ Day Club on September 4, 1987, at the Italo Australia Club, a services club in Lismore.

According to Mrs Gava, the aim of the Italian’s Seniors’ Day Club “was very simple – to provide a day each week where older Italians could meet, play cards, bingo, have lunch and generally socialise with their friends. So people have something to look forward to every week and to get out and enjoy life”.

Thirty years on Elli Gava is still a dedicated volunteer at the Italian Seniors’ Day

Changing lives, one dog at a time ABOVE: Greta, Graham and Jan Permezel.

RIGHT: Andrew and Benji.

North Coast Seniors

Club, leading a team of dedicated volunteers alongside the Coordinators of St Carthage’s Community Care.

“Special mention goes to Jo Walsh who was the St Carthage’s Community Care Coordinator for the Club for 19 years. Ms Walsh won the trust of the members and gained the confidence and respect of the Italian community,” said Mrs Gava.

Before Ms Walsh left, she oversaw the transfer of the Italian Seniors’ Day Club from the Italo Australia Club to its current premises at Goonellabah Community Centre, which has proved to be very popular. On Ms Walsh’s retirement, the Club welcomed St Carthage’s Community Care Coordinator Joan Raison as their new leader.

“Special thanks to everyone who helped along the way, the professionals, all the dedicated volunteers, clients and especially St Carthage’s Community Care who took us under their wing and kept us there.

It will come as no surprise that at Assistance Dogs Australia, they love dogs. Everyone who works at this small, but national charity, that trains Labradors and Golden Retrievers to help people with disabilities, is a committed dog-lover, but CEO Richard Lord is the first to admit that: “We are a people charity. Our mission is to make a difference to the lives of people through the extraordinary power of man’s best friend.”

Here are just two beautiful stories that show the astonishing impact and transforming effect of these sensitive, intelligent, loving canines.

Andrew and PTSD Assistance Dog Benji Like so many of our PostTraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) clients, Andrew was a man struggling with everyday life. He served in the military for 16 years, twice in East Timor — until PTSD health issues forced him to retire. Simple daily activities that most of us take for granted were causing him untold pain and anxiety and his family life was disintegrating. At 42 years old, for this husband and father of three children, the future looked bleak and hopeless.

Enter Benji a black Labrador.

“Finally, I wish to thank my partner Eni Perin for her moral support and practical help without which we would not have achieved our aim,” said Mrs Gava.

For Andrew, having Benji means everything has changed. By simply being beside him, loving him unconditionally, Benji helps with Andrew’s anxieties of being out in public and has reduced his feelings of anger and aggression.

Andrew’s frankness is disarming and moving. “My marriage was being pushed to its limits but now Benji is in our lives, my wife and I are able to talk more easily. My wife has said that I have become a lot calmer and even the kids have noticed the difference. I have been laughing more often, too, something that I had lost. Benji came into our lives just when we needed him the most and it feels like it was meant to be, as if we’ve always known each other.”

Dogs for Dementia Greta is a chocolate Labrador who is rewriting the narrative for Graham Permezel. No longer is he seen as a man with dementia but as a man with a dog, albeit an extremely special one.

In 2015, Hammond Care Dementia Centre and Assistance Dogs Australia launched the Dogs For Dementia program in NSW and Victoria. Graham, 80, was diagnosed with dementia about two and a half years ago. While

About St Carthage’s Community Care St Carthage’s Community Care supports children, young people and adults with disabilities, people with dementia, and older people. St Carthage’s aim to eliminate the three plagues of loneliness, helplessness and boredom by offering opportunities to enhance people’s sense of belonging and well-being. St Carthage’s is a proud fully registered member of The Eden Alternative.

LEFT: Kath Rubbo at the card table.

BELOW: Enjoying their card game is (left to right) Sara Mazzer, Anna Maria Volpatto, and Rosetta Polese.

his wife Jan says the dementia was progressing slowly, Greta’s presence in their home is helping more than they both could have imagined.

The couple thought their pet ownership days were behind them. “It’s been 20 years since we’ve had a dog,” Jan says, but Greta has given Graham a real sense of purpose. He has interactions through her and it gives him real motivation. She also gives me peace of mind because I know if I’m out, Graham has a companion. She follows him around, like his shadow, it is beautiful. We talk a lot through Greta.”

Dementia Centre director associate professor Colm Cunningham says: “Preliminary results from an overseas study show that the presence of the specially trained dogs can help support the person with dementia and carer, extending their capacity to live at home.

“Reduced hospitalisation and delayed admission to residential aged care are possible outcomes. We will also be evaluating the positive impact these beautiful dogs can have on the care-giving relationship and carer well-being.”

To learn more or donate to Assistance Dogs Australia, visit www.assistancedogs.org.au or call toll-free on 1800 688 364.

Revolution - July 2017

11

FEATURE STORY

IF I WERE A

carpenter |GEOFF HELISMA

On April 15, 2012, hundreds of people gathered at The Channon for the launch of the CSG Free Community Strategy, a strategy that went on to play a leading role in having the Northern Rivers declared CSG-free.

At the end of a measured 10-minute speech, keynote speaker Ian Gaillard explained that displaying a ‘Lock the When Ian Gaillard took his first breath, the seed of his activist destiny was already planted. Gaillard’s ancestors were Huguenots (French Calvinist Protestants) and, after more than a century of war, oppression and conflict – predominantly the result of the intransigence of France’s dominant Catholic religion – 400,000 thousand Huguenots fled the country in 1685. His ancestors went to the Netherlands.

“The old man was a Dutch engineer during the war. He ended up on a hospital ship [circa 1941/45], and met a good looking volunteer nurse from NZ. They were ferrying wounded soldiers back from the Middle East to Australia and NZ on a Dutch hospital ship called the ‘Oranje’... they hooked up, got married, and here I am.”

Gaillard’s parents were married in Durban, South Africa, but it was a marriage that meant they could no longer be together. “There was a rule that you could not have married couples on a hospital ship, so Mum had to get off the ship in a place she didn’t know and work and live there for about three years. She was ostracised by the Afrikaners at the time of apartheid, because she used to speak to the Africans and the Indians, the people of colour, just like they were human; she learnt what a real racist set-up it was, so I grew up with those stories.”

Germinated, the activist’s seed of discontent began its growth towards maturity, fertilised by his parents’ bat-

12

July 2017 - Revolution

Gate’ sign wasn’t a barrier to stop gas miners from entering private property ... but it was, as a first step, a sign that sent a strong message.

“If a company really wants to get in they can take you to arbitration ... but they don’t want to, because it affects their social licence,” he told them.

“That’s what we have here today, a

tles with the realities of post-war life and the dehumanising outcomes of apartheid.

Gaillard was born in Holland in 1952; his sister was five years older.

“It was very difficult, everything was broken because of the Nazi occupation, so I spent my first months [of life during] summer in a tent in a forest.

My dad had a tandem bicycle; he’d stick the dog in a basket, my sister in a chair, and me in a cradle across the handle bars. They travelled around a network of bike paths. There was a shortage of fuel and that’s how people got around. They could see the ways things were going in Europe and that it was getting harder for young people to have the kind of freedom that Mum knew about – Dad had grown up in the Dutch East Indies until he was 16.

“They decided to go to NZ In 1953.”

As a teenager growing up in New Zealand, there were two issues that played a formative role in writing Gaillard’s back story: “I was involved in Vietnam moratoriums because as a young man my [conscription] number was about to come up.” France’s nuclear testing in French Polynesia pollinated the activist’s flowers.

New Zealand began protesting against France’s nuclear testing in the mid1960s; in 1973 the New Zealand and Australian governments took France to the International Court of Justice.

Despite the court ruling that the tests cease, France persisted with atmospher-

real groundswell to say they haven’t got a social licence ... GET OUT!” The crowd, made up of people from different walks of life and demographics, clapped and cheered enthusiastically, Lock the Gate signs and banners were raised. Empowered, the people yelled: “GET OUT, GET OUT, GET OUT!”

ic tests until 1974. In the meantime, the New Zealand Government sent two navy frigates, HMNZS Canterbury and Otago, to the test area, with Fraser Colman, the minister for immigration and mines, aboard.

While these were lessons learned for Gaillard, his tokenistic activism began at the very start of New Zealand’s objections to nuclear tests in the South Pacific. “When I was 15 Mum had a 44 gallon drum out the back that she used as an incinerator; I painted a big ‘Ban the Bomb’ sign on the side.

I was politically aware from a very young age and I also grew up with stories about the Second World War from my parents, who were, really, humanitarians.”

Gaillard mostly grew up in New Zealand, but lived in Indonesia when he was 22. He wanted to “explore where Dad came from”, [the Dutch East Indies]. After saving some money on an Australian working holiday, he “walked into East Timor on the Indonesia side, just as the troops were starting to mass for the invasion of East Timor ... so off I went through the islands on different boats and ended up in Java for six months”.

Two years later, in 1976, Gaillard, who was heavily influenced by former CIA agent John Coleman’s Vipassana mediation teachings – Coleman tells his story in his book, The Quiet Mind (1971) – , “helped build a forest meditation centre out of bush poles and

second-hand tin” at the northern NSW village, The Channon.

A group of people from the meditation retreat subsequently bought “a bit of marginal land for $16,000 up above Tuntable Creek and started living on it”.

“We couldn’t individually afford that sort of money so ... we all put in $1,000. We called it an ‘intentional community’. Most of us had travelled in Asia, seen Asian villages; we knew what they looked like and how they functioned; we all aspired to live a little bit simpler by sharing resources.”

Gaillard and his fellow landowners subsequently built “16 buildings which were at various stages of completion.

Then Lismore council issued orders for the buildings’ demolition”.

Enter Labor’s then minister for planning, Paul Landa, who visited the area and listened to the people living on ‘communes’.

Intense lobbying by Gaillard and others in 1980 resulted in changes to the NSW planning laws –Lismore City Council allowed multiple occupancies for communal living in the northern part of its local government area, including those already constructed.

It wasn’t only lobbying that propelled change; Gaillard was learning that the media plays a role in change, too – “our strategy was to build a grandstand for the NSW press, right next to the first house the council were going to demolish”.

North Coast Seniors

FEATURE STORY The lesson learnt here was clearly an evident strategy by the time the anti coal seam gas (CSG) blockade at Bentley came to pass in May 2014.

During that time, Gaillard spent three weeks protesting at Terania Creek, sometimes camped in a tree, – this battle put rainforests on the Australian political agenda (ABC) and it was the first time citizens physically defended a rainforest by placing themselves in front of police and loggers (The Northern Star).

“I was a young man then and not as sure of myself ... I didn’t say a lot but I was there and prepared to put my body on the line when they came for the trees.”

During a seminar Gaillard organised in Lismore, to advocate for a nuclear free Pacific, he invited a trade union leader, Bill Ethell, to speak. Ethell was then the Western Australian state secretary of the building workers union.

“I announced at the seminar that, with a lot of people I knew, I was going down to Sydney and I was going to find a boat and finance it and sail across the Pacific Ocean.”

A combination of events had brought Gaillard to pursue this course of action: The imminent commissioning of USA’s first Trident submarine, which had mind-blowing nuclear capacity, and watching the film, Apocalypse Now. “Each Trident is two football fields long, four stories high and has 24 rockets with a range of 6,000 nautical miles. Atop each rocket are eight MIRVs (multiple re-entry vehicles), each one with the destructive power of five Hiroshima size nuclear bombs.

That gave each Trident submarine the power to annihilate 240 cities. General Electric built 26 of these things for the USA Military Industrial Complex.

“When I saw them napalming the forests in Vietnam [in Apocalypse Now] – I lived in a forest; we are all people of the forest – I thought if they

Ian Gaillard (front right), with Bill Ethell’s children and some of the crew, as Pacific Peacemaker leaves Christchurch, New Zealand, bound for Mururoa Atoll, Hawaii and the Trident blockade in Seattle, USA.

North Coast Seniors

use these nuclear weapons onboard the Trident, we would all suffer 240 million years of radiation or 1,000 years of radiation fallout, and I was aware of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

“I decided we would get a boat in Australia, we would sail it across the Pacific and we would join in an international blockade of the first Trident to be home-ported near Seattle. When I announced this at the seminar, Bill Ethell said he would skipper the boat. I said, ‘great’, shook hands and we started working from there.”

Soon enough a 54-foot motor sailor was found in Sydney – a deposit was loaned to the protestors by their friends and “a number of people took out $250 shares in the boat”.

“We called the campaign ‘Pacific Peacemaker’ and the boat by the same name ... and off we went with an international crew. We sailed to New Zealand where the people had a very strong anti-nuclear policy.”

Ethell also remortgaged his home to underwrite the boat’s purchase.

Several incidents involving the Pacific Peacemaker, which attracted the media’s attention internationally, were soon to follow – first stop, Mururoa Atoll, where France conducted nuclear tests from 1966 to 1996.

Thirty days after leaving New Zealand, the Pacific Peacemaker was “met by a French minesweeper and we were told not to come within the 12 mile zone”, however, the boat crossed the 12 mile zone and “gendarmes came aboard”.

“We tried to deliver a message to the French admiral; we wanted a meeting to discuss matters nuclear in the South Pacific.”

The night was spent being circled by two French mine sweepers, focussing their “search lights on us”.

“In the morning we went for the harbour entrance ... and the mine sweeper came across our bows. We did a quick 360 and we were on our way again ... it was getting dangerous. They came alongside with a crane, in choppy seas, and smashed our mizzen mast, which came down swinging with a jagged edge.”

Meanwhile, those onboard were taking photographs. Fearing the boat would be searched, the films were stashed in the lentils and rice among the crew’s food stores. The Pacific Peacemaker was towed beyond the 12-mile zone and cast adrift.

“We were handicapped; so we decided to go to Tahiti and on the way, via radio, Bill organised an NZ trade unionist Mike

Ian Gaillard on camera during the filming of award winning documentary The Bentley Effect, which was directed by Brendan Shoebridge. www.thebentleyeffect.com

Moore, who later became NZ prime minister, and Gordon Macintosh, a WA senator, whom arrived in Tahiti to make sure we didn’t get beaten up upon arrival, like David McTaggart [chief spokesman and chairman of Greenpeace International from 1979 until 1991] had.”

Upon arriving in Tahiti, the Pacific Peacemaker was impounded by French authorities for intruding into territorial waters. “Skipper Bill Ethell was fined and the French threatened to hold the yacht for months — until three Australian maritime unions counter-attacked by ‘arresting’ the French container vessel, Kangoorou, in Australia’s Botany Bay,” is how New Internationalist magazine retold the incident in a March of 1983 story, ‘Voyage Of The Peacemaker’.

“In the end it was decided it wasn’t the French Navy’s fault; it wasn’t our fault; it was an act of God that they rammed us and broke the mast. A French churchman paid Bill’s fine. We repaired the mast, stuck a bit of 4x4 in the middle of the aluminium mast, screwed it all together and set sail for Hawaii. Half way there, just after the French air force had dropped off, the rudder fell off and sunk to the bottom of the ocean.

“Bill went over the side and came up and says with his north Lancashire accent: ‘The f$%*&^’ rudder’s gone!’

So then we fashioned a rudder out of a jarrah plank, three bits of plywood and nuts and bolts. Old ropes lashed it under the hull; we sailed a thousand miles through the trade winds to Hawaii.”

Next stop: Port Ludlow (Oak Bay near Seattle), Washington State, USA, the soon-to-be home port for the USA’s Trident submarine.

Following the confrontation between various protest groups and the US coast guard and navy, the New York Times reported on August 13, 1982: “The Peacemaker, which had come from Australia to protest the presence of Trident weapons systems in the Pacific, released 10 rowboats filled with protesters moments before it was

intercepted by Coast Guard boats.”

Gaillard says “part of a non-violent protest is saying what you are going to do before you do it: ‘We are going to blockade this submarine, we don’t think it is a good thing to have around.

The US has no right to threaten the rest of the world with these enormous destructive weapon systems.’

Ian Gaillard protesting against a planned rare earth plant at Tuncester. Media reported: 'The Terania Creek protest will look like a picnic compared to the demonstrations which will be staged if the rare earth plant is given the go ahead by Lismore City Council.'

Revolution - July 2017

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FEATURE STORY “The day the Trident was coming ... there were 100 coastguard boats in the operation, large coastguard cutters and so on; and lots of helicopters in the sky, the navy and the media. So we went out to blockade this submarine, towing a 500-foot towline and 10 little dories. There were other boats, one with the American mother of the year, and various activists. The coast guard came for us with water cannons. There were commandos and zodiacs, and we were eventually taken into custody in handcuffs.�

Gaillard says he and his shipmates were handcuffed for eight hours, The day before the Trident blockade at Oak Bay near Seattle. “which hurts after a little “The US Government said, ‘We will while; it's a lot of strain throw you in jail for 10 years and give on your arms to hold them behind your you a $10,000 fine.’ back. We were taken to the Trident “There was a big build-up, we were base, right past the submarine as it was waiting, practising; we had a 500 foot being docked, while the welcome ceretow line with 10 little dories filled with mony was going on.� older people: nuns, priests, architects; During a search of the Pacific people from the US who didn’t like Peacemaker, “the bomb squad found what their government was doing. these silver foil packets under the “Then the press started coming out floorboards, which were taken away ... and interviewed us; the world’s and analysed�. press was at our door. “The Seattle papers screamed

‘Suspicious vegetable substance found aboard Pacific Peacemaker’. On page 75, days later, a red-faced coast guard officer was forced to admit it was a nice grade of tea. Community Aid Abroad had given us 80 fair trade tea packets.�

As it turned out, only one person from the Pacific Peacemaker was arrested, a film maker, for something that Gaillard did, “which wasn't very non-violent�. “As the commandos came in, with a machete I lifted the towrope and knocked one out of his boat. They arrested the film-maker who was standing next to me. We were taken away ... but they dropped the charges, because the world’s media had cottoned onto it.�

Freed, Gaillard and his like-minded advocates went on a public speaking tour of major cities on the USA’s west coast.

Over the following three decades Gaillard has engaged peripherally with several contentious issues, lobbying politicians and running campaigns against or about things such as damming the Amazon rainforest, the trans-migration project in India, the three gorges project in China and investigations into where the money ends up through bilateral and multilateral aid programs.

In 2011, Gaillard found himself right in the middle of the anti-CSG movement. He’d seen the anti-CSG movie,

Gasland, which purported the “devastation, nature and scope� of the industry in the USA. Soon he joined a group called the Keerrong Gas Squad and a public awareness campaign began.

In 2011, he addressed Lismore City Council, regarding a motion, put up by then councillor David Yarnell, proposing a moratorium on CSG exploration. “The council went with it; the first council to oppose CSG, and they strengthened that further on; Jenny Dowell was the mayor. “We were going to have to do civil disobedience to actually stop this, in conjunction with political lobbying. We started printing Lock the Gate signs on a screen printer in the Keerrong Hall, once a week, and selling them for $2 and that funded [some of] the campaign.�

That campaign ended at the Bentley Blockade – the diverse demographical, cultural and agricultural industry interests had convinced the government that the industry had failed to gain or maintain a ‘social licence’: the CSG was industry was banned from the Northern Rivers.

