With Winter definitely upon us and the colder nights and icy mornings settling in, its easy to stay inside and lock ourselves away. And while it might be tempting to keep hidden, especially if we are suffering from a cough or a sniffle, getting outdoors, if only for a short time, can have an insanely positive influence over, not just our physical but our mental health as well.
Having a little one at home, I've found myself recently all too familiar with the 'staying home its easier' routine. In particular on days when the wind is blowing a gale and the weather app is showing rain.
Although on days when I have mustered up the motivation to get the pram out and go for a walk, the difference it makes to my mood is ridiculous. Even if you don't have the ability to go for a walk, just sit outside with the sun on your face and enjoy a warm cup of tea. You might just surprise yourself!
trading as On the Coast Publications ABN 52 212 212 482 PO Box 3251, Bateau Bay NSW 2261
For advertising enquiries advertising@onthecoastpublications.com.au
For article contribution enquiries hello@onthecoastpublications.com.au
Imagery freepik.com
Contributors
Dorian Mode, Lydia Thorpe, Carin Clegg, Sophie Doyle, Sam Woods, Jordi Woods, Diana Arundell, Mia Eddy, Sheree Orbell, and Sarah Tolmie onthecoastpublications.com.au
A message from
ourDirectors
At Palmers Tours, travel has always meant more to us than just going from one place to another — it’s about connection, community, and creating lasting memories along the way.
Over two years ago, we proudly took over the reins of this family–owned business with the goal of continuing the trusted legacy built before us, while bringing fresh energy and heartfelt passion to every journey we create.
One of the greatest joys of this role has been forming genuine bonds with our travellers. Whether it’s catching up over morning tea on the road, sharing a laugh during a sightseeing stop, or hearing your stories from past tours, it’s the people who make this job so rewarding.
We’re constantly inspired by the friendships formed on tour, the joy in discovering new destinations together, and the trust our guests place in us to deliver safe, comfortable, and truly enjoyable experiences.
As we look ahead, we’re excited to bring you a selection of new tours and returning favourites – all thoughtfully designed to take the stress out of travel so you can simply relax and enjoy the journey.
Thank you for being a part of the Palmers family. We can’t wait to welcome you aboard.
There’s something about the South Coast that makes you breathe differently. Perhaps it’s the salt–laced air or the endless horizon stretching beyond Norfolk Pines but stepping into our luxury suite at Banisters feels like entering a coastal magazine spread come to life. King–size comfort wrapped in raffles–era bamboo and coastal art, with sheer cotton curtains dancing in the sea breeze like nature’s own theatre.
The long hush of the sea provides the soundtrack whilst views of the ocean, framed by whispering casuarinas and curling dragon trees, reminds me why this stretch of coastline inspires everyone from painters to poets. The smells of kelp and brine drift up from the shore below— the same briny essence that no doubt inspires the culinary creations at Rick Stein’s restaurant downstairs. Moreover, the infinity pool and Cool Bar prove perfect spots for watching the world drift by.
OLD FRIENDS AND NEW FLAVOURS
Our South Coast adventure has a delightful reunion element–catching up with my old chum Simon Marnie at the launch of the Shoalhaven Food Network’s Seasonal Celebration of Food. Simon, the former ABC weekend presenter who used to have me on his show as a monthly guest to chat about all sorts of nonsense and travel, was hosting the launch with his typical flair. The Shoalhaven Food Network is special. It brings together the region’s creative community of food purveyors, growers, producers and hospitality venues in a way that feels genuinely collaborative rather than competitive.
It’s wonderful to see Simon in his element, championing local producers and the region’s culinary scene. But special mention must go to Di Laver –
if there was ever a gong for services to food, Di should get a papal award. A former TAFE hospitality teacher turned food network founder, Di earned the unofficial title of “Queen of Hospitality” through sheer dedication to the industry. She mentored and inspired so many people in the food industry, her influence rippling through kitchens and producers across the region. What started as a local Huskisson initiative grew under her guidance to encompass Berry, Kangaroo Valley, Nowra, Milton and Ulladulla, creating connections between producers and chefs that strengthen the entire food ecosystem. The success speaks for itself – last year’s festival served over 8,000 meals across six weeks, with events selling out left and right.
