Lifestyle 55+ 2021/22 Edition

We

FOUNDATION PARTNERS

Thank you to our Foundation Partners for seeing the vision and supporting positive ageing on the Sunshine Coast.

HELEN KELLER

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

Ingrid Nelson Co-Editor

A New Dawn!

Welcome to the second annual edition of the Lifestyle 55 + magazine. The purpose of this innovative magazine is to work with various stakeholders to showcase the best of the Sunshine Coast, disrupt thinking around ageing and help shape the Sunshine Coast as Australia’s most age-friendly community.

One of our great assets on the Sunshine Coast is our over 55 community. They bring a wealth of knowledge, expertise, empathy, emotional intelligence and wisdom -- all of which has been conferred and moulded over the course of time. They are an untapped resource brimming with potential.

Given the largest population increase over the next 20 years will be those over 75 years of age, it is more important than ever that we provide as many opportunities to enable our senior cohort to not just age well, but thrive.

Seniors are playing a very big role in creating solutions for the community, helping us become more engaged and connected than ever before. They are using their years of wisdom and experience to give back to the next generation. We are seeing this through business mentor groups and individuals who, as carers, are opening their homes to provide care in a loving environment instead of people having to go into residential care. This is the type of spirit we need to harness if we are to change the ageing narrative.

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank Danielle MacKenzie (CEO of Sundale), Kendall Morton (Director of Home Care Assistance), Bruce Baynes (Director of Sage Care Advice) and Kirt Jarrott ( Director of Poole & Partners Investment Service) for their support.

I would also like to thank Ian Putzier from Bee Inspired and Tricia Welsh for helping the team put this publication together. Finally, I would like to thank my parents, Yvonne and Theo Lopez, for being a constant source of inspiration, my husband, Sanjay, my daughters, Samaira, Tanisha and Shahira for their love and support.

Resort, Caloundra Cay.

In this edition, we celebrate the power of people, spotlighting individuals playing an instrumental role in shaping our community. We take a look at the next generation of influencers and business mentors making their mark with ground-breaking concepts. Our readers will be introduced to people redefining ageing and thriving through their retirement years. We showcase innovation, new ways of living, staying healthy, active and connected.

Cover image and main feature articles shot on location at Palm Lakes

Gerontologist Director, I Age Well Advocate for positive ageing on the Sunshine Coast

Tanya Dave Editor

The coast lifestyle

TheSunshine Coast has long enjoyed an enviable reputation for its relaxed coastal lifestyle, abundant natural attractions and healthy outdoor environment. For local residents, these assets have been doubly appreciated more recently during the pandemic, as travel restrictions have encouraged us to stay at home and get to know our region and neighbourhoods even better.

In an already active and lively community, our over 55 residents are one of our greatest assets. They bring with them a wealth of experience from all walks of life, invaluable skills and knowledge gleaned and shared over career lifetimes, and ideas and concepts gathered that can influence the planning for the future of our region. To ensure the Sunshine Coast continues to flourish and our community continues to benefit, we need to draw on this invaluable resource.

Our over 55 residents can play an important role by becoming actively involved in a range of partnerships with government agencies, organisations and communities across the region. The Healthy Sunshine Coast Seniors Program, IAgeWell’s Lifestyle 55+ Expo, Healthy Ageing Partnership, the opening of the innovative hub Vitality Village and Lifestyle 55+ magazine and service directory are just a few of the many collaborative initiatives aimed at creating a resilient, resourceful, active and socially engaged community.

Let’s work together to build an even healthier, smarter and more creative Sunshine Coast for all our residents.

SUNSHINE COAST MAYOR MARK JAMIESON

WEBSITE

www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

PHONE 1300 007 272

Everyday hero

Not all superheros wear capes, but there are some people in our community who certainly deserve one. We shine the spotlight on one very special lady who has dedicated her life to helping others by volunteering her time and being an advocate for those who need it most.

Cheryl Harris

Words Ingrid Nelson

Every now and again you meet someone who makes you stop and think about what is really important in life and what you are doing to help others: Cheryl Harris is one of those people.

A champion of volunteering, Cheryl was named the 2021 Sunshine Coast Citizen of the year for her outstanding work as CEO of Volunteering Sunshine Coast.

Under her stewardship, volunteering has grown significantly on the Sunshine Coast through collaboration with local government, business, and strong community partnerships. Today, there are around 64,000 volunteers supporting the Sunshine Coast community in widely diverse fields, which equates to around $245 million in unpaid wages.

“Volunteers are a huge part of our social fabric. In Australia, every organisation, no matter what they do, needs volunteers. If you took them out of the equation, there would be hardly any services,” says Cheryl.

“It was such a lovely journey, seeing the growth of the organisation and working with amazing volunteers who are so selfless and get a kick out of what they do without wanting anything in return.”

Always modest about her contributions to the community, Cheryl says she was “blown away” to receive the coveted award earlier this year.

“I think I could have fainted on that day when Mayor Mark Jamieson called out my name. He had to say it again. I thought it must be a mistake,” says Cheryl. “There are such deserving people, and it was such a huge honour to be nominated and to be on the stage with those amazing people.”

Although she officially retired from the position this year, Cheryl continues to help others through various groups including the Maroochydore Neighbourhood Centre, Sunshine Coast Chamber Alliance through the Mentoring program and the Healthy Ageing Partnership Network (HAP).

But let’s go back to where it all began for this truly deserving local legend.

Born in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), Cheryl grew up in a very close-knit family, where helping others was an intrinsic part of her upbringing.

“To me, it’s a natural thing you do in life, you try and help others. You get so much joy out of it. It should never be for a return. You do it because you love what you do,” says Cheryl modestly.

And despite experiencing her fair share of trauma throughout her life, including losing her first husband in a car accident, Cheryl says it was her supportive family and strong faith that taught her some of life’s biggest lessons and shaped who she is today.

“Unfortunately, the year before the car accident, I lost my grandparents, who I was exceptionally close to and I also lost my mum when I was just 20-years-old,” says Cheryl. However, as she laments on her past, Cheryl counts herself lucky for all her blessings, including her two children. Her mantra is that there is always plenty to be grateful for.

“When I think back on my life, I have been very blessed,” says Cheryl.

“I believe life is like a pack of cards: you are dealt a hand and have no idea what that hand is going to be. You have to make the most of what you are dealt, and I was very fortunate I grew up with a lot of love and wonderful mentors.”

“Mum would teach us values and respect. She always said, Never become a victim, whatever happens in one’s life you need to rise above it’. It has always stuck with me. There are always others who are worse off.

Always looking for ways to help others, in 2001 Cheryl was part of the group who founded Caring Clowns, a group of volunteers who brighten the hospital wards by dressing up and bringing smiles to the faces of sick patients.

So, what is this wonderful lady doing now she has a little more time on her hands? More volunteering, of course!

“I still have too much living to do before I croak it,” laughs Cheryl.

Moving to Australia in 1992, Cheryl and her second husband Ken, settled on the Sunshine Coast and she has been helping others in our community ever since.

From working in patient care at Buderim Private Hospital, Caloundra Hospital and Selangor, Cheryl then studied diversional therapy, which allowed her to work across several industries she was passionate about including disability and aged care.

“I landed a job with Sunshine 60 and Better, which I loved. I had so much fun working with the seniors. They have so much knowledge and wisdom to share,” says Cheryl.

However, life took a different direction for Cheryl when her husband was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, eventually requiring dialysis for many years before undergoing a kidney transplant.

It was to be the catalyst for Cheryl’s next role where she was instrumental in setting up a committee for those needing support with kidney disease.

“I will never forget the day I had a meeting with a charity group called CADET in Caloundra and they donated an eight-seater bus to us for transporting patients to and from dialysis,” says Cheryl.

“We then opened a kidney support op shop in Point Cartwright and then Buderim, it was so wonderful to be able to help the patients and their families.”

As president of the Maroochy Neighbourhood centre, Cheryl is passionate about caring for families who are disadvantaged or vulnerable.

She is also Chair of the Healthy Ageing Partnership Network, promoting collaborative partnerships and practices for seniors across the region.

“I think ageing frightens a lot of people, but age is not a death sentence,” says Cheryl.

“We need to accept we are going to end up with a few aches and pains and a different body to when we were 25. But it’s good to keep the brain going. There are so many activities we can do. We can go to yoga, study at U3A (University of the Third Age), we can volunteer, offer to be a mentor, or even to help with a child’s homework. We have to change the way we think about ageing.”

As a valued member of our senior community herself, Cheryl is testament that age is no barrier when it comes to contributing to our society.

With mentors like Cheryl to look up to, our future is in safe hands.

“If only people would realise that just by being kind, the world would be such a different place.”

“We don’t want to lose the history of our seniors, they have so much wisdom to impart. We need to listen and value it more.”

“Volunteers are a huge part of our social fabric. In Australia, every organisation, no matter what they do, needs volunteers. If you took them out of the equation, there would be hardly any services.”

As a young mother of two able-bodied children, Carmel adopted a son with a disability, and quickly realised that the training and employment opportunities available would not be the same.

Carmel Crouch A purpose driven life

While most of her contemporaries are relaxing in coastal retirement, energetic 75-yearold businesswoman Carmel Crouch is driving innovation in the disability sector - often still working up to 70 hours a week.

Words Tricia Welsh

This self-confessed workaholic is the Managing Director of STEPS – an organisation she helped set up some 45 years ago to help young people with a disability. “I’ll probably die with my boots on,” she admits.

As a young mother of two able-bodied children, Carmel adopted a son with a disability, and quickly realised that the training and employment opportunities available would not be the same.

In 1989, along with a small, dedicated group of likeminded parents whose children also had a disability, she was instrumental in setting up STEPS with the express purpose of providing opportunities for such children to achieve self-actualisation and independence.

While running her own successful businesses, this astute businesswoman spearheaded the not-for-profit organisation as Chair and President of its board for 19 years -- the past 14 as Managing Director.

STEPS is now a national operation based in Caloundra with 26 locations across Australia employing more than 300 people nationally, 226 of those on the Sunshine Coast, with an enthusiastic team of 160 volunteers.

An inspirational community leader, Carmel was awarded an Australia Day Ambassadorship in 2019, won the 2021 Senior Citizen of the Year at the Sunshine Coast Australia Day Awards and was one of four nominees for the Queensland Senior Australian of the Year Awards.

One of her proudest achievements was the realisation in 2017 of STEPS Pathways College, a revolutionary model giving young adults with a disability the opportunity to gain unprecedented levels of independence through holistic life skills education. The first of its kind in Australia, the college attracts students from all over the country to take part in its boarding program, and day and online programs.

But, she says, the thing that gives her the greatest joy and pleasure is giving parents their own independence. “It’s not about the kids, because I know they are going to get independence. It’s about giving the parents the independence they were never likely to have – they never even dreamt they could get.

“The fact that I’ve been able to give so many other parents independence that I’ll never have is such a joy for me – it really is.

“That’s the bit that gives me goosebumps. The kids are always going to be great. Once they come in, I know they are going to go out with the most amount of independence they are going to have in their lives. It’s a beautiful program. I’m so proud of it and I’m so proud of the people who work in it.”

Passionate about eradicating every stereotype about people over the age of 50, Kae says it’s time to recognise the value this generation brings to the business community.

Next Generation Influencers

Harnessing the voice and power of the over 50 community to influence change

Introducing Paul Whinnett and Kae Bullock. With over 90 years of business experience between them, Paul has worked in the corporate arena for over 15 years and ran his own business for 35 years, while Kae’s background includes 40 years as a business owner in consumer related industries, with the past 20 years developing a very successful online business.

The savvy duo has now turned their focus to revising the stereotypical way organizations engage and market to the 50 plus community. “As members of the over 50 demographic we can see how marketing these days appears to have an ageing blind spot, and as a result, many businesses and government bodies are not engaging this audience well,” says Kae.

Paul and Kae are determined to disrupt this sector by engaging the over 50 community to be part of the solution. Their business model will help all facets of business and government understand this specialised niche market and give a voice and platform to the over 50 community.

“The number of Australians aged 50 plus is obviously increasing, as is their lifestyle and a lot of them are embracing life with ambitions, purpose, and money in their pockets,” says Paul.

“According to the 2018 Financial Wellbeing report by RMIT and ANZ, older Australians have better financial stability than the rest of the population. Yet it is nearly impossible to find organizations that understand this high value audience. This is all the more surprising when you realize the unrivalled opportunity that their massive purchasing power provides.”

With a clear understanding of how vital it is to engage this audience; Paul recognises the need to utilise the experience and wealth of knowledge of this growing demographic.

“Engaging the over 50 community to help gather market intelligence is crucial in helping us understand their needs, how they want to be perceived, their preferences and purchasing habits,” he says.

Passionate about eradicating every stereotype about people over the age of 50, Kae says it’s time to recognise the value this generation brings to the business community.

“We need to recognise that they are connected, that they make their own decisions, and that they dislike being labelled,” says Kae. “Ignoring them is a mistake, as is portraying them with bland imagery or presuming they are nearing the end of their life. Seeing advertisements with active seniors enjoying life in a residential facility doesn’t relate to the audience because the majority who are active don’t see themselves in residential care. In what is a highly tough and ever-changing marketplace, that might be a very costly communications blunder,” she says.

The 50+ influencer marketing platform is designed to help businesses and government better understand their over 50 audience and it gives the 50 plus community the opportunity to participate in product trials, test consumer engagement and service provision, sit on committees, partake in research, engage on social media platforms, undertake surveys, review products, and give organizations valuable insight to effectively engage their audience.

If you want to be part of this exciting platform register your interest at www.50plusinfluencer.com.au

When people think of influencer, they often consider it the domain of the 18- to 29-year-olds. However, there is a dynamic generation that controls 46% of our disposable income and has 50% of our private wealth, who needs to be acknowledged and understood.

Shining her light

A long-time advocate of the small business community on the Sunshine Coast, we catch up with Leanne Layfield about how she is enjoying her “retirement” and were not surprised to discover she hasn’t quite hung up a few of her many hats just yet.

She has been a familiar smiling face at the many networking and business events on the Sunshine Coast over the years. And although she has officially retired from her role at the helm of the Caloundra Chamber of Commerce, Leanne Layfield continues to support local businesses and share her knowledge and passion for community with the younger generation.

Hailing from a background in tourism, Leanne has always extolled the virtues of small businesses and the important role they play in economic development and community prosperity.

Initially specialising in destination marketing and development, her passion for the Sunshine Coast Region and its people has always been at the heart of who she is.

“One of my most memorable career highlights was in 2000 when I was working for Tourism Sunshine Coast (now Visit Sunshine Coast) when we won the Queensland Tourism award for destination marketing. We put an enormous amount of work into the nomination and were over the moon to be recognised among our peers and other regional tourism organisations,” says Leanne.

But it was her role as Executive Chair of the Caloundra Chamber of Commerce that was perhaps the most rewarding of her esteemed career.

“The six years I managed the Caloundra Chamber and achieving 500 members was the real highlight of my career,” says Leanne.

“Those members were people who were part of our tribe. We valued each and every one of them individually and personally.

“I worked with a phenomenal group of people in an incredibly dynamic organisation. A membership-based organisation always keeps you on your toes and I loved every minute of it.”

However, in 2018, it was time for Leanne to hand the baton over to allow her to spend more quality time with her family and her husband who had recently retired. And although she is no longer officially employed, it comes as no surprise to those who know her that Leanne continues to support the business community today.

“I felt there was no way to do the job other than giving it 100 per cent or not at all,” says Leanne. “My husband was scaling back his building business and we wanted to travel more, so I decided to retire. As much as I was happy to walk away from paid employment, I still have a lot of drive and a lot of connections and interest to continue to support the business community.”

These days, when she is not travelling around Australia in her caravan or spending time with her new grandchild, Leanne continues to give her time and expertise to several organisations including the Sunshine Coast Chamber Alliance, Regional Development Australia Sunshine Coast and is on the advisory board for Your Employment Solutions and The Community Collective QLD.

Still heavily involved at the grass roots level of the 4556 Chamber, Leanne says she has been a supporter of notfor-profits for as long as she can remember.

“I have always been involved in some sort of not-forprofit community organisation because I have always liked to give back, that is part and parcel of who I am.

“I thrive on activity and engagement, conversation and connections. I’m an inquisitive person so it satisfies my curiosity of what’s going on.

“It’s a very full life but it keeps me very happy.”

Her advice to other senior members in our community looking for ways to engage with the community is to find something that connects with your heart.

“Do something you are passionate about, the reward is really significant. It makes you feel whole, and you can still contribute in a valuable way to your community,” says Leanne.

No matter how busy her life gets, something tells me this go-getter won’t be hanging up those hats any time soon!

Words Ingrid Nelson

“Do something you are passionate about, the reward is really significant. It makes you feel whole, and you can still contribute in a valuable way to your community.”

Photo Empire Art Photography

Never say ‘Never’ to Priscilla

When Priscilla Macmillan fell off her horse four years ago, she was told she would never ride or walk again. She sold her beloved grey Arab, Slipper, and beautiful 700acre cattle property, Braeside, in Kilcoy, which she ran almost single-handedly, and moved to Buderim, to embrace a new, more sedentary lifestyle.

Following spinal surgery, four months of rehab and absolute fierce determination, she learnt to walk again and, after a year, felt fit enough to tackle the 1000km celebrated sacred pilgrims’ path in Spain, the Camino, from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela – alone.

“Being told I would never walk again was like a red rag to a bull,” the grandmother of five and former nurse recalls.

The following year, just before her 70th birthday, she climbed to Base Camp in Nepal, and although she had earlier conquered nearby Annapurna in the Himalayas, admits this Mt Everest climb was the hardest thing she had ever done. “But once I could walk again, there was no stopping me,” she insists.

In July this year, sleeping under the stars with meals cooked in a camp oven, she walked 150kms from Cloncurry to Mt Isa in a Walk, Ride or Run for Palliative Care initiative raising more than $7,000 to fund cuddle beds for the Mt Isa Hospital.

Growing up on a wheat and cattle property in Outback Queensland in the tiny township of North Star – between Goondiwindi and Moree, Priscilla, the eldest of four, was always a “self-starter, a doer and was always fairly organised,” she says. “You had to be living on the land.” She still lives by the adage: If you can, you should.

Over the years, the energetic mother of three strapping sons (she lost a daughter at just 13-months-old with a congenital heart defect), became a fine horsewoman, qualifying in 2016 for the 2019 event of the country’s most prestigious endurance horse ride, the Tom Quilty Gold Cup. This gruelling 24-hour event is one of the biggest endurance rides in the southern atmosphere attracting more than 400 riders from across the country over a distance of 160kms. But of course, she could not compete – a decision that still haunts her.

“Slipper taught me everything I knew about endurance riding,” she laments, “but of course, I had to sell her.” She has, however, kept in touch with the new owner.

Not one to sit still, Priscilla is already planning next year’s adventure: walking the 5,330km Bicentennial National Trail from Cooktown in northern Queensland to Healesville, in Victoria. And in a lightbulb moment, she’s recruited Slipper, who will be 14 by then, to accompany her on the year-long trek as her packhorse.

“So, we’ll be back together again,” beams a very happy Priscilla at the mere thought. “I just love her.”

“Being told I would never walk again was like a red rag to a bull.”

Words and Photography Tricia Welsh

What… five weddings and a funeral?

I wanted a better life – with a perfect family, white picket fence and beautiful children. So, at 19 I married the only man who asked me. He was 10 years older and provided the sperm for my three beautiful children. Sadly, 20 years of abuse meant there were no picket fences or happy endings.

Words Lyn Traill

But thankfully, I wasn’t to die wondering. I escaped and got an inkling about what ‘in love’ meant. That first taste did not last and I raced into a second marriage. It wasn’t a good sign when his girlfriend turned up on our honeymoon. He said I was the only person he knew that could walk across a road and have an adventure – and he didn’t mean it as a compliment.

Husband number three appeared on the scene – a handsome sea captain. This was going to be THE ONE. I realised too late that he really wasn’t into women but we gave it a good go.

I thought I was done, but my daughter put me on a dating site against my wishes. A persistent man told me that we should definitely meet. Three weeks later he asked me to marry him and magically, I at last found what real love was all about. Alas, no happy endings because he died of a brain tumour after eight wonderful years. Now my history became - “Four Weddings and a Funeral”.

I am grateful for the amazing experiences I’ve had –the good, bad and the ugly. I wrote a book about grief, Rainbows through Cobwebs and soldiered on. But once again, as I approached my seventy-ninth birthday, I met an interesting man, completely different from any other.

There is so much more that I could write, but suffice to say, it didn’t take long for me to find that he was the first man who ticked every box that I had formulated at some time. It was a match and exactly a year after we met, he proposed.

Before number four departed I wrote a book called Sizzling at Seventy. What great years they were. My last words in the book were, “I wonder what I will be doing at 80.” Now I know and I feel like a teenager, I have never been so happy.

So, Mum, I have loved and lost a few. I believe what is leading me to this wonderful fifth marriage is that I have always moved on. I’ve learnt to understand myself, laugh a lot, got rid of victimhood and kept on learning – never giving up.

I wonder what the title of my next book will be?

As a kid, my mother told me that no decent man would ever want me. I didn’t set out to prove her wrong but I reckon I have.

A winning recipe!

There is nothing quite as comforting as sharing a hot scone and a cuppa with friends, but former restaurateur, chef and well-known local foodie, Martin Duncan has taken the age-old tradition to new heights by reconnecting the community and combatting isolation and loneliness among our seniors through his regular Sconetime events.

Martin’s monthly morning teas, held in various locations around the Sunshine Coast was launched in June 2018. Sconetime quickly became a hit with seniors who come along regularly to enjoy his delicious scones topped with lashings of jam and cream, served on china cups and plates, in landmark venues across the Coast including the famous Bankfoot House in Glass House Mountains. Most importantly though, it’s a chance for seniors to leave the house, socialise, meet new friends and enjoy an hour or two of banter.