Gaillard, at 64-years-old, splits his time between his Keerrong Valley and Iluka homes; he has worked at many different jobs to make a living during his activist years and is still working as a carpenter.

This article was originally published in Scene magazine in March 2017.

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FINANCE & LEGAL

Checklist for health this The NDIS new financial year

You can use these simple tips to help you make sure your finances are on the right track for the year ahead.

The start of a new financial year is the perfect time to give yourself the gift of a better financial future and the retirement you want and deserve. Regardless of your stage of life or financial standing, conducting regular financial health checks is a smart way of fine-tuning your life goals and creating wealth, and this month is the perfect opportunity.

RESET YOUR GOALS Things change in life and work, and your financial plans need to reflect this. Maybe you want to increase your savings to prepare for retirement, change your investment strategy or focus on cutting your debt.

Start your health check by rethinking your short and long-term goals. Make sure they are specific and realistic, and write them down so you have extra motivation to see them become a reality.

REDRAFT YOUR BUDGET Perhaps you bought a new car, some new shares, or your bills have increased. These types of changes can have an impact on your finances and need to be factored into your budget. It sounds obvious but is often forgotten – make sure you update your budget to reflect all your income, including any investment dividends or pensions, and outline all your regular payments. It’s also a good idea to take the opportunity to review your bills and spending and cut out non-essential costs where possible.

GET YOUR DEBTS DOWN It is important to be aware of your current debts and those that are likely to come your way this financial year. Write down a complete list of where you owe money, including personal loans, credit cards

and home loans, and detailing the debt amount, minimum repayments and interest. Anything that incurs a high interest should be tackled first, and prioritise paying off any non-tax deductible debt.

MAINTAIN GOOD RECORDS Keeping a close eye on your financial records will make your life easier come tax time, and also help you understand your spending habits and any possible deductions. As well as keeping all relevant receipts, another way to do this is to apply for a credit card with a low rate that you use strictly to pay for things that could be deductible at tax time so you will be well prepared for next year.

EXAMINE YOUR INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES Objectives and financial positions can shift quickly for a range of reasons, so you should always review your investments with your objectives in mind. You need to determine your short and long-term goals so an investment strategy can be devised to achieve each aim. One of the best ways to do this is to consult a financial planner to discuss your financial goals and how you can reach them.

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR SUPER Whatever age you are, understanding your superannuation outlook can help you plan ahead. If possible, you could consider making contributions to boost your super and save for retirement. Salary-sacrificing some of your pre-tax salary into your super fund can be one of the most tax-efficient ways to invest for retirement. You could also consider making non-concessional contributions (using after-tax money) to your superannuation. A financial planner can assist you to ensure your contributions are compliant with the law and in line with your financial goals.

CONSULT A FINANCIAL PLANNER FOR EXPERT ADVICE Any changes you make to improve your financial position can help put you on the path to a more positive future, and a financial planner can give you specific personalised advice to give you confidence that you are on the right track to achieve your financial goals and the retirement you want and deserve.

Set aside some time and focus on these important financial checks – and once you’ve taken stock, take advantage of the expertise of a financial planner.

They are there to help you.

Hugh Humphrey is the General Manager Bank Financial Planning, Commonwealth Bank

This is Alan...

Alan has a great accountant.

The NDIS is the new way of providing support for people with disabilty, their families and carers. Residents of the Northern Rivers and mid North Coast are now eligible to access the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

The National Disability Insurance Agency is responsible for delivering the NDIS. The NDIS will provide people with a permanent and significant disability with the reasonable and necessary supports they need to live an ordinary life.

The NDIS will support you throughout your life for as long as you need it, so this pathway will continue on, and you’ll update your plan as your needs change.

Reasonable and necessary supports help people with disability achieve their goals, including independence, community involvement, employment and wellbeing. Supports may include personal care and support, access to the community, therapy services and essential equipment.

The NDIS also provides people with disability, their families and carers with information and referrals to support services in the community.

To become an NDIS participant you must: • have a permanent impairment that significantly affects your ability to take part in everyday activities, or have a developmental delay; • be aged less than 65 when you first apply to enter the NDIS and meet additional age requirements if you live in SA or TAS; • live in Australia in an NDIS area on a specified date; • be an Australian citizen or hold a permanent visa or a Protected Special Category visa.

Note: If some of the above requirements are not met but you live in a NSW NDIS area that is phasing and you are under 65 years of age, you may still meet the access requirements if you are in an existing qualifying program.

For more information about access and eligibility, and starting your first plan, you can call the NDIA on 1800 800 110 or visit their website: www.ndis.gov.au Revolution will have more information on the NDIS in our next edition.

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Revolution - July 2017

15

FINANCE & LEGAL

The cost of cosiness

Home safe: legal advice can help you protect your rights |LAURA CROWDEN, ISELECT

With winter well and truly settled in, there is nothing better than cranking up the heating and cosying up on the couch with a good book or your favourite TV show.

However, in saying that there is nothing worse than opening your energy bill at the end of winter and reading just how much all that winter-warming has cost you.

During winter, energy consumption for most households is at its highest with energy-hungry appliances like heaters, electric blankets and dryers running on overdrive.

This leaves you in a bit of a conundrum… Your first thoughts are that you can either shiver through it and wait for spring or grit your teeth and foot the bill.

To be honest neither option is that appealing. Freezing it out by limiting your heater and electric blanket use can make for a miserably cold winter period, while gritting your teeth and paying whatever bill comes your way can be a dangerous practice as you never know how much it will be until the opening of that dreaded envelope.

Now while there is nothing you can do to eliminate your winter energy bills all-together, there are some simple things you can do to minimise your energy costs and add some predictability into the situation.

Smooth out your billing If quarterly bills are difficult to manage, ask your provider about bill smoothing which will divide your annual usage into even monthly instalments, making your bills more predictable and depending on your circumstances, more manageable.

Lock it in Some providers are offering fixed rate plans which give you the peace of mind of fixing your rates for up to two years with no price rises

guaranteed.

Opt out of paper With technology becoming more and more commonplace, there can be savings for consumers who opt for a direct-debit or paperless billing options such as email.

Pay on time and save Signing up for a discounted pay on time plan can be a great way to access savings with some providing reductions of up to 30% off bills.

This is a great option if you always pay your bills on time, but if you often pay them late you may end up paying more than you bargained for.

Let’s go shopping!

If you haven’t reviewed your energy contract for a few years, it’s likely you are no longer getting the best deal and could be paying a lot more than you need to. In addition to this, many energy providers are offering generous introductory offers or discounts to new customers. The best way to do this is by speaking to an energy expert like iSelect to find out whether a different provider or payment plan could provide better value.

So don’t compromise on cosiness this winter… just do a little homework and find a better way to afford it!

About iSelect At iSelect, we get that most people find insurance, utilities and personal finance boring. But we understand that it’s really important to always get these things right. As Australia’s life admin store, iSelect gives customers the confidence to make the right call on some of the things that matter most.

Our highly-trained experts at iSelect HQ help customers to choose and buy from thousands of available policies, products and plans. And we provide our advice at no cost to the customer.

We compare and sell some of Australia’s biggest brands but are proud to be 100% independently owned. From health and life insurance through to energy and broadband, as well as car insurance and home loans, iSelect helps Australians take care of the boring but important stuff. www.iselect.com.au

Rising property prices and housing unaffordability in NSW may be putting older people at greater risk of elder abuse, Legal Aid NSW has warned.

Lee Critchley, a lawyer who has extensive experience helping older people understand and protect their rights, says elder abuse includes situations in which financial harm is caused to an older person by someone they trust.

“Sadly, elder abuse tends to be a family affair,” Ms Critchley said.

“Often as they age, people come to rely on relatives for care, companionship or support in dayto-day chores like banking and paying the bills.

“In cases of elder abuse, the abuser is taking advantage of the older person’s trust and vulnerability.

“You may have heard of the idea of ‘inheritance impatience’. This can

occur when someone – perhaps an adult child, or even a grandchild – believes they will inherit the older person’s home or other assets when they die, and begins to regard those assets as theirs already.

“When house prices rise dramatically, ‘inheritance impatience’ can loom large. And when young people are struggling to afford their first home, their parents may want to offer a helping hand.

Either way, there can be risks for older people.”

In one case seen by Legal Aid NSW, an elderly couple agreed to enter into a $200,000 loan as co-borrowers with their son. The loan was secured against their home, on the understanding that their son would use the money to build a house, and that he would make all the repayments.

The couple’s son then

had the loan increased, and later contacted a finance broker to talk about refinancing. In the end, the elderly couple found themselves listed as co-borrowers on a loan of $300,000 – secured against their home.

Ms Critchley said that older people looking to support loved ones financially should make sure they understand the risks involved.

“Do your homework before you sign anything.

It’s a good idea to seek independent legal advice before committing to anything – don’t just rely on your child or your bank.

And above all, remember it’s okay to say no,” Ms Critchley said.

If you need legal information or advice, you can call LawAccess NSW on 1300 888 529 for the cost of a local call, or visit www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au to find a service near you.

ESTATE MANAGEMENT Your “estate” is not just what you leave when you die. You have an estate whilst you are alive, not just what you own but you as a person. Estate planning is therefore not just preparing a will which does not have any effect until you die, but preparing for what might happen whilst you are alive if you can’t manage your “estate” – your financial affairs and your personal well-being.

Many financial planners suggest you get “estate planning” advice. This is legal advice about your will to ensure your estate passes as you wish after you die, and whether you should appoint an Enduring Power of Attorney and an Enduring Guardian so your financial

and personal affairs can be managed whilst you are alive if you can’t manage them yourself.

There are lots of things to think about when you are considering estate planning. Do you want your attorney who might control your affairs during your lifetime to also be the executor of your will? Can your will be contested?

Do you need more than one attorney and guardian and if so, will they be able to act separately or must they act together? Should they act together only for certain transactions? Do you want intervention to prolong your life?

This is the tip of the iceberg. Think about your estate now and get proper legal advice.

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July 2017 - Revolution

Our firm has been established in Ballina for over 20 years. We offer the services of an accredited property specialist and also provide competent and practical assistance in almost all areas of the law including wills, powers of attorney and appointments of guardians. We provide safe and free storage of certificate of titles, wills and other important documents.

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North Coast Seniors

FINANCE & LEGAL

Family + finances might = trouble Case study John* entered into an arrangement with his daughter where he sold his home and gave money to her to buy a new home with a granny flat. He moved into the granny flat and was cared for by his daughter.

The daughter and her husband had a falling out and then ‘John’ was psychologically abused and told to move out. Now with no home, no funds and a reduced pension as a consequence of the earlier gift John faces extreme hardship, with the real possibility of being made homeless.

This scenario is surprisingly common. You love your children and your grandkids and want to help them out, especially now that buying a home is out of reach for many people. But did you know that gifting property or large amounts of money to family or friends could affect your payments from Centrelink? Are you aware that agreeing to be guarantor to a family member or friend’s loan could also impact your age pension?

Or you could be at risk of having to pay out the loan?

advice as soon as possible. Put agreements in writing and ensure documents are up to date when your circumstances change.

Who can help Seniors Rights Service legal, advocacy and education staff regularly deal with: elderly parents part-owning a home with their son or daughter, difficulties between neighbours, loaning money to family members, the gifting of money or assets, consumer issues (debt management, unfair contracts), human rights (elder abuse including financial and discrimination), planning ahead (wills, Power of Attorney, Guardianship), accommodation (granny flats) and a range of other matters. We can offer immediate free and confidential advice over the phone and/or offer a referral to an appropriate service where necessary.

Get advice Uncertainty around financial issues can be avoided by seeking advice well before you make any commitments. Don’t rely on family members to put your interests ahead of theirs. Seek out legal and financial

For more information contact Seniors Rights Service 1800 424 079 info@seniorsrightsservice.org.au www.seniorsrightsservice.org.au Seniors Rights Service will provide immediate advice to all older people.

The service prioritises engagement with older people who are vulnerable and disadvantaged. Seniors Rights Service will support all older people including those from regional, remote and rural locations; those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people who are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander; and older people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex. *This case study is an example of a call to Seniors Rights Service.

This is information only, not legal advice. If you have a legal problem call our service directly or see your lawyer.

Strata living New laws have been introduced in NSW on the collective sale and renewal (redevelopment) of strata schemes. Now 75% of lot owners can agree to end their strata scheme.

This could apply to you if you are the owner of an existing freehold strata scheme.

The new laws do NOT apply to retirement villages.

We give advice on disputes with the Strata Committee, Owners Corporation, Strata Renewal Committee and/or the developer arising from collective sale or redevelopment proposals under the Strata Schemes Development Act 2015.

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Contact Seniors Rights Service Phone 1800 424 079 Email info@seniorsrightsservice.org.au

Your rights.

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Seniors Rights Service provides free, confidential aged care advocacy, advice, education and legal services to all older people in New South Wales. Our legal service provides advice, assistance and education.

Our aged care advocates listen to your concerns and assist seniors to understand their rights under the Aged Care Act 1997. We help people to resolve issues and complaints with aged-care providers.

We work with a wide range of community groups and service providers such as Northern Rivers Community Legal Centre, ACON, RSL Care, Primary Health Care Networks (PHN) and similar organisations.

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North Coast Seniors

Revolution - July 2017

17

SPECIAL FEATURE - MEN’S HEALTH

Men and Osteoporosis Osteoporosis is often mistaken for a disease that only elderly women have, but it does also affect men. 30% of all fractures in people over the age of 50 actually occur in men and around 250,000 men in Australia have osteoporosis with this number increasing.

Like women, there are a number of preventative measures men can take to decrease their risk of developing osteoporosis.

There are a number of preventative measures that can be taken to decrease the risk of developing osteoporosis. The recommendations for significant calcium and vitamin D intake as well as weight-bearing exercise apply as much to men as it does to women.

All three of these factors contribute to healthy bones and should be undertaken regularly to continue the improvement of bone health. However, lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol, inactivity, obesity and low body weight also contribute to low bone health and increase the risk of osteoporosis.

An additional risk factor for males is low testosterone. The male hormone testosterone helps maintain strong bones, and lost

testosterone levels, therefore, increasing the risk of developing osteoporosis and breaking a bone.

Men may lose testosterone due to ageing: however, levels can also be affected by certain medications such as glucocorticoids or treatment for prostate cancer. One

form of treatment for prostate cancer is androgen deprivation therapy, where the amount of testosterone and related hormones are cut back (this can shrink the prostate tumour or slow its growth). Studies have shown that men who have hormone therapy or testes removal are at a significantly higher risk of an osteoporotic fracture.

A simple online bone health

assessment called Know Your Bones is an easy way to start a discussion with your GP about your bone health. A joint initiative of Osteoporosis Australia and the Garvan Institute of Medical Research which generates a report that highlights your risk factors for osteoporosis and detects your risk of fracture if over the age of 50. Once the assessment has been completed you can download and print the report to take to your GP to create an action plan to tackle any risk factors if necessary.

Fitness fanatic and AFL legend David Parkin was diagnosed with Osteoporosis in 2011. ‘The diagnosis of osteoporosis turned my life upside down,’ he said.

‘Despite surviving prostate cancer in 2008, my health generally had been extremely good, up to that point. Due to my early/accurate diagnosis, expert medical guidance, appropriate treatment and support, I continue to live a very normal, active life.’

If you have any concerns or questions about osteoporosis have a chat with you GP or you can call the Osteoporosis Australia Toll-Free helpline number on 1800 242 141.

Fitness for Men Men’s Fitness Class Men’s Health is something we actively promote at Yamba and Maclean Physiotherapy. Our men’s fitness classes provide a forum for working out with mates, talking about a lot or very little, varied and fun exercises with the bonus of helping your health. Whether it be weight loss, diabetes management, heart health or just plain wanting to exercise to be fun that you are looking for, our classes run by qualified exercise physiologists will have something for you.

Our Men’s Fitness class is a 1 hour functional strengthening and cardiovascular training regime that allows for easier everyday movement.

Our class times are: Yamba - Friday @ 10am Maclean - Wednesday @ 2pm and Friday @ 9.30am Men have a pelvic floor too!

We are passionate about Men’s Health and promoting the message that incontinence is not just a ‘woman’s problem’.

In fact, the Continence Foundation of Australia states that an estimated 30 percent of men who visit the GP are affected by incontinence, yet more than two-thirds do not discuss the issue. This is despite the fact that the majority of men can be cured or better managed.

There is strong research to support pelvic floor muscle training as a method of decreasing urinary incontinence post prostate surgery. Our Physiotherapist Meg is trained in the assessment of pelvic floor strength and is passionate about working with men both before and after their surgery to encourage optimal recovery.

If you or someone you know: - is about to undergo prostate surgery - has recently undergone prostate surgery - is having issues with urinary or fecal incontinence +/erectile dysfunction then give us a call on 6645 8522 to arrange an appointment with Meg and regain control of the bits below the belt.

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pro active In Australia a bone is broken due to poor bone health every 3.4 minutes.

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July 2017 - Revolution

North Coast Seniors

SPECIAL FEATURE - MEN’S HEALTH

Men can leak too Urinary incontinence is normally associated with women who’ve had babies or men with prostate issues.

But with World Continence Week taking place last month (June 19-25), it’s nevertheless still timely to remind men that, for the majority of the 4.2 million Australian adults affected by urinary incontinence (of whom 20 percent are male), the main causes can be put down to lifestyle.

While there are certain medical conditions and surgeries that increase the risk of incontinence*, for the majority of the population, incontinence is preventable and treatable.

Apart from prostate disease or surgery, the big culprits for men are: being overweight, constipation, too much or too little fluid consumption, heavy lifting and ageing.

BEING OVERWEIGHT OR LIFTING HEAVY WEIGHTS Carrying extra body weight, or consistently lifting heavy weights can strain the pelvic floor muscles if they’re not in good condition. The pelvic floor muscles are part of the body’s core muscle group, holding up the abdominal organs and helping close off the urinary and anal sphincters.

Stretching these important muscles compromises their ability to shut off the sphincters, which are critical for staying continent.

Prevention: Keeping your body with-

in the healthy weight range will significantly reduce the likelihood of urinary leakage. (Losing just 5 to 10 per cent of body weight reduces the incidence of urinary incontinence by around 70 percent1.)

By ‘engaging’ the pelvic floor, or bracing, before any heavy lifting or high-impact action, there will be less strain on the pelvic floor. Like any muscles, the pelvic floor muscles can be strengthened with specific exercises.

Find out how at pelvicfloorfirst.org.au/ pages/men.html CONSTIPATION Regularly straining on the toilet has the same effect on the pelvic floor as being overweight.

