GOODLIFE Magazine - Issue 1

Issue 01

The Keys to Ageless Style FIND OUT INSIDE

5 Healthy Habits YOU CAN START RIGHT NOW

The Road Less Travelled 3 DAY TRIPS YOU CAN PLAN NOW

GoodLife Issue 01

In this issue

28

Travelling Light

02

Kate Edwards speaks with Jenny Weire, a resident of The Central in Crace, on how she can always travel worry-free.

page 16

Positive Ageing Five good health habits you can start now.

page 02

20

08

Downsizing Your Home, Upsizing Your Lifestyle Baby Boomers are saying goodbye to family house and yard as they try apartment living on for size.

Comfort Zone

page 28

Explore the best places to eat, drink, explore and shop—all within 25 minutes drive of The Central in Crace.

page 20

24

The Road Less Travelled Escape the city for the weekend in favour of a road less travelled with three destinations catering to every budget, from luxe to less.

30

page 08

Home Free

The Key to Ageless Style

Meet Annette & Paul Harry who decided to swap tedious house maintenance for more time pursuing the things they love.

Staying in Touch With Loved Ones

We all have it—a sense of style. But how do you create a wardrobe that you love?

It comes down to three key factors...

page 12

page 24

page 30

Editor Sue Levy

Original Photography Martin Ollman

Hair Styling Canberra Makeup Academy

Associate Editor Kate Edwards

Contributors Catherine Carter; Kate Edwards; Emma Grey; Fiona Keary; Laura Peppas; Amanda Whitley;

Makeup Jacqui Scott

Created by Coordinate for Goodwin

Stylist Fiona Keary goodwin.org.au

coordinate.com.au

GoodLife by Goodwin Aged Care Services Limited. Advertising and Editorial Inquiries: Email marketing@goodwin.org.au Post 22 Marshall Street Farrer, ACT 2607.

GoodLife Issue 01

Welcome

W

elcome to The Good Life – a magazine dedicated to inspiring people who are 60+, to make the very most out of life.

Prioritising our health is so important, and yet it’s something that we can easily let slip. Whether it’s taking time out of our schedules to have a thorough health audit or pursuing a passion we’ve always longed to try, our feature story asks a panel of five experts for tips and advice on how we can improve our overall wellbeing.

Travel is always high on our list for increasing our enjoyment of life, but in A Road Less Travelled, we prove that you don’t have to go far (or spend much) for some wonderful experiences that are just a day trip away.

We look at some of the clever ways you can stay in touch with loved ones using simpleto-use technology. And one of Canberra’s most sought after stylists gives us some invaluable advice on how to find our “ageless style.”

So please enjoy our first edition of Good Life and if you have any feedback or suggestions for articles, I’d love to hear from you.

Sue Levy Chief Executive Officer, Goodwin

5 Good Habits For Health & Wellbeing Ageing is inevitable. But whilst it might prevent life from being what it was in your younger years, it certainly doesn’t have to stop you from leading a healthy and rewarding life.

Hear our Goodwin panel of experts provide essential advice on how you can improve your health and longevity and reduce your risk of physical and mental disability with some basic good habits.

by Kate Edwards

1.

The risk for certain medical conditions— including heart attack, stroke, dementia, diabetes, chronic pain and some types of cancer—increases with age, so it’s important to be proactive about your health. A comprehensive health audit is essential to monitor changes in your body and stay on top of any concerns.

For the best outcomes, make sure you book with a practice that specialises in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease and disability in older adults.

With an emphasis on a collaborative approach and an ambience more akin to a day spa the Goodwin Wellness Centre offers the services of a geriatrician, podiatrist, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, pharmacist, GP, nutritionist and two nurses under one roof, and provides health assessments for free for Goodwin clients.

“ A comprehensive health audit is essential to monitor changes in your body and stay on top of any concerns.”

Having been the Centre’s Nurse Practitioner since it was launched in 2014, Tamra Macleod has more than 18 years experience, and loves working closely with her clients towards achieving their wellness outcomes.

“Our approach is not to tell people what to do, but to empower them with the tools and support they need to age the way they want to,” she explains. “And

with access to our range of specialists, we really can work as a team to help our clients achieve their health goals.”

Health assessments are tailored to individual clients and can involve anything from organising a bone density scan and looking at pathology results to tailoring strengthening exercises for back pain. But a health audit should never be a one-off process.

“Once we’ve determined what our client’s goals are, we review their progress and continue to support them in achieving the best possible outcomes,” explains Tamra. “We’ll also refer them to relevant services should they need them—whether it’s an exercise class to help them improve their fitness or a specialist to address a particular health concern.”

With stress and depression linked to physical decline in seniors, Tamra points out that a health audit should cover off so much more than just the physical aspect of someone’s wellbeing.

“We’re all about achieving a better quality of life overall for our patients and will take a holistic approach, focusing on the mind as well as the body,” she explains. So if someone is experiencing depression over the loss of a loved one for instance, we might put them in touch with counselling services and friendship groups or teach them coping skills such as meditation. But as I said, we’ll always be guided by what it is our individual clients want, and then work out a program that will help them achieve their personal wellness goals.”

Health Audit Checklist A thorough health audit should encompass a range of assessments including:

· Blood pressure check · Cholesterol check · Weight, height and body mass index measurements · Medications review · Immunisation status · Physical, psychological and social assessment · Oral health and dentition · Nutrition status · Referrals to specialists if needed · Recommendations for community services if needed

03

2.

Making sure you are well nourished as you age is more important than ever to stay healthy and maintain energy levels.

Food choices need to incorporate essential vitamins, minerals and fibre—which can be a challenge if your appetite has decreased or you’re less able to buy and prepare healthy foods.

But Caroline Salisbury, an Accredited Practising Dietitian with more than 20 years experience in individualised nutrition advice and a regular spokesperson on ABC 666 radio believes that for most people, it’s just about making a few little changes to their diet, rather than anything drastic.

“ It’s just about making a few little changes to their diet, rather than anything drastic.”

“The 60+ are great clients to work with when it comes to improving dietary choices,” she says. “Being a bit more ‘grown up’, they are less prone to fad diets and are more open to ‘tweaking’ their normal routine to address any changes for improved health. Typically we look at adjusting portions for better blood glucose control, increasing fibre for digestion and improving their protein intake to maintain muscle mass and reduce falls risk.”

The biggest challenge for the 60+ age group she says is in trying to increase nutrients whilst decreasing volume—due to changes in appetite. But Caroline points out that this can also be an opportunity to let go of having to prepare the traditional “family” meals and embracing new, more convenient meal options.

“Smaller, nutrient rich meals are easy to add to your routine, especially after a lifetime of cooking family meals,” she says. “I’m a big advocate of including a 04

light “ploughman’s” dinner at least once a week with some delicious cheese, fresh oysters, some toasted sourdough, a side salad and perhaps a glass of wine. In that meal, you’ve got calcium for bone health, zinc for immune function and easy grain choices,” says Caroline. “In fact there are many convenient nutritious options such as omelettes with grated cheese and a side salad, a fresh lasagne with a prewashed salad or even canned soup with a fresh roll for a quick, easy option. You really don’t have to go to the effort of making a big cooked meal every night.”

Caroline stresses that everyone is different, which is why it’s important to get an individualised plan by an Accredited Practicing Dietitian if you can.

“While some clients may need to continue to be cautious of some choices such as highly salted foods, others might need that extra bit of salt to encourage their appetite,” she explains. “Some people need to focus on managing portions and appetites.

Others, who have followed a strictly low fat diet for most of their life, might need to add essential fats such as oils, nuts, cheese and even cream to ensure they’re getting the nutrients they need.

So it’s really important to get the right advice that’s tailored to your specific needs.”