Well known for his vibrant nature and love of supporting local businesses in our region, Martin was inspired to launch Sconetime after hearing of a 96-year-old woman in Scotland who, having lost her husband some 15 years ago, had not been left the house for many years. In desperation, she started hosting morning teas to meet other people, which proved to be life-changing for her and many others.

“It’s very powerful,” says Martin. “I can think of one gentleman who hadn’t been out of the house for two years since his wife passed, now he comes along regularly.

“It was a real lightbulb moment for me,” says Martin. “I thought to myself, I can do that.”

Since launching Sconetime, Martin has heard countless stories of how the morning teas are making a huge difference in our community by providing a platform for those who may otherwise have no interaction with others from one end of the week to the other.

“It’s very powerful,” says Martin. “I can think of one gentleman who hadn’t been out of the house for two years since his wife passed, now he comes along regularly.

Another 94-year-old lady has only missed one since it began. She comes along on her Zimmer frame, has a scone and a cuppa and then does her shopping.

“I’ve also got a couple of girls who come from Coolum to Cooroy every month. They do a shop and Sconetime and then finish with a beverage at the RSL.”

And if the smiles on the faces of those attending a recent Sconetime event at Caloundra CWA are anything to go by, Martin has most certainly created a winning recipe for success.

Just ask long-time Caloundra resident, 89-year-old Pat. “I love coming along to Sconetime. I think it’s a wonderful way to build integration,” she says. “I’ve lived in Caloundra for 50 years and I used to be a member of CWA in Victoria.”

Words Ingrid Nelson

No stranger to what makes a great scone, Pat was the owner of a bakehouse in Caloundra in the 1970’s. “When the new Henzells building was built I was the first one who went in there,” she says.

For CWA Caloundra President Jill Ware, providing a space for these special social events is what the association is all about.

“We have so much to offer. We host sewing classes for adults and children. Cake decorating classes, craft, there is something for everyone,” says Jill. “It’s such a wonderful hall and we are delighted to be able to open it up for Sconetime. It’s great to see the connections made at the morning teas.”

As Sconetime continues to expand, Martin is hoping to get more bakeries and businesses on board to make the scones (with his recipe of course) and have a big enough supply of china wear and cutlery to stock each venue.

“I have provided a lot of the china myself, which I have collected over the years and we have had some wonderful people supply some as well,” says Martin. “It would be great to have enough so that we don’t have to pack and unpack after every Sconetime.”

And when it comes to volunteers, Martin says although he is blessed to have many local business owners who donate their time to the wonderful cause, there is always room for more in the Sconetime family.

MARTIN’S SCONE RECIPE (Makes 20-24)

- Set the oven to 180 degrees (fan-forced).

- Mix wet ingredients: 1 egg, 2 1/2 cups milk, 1 cup of yoghurt and 1 tsp vanilla essence.

- Grate 125g chilled salted butter, then hand rub it into 1kg self-raising flour and 1 1/2 tsp baking powder.

- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, without over-mixing them. Add more milk if required for a moist dough.

- Pat the dough onto a floured board and chop it into pieces.

- Bake for 15 minutes.

- Top with lashings of jam and cream.

- Enjoy!

For more information on when and where the next Sconetime will be held or to offer your time as a volunteer go to: www.sconetime.com.au.

Martin Duncan with two of his volunteers Olivia Sainsbury and Di Olsen.

Admitting she didn’t know everything when it came to running a business, Ellie credits a large part of her success to the Sunshine Coast Chamber Alliance Business Mentor Group.

Photo: Empire Art Photography

Mentor Lesley Lalley with Ellie Degraeve

A helping hand for small businesses

Words Ingrid Nelson

It’s no secret that the Sunshine Coast is a mecca for start-up businesses. In fact, revered demographer Bernard Salt dubbed our region as the entrepreneurial capital of Australia!

However, the sobering reality is that 50 per cent of small businesses fail within the first five years of operation and the main reason is lack of leadership, poor management and lack of planning.

Fortunately, thanks to the Sunshine Coast Chamber Alliance Business Mentoring Program, local business owners on the Sunshine Coast have access to a plethora of support and advice from experienced retired and semi-retired mentors who can help them achieve business goals and discover how to improve, grow, overcome barriers, and leverage opportunities.

Local mother-of-two Ellie Degraeve, who launched her zero-toxins, zero-plastic business Go For Zero three years ago is just one business who has benefitted greatly from the program.

Frustrated that her daughter’s skin was reacting badly to soaps and creams, Ellie started researching mainstream ingredients and what they do to our body. Shocked by the lack of regulation and amount of chemicals in products, she was driven to provide products that are safer for our people and our planet.

Sourcing products that are toxin-free, sustainably packaged and owned by Aussie families, the business quickly grew from her spare bedroom and a pop-up store in Caloundra to a warehouse with over 1000 products.

Admitting she didn’t know everything when it came to running a business, Ellie credits a large part of her success to the Sunshine Coast Chamber Alliance Business Mentoring Program. Her mentors helped structure her business so she could expand and develop and as a result, Go For Zero has gone from strength to strength.

“I have two great mentors who were specifically chosen to match my business,” says Ellie. “We meet monthly and run through the numbers and evaluate strategies.

“It’s fantastic, because as a startup, you work a lot in your business, but these meetings help me to stop, step out and look back.”

With more than 40 years of knowledge and experience running a business, Lesley Lalley is one of Ellie’s mentors and says she is delighted to be able to give back to the community.

“We have 28 mentors all together, with 1000 years of business experience between us,” says Lesley.

“Most of us are retired and passionate about helping young people. For every one of our mentors, their biggest thrill is seeing the business flourish. I get a real buzz from seeing their faces light up when they discover some new ideas that they may not have thought of.”

At a cost of just $200 per year, Ellie was so excited with the growth and help she received from the mentor group, she decided to expand her original 12 month membership for a further year.

And with so many new businesses needing assistance, Lesley says the group is looking for at least another 12 mentors to join the program.

If you would like to share your knowledge and experience to help shape the future of entrepreneurs on the Sunshine Coast, visit: www.mentoringusnshinecoast.com.au

BGV Community Garden

Words and Photography Tricia Welsh

What started out as sweeping manicured lawn under a beautiful fig tree at the Buderim Gardens Retirement Village (BGV), is gradually being transformed into a thriving community garden providing residents with not only fresh produce, but gentle exercise and improved well-being as well.

Pendulous purple eggplant, firm green capsicum, vibrant red radish, plump rockmelon, sweetcorn, carrots, spinach, beans and peas all flourish in above-ground garden beds. Nearby, a flurry of herbs scent the air, while planted along the rear is a line-up of fruit trees – limes, lemon, orange, mandarin, lemonadeand a bay leaf shrub.

Set on 70 acres of parkland and forest, the BGV was opened in 1971. “It’s the oldest self-funded retirement village in Australia,” points out instigator of the community garden, avid ‘green thumb’ resident Priscilla Macmillan. “But this is the first time it’s had such a community project.”

Following a residents’ meeting to gauge interest in the project, a committee was formed with some 30 enthusiastic volunteers – most of them keen gardeners themselves, who have helped dig holes, prepare the garden beds for planting and fertilised them with worm castings and cow manure -- all done with the help of the Buderim Gardens on-site gardener. Buderim Gardens also ran an underground irrigation system to water the plants.

While the committee was working towards setting up a watering roster, it seems some volunteers were so keen they were killing the plants with kindness by overwatering. It was decided to give the daily chore to Norm, who, at 89, is one of the oldest and keenest residents.

The project was officially launched by local Buderim MP, Brent Mickelberg on May 1, 2021. The committee recently applied for a $10,000 grant to help finance a worm farm, extra garden beds and a shed.

Once the worm farm is established, it is proposed to feed them with recycled kitchen vegetable waste from potentially 400 homes in the village community, while also helping eliminate landfill.

Priscilla recently bought a bright yellow 1979 Suzuki ute - number plate Bill 21 (to honour its original owner). Bill 21 will be used for garden chores: picking up mulch, bales of hay, and to collect veggie scraps on a regular, scheduled basis from the wide-spread village residences.

The long-term vision is to cover the entire grassed area leading up to the village’s community centre with garden beds growing seasonal vegetables, so residents can harvest and purchase vegetables for a gold coin donation.

Committee secretary, Celia Howat, says: “The project is bringing people together with the common theme of gardening. Our passion is gardening, growing and producing – everyone has the same goal.

“Eventually, I’d like to see people having picnics here, using the fresh garden produce,” she adds.

“The project is bringing people together with the common theme of gardening.”

BGV Community Garden committee secretary Celia Howat

Closing the Gap

Words Ingrid Nelson

They say it takes a village to raise a child, but it also takes a village to help create a community where we feel valued and fulfilled as we navigate our transition years, pre-and post-retirement.

Our longer lifespans are allowing us many more years to enjoy the things we have always wanted to do. We have the power to work together within our community and with various stakeholders to disrupt the thinking around ageing and create an innovative environment where people have the freedom to reimagine and embrace their later years.

And, given the largest population increase on the Sunshine Coast over the next 20 years will be those aged 75 and over, it is more important than ever that we work together as a community to create an environment where people don’t just age well but thrive.

According to the World Health Organization, we need to create physical and social environments that promote healthy ageing and a good quality of life for people in old age.

To achieve this, eight age- friendly domains need to be addressed. They include housing, social participation, transport, outdoor spaces and building, communication and information, community support and health service, diversity and culture, civic participation and engagement.

We invited leaders on the Sunshine Coast to share their thoughts on how well we as a community are performing against these domains. Knowing our weakness and strengths is the first step toward making the Sunshine Coast the most age friendly region in Australia.

Joining us for a Leaders at Lunch at Market Bistro Maroochydore was Liberal National Party Member for Queensland, Ted O’Brien; owner and Director of Home Care Assistance, Kendall Moreton; Maroochydore Chamber of Commerce board member, Mathew Walker; Director of Poole and Partners Investment Services, Kirk Jarrott; Clinical and Social Gerontologist Tanya Dave; Director of Sage Care Advice, Bruce Baynes; CEO of COTA Queensland, Mark Tucker-Evans; and Dr Amanda Clacy from Vitality Village and Be Community and Aged Care.

Ted O’Brien - Liberal National Party Member, Queensland

Civic participation is a real concern of mine. In the early 2000s people complained that only 18 per cent of the community got involved in civic participation, and it’s now only about nine per cent. However, it’s one of the relative strengths on the Sunshine Coast, particularly for seniors including the men with whom I have had a lot to do through the Men’s Sheds in the region. Given the onset of COVID-19, a lot of the church networks have become less available, which has impacted seniors and it’s more important than ever they stay connected. This can be difficult for older people the more digital we get, and I’m excited about how we can improve that. The more we can empower local communities to wrap support around each other saves people falling through the cracks. My greatest fear is that breakdown. Empowering people locally to strengthen the bonds and help each other out and have a voice, that is pretty powerful stuff. There is something in the DNA culturally in our region that allows people to help each other. If I had a magic wand, I would love to take away the anxiety that a senior citizen feels when they need to reach out for basic advice. Whether it’s waiting to get through to Centrelink, or receiving a bill they don’t understand, or their computer crashes, and they don’t know how to fix it, anxiety about COVID -19… I would love to be able to eradicate that. But we don’t have to try and solve all problems at once.

One step at a time usually works best, and here’s one that we can all do: each of us can pick up the phone and ring a loved one or an old friend with whom we haven’t spoken for some time, and simply say “Hello”. At the end of the day, we all need each other and the smallest of gestures can mean a great deal.

Mark Tucker-Evans - CEO, COTA

One of the areas we are concerned about is ageism. Unfortunately, it is still alive and well within all of our communities Australia-wide and world-wide. It’s one of the least sexy “isms” but unfortunately, it is still prevalent. Ageism is a great opportunity for us as a society to respond to.

Older workers are not recognised in many industries, and I believe people are still being encouraged to retire earlier than they should, given that we are living much longer. When the pension first came about you were lucky to reach 65. These days, we are living 20 years past that, so how do we ensure we are in fact looking at that and planning our longevity? We need to look at ageing as a life-long adventure.

Kendall Moreton - Director of Home Care Assistance

We are starting to see the effects of unaffordable housing for older people -- it’s very expensive to live here. We are seeing people in their 80’s move back into a share house situation, which is less than ideal. I believe the Sunshine Coast has amazing opportunities for older people to access and participate in. A lot of volunteer groups will even pick them up and drop them home. I think we are very strong on community connection. However, I think we need to get all stakeholders and policy makers on the same page about quality of life as we age and what is important to our seniors.

Kirk Jarrott - Director of Poole and Partners Investment Service

Over the years we have seen our clients move through various stages in life. The financial implications of these stages can be challenging and also rewarding if the right steps are taken early in life’s journey. This is an area we need to address. The old adage of saving 10 per cent of your income is about right when it comes down to affording retirement living. The more you save for retirement the more options you have.

On the Sunshine Coast we are fortunate to have so many lifestyle options in the aged care/retirement space. For people to enjoy these lifestyle options they need to have an income source. For many, planning for the financial side of retirement can be confusing. We are fortunate to have quality advisers who can assist with aged care planning and retirement strategies. From our perspective, we like to keep financial affairs as simple as possible and break down the complex array of financial terms and calculations into simple examples that everyone can understand.

Mathew Walker - Maroochydore Chamber Of Commerce

In my previous role as community and wellbeing manager in the aged care sector, I witnessed a great deal of isolation and people ending up living in squalor. We had one instance where someone who was isolated passed away on Friday and no one was made aware until Monday.

Another challenge is unemployment. We are seeing an increase in the number of people aged 55-64 unable to find work. COVID has made it hard for many. We need to create employment pathways and provide support. Having leaders come together like this, is important. We need to set goals each year and collaborate to address them.

Tanya Dave - Gerontologist, IAgeWell

On the Sunshine Coast our seniors are very active and community orientated. I have come across many examples where members have seen an issue and created a solution not just for themselves but for others. Our 2019 award recipients are great examples of that. Shirley who has Parkinson’s disease saw the need for a Parkinson’s support group in Caloundra so, with the help of her husband, they created it. The same goes for Vince and Lorrae who established Carers Outlook. Vince’s wife had dementia and he was her carer. He saw first-hand how difficult the journey was for a carer. When his wife passed away he, along with Lorrae, set up Carers Outlook. Today their work has helped so many people on the coast. Niether Shirley nor Vince was given any funding to start these engagement platforms. They did it out of love. These are just some of many. We need to give a platform to our senior community. With their support we can tackle isolation, improve civic participation and improve communication. COTA had a great peer educator program of which I was part and it worked so well. Areas we need to look at urgently is social housing. Older people with chronic health issues living among people who are abusive is not good at all. The stories I hear can be quite confronting and attempts to move them from this situation have fallen on deaf years. The system is under enormous pressure.

Dr Amanda Clacy - Vitality Village and Be

The biggest issue we see is access to service. In some areas, there is a shortage of care staff which impedes our ability to deliver care. In other areas, there is a demand for services but no funding available to deliver it. It certainly is a challenge at the moment. At Be we choose to look beyond how things are, to how much better they can be. We provide a range of services designed to support older people to remain living in their own home and support their independence and social connections within the community. Vitality Village is a joint partnership project of Be’s and private investors. Partnerships and collaboration are at the heart of Vitality Village. Vitality Village came from a desire to create solutions to some of our communities’ biggest health and wellbeing challenges. As the saying goes, ‘a problem shared is a problem halved’, and that’s where you come in! We’re creating an environment for our tenants or ‘Villagers’ to identify and deliver significant improvements to health care, through collaboration between health providers, innovators, researchers and the community.

Bruce Baynes - Director of Sage Care Advice

Regarding residential aged care, I did a lot of research to see what was available throughout the Sunshine Coast region and discovered there is far more choice of care facilities than any other region I have found in Australia. Within 20 kilometres of our business premises in Maroochydore, there are 40 residential aged care facilities alone. That tells me there is a real need for them on the Sunshine Coast. That is not surprising given that people over 65 years of age make up one quarter of the population. In terms of improvement, I would love to see an aged care dedicated hotline for Services Australia (formerly Centrelink), to help older people navigate the system. Transportation is another concern on the coast. We are building all this new infrastructure with limited parking available, and we need more transport options, especially for the elderly. I love the idea of what Sundale is doing to support women. We need to start addressing that more. Connection is so important too. I am part of the Healthy Ageing Partnership on the Sunshine Coast. We held a morning tea recently which was so well received. We need more of that. Communication in this digital age is another issue. I have enough trouble with my iPhone, and I just turned 60. Imagine trying to make an application online or scan documents required, for someone who is older. It needs to be addressed! If I could give a message to the elderly, it would be that aged care is affordable to everyone.

MARKET BISTRO Leaders at Lunch restaurant review

and operated by hospitality veterans Tony Kelly, Luke Stringer and Peter Marchant, the muchanticipated Market Bistro in the emerging Maroochy CBD was destined to be a huge success story from the moment it opened its doors last year.

Owned

A quintessential European-style bistro and market wine store, offering a classic bistro menu featuring housemade pasta, a great selection of dry aged meats and export quality local seafood. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a great meal with an exceptional selection of wines to match every dish.

On the day of our mid-week, lunch-time visit, the restaurant was buzzing, with locals enjoying the relaxed vibe and delicious menu.

Restaurant manager Luke Stringer designed a delicious two-course menu for our leaders at lunch which really showcased the fresh, local produce prepared by revered chef Harry Lilai – who brings a passion for homemade, traditional European food.

With choices including seared tuna or smoked mortadella for entrée and gnocchi with gorgonzola cream or roasted quail for main, guests were spoiled for choice and judging by the empty plates around the table, they didn’t disappoint. I can vouch for the seared tuna and gnocchi, both of which were an explosion of flavour.

Lunch was perfectly matched with wines by sommelier Peter Marchant, who brings his vast knowledge of wines to Market Wine Store which is constantly evolving and features predominantly Australian and New Zealand wines.

Winelovers can buy wines from the adjacent wine store at retail prices to enjoy in the bistro for a small corkage fee.

Market Bistro is perfect for a special romantic dinner, lunch-time date with friends or after work cocktails with shared plates.

Entrée

Vitello Tonnato – seared tuna, poached veal, tuna mayonnaise or

LP’s smoked mortadella, peppered lavosh, truffle pecorino

Main

Gnocchi with gorgonzola cream, shaved pear and walnuts or

Roasted quail with chorizo sausage, grapes and green chilli

www.marketbistro.com.au

A Second Calling

Call it a second act or an encore career, an increasing number of retirees or those over 55 are considering launching a second career in their 60’s, 70’s and beyond. We catch up with three savvy local women who have done just that and are helping others to follow their dreams no matter how old they are.

With longer life expectancy and technology allowing more opportunities to create your own business or work from home or anywhere, the world is your oyster when it comes to following your passion towards a new career path at any age.

Regardless of how old we are, we all have a desire to be of value, have purpose and contribute to society. Whether it’s a desire to stay active and engaged with the community, pursue a long-deferred dream or earn some extra money without the rigid nine-to-five daily grind, there are plenty of ways for those in a mature age bracket to use their expertise and experience to try something completely different later in life.

Perhaps you already have a skill set that can become a new career, or a hobby that you could turn into a profitable business. Maybe you have always wanted to teach others what you have learned in your field. The great advantage of retirement is the chance to do what you love with your time.

If you are lucky enough to retire at 55 or 60, there are still many years ahead to enjoy a whole new chapter. Ingrid Nelson caught up with three women over 55, who have created a fulfilling second career by following their heart and turning their passion into a successful business.

These are their stories.

Words Ingrid Nelson

Justine-Murray Easton

When73-year-old Justine-Murray Easton tells people her age, the response is always one of surprise given her youthful appearance and vibrant persona. A travel agent for many years, Justine left the travel industry 10 years ago to follow her love of helping people discover her secrets to healthy ageing. Having used a particular skin care range for more than 10 years for which she credits her youthful skin, Justine decided to start sharing the benefits with others through a network marketing scheme and has created a successful business as well as discovered tremendous personal growth.

“It’s quite different to corporate-type work or the travel industry where you work for someone else, you have to be a self-starter,” says Justine. “It has really built my confidence and belief in myself, and I am continually learning, which I love.”

Challenging herself to learn more about social media and utilising it to grow her network and business is something of which Justine is particularly proud.

“Even if you take baby steps like me, overcoming these challenges is so rewarding,” says Justine.

Cheryl Nonmus

59-yearold Cheryl Nonmus swapped her professional camera for a paint brush, she discovered a whole new side to herself and is now helping others find their creative streak and connect with the community through her art and pottery classes.

Finding it increasingly difficult to compete with the new era of technology, where iPhone cameras have become so advanced and people are seeking instant photos to upload to their website and social media, Cheryl decided to switch careers and utilize her skills as a former art teacher to start a new business.

“I had trained as an art teacher and I think my calling in life is sharing what I know. That just makes me feel really good. It’s an important part of my DNA,” says Cheryl. “Teaching fills my cup emotionally and socially and the classes bring people a lot of joy.”

An advocate for healthy ageing, Justine also credits plenty of exercise and a good diet for her youthful appearance.

“I do Nia and Pilates and I am about to start Yoga,” says Justine. “My husband and I walk every morning, drink two litres of water a day and have protein with every meal. It’s also important to eat plenty of fresh vegetables.”

And when it comes to her work, it doesn’t sound like this powerhouse has any intention of slowing down soon.

“I don’t consider it work. I love what I do. As long as I can keep helping people, I will just keep doing it.”

WhenWorking from her home studio, Cheryl has created a successful business offering a range of art and pottery classes for adults and children and finds great joy in watching people discover or rediscover their love of art. “I see a lot of people who have not touched a paintbrush since school, and they are inquisitive to see if they can pick it up again. They reconnect with their artistic side and learn some new skills and techniques along the way,” she says.

Cheryl’s advice to those who are considering a second career is to start slowly and be patient with the growth of a new business.

“Start with your circle of friends, utilize social media and ask your friends to share too.

It’s not always instant; it does take time. Remember it takes five to seven connections with businesses before people reach out.”