LUNCH AND LODGING AT CUPITTS
Our South Coast adventure continues at Cupitts Estate, the renowned Shoalhaven winery that’s earned its stripes in James Halliday’s Wine Companion. Meeting Simon and Rosie Cupitt for a wine tasting proves enlightening, particularly when she pours their Nebbiolo. Simon quipped, “like a choir of angels crying on your tongue.” This northern Italian variety is famously picky about where it’s grown, yet it seems to thrive in the cool climate conditions.
Rosie is fun and engaging and her tasting is a masterclass in how terroir and
winemaking skill can coax excellence from even the most demanding grape varieties. James Halliday’s high ratings for Cupitts’ wines, including their Merlot and Fiano, speak to the quality they’re achieving in this picturesque corner of the Shoalhaven.
It’s a region where food culture really thrives, where winemakers push boundaries, and where festivals celebrate the marriage of land and sea that makes this corner of New South Wales so special
But wine is just the beginning. Our lunch at Cupitts’ restaurant elevates country dining to sophisticated heights. Simon and your author opt for the ricotta gnocchi with duck ragù—slow–braised to perfection with sourdough crumbs and pecorino for $38. Meanwhile, my wife Lydia chooses the grilled snapper with red pepper sauce, complemented by tomato, fennel, and courgette for $46. Both dishes showcase the kitchen’s commitment to quality ingredients and
PHOTOGRAPHY
thoughtful preparation. Between bites and catching up on old times, Simon can’t resist pulling out his Opal card to brag about his $2 seniors’ fares. Hey, there’s an upside to ageing.
After lunch, we settle into Cupitts’ smart cabins for the late arvo/night – a perfect way to extend our stay at this exceptional estate and fully immerse ourselves in the vineyard experience. The cabins strike that ideal balance between contemporary comfort and rustic charm, nestled amongst the vines with views that sweep across rolling vineyard rows to the distant Budawang Ranges. There’s something deeply satisfying about falling asleep to the sounds of the countryside after a
FACT BOX
day spent tasting wines where they’re actually made, and catching up with old mates, knowing you can wake up and step straight back into the heart of this working winery. It’s accommodation that doesn’t just house you – it connects you to the land and the craft that makes places like Cupitts so special.
A HIP FINALE AT GWYLO
Our final evening brings together the whole gang – Griff and Rosie Cupitt, Simon, Lydia, and me – at Gwylo, a hip Asian restaurant in Mollymook that proves the perfect finale to our South Coast adventure. There’s something wonderful about ending a food–focused trip with new friends around a table, sharing dishes and stories as the
evening unfolds.
THE PERFECT COASTAL EQUATION
The South Coast has always been about more than just pretty views and sea breezes. It’s a region where food culture thrives, where winemakers push boundaries, and where festivals celebrate the marriage of land and sea that makes this corner of New South Wales so special.
From Banisters’ sophisticated coastal elegance to Cupitts’ rustic wine excellence and the warm embrace of the Shoalhaven Food Network’s fabulous community spirit, this South Coast sojourn reminds me why some places simply get under your skin.
The Shoalhaven Food Networks features local producers and culinary experiences, with the upcoming event the Terra Firma Long Lunch at Wildwood KV featuring asada–style cooking.
For more events visit: https://shoalhavenfoodnetwork.com.au/events or sign up to their fab newsletter for early notifications.
SPECIAL EVENT
FRIDAY 4 JULY – WINE & TRUFFLE DINNER at The Carrington Hotel Katoomba
This new series of exclusive culinary events will be hosted by Simon Marnie – much loved ABC presenter, food lover, and proud advocate of Australian produce and wine. Set in the grand surrounds of The Carrington Hotel, these intimate dinners feature exquisite multi–course menus matched with premium wines, celebrating the best our regions have to offer. Get ready for an indulgent 4–course celebration of truffles, expertly paired with wines from Brown Brothers Wines. Tickets are $185 per person and bookings are essential.