Above all, Caroline stresses the importance of enjoying your food.

“Meal times should still be a pleasurable experience, regardless of what age you are,” she says. “So we’re very big on emphasising the social importance of sharing food and drink with others and making your meal times as stress-free, enjoyable and satisfying as possible.”

All Goodwin residents have access to Caroline’s services through the Goodwin Wellness Centre.

Suggested Meal Plan Breakfast Pre-soaked porridge made with milk for extra calcium (can easily be made in microwave) and topped with a handful of nuts such as crushed walnuts or almonds for heart health.

Lunch Two poached eggs on rye or wholemeal toast with a handful of salad and avocado sprinkled with sesame seeds. Add some spicy chutney for extra flavour.

Dinner Pan fried salmon with sweet potato mash, grated ginger and green beans.

Snacks Fruit with a tablespoon of yoghurt or Grain crackers with sliced fresh tomato.

Please note: This is a suggested meal plan only. We recommend that you discuss your individual needs with an accredited practising dietitian, your GP or specialist.

3.

As you grow older, an active lifestyle is more important than ever. Not only does regular exercise help boost energy, maintain your independence, and manage symptoms of illness or pain, it can even reverse some of the symptoms of ageing.

professional before starting any new exercise program. At the Goodwin Wellness Centre, we focus on our clients achieving a slow and steady progression of small goals that are not only physically beneficial, but mentally rewarding as well.”

“The age old saying ‘if you don't use it, you lose it’ is absolutely true,” agrees Matthew Politarhis a physiotherapist who has been working with the elderly for more than five years. “I am a big advocate for the active ageing approach and have seen first hand how people who are more physically active enjoy a much better quality of life as they age.”

Once people have added more movement and activity to their daily life, the benefits become quickly apparent.

Starting or maintaining a regular exercise routine can be a challenge for some people who are 60+ however.

You might feel discouraged by illness, ongoing health problems, or concerns about injuries or falls. Or perhaps you’ve never exercised before and think you're too old or frail to start. But just doing something that gets you moving is a good start, says Matthew, along with getting the right advice and support.

“Daily exercise can assist in maintaining and improving your functional abilities such as balance, muscular endurance/ strength and general cardiovascular health,” says Matthew. “This in turn reduces the risk of falls and can assist in minimising ailments associated with poor cardiovascular health.”

“ Many people might not realise that exercise is also incredibly beneficial for your mind.”

“In most cases any increase in physical activity is beneficial,” he says. “But everyone is different. That’s why it’s crucial to consult a relevant health

Many people might not realise that exercise is also incredibly beneficial for your mind. From helping you sleep better to boosting your mood and selfconfidence and relieving stress, studies have even shown that exercise can improve your memory. But you don’t

Stretch, stretch, stretch...

Benefits of Stretching

As we age, our muscles become shorter which can result in a decreased range of motion. So to ensure you can go about daily tasks such as getting in and out of bed and sweeping the floor easily, you need to stretch.

· Helps you remain active and independent

The best type of stretching is static stretching, which involves holding a stretch for 10 to 30 seconds or more. This is effective in lengthening your muscles and the surrounding tissue to help increase your range of motion. It’s recommended that you stretch at least 3 to 4 times a week and that you seek a tailored program to suit your specific needs.

· Creates better posture · Relieves tension in your muscles · Can prevent injury · Offsets the effects of flexibility decline

have to embark on a strenuous regime to reap the rewards. In fact enjoyment is key to sustaining an exercise program each day.

“I am a big advocate of walking,” says Matthew. “Not only does it incorporate your larger muscle groups and improve your cardiovascular system, but it’s also a great excuse to socialise and to get out of the house. ” “Exercise classes are also a great way to meet new people and get active within a supportive environment,” he adds. “Anything that involves socialising is always going to be a lot more motivating than if you were to do something on your own. So if you can join a group or participate in a regular class, you’re much more likely to commit to a regular schedule."

Matthew works for Wellness & Lifestyles Aged Care Services and is available for consultation for all Goodwin residents and clients through the Goodwin Wellness Centre.

Motivating Tips to Get Active: · Listen to your favourite music, audiobook or podcast while you workout · Try an organised exercise class to meet new people in a fun and social environment · Organise or join a group in a sport that interests you—such as tennis, hiking or cycling · Watch a favourite movie or TV show while on the treadmill

· Helps keep your muscles strong

· Instead of chatting with a friend over coffee, chat while walking

· Improves blood circulation

· Walk with your grandkids down to your local park

· Reduces symptoms of disease

· Find an exercise buddy and try new sporting activities together

4.

Humans are, by nature, social beings that prefer to live in groups with a high level of social interaction. No surprise then, that social contact can be just as effective as exercise in terms of improving your mood and quality of life. If you aren’t maintaining social interactions on a daily basis, you might also be putting yourself at risk of depression or even dementia.

However staying socially active can become harder as you age—especially if your circumstances change. You may lose a partner or a close friend, or find it harder to get around due to changing mobility needs.

“ People who move here can become involved with the social activities and programs that we have every day.”

“Another common scenario is when people move interstate to be with their children and grandchildren,” adds Fiona Nilsson, Independent Living Manager at The Central in Crace who has worked with Goodwin for more than 7 years.

“Often they're leaving behind long life friends and the thought of establishing new friends can be a bit confronting.”

Fiona also says that the loss of a partner, particularly for men, can lead to social isolation and loneliness.

“Women tend to be the ones who organise social interactions within couples,” notes Fiona. “So without their wives, a lot of men tend to retreat into their shell. They’re not as likely to go looking for social interaction as women in the same situation are.

But what does work, is getting them 06

involved in activities that lead to social connections—such as sporting activities or hobby groups.”

Fiona is also quick to point out that loneliness is not an inevitability of ageing and that there are lots of programs and services in Canberra to help people who find it difficult to maintain their social activities, stay connected.

“The challenge is to take advantage of the opportunities that exist,” says Fiona. “And I think that happens when people recognise how important social connection is for their overall health and happiness and are prepared to make changes to their lifestyles to make social interaction a priority.”

For many people, avoiding social isolation means a change to their living situation, which is why retirement communities have become so popular.

“The advantage of an apartment complex such as The Central is that we have an in-built community of likeminded people,” says Fiona. “So people who move here can become involved with the social activities and programs that we have every day and most of them end up forming friendship and activity groups of their own.”

Staying Connected If you’re feeling disconnected or isolated, there are plenty of ways to maintain contact with your friends and family, as well as making new connections. ∙ Volunteer. Support an organisation, learn new skills and meet new people. ∙ Go back to work. Even if you work part-time, you can keep your mind stimulated and connect with others on a regular basis. ∙ Join a club or group. From book clubs to hiking groups, there are plenty of opportunities to make new friends and share experiences with those who have similar interests. ∙ Take a class. There are many adult education centres in Canberra that offer a range of interesting courses and opportunities to interact with others. ∙ Join a gym. As well as keeping fit, you’ll also have the opportunity to stay social. ∙ Get involved with family. Offering to babysit your grandchildren or organising regular get togethers are just some ways you can maintain contact with your family. ∙ Learn new technology. From Facebook groups to online forums, there are now so many ways to stay in touch with family and friends and make connections with new people.

Finding New Pursuits If you’re unable to pursue your regular passions due to injury or illness or simply don’t have one, here are some ideas for new hobbies to inspire and motivate you:

· Photography · Woodworking · Going to or participating in flea markets · Scrapbooking · Joining a theatre group

5.

Research shows that retirees who pursue hobbies and activities that interest them are less likely to suffer from physical health problems or emotional issues such as depression— and the more active the hobby, the greater the chance of living a fuller, healthier and longer life.