Robyn Robertson

Ahair and beauty expert for more than four decades, mum of four and grandmother of five, 59-year-old Robyn Robertson has reinvented herself many times throughout her career. From running her own hair salons to training apprentices to developing a niche in the wedding industry, she is now at a stage where she has created a life she loves and is teaching others how to do the same.

“I recognised I am a real visionary,” says Robyn. “I visualise what I want and make it happen through seeing, believing, and creating it.”

Always one to continue learning, Robyn took part in a course on teaching vision board workshops and discovered a whole new path towards helping women find their voice.

“I absolutely loved it because the women really discovered something about themselves that they hadn’t really given any thought to - what they wanted in life, their values, priorities and what else they want to fit into their lives,” she says.

However, when COVID shut down Robyn’s workshops, she was tested to reinvent herself yet again.

“I had to look at how I could move forward, so I decided to take the girls who did the workshop to another level through coaching,” says Robyn.

Some of the benefits of a second career over 55

• Creates a greater sense of purpose and direction

• Provides a stable routine

• The opportunity to try new jobs and industries which you may have always wanted to try

• Extra income to supplement your super

• Keeps your mind active

• Cures boredom

• Provides an opportunity to pass on your skills/teach a younger generation

• Working, even in small amounts, makes you appreciate your time off a lot more

• Good opportunity to socialise and meet new people

“Through that I realised that women aged 45 to 65 are recognising that they still have so much to offer but they are not quite sure or lack the courage or confidence to give something new a try. They lacked the voice to rise up and have the courage to take it on.”

That is where Women Speak comes in -- a project Robyn is particularly passionate about.

“Woman Speak teaches women to find their voice, how to speak up and clarify their message. It’s a bit like Toastmasters but with a softer feminine approach, which I connect to. I have always worked with women, and this makes my heart sing.”

Spending time with her children and grandchildren is very important to Robyn and she thoroughly enjoys the flexibility and freedom of working her own hours to enjoy this special chapter in her life.

And when it comes to her advice for women who are considering a new career in their later years, Robyn says there is nothing holding you back.

“You can’t sit around. There is so much more out there. Reinventing yourself all starts with an idea.”

It’s never too late to find your dream job

With more than 16 years’ experience in recruitment management and human resources, Kate Langford knows a thing or two about what it takes to secure that dream job.

Now running her own career coaching business, Kate is using her wealth of knowledge to help her clients find a job they love, not just one they know.

“I always wanted to start my own business because I saw a real gap in the recruitment industry,” says Kate.

“There was always plenty of help for the employer but not so much the employee. I have a passion for helping people who want to change careers, to give them the confidence to discover their passion, and the skills they need to find a job they love,” she says.

With the majority of their clients in the 40-60 age bracket, Kate is particularly keen to help more mature employees’ transition into a new career, or perhaps reenter the workforce after a lengthy period or redundancy.

“Perhaps they have been in a job for a long time, and they are not happy but too scared to change course, or they are not ready to retire and are seeking a position where they can use their transferable skill set. Retirement age is now 65 not 55. At 55, you still have 10 years left, that’s time for a whole new career,” says Kate.

And just because you are over 55, doesn’t mean you are over the hill. In fact, Kate says an increasing number of employees are focusing on personality and culture fit rather than experience.

The secret, she says is all in the way you sell yourself.

“The way you present yourself in your resume and at the interview is so important,” says Kate.

“If you think you are too old for the job, they are going to think you are too old for the job.”

A prime example of finding a job you love, Kate says she has never been happier since starting her own consultancy and is testament that if you love what you do, you will never work another day in your life!

“It is the most rewarding job. When you can help people find their own strengths and realise their worth, it can be life changing for them. I love my work so much and I am so grateful I am in a position to do that.”

For a complimentary, obligation-free, 20-minute consolation with Kate as well as a free resume check, visit the website at: www.katelangford.com.au

Top tips on how to get that interview!

Be clear about what you really want: You need to know what you are aiming for so you can sway your application to suit that industry or skill set.

Stand out with your cover letter: A cover letter is really about grabbing attention, showcasing your personality and purpose, not just a repeat of your resumé.

Create a great resumé: You have 10 seconds to sell yourself in your resumé. It needs to be clear, concise and to the point. No more than three pages.

Words Ingrid Nelson

Not ready to retire but want something different?

At 72-years-old, Linda Ritchie is the first person to tell you the huge difference that meaningful work can make in later life.

Ms Ritchie works with STEPS Group Australia, a notfor-profit organization that helps individuals and communities find the opportunities that will let them shine.

As part of their immense portfolio, the organization helps people find roles that they love and secure satisfying career paths through their Dove Recruitment and STEPS Staffing Solutions agencies.

The two agencies offer a range of later life career opportunities where you have the chance to make a real difference every single day.

Whether someone is looking to change career paths, wants to utilize their extensive experience, or is searching for truly meaningful work, STEPS Staffing Solutions and Dove Recruitment are perfectly equipped to help.

For more information on STEPS Staffing Solutions and Dove Recruitment visit: www.stepsstaffingsolutions.com.au www.doverecruitment.com.au

“Working here gives me a purpose, it’s amazing to have a purpose that is fulfilling and fun in my later years.”

Things you should consider when looking for a retirement village to call home

Words Turner Freeman Lawyers

The Sunshine Coast region boasts access to sand, sea and hinterland landscapes, along with plenty of local attractions, business, healthcare and tourism. Why wouldn’t you want to retire to the area! There are many retirement villages to choose from in the region and people are understandably attracted to the lifestyle and community benefits of living in these villages.

That said, if things don’t work out, extremely high exit fees could leave you without enough money to seek alternative or more suitable accommodation. Retirement village contracts are complex and often differ with each village operator. These agreements have significant financial implications for individuals. Accordingly, it is imperative that you seek appropriate legal advice prior to signing any such agreement. Some key issues to be aware of when you are looking to enter any type of retirement living include:

• Type of contract – strata title, loan and licence or leasehold.

• Entry costs - is there a settling in period/cooling off period and if so, what are the terms?

• Ongoing costs – commonly a monthly fee. What does it cover? Services, maintenance, management fees? Are these ongoing if you move out or pass away?

• Exit fees - also known as deferred management fees. These are often very complex and can include one-off or annual charges over a period of time. What does the contract say about your capital gain/ loss entitlements?

• Future care - what services will be available to you (if needed) in terms of serviced apartments, community care packages, residential nursing home care.

Other general considerations might include the level of parking available, nearby facilities, whether you are able to make changes to the property, do they allow guests to stay, can you have a pet, the level of security provided, and whether the grounds are well maintained.

Speaking to an experienced lawyer will ensure you are fully informed prior to entering into any agreements with a retirement village, and can enjoy all the benefits they provide without concern and worry for your future.

Retirement living options

Retirement villages are designed to support you as you age while offering a sense of community. Village homes are usually leased, meaning you don’t own them. You pay what is known as an “ingoing contribution”, a lump sum paid when entering the facility. Upon departure your deferred management fee or departure fees are deducted from this payment. Under the tenure a monthly fee will apply. This is your contribution towards the maintenance costs of the village, such as mowing lawns, painting and cleaning carpets.

SUNSHINE COAST AND SURROUNDING AREAS

ALEXANDRA HEADLAND 4572

TANTULA RISE RETIREMENT LIVING

BRAND: BOLTON CLARK

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

96 Tantula Road

Alexandra Headland, QLD 4572

www.boltonclarke.com.au

Phone: 1300 221 122

BIRTINYA 4575

GLASSHOUSE VIEWS RETIREMENT VILLAGE

BRAND: MCKENZIE AGED CARE GROUP

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

96 Peachester Road

Beerwah, QLD 4519

Phone: 07 5436 5444

www.mckenzieacg.com.au

Phone: 1300 899 222

BLI BLI 4560

BLI BLI RETIREMENT VILLAGE

BRAND: BLUE CARE

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

36 Lefoes Road

Bli Bli, QLD 4560

Phone: 07 5448 4288

www.bluecare.org.au

Phone: 1800 990 446

BRITINYA, 4575

SHINE BIRTINYA

BRAND: STOCKLAND

3 Reflection Crescent

Birtinya, QLD 4575

www.stockland.com.au

Phone: 1800 727 170

BUDERIM, 4556

BUDERIM GARDENS RETIREMENT VILLAGE

BRAND: LENDLEASE

405 Mooloolaba Road

Buderim, QLD 4556

Phone: 07 5373 2200

www.retirementbylendlease.com.au

Phone: 1800 550 550

EDENLEA RETIREMENT VILLAGE

BRAND: EDENLEA

Cnr Burnett St & Townsend Rd

Buderim, Qld, 4556

Phone: 07 5476 8900

HIBISCUS BUDERIM MEADOWS

BRAND: LENDLEASE

183 Karawatha Drive

Buderim, QLD 4556

Phone: 07 5409 3700

www.retirementbylendlease.com.au

Phone: 1800 550 550

IMMANUEL GARDENS RETIREMENT

VILLAGE

BRAND: LUTHERAN SERVICES

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

10 Magnetic Drive

Buderim, Qld, 4556

www.lutheranservices.org.au

Phone: 1800 692 273

IRT THE PALMS

BRAND: IRT

22 Power Road

Buderim, QLD 4556

www.irt.org.au

Phone: 13 44 78

AVEO LINDSAY GARDENS

BRAND: AVEO

35 Lindsay Road

Buderim, QLD 4556

Phone: 07 5408 8224

www.aveo.com.au

Phone: 13 28 36

BURNSIDE, 4560

ROTARY GARDEN VILLAGE – BY SUNDALE

BRAND: SUNDALE

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

98 Windsor Road

Burnside, QLD 4560

Phone: 07 5453 8333

www.sundale.org.au

Phone: 1800 786 325

CALOUNDRA, 4551

BELLCARRA RETIREMENT RESORT

BRAND: STOCKLAND

17 Carree Street

Caloundra West, QLD 4551

Phone: 07 5499 6662

www.stockland.com.au

Phone: 1800 727 170

BLUE CARE CALOUNDRA

RETIREMENT VILLAGE

BRAND: BLUE CARE

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

55 Coolum St

Caloundra, Qld 4551

www.bluecare.org.au

Phone: 1800 990 446

KIRAMI RETIREMENT VILLAGE

BRAND: BLUE CARE

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

10 West Terrace

Caloundra, QLD 4551

www.bluecare.org.au

Phone: 1800 990 446

COOLUM, 4573

COOLUM WATERS – BY SUNDALE

BRAND: SUNDALE

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

4 Wembley Road

Coolum Beach, QLD 4573

Phone: 07 5455 1111

www.sundale.org.au

Phone: 1800 786 325

CURRIMUNDI, 4551

CURRIMUNDI GARDENS

RETIREMENT VILLAGE

BRAND: OZCARE

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

28 Saffron Dr

Currimundi, QLD 4551

www.ozcare.org.au

Phone: 1800 692 273

IRT PARKLANDS

BRAND: IRT

CALOUNDRA RETIREMENT VILLAGE

BRAND: BLUE CARE

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

55 Coolum Street

Dicky Beach, QLD 4551

www.bluecare.org.au

Phone: 1800 990 446

LITTLE MOUNTAIN, 4551

CALOUNDRA ADVENTIST

RETIREMENT VILLAGE

BRAND: ADVENTIST

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

64 Sunset Drive

Little Mountain, QLD 4551

Phone: 07 5491 3544

www.arplus.org.au

Phone: 07 3218 7777

CALOUNDRA RISE RETIREMENT

ESTATE

BRAND: SOUTHERN CROSS CARE

QLD

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

57 Village Way

Little Mountain, 4551

Phone: 07 5492 6866

www.sccqld.com.au

1800 899 300

MALENY, 4552

BLUE CARE BEN BRYCE

BRAND: BLUE CARE

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

1274 Landsborough Maleny Rd

Maleny, Qld, 4552

www.bluecare.org.au

Phone: 1800 990 446

LIVE LIFE VILLAGE MALENY GROVE

BRAND: LIVE LIFE COMMUNITIES

9 Palm Street

Maleny, QLD 4552

Phone: 07 5499 9299

www.livelifecommunities.com.au

Phone: 1300 556 575

MAROOCHYDORE, 4558

ALLORA GARDENS BRAND: LENDLEASE

22 Allora Drive

Maroochydore, QLD 4558

Phone: 07 5373 4200

www.retirementbylendlease.com.au

Phone: 1800 550 550

THE AVENUE MAROOCHYDORE BRAND: AURA HOLDINGS

32 Baden Powell Street

Maroochydore, QLD 4558

Phone 07 5404 9347

www.auraholdings.com.au

Phone: 07 3397 2930

MERIDIAN PLAINS, 4551

IRT WOODLANDS

BRAND: IRT

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

22 Lacebark Street

Meridan Plains, QLD 4551

www.irt.com.au

Phone: 13 44 78

MOOLOOLAH VALLEY, 4553

MOOLOOLAH GARDENS RETIREMENT RESORT

11 King Road

Mooloolah Valley, QLD 4553

Phone: 07 5436 7913

www.mooloolahgardens.com.au

NAMBOUR, 4560

HIBISCUS NAMBOUR

BRAND: LENDLEASE

55 Carter Road

Nambour, QLD 4560

Phone: 07 5345 8100

www.retirementbylendlease.com.au

Phone: 1800 550 550

LAUREL SPRINGS

18 Doolan St

Nambour, Qld, 4560

www.laurelsprings.com.au

Phone: 5441 4711

NAMBOUR GARDEN VILLAGE – BY SUNDALE BRAND: SUNDALE

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

35 Doolan Street

Nambour, QLD 4560

Phone: 07 5441 0700

www.sundale.org.au

Phone: 1800 786 325

SANCTUARY PARK RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

BRAND: CHURCHES OF CHRIST

44 Zealey Road

Nambour, QLD 4560

Phone: 07 5476 4657

www.cofc.com.au

Phone: 1800 199 740

NOOSAVILLE, 4566

NOOSA DOMAIN COUNTRY CLUB BRAND: COUNTRY CLUB LIVING

35 Walter Hay Drive

Noosaville, QLD 4566

Phone: 07 5341 6000

www.noosadomain.com.au

NOOSA WATERS RETIREMENT ESTATE

BRAND: SOUTHERN CROSS CARE QLD

39 Lake Weyba Road

Noosaville, QLD 4566

Phone: 07 5474 4480

www.sccqld.com.au

Phone: 1800 899 300

LAGUNA ESTATE RETIREMENT VILLAGE

BRAND: LAGUNA ESTATE NOOSA

13-21 Lake Weyba Road

Noosaville, QLD 4566

Phone: 07 5449 7770

www.lagunaretirementestate.com.au

Phone: 1800 012 049

PALMVIEW, 4553

PALMVIEW RETIREMENT VILLAGE

BRAND: AVEO

58 Harmony Boulevard

Palmview, QLD 4553

Phone: 07 5408 8224

www.aveo.com.au

Phone: 13 28 36

PALMWOODS, 4555

PALMWOODS GARDEN VILLAGE

– BY SUNDALE

BRAND: SUNDALE

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

61 Jubilee Drive

Palmwoods, QLD 4555

Phone: 07 5457 4444

www.sundale.org.au

Phone: 1800 786 325

PARREARRA, 4575

KAWANA ISLAND RETIREMENT

VILLAGE

BRAND: LIVING CHOICE

10 Marco Way

Parrearra, QLD 4575

Phone: 07 5437 7399

www.livingchoice.com.au

Phone: 1800 004 388

PERIGIAN SPRINGS, 4573

PEREGIAN SPRINGS COUNTRY CLUB

BRAND: AVEO

21 Gracemere Boulevard

Peregian Springs, QLD 4573

www.aveo.com.au

Phone: 13 28 36

SIPPY DOWNS, 4556

BELLFLOWER RETIREMENT RESORT

BRAND: LENDLEASE

118 Bellflower Road

Sippy Downs, QLD 4556

www.retirementbylendlease.com.au

Phone: 1800 550 550

HIBISCUS CHANCELLOR PARK

BRAND: LENDLEASE

52 University Way

Sippy Downs, QLD 4556

www.retirementbylendlease.com.au

Phone: 1800 550 550

TEWANTIN, 4565

BELLA NOOSA – BY SUNDALE

BRAND: SUNDALE

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

82/100 Mckinnon St

Tewantin, 4565

www.sundale.org.au

1800 786 325

HIBISCUS NOOSA OUTLOOK

BRAND: LENDLEASE

71 St. Andrews Drive

Tewantin, QLD 4565

www.retirementbylendlease.com.au

Phone: 1800 550 550

TWIN WATERS, 4564

TWIN WATERS RETIREMENT VILLAGE

BRAND: LIVING CHOICE

21 Baywater Drive

Twin Waters, QLD 4564

Phone: 07 5450 7833

www.livingchoice.com.au

Phone: 1800 004 388

WARANA, 4575

ELANDRA RETIREMENT VILLAGE

BRAND: BLUE CARE

AGED CARE FACILITY ONSITE

124 Nicklin Way

Warana, QLD 4575

www.bluecare.org.au

Phone: 1800 990 446

LAND LEASE COMMUNITIES/RESORT COMMUNITIES ON THE SUNSHINE COAST & NOOSA

This option is targeted at younger retirees, and it offers a great lifestyle with upmarket housing options. In this instance you own your own home but lease the land it sits on. If you want to sell you keep 100% of the sale.

BEERBURRUM, 4517

TWIN CEDARS

466 Steve Irwin Way

Beerburrum, QLD 4517

www.lifebeginsathalcyon.com.au

Phone: 07 3184 8432

BLI BLI, 4560

HALCYON LAKESIDE

1 Halcyon Way

Bli Bli, QLD 4560

www.lifebeginsathalcyon.com.au

Phone: 1800 626 488

HALCYON LANDING

27 Waigani Street

Bli Bli, QLD 4560

www.lifebeginsathalcyon.com.au

Phone: 1800 626 488

EDGEWATER

171-203 David Low Way

Bli Bli, QLD 4560

www.hometownaustralia.com.au

Phone: 07 5448 4950

CALOUNDRA, 4551

HALCYON PARKS

42 Meridan Way Caloundra, QLD 4551

www.lifebeginsathalcyon.com.au

Phone: 1800 626 488

COOROY, 4563

PALM LAKE RESORT - COOROYNOOSA

19 Trading Post Road

Cooroy, QLD 4563

www.palmlakeresort.com.au

Phone: 1800 885 851

FOREST GLEN, 4556

GREENWOOD FOREST GLEN

16 Grammar School Way

Forest Glen, QLD 4556

www.greenwoodforestglen.com.au

Phone: 1800 809 020

NATURE’S EDGE BUDERIM

25 Owen Creek Road

Forest Glen, QLD 4556

www.ingenialifestyle.com.au

Phone: 1800 135 010

LITTLE MOUNTAIN, 4551

PALM LAKE RESORT - CALOUNDRA

CAY

96 Village Way

Little Mountain, QLD 4551

www.palmlakeresort.com.au

Phone: 1800 556 677

MALENY,4552

LIVING GEMS MALENY

23 Macadamia Drive

Maleny, QLD 4552

www.livinggems.com.au

Phone: 07 5429 6108

MAROOCHYDORE,4558

GEMLIFE MAROOCHY QUAYS

6 Charleston Place

Maroochydore, QLD 4558

www.gemlife.com.au

Phone: 1800 193 177

MAROOCHY SHORES

319 Bradman Avenue

Maroochydore, Qld, 4558

www.hometownaustralia.com.au

Phone: 07 5443 8611

PACIFIC PARADISE, 4564

GEMLIFE PACIFIC PARADISE

26-40 Menzies Drive

Pacific Paradise, QLD 4564

www.gemlife.com.au

Phone: 1800 193 177

LIVING GEMS PACIFIC PARADISE

596 David. Low Way

Pacific Paradise, QLD 4564

www.livinggems.com.au

Phone: 1800 978 388

PALMWOODS,4555

GEMLIFE - PALMWOODS

38 Landershute Road

Palmwoods, QLD 4555

www.gemlife.com.au

Phone: 1800 193 177

RENTAL VILLAGES ON THE SUNSHINE COAST

Retirement communities where units are rented.

KOOKABURRA VILLAGE

13 Mark Road East

Caloundra West, QLD 4551

www.kookaburravillage.com.au

Phone: 07 5491 5888

SEASONS FLEXI LEASE SENIORS’ LIVING

FLEXI LEASE APARTMENTS AT CALOUNDRA

30 Baldwin Street

Golden Beach, QLD 4551

www.seasonsflexi.com.au

Phone: 07 5437 4900

SUNDALE WOOMBYE GARDENS

151 Nambour Connection Road

Woombye, QLD 4559

Phone: 07 5442 1621

www.sundale.org.au

Phone: 1800 786 325

SUNNYCOVE MAROOCHYDORE RETIREMENT VILLAGE

226 Yinni Street

Maroochydore, QLD 4558

Phone: 07 5451 1270

Mobile: 0434 717 959

VILLAGE GREEN

83 Lindsay Road

Buderim, Qld, 4556

Phone: 0429 508 705

ASSISTED LIVING OPTIONS ON THE SUNSHINE COAST

Independent living units where meals, basic housekeeping, laundry service and social activities are included.

AVEO GRACEMERE MANOR

BRAND: AVEO

21 Gracemere Blvd

Perigian Springs, QLD, 4573

www.aveo.com.au

Phone: 07 3559 2901

AVEO LINDSAY GARDENS BRAND: AVEO

35 Lindsay Rd

www.aveo.com.au

Phone: 07 3559 2901

FREEHOLD RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES ON THE SUNSHINE COAST

Retirement village where freehold is owned by purchaser.

LAUREL SPRINGS

18 Doolan St

Nambour, Qld, 4560

Phone: 5441 4711

VILLAGE GREEN

83 Lindsay Road

Buderim, Qld, 4556

Phone: 0429 508 705

Are you ready to make the right move?

‘Downsizing’, ‘right-sizing’, ‘retirement villages’, ‘over 55’s’, ‘lifestyle’ and ‘age-friendly communities’ are just a few of the words and phrases you hear when considering retirement living. Making the decision to take the next step towards your retirement lifestyle is not an easy one and the Retirement Living Council wants to help you make the best choice to ensure your future happiness and security.