From only $499 for a couple (midweek), this popular package includes:
• Overnight stay in an Estate Villa • Two course dining experience at Cupitt’s Restaurant
• Two glasses of Cupitt’s Brut Cuvée • In–room continental breakfast hamper first morning of stay
• Barista–made coffee first morning of stay • Wine tasting at the Cellar Door • Local handcrafted chocolates https://stay.cupittsestate.com.au/wintergourmetgetaway2025/ HANDY WEBSITES AND LINKS
Chef Simon Marnie is interviewing is Jason Wilkinson from Sandbar in Huskisson
FACT BOX
FOR THE PLANETPartying
BY CARIN CLEGG, ACCREDITED PRACTISING DIETITIAN
If I had a dollar for every time I heard a client or parent mention to me that when they or their kids have a celebration there is too much junk food, I would be a kajillionaire! It seems like everyone is trying to be healthy, but somehow at these special times, going overboard is the norm.
Not only are these foods not good for our bodies, with little nutrients, they increase our risk of chronic disease like diabetes, heart disease and cancer but they are not good for our planet when it come to the amount of processing, transportation, packaging relating to the greenhouse gas emissions, water used and toxic waste generated.
When we are trying to reduce our eco footprint the first best thing is to eat only what our body needs and minimise over–indulging in foods our bodies do not need.
Celebration times are a great opportunity to help your family and circle of friends be healthy, try some
new foods and look after the planet. When people have been role modelling eating planet friendly foods these foods may be more easily accepted at home by the other members of the family who may be a bit hesitant to try those veggie patties or hummus dips and vegetable sticks.
Here are my five top ideas to host a Planet Friendly Party that will help everyone keep healthy too.
PLAN NOT TO OVER CATER TOO MUCH FOR FOOD
Think about the last event you hosted, how many people and how much food was consumed, then adjust how much you prepare and purchase accordingly.
Celebration times are a great opportunity to help your family and circle of friends be healthy, try some new foods and look after the planet
CHOOSE FRESH WHOLESOME FOODS, MINIMALLY PACKED FOODS AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE
You could even shop at your local wholefood store. Think of easy–to–make homemade dips and veggie sticks, bowls
of nuts or trail mix, popcorn or roasted legumes for nibbles. To accompany dessert, serve a fruit platter.
CHOOSE TO REUSE CUTLERY AND CROCKERY
Ask family and friends to borrow if you need or check out the Party Kit Network. You may need to ask for a few kitchen helpers for the washing up but many hands make light work and most people do not mind helping out.
MANAGE WASTE
Tell your guests how to dispose of waste such as what goes into the compost bin, worm farm, how to recycle right and what goes to the landfill bin. Signs work really well.
Also arrange for leftovers to be taken home to be eaten by asking people to bring a container.
REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF ‘SOMETIMES FOODS’ BEING BROUGHT BY OTHERS
Ask people to bring specific food items and tell people why you do not want an
Think about the last event you hosted, how many people and how much food was consumed, then adjust how much you prepare and purchase accordingly
excess of ‘sometimes foods’.
Here are some suggestions I have heard from families:
kids go hyperactive, feel sick, it is not good for them when they have too much ‘sometimes foods’.
there is a history of diabetes in the family and it is important to keep healthy habits even at special occasions as we have so many celebrations now.
the cake is the treat for the party.
we want to limit food waste and plastic packaging with our zero waste
JOIN MILLIONS OF PEOPLE REDUCING THEIR PLASTIC WASTE
Plastic Free July is a global movement that helps millions of people be part of the solution to plastic pollution – so we can have cleaner streets, oceans, and beautiful communities. Will you be part of Plastic Free July by pledging to refuse single–use plastics?
For more information, visit www.plasticfreejuly.org
Carin Clegg is the Director of Bright Diets, is a Paediatric Dietitian and Fitness Professional with an interest in sustainability. Carin wants everyone to be clever about their eating to feel happy, healthy and vibrant! Reach out at 0413 77 44 11, www.brightdiets.com.au or on the socials.
lifestyle/household.
most people attending are trying to be healthy too and it is important we look after our guests.
This Plastic Free July join me to make a healthy difference when it comes to celebrations and tread lightly on our Mother Earth.
DELAY TO AGED CARE ACT PROVIDES TIME TO PREPARE –USE IT WISELY
BY SOPHIE DOYLE, RETIREMENT AND FINANCIAL AGED CARE SPECIALIST
On 4 June 2025, the Federal Government announced a delay to the start of the new Aged Care Act – now set to commence on 1 November 2025, instead of 1 July.