Further exacerbating this, a full, impacted bowel can take up so much space in the abdominal cavity it presses on the bladder and causes urge incontinence (going suddenly and often).

Prevention: Having a balanced diet that includes at least 30 grams of fibre daily, regular exercise and adequate fluid intake are all essential for preventing constipation. It’s also important you empty your bowel as soon as you get the urge (most strongly felt in the morning) and avoid holding on, as this will cause the stool to dry and harden as it sits in the colon.

If you do suffer from chronic constipation, see your doctor.

Drinking too much or too little.

Not drinking enough fluids can cause leakage because concentrated urine irritates the bladder, which causes it to want to expel its contents, resulting in urgency and frequency. Too many caffeinated or fizzy drinks, which also irritate the bladder, can have the same effect.

Conversely, drinking too much – particularly alcohol – puts men at a greater risk of accidental leakage. Apart from the bladder’s struggle to contain so much fluid, alcohol is particularly risky because of its diuretic properties.

Management: Drink enough to satisfy your thirst, which equates to about six to eight glasses of fluid on a normal day; more if the weather’s hot or you’re exercising. You’ll know you’re drinking the right amount by the colour of your urine, which should be pale lemon.

AGEING As we age the muscles and nerves that control our bladder and bowel function become less compliant and responsive.

Management: Exercise, including pelvic floor exercises, will strengthen and tone the pelvic floor muscles, which are important in preventing accidental leakage.

For more information phone the National Continence Helpline (1800 33 00 66), a free and confidential service staffed by continence nurse advisors

who provide advice, referrals, and resources to consumers and health professionals (an interpreter service is available on 13 14 50). Further information is also available at www.continence.org.au *Risk factors for urinary incontinence include neurological and musculoskeletal conditions, diabetes, prostate issues, heart and respiratory conditions and urinary tract infections. Certain surgeries such as prostate surgery and hysterectomy, menopause and some medications also add to the risk.

Wing RR et al. Improving urinary incontinence in overweight and obese women through modest weight loss. Obstet Gynecol 2010 Aug (2 Pt 1): 284-92

STRENGTHENING YOUR PELVIC FLOOR MUSCLES

HOW CAN I FIND MY PELVIC FLOOR MUSCLES? The first step in performing pelvic floor muscle exercises is to identify the correct muscles. There are several ways to identify them.

Method 1 - Stopping the flow When you go to the toilet, try to stop or slow the flow of urine midway through emptying your bladder.

If you are able to do this you are squeezing the correct muscles. Do not do this repetitively. This is not an exercise, but a way to identify the correct muscles.

Method 2 - Visualisation Stand in front of the mirror (with no clothes on) and tighten your pelvic floor muscles. If you are tightening the right muscles, you should see the base of the penis draw in and scrotum lift up. The back passage will tighten too but it is not the focus of the exercise.

When you relax your muscles you should feel a sensation of ‘letting go’.

GETTING THE TECHNIQUE RIGHT Correct technique is very important when doing pelvic floor muscle exercises. You should feel a ‘lift and a squeeze’ inside your pelvis. The lower abdomen

North Coast Seniors

may flatten slightly, but try to keep everything above the belly button relaxed, and breathe normally. A continence physiotherapist, continence nurse advisor or urology nurse can help if you have trouble identifying your pelvic floor muscles.

Exercising your pelvic floor muscles Once you master the art of contracting your pelvic floor muscles, try holding the inward squeeze for longer (up to 10 seconds) before relaxing. If you feel comfortable doing this, repeat it up to 10 times. This can be done three times a day. Make sure you continue to breathe normally while you squeeze in.

You can do the exercise lying down, sitting or standing with your legs apart, but make sure your thighs, bottom and stomach muscles are relaxed.

Many men find it difficult to remember to do their pelvic floor exercises. Linking the exercises to a regular activity such as meal times or brushing your teeth is a good way to incorporate them into your daily routine.

WHEN TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP Seek professional help when you have bladder or bowel control problems with symptoms such as: • needing to urgently or frequently go to the toilet to pass urine or bowel motions • accidental leakage of urine, bowel motions or wind •difficulty emptying your bladder or bowel pain in the bladder, bowel or in your back near the pelvic floor area when exercising the pelvic floor or during intercourse.

These problems may not necessarily be linked to weak pelvic floor muscles and should be properly assessed.

Like all exercises, pelvic floor exercises are most effective when individually tailored and monitored.

The exercises described are only a guide and may not help if done incorrectly or if the training is inappropriate.

Incontinence can have many causes and should be individually assessed before starting a pelvic floor muscle training program. Tightening or strengthening pelvic floor muscles may not be the most appropriate treatment so speak to a health professional if you have persistent problems with your bladder or bowel.

HEALTH PROFESSIONALS Continence or pelvic floor physiotherapists specialise in pelvic floor muscle exercises. They can assess your pelvic floor function and tailor an exercise program to meet your specific needs. They can also prescribe other treatment options such as biofeedback and discuss relevant lifestyle factors with you.

For a list of continence or pelvic floor physiotherapists, search the Continence Foundation of Australia’s service provider directory or call the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66.

Information supplied courtesy: Continence Foundation of Australia. www.continence.org.au IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR MEN WHO HAVE UNDERGONE PROSTATE SURGERY Performing pelvic floor muscle exercises after prostate surgery is vital to your recovery as it is these muscles that help you control your bladder.

Doing pelvic floor muscle exercises after surgery (whilst a urinary catheter is in place) can irritate the bladder and cause discomfort. It is therefore recommended that you do not do any exercises during this time. However, once the catheter is removed you may start the pelvic floor exercises straight away.

For more information on this topic you can order or download a copy of Continence and prostate: a guide for men undergoing prostate surgery from http://www.pelvicfloorfirst.org.au/pages/ pelvic-floor-resource.

Revolution - July 2017

19

NEWS FEATURE - MEN’S HEALTH SPECIAL

YOU’RE NEVER TOO OLD TO LOOK AFTER YOUR SKIN The Clarence Valley has so much on offer.

Beautiful beaches, the mighty Clarence, amazing nature walks, al-fresco dining - the list goes on.

Surfing, fishing, golfing, camping and making the most of nature’s abundance is a privilege afforded to us by our beautiful surroundings. One of the most temperate climates on earth.

Luckily for us, we get to live, work and play here every day but exposure to the elements comes with some responsibility.

You owe it to yourself to have your skin checked, at least annually, by a professional who knows what to look for. Dr Mark Groves and his friendly team including Jess, our registered nurse, Natalie, and Tanya, are here to help you. We aim to offer all of our patients top quality advice and care and to make sure you feel comfortable.

All of our skin checks and surger-

ies including complicated flap repair and facial surgery are done onsite.

That means no time-consuming and expensive travel involved.

Yamba Skin Clinic has been established for seven years and we are constantly upskilling and improving our knowledge in the field of skin cancer and treatment.

Talk to Natalie or Tanya for top tips on everyday skin cancer prevention.

It’s much easier than you think.

Dr Groves offers all patients who hold a Centrelink pension or healthcare card bulk billing for skin checks and all skin surgeries. That means that there is no cost to you.

So now, there’s no excuse. It’s never too late to start taking care of your skin and it’s never too early for a skin check. Men and women, old and young, now is the time to book yourself and your loved ones in for a skin check. Call us on 6645 8155.

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20

July 2017 - Revolution

Dads in Distress

|PETE NICHOLLS

It all started in 1999 on a veranda in Coffs Harbour, in Northern NSW. Tony Miller OAM, started a support group for dads who had separated and who were struggling with some of the oft-unseen challenges that this can bring. The support group, later charity, named ‘Dads in Distress’ was born.

Up to that point, there was very little support for separating men which, despite significant effort to address over the next 18 years continues to be a real challenge today.

Dads in Distress, or DIDs to its followers, grew and today it comprises 18 local groups that meet weekly to support men around the country.

These are peer support groups where dads can get together to find mutual support amongst those experiencing very similar and often overwhelming difficulties.

We’ve all heard of the deadbeat dads that abandon care or support of their children, but how often do we hear of the sheer number of genuinely great dads that find it almost if not impossible to remain in their children’s lives post-breakup, no matter how hard they try.

Few realise that today, parental separation, particularly where custodial issues apply, is one of the greatest single factors behind male suicide.

Each day in Australia, eight people will decide that suicide is the only way out of their difficulties - six of those will be men and the largest group within that - one in four - is men having recently experienced separation.

Think about it, a mature man suddenly losing his much-loved partner, his child, his home, his financial stability, and standing, and commonly even his career through stress, and you have the perfect storm for a tsunami of difficulty that many see no way of avoiding or overcoming. Any one of

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these challenges puts a person at risk of suicide; all of them together and often out of the blue and you start to see the reason so many men will elect to simply end the pain. The issue is a common one across the developed world and few have found an effective means by which to address it.

Here in Australia, thanks to DID, we’ve seen an astonishing turnaround for these dads but there is never enough money to get as many groups running as are needed.

Those 18 local groups, one in Coffs Harbour are real lifesavers but they are but a drop in the ocean with around another 50 or so needed.

As for other Western countries, they haven’t even got those 18 groups so that’s something we can at least be proud of, that a hard working charity out of Coffs has lead the way, internationally.

Today, ‘Dads in Distress’ continues as a named support service but they’ve expanded into catering for mums too with ‘Mums in Distress’ and both of these now sit under a more gender neutral name of ‘Parents Beyond Breakup’, or PBB. PBB continues to operate out of Coffs Harbour and is proud to be one of the most effective grassroots suicide prevention services around. Today, PBB handles over 10,000 parent contacts each year.

In 2016, quality assurance research showed that 51% of those reaching out for help post-separation were suicidal but that within three weeks work by PBB that had dropped to 0%. Now that’s world truly beating performance in a very important area that the town of Coffs can be very proud to claim they saw start on their doorstep.

For more information on Dads in Distress phone the helpline on 1300 853 437 or go to www.dadsindistress.asn.au Casino RSM akrea@live.com.au Mobile, 0414 9958 34 Banora Snooker jackmalone@maloneglass.com Mobile, 0412 141 456 Tai Chi & Qi Gong Banora Point Community Centre Tai Chi 10am and 11.15am Fridays Contact: Margaret 0407 262 950 Qi Gong, 1pm Tuesdays, Contact: Lyn (07) 5523 2030

North Coast Seniors

NEWS SPECIAL FEATURE - MEN’S HEALTH

Prostate Cancer

Blokes: It’s time to ‘man up’ in the kitchen Cooking at home is one way to pack a punch when it comes to getting in the nutrition you need and ultimately, helping to keep you healthy.

Numerous studies suggest people who cook at home more often have healthier overall diets. Recent research published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine found that those who spent more time preparing food at home ate vegetables and fruit more often, compared with those who spent less time in the kitchen.

Despite the benefits, a survey by the Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA) of more than 800 men found Aussie blokes enjoy cooking but need to make it more of a priority in their lives, with men almost twice as likely as women to eat three or more takeaway meals a week.

By improving skills in home cooking, men can ‘up’ their vegetable intake by more than half a serve a day – an important finding given our latest National Nutrition Survey revealed only four per cent of men eat enough vegetables.

Not only is cooking at home healthier, it’s also more affordable and a great way to socialise.

Five tips for blokes on making

healthy home-cooked meals: Stock your pantry with smart staples: Keep a good supply of shelf-stable, budget-friendly staples like legumes (kidney beans, chickpeas), pasta, rice, noodles, canned tomatoes, pesto, curry paste, tinned fruit and vegetables.

This means you’ll always have the basis of an easy home-cooked meal.

Balance your plate: Try this simple rule for portion perfection: ½ vegetables, ¼ good-quality carbohydrates (such as potato, pasta and rice), and ¼ lean protein (like meat, chicken, fish, eggs or legumes).

Build your recipe repertoire: New to cooking? Learn to cook a few trusty basics – think stir fries,

spaghetti bolognese, and a roast.

Once you’re confident with these, the possibilities are endless.

Make smart short cuts: Cooking from scratch is great if you have the time, but it’s also fine to tap into quick and easy options, like microwave brown rice, tinned rather than dried lentils, and storebought curry sauces, especially if you’re newer to cooking.

Think outside the box with veggies: If you find your vegetables don’t last, keep some frozen varieties in your freezer. Frozen stir-fry vegetables are handy for a quick stir-fry and diced winter vegetables make a great addition to a soup or casserole.

Check out the Dietitians Association of Australia’s Smart Eating for a Healthier You recipes for inspiration.

For more on healthy eating, contact an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD). APDs are nutrition professionals with at least four years university study behind them. They provide practical, tailored advice, and can help motivate and support you to towards better health through good nutrition.

Visits to APDs may be covered through Medicare and Private Health Fund rebates. See the ‘Find an APD’ section of the Dietitians Association of Australia website at daa.asn.au to find an APD in your area.

Take a look below the belt In Australia today 9 men will die from prostate cancer.* Even more heartbreaking is that one in every six men is predicted to develop prostate cancer in their lifetime.

Prostate cancer accounts for approximately 25 percent of cancers diagnosed each year in Australian men and is the second most common cause of cancer death, after lung cancer. It is estimated that around 169,000 Australian men are living with prostate cancer today.

*Source: prostate-canceraustralia.gov.au/statistics

Symptoms to look out for Cancer of the prostate gland accounts for about 10% of cases of urinary problems in men.

In its early stages, prostate cancer may not show any symptoms. Symptoms of early prostate cancer can include: • difficulty passing urine • slow, interrupted flow of urine • frequent passing of urine, including at night • incontinence.

• after urination you feel that you could go again, even though nothing comes out.

• after urinating having a continuous dribble.

Having these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have a prostate health problem. However, if any of these urinary symptoms are bothering you, you should discuss them with your doctor.

Treatment There are a number of successful treatments available for cancer of the prostate including; monitoring, radiotherapy, removal of the gland, hormone therapy and others. It is important to discuss with your doctor the best treatment for you and what side effects you can expect from the treatment.

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21

NEWS FEATURE - MEN’S HEALTH SPECIAL

Shake It Up – Parkinson’s disease

Finding health and happiness in the shed Firstt and Fi d foremost, f t a Men’s M ’ Shed Sh d is a place for men to knock around with a group of mates.

The shed is a place for friendship, for a sense of purpose; a place to belong and contribute.

Since 1998 Men’s Sheds have sprung up from a humble grassroots movement to an international phenomenon in the name of getting blokes together—resulting in key health and wellbeing benefits for the men inside.

Whilst Men’s Sheds might seem to be all woodwork and manual crafts, the shed environment offers men from all walks of life the opportunity to participate meaningfully in their community.

“Around the world men – particularly older men – are finding themselves much healthier and happier through involvement in Men’s Sheds,” said Australian Men’s Shed Association Executive Officer, David Helmers.

Men’s Sheds make a positive contribution to the community through the prevention of social isolation, the promotion of positive health and wellbeing and the opportunity for men to participate in their local community.

“Community and social engagement are important for men at every age, but they become particularly important for men who are not working or don’t have a strong network of people around them,” said Mr Helmers.

Men’s Sheds have a strong presence in

northern New South Wales, and are deeply entrenched in many communities along the eastern seaboard and reaching into regional and rural NSW .

“Sheds are so popular - we’re currently experiencing really great growth in member numbers right across the region,” said Mr Tony Heeson, NSW Men’s Shed Association Zone Committee representative for Northern NSW and Northern Tablelands.

“My shed [Bangalow Men’s Shed] has only been open for five months, and we’ve got 70 members coming through the doors,” said Mr Heeson.

Every shed offers a variety of activities, and is characteristic of members’ interests and backgrounds.

At Casino Community Men’s Shed, the blokes enjoy learning to paint and draw at regular art classes. They’ve even turned a hand at commissioned artworks for the general public.

Murwillumbah Community Men’s Shed are often seen busy at the local markets selling hand crafted bread boards.

Men’s Sheds are also well known as regulars on the Bunnings BBQ. Next time you see your local Men’s Shed sizzling up a storm, head over for a snag and a chat about their shed.

Like the Australian Men’s Shed Association on Facebook to keep up with the latest in shed world, or find your local shed at mensshed.org.

Shake It Up Australia Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation established in 2011

by Clyde Campbell to promote and fund Parkinson’s disease research in Australia.

Clyde grew up in the northern rivers district of NSW, is a father of three and business owner who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2009 at the age of 44.

Following his diagnosis, Clyde set out to learn as much as he could about Parkinson’s to determine what he could do in a practical sense to assist. His search led him to the Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) for Parkinson’s Research in the United States and the remarkable work they do to fund medical research around the world targeted at finding better treatments on the path to finding a cure for Parkinson’s.

The approach MJFF takes to assessing, funding and project managing world’s best research

all over the globe eliminates redundancy, ensures efficiency and unites the global community in the quest to find a cure. Clyde realised that funding Parkinson’s research in partnership with MJFF was the best thing that he could do to help himself, his family and over 80,000 Australians living with the disease. With that clear in his mind Clyde founded Shake It Up Australia Foundation to give other Australians the opportunity to join his quest.

100% of all funds received goes to research targeted at finding better treatments and ultimately a cure for Parkinson’s disease. This has been made possible by the Founding Directors’ commitment to fund all administration costs of the foundation.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease visit the Shake It Up website for information on the latest research and treatments - www. shakeitup.org.au

Parkinson’s Statistics

• Parkinson’s is the second most common neurological disease in Australia after dementia.

• The disease affects an estimated 10 million individuals worldwide – 80,000 in Australia.

• 32 Aussies are diagnosed with the disease every day.

• 20% of sufferers are under 50 years old and 10% are diagnosed before the age of 40.

• Parkinson’s is more prevalent than prostate, bowel and many other forms of cancer and the total number of Parkinson’s sufferers is 4 times the number of people suffering with MS.

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July 2017 - Revolution

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North Coast Seniors

NEWS SPECIAL FEATURE - MEN’S HEALTH

It’s never too late to start being active

Join In

Walking program is designed to be fun, social and low impact.

Heart Foundation Walking is Australia’s only truly national network of walking groups which are free to participants.

There are walking groups to suit all levels of fitness and lifestyles - dog walking groups, people who are just getting active after years on the couch and slow or fast paced walkers. The Federal Government has also made a $10 million commitment to the program to grow it exponentially over the coming years.

“Walkers tell us they join Heart Foundation Walking Groups for health reasons but stay for social reasons,” Ms Doyle said.

Exercise can help to: reduce your chances of getting heart disease. For those who already have heart disease, exercise reduces the chances of dying from it.

The main effect from ageing on the heart is the walls of your arteries stiffen. Arterial stiffening can have the effect of increasing your blood pressure

which can increase your risk of having a heart event.

In Australia, 2.29 million or close to 40 per cent of Australians over the age of 50 years have blood pressure between 120/80 to 140/90. An additional 2.05 million or 35 per cent of Australians over the age 50 years have measure high blood pressure over 140/90.