Retirement villages are communities like any other, in the sense that people are simply going about their lives as they choose. The main difference is a retirement village community comprises people at a similar stage in life who are all seeking the kind of lifestyle that a retirement village offers.

Some people think that by moving to a retirement village they lose something – whether that’s independence, status or familiar social connections. The reality is actually very different. Some people head off to work as usual each day, while others enjoy a relaxed morning with the paper. Some people pop to the shops to prepare for a visit from family or friends, while others venture out to a fitness class, lunch or a movie, just as they did before moving to the village.

The really lucky ones are busy packing for a holiday, while others are getting their hands dirty in the garden, the shed, or the studio. The only thing that’s really changed is their address, and perhaps the amount of yard work and home maintenance they now don’t need to do. And they’ve gained something as well – a community. Retirement villages can be vibrant and active places, but they can also be restful and relaxing places. It’s entirely up to you.

The one thing that every village has in common is that they are focused on supporting residents to live their best life, however they choose. Retirement villages are lifestyle-focused communities, but many also offer support services and care if residents need or want it.

You simply choose what you need when you need it. It is important to note that while there are many housing options available to you in retirement, retirement villages are those communities regulated under retirement village legislation in each state and territory.

The Retirement Living Code of Conduct is a voluntary industry initiative for retirement living operators to provide a trustworthy and high-quality service for over 55’s considering moving into, currently living in, or leaving retirement communities around Australia. It helps potential, current and departing retirement living residents better understand the code and what to look for when making retirement community decisions.

For further information on retirement living please visit our website www.awisemove.cowm.au

Whatever your vision, retirement is a time for new beginnings.

The Law in Good Hands

Founded by Roy Turner in 1952, Turner Freeman began operating from a sole practice with just one office in Sydney.

Celebrating 70 years in business next year, the successful law firm now has 21 office locations across four states, consisting of 22 partners and 24 lawyers nationwide.

“We focus on building a strong and trusting relationship with our clients and listen to their needs. Staff loyalty extends beyond the partnership, with the firm having an envied record of long-serving personnel,” says associate lawyer Brooke McMahon.

Opening the doors to their Maroochydore branch in 2008, the Sunshine Coast contingent began with partner Wayne McStay, who relocated from Brisbane with his wife, a Sunshine Coast local and their growing family. They specialize in Compensation law, Superannuation, TPD & Insurance and Wills & Estates Law. The team has now grown to three experienced lawyers with the addition of graduate lawyer Brooke McMahon in 2009 and Kim Jackson in 2015.

“Our philosophy of long-term commitment also encompasses our clients, many of whom have been with us for decades and appreciate the personalised service and attention to individual needs,” says Brooke. “We have all the resources of a national firm, with a local focus and approach to our clients. Our ultimate aim at Turner Freeman Lawyers is to use our legal expertise to give quality of life back to those who have experienced hardship.”

Early retirement from injury or illness?

Retrospective superannuation insurance claims for retirees

• Have you retired from employment due to injury or illness?

• Have you operated in an unpaid domestic duties role in your household and been diagnosed with an injury or illness that would have prevented you from returning to work, even if you did not intend to?

Ifso, you may be eligible to pursue a superannuation insurance claim that you didn’t realise existed.

It is important to know that this claim may still be possible even if your superannuation account is now closed and/or your insurance has lapsed.

Total and Permanent Disablement (TPD) insurance is a common type of insurance cover that many of us hold within our superannuation, even those of us who have been out of work for some time.

TPD cover is designed to compensate the member if they are no longer able to work as a result of injury and/or illness. This will sometimes also include people operating in an unpaid domestic duties role, who are diagnosed with a medical condition that would have otherwise prevented them from returning to the workforce, even if that was not their intention.

These injuries and/or illnesses do not need to necessarily relate to employment, so that a diagnosis of an unrelated condition such as (but not limited to):

• Chronic lung disease

• Parkinson’s disease

• Multiple sclerosis

• Cancer

• Stroke

• Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease

• Primary pulmonary hypertension

• Major head trauma

• Motor Neurone Disease

• Muscular dystrophy

or any injury outside of work could potentially entitle a member to claim against their insurance - even if they were not working at the time of their diagnosis.

If you have suffered an injury or illness that has put you out of employment, or has prevented you from returning to employment, irrespective of how many years ago, we recommend making an enquiry as to your superannuation insurance options.

The Brady Bunch Factor

“These days it is so common for individuals to have successive significant relationships, such as second or third marriages or de facto relationships, during their lifetime. This often results in couples each having children from previous relationships and assets held in any combination of joint and/or sole ownership.

In these situations, it is vital to obtain advice on your estate planning, to avoid the sometimes surprising consequences of a blended family. A common example to illustrate is as follows.

Rose and Jack marry in their early 40s, both having previously been married and had children with their original partners in their early 20s. Rose has two children, Rebecca and Joanna. Jack has three children, Matthew, Craig and Mitchell. The children are now adults. Jack’s’ two youngest sons, Craig and Mitchell, do not accept Rose and have been distant with Jack since the marriage.

Rose and Jack own a house together in Peregian Beach and have a joint bank account attached to a small mortgage. They also have individual bank accounts in their own names, as well a car each, some investments in their own names and superannuation accounts. Their intention is for the Peregian Beach house to go to each other with their superannuation entitlements to pay off the mortgage and everything else to pass to their respective children separately.

Tragically, Jack passes away on his 50th birthday in a car accident. He has a homemade will leaving the Peregian Beach house to Rose, and the rest of his assets to his three children Matthew, Craig and Mitchell. Jack doesn’t have any nomination on his superannuation account.

Rose is also injured in the accident and suffers severe head injuries which, despite a good recovery, have meant she has problems with her memory. Rose’s eldest daughter, Rebecca, is acting as Rose’s Enduring Power of Attorney.

Jack’s home-made will names his eldest son Matthew as his executor. Craig and Mitchell do not like that Rose has been left the Peregian Beach House. They decide to bring Family Provision claims (FP Claims) against Jack’s estate seeking further provision from the estate.

As Jack and Rose owned the Peregian Beach House as tenants in common, Jack’s share of the property will form part of Jack’s estate and be in jeopardy if Craig and Mitchell’s claims are successful. As Jack did not have a binding death beneficiary nomination (BDBN) in favour of Rose, his sons are able to apply to the superannuation fund to also seek a share of those funds directly. Further, Matthew is able to apply for a share of the superannuation funds on behalf of the estate, which if successful, would mean these funds would go into the residue part of the estate going to the three sons rather than Rose.

Angered by the actions of Craig and Mitchell, Rebecca and Joanna also make claims on Jack’s estate for further provision (i.e. “FPA claim”). They are entitled to do so as step-children of Jack.

Rose is now at risk of losing her home and becoming financially vulnerable without Jack’s superannuation funds to repay the mortgage still in her name, and the medical bills piling up. The five children are at war with each other and diminishing the value of Jack’s estate which is funding the costs of the ongoing heated legal battles.

The above situation need not have arisen if Rose and Jack had sought appropriate legal advice for their estate planning early. Had they taken this step, they would likely have been made aware of the potential risks and been given options as to how best to structure their assets to minimise those risks, such as:

• purchasing or changing the ownership of the Peregian Beach property to joint tenants rather than tenants in common;

• holding funds in joint accounts, which has the effect of taking them out of a person’s estate in the first instance;

• preparation of BDBNs for their superannuation;

• use of testamentary discretionary trusts to control ownership of assets; and

• preparation of material addressed to the respective children setting out the reasons for the gifts made in their will.

Not all estate disputes are avoidable, but there is a lot that can be done when you have the right advice from an experienced wills and estates lawyer.

Future proof your retirement

Whether it’s creating wealth for your future, planning for your retirement, investing in shares, expert advice when it comes to your superannuation, risk assessment and estate planning, Pool and Partners Investment Services provide a wide range of services that can enhance and secure your financial position both now and in the future.

Based in Maroochydore, but servicing clients Australia-wide, their focus is delivering thoroughly researched strategies tailor-made to your individual needs.

At the helm of Poole and Partners Investment Services, founder and director Kirk Jarrott has been heading up the investment division for almost two decades and is dedicated to building long lasting relationships with his clients and developing a strategic financial plan that is secure and attainable.

“It’s more than a business; it’s a family affair.

“Quite often we are looking after several generations of a family, from our older clients, to their children and grandchildren,” says Kirk.

“I am passionate about ensuring our clients are engaged and empowered when it comes to their finances.”

Beginning his career as an accountant in 1989, Kirk moved to investment services in 2000, as a stockbroker for three years before joining the business. During this time he also lectured at Maroochydore Tafe on the stock market. His vast practical and technical knowledge allows him to provide his clients with direct equity investments, investments through Self-Managed Funds and estate and retirement planning.

“Life experiences can have a dramatic financial impact on people’s lives. That’s why it’s so important to make sure all the boxes are ticked when it comes to being adaptable and able to move when a client’s life changes,” says Kirk. “It’s about building wealth in a tax-effective structure and helping clients have more of a hands-on approach when it comes to their superannuation fund. That might be through investing in direct shares or buying their business premises through their superannuation.”

Kirk is joined by highly skilled and motivated advisor Hayden White, who has been part of the Poole and Partners Investment Services for over 10 years. With extensive knowledge and expertise in providing clients with direct equity investment advice, superannuation, personal investment and all other areas of financial planning, Hayden is a specialist in all forms of life insurance products.

Portfolio Management

Poole and Partners offer tailored financial advice, investment and financial planning solutions. In today’s rapidly changing economic and political environment, the successful management of a portfolio of shares and interest-based investments requires supervision, accurate and up to date information, with an ability to incorporate the latest in technology to deliver a transparent and liquid investment portfolio.

“I am passionate about ensuring our clients are engaged and empowered when it comes to their finances.”

As a fee-based service, it provides clients with lower overall management costs and complete impartiality in investment selection. Poole and Partners has skilled and experienced advisers who are well qualified to provide the complete range of financial and investment services so necessary today.

Services include:

• Portfolio management

• Tailored financial advice

• Investment and financial planning

• Online access – investment portfolio management service

Insurance Services

Without doubt, you are the most vital asset in the creation of a lifestyle and earning an income. That is why personal insurance is so important. When something goes wrong, say if you have an accident, fall ill or someone passes away, it can be a time of great stress. The last thing you want to be dealing with is financial issues. Additional pressure from mounting bills or money worries simply exacerbates your stress, when you should be focused on healing and recovery.

If you are either an employee, self-employed, small business owner, have family members or dependents who rely on the income you earn, have debt such as a mortgage, you need to consider personal insurance to protect your loved ones if you fall ill or pass away.

Type of insurance offered:

• Life insurance

• Total and permanent disablement insurance

• Income protection insurance

• Trauma protection/Critical illness insurance

• Child/Life trauma protection insurance

• Business expenses insurance

• Buy/Sell insurance

Planning for Aged Care

Are you struggling to make informed decisions about upcoming Aged Care, either for you and your partner or maybe for loved ones? When it comes to accessing aged care, a clear roadmap means peace of mind. Acknowledging a need for aged care is often an emotional time. The stress can lead to family conflicts, fuelled by the three G’s of aged care – grief, guilt and greed. Making incorrect decisions under pressure is time consuming and can be costly for you. By utilising Poole and Partners Aged Care Advice Service, you can relieve the pressure and have confidence, knowing you’re choosing the correct pathway.

Services include:

• Money Management

• Identifying funding options

• Aged Care Services package

“It’s about building wealth in a tax-effective structure and helping clients having more of a hands-on approach when it comes to their superannuation fund.”

Two generations of the Poole and Partners Investment Services family

Photo Empire Art Photography

Be socially connected - it’s vital

How socially connected are you?

Not the rubbing shoulders with the hoipoloi variety of being connected, but meeting new people and mingling with old friends.

Social activities and connections with friends aren’t just pleasant interludes, they are vital in our lives particularly as we grow older. Research shows that those with more social ties actually live longer -irrespective of their socioeconomic standing, or if they smoke, drink, are obese or even don’t exercise.

It seems social relationships can help calm our stressresponse systems; positive relationships helping us “learn better, stay healthier and live longer.”

There is no reason for anyone to feel lonely here on the Sunshine Coast, as there are countless opportunities to make new and meaningful connections by joining perhaps a sporting, creative or artistic group or a social or service club to meet like-minded people.

In this Social Directory, we’ve done the hard work for you and researched some of the best. So what are you waiting for?

Words Tricia Welsh

LIVELY 50 PLUS

An online network of social groups for people looking to make new friends and discover new hobbies and interests from ballroom dancing and yoga to qigong and art. www.lively50plus.com.au

Facebook @50PlusLively

FRIENDSHIP FORCE, SUNSHINE COAST

An international non-profit cultural organisation focused on promoting understanding, cultural education and citizen diplomacy through homestay journeys and personal friendships.

www.friendshipforcesunshinecoast.org.au

Facebook @www.friendshipforcesunshinecoastaustralia Email friendshipforceSC@gmail.com

FIRST TABLE

An online booking platform which connects diners to local cuisine, offering 50% off for two to four people if you book the first ‘early bird’ table of the night. www.firsttable.com.au

Facebook: @FirstTableAU

COOLUM HEARTS

A Coolum Beach community group for everyone including those with mental, intellectual or physical challenges in their lives where they can come together to create and celebrate the arts. Address: Cnr Elizabeth & Sunrise Avenue

Phone Jackie 0478 846 330 www.coolumhearts.com.au

Facebook @CoolumHeARTS

Email coolumhearts@gmail.com

SUNSHINE COAST RETIREE WOMEN’S GROUP

A closed Facebook group for recently retired women looking to make new connections, promote activities and share in community events together. www.facebook.com/groups/sunshinecoastretireewomen

VIEW CLUB

An opportunity for women to come together and form meaningful relationships through supporting the work of the nationally renowned children’s charity, The Smith Family.

Phone 1800 805 366 www.view.org.au

Maroochydore

Phone Lorri 0406 093 325

Buderim Phone Gail 07 5476 7163

Caloundra Phone Sue 0403 504 408

MEET UP

Create your own group or join another group. Great varieties to choose from: Coasties Young at Heart 50+, Over 50s Outdoor Adventures, Over 50s Health and Happiness Seekers, Girls Talk on Table for Six, Eight is Enough fun restaurant experiences. There is a group for everyone on the Sunshine Coast. www.meetup.com/en-AU/topics/over-50/au/sunshine_ coast

MEN’S SHED

A non-profit organisation that encourages good mental health and wellbeing amongst men by providing them with a meeting place to work on creative projects with other men.

Facebook @Australianmensshedassociation

Maroochydore

Phone 07 5443 1055 www.maroochymensshed.com.au

Caloundra

Phone 0411 238 901 www.caloundramenshed.com.au

Coolum

Phone 0401 985 800 www.coolummensshed.org

Buderim

Phone 07 5445 2202 www.buderimmensshed.org

WOMEN’S SHED

This not-for-profit organisation is for women to connect through shared interests such as DIY, arts, crafts, health and wellness and is run by volunteers.

Coolum www.thewomensshed.org

Noosa www.noosawomensshed.com.au

PROBUS CLUBS

An association for retired or semi-retired people looking for opportunities to stay active, expand their interests and socialise. There are 23 Probus Clubs in the Sunshine Coast Region.

Phone Regional Liaison Officer Geoff Leddy 0400 840 100 www.paqnetwork.com.au

Facebook @ProbusSouthPacific

Buderim East

Phone Don Hoskins 0409 980 129

Coolum Beach

Phone Keith Symonds 0416 275 590

Kawana Waters

Phone Mike Matthews 0416 325 763

Tewantin Noosa

Phone Chris Hartley 07 5442 7397

Pelican Waters

Phone Geoff Leddy 0400 840 100

ROTARY CLUBS

An organisation compiled of citizens who come together to create positive, lasting change in their local communities. Rotary has 19 clubs in different locations across the Sunshine Coast region.

Phone Wendy Gilson 0437 747 462

RED HATTERS

You’ll recognise this fun-loving group of women by their purple dresses and red hats. This international club for women over 50, is the largest friendship club of its kind in the world. There are several chapters on the coast.

Phone Julie Walker on 0412 789 957 to find one nearest to you.

CHIRPY PLUS

This interactive social platform designed for over 55s has three local groups: Coolum Beach + Noosa Heads, Mooloolaba + Maroochydore, and Bribie Island. Each group has several CatchUps a month from morning teas, lunches and dinners to more activity-based events, such as the movies, or 10-pin bowling.

To join, visit www.chirpyplus.com.au to learn of planned events.

U3A

No longer working full-time but still eager to learn new skills or brush-up old ones? Then, U3A is designed for you. The University of the Third Age is aimed at people in the ‘third age’ of their life who still want to keep their brains active through intellectually stimulating activities. Membership to this all-volunteer organisation is nominal with perhaps an occasional venue fee.

Sunshine Coast

There are more than 100 courses available from music to meditation, pickleball to painting.

Phone 07 5430 1123 or u3aoffice@u3asunshine.org.au

Noosa

Some 40 different courses are available from Shakespeare, photography, military history to bridge.

Phone 07 5440 5500 or info@u3anoosa.com.au

AQUA AEROBICS

Aqua Aerobics uses the resistance of the water to help burn calories, build endurance, enhance balance, coordination and core stability, reduce stress on joints, improve cardiovascular strength and circulation, increase flexibility and muscle strength – all while having fun. Join one of the many weekly classes at these Swimfit centres. Floating devices, dumb-bells and noodles provided. Concession and multiple use passes available.

Beerwah Aquatic Centre

Phone 07 5494 0022

Buderim Aquatic Centre

Phone 07 5445 6685

Coolum Aquatic Centre

Phone 07 5473 9042

Cotton Tree Aquatic Centre

Phone 07 5443 5601

Eumundi Aquatic Centre

Phone 07 5442 7186

Palmwoods Aquatic Centre

Phone 07 5445 0110

Goodlife Community Gym

Several aqua aerobics classes are offered daily at the Goodlife Community Centre, 100 Buderim Pines Drive, Buderim, using indoor and outdoor pools. Casual visits plus 10-session passes are available.

Phone 07 5444 2126

GOLF CLUBS

Headland Golf Club

The scenic Headland Golf Club at Buderim offers a Swing program for women newbies or those returning to the game. The program is aimed to support and encourage beginners into becoming confident players, learning the skill, rules, etiquette and scoring systems along the way. It begins with five clinics and a day on the course, before participants are invited to play nine holes on Tuesday mornings. Mentors are available to help with the learning experience.

Phone Pro Shop 07 5444 5800

Maroochy River Golf Club

For 11 years, Golf Professional Di Pavich has been running the very successful Girls into Golf (GIG) for women new to golf or those returning to the game. The program not only teaches women the necessary skills but gives them confidence to play socially or advance to joining a club, even obtaining a handicap and playing competitively. A one-off $45 membership fee includes a private lesson with on-going lessons on the range or the course for $30 which includes all green fees, balls, tuition and equipment. Bookings essential.

www.dipavichgolf.com.au

Phone Di Pavich 0438 178 848

ART GROUPS

Buderim Craft Cottage

Long-established not-for-profit community group where members work together and share skills producing high quality arts and crafts such as calligraphy, patchwork, photography, silversmith, needlework, pottery and painting.

Address: 5 Main Street, Buderim Phone 07 5450 1714

Caloundra Arts Centre Association

Established 40 years ago, this enthusiastic group of some 500 members offers 22 different art forms from embroidery and lacemaking, beads and bling, spinning and weaving to quilting and pottery. Members hold an annual Christmas Arts & Crafts Fair.

Address: 5 North Street, Caloundra

Phone Trish 0409 948 604

Cooroy Butter Factory Arts Centre

Housed in a converted 1930s butter factory, this centre nurtures new and established artists in any media with regular workshops and exhibitions. Beginner and intermediate potters can learn and access facilities of the adjacent Pottery Studio.

Address: 11A Maple Street, Cooroy Phone 07 5442 6665

Frida’s Sip‘n’Paint, Noosa Heads

Bring your own vino, gin and tonic or prosecco and channel your inner Picasso at a fun artistic night under the guidance of professionally trained artists. Paint your own masterpiece in a 2.5-hour session for $66.

Phone 0402 100 991

Ilkley Pottery

Respected ceramics artist Jackie Gasson teaches budding potters and artists and guides more experienced ones in her rustic sculpture and pottery studio in Eudlo. Daily except Sundays.

Phone Jackie Gasson 0438 450 349

Maleny Arts & Crafts Group

Interested in learning wood crafting, quilting, embroidery, life drawing, creative glass, crocheting and more. Share skills and learn crafts with other local creative people. www.malenyartsandcraftsinc.com

Phone 0409 401 221

Noosa Arts and Crafts Association

Explore your creative talents with this lively not-for-profit group that meets regularly in historic Wallace House in Noosaville. Try your hand at smocking, weaving, mosaics, spinning, ceramics, porcelain, quilting, book and paper making and more.

www.noosaartsandcrafts.org.au

Phone 07 5474 1211

Oxide Clay Art

Learn pottery and fine ceramics from award-winning master potter, Joe Ottaway in his lovely Ninderry studio. Students are able to finish their work with professional glazes developed and refined by Joe over his 30 years as a TAFE ceramics teacher and ceramics artist in Brisbane. www.oxideclayart.com.au

Phone 0448 050 711

Palmwoods CWA

Participate in a variety of community activities through this branch of the CWA such as sewing, crocheting, cooking, scone-making, country kitchen and even Japanese papermaking – shibori.

Facebook @PalmwoodsCWA

Email palmwoodsCWA@gmail.com

Suncoast Clayworkers

Join this group of dedicated potters and ceramics artists who willingly share ideas, styles, techniques and knowledge at Ilkley Pottery in Eudlo.

Phone 0438 450 349

Sunshine Coast Art Group

This friendly community group has been fostering budding artists and seasoned talents for 55 years in pottery, fashion sewing, painting, life drawing and music through weekly self-help group sessions, workshops and classes. Address: 1 William Parker Place, Buderim. Visit www.facebook.com/scagbuderim for weekly schedules, class times and special events.