According to The Hon Sam Rae MP, Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, these once–in–a–generation reforms are designed to deliver a high–quality, sustainable, and world–class aged care system for all Australians. The additional time will help aged care providers prepare their systems and workforce, while also allowing the Government to finalise key legislative and operational elements.
Importantly, this delay also provides you and your family with more time to plan – to understand what’s changing, seek expert advice, and make informed choices under the current rules before they change in November.
What’s changing?
One of the most significant shifts is the introduction of the Support at Home program, which will replace the current Home Care Packages and Commonwealth Home Support Program. The aim is to provide older Australians with more flexible, coordinated care that helps them stay active, healthy and connected in their communities for longer.
The aim is to provide older Australians with more flexible, coordinated care that helps them stay active, healthy and connected in their communities for longer
However, concerns were raised – particularly amongst home care providers – that the sector is not yet
Navigating aged care takes time – from organising assessments to comparing providers and securing a place. Don’t leave these important steps until the last minute
ready for such a major overhaul. The delay gives the entire aged care system some breathing space to prepare for a smoother, more effective rollout.
Why this matters to you
Whether you’re planning for your own future or supporting a loved one, this delay creates an important window of opportunity. Here’s how you can use it wisely:
Residential Aged Care: If you or a family member is considering a move into permanent care, there is still time to enter under the current fee arrangements, which may be more favourable than those coming into effect in November.
Home care:
If you’re already receiving home care,
your existing package will remain in place until 1 November. Now is a great time to review your care agreement, talk with your provider, and understand what the upcoming changes could mean for your services and fees.
Planning ahead:
Navigating aged care takes time – from organising assessments to comparing providers and securing a place. Don’t leave these important steps until the last minute. To get started, contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or visit www.myagedcare.gov.au. They’re available Monday to Friday (8:00am–8:00pm) and Saturdays (10:00am–2:00pm).
Take advantage of the extra time Aged care is complex, and the financial side is often overlooked until it becomes urgent. From Age Pension entitlements to accommodation payments and estate planning, the financial impacts of aged
care decisions can be significant.
For instance, how your Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) or family home is assessed can differ between aged care and social security rules – affecting your pension, care fees, and what’s ultimately passed on to your family.
This is where the right guidance can make a meaningful difference.
Start the conversation now
The best outcomes happen when you plan ahead. This delay gives you the opportunity to explore your options and put strategies in place before the rules change.
If you’re not sure where to begin, I’m here to help. As a qualified financial adviser specialising in retirement and aged care, I can provide personalised guidance based on your financial goals, care needs, and family circumstances.
Let’s make a plan that gives you peace of mind – for today and the future. Call us: 02 4325 0884 | Email: erina@morgans.com.au Visit us: Make an appointment at our new office in Erina 4/168 The Central Coast Hwy, Erina – we’d love to see you. morgans.com.au/gosford
Sophie Doyle (AR#000470612) is a Retirement & Aged Care Specialist at Morgans Financial Limited
Sophie is passionate about helping people over 55 make informed decisions that empower them to step confidently into the next phase of life. She specialises in creating personalised financial strategies tailored to each client’s lifestyle, aspirations, and risk tolerance—enabling them to live a life full of meaning, purpose, and peace of mind. Disclaimer: While every care has been taken, Morgans Financial Limited makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of the contents. The information is of a general nature only and has been prepared without consideration of your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making any decisions, you should consider the appropriateness for your personal investment objectives, financial situation or individual needs. We recommend you see a financial adviser, registered tax agent or legal adviser before making any decisions based on this information. Current at 16 June 2025.
(Morgans AFSL 235410 / ABN49 010 669 726).
DRESSING DOWN WITH denim
BY SAM & JORDI WOODS
Do you ever look at an item in your wardrobe and wish you could wear it but feel that it is just much for your everyday activities?
Let us introduce you to dressing down with denim…
Denim is one of the easiest ways to make an outfit look more relaxed, casual and “day appropriate”.
Take Sam’s lace dress for example, this dress worn with a neutral slip dress underneath and a pair of boots is more than appropriate to go and do the groceries or meet a friend for coffee. Remember : “you can never be over dressed, only inappropriately dressed” – Sam Woods
We understand that many clients would still feel that a lace dress and boots is too “over the top” for such outings especially when their friends and peers may not want to “dress up” as much. However despite many people not dressing up clients often say to us “I really want to dress up, I just feel like people look at me and then they ask ‘where are you going’, as if I need to be going somewhere fancy to dress up”.