“So, make every year of your life count by getting active today and joining a Heart Foundation Walking group today, Ms Doyle said.

To find out more about Heart Foundation Walking visit www. heartfoundation.org.au or call 1300 36 27 87.

This is a small list of some of the walking groups in our area.

For more information on walking groups in your town visit www.heartfoundation.org.au or call 1300 36 27 87.

YAMBA MORNING WALK GROUP Meeting Point: Ford Park Ferry Terminal Walk Organiser: Ronald Contact: 02 6646 2096 Duration: 45-60 min Walk Times: Monday 07:30, Friday 07:30 ILUKA WALKERS GROUP Meeting Point: Bayside Exercise Equipment Walk Organiser: Colin Contact: 0416 814 911 Duration: 45-60 min Walk Times: Monday 07:30, Wednesday 07:30, Friday 07:30 BALLINA VILLAGE PEOPLE WALKING GROUP Meeting Point: Alternates each week Walk Organiser: Kay Contact: 0400 338 991 Duration: 45-60 min Walk Times: Thursday 08:00 TWEED HEADS WALKING GROUP Meeting Point: Tweed Hospital Walk Organiser: Graham Contact: 07 5523 2141 Duration: 45-60 min Walk Times: Saturday 08:00 LENNOX HEAD WALKERS Meeting Point: Ross Park (opposite Post Office) Walk Organiser: Liz Contact: 0411 544 004 Duration: 60 min Walk Times: Friday 06:30

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North Coast Seniors

|LUKE ARUNDEL

Men between the ages of 45 and 74 years of age utilised the least level of optometric services.

Men are neglecting the health of their eyes to the detriment of their overall wellbeing.

Medicare statistics reveal that of the 8.67 million optometric services provided in 2016, women received around 57.6% of those services and men, 42.4%.

Men between the ages of 45 and 74 years of age utilised the least level of optometric services (around 1.84 million services) compared to those provided to women in the same age (around 2.40 million).

Vision loss prevents healthy and independent ageing. When you consider 75% of vision loss is preventable or treatable, having regular eye examinations with an optometrist is critical to having good vision for life.

According to a report commissioned by Vision 2020 Australia in 2009, vision loss puts you at three times the risk of developing depression. If not properly managed, it can also negatively impact your social connectedness and sense of independence, particularly if the loss of a driving license also occurs.

Men neglecting eye safety Another eye health area in which men need to improve is eye safety.

In 2016, men accounted for 83% of the 11,078 of cases registered on the Medicare database in which optometrists removed a foreign body embedded in the eye.

While more men than women may require this type of treatment due to gender differences across certain occupations (in particular trades and labouring) and home duties such as maintenance, renovating and gardening, it does signal that Australians also need to be taking eye safety more seriously.

Optometry Australia highly recommends that you wear Australian standard safety glasses if you are going to be working in an environment, or with equipment, that generates debris such as wood cutting, carpentry, grinding, hammering, mowing or pruning. Safety glasses are available in clear, sunglass and prescription options for those who need to wear glasses for clear distance or near vision.

Time to have the conversation Optometry Australia urges you to start conversations about physical and mental health with the men in your life. Don’t overlook eye health as an important factor to overall health and wellbeing.

Booking an eye examination, or encouraging the men in your life to do so, is an easy way to combat preventable vision loss that can affect men’s overall health and wellbeing.

Luke Arundel, Resident Optometrist, Optometry Australia

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Whether you’re 9 or 90, abundant evidence shows exercise can enhance your health and well-being so why not join a Heart Foundation Walking group today?

“Hundreds of studies demonstrate that exercise helps you feel better and live longer, however millions of Australians simply aren’t moving enough to meet the minimum threshold for good health,” Ms Kerry Doyle, Heart Foundation NSW Chief Executive said.

“People of all ages can improve their health and wellbeing by starting some moderate-intensity activity. The benefits start to occur as soon as you take up physical activitY. “The benefits of exercise may sound too good to be true, but decades of solid science confirm that exercise improves health and can extend your life.

Adding as little as half an hour of moderately intense physical activity to your day can help you avoid a host of serious ailments, including heart disease.”

Ms Doyle said.

The Heart Foundation’s

Men neglecting eye health at the expense of their overall wellbeing

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Revolution - July 2017

23

HEALTH

Customer trends

SmartGlove – Suitable for Carpal Tunnel RRP $66.35

at the

Aged Care Store Each month I dedicate sometime to review what types of products have sold well over the past month. What surprises me the most is that our customers are buying a lot of braces and supports and this is fantastic news.

So why does this news excite me? This trend in our customers buying behaviour indicates that many of our seniors are actually trying to remain active or help to aid recovery after an injury.

If you have read our previous articles you might remember that our primary aim at the Aged Care Store is to make “simple tasks easy again” but our secondary focus is about “maintaining a healthy and happy lifestyle”. Keeping active and healthy is essential as we get older. We have a range exercise and therapy products that can be used to keep fit and to aid recovery from an injury.

If your life has become somewhat sedentary why not try to and add some extra exercises to your day. Our Pedal Exerciser allows you to ride all day in the comfort of your own home, whilst increasing circulation and muscle strength. In addition our Gell Balls are a perfect resistance training tool, as they help to strengthen hands, finger and forearms.

Our braces and supports can also support your body whilst trying to remain active.

For our customers suffering with arthritis we stock a range of suitable supports, including the IMAK Arthritis Gloves and IMAK Arthritis Socks. If you are suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome then our IMAK Smart Glove will provide relief with its massaging ergo beads and supportive splint. Played a little too much tennis or golf lately? Our elbow supports will provide relief for your Tennis Elbow or Golfer’s Elbow.

Visit us at www.agedcarestore.com.au to see how you can add some more exercise to your day.

Alissa Burger, Aged Care Store

Wrist Thumb Support – De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Suffering from De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis? Then our Wrist/ Thumb Support will help with the inflammation. Suitable for rheumatics, it also provides thermal wrist support for tenosynovitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and general wrist support.

RRP $39.60

Join In Coffs Harbour Vision Impaired Group First Thursday of the month at 10.00am Contact Simone Haas on 02 6692 4470

The patented Imak Smart Glove helps prevent and relieve wrist pain associated with Tendonitis, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome CTS, and arthritis by encouraging proper hand and wrist position.

Always remember to have a medical practitioner diagnose your condition before using any brace.

Golfer Elbow Support – Universal Size RRP $47.05 Our Golfers Elbow Support is also suitable for Tennis Elbow.

Made from Neoprene that keeps the joint warm, the inner layer has a ventilated laminated fabric for comfortable support.

Pedal Exerciser A Portable Budget Workout For Seniors The Metron Budget Pedal Exerciser is an affordable pedal machine. Used for both upper and lower body.

The Pedal Powered Exerciser improves circulation, muscle strength and also range of motion.

RRP $92.58

Power Web Combo RRP $105.55 The Power Web Combo is a perfect piece of equipment for undertaking hand and also wrist exercises.

It is designed to improve strength, coordination, and flexibility of forearms, fingers, wrists and also the hands. Extension, flexion, supination and opposition exercises can be completed with the Cando Hand Exercise Web. All products available from the Aged Care Store. Prices were correct at time of printing.

The Aged Care Store specialises in providing daily living aids to help you or your loved one stay independent for longer.

Casino Vision Impaired Local Client Support Group First Monday of the month at 10.00am Contact Denise Green on 0448 014 682 Lismore Blind & Vision Impaired Support Group First Tuesday of the month at 10.00am Contact Cathy Jennings 02 6622 1676 Ballina Low Vision Support Group Fourth Monday of the month at 10.00am Contact Merv Mote 0407 693 987 Murwillumbah Blind & Vision Impaired Support Group (NSW Far North Coast) Inc First Wednesday of the month at 11.00am Contact Leone Baker 07 5599 5669 For further information and support please contact Vision Australia local offices: Coffs Harbour 126 West High St, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Ph: 02 6659 9200 Lismore Shop 22/62 Wyrallah Rd, Lismore NSW 2480 Ph: 02 6623 4800 National Call Centre 1300 84 74 66 Monday – Friday 8.30am – 5.00pm

Laughter is the best medicine In the Personal Column I am into solitude, long walks, sunrises, the ocean, yoga and meditation.

If you are the silent type, let’s get together, take our hearing aids out and enjoy quiet times.

Recent widow who has just buried fourth husband and am looking for someone to round out a six-unit plot.

Dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath not a problem.

Braces & Supports

Daily Living Aids

Exercise & Therapy

Mobility

Orthotics & FootCare

Patient Care

Live freely without worry with dependable aged care products! www.agedcarestore.com.au

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July 2017 - Revolution

North Coast Seniors

HEALTH CLARENCE CARE + SUPPORT

Introducing TAVR

New funding for the Far North Coast Hello ll to everyone I am happy to say that Clarence Care + Support has been successful in attaining 10 new packages for people over 65 years or aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over the age of 50 years.

These are called Short Term Restorative Care Packages.

The main aim of these packages is to assist people living at home over an 8-week program to prevent or slow down the difficulties older people are having completing everyday tasks. It aims to improve wellbeing and independence and delay or reverse the need to go into long term care.

To be eligible you will need to have an Aged Care Assessment completed. This can be organised through contacting My Aged Care on 1800 200 422.

Remember there are a range of servic-

ill bl depending d di on your level l l off es available need. They start at the basic level such as house cleaning or yard maintenance and can include home modifications to make your home safer and easier to get around. I encourage people to look at getting some support early as it is known that this will maintain you at home for longer. Do not wait until you have a health crisis such as a fall and injure yourself.

You do not need to be referred by your GP or health professional for aged care services. My Aged Care will send out an assessor if required.

If you need a guest speaker for your group please give us a call on 6645 0400 and we can come along and explain about the aged care services available.

Kerry Little Manager, Care and Support

The alternative to open heart surgery which is the first minimally invasive procedure to treat severe Aortic Stenosis.

This new procedure is called Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) and does not involve opening the chest to operate on the defective valve. Instead, the procedure is normally performed via the groin through the femoral artery.

TAVR is less invasive than open heart surgery and therefore leads to a much shorter stay in hospital and allows for a much shorter recuperation period. Relief of the narrowed aortic valve by TAVR leads to an improvement in symptoms and also prolongs life compared with medical treatment alone.

This new life-saving procedure is now available at John Flynn Private Hospital and patients and their relatives can request their GPs and Cardiologists to have an assessment by the TAVR Team to see if they would be suitable to undergo this new procedure.

For more information please contact your GP or the Cardiac Centre at John Flynn Private Hospital on (07) 5598 0322.

Ph: (02) 6645 0400 2IÀFHV LQ Maclean & Grafton Working with the communities of the Far North Coast

• Home Care Package Provider • Registered NDIS Provider • Community and In Home Support • Living Skills • Social Support • Private Services CVI©SEN0717

• Domestic Assistance • Lawn Services • Meals on Wheels

North Coast Seniors

Revolution - July 2017

25

HEALTH

ARE YOU HAVING DIFFICULTY SLEEPING?

It could save your life.

Are you part of the BreastScreen Program?

BreastScreen NSW wants all women to know the facts about breast cancer - 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer and 9 out of 10 women who have a breast cancer do not have a family history of breast cancer.

The good news is that early detection of breast cancer improves survival.

Mammograms (breast x-rays) are the best way to find a breast cancer before it can be seen or felt by a woman or her doctor.

BreastScreen NSW North Coast offers free mammograms to any women aged over 40 years and strongly urges women over 50 to get two yearly mammograms to increase the likelihood of detecting a cancer when it is small. Early detection of a breast cancer often means a woman is less likely to need a mastectomy.

So regular mammograms really are crucial yet only half of eligible women in NSW are getting regularly screened.

BreastScreen appointments are free and a doctor’s referral is not required. On the North Coast there are BreastScreen clinics in Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Lismore and Tweed Heads and the mobile BreastScreen bus visits numerous towns.

All BreastScreen mammograms are taken by female staff and reviewed by two doctors.

Are you one of the 50% in NSW who is not on the BreastScreen program?

If so, please call 132050 to make an appointment for a free mammogram.

Remember it could be a call that saves your life.

The most common sleep disorder is sleep apnea. Apnea means the absence of breath.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (often just called Sleep Apnea, or sometimes OSA) occurs when the airway collapses during sleep and the person stops breathing. The person with sleep apnea may have hundreds of these episodes throughout the night, disrupting their sleep and starving the body of vital oxygen.

SYMPTOMS People with obstructive sleep apnea usually snore loudly and have restless sleep leaving them very tired during the day. Other symptoms may include depression, irritability, personality changes, impotence, memory impairment and increased frequency of urination at night.

HEALTH PROBLEMS There is a clear link between sleep apnea and

cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, stroke and heart disease and damage to small blood vessels can result in impotence. Diabetes and obesity have also been linked to sleep apnea.

WHO GETS SLEEP APNEA? Sleep apnea can occur at any age. It is often associated with being overweight. In people not overweight, they may have a narrow airway or a facial structure which leads to narrowing HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED? Sleep apnea is diagnosed from the results of an overnight sleep study.

The patient is wired up and attached to a device that measures sleep, breathing rates and oxygen levels.

HOW IS IT TREATED? The most effective treatment for OSA is

called continuous positive airway pressure or CPAP. This consists of a pump that blows air through a mask at a high enough pressure to keep the airway open.

WHAT TO AVOID? There are things that can make sleep apnea worse. Alcohol and sleeping tablets may worsen apnea. Other things that disrupt sleep such as caffeine or late night eating should also be avoided.

If you are concerned about sleep apnea, you should consult your doctor. SDA has branches throughout the country and holds information sessions from time to time on sleep apnea and other topics.

For more information on sleep disorders or to download free fact sheets, visit the SDA website at www.sleepoz. org.au or contact your State SDA office.

Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women in NSW. Finding breast cancer early saves lives.

Call 13 20 50 to book your free screening mammogram

For women aged 50 to 74 years breastscreen.nsw.gov.au

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North Coast Seniors

HEALTH

How does dementia affect long-term memory?

Unlike short-term memories from the preceding day or two, long-term memories are generally long-lasting, and cover anything from people’s earliest memories as children, through to their decades of life experience.

Whilst early stages of dementia account for short-term memory loss, over time, a person with dementia will experience longterm memory loss too. The three main types of long-term memories include procedural memories, episodic memories and semantic memories.

Eventually a person with dementia will experience difficulties with their long-term memory. So, for example, they could experience difficulties with finding the right words to use as they speak, or their memories of family members or particular events may diminish or disappear altogether.

Significant memory loss can also make procedural memories fade, which is why people with dementia often find it difficult to do the tasks that they used to be able to do automatically. This can affect a person’s ability to complete Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) – in other words, common day-to-day tasks, such as brushing their teeth, showering or getting dressed.

Memory loss can also affect judgement, so a person with dementia may not make the connection with it being cold outdoors and need-

ing to wear long trousers or a coat.

Helpful ways to assist those with long-term memory loss If a loved one is experiencing long-term memory loss, here’s 7 things you can do to help them: Introduce yourself by name each time you see them, to help put them at ease.

Be patient, give them time and where necessary, prompts, to help them remember people, activities or events.

Gently offer clear, step-by-step directions to help them complete ADLs like brushing their teeth or taking a bath.

Maintain a routine so that they perform their ADLs at the same time each day – and use this routine to give their day purpose with small things to accomplish.

Put up photographs of their family and friends where they live – and include captions, explaining who they are and where the photo was taken.

Show them video footage of any moments in their life that have been recorded.

Support them positively to lead full and happy lives, rather that reminding them regularly about their memory loss.

If you’d like support or further information about dementia, please take a look at Alzheimer’s Queensland’s fact sheets and resources on www.alzheimersonline.org or call our 24-hour Advice Line on 1800 639 331.

LOVING CARE IN A HOMELIKE SETTING

Residents & Visitors Kitchen

Lifestyle Program

Set only 3 minutes walking distance to the Byron Town Centre and 5 minutes to the beach, Byron Aged Care is the perfect home for older Australians looking to continue enjoying a natural and tranquil life while receiving the support and care they need.

Library with Fireplace

Media Room

Multiple Courtyards

Intimate Dining

Individual Ensuite Rooms

Spacious Living

Outdoor Living

Specialised Dementia Care

Byron Aged Care - 1 Butler Street, Byron Bay NSW 2481 P: 02 6685 6728 www.byronagedcare.com.au North Coast Seniors

Revolution - July 2017

27

HEALTH

Join In Tweed Valley Cake Decorators Contact: Sharyn Hagen Ph: 07 5590 4003 or Francis 02 6672 4061 Very Gentle Exercise Class Tweed Community Health Centre, Tweed Heads Hospital Mondays 8.30am.

Contact: Deb 0414 644 064 Brunswick Valley Scrabble Club Tuesday 1pm-4pm Brunswick Heads Bowling Club Cost: $4 (includes tea & coffee) Ph: Barbara Hancock 6685 0409 Grafton U3A Inc Rooms 8/9 Dougherty House 46 Prince St, Grafton Ph: 6642-4615 Email: info@grafton.u3anet.org.au www.grafton.u3anet.org.au Coffs Seniors Computer Club Meets Monday mornings (except public holidays) at the Cavanbah Centre; near cnr of Harbour Drive & Earl St; Coffs Harbour.

Mondays: 8.30 coffee; 9.00am - 11:30am Lessons Ph: 0407 581 898 Email: cscompclub@gmail.com

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Finally - a Company dedicated to helping making a great nights’ sleep affordable.

CPAP Sales provides a convenient on-line shopping experience for local and national sleep apnea sufferers wanting to save time and a lot of money on an extensive range of CPAP machines, masks, batteries and accessories.

Sleep apnea affects sufferers in many ways; not only can it harm sleep quality, but it can also damage health, relationships and lifestyle. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) and Auto (APAP) machines offer proven relief from the harmful symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), by allowing sufferers to achieve a deep, restful and satisfying sleep.

CPAP Sales stocks a range of new, ex-demo and used machines, available

with or without humidifiers plus a range of compact travel machine packages ideal for camping and caravanning adventures. Extra flexibility is offered on purchases with optional additional warranties available, plus additional discounts for pension card holders and readers of this publication. Existing customers are also rewarded for successful sales referrals to friends and family.

The CPAP Sales website provides an excellent resource for answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) including advice on travelling with CPAP. It also provides links to a selection of Sleep Disorders Australia (SDA) fact sheets and the popular SDA info

booklet that is a goldmine of useful information for sleep apnea sufferers and their families.

A new web blog was recently added to the site to provide tips, advice and a question and answer section to help those starting out on their journey for a better night’s sleep.

CPAP Sales has over 100 testimonials from satisfied customers around the country, proving that good old fashioned “value for money” and “excellent customer service” have not been forgotten.