Syndicate Creative

Discover a new hobby or learn a new skill – pottery, floristry, drawing or perhaps weaving -with friends or at a private session at this workshop and gallery space in Sugar Road, Maroochydore.

Phone 0403 680 774

The Pottery Studio

Join fun pottery classes such as Pottery and Chill, Sunday Wine Down and Clay and Wine in this warehouse-style space in Nambour. Email hello@thepotterystudio.com.au

SUNSHINE COAST COUNCIL LIBRARIES

Join a local library to not only immerse yourself in books, magazines and movies, but to participate in a vast range of activities and events scheduled each month – learn how to prepare fermented foods, cook Asian dishes, listen to interviews with authors, discover how to make the most of your electronic devices and more. There are libraries at Beerwah, Caloundra, Coolum, Kawana, Kenilworth, Maleny, Maroochydore and Nambour. Membership is free. libraries@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

Phone 07 5475 8989

TENNIS CLUBS

Tennis is one of the greatest social games ever invented. Just turn up with your racquet (or hire one) at these local tennis clubs and meet energetic locals in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Ballinger Park Tennis Club, Buderim

Four club social sessions a week. Group coaching available.

Phone 07 5445 5561

Coolum Tennis Club

Four social tennis sessions a week, 20 game-fit program sessions a week, plus group coaching.

Phone 0421 391 505

Eumundi Tennis Club

Social tennis Sunday afternoons from 3pm

Phone 0403 294 256

Kawana Tennis Club

Three social tennis sessions a week.

Phone 07 5478 2989

Maroochydore Tennis Club

Three mixed social sessions a week, plus two that include one-hour group coaching.

Phone 07 5443 6174

Maleny Tennis Club

Five various social sessions each week plus a fun, casual ‘try it’ tennis session Sat 2-4pm. Group coaching available. Phone 0410 405 029

Mooloolaba Tennis Club

Five mixed, men’s and ladies’ social tennis sessions. Daily drop-in coaching clinics from 9am. Phone 5444 0033

Noosa Tennis Club

Four mixed and men’s social tennis sessions weekly.

Phone 07 5474 5494

Palmwoods Tennis Club

Five mixed and ladies’ social tennis session each week, plus a weekly social group with coaching.

Phone Robyn 0401 146 451

PICKLEBALL

Learn to play one of the fast-growing sports in the world - particularly among the over 50s, and especially in south-east Queensland. Low-impact, pickleball is a cross between table tennis, badminton and tennis but played on a smaller court. Just wear sports shoes; paddles and balls are provided. Bookings are essential.

Sunshine Coast Pickleball Club

Phone 0497 514 346 for club sessions. Facebook @sunshinecoastpickleballclub

Caloundra Indoor Sports Stadium

Beginners’ lessons through U3A: Thu 9-11am

Tutors: Peter and Jill Campbell. Phone 0400 796 854 petejill@gmail.com

Clippers Stadium, Buderim

Beginners lessons and social play: Mon, Wed, Fri 9-11am hello@sunshinecoastpickleball.org.au

Coolum Tennis Club

Pickleball for beginners and social play: Mon 6-8pm, Wed 8-10am

Phone 0421 391 505

Maleny District Sport & Rec Club

Beginners and social play: Mon 6.30-8.30pm in the Maleny State High School Activity Centre.

Facebook @MalenySportAndRecClub

Noosa Leisure Centre

Phone 07 5329 6559 nlconlinebookings.as.me/schedule.php

DANCE

No experience needed. Just bring your enthusiasm and energy to a weekly class in Maroochydore for Over 60s to learn perhaps the Salsa and Bachata, or other Latin dances from professional dance instructors. Sessions are in eight-week blocks for men and women.

Tropicalia Latin Dance Studio

Phone 0491 623 649 www.tropicaliastudio.com.au

Bright Side Dance Studio

Join a beginners’ Jive dance class on Sunday afternoons from 4.30-6pm in the CWA Hall, Maroochydore, and dance to fabulous music from the 50s and 60s.

Phone 0421 650 021

“It seems social relationships can help calm our stress-response systems; positive relationships help us learn better, stay healthier and live longer.”

COMMUNITY CHOIRS

The Sunshine Coast hosts a huge number of choirs offering musical outlets for people of all ages, talents and styles. Most are community-based with no auditions necessary – some under the guidance of professional choirmaster Kim Kirkman, former musical director and founder of the celebrated Ten Tenors.

A-choired Taste Singers

No audition is necessary to join this fun, casual community choir led by Conservatorium-trained singing teacher Trish Couper. Learn contemporary, gospel and harmony singing.

Rehearsals Tue 5.30-7.30pm at St Andrew’s Anglican College, Peregian Springs

Phone Trish Couper 0401 064 472

Buderim Male Choir

This all-male choir is the longest continually serving community choir on the Sunshine Coast and the only one singing in Welsh-style four-part harmony now under the baton of well-credentialed former opera singer Mitch Meyer who trained at the Melbourne University Conservatorium. Rehearsals 6:45-9:15pm Mondays at St Mark’s Anglican Church, Buderim.

Phone Greg 07 5325 1709

Caloundra Chorale and Theatre Company

This mixed community choir is connected with a local theatrical group and puts on several musicals a year.

Rehearsals Tue 7-9pm at the CCTC, 30 Naroon Cres, Wurtulla.

Phone Kim Kirkman 0431 560 929

Caloundra Community Choir

A mixed choir singing two and three-part harmony and directed by Kim Kirkman. Rehearsals Fri 9-10:30 at the Salvation Army Church, 119 Sugarbag Rd, Little Mountain.

Phone Kim Kirkman 0431 560 929

Hot Ginger Chorus

This all-female a cappella group specialises in barbershop harmony singing and is considered one of the best on the Sunshine Coast. Affiliated with International Sweet Adelines Barbershop Chorus based in the US, members must audition first. Like to have a go? Come along to a Wednesday evening rehearsal at Lifepointe Baptist Church, Wises Road, Buderim from 7-9pm.

Phone Rosie Ryan 0402 508 172 membership@hotgingerchorus.org.au

Cotton Tree Community Choir

Singing teacher Sue Bond who is also founder and artistic director of this choir, leads the mixed group with a fun repertoire of popular tunes including hit songs from the 30’s to current day tunes. Rehearsals Wed from 10: 30am in the CWA Hall, Maroochydore.

Phone Sue 0402 717 735

Inspiration Choir

A mixed relaxed two and three-part harmony community choir directed by Kim Kirkman. Rehearsals Thu 9-10.30am at the Anglican Church, 2 Walkers Drive, Maleny.

Phone Kim Kirkman 0431 560 929

Inspiration Project Choir

A more advanced choir, this mixed four-part harmony choir presents baroque pieces with orchestra, including The Messiah. Rehearsals Thu 11-12.30 at the Anglican Church, 2 Walkers Drive, Maleny.

Phone Kim Kirkman 0431 560 929

Maleny Singers

Under the guidance of dynamic musical director Margaret Taylor, this performance group of singers/actors presents four shows a year accompanied by a 20-piece orchestra. Auditions necessary, rehearsals Wed 6.30pm.

Phone Margaret Taylor 07 5435 2742

The Mapleton Choir

This non-audition, four-part harmony community choir produces two major concert series each year with Ailsa Morehen as musical director. Rehearsals Mon 7pm in Kureelpa Hall.

Phone Ailsa Morehen 07 5478 6079

Noosa Chorale

This 100-strong community choir has become a major feature of Noosa’s cultural landscape. Now under the baton of music director Adrian King, it produces an exciting program with three concerts a year in The J Theatre. Rehearsals Tue 7-9.15pm at The J. Visit www.noosachorale.org.au

Oriana Choir

This multi award-winning community choir is arguably the best on the coast – putting on several concerts each year and taking occasional international tours. Rehearsals Thu 7:15-9:30pm at Connections on King, Buderim. Phone 0431 542 343, visit www.oriana.org.au

For The Joy of Learning: U3A

Our relaxed coastal lifestyle certainly encourages equality among retirees. With our laid back relaxed dress code, few care about anyone’s previous career background or academic achievements. Nowhere is this more relevant than in the classrooms of U3A courses being offered on the Sunshine Coast.

Words Tricia Welsh

Wayne Curran, Tutor and Course co-ordinator at U3A Sunshine Coast, liaises with 110 tutors covering some 136 courses each year, Wayne points out: “You don’t have to be a teacher, but rather have a passion for your subject, and try to make it fun. Our mature age students are very encouraging – and forgiving.”

One tutor known for his enjoyable classes is Ian Cran whose classes fill up quickly. He shares his considerable knowledge and passion about a wide variety of subjects: classical music, geography of Scotland, birds of the Sunshine Coast and more. “He’s quite a character,” says one of his loyal students. “He loves to tell yarns and he’s led an incredibly varied life. He always makes the topic both interesting and fun.”

The members of the University of the Third Age are those in the ‘third age’ of their life - ‘the life period of active retirement, which follows the first age of childhood and formal education and the second age of working life.’ They still want to either contribute to the community or participate in what this all-volunteer not-for-profit organisation has to offer.

Two Sunshine Coast stalwarts are long-term tutors Myra Timmerman who at 84 still teaches yoga, and founding member Mara Miller, 97, who for many years taught creative writing and history.

Initiated by a group of retired academics at the University of Toulouse in southern France in 1974, the U3A concept soon spread to the United Kingdom where it evolved with greater community participation. Ten years later, Australians embraced the UK model with the first branch opening in Melbourne. Today, there are some 250 branches in Australia with a total of 104,000 members.

In Queensland, the first U3A was formed on the Sunshine Coast in 1986. There are now some 2,200 members attending courses that are held in various venues along the coast, from Coolum in the north, to Mudjimba, USC at the Sippy Downs campus, south to Caloundra, and west to Maleny and Nambour.

Courses, activities and lectures have no academic prerequisites and the choices on offer are limited only by the wealth of knowledge and life experiences of those members who offer to be tutors.

And there are no formal results, other than a real sense of achievement in completing a course, or learning a new skill, whether academic or arts and crafts, exercise or social activity. Courses in health, fitness and sport include bowling, gym fitness, Tai Chi, Yoga, table tennis, golf, lawn bowls, cycling and more.

Some of the newest courses offered include organic beekeeping, Chinese for beginners, I Love Maths and ballroom dancing.

One of the most popular sports in recent years has been pickleball which has been likened to a cross between tennis, table tennis and badminton. Starting out with just one class, interest has grown so fast they now offer five.

President of U3A Sunshine Coast, Glyni Cumming – a former Head of English at a private girls’ school for 16 years, joined U3A seven years ago to play table tennis and gave classes in Ancient History before joining the Management Committee. She’s been president for two years now and says: “For many of our members, U3A plays a very significant part in their lives. Attending various classes each week has brought them such fun and mental stimulation, and they really love being a member.”

An internationally recognised scholar in gerontology, Professor Helen Bartlett was keynote speaker at the U3A Sunshine Coast’s AGM this year. Professor Bartlett, the new Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC), said research had shown that continued engagement in learning activities, especially on a weekly basis, really does increase the ongoing motivation that impacts on mental and physical health. “It provides … friendships and connections, reducing the risk of social isolation in later life.”

“Where the benefits have really been shown to be effective is with the informal learning such as people experience in U3A classes, a learning activity that doesn’t result in formal qualifications but appeals in increasing knowledge in an area of interest or helping to create hobbies. These informal learning activities are definitely linked with improved social and psychological wellbeing.”

Your writer is learning French from English-born Patricia Barry, who has spoken French since her childhood education at a convent school run by French nuns. She spent much of her youth in France, received several scholarships to study French at university in France and more recently taught French at a prestigious Brisbane boys’ school. When she retired, she joined U3A to join a French class but was soon asked to take a class of her own. She started with 10 students and a beginners’ class; today she has four eager classes of 25 and two years ago was nominated for the Sunshine Coast’s Australia Day Senior Citizen of the Year award.

Patricia affirms “I think U3A is a brilliant organisation as there is a huge range of activities that people can enjoy, especially if you come up to the coast and you may be lonely, a ‘newbie’. You can join U3A and do something interesting, find people who are like-minded and make friends for life. To me, that is the strength of U3A.”

U3A Sunshine Coast’s office is within the USC campus. Annual membership is $40 but venue fees are charged to cover the cost of hall hire for individual courses. Phone 5430 1123, email u3aoffice@u3asunshine.org.au or visit u3asunshine.org.au

CONNECT

WEBSITE www.u3asunshine.org.au

PHONE 07 5430 1123

“You can join U3A and do something interesting, find people who are like-minded and make friends for life. To me, that is the strength of U3A.”

Laughter is the best medicine

Have you ever found yourself laughing so hard that it hurts or perhaps sends you into tears?

This is likely to happen if you attend a session with internationally renowned laughter therapist and Laughter Ambassador, Susan Brown and according to her, laughing really is the best medicine.

Suffering from severe depression, due to traumatic events in her life, one of which left her in a coma for some months, she decided to change the course of her life and unbeknown at the time, it ultimately resulted in laughter around the world.

After attending laughter training in Brisbane, she discovered a hidden gift, something so powerful that it became infectious to those around her… she could really make people laugh and without jokes. Susan wanted to share her gift with the world.

From high-profile directors, CEO’s and lawyers in Hollywood, police, and emergency services personnel to kindergarten kids in Coolum, Susan teaches people how to laugh for no apparent reason and without a trace of inhibition or self-consciousness.

Laughter improves health as it:

• Releases endorphins and dopamine – both natural highs

• Produces T-cells that eat tumours

• Combats stress, fatigue, and depression,

• Produces 50 percent more antibodies than the average response to flu vaccines

• Happy people are less likely to develop heart disease

• Increases lung capacity boosting oxygen intake and energy

• One minute of laughter equals the exercise of 10 minutes rowing

• Reduces blood pressure

• Strengthens muscles and increases aerobic exercise

• Increases productivity in the workplace

Susan says: “There’s so much seriousness in people’s lives these days, so I just aim to reintroduce happiness and laughter into their lives.

“People lose their fears and feel completely liberated from laughing. When you laugh you release chemicals that ease pain and create euphoric feelings. It’s amazing how quickly laughter can change a person’s whole day.”

By 2004, Susan had recorded a CD about laughter techniques and in July set off on a world tour to take her laughter to countries including America, Saudi Arabia, Japan, and the UK.

“My best-ever laughter experience was in LAX airport. My flight had been delayed for several hours, the airconditioning wasn’t working, and everyone was moping around becoming agitated. I was talking to an American lady about what I did and before I knew it, I was up doing a kookaburra cry at the top of my voice. Within 10 minutes the whole airport was laughing with me and the tension was diffused.”

“Everywhere I went, laughter demonstrated it can cut across cultural boundaries, race and age. People migrated to the sound of laughter and joined in wherever I went. Trains, ships, planes, yes, and even Disneyland are introducing laughter into their workplaces.

Since returning home to Australia, Susan has been teaching laughter to corporate groups, school and TAFE students, to hospital staff, the visually impaired and the aged. She reveales how her talents have induced laughter from the unlikeliest of people and turned lives around.

“I’ve had amazing success with the older people. On one occasion, a person who hadn’t spoken or made a sound for years began laughing. It was incredible.”

Susan has been to Innisfail where they had just had a disaster happen. People came to gather, and she soon had them laughing.

“My dog, Daisy attends the sessions too, which is great for the visually impaired, and I dress people up in colourful tutus to help them lose their inhibitions –you’re guaranteed to laugh.”

When you sit and listen to Susan you will be in awe of her amazing stories and how she has changed so many peoples live’s, in some cases, permanently. Today, if there is a piano around, Susan, self-taught, will bash out a tune, which she has done in a number of aged care facilities around the Sunshine Coast.

Susan holds laughter clinics on the coast for a donation. For details you can phone her on 0438 714 147

DOWN UNDER COACH TOURS

Specialising in Senior’s Coach Holiday Packages Have a great time Down Under...!

7 DAY COBB & CO TOURIST ROUTE, SCENIC RIM & O’REILLY’S RAINFOREST RETREAT Departs 11/10/21

• 2 Nights Toowoomba

• 3 Nights O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat

• Workshops Railway Museum

• Darling Downs Zoo

• Scenic Rim Robotic Dairy

• Canungra Vineyard

• O’Reilly’s Activities Package

Adult: $2560 Single Supplement: $560

5 DAY 1770 FESTIVAL Departs 19/05/22

• 3 Nights Agnes Waters

• 1770 Captain Cook Festival

• LARC Tour

• Bundaberg Rum Distillery

• Hinkler House

• Hall of Aviation Cockpit Tour

• Flying High Bird Sanctuary

Adult: $2379 Single Supplement: $371

7 DAY BRIGADOON FESTIVAL AT BUNDANOON Departs 30/03/22

• 2 Nights Goulburn

• Gulgong Pioneer Museum

• National Motor Racing Museum

• Bundanoon Highland Gathering

• Berrima Historic Courthouse Tour

• International Cricket Hall of Fame

• Macadamia Castle

Adult: $2678 Single Supplement: $538

12 DAY CORNER COUNTRY, LAKE EYRE & BIRDSVILLE Departs 15/06/22

• 2 Nights Tibooburra & Marree

• Back O’Bourke Exhibition Centre

• Reola Station

• Milparinka, Depot Glen & Poole’s Grave

• Cameron Corner

• Silver City Mint & Art Centre, Broken Hill

• Streamtown Heritage Railway Centre

Adult: $4722 Single Supplement: $817

15

• Kakadu NP

• Katherine Gorge Cruise

• Ord River Cruise & Lake Argyle

• Tunnel Creek & Windjana Gorge

• Willie Pearl Farm, Broome

• Monkey Mia

• Great Australian Bight

Adult: $28693 Single Supplement: $7814

• 5

• Texas Longhorn Safari Tour

• Kronosaurus Korner

• Mataranka Thermal Pools

• Kakadu Sightseeing

• Katherine Gorge Cruise

• Australian Aboriginal Cultural Experience

Adult: $7396 Single Supplement: $1776

6 DAY NUNDLE GO FOR GOLD CHINESE EASTER FESTIVAL Departs 14/04/22

• 3 Nights Tamworth

• Inverell Pioneer Museum

• Nundle Easter Festival

• Tamworth Marsupial Park

• Galaxy of Stars Museum

• Australian Country Music Hall of Fame

• Dorrigo Rainforest Centre

Adult: $2178 Single Supplement: $462

6 DAY FRASER COAST & CARNARVON GORGE Departs 21/07/22

• 2 Nights Hervey Bay

• Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise

• Fraser Island Day Tour

• Cania Gorge

• Blackwater Coal Mining Museum

• Miner’s Heritage Walk-In Mine Tour

• Carnarvon Gorge Guided Walk

Adult: $3266 Single Supplement: $480

8 DAY DARWIN, KAKADU & KATHERINE GORGE Fly/Coach Departs 01/08/22

• 5

• Australian Aviation Heritage Centre

• Darwin Sunset Dinner Cruise

• Kakadu Sightseeing

• 30 minute Kakadu & Arnhem Land Flight

• Yellow Waters Billabong Cruise

• Jumping Crocodile Cruise

Adult: $4880 Single Supplement: $998

66 DAY GRAND AUSSIE ADVENTURE Departs 25/07/22

DAY OUTBACK QLD & THE TOP END Coach/Fly Departs 25/07/22

Nights Darwin

Nights Darwin

It’s travel, Jim, but not as we know it

Travel on the other side of COVID will most certainly be different to the travel we knew and loved before the C-word struck our vocabulary. However, one thing is certain, and that is our appetite for travel has not changed. We are still passionate about exploring new destinations, meeting new people, and experiencing new cultures. How these experiences will look, and where we will find these experiences, post-COVID, we can’t be entirely certain, but as travellers we will accept the new normal and once again embrace the wonders of travel.

Coming out of a period where uncertainty has impacted each one of us daily and has undoubtedly tainted many of our travel plans and dreams; we must now embrace the new opportunities which have been opened to us. Whether touring by private jet, exploring remote islands, foraging for dinner, seeing the aurora australis from the air, or shopping with a celebrity, the travel industry has evolved, and is now offering more experiences and opportunities than we ever could have imagined.

The future of travel will surely bring with it a lot of challenges navigating new and changing travel restrictions and protocols. Who better than your trusted travel advisor at Suncity Travel to guide you on your journey? Our skilled travel advisors can find the perfect destination, and take the worry out of your hands dealing with the logistics, behind the scenes, while keeping your personal safety and comfort a priority.

We can help seasoned travellers on the Sunshine Coast make up for lost time and tidy up their bucket lists. Reach out to one of our knowledgeable Suncity Travel Advisor, and truly get lost in the new marvels of travel.

Come on down to meet our expert team at Suncity Travel in Caloundra. We have travelled every continent extensively, especially our own. We are your personal gateway to the world and we look forward to meeting you!

On the Road Again

The usual focus of Friendship Force is cultural exchange through home-hosting club members from around the world and travelling to visit sister clubs overseas. However, due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, members have had the opportunity instead to explore local regions around and beyond the Sunshine Coast.

The most recent three-week adventure started in Dalby on the Darling Downs and continued on through fabulous-sounding Outback towns such as Mungindi, Cunnamulla, Eulo, Hungerford, Dirranbandi, Thargomindah, Eromanga, Quilpie, St George, Mitchell and Roma – and smaller townships in between.

Tag-along leader Ron Usher found being able to experience the lifestyles of these rural and remote communities to be “a special cultural experience.”

He says: “The group learned the local history of early exploration and settlement, current land use and the farmers’ response to drought. Along the way, we viewed amazing art on silos and water towers, bathed in artesian spas and visited fascinating sites such as the Dinosaur Natural History Museum at Eromanga and the unique Bilby Centre in Charleville.

“Sometimes we stayed in shearers’ quarters on working sheep stations,” he adds. “We arrived at one station just after a young man had come off a farm bike and had broken his leg. One of our members, a nurse, was able to assist until the Royal Flying Doctors’ Service arrived to

The club is already planning overseas travel for 2022, once international borders are hopefully open. In the meantime, members continue to explore local regions with the next tag-along journey scheduled for midOctober travelling north along the Queensland coast to Bundaberg and beyond taking in such towns as Woodgate, Agnes Waters, 1770, Childers and Biggenden.