Judith Zurvas, Activities Officer at The Central in Crace can attest to this.

“Absolutely,” she agrees. “The people who get involved in activities with a lot of social interaction, tend to be the ones that have less health issues and are generally happier overall.”

With a role that specialises in organising new and interesting activities for residents at The Central, Judith certainly has an enviable job.

“ We do a lot of visits to nearby wineries and we’ll always catch the latest exhibition or performance.”

“We have great fun,” she enthuses. “We do three trips a week. So this week we went to lunch in Pialligo, we’re going to Braidwood to see a concert and to an exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery. Sometimes we’ll organise shopping trips, we do a lot of visits to nearby wineries and we’ll always catch

· Sports such as swimming, cycling, hiking, tennis or golf · Competitive chess · Painting · Pottery and ceramics · Craft making · Scale modelling

the latest exhibition or performance that comes to town. We're really lucky here in Canberra as we have such a diverse range of options to choose from.”

· Learning or enhancing your computer skills

When she’s not driving people around to exciting events, Judith is organising activities within the Lifestyle Club, both day and night.

· Knitting or crocheting

“At the moment we’re conducting creative colour groups that experiment with water colours and colouring-in books—they’re very popular. We also have board game nights, a regular happy hour, croquet, mah-jong and craft groups. And we’re looking at doing yoga, meditation and swimming in the future.”

Outside of the activities organised

by The Central, most residents also pursue their own passions—often in conjunction with their neighbours.

“Even though people have left their big gardens, some residents have plots in the Crace community garden and come back with arms full of their own grown vegetables,” she observes. “One lady has even started a hydroponic system on her balcony and grows enough produce to sell at a market!”

“We’ve also got people who organise movie groups, book clubs, restaurant outings and theatre trips with each other,” she says. “So there is certainly never a shortage of things to do, or friends to do them with."

· Making a website regarding your hobby or interest · Needlework · Quilting · Jewellery making · Specialised cooking · Cake decorating · Gardening—perhaps a specialty such as roses or exotic plants · Flower pressing · Sewing · Journalism—try submitting articles for newspapers, magazines or organisations · Creative writing—perhaps your memoirs or a novel · Write and/or illustrate a children’s book · Dancing · Singing · Playing musical instruments · Floral arranging · Bird watching · Fishing · Card games · Beer making · Public speaking · Become a wedding celebrant · Learning another language —and taking a trip!

The Road Less Travelled Escape the city for the weekend in favour of a road less travelled.

These three destinations are all within a two hour drive from Canberra with activities catering to every budget, from luxe to less.

by Laura Peppas

Trail 1: Yass Budget: Less

Take a day trip to Yass Valley, just a 45-minute drive from Canberra. With a proud heritage connection to early rural Australia and a well renowned food and wine scene, it’s a hidden gem right on our doorstep.

— 10am

Yass Farmers Market Start your day with some retail therapy at the Yass Farmers Market. With over 35 stalls, you’re bound to discover a new favourite among the abundant local produce, arts and crafts. Held on the first and third Saturday of each month, the markets boast local wines, beautiful jams, delicious sauces, baked goods, great coffee and juices, as well as locally grown vegetables and plants. Make sure you have plenty of room in your boot!

ROLLONIN CAFÉ

Open Saturday 10am – 1pm (1st & 3rd of the month).

Yass Markets, St Augustine’s Hall and grounds, Meehan St, Yass.

YASS FARMERS MARKET

08

SNOW Y MOUNTAINS

Trail 2: Snowy Mountains Budget: Medium

Located just under two hours from Canberra, Jindabyne and Lake Crackenback provide a great base for exploring the Snowy Mountains region.

—

Day 1

11:30am

3pm

The Crisp Galleries

Mayfield Mews

Set in a magical three-hectares of purpose-designed garden “rooms", The Crisp Galleries are sure to enchant all visitors, not just the avid gardener. Over 15 years in the making, the gardens contain wonderful surprises around every corner. There is also a gallery, working studio, a gift shop with a selection of giftware and gourmet food gifts and a nursery hosting an extensive collection of geraniums and pelargoniums.

Walk in the footsteps of Henry Lawson at this historic precinct, now home to Mayfield Mews. With the old coach house next door, the stables from the mews harbour a unique shopping experience where you can enjoy a coffee among a broad range of local art. The garden centre sources regional plants and seedlings hardened to local conditions along with rustic garden décor by regional artists.

Once you arrive at Jindabyne, start with lunch at the Wildbrumby Schnapps Distillery. Renowned for its award winning schnapps, Austrian inspired food and contemporary art, Wildbrumby Schnapps Distillery is situated right in the heart of the Australian high country.

Fresh local produce complements the daily menu along with an extensive range of authentic schnapps.

Open Friday to Monday 10am – 5pm.

Open Wednesday to Sunday 10am – 4pm.

Open daily from 10am – 5pm.

Gap Range, Hume Highway (14kms south of Yass Service Centre), Bowning.

4 Leake Street, Bowning.

Corner of Wollondibby Road & Alpine Way, Jindabyne.

02 6227 6073 crispaustralia.com 1pm

Rollonin Café

02 6227 6572 mayfieldmews.com.au 6pm

Terracotta on Fire Restaurant

Open Thursday to Monday 8:30am – 4pm.

Finish your day trip with dinner at the Terracotta on Fire Restaurant, at the Australian Hotel. The first part of the hotel was built in 1863 by exconvict John Martin and named the Hibernian Hotel. Extended in 1881 and renamed the Australian Hotel, it houses Terracotta on Fire, renowned for its large, delicious meals.

144 Bowning Road, Bowning.

180 Comur Street, Yass.

02 6227 6507 rollonincafe.net

02 6226 6303

This heritage slab hut of the Rollonin Café is hand built and adorned with newspaper walls and hessian ceiling. Sit back and relax with lunch accompanied by a world famous Illy coffee or Devonshire Tea, served by passionate staff adorned in clothing from yesteryear.

12pm

Wildbrumby Schnapps Distillery

02 6257 1447 wildbrumby.com.au 2pm

Snowy Region Visitors Centre Uncover all that the Snowy Region has to offer with a trip to the Snowy Region Visitors Centre. This is the perfect spot to find out more about the region's landscape, history, Aboriginal heritage and wildlife. There’s also a small gallery with local art exhibitions, a cafe for refreshments and cinema, all next door to Kosciuszko National Park.

Kosciuszko Road, Jindabyne.

02 6450 5600 09

L AKE CR ACKENBACK

4pm

Stay

Lake Jindabyne Heli Fun

Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa

Looking to see Jindabyne and the Snowy Mountains from a different perspective? Try the Lake Jindabyne Heli Fun flights on offer. One of the options includes a 10-minute helicopter tour of Lake Jindabyne, allowing you to feel the thrill of helicopter flight and see some amazing sights without blowing the budget.

After your meal, retreat to the adjoining hotel, the Lake Crackenback Resort and Spa. Offering apartments and chalets, a general store, ski hire and a courtesy bus to and from the Skitube Alpine Railway during winter, the resort provides the perfect base for your stay. Once you've had a good night's rest, head back to Cuisine for their sumptuous buffet breakfast.

Tours run on select weekends and peak periods.

go for a walk around the grounds with one of the experienced hatchery staff.

There's also traditional wood smoked trout for sale which is grown, smoked and packed by Snowy Mountains Trout in Tumut.

Visitors’ Centre open daily 10am – 4pm.

Guided tours of the hatchery are conducted at 10am and 2pm daily.