So if you need help or advice, or wish to purchase CPAP equipment, please do not hesitate to contact the friendly team at CPAP Sales on 1300 042 727.

North Coast Seniors

HEALTH

Stay in your own home for longer Clarence Valley Home Modification and Maintenance Service Inc. (CVHMMS) is a construction based, community organisation which has operated for over 25 years. Services are tailored for people who are frail aged, with a disability, or their carers, who wish to remain living safely and independently in their own home.

CVHMMS is committed to providing clients with the highest standards of care and workmanship.

The organisation operates under and meets quality requirements of the Disability and Home Care Common Standards and strictly adheres to Australian building standards.

CVHMMS is the only building service verified and registered as a provider for the NDIS in the Clarence.

All work is performed by compassionate and licensed tradespeople.

Regularly provided modifications include rails, chair raisers, step wedges, anti-slip treatment to wet areas, stair chairs, ramps and easy

access bathroom modifications.

Home maintenance services include repair of a leaking roof, fixing leaking taps and toilets, renewing rotting steps, concrete paths and attending to other hazards around the home.

To access a CVHMMS service, the process is as follows. For clients aged 65 years and over (or 50+ for ATSI clients), either visit www. myagedcare.gov.au or phone: 1800 200 422. For younger clients, please phone the Occupational Therapy department: Grafton on 6641 8738 or Maclean: 6640 0123, or CVHMMS: 6643 1831 to arrange a free assessment.

CVHMMS is located at Unit 3/137 Prince Street, Grafton (frontage on Bacon Street), where some modification examples are on display Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm.

Should you have any hazards which are you are concerned about around the home, please contact CVHMMS. If you eliminate the risks, you may eliminate the consequences.

THE FLU, IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT YOU. The flu season is here and older Australians are most at risk. It is estimated that each year the flu causes 13,500 hospitalisations and more than 3,000 deaths among Australians over 50 years of age.

Our best defence against the flu is to vaccinate.

And for those aged 65 and older, the flu vaccination is free.

The influenza virus is especially dangerous for elderly people, particularly if they have underlying medical conditions, or are susceptible to pneumonia.

Flu symptoms include

tiredness, high fever, chills, headache, coughing, sneezing, runny noses, poor appetite, and muscle aches. Older people with the flu can experience complications and end up in hospital.

This winter, North Coast Primary Health Network and the Northern NSW Local Health District are working together to educate the community about how to avoid getting the flu and possibly ending up in hospital.

North Coast GP and NCPHN Clinical Advisor Dr Dan Ewald said it was important to get the flu

shot every year as the flu strains which affect the community are changing all the time.

“By having a flu shot each year, you decrease the chances of getting influenza and spreading the virus to others. The flu poses major risks to many people, especially older folks. The influenza virus infection can potentially develop into pneumonia or other serious complications such as multi-organ failure leading to death,” he said.

Talk to your GP or pharmacist today about getting the flu shot this winter. The flu, it’s not just about you.

s,DD^ ŝƐ Ă ŚŽŵĞ ĂŶĚ ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚLJ ĐĂƌĞ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĂƐƐŝƐƟŶŐ ƚŚĞ ĨƌĂŝů ĂŐĞĚ͕ ƉĞŽƉůĞ ǁŝƚŚ Ă ĚŝƐĂďŝůŝƚLJ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞŝƌ ĐĂƌĞƌƐ ƚŽ ƌĞŵĂŝŶ ůŝǀŝŶŐ ƐĂĨĞůLJ ŝŶ ƚŚĞŝƌ ŽǁŶ ŚŽŵĞƐ͘

,ŽŵĞ DĂŝŶƚĞŶĂŶĐĞ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ ƌĂŶŐĞ ĨƌŽŵ ĮdžŝŶŐ LJŽƵƌ ǁĂƐŚŝŶŐ ŵĂĐŚŝŶĞ ƚŽ ƌĞƉĂŝƌŝŶŐ Ă ůĞĂŬ ŝŶ LJŽƵƌ ƌŽŽĨ͘

,ŽŵĞ DŽĚŝĮĐĂƟŽŶƐ ĐĂŶ ƌĂŶŐĞ ĨƌŽŵ ƚŚĞ ŝŶƐƚĂůůĂƟŽŶ ŽĨ Ă ƐŵĂůů ŐƌĂď ƌĂŝů ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƐŚŽǁĞƌ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ŝŶƐƚĂůůĂƟŽŶ ŽĨ Ă ůŝŌ͘

E^t ĞƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚ ŽĨ &Ăŝƌ dƌĂĚŝŶŐ >ŝĐĞŶƐĞ EŽ͘ ϭϬϰϯϰϰ ͘

Live safely and independently in your own home!

FOR ALL ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE IN GRAFTON, LOCATED AT 3/137 PRINCE STREET, OR TELEPHONE ON 6643 1831.

North Coast Seniors

Revolution - July 2017

29

OUR COMMUNITY

“Sorry, what did you say?”

Do you find yourself saying this many times a day?

Even with her hearing aid turned on, retiree Pam Moreland struggled to hear her family and friends and often felt isolated. Today, she is discovering how her newly fitted cochlear implant is changing her life for the better.

This winter, 65-year-old Pam Moreland is doing two things she thought impossible just over a year ago: keeping up in conversations with her friends and family and planning to return to work as a seamstress.

Pam first noticed her hearing begin to deteriorate in her mid-30s, shortly before moving to the picturesque suburb of Meerschaum Vale just southwest of Ballina with husband Colin to be close to her retired parents.

Over the past 30 years, Pam struggled to hear every day sounds and especially missed being able to keep up with the flow of conversation; “I was constantly asking people to repeat themselves and trying to lip read. It was hard, I used to cry when I couldn’t hear people – it was very isolating,” recalls Pam. With one in six Australian’s affected by hearing loss and 58% of people between the ages of 61 and 70 suffering hearing loss*, Pam’s experience isn’t unique. And with our ageing population, these statistics are predicted to increase to one in four by 2050*.

To improve her hearing, Pam had two stapedectomies, a surgical procedure of the middle ear, which unfortunately failed. She also tried hearing aids and found they helped at first but they were not effective. Last year, Pam made the decision to try one more time to improve her hearing and contacted the SCIC Cochlear Implant Program, an RIDBC service, in Port Macquarie. Following a thorough assessment, Pam was told that a cochlear implant could improve her hearing.

The cochlear implant was invented

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July 2017 - Revolution

by an Australian, Professor Graeme Clark. His revolutionary technology, or ‘bionic ear’ as he called it, has changed the lives of over 450,000 people worldwide. Unlike hearing aids which make sounds louder, cochlear implants do the work of the damaged parts of the inner ear (cochlea) to provide sound signals to the brain.

While Pam’s cochlear implant surgery was one of the first of its type at Port Macquarie Base Hospital, the most exciting moment for her was when her implant was switched on as she quickly noticed a positive change in her hearing. Pam couldn’t wait to commence her auditory training and join the Cochlear Implant Club and Advisory Association group, also known by its acronym CICADA to receive ongoing support from other implant recipients and the SCIC Cochlear Implant Program.

“I have a future ahead of me now; it will be wonderful to hear properly again,” says Pam. To learn more about Cochlear hearing solutions visit www.cochlear. com/au. To get expert help please contact SCIC Cochlear Implant Program at ridbc.org.au/scic or call 1300 658 981.

Please seek advice from your medical practitioner or health professional about treatments for hearing loss. They will be able to advise on a suitable solution for the hearing loss condition. All products should be used only as directed by your medical practitioner or health professional. *Source: Access Economics Listen Hear! The economic impact and cost of hearing loss in Australia, February 2006

The Home Safety Checklist to help prevent falls As we age, unfortunately, the chance of falling increases. For many older people and their families, worrying about falls can be very stressful and unsettling.

Not only can falls bring physical injury and the need for rehabilitation, they can result in loss of confidence for older people, holding them back from doing the things they love.

The good news is there are a number of proactive falls prevention steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of falls, including things you can do at home, so that you and your loved ones can get on with doing the things that matter most.

Say goodbye to trip hazards Eliminate trip hazards around the home such as uneven surfaces, rugs that are loose, curled at the edges or frayed, cords running along the floor, poor lighting, clutter and slippery floors.

Keep it in reach Encourage your older relatives or friends to keep things within reach – small changes such as using a cordless phone placed by their side and placing commonly used items within reach can make a difference.

Stay healthy and active with fall prevention exercises Provide support and encourage your loved one to keep moving and engage in exercise to improve muscle strength and balance.

Remember that good hydration and nutrition are also important.

Make sure clothing and shoes fit Ensuring that your family member or friend has shoes and clothing that fits well is a foundation to

reducing the risk of falls.

Shoes should be non-slip, fit firmly and be the correct size, and not cause any pain. Clothing should be comfortable, the right length and fit well.

Check it out Visit your GP regularly and discuss any illnesses or health concerns such as pain, dizziness, poor balance, vision problems or discomfort in walking. Chat about what treatment and support is available.

Don’t be shy when it comes to mobility aids Mobility aids such as a walker, walking stick and handrails can help reduce the risk of falls around the home. Talk to a GP or Physiotherapist about what’s available and right for you.

Medication - get it right Make sure your family member has the correct dosage of medication and ensure that their medication list is regularly reviewed by their GP. Be aware of the effects of certain medications, such as strong pain relief or sedatives, as these can increase the risk of falls. Make sure that these effects are ways to minimise the risk of falls is discussed with their GP. This article was brought to you

by YourLife, an aged care blog

by The Whiddon Group providing information, practical suggestions and inspiring stories about healthy ageing and aged care. Visit at www.whiddon.com.ay/yourlife

North Coast Seniors

OUR COMMUNITY

Customised care options THE sounds of laughter and a vacuum cleaner in full swing break the silence in Allan Hay’s house on a Wednesday morning.

The 90-year-old looks forward to his weekly visit from his UPA carer John O’Neil, who will mop the floors, vacuum

the carpets, put on washing and do all the general housekeeping for him.

“I look forward to John coming once a week for two hours,” he said.

“He is fantastic. He is very friendly and pleasant to talk to and he does a bloody good

job.”

Mr Hay’s wife died 20 years ago and although he had been looking after himself all that time, he knew he needed help as he was getting older.

“I just wasn’t able to do things that I was doing before.” he said.

Thanks to a visit by a guest speaker to his Parkinson’s Support Group, from UPA, Mr Hay approached her after the meeting and they had a long talk.

“She offered help straight away and it started from there,” he said.

It was the beginning of a lovely connection between Mr Hay and Mr O’Neil.

“He’s one of my favourites,” Mr O’Neil said.

“We share a joke and I enjoy the weekly conversations.”

This year, Government changes in the Industry have opened up the Home Care sector to healthy competition – giving people choice regarding which Home Care Provider they use.

Because of this, there are a lot of new faces popping up, so it’s really important that people understand the provider they are getting involved with, their history, and their values. UPA have been in Care for over 75 years and because they are a not-for-profit, they

place the community at the heart of everything they do.

UPA are among the only providers on the North Coast to offer Registered Nurses for at-home Clinical Care.

They also operate several quality Residential Lodges & Villages on the North Coast, understanding that care needs will change as your life changes. With UPA you have the freedom to take advantage of not only in-home care, but if and when you need it, the option to transition to a new residence with the same caring support and guidance that UPA provides.

Mr Hay said UPA has now become an important part of his life.

“Now that I’ve had them I couldn’t do without them,” he said.

Mr Hay said if he knew friends were looking to use UPA services he would encourage them strongly.

“By all means, use them because they do such a wonderful job,” he said.

Caring Connections ..with UPA North Coast HOME CARE SERVICES | AGED CARE SERVICES No matter what your needs are as you get older and wiser, UPA have you covered in your current residence, or a warm and wonderful new home.

From cleaning, help with shopping, companionship and transport, to gardening and home maintenance...

Our caring, qualified staff will assist with all your clinical and personal care needs. UPA can offer you helpful Home Care as well as access to their fully accredited Residential Care properties.

Speak to a UPA Coordinator today to discuss custom care options available to you.

02 6628 5559 info@northcoast.upa.org.au

upa.org.au North Coast Seniors

Revolution - July 2017

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FEATURE

Join In Coffs Harbour Writers Group Meeting Venues: 1st Wednesday of the month, Cex Club, Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour Time: 10:30am to 12:30 (if attending a workshop 1:30 to 3:30pm) Social Coffee Mornings: 3rd Thursday of the month, members homes or at nominated venues Time: 10:00am to 12:00 noon Members Fees: $20 per Annum plus $2 monthly meeting fee Workshop/ Seminar Fees: $7.50 / Members; $7.50 / Non Members $15.00 Contact Details: Social / Publicity Officer, Janice: ph 66528518; Website: www. cofffsharbourwriters.com Coffs Harbour Chess Club c/- Coffs Harbour Catholic Recreation and Sports Club, 59 High Street COFFS HARBOUR Phone: 6656 1404 Grafton Probus Club Inc Every 3rd Thursday at 10am South Grafton Services Club Men and women meet for monthly social activities.

Ph: Secretary 66425160 for further information.

Quota International of Lower Clarence Service and fund raising for the community. Meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday of the month in the Board Room at Yamba Bowling Club, Wooli St, Yamba Ph: 6645 1270 Bananacoast Radio Control Flyers Club - 6652 3570 Model Flying Field Pacific Highway, Moonee Rotary Club of Maclean Inc. Thursday 6:30pm Maclean Bowling Club 1A McLachlan St, Maclean Ph: 6645 4732 Darts Club Mullumbimby Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club Wednesday Nights 7pm Beginners Welcome Contact: Diane 02 6680 2119 Rick 02 6680 1942 Tai Chi Murwillumbah Contact: Vic 0418 495 094

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Land lease liv The Land Lease Living Industry Association (LLLIA) NSW has launched a new website about fantastic housing options for over 50’s looking for an active community lifestyle.

“There is growing demand for housing options that are affordable and fit with the community and lifestyle needs of the over 50’s. The website will be a great resource for anyone wanting to find out about land lease living where the homeowner leases land.” LLIA CEO, Lyndel Gray said.

“They offer a flexible, affordable and secure lifestyle where home owners rent the land in a community. It’s no surprise this is a popular lifestyle choice for active retirees.

“To date there has been limited awareness of the many advantages of land lease living, and we are excited to be providing a really inspirational and accessible way for people to explore the lifestyle options land lease communities offer.”

“Many people are looking to find a new lifestyle option once the kids have left home or when they retire, and land lease communities offer a fantastic opportunity to not only downsize from a large family home, but to also own a new home built to your specifications.

“There are no stamp duty, rates or strata fees. All you pay is a weekly site fee that goes towards the maintenance of the community and its facilities. You can use the rest of your money for other things.

Currently there are around 34,000 residents living in more than 480 land lease living communities across NSW. “The land lease living lifestyle offers a style of living for your interests and needs with the support of a safe and friendly community. There are some spectacularly beautiful locations across NSW to choose from.”

Highlights of www.landleaseliving.com include: • Lists of land lease communities throughout NSW • Comparison charts for retirement living options • Easy to understand information including questions and answers, about your rights and responsibilities to help you decide • How and where to buy manufactured homes • Testimonials from those who have moved into a land lease community “When moving into a land lease living community you can downsize and put aside a nest egg. All this while owning your own home in a location you have chosen. With 95% of land lease communities in rural and regional NSW, you can make that tree or sea-change you’ve always wanted.

“It also offers affordable housing choices because with manufactured housing you create a style to suit you, from a cosy cottage to hi-tech home, single or multi-storey and as many rooms as you want.

“Part of the success of residential land lease communities is the quality and strict manufacturing standards of the homes.

Homes are mainly produced in a factory, ensuring exacting standards and a quick production time.

“These communities meet the needs of active over 50’s. They provide independence while bringing together people who want to share the benefits of companionship, great facilities and the group activities on offer. It's a great lifestyle choice.”

The Land Lease Living Industry Association is the peak industry body in NSW and represents the interests of members operating residential land lease communities and the manufacturers of homes used in land lease communities.

A peaceful and tranquil lifestyle

Colonial Holiday Park & Leisure Village is situated in the coastal town of Harrington, approximately 5kms west of the mouth of the mighty Manning River and the south side of Crowdy Head National Park, with all its walking tracks, bird life and panoramic views of the coast stretching north to Port Macquarie and south to Foster.

The Leisure Village is an “over 55s” lifestyle environment surrounded by an abundance of trees, birdlife, open spaces, peace, and tranquillity.

Containing 57 long term permanent sites, the Leisure Village has approximately 80 permanent residents.

The residents are a friendly bunch of people from a wide range of backgrounds. The Leisure Village is pet-friendly and offers security for you and your personal possessions. Entry is via security card boom gate and all visitors must sign in at the office on arrival.

Harrington Waters Community Village, is only 2kms from the Leisure Village and features an IGA supermarket, hair and beauty salon, newsagency, realty agency, liquor shop, café and bakery, pharmacy, medical centre, florist and a community church.

A large function room is available for hire at the Community Village, or grab a good book at the nearby Harrington Library.

Within that same location is the Harrington Waters Golf Club together with Harrigan’s Irish Tavern, where a cold ale, glass of wine and good food can be enjoyed overlooking the Manning River. As well as the opportunity to play a round of golf.

5kms down the road is the township of Harrington, where you can enjoy yourself both day and night.

Play a game of bowls at Club Harrington, enjoy a bite to eat at the Harrington Hotel or take a stroll on the Harrington break wall. Courtesy vans offer a pick-up and drop-off service from the Leisure Village to Club Harrington, Harrington Hotel, and Harrigan’s Irish Tavern.

North Coast Seniors

FEATURE

ing

NEW WEBSITE HIGHLIGHTS EXCITING LAND LEASE LIVING OPTIONS

Downsize and start

living life!

Downsizers Seek New Living Trends With More Benefits Leading owner, operator and developer of over 55s communities, Ingenia Lifestyle, is recording an unprecedented number of sales and expressions of interest from clients looking for a new alternative to the traditional retirement model.

Lifestyle-focused land lease communities are one of Australia’s newest seniors living trend available to the downsizing market, with Ingenia Lifestyle setting new benchmarks in seniors’ housing.

The popularity of the model is its simplicity; residents purchase a new home and lease the land, offering a more affordable price point, eliminating the need for residents to pay stamp duty or entry and exit fees.

Ingenia Lifestyle lets you retain your independence and offers you the freedom of a low-maintenance lifestyle.

Downsize to a brand new home and enjoy peace of mind in our beautiful lifestyle communities.

New homes now selling from $195,000* • No exit or DMF fees • Keep 100% of your capital gains • Quality homes with modern finishes • Safe and secure community living for over 55s

Call 1800 135 010 today for your nearest location and a free information pack or visit www.ingenialifestyle.com.au *Price is based on owning your home and leasing the land and is correct at time of printing.

Terms & conditions apply.