The club constantly welcomes new members. Anyone interested should visit the website and follow the club’s activities on the Friendship Force Sunshine Coast

A recent road trip visiting small communities in south-west Queensland was the latest adventure of the Sunshine Coast Friendship Force club.

Robyn Stewart and Ron Usher

Cards on the table

Seniors’ Discounts and Concessions

Seniors Card, Seniors Card +Go, Seniors Business Discount Card, Commonwealth Seniors Health Card, Pensioner’s Card, Carers’ Cards, Companion Cards, etc.

Concession cards – they are one of the few practical benefits of ageing. Usually available once you turn 60 or 65, these are offered by the state and federal governments to people no longer working full time to help balance their household budgets.

But ask anyone for a list of the actual benefits for each card, and you’ll more than likely be greeted by a brick wall. It seems having possession of a card merely means you could qualify for certain discounts – so long as the various agencies (electricity, gas, rates, etc) offer them to you. And if you talk to any government agency, there is nothing set in stone and options can change at any moment.

The first thing to do, once you are nearing the magic age, is apply for the respective cards ahead of time so that you can have access to the maximum discounts or concessions they might offer. And then, ask, ask, ask – anyone and everyone: your friends at the tennis or bowling club, your mates at the gym, your neighbours. Word of mouth seems to be the fastest and most reliable way to find out what actually works – because everyone is thrilled to get a bargain and very ready to let you know that they have been able to work their way through the minefield of potential red tape.

Seniors Card

Available through the state government, this is perhaps the handiest card to have giving you access to hundreds of discounts such as supermarket shopping, dining out and car registration. There are also discounts available in hair and beauty salons, accommodation, car hire and more.

Interested in local history? Pick up a Discovery Guide at the library to visit museums and historic places and ask for a VIP Museum Card for 10% off your next entry at participating Sunshine Coast museums, visit www. heritage.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

You can also save hundreds of dollars each year on life and health insurance, heading aids, car registration, electricity, gas, rates and your mortgage.

Postage stamps are half-price once you have obtained a MyPost Concession card through Australia Post. Cardholders are eligible to purchase up to 50 concession stamps each year as well as discounts on Mail Hold and Mail Redirection services.

Having a Seniors Card or a Seniors Business Discount card can also give you access to the Senior Shopper –a free online and phone-shopping service that helps members save on a variety of purchases through a ‘power in numbers’ concept.

Some local outlets that offer a discount include:

Shine Beauty parlours in Caloundra, Sippy Downs and in Sunshine Plaza, Maroochydore – 10% off.

Araxi Hair Salons in Kawana and Sunshine Plaza, Maroochydore – 10% off haircuts.

Novotel Twin Waters – 10% off accommodation outside peak periods

Ingenia Holidays Rivershare at Diddillibah – 10% accommodation outside peak periods.

Avis Car Rental in Maroochydore, Noosa and Caloundra – 10% discount depending on dates and vehicle availability.

White’s IGA supermarkets at Baringa, Bli Bli, Mooloolah, Mt Coolum and Peregian Beach – 5% off on showing your Seniors Card.

IGA Wises Road, Buderim – 5% off your bill.

Some popular restaurants such as the Brightwater Hotel and Buderim and Mountain Creek Taverns offer special priced seniors’ menus rather than a discount. If you spend more than $4 on any order at McDonald’s stores, your card entitles you to a free small coffee, tea, or soft drink.

The celebrated Irwin family-owned Australia Zoo at Beerwah/Glasshouse Mountains offers a healthy discount for seniors ($47, down from $59), while Aussie World theme park at Palmview also offers a discount ($30, down from $38). Most cinemas have special seniors’ discounts and movie mornings.

Cinebuzz membership at Event Cinemas (Birch, Carroll & Coyle at Sunshine Plaza) is free, with the first session of the day dedicated to Senior Members with tickets at $10 each plus discounts on cinema snacks.

To qualify for a Seniors Card, you must be a resident of the state where you are applying, be more than 60-years-old and not work more than 35 hours a week in paid employment.

Seniors Card + Go

This is simply a Seniors Card combined with a Go public transport card on the reverse. Very handy to have the two linked.

Remember, the bottom line with concession cards is to put you pride in your back pocket and every time you pay money for something, ask if you are eligible for a discount. Just work on the premise that nobody knows what you want until you ask for it!

Healing autoimmune disease with functional medicine

Words Dr R Dajana

Autoimmune illnesses are becoming more common than ever in today’s culture. According to the Garvan Institute of Medical Research, autoimmune illness has a $30 billion impact on the Australia economy -twice that of cancer.

There are between 80 and 100 different forms of autoimmune disorders or diseases, according to modern medicine, that they have now reached epidemic proportions.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Hashimoto’s Disease, Grave’s Disease, and Lupus are some of the most frequent. Autoimmune cases appear to be on the rise, especially among those over 50, for reasons researchers don’t fully understand.

Most individuals assume that once they are diagnosed with an autoimmune condition, their only choice is to manage their symptoms while waiting for modern medicine to discover a cure. That is not necessarily the case.

Functional Medicine is a worldwide movement based on a different approach to diagnosing and treating disease — one that focuses on causes rather than symptoms, an understanding of the dynamic way our genes interact with our environment, and goes beyond simply treating diseases based on their labels.

Understanding the body as a system, seeking the causes of illness; understanding the body’s basic functional systems, where they go awry, and how to restore balance; and understanding the interconnections between symptoms and organs rather than categorizing diseases into specialties are all taught in Functional Medicine.

When it comes to autoimmune disorders, a functional medicine approach has the potential to reverse the disease process by allowing your body to repair itself. Traditional medicine focuses on preventing attacks and managing symptoms when it comes to autoimmune illnesses. This can be performed by suppressing the immune system, reducing inflammation, or alleviating other symptoms with pharmaceutical medicines.

While some treatments provide symptom relief, they also make your body more susceptible to infections and raise the risk of certain malignancies. While this can provide patients with some relief from symptoms, restoring genuine health requires determining WHY the immune system shifted from working normally to attacking the body. This did not happen by itself. Something happened to cause the body to become hyper-immune in an unnatural way. Functional medicine focuses on this. To put it another way, instead of giving Aspirin to someone who is in pain from standing on a tack, you remove the tack.

Functional Medicine offers a road map for determining which molecule the cells are imitating. It investigates the source of the inflammation and inquires as to why it exists.

Autoimmune Disorders: The Root Causes

Every autoimmune illness is linked by a common biological process: an overactive immune response that causes your body to attack its own tissues.

The study of functional medicine has found a few typical causes for the body to become hyper-immune.

Autoimmunity is influenced by food sensitivities and a leaky gut

In order to absorb nutrients from our food, a well functioning GI tract, or gut, must be fairly permeable. When the gut is exposed to particular meals, illnesses, toxins, or stress, it can become “leaky,” allowing toxins, germs (including bacteria), and undigested nutrients to enter the bloodstream. It can also hinder critical vitamins and minerals from being absorbed. This can lead to inflammation in the body, giving rise to autoimmune disease.

Autoimmune Diseases and Chronic Viral Infections

Viruses have long been considered to play a role in the development of autoimmune conditions, according to scientists. Some people can simply tolerate low-level viruses better than others.

It can induce the hyper-immune state that leads to autoimmune dysfunction if you are unable to tolerate the viruses or if your immune system is otherwise damaged.

Autoimmune Disease and Toxicity

In today’s environment, toxicity is another widespread issue. Toxic levels in our surroundings and body are increasing, whether we recognize it or not. Toxins are found in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the foods we eat. Furthermore, many of the products in our homes are created from chemicals whose health effects have not been thoroughly investigated and may be harmful to our health.

Toxic exposure can sometimes harm or change your body at a cellular level. These modifications may cause your body to confuse these cells for foreign tissue and attack them. In other circumstances, the effect is less immediate, resulting in persistent inflammation and subsequent hyper-immunity.

Nutrient deficiencies have an impact on autoimmunity

Many vitamins and nutrients, such as vitamins A, D, and K, as well as Omega 3s, Iron, Zinc, Magnesium, and Selenium, have a role in immunological dysfunction. However, before you walk to the supplement aisle, it’s critical to understand what’s going on in your body.

A functional medicine practitioner will run tests to discover which nutrients are deficient in your body and then suggest natural and supplement based approaches to boost them.

Taking Care of Autoimmune Diseases

Each patient’s functional medicine treatment plan will be unique, but the first step is always to collect a thorough medical history. What we learn about that patient’s past history will guide the direction of the more in-depth testing required to find the source of the problem.

Following the completion of the testing, they turn their attention to resolving the issues that they have discovered. Dietary changes, lifestyle changes, and nutraceutical supplements are all part of this multifaceted strategy.

If you have an autoimmune condition and aren’t getting relief from traditional treatments, it might be time to consult a Functional Medicine specialist.

This journey will help you find the root cause of your condition, cure your body in non-invasive and natural ways, so you can start living a new life full of health, energy, and vitality.

FUNCTIONAL

MEDICINE PRACTITIONERS

LOTUS HOLISTIC MEDICINE

5/13 Norval Ct

Maroochydore, QLD 4558

Phone 07 5313 3577

DR. SHELLEY CAVEZZA

Yaroomba, QLD 4573

Phone 0419 821 666

ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

Telehealth and Medical Testing

Available Australia Wide

Suite 3668,9/204 Alice St

Brisbane, QLD, 4000

Phone 07 3096 0002

PULSE HOLISTIC MEDICAL CENTRE

Unit 1A/68 Jessica Blvd, Minyama, Qld, 4575

Phone 07 5477 5522

Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Hashimoto’s Disease, Grave’s Disease, and Lupus are some of the most frequent. Autoimmune cases appear to be on the rise, especially among those over 50, for reasons researchers don’t fully understand.

One-stop-shop for living your best life

Maroochydore and surrounding districts now have a one-stop-shop to enhance living -- Leef Independent Living Solutions.

Promoting wellbeing and independence, Leef search to find practical products to assist in every facet of daily life. No matter what the challenge, Leef’s friendly knowledgeable solutions-oriented team will help people to find the best way of overcoming it. Leef is an experienced national network of combined health and disability solutions.

“At Leef, we dedicate all we do to helping people feel optimistic about their independence and living their best life.”

Having been active in assisting communities across Australia for years, the new large format showpiece store in Maroochydore is their first in Queensland.

Leef are about finding ways to overcome obstacles that get in the way of people living the life they want. We pride ourselves on being the “Solution Specialists’. Our team listens to community members, their family, therapists, case managers and support workers to understand the functional and practical challenges people face and take time to research and find the best product solutions. We provide practical hints to enable people to reduce and overcome challenges whether they are caused by injury, illness, medical conditions or just ‘ageing gracefully’.

“At Leef, we have ways to make most things easier, safer or even just possible. If you or someone you love needs some assistance, don’t put off doing the activities you enjoy, instead come in and have a chat – you might be surprised with what is available. We help people achieve their goals, maintain and regain their independence to get the most out of life.”

Leef Independent Living Solutions Maroochydore are waiting to assist you live the life you want.

The Leef concept was established to consider EVERY aspect of life from the most basic daily functions of bathing, using the engagement in activities and community, maximising sleep and restfulness to feel at your best to participate in life, and identifying the management of psychological wellbeing and mood as being key to life enjoyment and satisfaction.

“We help people achieve their goals, maintain and regain their independence and get the most out of life.”

“At Leef we are about independence, being able to do the things you want, when you want, with those you want to be with – to the absolute best of your ability, we can help people do that.”

Leef Independent Living Solutions

Are you considering hip or knee replacement surgery?

Dr. Daevyd Rodda is a highly experienced and innovative hip and knee replacement surgeon based on the Sunshine Coast. He leads a specialised, multi-disciplinary team and regularly trains Australian and International surgeons in advanced techniques including:

• Anterior, minimally invasive total hip replacement

• Patient specific and Robotic knee replacement

• Complex revision hip and knee replacement

Telehealth appointments available for regional patients.

Contact us today to discuss your treatment options, or register for our free patient seminars. Phone: 07 5493 8038 | www.scorthogroup.com.au

Dr Daevyd Rodda Orthopaedic Surgeon

Pain management

Dr Frank Thomas, a passionate specialist Pain Management Physician introduces us to the growing field of Pain Management through a series of questions.

Over the past nine years, Brisbane-based Dr Thomas has travelled every month for several days to QPain clinics in Mackay, Rockhampton and the Sunshine Coast. These clinics draw referrals from all over Queensland, including many from other pain management specialists.

Dr Thomas explains: At QPain clinics, we specialise in specific treatments and have built-in expertise to which patients in remote areas can have access through these regional clinics. In the practice, I employ three nurses full-time to support patients - one has been a clinical nurse for six years, the other two are currently undergoing specific training in the field. Previously, I had a wonderful nurse with 25-years’ experience in pain management before she retired.

Could you give us an overview of this specialist field?

The field of pain management in medicine is a huge area and deals with the whole body. Nowadays, the field is a burgeoning one in terms of innovation.

Pain is the most common presentation to general practitioners. A lot of health care emphasis and dollars are directed to dealing with pain and its underlying causes.

The most prevalent population demographic seeking pain management intervention today, is currently the 50 to 70-year age group. There are also some in their 90’s, and yet others just in their 20’s living with chronic pain, too.

Current best practice in pain management clinics is offering an interdisciplinary team to help clients manage their pain. The interdisciplinary methodology looks at the bio-psycho-social aspects to pain. These teams consist of nurses, sociologists, psychologists, psychiatrists, medical specialists and allied health professionals.

The interdisciplinary team method provides both the umbrella approach (the overview) and the one that wraps securely around each individual patient and provides for many associated treatment courses to be explored. Private health clinics that offer these differentiated styles of treatment can bring solid transformation in people’s lives.

What help can Pain Management clinics offer?

Here, on the Sunshine Coast, we have an assortment of professionals from different specializations available. The contemporary emphasis is on an interventionist approach to pain management and, also, rehabilitation. The Sunshine Coast is fortunate to have four fine Pain Management Specialists: Dr Peter Georgius (Noosa area), Dr Paul Frank (Buderim), Dr Frank Thomas and another who is not currently taking on any more patients, as well as the Sunshine Coast Persistent Pain Management Service.

In 2010, the Federal Government allocated $35 million towards Pain Management affording easier access to fantastic care in this field.

What are the contemporary stand-out pain treatments?

The following are new treatments that are proving to be outstanding successes and have the most successful outcomes long term. These are the Implantable Spinal Cord Stimulator and the Radiofrequency (RF) treatment pain.

The RF procedures use high-frequency alternating current (in the AM RF range) to interrupt or alter nociceptive pathways at various sites. They are used as a therapeutic tool in a variety of chronic pain syndromes. Two modalities of RF current are used in interventional pain medicine.

Interviewer Nikki Creber

The Implantable Spinal Cord Stimulators are devices implanted under the skin that send low levels of electricity directly into the spinal cord to relieve painelectrical messaging to all pain states. These have been about for some 50 years. Often patients do not like them as they can feel it working away under their skin.

Today’s new cohort of minimally invasive stimulators offer a very different experience. A patient can test-drive these for a week. At QPain, we have found there to be a 13 to 47 per cent reduction in pain by some 50 per cent more than any other combination of medication and therapy forms.

We have found over time that 30 per cent of patients have an 80 per cent reduction in their pain. This is real transformation.

Patients can test-drive injections via day surgery, although some prefer to stay overnight. One can also have a week-long trial injection before making a decision about a permanent implant. Nowadays, with the new forms of stimulators, there is no discomfort and patients forget they have the stimulator on board. It has really transformed the field of pain management.

The radio frequency method is to cut/cauterise/poach/ burn nerves that link into painful joints to break the connection to pain and then allow the nerve to regrow. This treatment can last for three months to three years. It is not a permanent solution, however, but between treatments the patient can usually lead an active busy life. This is usually day surgery but, again, some prefer an overnight hospital stay.

There are many newish trendy treatments like Botox injections. How effective are these type of treatments?

TENS machine comes under the umbrella of physical treatment. It is predominantly counter stimulation to distract your brain from pain. It is difficult to know exactly with the range of TENS machines on the market, what delivery strength you are getting and what one needs for effective treatment. There are so many alternatives out there, we now sell a particular machine brand in our office.

Botox plays a small role in this field and is very expensive. It is a rarely used in my practice but does remain one of the tools to use.

Medicinal cannabis is used in this field and remains perhaps marginally effective.

For someone suffering with prolonged chronic pain, what is the best place to start when looking for treatment?

A referral from your GP is a necessary step only for the patient to access the Medicare rebate. At any time, Pain Management Specialists can be contacted directly, however it is important to remember that the notion of a primary health care team means in the long run you get a lot better holistic care when it includes your GP.

Any further information you would care to share?

Don’t be afraid to ask your GP to see a Pain Management Specialist. It is a patient’s right to access the best expertise and care for specific health experiences. Drugs are certainly not the answer in response to pain management anymore, and the patient deserves to have the best options for their particular needs laid out for them by the caring expert.

Dr Thomas’s background

A Specialist Pain Medicine Physician, Dr Thomas trained in anaesthesia and pain medicine in New Zealand and was the first Anaesthesiologist Registrar to be involved in establishing a Pain Management Department in New Zealand to help people with chronic pain difficulties.

He has since held specialist positions at many hospitals including the Royal Brisbane Hospital and was Director of The Persistent Pain Service at the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane from 2011 to 2013, Metro South Health Region. For the past nine years, he has worked in private practice at QPain, which he finds greatly rewarding in helping change patients’ lives and seeing them smile again – painfree.

According to Dr Thomas, pain can be very difficult to describe, with people experiencing pain in different ways and for different reasons. If a patient presents to him his assumption is that their pain is real. He says: “An alarming number of people say to me - ‘I’ve been told that the pain is all in my head.’ For some, it can be very difficult to pinpoint pain sites but if someone believes they have chronic pain, then it is always real. Finding someone who believes that the pain is real is validation for all they are going through. As difficult as it is to describe pain, I assume they have that pain and I believe them.”

PAIN SERVICE DIRECTORY

NOTE: The first port of call is to always consult with your GP.

SUNSHINE COAST PERSISTENT PAIN MANAGEMENT SERVICE (PPMS)

SCPPMS provides support, education and individual and group multidisciplinary therapy for those with persistent pain. The service can be accessed through the Nambour and Sunshine Coast University Hospital campus.

Ph: 07 5470 6758

SPECIALIST PAIN MANAGEMENT CLINICIANS

Dr Peter Georgius Suite 4, Noosa Central

6 Bottlebrush Avenue, Noosa Heads 4567

Ph: 07 5447 2144

Dr Frank Thomas Suite 605/11

Eccles Boulevard, Birtinya 4575

Ph: 07 3391 7111

Dr Paul Frank

62 King Street

Buderim 4556

Ph: 07 5476 9222

MEDICAL CANNABIS

Dr James Connell

Alchemy In Motion

Shop 2, 24 Lanyana Way, Noosa Heads , QLD 4567

Ph: 07 5474 9093

www.Alchemyinmotion.com.au

PAIN MANAGEMENT CENTRES

Noosa Pain Clinic

29 Hooper Cres

Tewantin, QLD, 4565

Ph: 07 5455 5822

The Migraine & Chronic Pain Clinic

153 Cooyar St, Noosa Heads, Qld 4567

Ph: 0400 740 400

Sunshine Coast Pain Relief

31 Mary St

Noosaville, Qld, 4566

Ph: 07 5412 1567

Energetic Wellness – Pain Relief & Energy Healing

Shop 2/141 Cooroy Noosa Rd

Tewantin, Qld, 4565

Ph: 0419 027 171

Meglio Advanced Therapies

Suite 4, Noosa Central, 6 Bottlebrush Ave, Noosa Heads, Qld, 4567

Ph: 07 5447 2144

Advanced Health Pain, Injury & Spinal Clinic

Shop 1/98 Burnett St, Buderim, Qld, 4556

Buderim - Ph: 07 5456 2836

Bokarina – Ph: 07 5213 0800

Nerve Pain Solution

Body Smart Clinic

38 Namba St

Pacific Paradise, Qld, 4564

Ph: 07 5450 5538

Sunshine Coast Radiology

Integrated Pain Management Locations in Bli Bli, Maroochydore, Warana, Nambour, Selangor

Ph: 1300 697 226

Nikki Creber A life less ordinary

It may have been 16 years ago, but Nikki Creber still vividly recalls the moment she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease like it was yesterday.

The former teacher and deputy principal was referred to a neurologist when she began having balance and mobility issues that made it difficult for her to navigate the school grounds as well as losing her voice and experiencing debilitating headaches.

“I still remember the room. I remember my neurologist’s face and I remember this overwhelming spinning feeling coming over me when he said “There is no doubt you have Parkinson’s,” says Nikki.

“I couldn’t get any words out. I saw my life pass in front of me and I saw my dreams go down a sink hole in a moment. Honestly, I had no idea what was happening or where I was.”

Leaving the doctor’s office armed with medication and instructions to take note of her symptoms over the next six months, the following four years for Nikki were nothing short of horrendous.

“The dopamine replacement medications made me incredibly ill. I couldn’t drive, I couldn’t tackle and uneven pathway, my balance was terrible and I was nauseous all day,” says Nikki.

“One day I didn’t even recognize my own reflection in the mirror. I was 48 and I looked 100 and it was then that I knew something had to change.”

Making an appointment with her neurologist, Nikki made the decision to wean herself off most of her medication and undertook extensive research on her symptoms – discovering she had a variant of the disease called MSA (Multiple System Atrophy), which was later confirmed by her neurologist.

“As it turns out, the medication I had been taking was not recommended for that variant,” says Nikki. “I decided to take back control of my life and my illness and I worked on my new Parkinson’s lifestyle protocols, which I live by to this day.”