In recent years since the stay at home era of Covid, as a society it seems to be also more accepted to “dress down” or venture out in outfits that would normally be only worn at home or for exercise. This is perfectly fine if you
enjoy that style of attire however, if you do feel good when you “dress up” or be creative with an outfit, then you should stay true to yourself and do so with confidence.
If you want to dress up and make the most of a beautiful wardrobe and items you love to wear, then do it… but do it with denim thrown in!
Layering with a denim piece is a super easy way to make an outfit feel less over the top and it also gives off an air of “relaxed casual” making it easier to step out in style without feeling too over dressed.
A few ways you can work with denim;
tulle skirt and loafer for medical appointments or movie with a friend.
Our challenge for you; pick one of the items in your wardrobe that you want to wear but feel is too much for everyday activities and layer it with denim using our style tips.
Denim jeans paired with a silk blazer and graphic tee for a coffee date.
Metallic knit jumper teamed with a denim midi skirt and ankle boot to do the groceries.
Silk or lace dress under a denim jacket for dinner at the pub mid–week.
Sequin tee, with a pair of denim jeans layered under a denim trench coat to run errands.
Denim chambray shirt with a
Don’t forget, people may look at you, but chances are it’s because they are admiring you and wishing that they had the confidence to dress up a little more and make the most of their beautiful wardrobe. Who knows, you may even inspire someone to dress up too!
Vibrantly yours,
Sam & Jordi Woods x
Understanding styling and fashion is one thing. Having a super natural flair for making everyday people look incredible is another. Once you’ve met Sam & Jordi Woods , it’s hard not to catch their infectious passion for dressing to match your own lifestyle, personality and charisma. Through their consultancy ‘Vibrant Concepts’, Sam & Jordi have transformed the lives of thousands. Let Sam & Jordi show you how to look and feel fabulous every day at their Style Studio in Erina – learn the art of illusion dressing, colour matching, styling, translating fashion trends and savvy shopping with their unique VC Signature Styling Systems and services that are truly personal and really work! To contact Vibrant Concepts phone 0425 221 676
MUSCLE LOSS – DOES ‘OSTEOPOROSIS’ OF THE MUSCLE EXIST?
WRITTEN BY DIANA ARUNDELL –UNIVERSITY QUALIFIED NATUROPATH
Muscle mass quality and quantity peaks for most people in their 30s. Once in our 50s, 10% of the population will notice a difference in muscle size and strength, and by the time we are in our 80s most people will have lost up to 40% of muscle mass and strength. Sarcopenia is the degeneration in the number and size of skeletal muscle fibres. Sarcopenia can be further divided into primary or secondary sarcopenia. Primary sarcopenia is associated with the natural ageing process and/or inadequate physical activity. Secondary sarcopenia is a result of another condition such as diabetes, autoimmune or other inflammatory diseases.
Loss in muscle size naturally leads to loss of strength and weakness, which if severe, can lead to poor posture and poor balance, which can significantly affect quality of life. Issues that may develop due to sarcopenia include inability to independently carry out daily tasks/ activities as well as an increased risk of falling and fracture.
As much as sarcopenia is associated with the ageing process, it’s also affecting younger people due to poor dietary and lifestyle choices. Unfortunately, even active people will lose muscle mass as
they age, however exercise and good nutrition can significantly reduce the speed at which this can happen.
Ultimately muscle loss is accelerated by physical inactivity and poor nutrition. Inactivity can be a result of choice or for others due to disability, so they are unable to maintain adequate physically activity. Short periods of bed rest even for a few days can accelerate muscle degeneration, so daily activity is encouraged and can be done without leaving the house if necessary. Once muscle wasting has occurred it can take weeks to regain
muscle and physical activity is essential for the process. (See next page for ideas to promote muscle development and maintenance).
Poor nutritional quantity or quality intake and malabsorption issues can also lead to inadequate fuel for muscle maintenance and growth. Muscle loss isn’t limited to lean people as obese individuals can be at risk of sarcopenia due to poor nutrition and inactivity. Due to poor diet and lifestyle choices, sarcopenia can co–exist with osteoporosis (low bone mineral density) which can
lead to a combination of issues and may be referred to as ‘osteosarcopenic obesity’.