224 Gaden Road, Jindabyne. dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/info/gaden

1650 Alpine Way, Crackenback.

1pm

02 8091 1206 helifun.com.au

1800 020 524 lakecrackenback.com.au

Snowy Vineyard & Microbrewery

7pm

—

Cuisine Restaurant

Day 2

Enjoy the tranquil views of Lake Crackenback—just a 10 minute drive from Jindabyne—and the surrounding mountains at this award-winning fine-dining restaurant, specialising in modern Australian food with a European twist. There's even a lounge bar for a pre-dinner drink by the fire.

11am

Open Wednesday to Saturday from 6pm (bar opens from 5pm).

1650 Alpine Way, Crackenback.

1800 020 524 lakecrackenback.com.au

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Gaden Trout Hatchery About 10km west of Jindabyne is the Gaden Trout Hatchery, one of Australia’s main centres for breeding and rearing cold water sport fish including rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout, and Atlantic salmon. Visitors can watch or partake in feeding big fish that come to the surface in some of the hatchery’s brood stock ponds, watch a 10-minute introduction video that outlines the hatchery’s purpose and operations or

Located on the banks of the Snowy River, the Snowy Vineyard and Microbrewery has been a tourism icon since the early 1980s. Finish your trip enjoying the ambience of the indoor and outdoor restaurant, open for brunch, lunch and beer and wine tastings.

Open Wednesday to Sunday 10am – 5pm.

255 Werralong Rd, Dalgety.

1800 020 524 snowywine.com.au

Trail 3: Bowral Budget: Luxe

A two hour drive from Canberra, Bowral has always been a fashionable holiday destination with its stunning gardens, grand old estates, trendy cafes and shopping experiences.

—

Day 1 10am

Elephant Boy Café Once you get to town, stretch your legs and grab a coffee at Bowral's famous Elephant Boy Café. With old books lining the shelves, flat screen TVs flickering images of pre WWII newsreels and director's chairs, this spot is a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike.

Open Monday to Thursday from 8am – 5pm and Friday to Sunday 8am – 5:30pm.

02 4861 1393 elephantboycafe.com 11am

Dirty Janes Emporium & Antique Market Bowral's only permanent antique market, Dirty Janes, offers the very best in vintage, incorporating antique furniture, lighting, a clothing salon and quality preloved home furnishings. The bi monthly antique market now has over 50 dealers offering garden ware, furnishings, ornaments, paintings and jewellery decorator items. All shopped out? The venue's new Tea Salon offers shoppers a place to relax with a cuppa.

visiting the Donald Bradman Museum.

Live cricket footage from around the world, touch screen kiosks, interactive displays, fascinating memorabilia and a contemporary art gallery are just a few of the exhibits on offer.

Open daily from 10am – 5pm.

St Jude Street, Bowral.

02 4862 1247 bradman.com Stay

Milton on the Park Set amongst internationally renowned gardens, this five star luxury hotel includes a wellness spa, tennis courts, a lap pool and three award winning restaurants, so be sure to book in for dinner. The heart of the hotel is a grand mansion, built at the turn of the 20th century. The estate offers breathtaking views to the horizon in every direction over gardens that are arguably Australia’s finest. If you're in need of some pampering, book yourself in for a massage to end the day on a high.

02 4861 8100 miltonpark.com.au

—

Day 2 11am

Corbett Gardens After enjoying the buffet breakfast on offer at the hotel, head to the Corbett Gardens, one of Bowral's oldest and most beautiful parks. Located in the centre of town, the public gardens are a kaleidoscope of tulips and colourful springtime bulbs, shrubs and trees.

Entry to the garden is free of charge at most times, however, an entry fee applies during the Tulip Time Festival (13 – 25 September).

Wingecarribee Street, Bowral.

02 4868 0888 1pm

Centennial Vineyards A visit to the Centennial Vineyards is the perfect finish to your trip. After tasting quality cool-climate wines in their stateof-the-art winery, enjoy a relaxed lunch in the vineyard's restaurant. In summer, the restaurant's glass doors open onto a spacious Australian verandah, while in winter the enormous fireplace creates a cosy and rustic appeal.

Open daily from 10am – 5pm.

Centennial Road, Bowral.

02 4861 8701 centennial.net.au

The Emporium & Antique Market open daily from 10am – 5pm.

Your Vintage Occasion Tea Salon, located in the market is open daily 10am – 4pm. dirtyjanes.com 3pm

Donald Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame Whether you're a cricket tragic or not, a trip to Bowral isn't quite complete without

MILTON ON THE PARK PROVIDES A REL A XED ATMOSPHERE

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Home Free Words by Kate Edwards Photography by Martin Ollman

Having lived in their family home for 47 years, Annette and Paul Harry decided to swap tedious house maintenance for more time pursuing the things they love. And, as they tell Kate Edwards, they’ve never looked back.

PAUL AND ANNET TE’S ST YLISH NEW APARTMENT EASILY ACCOMMODATES THEIR FAMILY HOME FURNITURE, WITH PLENT Y OF ROOM FOR THEIR INTERSTATE VISITORS.

“Nettie and Paul” as their grandchildren call them, are busy today. After going for their regular bike ride in the morning, ending with a coffee at their local café, they’re now in the post school rush.

“Nettie” is preparing afternoon snacks in her plush kitchen for grandkids Josh and Ellie, while Paul has just returned from picking up their eldest grandchild, Dharma, from school. Then they’re off to the local park to search for lizards and play on the swings, before returning home for dinner.

“We ride with our cycling group on Mondays and Tuesdays,” adds Paul.

“Annette goes walking with some of the girls from The Central in the mornings and I play golf with my golfing buddies— golf always has precedence,” he says smiling. “And I’d like to point out that at 73, I still have a handicap of 18!”

And when they’re not being physically active or spending quality time with their grandchildren, the couple have an engaging social life.

“There’s a group of us here who regularly go to the movies and the theatre,” explains Annette. “And there are some great restaurants in Gungahlin that we’re always wanting to try.”

“But we don’t even have to go out to socialise,” adds Paul, “For example last night we just rang one of our neighbours to see if she wanted to join us in the Lifestyle Club to have a wine and do the jigsaw puzzle.”

But it seems that Paul and Annette Harry are busy everyday. Only where their time was once filled with mowing lawns and cleaning rooms they never used, now they are choosing to spend it doing exactly what they want.

“Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays we pick up our grandchildren from school and they sleepover every Friday night,” explains Annette of their new routine.

“I’m also doing volunteer work at the Botanical Gardens and I occasionally go on weekend walks with Walking for Pleasure—a group that I used to run.”

ANNET TE AND PAUL WITH THEIR GR ANDCHILDREN

The decision to leave their longstanding family home in the suburbs for the vibrant urban village of Crace was, surprisingly, not a hard one to make for the couple.

“The garden was really getting too much,” explains Annette. “And there were just endless maintenance jobs to do, fixing the roof, or painting…”

“And when we looked into options for apartments and downsizing, The Central was a no-brainer for us,” says Paul.

“In fact from the moment we got here, it felt like home.

And there’s no better way to confirm that you’ve made the right decision than that.”

For many, the thought of moving after staying in one place for 47 years, would be overwhelming. But Goodwin’s relocation assistance relieved Annette and Paul of the usual stresses associated with a major relocation.

“A fantastic lady came to our home and arranged everything for us,” says Annette.

“She organised for all our furniture and items to be packed and unpacked and we really didn’t have to worry about anything.”

Another bonus for Annette and Paul was the fact that they could fit all their furniture from their four bedroom plus study home into their spacious three bedroom apartment.

“Take this dining room table,” says Paul.

“In our old home, we used to have to manoeuvre around it awkwardly, but here it just works so much better.”

TIME WITH GR ANDCHILDREN KEEPS THE COUPLE BUSY

14

“And we’ve had just as many visitors as we used to,” adds Annette.