Colonial H O L I DAY PA R K & Leisure Village

OVER 55’S

lifestyle VILLAGE

Ingenia Chief Operating Officer Nikki Fisher said the demand for Ingenia Lifestyle’s land lease communities comes at a time when many senior Australians are grappling with the availability of more suitable housing.

“Those who look to downsize and relocate to an over 55s lifestyle community often pay less for their new home, which provides them with more capital to fund their senior years,” Nikki said.

“Lifestyle-focused land lease communities are

one of the newest senior living trends available to the downsizing market, allowing residents to own a home but lease the land offering a more affordable entry price point with no stamp duty or complicated exit fees.

“Many lifestyle community residents are also able to access rental assistance, another added comfort each fortnight and take part in the Ingenia Care Wellbeing Program so residents can continue to live independently.”

One simple site fee

covers maintenance, management of the community and facilities, with the home owner retaining 100% of any capital growth made on the property, if they choose to sell their home.

Ingenia Lifestyle has a number of new communities and stages launching in the NSW Central Coast region in Morisset, Chain Valley Bay (STCA), Port Stephens, South West Rocks and Coffs Harbour.

For more information please call 1800 135 010 or visit www.ingenialifestyle.com.au

Colonial Leisure Village is an over 55’s lifestyle environment surrounded by an abundance of trees, birdlife, open spaces, peace and tranquility.

Containing 57 long term permanent sites as well as tourist sites, the Leisure Village has approximately 80 permanent residents.

The Leisure Village is pet friendly and offers security for you and your personal possessions.

Opportunities to purchase homes arise often.

All homes for sale can be found on our website.

Pet Friendly 716 Harrington Rd, HARRINGTON, NSW • Phone: 02 6556 3312 Email: enquiries@colonialhp.com.au • www.colonialhp.com.au

North Coast Seniors

Revolution - July 2017

33

NEWS

Palm Lake Resort Live every moment

Yamba Why not be part of the growing number of retirees who have decided to move to our over 50s resort style living at Palm Lake Yamba. With beautiful beaches, excellent golf and bowling club and an assortment of eating places, Yamba wants for nothing. It’s like being on holidays permanently.

Palm Lake at Yamba gives you everything from kayaking around the resort to enjoying our new bowling green, lots of indoor activities including carpet bowls, pool/billiards, crafts, darts, cards, library and our fitness guru three times a week.

Lots of social functions and dinners are also available. We are pet friendly so no need to leave the furry member of the family behind.

With no entry or exit fees, on site caretakers and secure living what are you waiting for? See you soon at Palm Lake Yamba.

For enquiries phone 1800 084 119.

Banora Point

We are particularly proud of our “Award Winning” concept, with many individually designed homes built in attractively landscaped garden settings.

Our unique position in the Tweed Valley, Banora Point, which is in close proximity to shopping Centres and sports clubs, including some of Australia’s top bowling and golf venues, make it a lifestyle to be envied.

Life can be filled with interesting shared activities, or quietly private if you wish. The many activities for you to enjoy at your leisure are social functions, swimming pool and spa, four rink outdoor bowling green, golf putting green, Croquet

court, indoor Bowls, Snooker/Pool/Billiard tables, table tennis, B-B-Q, gentle exercise, and a fully equipped gym.

There is a hobby workshop and we also have Caravan storage.

A community hall with Baby Grand Piano, Pipe Organ, library and lounge, kitchen facilities, dance floor, ladies/men’s hairdressing salon and acupuncture/massage therapist are provided to cater for your personal requirements.

There is a local bus stop at the entrance of the village and we also have a super medical clinic next door with a gate for our residents.

We are a secure gated community who is pet friendly. Why not give us a call today on 1800 641 665 and get the lifestyle you deserve.

Tweed River Palm Lake Resort Tweed River is the perfect base location for fishing enthusiasts to discover the regions quiet estuaries. The area is famous for mangrove jack, flathead, whiting, trevally, blue swimmer crabs and mud crabs.

Even the wildlife enjoys this pristine location with dolphins being spotted playing in the Tweed River right out front of the resort. Watch them play from your own front balcony or from the river foreshore.

Whale watching is also popular.

This residential waterfront resort is in a prime location surrounded by green belts and pristine bushland reserves. Bird and nature watchers will enjoy this area and all the varied fauna.

Centrally located to everything you need, there are loads of recreational facilities nearby including golf clubs, lawn bowls, social clubs, cinemas, entertain-

ment, water sport, parks, golden beaches and other recreational pursuits. Explore culinary delights at the nearby restaurants and cafes.

Easy access to the M1 Hwy is only minutes away with Coolangatta Airport a short drive away. Medical facilities, shops and department stores are all nearby.

Our clubhouse with 180 degree views of the impressive Tweed River is one of the community hubs. The clubhouse includes relaxing lounges, both inside and out, a dining room, dance floor, cinema, craft room, library, billiard tables, games area and several outdoor BBQ and entertainment areas.

Views are also incorporated by the impressive

swimming pool design, where you will be able to splash to aqua aerobics, relax poolside or enjoy a spa.

Residents will be able to keep active and feel younger whilst they work out at the fitness centre that is sure to impress with its well-equipped gym and sauna.

Located at 2 Barneys Point Road, Banora Point NSW. For all enquires please phone 1800 881 041.

For more information visit our website www.palmlakeresort.com.au 34

July 2017 - Revolution

North Coast Seniors

NEWS

Palm Lake Resort Live every moment

Seaside Village Charm +HUH DW 3DOP /DNH 2\VWHU &RYH ZH KDYH DQ DUUD\ RI IDFLOLWLHV RQ RႇHU WR entertain you, your friends and family.

Pet Friendly Residents and Social Groups Security Gated 10 min walk to Shopping Centre and Doctors No Entry or Exit Fee’s No Stamp duty No Council Rates.

You keep 100% Capital Gains.

Facilities also include: • Gym • Library • Spa • Bowling Green • Lounge Areas, Bar • Dance Floor • Pool Table • Darts • Resort Pool, • BBQ Area • Caravan/Boat Storage

Yamba

P: 1800 084 119 E: yamba@palmlake.com.au H: Open Monday to Friday 8am to 4pm, weekends by appointment only A: Palm Lake Resort, 1 Orion Dr, Yamba NSW 2464

Paradise Living Our unique position in the Tweed Valley Banora Point, with close proximity to shopping centres and sports clubs, which include some of Australia’s top bowling and golf venues, make it a lifestyle to be envied.

P: 1800 641 665 E: banora@palmlake.com.au H: Open Mon to Fri 11.00am-2.00pm A: 67 Winders Place, Banora Point NSW 2486

Banora Point

Social functions Hairdressing salon Acupuncture / massage therapist For the men there is a hobby workshop We also have a top class community hall ZLWK GDQFH ÀRRU EDE\ JUDQG SLDQR pipe organ, library, lounge and kitchen facilities

Facilities also include: • Swimming pool and spa • 4 rink outdoor bowling green • Croquet court • Snooker/pool/billiards tables • Table tennis • BBQ • Aerobics • Caravan storage • Pet Friendly

Waterfront Tranquility 2ႇHULQJ SUHVWLJH ZDWHUIURQW OLYLQJ SULYDWH PDULQD EHUWKV DQG DQ LGHDO location for a coastal retreat at Barneys Point, right on the edge of the Tweed River.

Pet Friendly Social and Fishing Clubs Resort Bus Onsite Caretakers Marina Boardwalk Art Classes Storage for Boats, Caravans and other Watercraft

Facilities also include: Gym Library Indoor Pool, Spa Art Classes Lounge Areas Dance Floor &RႇHH 6WDWLRQ Pool Table, Games Room Darts BBQ Area

Palm Lake Resorts are master planned, security gated, lifestyle communities built exclusively for active mature age living.

No diaries, no deadlines - live every moment.

P: 1800 881 041 E: tweedriver@palmlake.com.au H: Open Monday - Friday 9.00am - 4.00pm A: 2 Barneys Point Road, Banora Point NSW 2486

Tweed River

Your passport to adventure begins at Palm Lake Resort For more information visit our website www.palmlakeresort.com.au Revolution - July 2017 35

SPORT

ABOVE & BELOW: The girls enjoying morning tea.

Images: Contributed.

Lessons that last forever |GEOFF HELISMA

Tom Hancock, 81, is Australia’s top masters ‘throws pentathlon’ athlete: In June this year he swept all before him at the Australian Masters Athletics Championships in Darwin, winning seven gold medals – when the throws pentathlon points across all age groups were added up he was 800 points clear of his nearest rival.

Hancock won gold in the 80 to 85-year-old division for high jump, throws pentathlon, and the javelin, hammer, shot, discus and weight throws.

The big prize, however, was the Joyce Foley Award, which is presented to the overall male throws pentathlon champion.

Hancock has been competing since he was a boy and, as a level 5 coach, he has mentored some of Australia’s top throws athletes, including eight-time Australian discus champion and 1994 Commonwealth Games gold medal winner Werner Reiterer – Hancock was named Australian coach of the year as a result.

But the real Tom Hancock story is not about what he has won, it’s not about the framed medals that adorn some of his Maclean home’s walls, nor the swag of world masters throws world records he has set – it’s about what he does when he’s not competing.

Dividing his time between his hometown, Melbourne, and his winter getaway in Maclean, Hancock devotes significant effort to voluntarily coaching young athletes.

I first met Hancock in 2008 when he was overseeing personal fitness program at a Lower Clarence gymnasium.

“These days I do all my coaching voluntarily,” he said at the time. “I do it because I make a lot of friends. It’s a very good feeling to help people.

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July 2017 - Revolution

“Basically I’m a university trained phys-ed teacher and was a university lecturer in Melbourne.

During that time I started to coach athletics and I was also an athlete – that’s what I’ve been doing ever since.”

Many of his young charges have parlayed their training, under his watchful eyes at Wherrett Park, into representing the region at the state high schools championships in Sydney.

Observing a group of three athletes – Rhiannah Woods, 14, Alyssa Luland, 15, and James

‘It was cool to have a prize from our role model to keep forever.’

Bertalli, 18 – at a recent training session, it was easy to see his personal connection.

Standing back and watching each throw, after some hands-on adjustments to their techniques, Hancock’s body language was as one with his charges – willing them to improve or succeed with each effort.

This personal and humble bond was demonstrated several years ago when he arrived at training and called the athletes over to his car. Upon opening the boot, an array of medals dazzled his charges. “He requested we each choose one or two to keep as a memento,” says Jaslyn Smith, one of the athletes on that day.

“He said his wall was full and he wanted us to have a special gift that would inspire us. It was cool to have a prize from our role model to keep forever.”

The beauty of what Tom Hancock does is not what his students achieve competitively, but how they improve themselves as a result of his mentoring. The reality is that when they finish school they don’t usually continue competing, but they carry a legacy of sorts, one informed by the experience of working towards personal excellence, appreciating each goal achieved and putting what they have learned into practice.

“My motivation is to see them succeed at state level,” Hancock says. “They go to Sydney and get a big thrill going into the Olympic stadium, where they compete against these big Sydney high schools that have pro coaches.

“They have lots of comps, which we don’t, but we still do pretty well against them and, on occasion, we have won NSW titles and medals.

“That’s very satisfying for me and the kids.”

Casino Croquet Club Some of the girls from the Casino Croquet Club decided to adventure to Norfolk Island to play croquet. Below is a small part of their expedition as told by Margaret Fardell.

The girls left Brisbane early on Saturday morning and arrived safely on the Island. Then the fun started. It rained on and off the whole week they were there. One of the member’s neighbour advised her (as the neighbour had grown up on the island) that she should kiss the ground sometime during her stay.

Well she did, slipped on the wet road and ended up rolling in the mud, covering her lovely red top and white pants. But as they say; what happens on tour stays on tour. I will say though, that the girls did not disgrace themselves, even though they didn’t win the trophy. Although they complained about the wet, they really enjoyed themselves.

Croquet players came from Western Australia, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia and all were very good players.

After having so much fun I think they will definitely be back next year.

Margaret Fardell Secretary, Casino Croquet Club

ABOVE: The entire group. Image: Contributed.

BELOW: In prison uniform, the night of the presentation.

Image: Contributed.

TOP: The relationships between Tom Hancock and his young athletes – (l-r) Rhiannah Woods, Alyssa Luland and James Bertalli – are ones of mutual respect ... and fun, too.

ABOVE: Tom Hancock fine tunes Rhiannah Woods’ javelin technique.

Images: Geoff Helisma.

North Coast Seniors

SPORT

Coffs Harbour Over 50s Table Tennis Club in the Community Coffs Harbour Over 50s table tennis club is a very active and successful community organisation. With in excess of 130 members, the club offers a social, friendly atmosphere where people can interact in playing, talking or simply being around like minded people.

The club has a very active social calendar and has recently returned from a very enjoyable bus trip to Iluka (for lunch) via the blueberry plantation at Dirty Creek. After lunch we caught the ferry to Yamba and returned to Coffs Harbour by coach. (Image: Top right)

The Over 50s table tennis club is very proud of its involvement in community activities. Each year we celebrate Australia Day with a fancy dress and BBQ and a guest speaker.

Seniors’ week is always well supported with open days, a sausage sizzle and some friendly play for seniors who simply “drop in”.

Over the last couple of years the Coffs Harbour Cex club has hosted the Healthy Living Expo and our club supports this with a display of what we do and promoting the benefits of table tennis.

This year we had, at the table tennis centre, an Anzac Day display. This memorabilia featured newspaper articles, clothing ration books, helmets, medallions and many others that were well received by our members and guests.

The Over 50s hope to be involved in the upcoming Commonwealth Games as we have a club nomination for the torch relay.

We have always supported the Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser and this year we had our most successful day. As well as having the traditional morning tea we also had a stall of goodies for sale. In addition to this we had an auction of donated items including fish, home grown veg-

etables, children’s story books, written and signed by one of our members, car collector items, plant arrangements and wine. We were very pleased with the overall fundraising as we were able to present a cheque to the Cancer Council for $1,200.

Although the emphasis in the Over 50s is on social play, members have the opportunity to play on Wednesday and Friday evenings from 6pm with the open age group where matches are competitive. There was recently an interclub competition with a combined team from Kempsey and Port Macquarie.

The Over 50s Table Tennis Club play

at 189B Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 12.30pm and visitors and new members are most welcome.

As well as general play on Tuesdays there is specialist coaching available by our accredited coaching staff.

For more information check out our website by simply Googling Coffs Harbour Table Tennis and click on Google Sites or phone 6653 1551. The club can also be contacted by email at: coffsover50stabletennis@gmail.com Bob Kennedy Publicity Officer, Coffs Harbour Over 50s Table Tennis Club

Smiles in style at Lismore Croquet Club Smiles were in style when thirty-two players from seven croquet clubs enjoyed a day of hot croquet and warm fellowship in Lismore’s typically comfortable autumn sunshine at Lismore Croquet Club’s combined Friendship Day and Veterans’ Day. Veterans there were a-plenty with Mary Ashford (Casino Croquet Club) celebrating her 70th birthday on the day and Lorraine Beattie (Alstonville Croquet Club) gaining her accession to the Veterans’ ranks a few days earlier.

Friendship too abounded, with scenes of frivolity and carefree laughter on and off the lawns.

During a tough game, Carmel Ryan (Lismore) burst into song and was spontaneously joined by partner Bernadette Ryan and opponents Margaret Fardell (Casino) and Janice Jameson (Alstonville). Play continued uninterrupted throughout the merriment.

A concreting crew working on the adjoining ex-municipal offices site were inveigled into swapping working tools with Elaine McCormack and Susan Benson (Lismore) and in the spirit of friendship parked a gay pink candy striped concrete truck at the end of Lawn 2 to add a visual backdrop to the festive atmosphere.

After a lunch where good tucker vied with goodwill for top honours players returned to the lawns for some competitive skill building exercises.

Winners were Julie Taylor (Cherry Street), Sonja Enzenick (Alstonville) and Robbie Allen (Cherry Street).

Close behind came Daphne Fulloon (Alstonville), Charles Mailli and Joan Doust, both of Cherry Street,(Casino), and Helen Young and Judy King, both of Ballina.

Club Captain Fay Ross paid tribute to the considerable effort of the many members who contributed to the day, and to the abundance of goodwill provided by hosts and visitors to make the day such a great success.

If you would like to know more, come along to our club next door to the fire station in Molesworth Street. We are usually there on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings but anytime you see us around just drop in. We’d love to tell you all about our wonderful game.

James Yeo, Publicity Officer, Lismore Croquet Club

North Coast Seniors

West Wyalong Croquet One of our readers from West Wyalong (yes we do get around) sent us this kind message.

As a member of the West Wyalong Croquet Club, I was very interested in the stories of the croquet clubs in your April issue. We are a small club in the mid west, play golf croquet on a Wednesday afternoon in the cold weather and early morning in the hot months. We have the use of the third green at our local bowling club. We are not affiliated and are quite happy with what we have.

Marilyn Widdison

Join In

TOP: In the spirit of things. A gala concrete truck brightens our scenery.

MIDDLE: Lismore girls Elaine McCormack and Susan Benson evince the true spirit of Lismore’s Friendship Day. BOTTOM: Croquet played with happy friendship. Joan Doust (Cherry Street), Daphne Fulloon (Alstonville), Janice Jameson (Alstonville) and Julie Taylor (Cherry Street) share a jolly moment in friendly manner.

Images: Contributed

CROQUET CLUB CONTACTS URUNGA - Rosemary Lloyd - 66551341 SAWTELL –Helen Chambers -66515541 WOOLGOOLGA – Jenny Burgess – 66561100 COUTTS CROSSING – Peter Marin – 66495109 YAMBA - Ros Higgins -66460235 ILUKA - Col Hennessy – 0416814911 CASINO – Margaret Fardell -66626509 LISMORE –Elaine McCormack – 66280685 BALLINA -Helen Young -66280682 BALLINA – Jan Copeland – 66868784 ALSTONVILLE – Mary Weingrath – 66286583 BYRON BAY - Graeme Tucker - 66808804

Revolution - July 2017

37

ARTS & CULTURE

NORPA

GRAFTON REGIONAL GALLERY Exhibitions

2 August – 9 September 2017

Sandra Taylor: true stories

A soulful concert of Mozart and Brahms Sunday September 3, 2.30pm The Australian Chamber Orchestra (ACO) presents a soulful concert of Mozart and Brahms at NORPA, Lismore City Hall on Sunday, September 3 starting at 2.30pm.

ACO Collective is the ACO’s critically acclaimed 17-piece string ensemble which delivers the ACO’s regional touring and education programs Australia-wide. ACO Collective (formerly known as ACO2) combines musicians of the ACO with Australia’s most talented young professional musicians at the outset of their careers, creating a combined ensemble with a fresh, energetic performance style. These young professionals have all participated in the ACO’s year-long Emerging Artists’ Program and are in demand from Australia’s professional orchestras, but dedicate themselves to the ACO’s high-octane performance style for intense touring periods.