Good quality protein needs to be consumed on a daily basis to support muscle maintenance as well as maintaining good digestion and absorption. Lean animal products such as meat, dairy and vegetarian options such as legumes, beans, tofu, nuts, seeds and combining grains are all good protein options. Suboptimal digestive function, especially suppressed or low stomach acid function, can reduce the absorption of protein and other minerals such as calcium, iron and zinc which are essential for muscle growth and bone mineral density.
When dietary targets cannot be met, supplementation can be useful. Bioactive collagen peptides are a good source of protein and can help contribute to tissue building/repair and promote the growth and maintenance of muscle mass. Creatine monohydrate and beta–hydroxy beta–methylbutyrate (HMB) have been
shown to improve muscle mass volume/ strength and reduce muscle atrophy when trialled against placebo both in athletes and also convalescing people. These can be easily added to smoothies and are best prescribed via a qualified natural health professional trained in nutrition.
Ideas to promote muscle development and maintenance:
Keep leg muscles strong by walking more and choosing to take the stairs rather than the elevator or escalator whenever possible. Pack some weights or a heavy water bottle in your bag to add load to the muscles.
Don’t rely on arm rests to get out of chairs. Engage the quadricep muscles in the thighs to lift up and out of a chair.
At home exercise routines can include squats or lunges to work the quadricep muscles in the legs, using hand weights for upper body strength or utilising an ‘exercise band’ to work all body parts.
Setting aside 15mins per day of
Diana Arundell, university–qualified Naturopath and Nutritionist. She has a special interest in fertility, digestive health, immune function and mental health. She was a lecturer of nutrition at Macquarie University for 10 years and currently consults from her Avoca Naturopath clinic.
strength exercise can make a big difference to encouraging muscle maintenance and suppleness.
Yoga and Pilates classes utilise natural body weight as resistance to build and maintain muscle mass and are low impact.
There are many free apps that act as a person trainer to encourage regular activity, and these can be carried out in the comfort of your own home and it’s not weather dependant.
Engaging an exercise physiologist or personal trainer one–on–one or in a small group can be motivating and helpful, especially if injury is a concern.
Prevention is easier than cure so take a moment to check in with how you are currently taking care of your skeletal muscle and how you can improve or maintain this precious muscle mass to carry you through your life.
For further information or to make an appointment please contact Diana Arundell at Avoca Naturopath on 0410 465 900.
THE SYDNEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA RETURN TO THE ART HOUSE
The Art House welcome back long–time friends, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra for one night only. Performing beautiful music by two of the great Romantic composers: Dvoř ák and Richard Strauss and shining a spotlight on the world–class woodwind section of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.
The Orchestra will be performing Strauss’s Wind Serenade and Suite for Wind Instruments as well as Dvoř ák’s Wind Serenade, audiences will be delighted to sit back and enjoy this sensational auditory experience in The Art House’s 500–seat proscenium arch theatre.
Richard Strauss’ two early masterpieces for wood instruments are full of colour, contrast and lots of fun in the characterful music. Antonín
Dvoř ák’s Wind Serenade builds over four gorgeous movements, from lyrical to lively and rhythmic. Central Coast classical music aficionados can expect to hear the extraordinary range of tones, colours and textures of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s woodwind section.
The Sydney Symphony Orchestra are committed to their touring of regional venues to ensure that all can have access to such calibre of fine music and
The Art House Presents The Sydney Symphony Orchestra Performs Dvo řák’s and Strauss Fri 08 Aug 7:30PM
The Art House will continue to be a part of that mission.
Tickets for this performance will not last long, don’t miss this wildly entertaining showcase of the Sydney Symphony’s woodwind musicians.
WHEN FAMILIES SHIFT: what grandparents need to know
BY MIA EDDY, PARALEGAL & SHEREE ORBELL, SOLICITOR DIRECTOR AT ORBELL FAMILY LAWYERS
Grandparents hold a special and enduring place in the lives of children. They offer love, wisdom and a sense of stability across generations. When families go through changes such as separation, illness or hardship, grandparents often step in, providing both emotional and practical support.