“Just this last Christmas we had eight people sleeping under our roof and everyone was very comfortable. Because our apartment is so well designed with our spare bedrooms and bathroom at one end of the home, it was fine.”

The future-proofing features such as hand rails, higher toilets and wider doorways also became essential for Annette when she had her hip operation, shortly after moving in.

“ Their time was once filled with mowing lawns and cleaning rooms they never used, now they are choosing to spend it doing exactly what they want.”

ANNET TE AND PAUL ENJOY THE WARM WEATHER ON THEIR SPACIOUS BALCONY

“It just meant that I was able to come home and look after myself well after only a few days in hospital,” says Annette.

“Everything is on one level and we have secure lifts that take us straight to our car in the basement.”

“The security aspect was also very important to us,” adds Paul. “If I go away on a golfing trip for a few days, I know that Annette is safe, secure and with plenty of people around her to keep her company.”

Recently the couple went to Lord Howe Island for a holiday and really appreciated the “lock it and leave” convenience that The Central gives them.

“Management will collect our mail and our friends will water our plants,” says Paul. “When people are travelling, we’ll drive them to the bus station or airport and they’ll do the same for us—we really do have a good community of people living here.”

Whilst the couple are extremely active and independent now, they are also comforted by the fact that as their mobility needs change, they can still enjoy the activities they love, within a community of people they know.

“It was so important for us to move in here sooner rather than later,” notes Paul.

“Right now we’re fit and capable and are able to take full advantage of the lifestyle that’s on offer. And we’ll continue to enjoy a great quality of life. This is our home now and it’s been an absolute Godsend.”

But for now, they’re busy with other plans. In a few days time, Annette’s cousin is due to stay with them and they’re planning to take her to the latest blockbuster exhibition at the National Gallery, some of their local restaurants and do some walking.

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Travelling Light Words by Kate Edwards Photography by Martin Ollman

As a travel program leader, Jenny Weire might have to jet off to some exotic location with just a couple of week’s notice. But as a resident of The Central in Crace, she can always travel worry-free, knowing that her beautiful apartment will be just as she left it when she returns—with plants watered, mail collected and a group of friends eager to hear all about her adventures.

“I’ve led groups, where people can be aged in their 80s and they’re healthy, fit and really switched on and engaged with our tour. So really if you want to travel—or do anything in life—age shouldn’t stop you.”

“I’ve just been organising my South American visa,” explains Jenny as she opens the door to her stylish one bedroom apartment. “I leave in a couple of weeks, so I’m getting everything ready.”

As a program leader for Odyssey travel, Jenny is about to embark on a “South America adventure” with her itinerary taking in Chile, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, and Brazil. Then she’ll be back for a couple of months before heading off to lead a “Ballet lovers” tour through Europe.

“Many, many years ago I did work as an air hostess,” laughs Jenny. “But I never expected to be working in the travel industry now.”

It was while working as an air hostess that Jenny met her husband—a steward with Alitalia—and spent 23 years living in Italy, before returning to Canberra with her two children. Having worked with the UN in Rome, the public service was quick to snap her up, and she continued to work for several years. But a year before her retirement, fate was to change the course of her life.

“I took a wonderful trip exploring food and wine in the various regions of France,” explains Jenny. “And while I was on it, I became good friends with the program leader who said to me, ‘you know you should be doing this.’ So she put my name forward to Odyssey travel and because of my ability to speak Italian, they took me on.”

The tours that Jenny leads are usually on specialised interests and are made up of a small number of people aged around 50 plus, so Jenny knows first hand that age is no indicator of an ability to travel.

“I’ve led groups, where people can be aged in their 80s and they’re healthy, fit and really switched on and engaged with our tour," states Jenny. "So really if you want to travel—or do anything in life—age shouldn’t stop you.”

For Jenny, leaving her Canberra home of 16 years and moving to The Central was an obvious choice—particularly with her newfound travel career.

“I couldn’t keep relying on the neighbours to look after my place while I was away,” she says. “And I certainly

FROM MOROCCO TO BR A ZIL, JENNY LEADS OVERSEAS TOURS SEVER AL TIMES A YEAR

JENNY LEADING A WALKING TOUR THROUGH DARTMOOR IN THE UK

PREPARING FOR HER UPCOMING SOUTH AMERICA TOUR

“ While I was travelling, they [Goodwin] had all my new furniture moved in and all my things unpacked. I left one home and returned to another.”

to her maintenance-free lifestyle, also moved in! And when she’s not jet setting around the world, she leads an extremely busy social life.

“There are a few of us who go for walks some mornings, I do the exercise classes here and we have a group that goes to the theatre and dinner regularly. And I’m a real movie buff,” she adds. “So I’m going to be seeing quite a few movies at the French film festival that’s on at the moment.”

She also spends time with her grandchildren who love to come and visit.

didn’t want to spend my time looking after a home with three bedrooms that I never used.”

“ I couldn’t keep relying on the neighbours to look after my place while I was away—and I certainly didn’t want to spend my time looking after a home with three bedrooms that I never used.”

But as is typical of her new and exciting lifestyle, Jenny was asked to do a trip at the same time she was scheduled to move into her new home at The Central. And it’s then that she got her first insight into the convenience of her new life.

“Goodwin did everything for me,” she marvels. “So while I was travelling through Spain, Portugal and Morocco, they had all my new furniture moved in and all my things unpacked. I left one home and returned to another.”

Jenny not only made new friends with her neighbours, but some of her existing friends, who were attracted

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“I’ll pick them up from school occasionally, or they’ll come over here for the night,” she says. “And because there are a few of us here with grandchildren of similar ages, it works out really well.”

And whilst Jenny doesn’t fully participate in the weekly activities organised at The Central at the moment, she is looking forward to being able to enjoy her rich and full life into the future.

“It’s nice to know that when I’m not able to drive myself around anymore, I can participate in activities such as going to the National Gallery or out for lunch,” she says. “I want to be able to carry on doing the things I love with the people I like, and here at The Central, I can.”

TAKE AN EXCLUSIVE TOUR Enjoy complimentary morning tea every Friday at 10am.

Enjoy complimentary tea, coee and a range of sweet and savoury delights in our stylish Lifestyle Clubhouse lounge, followed by an exclusive tour of our superbly designed precinct including its beautiful landscaped gardens, shared facilities and, of course, our stunning and sophisticated residences.

You’re also welcome to take a tour at any time Monday to Friday between 9am and 4:30pm by making an appointment with our sales team.

Please call 6175 5057 or email thecentral@goodwin.org.au

CENTRALBYGOODWIN.ORG.AU 19

Comfort Zone Explore the best places to eat, drink, explore, shop and spoil yourself—all within 25 minutes drive of The Central in Crace.

by Amanda Whitley

Eat The Drawing Room

The Green Herring

A café and restaurant right downstairs from The Central. You can’t get more convenient than that! In the sixteenth century, withdrawing rooms were used to entertain guests in a relaxed and welcoming setting. The Drawing Room in Crace has based their warm, vibrant café on this concept and offers a fresh and diverse menu with a focus on delicious, wholesome ingredients.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, it’s perfect for all ages—there’s even a ‘play room’ for little ones!

For modern Australian dining in a character-filled space, it’s hard to go past The Green Herring in Gungahlin’s historic Ginninderra Village. The restaurant is housed in one of Canberra’s oldest buildings, a 150 year old slab hut, and has serious character and charm.

The meals are famously filling, but make sure you leave room for dessert—they’re the pièce de résistance. Think chocolate and bailey’s spring rolls with peppermint ice cream and coffee dipping sauce!

Corner of Abena Avenue and Galore Street, Crace.