In 2016, internationally acclaimed Finnish violinist Pekka Kuusisto took up the inaugural position as ACO Collective Artistic Director. ACO Collective, under Kuusisto’s direction, opened the ACO’s 2016 National Subscription season with an 11-concert tour of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide, and Newcastle.

Britain’s leading clarinetist, Matthew Hunt, joins ‘probably the most engaging maverick in classical music today’ (The Times), Pekka Kuusisto, and ACO Collective AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ORCHESTRA PRESENTS as the soloist for Brahms’ soulful Clarinet Quintet.

Brahms came out of retirement to write the Clarinet Quintet and created a work that is clearly written from the heart. Bartók too was writing from his soul when he composed his Divertimento.

Experience a moving afternoon of classical music featuring music by Mozart, Bartók, SUNDAY 3 SEPTEMBER, 2.30PM and Brahms.

NORPA AT LISMORE CITY HALL Ticket information is available at BUY ONLINE norpa.org.au norpa.org.au or BOX OFFICE 1300 066 772 call 1300 066 772.

TRUE STORIES presents new and existing works by significant Australian artist Sandra Taylor. Sandra burst into the art world with her painted figurative ceramics in the mid 1970s. Her early boldly humorous works layered in meaning put slugs on dinner plates and pigs in human situations – pigs lounging on sofas and lazing in kidney shaped pools.

These works revealed stories of suburban values. When Sandra moved to Buccarumbi, near Grafton, in 1982, the rural and bush took over where pencil pines and loungerooms left off. Dead trees, cows, working dogs and dingoes told stories of this new life. Later, the pencil pines returned as symbols of peace and prosperity in situations that

July 2017 - Revolution

Sandra Taylor Glorious home, fabulous pool 1996

contemporary identity Curated by Deborah Taylor, Contemporary

Identity looks at the contemporary identity of 21st century Aboriginal artists whose ancestry is from the Clarence Valley. The exhibition asks the question, whether you live here in the Valley or somewhere else, what is the influence of the landscape of your Gumbaynggirr, Bundjalung or Yaegl ancestors on your artistic footprint?

Brittany Hegedus Isaac Jumping 2016 Grafton Regional Gallery is located at 158 Fitzroy Street, Grafton - 6642 3177 Email: gallery@clarence.nsw.gov.au Opening Hours: 10am-4pm Tuesday-Saturday (closed Sun/Mon)

Northern Rivers Community Gallery - Ballina Wednesday July 26 - Sunday August 20

Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG), Ballina launches four exciting new exhibitions in August and welcomes the community and visitors to join us in the Gallery.

Hinterland | Maggie Cross Hinterland focuses on the varied landscapes of this region. Inspired by the natural landscape, the artist uses charcoal to create dramatic tonal works that embody the energy of the local hinterland. Maggie has a background as a visual arts teacher and workshop facilitator.

Pilgrimage of Expression | Dianne Ingram Pilgrimage of Expression explores the artist’s personal journey and changing vision, relating to the landscape and the figure, seeing them as independent, intertwined, and accepting of one another.

Wrack | Diana White Diana uses simple abstract shapes to project a powerful sense of underlying emotions and landscapes of the mind.

Her works are based on the maritime mystery of an ancient shipwreck, a generational love story and an obsession with discovery.

Sticks no Stones | Kerrie Howland, Annie Roberts & Jeff Keyes An organic installation of artworks inspired by the artists’ time shared at Sportsman Creek conservation area in New South Wales. The atmosphere, moods and visual imagery of this unique riparian sand island inspired the collective creativity for the works included in this exhibition.

Image: Dianne Ingram, Pilgrimage

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were neither. In recent years, Sandra has turned to painting, a shift, she says, that was waiting to happen for a long time. This solo exhibition presents an important look at Sandra’s influential place in the visual arts.

The Northern Rivers Community Gallery is located at 44 Cherry Street Ballina and is open Wednesday to Friday from 10am until 4pm and weekends from 9.30am until 2.30pm.

For further information contact the Gallery on telephone 02 6681 6167 or visit www. nrcgballina.com

North Coast Seniors

ARTS & CULTURE

Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre Olive Cotton Award for photographic portraiture

Friday 21 July, 2017 to Sunday 8 October, 2017 Natalie Grono Pandemonium’s shadow 2015 pigment inkjet print 72.3 × 108.5cm Acquired as the Winner of the Olive Cotton Award for photographic portraiture, 2015 Tweed Regional Gallery collection

C.ex Coffs

The Withey Family Gallery The Olive Cotton Award is generously funded by the family of Olive Cotton, one of Australia’s leading twentieth century photographers, and aims to show new portraits by professional and emerging artists. The 2017 Award will be the tenth Award since the inception of the prize in 2005.

The Award, which recognises excellence in photographic portraiture, is held biennially and offers a major prize of $20,000. The Friends of Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre Inc. sponsor Directors’ Choice awards to the value of $4,000. A non-acquisitive People’s Choice Award will run throughout the exhibition, allowing the public to vote for their favourite image.

The Gallery thanks the family of Olive Cotton and the Friends of the Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre Inc. for their generous ongoing financial support of this award.

Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery

The Tweed Regional Gallery is open from Wednesday to Sunday 10.00am to 5.00pm - Free Admission 2 Mistral Road, (Cnr Tweed Valley Way), Murwillumbah South, 6670 2176

A taste of Ireland The very soul of the Emerald Isle, "A Taste of Ireland" takes the World of Irish Dance & Music to the next level!

The fastest and greatest dancers in the land come together to perform the innovative and exciting new show celebrating the very best of Irish culture and history!

A Taste of Ireland, is the vivid portrayal of Ireland’s story told through music and dance. Irish Dance has come a long way since the inception of Riverdance and Lord of the Dance, however A Taste of Ireland takes the art form to the next level. Transporting the audience to a time and place where tunes, taps and tradition were all part of the soul, A Taste of Ireland is the true heart of Ireland. Pairing a cast of the most talented champion Irish dancers & musicians, A Taste of Ireland has a blend of what is perhaps one of the only un spoilt depictions of Ireland to hit Australia. Unique

for a production in this genre, A Taste of Ireland features music and dance reflected through raw talent, which is impressively 100% LIVE. Danced at a standard rarely seen outside of the World Championship stage, A Taste of Ireland was composed and choreographed in Dublin and is quickly on its way to becoming the new frontier in Irish entertainment.

Dazzling feet meet moments of Irish wit, as the audience embarks on a journey through the different elements of Irish tradition, as the music and song ballads twist and turn through brilliant choreography, to tell the story of one of the World’s most historic nations.

A Taste of Ireland is the quintessential Irish tale, a show never to be missed. The show will be held on Friday 25 August at C.ex Coffs, tickets are $49.90 and are available at www.cex.com.au.

CHRG Collection, Jonathan Crowther, Jane Wilson 18 August - 23 September 2017

Be surprised by the gems to be found in the gallery’s own collection and see new work by artists Jonathan Crowther and Jane Wilson.

Recent works by 2015 EMSLA winner Jonathan Crowther investigate the relationship between the digital image and painting, and the way we relate to objects around us through the intermediary of the screen.

Using texture and layers of tone and colour, Jane Wilson explores the figurative subject. How our experiences of joy, confusion, and loss are often written in our faces remains a preoccupation of Jane’s work.

North Coast Seniors

(left) Image: Ted Hillyer, The Sea Wall - Early Morning, 2002 (below left) Image: Jonathan Crowther, Turning words into action, 2016 (below) Image: Jane Wilson, The return of memory, 2016

FRIDAY 25 AUGUST Tickets $49.90 8.00pm Show

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CROSSWORD - SPONSORED BY COFFS HARBOUR FISHERMEN’S CO-OP

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ACROSS 17 Nimble 18 Old Persian governor 20 Oxygen element 21 Type of race 23 Dole out 24 The heart (coll) 25 Exuberance 27 Type of feeling 29 Lack of sound 33 Get wider 34 Ballroom performers 38 Place for travellers 40 Comic part

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42 Most sacred 45 Mode of dress 47 Compulsory users 49 Monoliths in NT 50 Fairy-like 51 A fish 52 Likely 53 Musical work 54 Prim person 56 Large plant (3,4) 58 Large leaves 60 Dedicated action 62 Lost moisture 64 A herb 65 From Dublin 66 A human one

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67 Very great 69 Over there 72 Celebrate loudly 74 Keen 75 Otherwise 77 Encounters 80 Mineral deposits 82 Requests 84 Satisfy 87 Unafraid 89 High regard 92 Poison 93 Zero 94 Frozen water 95 Bell-shaped flower 96 Consist of

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97 Droop 98 Being alive 99 Donkey 100 Better 101 Set in place 103 Nip 105 Distilled liquor 107 Of the tides 110 Front of skull 112 Take exception to 116 Bring out 119 Great sight 120 Out of date 122 Correct 124 Occurring 125 Winner

127 Angry outburst 128 Those owed money 129 Directing 132 Food additive 135 A fruit 136 Beef cattle 137 Unappetising food 138 Munitions stores 142 A flowering plant 144 Floor covers 146 Becomes tattered 147 Runs off 151 Sword holder 153 Eggs 154 Pamphlet 155 A marble

157 Treaty between nations 158 Come again 159 Born 160 Colouring substance 161 Inactive 162 Hunting animal 165 Walks drunkenly 166 State strongly 169 A continent 171 Lay down pavers 173 Fire remains

North Coast Seniors

CROSSWORD - SPONSORED BY COFFS HARBOUR FISHERMEN’S CO-OP 176 A relative 178 Stately home 179 Odour 181 Amounts taken off 183 Easily breakable 184 Strong-smelling 185 A recess 186 Frighten 187 Morbid 190 Checked books 194 Play in mud 197 Handcuff 201 Scottish skirts 204 Ignites 205 Come to a point 206 Have great enjoyment 207 Complete 208 Titled lady 209 Obedient 210 An organic acid 211 Rowdy protesters 212 Sediment 213 Yell out 216 Planned 221 Famous musical composer 224 Push in 228 Sudden run 230 Test metal 231 Dig out 232 Nothing 233 Closes 234 Destroys 235 Remove top 236 Picture on wall (3-2)

DOWN 1 Brought to life 2 Amount of wool 3 Inlets 4 Account 5 A vegetable 6 Cowshed 7 The two 8 Stair railing 9 Knocked about 10 Cook a cake 11 A poet 12 A blessing 13 Wait 14 Pleads for 15 A shrub 16 Footwear 18 Wet soil 19 Cooked food 22 Caught sight of 26 Hard worker 28 Go inside 30 Presses 31 A decree 32 A social group 35 Type of tree 36 Small beds 37 Assessed 39 Keep away from 41 Oaths 42 A gap 43 Three times 44 Explodes 46 Not strong

47 Ship’s mooring device 48 Artery insertions 49 Strange behaviour 55 Join in 57 Amount of paper 58 Travel by air 59 Form of address 61 Farm trucks 63 Fireplace 68 Permission 70 Speaking loftily 71 Late in a day 73 Light providers 76 Lack of harshness 78 Large trees 79 Sudden course changes 80 Ornamental shrub 81 Consumes 83 A warder 85 Lax 86 Horrify 87 Meat 88 A scene 90 Portable light 91 A disease 102 Unbeaten 103 Small ball 104 Residents 106 Mechanical man 108 Keenness 109 Ignited 111 Amount sent out 112 Apse 113 In short supply

114 Pour out liquor 115 Scratch 117 Ended 118 Royal seat 121 Always 123 Ukuleles (abb) 126 Correct 130 Hot beverage 131 Lose friendship 133 Prayer books 134 A lettuce 139 A trimming 140 A coal 141 Makes suited 143 Long gowns 144 Anchorage 145 Scholar 146 Gives sustenance 148 Inhabiting the woodlands 149 Precious stones 150 House fittings 152 Vision 153 A whale 156 Sagacious 157 Book of maps 163 Scope 164 Part of an ear 167 Piled up 168 Put on list 170 Isolated land 171 Garden bed 172 Destructive person 173 Slandered 174 Carpenter’s tool

175 Read over 177 Overturns 180 Caused pain 181 Night moisture 182 Cut wood 188 Attain 189 Counting frame 191 Ordinary 192 A fool 193 Musical introduction 195 Landed 196 First one 198 Foreign 199 Following 200 Vivid 202 Burst inwards 203 Striped wild cat 214 Hop kiln 215 Old Russian 216 Funeral fire 217 Leave out 218 Try out 219 Import tax 220 A crustacean 221 Piece of corn 222 Head movement 223 A fever 224 Irritation 225 Points 226 Vases 227 Extrasensory perceptions (abb) 228 Move on waves 229 Employed Solutions: Page 46

Can’t get fishing?

Let us deliver straight to your door!

1. Go to www.coffsfishcoop.com.au 2. Click on “Shop Online” in the center of the page 3. Scroll down the page and make your selections 4. Click the “Add to your basket” button as you go through each item

5. When you’re done picking things out, just click on the basket in the upper right – it will shake to get your attention!

6. Remember that if you spend at least $75, delivery is FREE. If you spend less than $75, it is only $10.

7. Sit back and wait for your seafood to arrive!

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SENIORS DEAL

7.50 MON & TUES

Our Takeaway offers the best fish and chips in Coffs Harbour using a variety of freshly caught local species.

Our menu ranges from inexpensive fish and chips ($7 for the kids) to more tailored options to take advantage of our full range of fresh fish.

Every day there is a Specials Board indicating the daily catch. If your choice remains unsatisfied, you may choose any fresh seafood you like, and we will cook and prepare it to your liking for a small fee.

Our covered dining deck is popular with locals and visitors alike.

Dine at our outdoor tables overlooking the fishing vessels, or take a picnic walk to Muttonbird Island.

To complement our seafood you will find a large variety of icecream, from Paddle Pops® to high quality scoops in waffle cones.

We encourage you to bring a bottle of wine to enjoy with your meal.

North Coast Seniors

Revolution - July 2017

41

TRAVEL

Captivating CAPE TOWN |JILL WEEKS

Sir Francis Drake is credited with the saying, ‘This Cape is the most stately thing and fairest cape we saw in the whole circumference of the earth’. If he were to revisit the Cape and, particularly Cape Town, these days he would still be greatly impressed.

Table Mountain is the centrepiece. It is a majestic sight that is fascinating from any angle. Some energetic people like to walk up Table Mountain, however, most take the cable car. There are several paths you can take, one of which is from the beautiful Kirstenbosch National Botanic Gardens. A reasonable level of fitness is certainly required for the hike.

The Aerial Cableway has been in operation since 1929. These days the cable cars are modern and it’s a quick trip to the top. The cable car floor revolves, and this allows all to have a spectacular view of the waterfront and surrounds which is pleasing for photography enthusiasts.

On Table Mountain you can walk around and view the vegetation, see Dassies (small mammals roughly the size of a rabbit) bounding along, have a meal at the café, buy souvenirs at the shop and watch hardy souls try abseiling.

On a sunny day it is a breath-taking sight. From this vantage point you can see yachts, small boats and ships bobbing around in the sparkling harbour. Robben Island

is also visible and this is where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.

It’s worth taking a tour to the Island, the guides are ex-prisoners with tales to tell and will also show you Nelson Mandela’s cell.

Cape Point is claimed to be one of the top tourist attractions.

It is part of the Cape of Good Hope, where two oceans meet- the chilly waters of the Atlantic and the warmer waters of the Indian Ocean. The scenery is stunning, and the lighthouse is interesting.

The Waterfront is the place to go for dining, shopping and entertainers. A visit to the African Trading Port is a must. Housed in the Old Port Captain’s Building it has African arts and crafts over three levels. From masks to furniture, ceramics, beads, soapstone carvings and baskets, there is a souvenir for all tastes.

Nobel Square has bronze statues of four Nobel Peace Prize laureates who played significant roles in the road to democracy. The statues of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, F.W. de Klerk, Nelson Mandela and Albert Luthuli stand looking out over the square, which is often the stage for many artists and bands to perform.

A ride on the Cape Wheel is fun. You can see many of the local landmarks and city skyline as it goes around. The small red boat tour around the harbour is relaxing and is a great way to learn about the history of the harbour. The tour

passes fishing boats, a fish factory and the many seals that lounge nearby hoping for some fish scraps to come their way. A tour of the Castle of Good Hope, once a fortress, is also on the list. It’s said to be the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa.

The food experience in Cape Town is tasty and different. The Cape Malay curries are delicious as is Bobotie, a spicy dish that’s similar to a shepherd’s pie but with an egg custard on top. Biltong, a favourite with locals, is deemed to be an acquired taste for this Aussie. A street food named Bunny Chow, is also popular for a quick meal. Despite the name no rabbits are involved, it consists of a curry served in a hollowed-out loaf of bread. South Africans also love to Braai (bbq) with Boerewors (farmer’s sausage) and other delicacies being cooked.

There are many wineries nearby which have superb restaurants.

Groot Constantia, founded in 1682, is an imposing building with tasting areas, restaurants and art work in a picturesque setting. Around a few corners is the Steenberg wine estate with Bistro Sixteen82, that serves tapas as well as other meals.

The green and red ‘chandelier’ made from the bottom of wine bottles hangs over the tasting area and is an impressive sight.

Cape Town is captivating and offers much to the tourist. It is an unforgettable experience.

Let’s Ramble Clarence Valley Ramblers are the local chapter of the Campervan & Motorhome Club of Australia. The CMCA was formed in 1986 and has over 70,000 members making it the largest RV club in the Southern Hemisphere.

While the CMCA offer many exclusive member benefits, from a monthly magazine, to tailored insurance to suit your vehicle, national rallies, discounts at a group of van parks, to member places to stay. If your interested in joining, then go to their web site www. cmca.net.au If you join our chapter, then our members at the Ramblers will ensure you will have a fun time every time we get together. We meet monthly at various places both close to the Clarence Valley and further afield. We bush camp, use private properties, as well as some van parks. We can offer a wealth of knowledge to people just starting out on their adventure with their RV. We have entertainment from various games, quiz’s, even some professional entertainers. We enjoy BBQ’s camp oven meals, and pure gastronomical feasts. We hold tag-a-longs supporting RV friendly places along the way, as well as occasional dinners, shows and

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July 2017 - Revolution

even a cruise.

We support the Westpac helicopter each year, and hope to hold another of our giant garage sales in August/ September so watch the paper for more details, as this is where you will find bargains galore.

We also hold a week of activities tying in with the Jacaranda Festival each year. Members travel from all over Australia to be part of this great event.

The Ramblers will celebrate their 20th birthday in February 2018. We currently have 161 actual members or 91 vehicles. Our vehicles range from small wiz-bangs, caravans, motorhomes, a converted bus and a 5th wheeler.