If you’re a grandparent who is helping raise your grandchildren, concerned about their wellbeing or worried about losing contact with them, there are ways to seek help and protect your connection. This article explores the evolving roles and legal rights of grandparents, especially when family circumstances change.
WHEN FAMILIES SEPARATE
Separation can be a difficult time for everyone involved, especially children. Grandparents often become a source of comfort and consistency during these challenging times. However, separation can sometimes disrupt the time grandparents are able to spend with their grandchildren.
In some cases, parents informally agree on living arrangements and the time children spend with their extended family. In others, formal agreements are entered into, or the matter is resolved through Court Orders.
It’s important to understand that while grandparents don’t automatically
have a legal right to see their grandchildren, the law does recognise the value of these relationships. Under the Family Law Act 1975, the focus is on the best interests of the child, which can include maintaining relationships with extended family, including grandparents.
WHEN YOU’RE RAISING GRANDCHILDREN FULL TIME
More and more grandparents are becoming full–time carers for their grandchildren. This can occur for many reasons such as a parent’s illness, addiction, mental health challenges or an inability to provide a safe home.
Caring for grandchildren full time can be both deeply fulfilling and incredibly demanding. You may find yourself navigating school enrolments, medical appointments and government paperwork, often years after having raised your own children.
Support is available. From financial assistance through Services Australia to formalising your caregiving arrangement through the courts,
there are steps you can take to ensure stability and clarity for everyone involved. Seeking legal advice from an experienced family lawyer early can help ease the burden and provide peace of mind.
It’s important to understand that while grandparents don’t automatically have a legal right to see their grandchildren, the law does recognise the value of these relationships
WHEN YOU’RE BEING PREVENTED FROM SEEING YOUR GRANDCHILDREN
Unfortunately, some grandparents find themselves suddenly cut off from their grandchildren, sometimes after playing a key caregiving role. This can happen when family relationships break down
or when parents resume care after a period of absence.
If this occurs, the first step is to try to speak with the parents to try and reach an agreement, if it is safe and constructive to do so. Open communication can sometimes restore a relationship, without needing external support.
If this isn’t possible or doesn’t resolve the issue, you may consider family dispute resolution (a form of mediation) or seeking legal advice. Grandparents can apply to the Court for Orders to spend time with their grandchildren or, in some cases, to have a role in making decisions about the child’s care. The Court’s primary concern is always the child’s wellbeing, not the wishes of the adults involved.
WHEN YOU’RE CONCERNED FOR YOUR GRANDCHILDREN’S SAFETY
As a grandparent, it’s natural to worry if you believe your grandchildren might not be safe or well cared for. Concerns might arise due to exposure to domestic and family violence, substance abuse, neglect, mental health issues or unstable living environment.
For urgent concerns, call Triple Zero (000). If the situation is not an emergency, you can report your concerns to the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ).
If you wish to step in and care for your grandchildren long term and they are not in immediate danger, a family lawyer can help you explore your options and understand your rights.
SUPPORT AND RESOURCES
There are a number of services
that offer support, information and guidance to grandparents:
Family Relationship Advice Line –1800 050 321
www.fral.org.au
Provides advice about the family law system and referrals to dispute resolution services.
Raising Children Network raisingchildren.net.au
Practical advice and videos specifically for grandparent carers.
Services Australia Support for Grandparent Carers
136 150
servicesaustralia.gov.au
You may be eligible for financial assistance depending on your circumstances.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Being a grandparent is one of life’s great joys, but when family dynamics shift, it can also come with unexpected
Unfortunately, some grandparents find themselves suddenly cut off from their grandchildren, sometimes after playing a key caregiving role
challenges. Whether you’re helping during a tough time, caring full time or trying to stay in contact, it’s important to know you’re not alone.
Support is available. Knowing your options, your rights and where to turn for help can give you the confidence to make decisions in your grandchildren’s best interests.
If you require legal guidance and assistance navigating your family law matter, please contact us.
Phone: (02) 4314 6080
Website: www.orbellfamilylawyers.com.au
Email: info@orbellfamilylawyers.com.au
Mingara Spring Fair and Show
FREE COMMUNITY EVENT
The show will be held on Saturday 13th September from 9am to 4pm and Sunday 14th September from 10am to 3pm.
The second Mingara Orchid Club Inc. show for 2025 will be the Spring Show & Fair held on the 13th – 14th of September 2025, at the Anglican Church hall, Brooke Avenue Bateau Bay.