02 6174 4695 thedrawingroomcrace.com.au

The District The District is Crace’s ‘local’—a popular spot for a tasty pub-style meal and tap beer (James Squire The Chancer and White Rabbit Dark Ale to name just two) or a quiet wine. There are all the usual suspects—pizza, steak, pasta, fish and chips—and the space is inviting, with industrial lighting, exposed bricks and rough timber offset by a colourful panelled wall and banquette.

56 Abena Avenue, Crace.

ADORE TEA

Ginninderra Village, O’Hanlon Place, Nicholls.

02 6230 2657 thegreenherring.com.au

Robyn Rowe’s Chocolate d’Or Just down the road in Murrumbateman, some of Canberra’s finest chocolates are made in a humble shed next to a dam. At Robyn Rowe’s Chocolate d’Or you can immerse yourself in all things chocolate and learn how they’re made.

Try to resist trying one of every variety as you enjoy a chocolate drink, coffee or tea.

1153 Nanima Road, Murrumbateman.

02 6227 5064 robynrowechocolates.com.au

02 6174 3147 thedidstrict.com.au

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Drink Adore Tea

Wins Creek Meadery

Coffee may be the current craze, but it’s all about tea at Adore Tea—they sell and serve over 300 blends of loose leaf! Sample fruity sweet teas, woody spices and medicinal blends, alongside homemade scones with jam and cream.

If you’re a fan of high tea, it’s served every Saturday at 11:30am and 2pm— but be sure to book, tables go quickly.

For something a little different, take a trip to Murrumbateman and visit Wins Creek Meadery. As well as producing honey, they also produce a number of different types of mead, or honey wine, as well as hand-crushed apple cider, ginger beer and root beer. Local free range-based meals and platters are on offer to pair with the mead.

Federation Square, O’Hanlon Place, Nicholls.

Barton Highway, Murrumbateman.

02 6230 9962 adoretea.com.au

02 6227 5600 winscreek.com.au WINS CREEK M E A D E RY

Shop Flight of Fancy

Geranium House Day Spa

Trove

Flight of Fancy has been a go-to for

It’s just 20 minutes by car from The Central but you could be another world away. Set on a private and peaceful 135 acres with stunning views of the Brindabella mountains, Geranium House is an award winning day spa specialising in pampering packages and para-medical skin care. Treatments include spa packages, aromatherapy massage, facials, light therapy, and hydrotherapy treatments.

Trove Canberra is a treasure chest of handmade gems—from jewellery to homewares, clothing to art. Everything you find inside is the produce of a local artist or designer.

beautiful things for nearly 25 years, stocking gifts and decorator pieces such as Art Deco and leadlight lamps, framed prints, furniture, jewellery, toiletries and accessories. You’ll love spending time browsing the pieces here.

Federation Square, O’Hanlon Place, Nicholls.

02 6230 2712 flightoffancyinternational.com.au

Geranium House Day Spa, 154 Fairview Road, Springrange.

02 6230 9220 geraniumhouse.com.au

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Gold Creek Square, O’Hanlon Place, Gungahlin. trovecanberra.wordpress.com

Explore Cockington Green

Canberra Walk In Aviary

Mulligans Flat

If you haven’t explored the world in miniature since you were young, it’s time to revisit Cockington Green gardens—the detailed replicas of buildings such as Scotland's Braemer Castle, the Ukraine's St Andrew's Church, and the Chateau De Ruit from Mauritius are simply delightful. Picnic in the grounds or enjoy the café.

Walk among nearly 400 beautiful birds in the Canberra Walk In Aviary—you can observe, photograph and feed the friendly free flying birds as they zoom about the large planted aviary.

This is your chance to get up close and personal with nearly 50 different species from Australia and around the world.

Federation Square, O’Hanlon Place, Nicholls.

It’s one of the ACT’s best bird watching sites and it’s just 10 minutes drive from The Central. The area is also rich in frogs, reptiles, invertebrates and mammals and includes many rare and uncommon species such as rednecked and swamp wallabies, sugar gliders, black shingle-backed lizards, regent honey-eaters, and the spotted burrowing frog.

02 6230 2044 canberrawalkinaviary.com.au

Gundaroo Road & ACT Border, off Mulligans Flat Road, Gungahlin.

Gold Creek Village, Gold Creek Road, Nicholls.

1800 627 273 cockingtongreen.com.au

Gold Creek Station Share a day in the life of a farming family at Gold Creek Station—a 1500acre merino sheep and beef cattle farm. Watch Australian Kelpie dogs work merino sheep, see sheep shearing demonstrations, and hear informative talks on the Australian wool industry.

Round out the morning with a hearty barbeque lunch to truly immerse yourself in this friendly rural experience.

Victoria Street, Hall.

02 6227 6586 gold-creek.com.au

Aarwun Gallery

13 22 81 mulligansflat.org.au

Aarwun Gallery is an eclectic gallery with paintings and works from some of Australia’s leading artists, including Ken Knight, Pro Hart, Tracey Crighton, Susie Sierra and Jim Van Geet. It also features a diverse range of glassworks, ceramics, woodwork, stone and bronze. The gallery changes exhibitions of leading and local artists on a regular basis.

Federation Square, O’Hanlon Place, Nicholls.

02 6230 2055 aarwungallery.com

MULLIGANS FL AT

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Staying in Touch With Loved Ones From watching videos, sharing pictures and having face-to-face conversations with people in different continents, there are some remarkable tools available to us that have revolutionised the way we connect with our families and friends.

All you need is a basic understanding of how computers and devices work and access to an internet connection, and then, the world really is your oyster.

Here is a snapshot of the basic ways you can stay connected.

by Kate Edwards

Email Email (short for electronic mail) is a fast and convenient way to communicate with others. Not only can you send and receive messages, but you can also attach almost any type of file, including documents, pictures, and music.

If you haven’t already got an email address set up, you can set one up for free. The most popular free email services are Gmail, Outlook and Yahoo mail. When you’ve set up your free email account, you can automatically switch between your computer and mobile devices and access your emails wherever you are.

Make sure your email account has an encryption service to keep your mail secure. This is especially important if you are you using public Wi-Fi. gmail.com live.com (Outlook) yahoo.com.au

Some safety tips: Whilst tales of online fraud and identity theft might put you off, there are some basic safety tips you can follow to protect yourself. · Use caution in giving out your email address. · Don’t share passwords. · Never share personal information such as bank account details through email. · Don’t fall for email scams. If you don’t know the sender, use extreme caution.

If it looks like your bank but doesn’t sound like your bank, ignore! · Install software to protect you from viruses, spyware, and objectionable online content. · Be cautious with opening email attachments—especially from people you don’t know.

Email Advantages · It’s free! However you will need to pay for an internet connection or have internet access (some places such as coffee shops, offer free Wi-Fi internet access). And when you’re shopping around for an internet plan, don’t forget to ask for senior discounts. · It’s instant! Messages are sent and received within seconds. · It’s convenient. You can send and receive messages any time of day or night.

· Create safe email aliases and usernames.

Facebook If you want to keep up with the achievements of your grandchildren, rediscover long lost friends or join a special interest group, Facebook is a fantastic tool to stay in touch. Not surprising then, that since its launch in 2004, senior citizens have become the fastest growing demographic on this popular social network platform.

Creating a Facebook account is free.

How does it work?

Facebook allows you to send messages, share your latest thoughts or activities, and share photos, links and videos with your friends and family. However unlike email, which is relatively private, the things you share on Facebook are more public. Whilst you can limit who can see the things you share, using the Facebook privacy tools, Facebook is designed to be more open and social than traditional communication tools.