Replacing medication with exercise, and adopting a more holistic approach to her illness, including Tai Chi, meditation, and mindfulness, not only did Nikki reclaim her life, she also managed to reverse some of the side effects of the insidious disease and now helps others to do the same.

“I believe if we are victims to Parkinson’s, it will take over and shorten our lives. But you can be the one behind the steering wheel and you can take charge. Just that mindset shift enables so much,” she says. “I have had a long journey with this disease, changing habits and adopting new ones. Four years ago, I got my sense of smell back which is unheard of, and I have got a lot of my balance problems under control.”

Passionate about helping others living with the disease, Nikki developed a unique program called Parkinson Lifestyle Protocols and Wrap around teams to help people understand and manage their condition. Nikki offers personal, face-to-face counseling and coaching and works with other support groups to help raise awareness of Parkinson’s. She is currently lobbying with businesses, health providers to attain three Nurse Practitioners for Parkinson’s disease Support on the Sunshine Coast as a pilot study in Queensland.

In November 2019, she was awarded the prestigious Australian Pacific LNG Community Hero Award at the Queensland Community Achievement Awards, as a mission-filled and purpose-driven person making a significant contribution to the People living with Parkinson’s Disease on the Sunshine Coast.

“Everyone I work with makes substantial gains in taking back control of their life, instead of feeling they have lost their dreams,” says Nikki.

“I believe everyone living with Parkinson’s is a hero.”

If you would like to support Nikki Creber, visit: www.parkinsonsdiseasecommunityadvocacy.com.au

Parkinson’s disease care guide

Where can I go for help?

Living with Parkinson’s disease or caring for someone with Parkinson’s is full of challenges, but you don’t have to feel alone. Parkinson’s Queensland currently operates 36 support groups throughout metropolitan and rural Queensland. These support groups are informal and friendly and offer members a chance to meet and talk with others while offering each other emotional and practical support. Besides helping you realise you are not alone, the support groups give you a chance to share your feelings and hear the experiences of others. Parkinson’s disease support groups are ideal for people living with Parkinson’s disease, their careers, friends and family members.

SUPPORT GROUPS

CALOUNDRA SUPPORT GROUP

Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month.

Venue: IRT Parklands, 242 Parklands Boulevard, Meridan Plains, Qld 4551

Co-ordinator: Allan and Shirley Voss

Phone 07 5437 0892

Email: allanvoss5@bigpond.com

NAMBOUR & DISTRICT SUPPORT GROUP

Meetings are held on the first Friday of every month.

Venue: The Sanctuary Park, Church of Christ, 22 National Park Rd

Nambour, Qld 4560

Co-ordinator: Ray Clark

Phone 0401 173 336

Email: ray.clark1@bigpond.com

SUNSHINE COAST SUPPORT GROUP

Meetings are held on the third Friday of every month. (Feb - Dec)

Venue: Noosa Community Centre 11 Wallace Dr, Noosaville Qld 4566

Co-ordinator: Ann Duley

Phone 0458 009 601

Email: parkuandme@gmail.com

RESOURCES

There are great resources available for those suffering with Parkinson’s and their carers. Here is a list of some of the best websites to get you started.

PARKINSON’S QUEENSLAND

Since 1985, Parkinson’s Queensland has helped thousands of Queenslanders in their journey with Parkinson’s and related disorders, not only in the early stages after diagnosis, but throughout the condition’s progression. Parkinson’s Queensland Inc (PQI) is a charitable organisation that provides individuals, families and the health, aged and disability sectors with information, support and education for people living with Parkinson’s www.parkinsons-qld.org.au

PARKINSON’S AUSTRALIA

Parkinson’s Australia is the national peak body and charity representing more than 80,000 Australians living with Parkinson’s. Parkinson’ Australia advocates for the Parkinson’s community, promotes best practice models of service delivery, works to increase awareness of Parkinson’s and provides information and education on Parkinson’s symptoms, diagnosis, causes and treatments. www.parkinsons.org.au

PARKINSON’S LIFESTYLE COACH

Nikki Creber provides support to people who have recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and those who find it hard to cope with the condition. She provides information, strategies to deal with the condition and links clients to appropriate services and support on the Sunshine Coast and Noosa.

Phone 0434 149 688 www.nikkicreber.com.au

THE BRAIN FOUNDATION

The Brain Foundation is a nationally registered charity dedicated to funding world-class research Australia-wide into neurological disorders, brain disease and brain injuries including Parkinson’s disease.

www.brainfoundation.org.au/ disorders/parkinsons-disease

SHAKE IT UP

Shake It Up Australia Foundation is a notfor-profit organisation established in 2011 in partnership with The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF). It promotes and funds Parkinson’s disease research in Australia aimed at better treatments and ultimately a cure.

www.shakeitup.org.au

MS QUEENSLAND

How MS Queensland can help MS Queensland assist people with MS and other progressive neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s disease. They provide the following services: Service coordination, NDIS access assistance, Neuro physiotherapy, Accommodation, Employment services

www.msqld.org.au/related-diseases/ parkinsons-disease/

PARKINSON’S DISEASE WARRIOR

PD Warrior is your support network, education channel, enabler, confidence giver and motivational coach. This rehab program will teach you how to move well, believe in yourself and live better with Parkinson’s .People who have completed the PD Warrior 10 Week Challenge report feeling more confident in their movements, are able to move more freely and are getting back into life. The program is offered by:

NAMBOUR SELANGOR PRIVATE HOSPITAL

62 Netherton St, Nambour QLD 4560

Phone: 07 5459 7455

EDEN REHABILITATION HOSPITAL

Sunshine Coast & Gympie

50 Maple Street, Cooroy QLD 4563 Phone 07 5472 6472

FACEBOOK SUPPORT GROUPS

@parkinsonsqld

@lifewithparkinsons @ParkinsonsAust

@michaeljfoxfoundation

LSVT LOUD? ® THE LEE SILVERMAN VOICE TREATMENT (LSVT LOUD®)

This program is currently the most efficacious treatment for the speech disorder in Parkinson’s Disease.The program is run by:

EDEN REHABILITATION HOSPITAL

Sunshine Coast & Gympie

50 Maple Street, Cooroy QLD 4563 Phone 07 5472 6472

PARKINSON’S ACTIVITY

AND PROGRAMS

DANCE FOR PARKINSON’S AUSTRALIA

GROUPS

These classes offer the joy of dance to people with motor/mobility issues as a result of Parkinson’s MS, stroke, arthritis, loss of muscle and joint strength and flexibility, or less mobility from ageing. Similar to the Dance for PD model, classes are offered in Tewantin, Noosa and Gympie by Gail Hewton who has over 35 years professional dance experience.

To register or for more information contact Gail Phone 0411 720 391

Email: gailphil@optusnet.com.au

SUNSHINE COAST HEALTH SERVICE

Run a 10 week program for people living with Parkinson’s Disease. Suite 8 Lakeshore Shopping Centre 5-9 Lakeshore Avenue

Buderim Qld 4556

Phone 07 5363 0288

HOW CAN I MAKE EVERYDAY LIVING WITH PARKINSON’S EASIER?

Being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease is life-changing and the little things that make up daily routines may seem more difficult as the condition progresses. However, these changes don’t mean the end of your independence. A big part of living with Parkinson’s disease is finding the best tools to help you continue living independently with a greater sense of confidence. As your symptoms change, look into new home care products that help you tend to every day’s tasks.

Dressing aids such as button hooks and zipper pulls can make getting dressed so much easier for those who have tremors or difficulty with coordination and balance. Bathing can be made easier with the right tools such as shower seats and long handle sponge kits. If you love cooking, you don’t have to give up your culinary passion because of difficulty with grip or tremors, with great tools available such as a cutting board with a pivoting knife or a rocking knife, the solutions are endless.

Here’s a list of some of the best online stores offering fantastic devices that help make living with Parkinson’s so much easier.

www.leef.com.au

www.lakesidemobility.com.au

www.patienthandling.com.au

www.independenceaustralia.com

BOOKS TO READ ON PARKINSON’S DISEASE

A PARKINSON’S PRIMER: AN INDISPENSABLE GUIDE TO PARKINSON’S DISEASE FOR PATIENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2004, lawyer John Vine learned a lot in the months and years following. He decided to share his experience with other people in his shoes and their families. The result is ‘A Parkinson’s Primer”.

THE PARKINSON’S PLAYBOOK: A GAME PLAN TO PUT YOUR PARKINSON’S ON THE DEFENCE.

BY ROBERT SMITH

This book gives you all the strategies you need to gain control after a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis. An entertaining and empowering book.

“I believe if we are victims to Parkinson’s it will take over and shorten our lives, but you can be the one behind the steering wheel and you can take charge. Just that mindset shift enables so much,”

Nikki Creber

Cancer Health Guide

On average, one person is diagnosed with cancer every 20 minutes in Queensland. All of us know someone who is affected. One in two Queenslanders will develop cancer before the age of 85. However, treatment can be more successful when cancer is found early.

KEY THINGS TO MONITOR AND SCREEN AS YOU GET OLDER.

Cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) includes heart disease, stroke and blood vessel disease of the limbs (periphery)s. You should have an assessment of CVD risk every 2 years unless your doctor already knows you are high risk.

Your doctor may ask you questions and test your blood pressure and cholesterol as well as check for other health conditions.

High blood pressure

You should have a blood pressure test every 2 years, or 6 to 12 months if you have a moderate risk of CVD and 6 to 12 weeks if your risk is high.

Apart from diet and exercise recommendations, other ways to prevent high blood pressure include:

• maintaining a waist measurement of less than 94cm for men and less than 80cm for women

• limiting salt to 5mg per day, or 4mg if you have high blood pressure

Cholesterol and lipids

It’s recommended you have your cholesterol and lipids checked every 5 years with a blood test, or every 1 to 2 years if you have a higher risk of CVD.

Type 2 diabetes

In your 60s you should be tested every 3 years to see if you have type 2 diabetes, or every 12 months if you are at increased risk. Your doctor will organise a blood test to check your glucose level.

Stroke

If you are at high risk of a stroke, your doctor should assess you every 12 months.

The assessment may involve a series of questions and tests for CVD risk factors including atrial fibrillation.

Immunisation

The following vaccinations are advised for people in their 60s:

• herpes zoster (shingles) — once, from 60 years old (available free on the vaccination schedule from ages 70 to 79)

• influenza — each year, from 65 years old (available free on the vaccination schedule)

Kidney disease

Kidney disease should be assessed every 1 to 2 years if you are at high risk. Risk factors can be similar to CVD or could involve an injury to your kidney.

Your doctor may ask you a series of questions as well as checking your blood pressure and doing a urine test.

Breast cancer

A mammogram is recommended every 2 years for women at lower risk from breast cancer. Women at higher risk may have an individual program developed by their doctor.

You should be familiar with the look and feel of your breasts and should see your doctor straight away if you see or feel any unusual changes.

Skin cancer

If you are in your 60s, your doctor may check your skin even if you have an appointment for another reason. If you are at high risk for skin cancer you should have a complete skin check every 6 to 12 months. Ensure that you ‘slip, slop, slap, seek and slide’ to protect your skin from future sun damage.

Cervical cancer

To test for cervical cancer, women should have a cervical screening test 2 years after their last Pap test. After that, if your result is normal they will only need to have the cervical screening test every 5 years.

Colorectal (bowel or colon) cancer

Every 2 years, it is recommended you have a test for bowel cancer using a Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT), even if you have no symptoms or family history of bowel cancer.

The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program will send you a free FOBT every 2 years. Depending on your results, your doctor may recommend that you have a colonoscopy.

Osteoporosis and fracture

Osteoporosis occurs when bones lose minerals and become more brittle, putting them at risk of fractures.

Your doctor may ask you screening questions every 12 months to assess your risk. If you are high risk or experience a fracture following a small bump or fall, this should be investigated further. This involves a simple scan with a machine, taking around 10 to 15 minutes. To help prevent osteoporosis, ensure you have 1,300mg of calcium per day if you are a woman or 1,000mg per day if you are a man.

Tooth decay and gum disease

You can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease by:

• brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

• spitting out the toothpaste, not rinsing

• using dental floss

• limiting foods and drinks high in acid and sugar

• visiting a dentist every 12 months, or more if required

Falls

When you are over 65, your doctor may assess your risk for falls every year, or every 6 months if you’ve already had a fall.

Vision and hearing

From 65, you should have a hearing test each year, and if you and your doctor think you need it, an eye test.

Dementia

Your doctor may suggest that you are assessed once you are over 65 if you have a higher risk or show symptoms of dementia.

Healthy lifestyle recommendations

Quit smoking

Eat healthy

Limit alcohol

Be physically active – Focus on strength, balance, flexibility exercises

Keep your mind at peace

CANCER SUPPORT AND SERVICE DIRECTORY

CANCER COUNCIL QUEENSLAND

Based in Maroochydore the council provide a wide range of information on local services and support.

Phone: 13 11 20

www.cancerqld.org.au

BLOOMHILL CANCER CARE

Integrated cancer care for people diagnosed with cancer and support for their families through their centre in Buderim. They currently support over 1,300 clients. Services provided:

Skilled Registered Nurses at Bloomhill offer coordination of care through assessment, support, identification of needs and referral to appropriate services. They also provide education and information and are a point of contact at any time for clients.

Allied health professional services: counselling, health psychology, nutrition and dietetics, occupational therapy and acupuncture.

Mind-body therapies: lymphedema service, oncology and remedial massage, reflexology, art therapy, meditation and mindfulness practices, yoga, Qi Gong and Pilates.

Education and wellbeing services: Bloomhill has support groups for clients, their families and carers, focusing on secondary breast cancer, brain cancer, cancer survivorship support, Myeloma peer support, young adults with cancer support and child and adolescent services.

Phone: 5445 5794

www.bloomhill.com.au

CANSURVIVE

Cansurvive a holistic cancer healing centre based in Nambour. They provide a wide range of resources and hold events to help people understand and heal from cancer.

Phone: 07 5441 5730

www.cansurvive.org.au

BEAUTIFUL YOU PROGRAM

Beautiful You Program provides practical emotional and spiritual support for women on their cancer journey. They provide practical, financial and emotional support so as to help families lead as normal a life as possible. Services include: oncology massage, beauty treatments, prosthetic and lingerie fitting service, wigs, house cleaning and activity programs

Phone 07 5445 0612

www.beautifulyouprogram.com.au

ICON

Icon Cancer Centre Maroochydore provides the latest in radiation therapy technology to treat all types of cancers in a friendly and supportive environment. They recently installed Varian’s Hyperarc technology to precisely target multiple brain metastases.

Phone 07 5414 3700

www.iconcancercentre.com.au

GENESIS CARE

Genesis Care deliver various Radiation Oncology and Allied Health Services via SCHOC. They have two treatment centres on the Sunshine Coast, at Buderim and Nambour.

Phone: 07 5445 0612

www.genesiscare.com

Did you know the four most common types of cancer in people over 55 are breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer and bowel cancer.

The importance of support throughout cancer diagnosis, treatment and beyond

Maroochydore local Liwei Thompson shares her experience with nonsmall cell lung cancer and how Icon Cancer Centre Maroochydore’s newly appointed Cancer Care Coordinator Laura Hanlon has helped her every step of the way.

For 53-year-old Liwei Thompson, a non-small cell lung cancer diagnosis in March of this year was met with complete disbelief and shock. Like many others who receive a cancer diagnosis, she was gripped by a fear of the unknown and had no idea what would happen next.

“It felt like the end of the world. I thought: do I need to organise my funeral? I couldn’t talk about my diagnosis and only confided in close family. It was really hard to accept,” Liwei says.

Life after a cancer diagnosis can be a whirlwind of appointments: seeing different medical specialists, blood tests, imaging, and only then does treatment begin. Liwei says that it was during her first consultation with her medical oncologist at Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital (SCUPH) and subsequent meeting with her radiation oncologist and cancer care coordinator at Icon Cancer Centre Maroochydore that she felt a sense of calm-in-the-storm, and was provided education and reassurance that her cancer could be treated.

Liwei went on to receive weekly chemotherapy at SCUPH alongside concurrent radiation therapy at Icon Maroochydore which she completed earlier this year. She says it was thanks to the support of Laura Hanlon, Icon’s Cancer Care Coordinator, that she was able to cope throughout this difficult time.

“Every time I came to Icon, Laura always helped me to feel better and like everything was going to be okay. I felt like she really cared. She referred me to a Mandarinspeaking psychologist and exercise physiologist, and helped me manage side effects throughout my treatment. She knew me, and I could put my trust in her.”

Dr Bryan Chan, Liwei’s medical oncologist was also impressed by the support Liwei received from Laura and the cancer care coordination service during her treatment.

“It is so great to see Laura bring her knowledge and skills to a vital role that is patient-centred, evidence-based and greatly assists patients to get through their treatment,” Dr Chan says.

Icon.

“Without a cancer care coordinator, going through treatment would be chaotic. It’s such a scary time and you have a lot of increased anxiety. You don’t see your doctor every day, but I would see Laura and could tell her my concerns and get reassurance from her expertise. It meant I didn’t have to repeat anything, she would communicate everything with the whole treating team and allied health professionals.

“Laura and the team at Icon treated me like family. I am so lucky.”

PERSONALIZED SUPPORT AT ICON

Icon Cancer Centre Maroochydore is committed to supporting the Sunshine Coast community to access the best possible care, close to home. Our dedicated cancer care coordinator is here to support you from when you receive your diagnosis, throughout your treatment and beyond. To learn more about how Laura can help you, contact Icon Maroochydore.

Pictured: Lung cancer patient, Liwei Thompson, and Icon Maroochydore Cancer Care Coordinator, Laura Hanlon

Living with dementia on your own terms

Words Ingrid Nelson

For most people, staying in the familiar surroundings of their own home for as long as their health and physical ability will allow is their first preference.

You may be lucky enough to have family or friends who can help you to live independently, however, there is also additional help available through reputable providers such as Home Care Assistance.

Providing older adults with quality care that enables them to live happier, healthier lives at home, the awardwinning provider specialises in thinking outside-thebox, particularly when it comes to caring for those with dementia.

Behind the enormous success of Home Care Assistance is owner Kendall Morton. Passionate about providing a balanced approach to ageing, centred on the evolving needs of older adults, the award-winning businesswoman is making a big difference to aged care on the Sunshine Coast.

“One of the biggest challenges for people caring for someone with dementia is that dementia is a very individual journey, so it affects people very differently,” says Kendall.

“The progression of this disease can also vary greatly from one person to another, so the impact it can have can be so different. Some of our clients have advanced dementia, but with a few strategies in place they still manage to live at home. Other people with dementia might experience aggressive behaviour or a tendency to wander, so it becomes a safety issue. The scope of effects on the individual is very large.”

Renowned for their innovative approach to aged care, Home Care Assistance provide a brain health program specifically for those with dementia to help stimulate the brain and reduce the effects of the disease. The program aims to improve quality of life by enhancing mental acuity as well as to delay onset and slow the progression of symptoms of cognitive decline.

Kendall Morton -- making a difference

“Cognitive therapeutics is for people with slight to medium cognitive decline to help keep the brain active and engaged,” says Kendall. “The brain is a bit like a muscle, if you don’t use it you lose it.”

Kendall says there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to treating dementia. Hence, she and her team of skilled carers specialise in a highly creative approach to home care.

“We believe in thinking outside the box. That is a real strength of ours, discovering what the problem is and working out how we can mitigate or overcome it.” says Kendall.

“We had a client recently with very advanced dementia who refused to get into the shower, which is not uncommon. We sourced special flooring and placed a chair in the middle of the bathroom over the drain and extended the shower hose so she could have a shower. “It turned out it wasn’t having a shower she was fearful of but rather getting into the shower cubicle.”

Not only do Home Care Assistance support those living with dementia, most importantly, they also provide care and support for those caring for someone with the disease.

“We have a lot of resources and a lot of knowledge on how we can support caring,” says Kendall.

“Caring for someone with dementia is such a process and an emotional journey. A lot of the time you are forced into making decisions for someone who has been the decision maker for you, such as a parent. There is often a lot of guilt associated with making decisions, no matter what way you go because as individuals we are very good at feeling guilt, whether it’s warranted or not.”

Offering practical tips on how to take care of yourself, how to make sure you are getting a break and ensuring you have a support network in place is all part of the service.

“It’s a bit like when you are on a plane and they tell you to fit your mask before your child in an emergency. For any mother, that goes against everything that we feel. But if you are not looking after yourself and the strategies aren’t there for you to be able to cope, then it’s not going to be a possibility for that loved one of yours to stay at home or have the choices they want.”

Although families are often on the same page, Kendall says it’s not uncommon to have division about how a loved one should be cared for and that’s where Home Care Assistance can also help.

“There are often some really big decisions to be made and it’s natural that not everyone is going to be on the same page.

“Caring is not a democracy. If you are someone who is a full-time carer of someone with dementia and you are the one going to the appointments, your vote is worth a

lot more because you are the one witnessing it. We want those people to know they are not alone. We are here to support the whole family.”

“With the right care in place, the majority of people can stay in their own home.”

“Very rarely does someone need round-the-clock care and if they do need more care, they can always top up their package with private services. It all comes down to what you value for your later years in life.

“Some people are absolutely against going to residential care and we will do whatever we can so they can stay at home and put the correct measures in place. The federal government even has a service where we can apply for a social visit with a volunteer. There are lots of things we can put in place to bridge that gap. Going into residential is not a natural progression.

“That’s not to say residential care is not a good option for some people. It’s knowing you have choices and options. If you want to stay at home, there are providers you can work with to make that happen.”

The Home Care Assistance Team

Dementia Care Guide

Where can I get help?

There are many networks that are an excellent resource for people living with dementia and offer help and support to their families and carers.

Not only do they provide a wealth of information about the disease, they are also there to guide and support you through your journey and connect you with many organisations that are dedicated to making life with dementia as easy as possible.

SUNSHINE COAST DEMENTIA NETWORK

The Sunshine Coast Dementia Network (SCDN), is the leading local network for those living with dementia and their carers . This service is the local gateway to information, services, and support.

EVENTS

Dementia Information Day – a networking event with speakers and social interaction.