We are all about having fun, learning new things, and making new friendships, while exploring this great country. Our age range is from mid 50s to early 80s, and we have married couples as well as solo members. Remember your age is only a number, proving that you are never too old to get out there and have a wonderful adventure.

If you are interested in finding out more details, or would just like to come along and check out what we get up too, then please phone me, Carol, on 0472 517 170.

TOP: Tim takes a bath at Broadwater.

MIDDLE: Winners of disc bowls & runner up.

(Back row. Terry Cutting, Rex Watkins, Bob Gardner. Front, Dianne Kohn, marg Sherlock, Terry Hicks) BOTTOM: Some of the mob at Brooms Head Feb 2017. Images: Contributed.

This is Australia‘s number one retirement lifestyle book. The Weeks’ have visited over 200 locations around Australia to come up with the best Australia has to offer and included tips, the hotspots and local knowledge. Two editions of Where To Retire In Australia have proved popular with practical advice, tips, maps, great photographs and covers recreation, real estate, climate, shopping, dining, transport, retirement villages, pet ownership… to name but a few of the essential topics they cover.

The enterprising couple have travelled thousands of kilometres around Australia to find the best retirement spots.

To purchase a copy visit www.where2now.net

North Coast Seniors

TRAVEL

For destination

INSPIRATION

North Coast Seniors

Duck Creek Mountain Travel has been your locally owned and operated travel agency for 18 years. We are an AFTA accredited agency and winner of the Alstonville Wollongbar Business and Community awards 2014. As an Helloworld Group Affiliate, booking your holiday with us gives you the safety and benefits of booking with an industry leader, with the personalisation, expertise and service of a small business. Margie and Sam both attend overseas educational trips, ship inspections, information sessions and conferences that provide them with up to date training on booking systems, supplier deals and destination knowledge.

We pride ourselves on exceptional customer service; we always go the extra mile to ensure your holiday is perfectly tailored to you. We listen to your requests and cover every aspect of your holiday; including insurance, special assistance, fantastic deals for single travellers and past passenger discounts.

We offer tips and suggest enhancements from our vast experience of visiting every continent and over 65 countries.

Every client is special to us and we understand you all have different ideas of what your perfect holiday is. We can book active adventures, luxury escapes, family fun or special interest such as gardening, food and wine and sporting events. We also book many different means of travel, including air, car hire, coach touring, ferries, private transfers and cruising in its various forms; from

huge ships to sailing adventures.

We work with reputable travel companies that are passionate about their clients and the destinations they are travelling to. Intrepid is a wonderful example of one of these companies; they pride themselves on being a responsible business and expect their staff and travellers to demonstrate the principals of responsible travel; respecting people, cultures and local environments. The Intrepid Foundation was created in 2012 with a simple mission to empower travellers to give back and positively impact the communities they visit. In 14 years, they’ve raised over $4.7 million for more than 75 different non-for-profit organisations in 25 countries. Margie is very much looking forward to experiencing, first hand, an Intrepid tour of Cuba later in the year.

Why not pop into our store to say ‘hello’ or send us an email travel@ dcmtravel.com.au and we can add you to our very popular weekly newsletter filled with destination inspiration for your next adventure.

Revolution - July 2017

43

TRAVEL

A Great In-Depth Tour of Vietnam Macleay Valley Travel has fully conducted tours each year to over 30 different destinations, but by far the most popular destination is Vietnam. This is because Vietnam is such a beautiful country, with lovely, friendly people, a fascinating complex culture with very affordable prices, best illustrated by the fact that Macleay Valley Travel has a full 3-week tour for only $3,815 per person twin share.

Amazingly this great price covers all of the following: • Return airfares from Sydney and Brisbane into Saigon and out of Hanoi with Singapore Airlines, considered by many as the world’s best airline.

• A 19-day coach tour of Vietnam visiting all the interesting places in this wonderful country. It goes to several areas not often visited by tourists.

• Quality 3 to 4 star self-contained and air-conditioned centrally located accommodation.

• Most meals and all entrance fees.

• All transport and transfers with-

in Vietnam.

• An overnight cruise on world heritage Halong Bay. • All airport taxes and fuel levies.

• Services of a Vietnamese tour guide and if there are 12 or more tour participants there will be an Australian tour escort.

This is a small group tour with a maximum of about 25 tour participants.

For anyone without a travel partner wishing to travel at twin share rates, Macleay Valley Travel will do their best to find someone with whom you can twin share.

For a single room, there is an extra charge of $1,195.

There is an optional 3-day extension to Angkor Way for $1,035 per person twin share or $1,195 for a single room.

There are two departure dates for this tour, November 6, and January 28. They take place during the cooler weather for this tropical country.

For a full itinerary phone Macleay Valley at 65 62 6699 or see their website www.macleayvalleytravel.com

Great Value

CONDUCTED OVERSEAS TOURS ALL PRICES NOW INCLUDE AIRPORT TAXES AND LEVIES GREECE & THE GREEK ISLANDS $5995

19 DAY TOUR

DEP. OCT 6

Flying Emirates to Athens. 15 days touring Greece including a 4 day cruise of the Greek Islands of Mykonos, Patmos, Rhodes Crete & Santorini. 3 day Dubai stopover with Abu Dhabi tour.

VIETNAM EXPLORER Flying Singapore Airlines into Saigon & out of Hanoi. Plus 2 flights within Vietnam. 4 nights Saigon, 4 nights Hoi An, 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hanoi Bay with cruise.

BURMA (MY ANMAR) 2 WEEK TOUR

NEW ZEALAND $4845 16 DAY TOUR DEP. NOV 21 & FEB 23

Flying Singapore Airlines into Saigon & out of Hanoi. 19 day coach tour of Vietnam. Halong Bay Cruise.

Optional extension to Angkor Wat.

Flying Air NZ into Christchurch & out of Auckland. 16 day coach tour of New Zealand including 4 cruises and the Transalpine rail trip.

$5655

CAMBODIA IN DEPTH 20 DAY TOUR

DEP. NOV 9

Flying Emirates into Cairo.

15 day Egypt tour including a 4 day cruise from Luxor to Aswan. 3 days Dubai including a tour to Abu Dhabi.

4-5 star luxury accommodation.

INDIA DEP. NOV 6

Flying Thai into Rangoon plus 3 flights within Burma.

12 day Burma tour by coach, plane & boat. 2 nights Bangkok.

THAILAND AT LEISURE

$3815 3 WEEK TOUR DEP. NOV 6 & JAN 28

EGYPT

$2625 15 DAY TOUR DEP. OCT 18 & MAR 12

$4580

VIETNAM OVERLAND

$3345

15 DAY TOUR

$2680

2 WEEK TOUR DEP. MAR 14

Flying Singapore Airlines into Bangkok. 6 nights Bangkok, 4 nights beach resort, 2 nights Rose Garden resort, 1 night River Kwai.

SRI LANKA (CEYLON) DEP. JAN 30

Flying Singapore Airlines into Phnom Penh. 14 day overland tour of Cambodia.

Small group tour.

$4575

16 DAY TOUR

DEP. MAR 17

Flying Singapore Airlines into Colombo. 14 day coach & rail tour of this beautiful country.

THAILAND & CHIANG MAI FLORAL FESTIVAL CHINA WITH YANGTZE CRUISE

$5265 19 DAY TOUR DEP. NOV 16 & MAR 22 Flying Singapore Airlines into Delhi and out of Bombay plus 3 flights within India. 16 day coach, plane & boat tour of India. 2 days Singapore.

$3290

2 WEEK TOUR

DEP. JAN 31

Flying Thai into Bangkok plus a flight within Thailand. 4 days Chiang Mai for their spectacular floral festival. 2 days River Kwai, 4 day coach tour of Northern Thailand, 2 nights in beach-front resort.

$3655

15 DAY TOUR

DEP. APR 24

Flying China Eastern Airlines into Shanghai & out of Beijing plus 3 flights within China. Includes 4 night first class Yangtza River cruise.

The prices listed mainly include return airfares from Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne, good twin share accommodation, many meals, all transfers, Australian tour leader local tour guides & tipping

For more information or bookings contact:

MACLEAY VALLEY TRAVEL PTY LTD PHONE TOLL FREE 1800 810 809 - WE TRY HARDER TO FIND YOU THE BEST TRAVEL DEAL! 33 Smith Street, Kempsey NSW 2440

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July 2017 - Revolution

Email: info@macleayvalleytravel.com

Website: www.macleayvalleytravel.com

North Coast Seniors

TRAVEL

Travel safely and confidently on and around buses Navigating the Busways network doesn’t have to be daunting and with a few safety tips, bus travel can enable you to travel independently and make for a positive experience.

If hopping on a Busways bus is a new experience for you, then using a bus service to visit the local shopping centre, attending a doctor’s appointment or visiting family and friends can sound a little intimidating.

Wherever the destination or reason, Busways is committed to providing a safe, comfortable and reliable service to all passengers including seniors and persons with disability.

With a few general tips, you can travel safely and more confidently using the local bus network.

Plan your trip ahead of time Find out the bus route number and departure time before going to a new destination. You should plan to arrive at the bus stop a few minutes earlier before the bus departs to avoid rushing. You can visit transportnsw.info or call 131 500 to plan your trip. For bus timetables, route maps, region guides, and ticket information visit busways.com.au.

Board an easy access service Catch an easy access service which features buses with low floors, ramped entry and additional priority seating for the elderly and less mobile people. When getting on and off the bus, watch your step and ask the driver to lower the bus if possible. Easy access services can be identified in Busways timetables marked with a wheelchair symbol.

Stay seated while the bus is moving Sit closer to the front of the bus if possible and avoid changing seats while the bus is moving. When you’re approaching your destination, press the stop button well before your stop to give the driver plenty of time to stop safely. It’s a good idea to stay seated until the bus has come to a complete stop to exit the bus safely.

Talk to Busways for assistance If you are unsure about the route, destination and where to get off, or need help with boarding the bus, ask your driver for assistance and more information. Busways regularly hold information stalls at shopping centres and events in Grafton and Yamba. Chat to their friendly staff about your transport options or provide feedback on your service.

EVERYTHING FOR YOUR CARAVAN AND MORE Tim and Rachael Seivers have been operating Yamba Caravan Centre for almost three years, providing caravaners with everything they need to get them on the road and ‘living the dream’.

Keeping your caravan in top condition and ready for your next trip is Tim’s priority.

“Not only do we service caravans, we are also able to undertake additions and alterations, cabinet rebuilding and interior refits, the installation of 12v fridge and freezers or a complete rebuild if that’s what’s needed,” says Tim. “We can do almost anything.

“We specialise in fitting solar panels and complete 12-volt systems, giving our customers the opportunity to experience the independence and convenience of using the sun as a source of power. Having solar gives them the flexibility of really getting off the beaten track.

Yamba Caravan Centre provide a call out service to the local caravan parks, to help with any caravan hiccups experienced by visitors.

They also take care of all caravan insurance related matters completing work for all recognised and reliable

North Coast Seniors

insurers. They pride themselves on making the process simple for their customers. As Tim says “Just bring us your claim number and we’ll take care of the rest”.

“Along with servicing and repairs, we also stock a large range of caravan and RV parts and accessories as well as Ironman 4X4 accessories. Our range is always expanding, and if we don’t have it in stock, we are more than happy to order it in for you,” says Tim. To add to this, they have a large range of second hand caravans for sale and are constantly looking for vans to sell on consignment. They can take the hassle out of selling your van for you.

They also have caravan storage facilities available.

And what if you don’t have a caravan? Not to worry, Tim and Rachael have vans available for rent which they will set up on site for you, at one of the many local caravan parks in the lower Clarence Valley.

No matter what your needs are, Yamba Caravan Centre will be able to help. Call in and see the team at 1 Uki Street, Yamba Industrial Estate or give them a call on 66 468184. They are open Monday to Friday 9am-4pm.

YAMBA

N A V A CAR CENTRE Service, Repairs, Insurance, Parts On All Caravans

S N A V G IN K A T W O N ON CONSIGNMENT Insurance Repairs Caravan Sales, Servicing and Repairs All Parts & Accessories 1 Uki St Yamba • Ph 02 6646 8184 Revolution - July 2017

45

TRAVEL

Top travel tips for seniors Travelling in today’s world is daunting enough, imagine being aged 65 and over and having to travel either on your own or with your partner to a destination you have never been before? Taking the necessary safety precautions and planning well ahead of time, will help in making your trip planning process an enjoyable and stress-free one!

BOOKING INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS When travelling to new international destinations, choosing the most appropriate air carrier for you is very important. You may have a frequent flyer program that you are a member of and it is always a good idea to check in with them first to see whether you can use some or all of your points on your flight. You may also have a preferred airline that you like to fly internationally with. It’s always best to keep flying with ‘who you know’, you may sometimes pay a little extra for peace of mind. A low-cost fare doesn’t necessarily equate to a cheaper fare.

It is important to always read the fare rules for all inclusions.

TRAVELLING WITH PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS AND MEDICAL AIDS Senior travellers need to be very aware of the process that is required when travelling with prescription medications and medical aids.

The general rule of thumb is to visit your general practitioner and advise them of the dates you intend to travel and the destinations you will be travelling to. Your general practitioner should be able to advise you which countries require vaccines.

If you take regular prescription medication, your doctor will need to write you a letter on their letterhead which clearly states the dates you are travelling, where you will travel to and list all medications that you will be travelling with and the reasons why you are taking them. A letter is also required to explain all medical aids that will be visible on your person while travelling and that contain any metal that may set off security scanning machines. Prescription

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July 2017 - Revolution

medication needs to be packed in your hand luggage and is to be concealed in an airtight, clear plastic bag together with the letter from your Doctor. It is highly recommended that you always keep the letter inside the bag with the medication at all times, even in your hotel room.

LEAVE A COPY OF YOUR TRAVEL DOCUMENTS WITH A LOVED ONE BACK HOME In this paperless society that we live in, most travel documents are now electronically sent. This makes it a lot easier to duplicate plane tickets, accommodation and tour vouchers.

It is also very important to make at least three copies of your Passport, any Visas and other documents such as doctor’s letters, travel insurance policies and vaccination reports. Two copies you take with you - a copy kept with your travel documents and the other in a secure place in your hand luggage preferably. The third copy is left at home.

SELECTING THE RIGHT TRAVEL INSURANCE There are many travel insurance products on the market that are designed specifically for Seniors.

It is important to be aware of the following before you begin to make enquiries and in particular, before you purchase a policy.

• Purchasing an annual policy is a great way to minimise your spend on travel insurance and is ideal for seniors.

This is because it allows you to travel multiple times in the one year and you are covered under the same policy for all your trips. It is always important to ensure that the policy you choose covers you for unlimited medical and emergency transportation, should you be travelling to more remote areas.

• If you are planning to engage in any high risk activities such as bungee jumping, you will need to ensure that the policy you choose will cover you for these activities. Policies are age dependant and some may not even cover you for what they class as high risk activities, once you reach a certain age.

Contact the insurer directly and advise them of exactly what you plan on doing, as the information is not always clear in

their brochures and online information.

• You are required to disclose all pre-existing medical conditions and most travel insurance companies will conduct a medical assessment test with you (mainly done over the telephone), that will then determine the extra cover you require. You do usually end up paying a bit more than the regular premium would have been should you not have taken the extra cover for pre-existing conditions, but it is vital that you disclose all medical information prior to purchasing a policy, as you will not be covered for what you need should the unthinkable happen.

• Insure all your valuables! If you are travelling with the family jewels, be sure that you insure them for what they are worth and if you have the original receipts, take a copy with you and keep the original copy somewhere safe back home. Electronic devices and general luggage items are more often than not covered for a large sum amount. Make sure that you know the true value of your items prior to travelling and check

|MARTA FERGUSSON

that the amount your policy covers is going to be enough.

HAVE FUN Travel is fun. It is about experiencing new places, eating new foods, toasting to new wines and making memories that will last a lifetime. In your more mature years, you may be travelling to tick off a destination from our bucket list or visit long lost family and friends; so whatever your motivation to travel, ensure you are always well informed of the destinations you will visit, before you even pick your travel dates. Travel is like putting together pieces of a puzzle – the more information you gather early on, the quicker and easier it will be to find the correct sequence in which you need to follow, so to plan a stress-free, fun filled holiday you will remember for many years to come!

For more information on Seniors Travel, please visit http://smartraveller. gov.au/guide/Pages/senior-travellers. aspx

CROSSWORD SOLUTION S S P B P C D S

C A S F M D M S

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

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

B E A N C A E S T R E E A M E L O M S

S P A R S E

P E A

T E A

O U R C P A L O T E T F U D T E E S T

B B Y O S R A T I O E H D

T R O E B A L E T A N A G E I N N T S S I D E E R S S T R V A N G V E A N I D A P L D U P T Y

B A N I S B A T U T E R F R S I L T Y O S R F E A I L T E X I S N C H G D E E V I C T E A R I N G T E R M O O B R O E E R S T A G A D E C H E H W A E R L D C I G C C H R O O T A B E Y D

B T R A T L A T E T I R E O N D

N D E V R L E N S T I N R O G O B A O R T I R G H A T S T C H U D G G E N B I T L L O R T R I G O P I N H E A L

B B P A A I C K E R E E D A L E F A D P R O N E S A C R I R I S H R L O O R E S S L A I C E T N G A S S H N T I D A L S E L I C C U R A T R K C A D E R P S P I C E S T O F R A Y S E L R E T A W D Y E I R S R S A S H E S B A A L A R M W S M A R E V E L C D R I E N A I N O U G H T D U C E H

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

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

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

E L V A S D E D E R E M B O R L A D N G

N E D S E C E O R T I D T S I G S E R T

North Coast Seniors

YOUR LOCAL BUS NETWORK IN YAMBA AND GRAFTON GET WHERE YOU NEED TO GO Angourie Beach

Yamba Shopping Fair Grafton Shopping World

GRAFTON

Jacaranda Festival

YAMBA

Yamba Town Centre

Plan your trip at busways.com.au using bus timetables, route map and ticket information.

Unlimited bus travel for $2.50 with the Regional Excursion Daily Ticket for eligible seniors and pensioners.

Grafton Base Hospital

BUSWAYS IS CELEBRATING 75 YEARS OF SERVICE

TELL US YOUR STORY We need your help to capture and share your moments that have helped to build and shape our company.

Do you have any positive memories, experiences or anecdotes that you’ve had whilst using a Busways service?

Email your story here:

75years@busways.com.au

Alex is 90 and still growing At Whiddon we believe in caring for the whole person. It means ensuring that the older people we support can still enjoy doing the things that matter to them: gardening, art, singing, even raising chooks. It helps people stay socially engaged, active and make the most of every day.

With 70 years experience, our award winning approach makes Whiddon a leader in residential and in-home aged care.

Casino • Kyogle • Grafton • Maclean • Tweed Heads whiddon.com.au 1300 738 388