Creating a Facebook account Creating a Facebook account is free—all you need is an email address and a few spare minutes. Just go to facebook.com in your web browser and follow the simple prompts to create an account, find friends and start sharing. facebook.com 25

Facebook Terminology Notification Whenever someone interacts with you on Facebook—whether it’s adding you as a friend, liking or commenting on something you've shared, or sending you a private message—you can receive a notification in an email message and on your Home page.

Status Update A status update is a short, textbased message that you broadcast on Facebook—otherwise known as a “post”. You usually accompany it with a photo, but you can also link it to videos and links to anything you like. Your friends will be able to see your posts when they log in to Facebook, and the things you share will also be posted to your Timeline.

Friend When you find people you know on Facebook, you can invite them to become a Friend. Friends can see the things you share, such as status updates or photos, as well as view your profile information.

Timeline Also known as your profile page, the Timeline consists of your profile picture, basic information about yourself as well as all the things you’ve posted on Facebook, in order of the date/time. It’s like a snapshot of your life!

Facebook Tips · Be sure to review your privacy settings so that you can limit who can view your profile. · By fully completing the About page and filling in details such as education and employment history you can make it easier for other people from your past to get in touch with you. · Don’t accept Friend requests from people you don’t know and never give out personal information—such as finance details—on Facebook.

News Feed The screen that shows the posts of your Friends plus businesses and organisations that you have Liked. Your Friends will see your Posts in their News Feed.

Like Whenever your friends post something on Facebook, you can choose to like their post. This is just a simple way of showing your friends that you enjoyed what they put up. When you like the Facebook page of your favourite businesses and organisations, you’ll automatically receive updates from them in your News Feed.

Tag Friends can tag you in photos and posts they share on Facebook. For example, if you’ve been at a group dinner and someone takes a photo of you all, they can post it on Facebook and tag everyone who was in the photo—so that you all get a copy, and so that your friends and family can also view it. Posts you're tagged in will also appear on your Timeline.

Comment Whenever your friends share on Facebook, you can leave a comment about their posts.

Facebook Advantages · It’s an easy way to reconnect with long lost friends. Just search for the name of the person you’d like to get in touch with, and see what happens! · You can narrow the generation gap by keeping in touch with family members who use Facebook all the time. · Some people prefer Facebook to email as it means you don’t have to remember someone’s email address if you want to get in touch. · You can get access to free deals and specials from your favourite companies and brands when you like their Facebook page. · You can play games on Facebook with friends and family! · You can join Facebook communities with people who share your interests such as walking groups or craft clubs. · It’s a great way to collect memories—they’re all there on your Timeline.

Make free video calls from anywhere in the world with an Internet connection.

Video Calls Video calls have transformed the ways that families stay in touch, making it easy to make free video calls from anywhere in the world with an Internet connection. The two most popular technologies are Skype and Facetime.

Skype By using the video feature of Skype, along with a webcam and a technology called VoiP (Voice over internet Protocol), you can make video calls to your friends and family all over the world. You can also use Skype to make free international phone calls to other Skype users. If you call landlines or mobile phones, you still get low rates for your calls using credits that you purchase.

Skype comes preinstalled by manufacturers on some computers and mobile devices and is compatible with most platforms and devices including Mac, Windows, Android and iPhone.

If you don’t have Skype preinstalled, it’s easy to download from your web browser. Just go to skype.com/en and follow their simple steps to install on your computer or device.

Facetime Facetime is Apple's voice over IP (VoIP) calling service. It allows anyone with a recent iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, or Mac to make free video or audio calls to any other Apple user over Wi-Fi or cellular connection. On all devices, FaceTime can connect to any Apple registered iPhone phone number or email address—making it perfect to keep in touch with family wherever you are.

Facetime is automatically activated as part of the overall setup process you go through the first time you turn on a new iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, or Mac. apple.com/au/mac/facetime

Video Call Advantages · The delight of being able to see your loved ones, especially distant grandchildren who change so quickly. · Video calls from mobile devices mean you can show great places you visit while you’re there, or make a quick call no matter where you are. · Free to use (costs of internet connection only). · Internet based international calls mean no requirement for international roaming setup as per telephones.

Most new computers and devices have a built-in webcam. skype.com/en 27

Downsizing your home, upsizing your lifestyle.

The kids have moved out, the mortgage is paid off, and the big garden is becoming a bit of a burden. But rather than sit in an empty nest, Baby Boomers are saying goodbye to family house and yard as they try apartment living on for size.

by Catherine Carter

The Baby Boomer generation is turning 70 from 2016, ushering in what we can expect will be two decades of rapid growth in Australia’s senior population.

And as they age, Boomers are likely to oust young urbanites as the main driver of growth in apartment construction.

But forget cramped bedsits and stuffy boxes. Instead, think private foyers with support staff trained in first aid.

Picture apartments with plenty of space to hang fine art, large balconies and architect-designed kitchens, quality appliances and communal lounge/bar areas.

Imagine developments that feature wellness centres and yoga classes, wellstocked libraries and business areas with free Wi-Fi, and play equipment for the grandkids.

Envisage access to care services and chauffeured group day trips thrown in for good measure.

Just as the Baby Boomers embraced the Great Australian Dream with gusto, now they are reinventing that dream by prioritising social, recreational and lifestyle needs. The result is a new way of living.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics’ Family and Household Projections 28

report forecasts that the number of empty-nester households in Australia will grow by 14 per cent by 2021.

Retirees already occupy around a third of all our medium-density housing—and they are rapidly demanding more from that housing than ever before.

“ It allows you to live completely independently while accessing the benefits.”

A 2012 report prepared by the University of NSW for the National Housing Supply Council identified six distinct categories of retirees and their accommodation needs: 1. Age in place: Retirees that want to keep living in the family home.

2. Local adaptors: Those considering moving out of their current home, but who want to live in the same area.

3. S cene changers: Those looking to move to a home with greater amenity or lifestyle.

4. Constrained retreat: People who want to remain in their current home, or stay within their local area, but who

are forced to make some compromises due to financial constraints.

5. I ncreased dependency: Those who want to remain in their current home, but must make housing or location compromises due to deteriorating health.

6. O lder renters: Retirees who do not own their own home, and who live in rental accommodation.

Apartment living appeals to many of these groups. For many people who no longer wish to be burdened with endless domestic chores and high maintenance gardens, the ‘lock it and leave’ lifestyle enables them to travel, spend time with family, contribute to their community or just relax and enjoy life.

“ Embrace an active lifestyle and enjoy amenities more likely to be found in a five-star hotel.”

For others, leaving behind the suburb they love is unappealing. Ageing in place isn’t about staying in the family home, but within the community they know and love. For these people, an

apartment development in their own suburb or in their family’s suburb is the perfect solution.

For others still, the chance to reinvent their life doesn’t require a tree or sea change. Instead, the bright lights and buzz of the city is an opportunity to shake things up, embrace an active lifestyle and enjoy amenities more likely to be found in a five-star hotel than a retirement village.

Ultimately, Baby Boomers aren’t just looking to downsize their family home; they also want to upsize their lifestyles.

Independent Living and How It Works What is independent living?

Independent Living means you have your own architecturally designed, selfcontained home, whilst having access to services, facilities and a community

of like-minded people that a regular apartment complex wouldn’t offer.

Independent Living is what you find in “retirement villages” or “lifestyle villages”, which can be made up of villas, units or modern apartments.

Is there an age requirement?

Vastly different to “aged care” or “nursing homes”, it allows you to live completely independently while accessing the benefits of supports such as home maintenance, and full time staff to check on you and coordinate a social calendar. Your apartment or villa will likely have a nurse call system, and be designed to adaptable housing code to allow for adjustments if your mobility changes over time.

How is independent living different from buying an apartment?

Why would I choose independent living over my own home?