While this is smaller than our show at Mingara Recreation Club, it is still jam packed with beautiful examples of orchids, and has a variety of stalls for purchasing both plants and supplies for growing them.
• Orchid Sales, including big range of accessories
• Market stalls, great food, tea and coffee
THE 'FUN' CLUB
Looking for a little more fun, friendship, and fresh air? You’ll find it all at the Wyee Probus Club … the “Fun” club.
We’re the Wyee Probus Club — and yes, fun really is our middle name. From scenic picnics and Opal Card adventures to places such as Manly, Watsons Bay, Newcastle and elsewhere, to our annual getaway in a cabin, caravan, or tent — we know how to make the most of our retirement.
We also enjoy regular lunches at local clubs and cafés, and at our monthly meetings, we celebrate birthdays, welcome entertaining guest speakers, and share a great meal together.
Retired or semi–retired and aged 55+ Come join the fun — you’ve earned it.
Matters of life & love
BY SARAH TOLMIE
DearlyBeloved
A wise one once said to me, ‘you must plan for your career after retirement’. It’s a great mindset to have. Ending your paid working life does not necessarily mean the end of your contribution to your community. It does not mean the end of productivity, learning and new endeavours. It is just the beginning.
I’ve always been a worker myself, and the art of taking holidays and travelling for travelling sakes has always seemed a bit weird and indulgent to me. Don’t get me wrong, I love and value pleasure, rest and new experiences, however there is always a niggle in the back of my mind, ‘apart from boosting a local economy, how is this bettering the world…what do I do with this experience?” So maybe, travel is not enough of a plan to fulfil you either.
There is so much talk about how we must plan for our financial future, superannuation and retirement funds, but what kind of retiree do you plan to be in your body, mind and soul? When does that conversation get to happen?
What are your plans for continued learning & contributing to society & community life? How will you actively manage your health and wellbeing? What pathway will your
READER QUESTION: “In a couple of months’ time I will be retiring from working life. Other than a holiday to mark the transition the month after I finish, and later plans for some travel, I am now getting nervous about all the free time available to me. I actually think my wife is a bit anxious about having me around too much. I’m not a golfer either. Got some tips?”
spiritual development take? What sort of grandparent do you intend to be? Will you assume a leadership role in your family/community? Maybe there is a new skill you might want to learn? Maybe there is something you can teach? Could you be a mentor to younger people?
There is delicious harvest to be reaped by couples who make it into their retirement together. It can be a time of rich relationship revival. The key is to not take each other for granted
There are so many organisations that offer an exciting world of learning, activity and community. University of the third age (U3A), Probus, Rotary, Arts organisations, Clubs and many community volunteering hubs. It is never too late to pick up an activity, sport or craft.
As long as we are living and loving
we can evolve, grow and transform. It is about setting intentions, making a decision, creating a discipline to lean into something new. Make a promise to yourself to commit to something that takes you out of your comfort zone.
Also, as a relationship coach, it would be remiss of me not to point out the opportunity to renew and deepen your relationship with your wife. The fact that you have picked up on her having some nerves about your increased spare time tells me there is an important conversation to be had which may include a renegotiation on roles, responsibilities and how to divide your time together and apart.
There is delicious harvest to be reaped by couples who make it into their retirement together. It can be a time of rich relationship revival. The key is to not take each other for granted. Trust there is more to learn and love about each other. There is still more mystery and surprise to generate together. Find a passion you can share.
Discuss these questions together and actively imagine and create a new model for retiring you can be excited to embark on. I am excited for you both!
Much love
Sarah x
Sarah Tolmie – Life & Love: Sarah is a marriage therapist, life & love and relationship coach, end–of–life consultant, an independent and bespoke funeral director and holistic celebrant. She provides holistic care, mentoring, guidance, healing and transformation for individuals, couples and families at their most important times of life & love – at end–of–life, in love & relationship, and in ritual and celebration. Sarah has a relationship online course for couples called “Creating a Miracle Marriage” and a guide to working with feelings and emotions called “How Do You Feel?”; plus a free resource and video series for families facing dying, death and grief called “Landscapes of Life & Love and Loss”. To find out more, visit www.sarahtolmie.com.au