You don’t have to worry about the repair and maintenance of an Independent Living apartment or villa because it’s all taken care of for you. You also have the added peace of mind of knowing that your home is within a secure complex and, should you need it, emergency medical assistance is available 24 hours, 7 days a week. Isolation and loneliness is never an issue because you have instant access to a range of organised activities, convenient facilities and a community of like-minded people.

Yes—most facilities have an age requirement. The Central by Goodwin for example is exclusively for people 60 years or older.

At Goodwin, you don’t buy the property, you enter a Deed of Loan and Licence—a formal contract that gives you an ongoing licence to live in your apartment or villa.

On top of this license, you also pay a monthly fee that covers all maintenance of your home and the operating costs of your complex—similar to a body corporate fee.

There is a “deferred management fee” payable on exit, offset by a share of the capital gain.

You have the security of knowing exactly where you stand financially, from entry, and at Goodwin you have no responsibility for refurbishing or reselling the property, which can be a huge burden for your family.

How do I apply?

Simply register your interest with the Goodwin sales office: sales@goodwin. org.au or 02 6175 5000.

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The Key to Ageless Style We all have it—a sense of style. But it can be tricky to translate that into our everyday wardrobe. Instead many of us find ourselves the owners of a mish mash of colours, styles and clothes that have hardly seen the light of day.

So, how do you create a wardrobe that you love? It comes down to three key factors: style personality, wearing colours that you love and understanding your body. If you nail these, everything else falls into place.

by Fiona Keary

The Feminine

Style Personality The key to creating a wardrobe that you love comes down to defining your style.

It’s the most important step in putting together a wardrobe that is not only fabulous but also reflects you. If you're not clear on what your style is you can often feel a little lost, confused and uncomfortable with what's sitting in your wardrobe. Leading to the dreaded cry 'I have nothing to wear!' Actually you do, but you just don't like what you have or how it goes together.

The easiest way to define your style is to identify those pieces in your wardrobe that you absolutely love – that make you feel great. How would you define them?

Are they classic, elegant, feminine or are they edgy, creative or sultry. Look for the common themes. It’s also really

30

useful to look at those pieces that you never wear, taking note and avoiding similar styles in the future.

Don’t get concerned if don’t fit neatly into one category, you're style will usually be a combination of two or three. Your style personality can also change over time depending on your lifestyle, so I highly recommend revisiting it every so often.

Here’s a snapshot of the most common style personalities. Which one are you?

The Natural Relaxed and effortless. They prefer natural fibres and neutral colours.

Naturals love nothing more than pulling on a pair of jeans, cargoes or linen pants and teaming it with a tee and flats. The look is all about comfort and practicality.

Soft and romantic look.

They prefer draping or flowing fabrics, including ruffles and frills. Feminines love to wear dresses, embracing florals and other softly rounded patterns.

The Classic I like to call it the suited and booted look but being classic doesn’t necessarily mean that you only wear suits. Classics prefer timeless pieces in neutral colours. Pieces are usually semifitted and always appropriate.

The Elegant Very similar to a classic in the sense that pieces are timeless, structured and streamlined. The difference is that they use richer colours such as purples, deep blues and reds. The look is polished and everything looks expensive (it doesn’t mean that it is, but it looks that way).

Chris wears Lace T-shirt Dress in Black/Nude, $99,

by Target; Beckett Black Patent Wedge, $139.95, Diana Ferrari; Felicity Clutch in Black, $69.95, Diana Ferrari; Jewellery, model’s own.

The Sultry Oozes glamour and sex appeal.

Sultrys love body contouring clothing and bold colours. They love attention and would never leave the house without their hair and makeup done.

They also have a fondness for animal print (insert leopard purr).

The Dramatic It’s all about the look rather than comfort. Highly stylised and always on trend (or creating them) dramatics love structure and colour. They wouldn’t think twice about doing the groceries in stilettos but let’s be honest they have probably outsourced this chore. These ladies are confident.

The Creative Quirky and fun, Creatives make up their own rules. They are known for their use of unexpected colour combinations (that just work). They use an eclectic mix of styles and shapes and love motifs on jumpers and T-shirts.

Jenny wears Leopard Woven Scarf, $10, by Target; Swing Top in Caramel, $129.95, by Seed Heritage (available at Myer); Knit Skirt in Chocolate, $99.95, by Seed Heritage (available at Myer); Pebble Loafer in Tan, $159, Trenery; Glasses, model’s own.

Body Shape Jenny wears Trenery Minimal Puffer Vest in Light Grey, $179, Trenery Spot Curved Hem Jumper in Cream, $119, The Caroline 7/8 Zip Detail Jean $199.99 by Blue Illusion, Diana Ferrari, Andi Navy and Bone Suede Trainer, $129.95 and Clean Break Hobo Bag, $40 from Target.

Colour Another important factor is colour. Not only because wearing the right colours will make you look refreshed, glowing and healthy—there’s an even more exciting benefit. By sticking to a warm (yellow based colours) or cool (blue based) colour palette everything in your wardrobe will mix and match.

That means you can do so much more with less.

Again, take a look in your wardrobe.

What colours are you most attracted to? Are there particular colours you wear that attract lots of compliments?

If so you’re on the right track.

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Our bodies continually change, however our body architecture (or proportions) generally stay the same. When we talk about body shape we’re not talking about size, size doesn’t matter when creating a great silhouette. Proportions count and creating balance is a matter of wearing styles of clothing that enhance those parts of the body that we love. That may also include creating width to parts of our bodies.

For example, if you have a triangle body shape (your bust is proportionately smaller than your hips, and you have a well-defined waist), the easiest way to create balance is by visually widening the upper body: bust and shoulder line. One way to do this is to wear tops or jackets that are brighter or lighter in colour, patterned or with horizontal stripes.

So the key to ageless style is understanding what works for you.

Embrace your style and remember every day is an excuse to dress up.

Thanks to our stylish models and Central residents, Jenny Weire, Jenny Carr and Chris Johnson.

My top tips: 1. Have fun with fashion.

It’s a way to express yourself.

When you’ve nailed your sense of style you never have to follow trends, you just update your wardrobe every season with pieces that you love.

3. Get the basics right.

Invest in underwear and staple pieces such as pants, skirts and jackets.

4. Layering is key.

If done properly you can wear most of your wardrobe year round.

2. Shop anywhere & everywhere.

Don’t limit yourself, you never know what you’ll find at your grand daughter’s favourite store. Check out Forever New— you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

5. Don’t forget accessories.

Great basics will see you through from season to season but accessories will add interest and change an outfit completely.

Kallista Knitted Schoolboy Hat, $39.99, by Blue Illusion; The Caroline 7/8 Zip Detail Jean, $199.99, by Blue Illusion; Holly Pebble Gusset Boot in Tan, $199.00, by Trenery; Juniper Pebble Satchel in Powder Blue, $299,

by Trenery; Oversized Tweed Rollkneck Jumper in Charcoal, $169, by Trenery.

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S SE !

M U W O O NO RO NH G D W IN BE TO LL 3 E & TS, S S 2 E 1, EN US TM O AR TH AP PEN &

STAGE 2 NOW SELLING T H E C E N T R A L AT C R A C E

The Central’s beautifully appointed apartments, townhouses and penthouses feature everything you need to create a relaxing haven within a connected and vibrant community.

And with an urban location that boasts a host of sophisticated amenities and no maintenance chores to take up your time, this is your final opportunity to choose an exceptional lifestyle.

Come and see The Central for yourself Join us every Friday between 10am and 12pm for complimentary morning tea and an exclusive tour of our exceptional facilities, or call our sales office on 6175 5057 to book a time that suits you.

FOR DETAILS, VISIT CENTRALBYGOODWIN.ORG.AU OR CALL 02 6175 5057