Held Bi - monthly 10am – 12pm

Nambour, Central Sunshine Coast and Hinterland Catch-Up Cuppas – a social morning tea for people with dementia and their carers.

Held at Caloundra RSL, Nambour RSL and The Orangery Maleny.

Dementia Conference– held annually during seniors month at Mooloolaba Tafe

Ecumenical Services – held to support those wishing to share spirituality.

Contact: Lorrae & Vince O Rouke

Phone 0418 298 183

www.scdementia.com.au

SUNSHINE COAST DEMENTIA ALLIANCE

Provides help and support to those living or caring for someone with dementia. They run free monthly Vitality Cafes, Barefoot Bowls and organize special events and speakers.

Phone 0488 680 265 www.sunshinecoastdementiaalliance.com.au

OZ CARE DEMENTIA ADVISORY SUPPORT SERVICE (SUNSHINE COAST)

This service offers information and support to people with dementia and their families throughout Queensland. They provide a free service to help clients understand dementia and navigating aged care system. (65 and over)

Phone 1800 692 273

UNDERSTANDING DEMENTIA

ALZHEIMER’S QUEENSLAND

(for all kinds of dementia not only Alzheimer’s disease)

Offer a range of state-wide support and services including residential facilities, respite care, and in-home support, nursing and allied health services, education and training for family carers and staff. Telephone Support Group for carers. Dementia Matters newsletter. Library. Advice Line 24/7 Day. (never closes)

In-home care services offered on the Sunshine Coast.

Phone 1800 639 331 www.alzheimersonline.org

DEMENTIA AUSTRALIA

A unified national peak body for people of all ages, living with all forms of dementia, their families and carers. Family carer counselling and education sessions. Help line. Comprehensive fact sheets in many languages other than English. Young Onset Dementia (people diagnosed 65 yrs and under) advisor on Sunshine Coast.

Phone 1800 100 500 www.dementia.org.au

Dementia Australia has developed resources to assist all Australians to get a better understanding of what they can do to contribute to a dementia-friendly nation.

For more information visit www.dementiafriendly.org.au

DEMENTIA SUPPORT AUSTRALIA (DSA) LED BY HAMMOND CARE

Dementia Behaviour Management Advisory Service (DBMAS) & Severe Behaviour Response Teams (SBRT), BPSD Guide app. Provides 24/7 national support particularly on Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia

Phone 1800 699 799 www.dementia.com.au

GRACEFULLY AGEING

Run by Vickie Doolan. Her team offers a range of education programs.

Dementia Live Experience offers a real life experience of what it might be like to live with dementia.

Compassionate Touch Workshop

Simple touch techniques combined with compassionate presence to help relieve pain and anxiety. It reduces the need for medication and helps you make connection with your loved one.

Dementia Communication Workshop

For carers to successfully communicate with their loved one who is experiencing dementia.

Ageless Grace Brain Health Exercise

Seated exercise program that incorporates brain stimulation and movement.

For more information contact Vickie Doolan

Phone 0409 526 982 www.ageucate.com.au

DEMENTIA AUSTRALIA LIBRARY

People living with dementia can access an extensive Dementia Australia Library by completing an online registration form. Library resources are mailed free of charge to registrants and must be returned within four weeks of borrowing via post at the registrant’s expense. To register, contact Phone 1800 180 023

www.dementia-australia.org

Dementia Carer Workshops

may be accessed in -person via dedicated groups , or via phone or videoconference. Workshops equip people with a wealth of information regarding the impact of dementia on lifestyle, functional ability, and behaviour and supporting strategies and techniques to help improve independence and maintain quality of life.

To register for workshops, contact Phone 1800 180 023

www.dementia-australia.org

WICKING DEMENTIA RESEARCH AND EDUCATION CENTRE

Runs a range of short online courses on dementia. Topics include Preventing Dementia, Understanding Dementia. Register online

www.mooc.utas.edu.au

DEMENTIA TRAINING AUSTRALIA

Provides free online courses. www.dta.com.au

DEMENTIA RETREAT

Retreat based on the Sunshine Coast is run by Carers Outlook. It is open to carers and those living with dementia. The retreat provides education and friendship. For more information contact Lorrae & Vince O’Rourke

50 Savilles Rd, Highworth, 4560 Phone 07 5476 0642

Phone 0418 298 183

Dementia can affect anyone, but it is more prevalent in those over 65. Most people with dementia are older but it is important to remember that most older people do not get dementia.

CARER SUPPORT

CARER GATEWAY / WELLWAYS

A national platform to help carers looking after someone with disability, mental illness, dementia, a long-term health condition, an illness that will cause their death, or an alcohol or drug problem, or someone who is frail because they are old.

Carer Gateway provides practical information and advice, helps you to get the services and support you need, provides free counselling services over the phone, provides free coaching to help you in your role, lets you connect with other carers through a community forum

Phone 1800 422 737

CARERS QUEENSLAND

Sunshine Coast Services provides support to carers living on the Sunshine Coast. They provide a range of services including counselling, culturally and linguistic diverse program, disability services, information and advisory services, No Interest Loan Schemes, Support/ Therapy Groups and a Young Carer program. Carers Queensland also offers support to those under 65 with dementia to access support via the National Disability Scheme.

Level 1, 43 Plaza Parade, Maroochydore QLD 4558

Phone 07 3900 8100

CARERS OUTLOOK

A private home where carers and sometimes carees (by negotiation) come for respite. They are cared for by Vince and Lorrae O’Rourke in the rural hills of Nambour. They give presentations on dementia and also on the caring role for all members of the community, carers and staff.

For more information contact Lorrae & Vince O’Rourke

50 Savilles Rd, Nambour, 4560

Phone 07 5476 0642

Phone 0418 298 183

www.scdementia.com.au

DIVERSICARE

In-home services focusing on clients with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Caring for the needs of diverse clients with dementia

www.diversicare.com.au

Phone 1300 348 377

Phone 07 5491 9655

RESPITE SUPPORT

What is respite support?

Respite’ or ‘respite care’ is when someone else takes care of the person you care for, so that you can have a break. A break can give you time to do everyday activities or just to relax, deal with stress and look after yourself.

OVERNIGHT RESPITE

Carers can access overnight respite either through their Home Care Package, privately or via the Commonwealth Home Support Program and Carers Gateway.

RANGE CARE

Have a dedicated overnight respite facility in Flaxton. This facility is not secure and is therefore only suitable for low-level dementia care.

Phone 07 5445 7044

www.rangecare.com.au

CENTRE BASED DAY RESPITE

Centre-based respite is respite offered during the day. It provides an opportunity for clients to talk, interact with other people and participate in activities. These programs usually take place at a day centre, club or residential setting. To be eligible it is important to register with My Aged Care. Some centres may provide respite support on a fee for service basis.

Organizations that provide day respite include:

BLUE CARE DAY RESPITE CENTRES

Coolum and Dicky Beach

Phone 1300 258 322

www.bluecare.org.au

MAROOCHYDORE COMMUNITY CENTRE

Day respite for clients including people with dementia.

Phone 1800 786 227

www.suncare.org.au

RANGE CARE

Have a dedicated centre based day respite facility in Flaxton and Nambour.

Phone 07 5445 7044

www.rangecare.com.au

GLASSHOUSE COUNTRY CARE

Operate a day respite centre at Beerwah.

Phone 07 5494 6948

www.ghcare.org.au

Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common form of dementia, contributing to around two thirds of cases. The most common early symptom is difficulty remembering recent events.

MODIFIED EQUIPMENT

LifeTec Queensland is a social enterprise that provides dedicated assistive technology (AT) services with team including Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists

Phone 1300 543 383

www.lifetec.org.au

DEMENTIA CARE PRODUCTS

www.leef.com.au

www.dementiashop.com.au

www.unforgettable.org

www.best-alzheimers-products.com

www.alzstore.com

www.dailycaring.com

www.aidacare.com.au

RESEARCH CENTRES

UNIVERSITY OF THE SUNSHINE COAST MIND AND NEUROSCIENCE – THOMPSON INSTITUTE

Ground Floor, 12 Innovation Parkway Birtinya, QLD, 4575 Phone 07 5430 1191

www.usc.edu.au/sunshine-coastmind-neuroscience-thompsoninstitute/

The Queensland Brain Institute QBI Building, 79 The University of Queensland St Lucia QLD 4072

Phone 07 3346 6300

Website https://qbi.uq.edu.au

BOOKS TO READ

I WISH I WERE A LEPER

BY VINCE O’ROURKE

“I Wish I Were A Leper” is a book by Vince O’Rourke based on diary and journal entries which accurately record the journey he and his wife, Margaret O’Rourke, took with Alzheimer’s disease. Because of its early onset, the disease rapidly adversely affected Margaret’s quality of life. When asked why she would ever wish to be a leper, Margaret’s faith filled response was, “If I were a leper He could heal me”. This is a story that grabs the reader’s attention from the outset. It is a record of unconditional love, pain and suffering, hope and despair, anger and elation, as well as of a personal conflict of faith, and belief in a God of love and compassion. It speaks clearly to all who care for those suffering long term terminal diseases. Book can be purchased from Sunshine Coast Dementia Network.

FACEBOOK SUPPORT GROUPS

DEMENTIA DOWNUNDER

Dementia Downunder is a support and information group for anyone in Australia with a family member, friend, resident or patient with dementia. You may be a carer, nurse, dementia trainer or even a doctor - everyone is welcome to join this online community.

www.facebook.com/groups/ dementiadownunder/

DEMENTIA CARERS AUSTRALIA

For those who are caring for or closely connected with a loved one who has dementia and dealing with the life changing implications of that situation. This is a forum for people to vent, ask questions and find information.

www.facebook.com/groups/

DementiaCarersAustralia/

Lorrae & Vince O’Rourke

50 Savilles Rd

Highworth, 4560

Phone 07 5476 0642

Phone 0418 298 183

BOOKS TO READ

Christine Bryden was diagnosed with dementia in 1995 and has written the following books.

WHO WILL I BE WHEN I DIE? DANCING WITH DEMENTIA BEFORE I FORGET NOTHING ABOUT US, WITHOUT US

Advocating for dementia for over 20 years, Christine Bryden has been instrumental in ensuring that people with dementia are included in discussions about the conditions and how to manage and think about it.

This collection of her hard-hitting and inspiring insider presentations demands ‘nothing about us, without us!’ and promotes self-advocacy and self-reflection. Provocative and insightful, the pieces included in the book address issues that demand attention, and will change the way dementia is perceived, and the lives of people with dementia and their families.

christine@christinebryden.com

A family Guide for caring for people who have Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias and memory loss.

By Nancy L Mace and Peter V Robins

The 36-Hour Day has been an essential resource for families who love and care for people with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. The book will help family members and caregivers address challenges and simultaneously cope with their own emotions and needs. Features useful takeaway

are

MIND YOUR BRAIN – THE

By Kailas Roberts

TO

Dr Kailas Roberts is a consultant psychiatrist and psychogeriatrician with over ten years’ experience in the field of old-age psychiatry. He runs a busy private practice caring for people with cognitive difficulties, and advises on management of the behavioural and psychological difficulties that often accompany dementia. He lives in Brisbane, and Mind Your Brain: The Essential Australian Guide to Dementia is his first book.

https://www.sunshinecoastdementiaalliance.com.au

When Times Get Tough

We all go through tough times in life, and those over 55 are no exception. Whether you have fallen on hard times financially, or are experiencing difficulty finding affordable or appropriate housing, or perhaps you are suffering ill health and need assistance, there is plenty of help available on the Sunshine Coast

Community and neighbourhood centres have a wealth of information, and they can connect you to the right service and supports.

CALOUNDRA COMMUNITY CENTRE

58 Queen Street

Caloundra, Qld, 4551

Phone: 07 5438 7000

MAROOCHY NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE

Cotton Tree, 2 Fifth Avenue

Maroochydore, Qld,4558

Phone: 07 5443 6696

MOOLOOLAH VALLEY COMMUNITY CENTRE

43 Bray Road

Mooloolah Valley, Qld, 4553

Phone: 07 5494 7822

MALENY NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE

17 Bicentenary Lane

Maleny, Qld, 4552

Phone: 07 5499 9345

GLASSHOUSE MOUNTAINS NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE

1 Ryan St

Glasshouse Mountains, Qld, 4518

Phone: 07 5438 7000

MORRIS NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE

478 Old Landsborough Rd

Landsborough, Qld, 4550

Phone: 07 5494 1255

THE SHACK COMMUNITY CENTRE

19 Price St, Nambour, Qld, 4560

Phone: 07 5441 5928

“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members”

HOUSING SUPPORT

RENTCONNECT

RentConnect is a good place to start. This is a state government service that helps Queenslanders to find, secure and sustain a home to rent in the private market.

RentConnect helps people who are able to manage a tenancy but who are struggling to access the private rental market due to non-financial barriers, such as:

• Limited rental history

• A lack of skills, knowledge or understanding of how the private rental market works

• A lack of documents required for private rental applications.”

MAROOCHYDORE HOUSING SERVICE CENTRE

12 First Avenue, Maroochydore, Qld, 4558 Phone 07 5352 7333

SHARED HOUSING OPTIONS

BETTER TOGETHER HOUSING (Women Only)

This program focuses on the prevention of homelessness and loneliness of women over 55 by offering shared housing. www.bettertogetherhousing.com.au

LEGAL SUPPORT

RELATIONSHIPS AUSTRALIA QUEENSLAND (RAQ)

RAQ provides Elder Abuse Prevention and Support Service and Senior Financial Protection Service. The Elder Abuse Prevention and Support Service is a case managed service for people 60+ (or 50+ for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people) who are at risk or are experiencing Elder Abuse. They provide individualised support and referral.

Services include:

• Face to face support with a dedicated case manager

• Development of safety plans

• Referral to dedicated legal practitioners to provide legal information and advice

• Referral to counselling or mediation as required

• Referral to other relevant services that may assist you to achieve the agreed goals of an individualised case plan

• Community education and Information regarding elder abuse prevention strategies.

27 Evans St Maroochydore, Qld, 4558 Phone: 1300 304 277 www.raq.org.au

SUNCOAST COMMUNITY LEGAL SERVICE INC.

Suncoast Community Legal Service is an independent, non profit community organization providing general legal advice, referrals and education to the Sunshine Coast Community. Their service covers the following areas: Maroochydore, Caloundra, Landsborough, Noosa, Pomona, Maleny and Nambour. Appointments must be made. No walk-ins.

The TAFE Building, Ground Floor 170 Horton Parade, Maroochydore, Qld 4558 Phone 07 5376 7800

www.suncoastcommunitylegal.org

ADA – AGED AND DISABILITY ADVOCACY

ADA Australia offers free, confidential client directed advocacy, education, support related to Commonwealth funded aged care services, disability services, human rights and elder abuse advocacy. Most of their work is done over the phone making them easy to access..

Phone 1800 818 338

www.adaaustralia.com.au

MENTAL HEALTH

LIFELINE – 13 11 14

Counselling for those in crisis or need of support

SUICIDE CALL BACK SERVICE

– 1300 659 467

Mental health counselling and suicide prevention

MENSLINE – 1300 78 99 78

Men’s mental health

BEYOND BLUE HELPLINE

– 1300 22 4636

Provides support and treatment advice for those experiencing depression

OPEN ARMS – 1800 011 046

Mental health and wellbeing programs for veterans and their family members

FOOD ASSISTANCE

SALVOS CONNECT – 1300 371 288

To access food services and support from any of the Salvation Army outlets on the Sunshine Coast.

ST VINCENT DE PAUL SUPPORT CENTRE – 1800 846 644

To access food services and support from Vinnies on the Sunshine Coast.

GATEWAY FOOD CENTRE CALOUNDRA

Gateway provides an essential support to many low income families who enjoy the benefit of buying low cost groceries from their food centre. Their alfresco café provides members and visitors with a barista made coffee for just $2 and support staff (Counsellors) are always available for those that need one on one help or just want to have a chat and share their story.

SUNCOAST CARE NAMBOUR

Cost reduced groceries. You need a concession card or proof of low income to be a member of the shop. Store open 9am – 3pm Monday to Friday.

24 Howard Street, Nambour (next to Vinnies), Qld, 4560 Phone 07 5441 4877

THE SHACK NAMBOUR

A non-denominational Christian community centre offering free one-on-one counselling, social interaction through breakfast, lunch and common area coffee zone. Homeless support, including shower facilities.

19 Price Street, Nambour, Qld, 4569 Phone 07 5441 5928

11 Helen Street

Caloundra West, Qld, 4551 Phone 07 5458 6888

SHINE COMMUNITY CARE

Provide assistance to people doing it tough on the Sunshine Coast. Whether through food packs, backyard blitzes, social gatherings, Christmas hampers, or practical one-on-one help.

3 Premier Circuit, Warana, Qld, 4575 Phone 07 5493 1243

URBAN ANGELS COMMUNITY KITCHEN

Level 2, Centenary Square, 52-64 Currie St, Nambour, Qld, 4560 Phone 07 5452 7774

www.ifys.com.au

HEALTHCARE

SUNNY STREET

Sunny Street is a Doctor & Nurse led outreach service providing primary healthcare and complex coordination services for homeless and vulnerable individuals and families. Their mission is to facilitate community connectivity and improve access to health care options.

Phone 07 5313 7778

www.sunnystreet.org

GP AND NURSING OUTREACH HEALTHCARE TIMETABLE

Monday 7.00AM – 9AM

The Shack

19 Price St Nambour, Qld, 4560

Tuesday 4.30PM -6.30PM

Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre

2 Fifth Avenue

Maroochydore, Qld, 4558

Wednesday 4.30PM – 6.30PM

The Daily Bread

24 Howard St

Nambour, Qld, 4560

Thursday 4.30PM -6.30PM

Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre

2 Fifth Avenue

Maroochydore, Qld, 4560

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

SENIOR FINANCIAL PROTECTION SERVICE

The SFPS seeks to increase Older Queenslanders’ protection against financial abuse and respond to the needs of Older Persons who may be at risk of financial abuse.

The service is underpinned by an early intervention approach that seeks to reach people before their situation reaches crisis point. SFPS strives to reach older Queenslanders in the community who are in the process of making financial decisions for later life and support them to make informed decisions.

SFPS also provides support through referrals to those already impacted by financial abuse and, in some instances, offers financial case management.

Maroochydore Office

Suite 20, 27 Evans Street

Maroochydore, Qld 4558 Phone 1300 364 277 www.raq.org.au

NO INTEREST LOAN SCHEMES

The No Interest Loans Scheme provides people on low incomes access to safe, fair and affordable access to credit. The scheme offers loans of up to $1,500 for essential goods and services. There are no interest charges or fees.

Carers Queensland

Phone 07 5409 3300

Caloundra Community Centre

Phone 5491 4000

Morris House

Neighbourhood Centre

Phone 5494 1255

Salvos Connect

Phone 1300 371 288

St Vincent De Paul

Phone 1800 643 846

Social housing it’s time for a change

Words Ingrid Nelson

When we retire, we want to live a happy, safe and comfortable life after all the years of hard work and sacrifice. But the reality is that many seniors face housing poverty due to a set of circumstances often beyond their control.

Social housing is available to provide housing stability to vulnerable people who aren’t able to access and sustain housing in the private market, but unfortunately the accommodation provided is not always suitable for the aged community and their specific needs and health requirements.

Latest figures show there were 20,820 people waiting for public housing across Queensland as of June 30, 2020. That number was up from 15,817 a year earlier, with more social and affordable housing needed in the major cities and regional areas across the country.

Unfortunately, older women are finding themselves over-represented in the state’s escalating homelessness problem as many suddenly find themselves single, unable to work and priced out of the rental market.

In fact, older women are the fastest-growing group among the state’s homeless for reasons ranging from the sudden disintegration of long-standing relationships, a lack of savings or superannuation, or time out of the fulltime workforce leaving them with limited job or income opportunities other than the age pension or subsidies. The latest Rental Affordability Index (RAI), found rental affordability for single people on an aged pension across the country was “alarmingly poor”.

Ingrid Nelson sat down with one Sunshine Coast woman who has been a voice for seniors in need for many years. A resident of a social housing community herself, she is passionate about seeing social housing created especially for the senior community.

This is her story …

Imagine having to check your locks three times before you go to bed at night for fear of someone breaking in, having your gardens turned upside down when you leave your home, or your car damaged because you phoned the police to report the abuse and bad language you are subjected to daily from your unruly neighbours. This is the reality for 76-year-old Patricia Munro who has lived in social housing on the Sunshine Coast for the past 15 years.

“There are about 66 people living here in the complex, they are all supposed to be seniors, but they are not,” says Patricia.

“There are people living here who have a criminal history, there are drug addicts, people with chronic mental health issues.

“I had an incident recently with one of the men who lives here. He nearly ran me down with his bike, and then he put his fingers to my head like a gun and said ‘I’m gonna get rid of you’.

“That’s the sort of thing I and the other seniors have to put up with every day, it’s just frightening to live here”

It’s a shocking and confronting story, but sadly, this is not an isolated incidence. In fact, many seniors residing in social housing live with a constant element of fear and are afraid to raise their voice.

Patricia would like to see affordable rental accomadation made available to seniors.

Aged care guide

Sundale - the future of aged care on the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast continues to be Australia’s most desirable ‘sea change’ destination.

With a world class hospital, enviable medical facilities, a progressive university, stunning restaurants and resort-style golf courses on our doorstep, it is little wonder people contemplating a simpler and more carefree lifestyle are investigating what the Sunshine Coast has to offer.

An influx of ‘sea-changers’ is helping shape the region. Sunshine Coast residents are seven years older than the average Australian (37 years of age), while over 65-yearolds make up more than 20 per cent of the Sunshine Coast population, with this figure trending up.

Younger Baby Boomers and those from Gen X, who are now in their fifties, want amenity that will evolve to suit their changing needs.

COVID-19 and the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety forced Sundale along with a host of other providers to pause their plans for the Sunshine Coast.

However, with clarity returning to the sector, Sundale is looking at the future of aged care with a new renewed focus, so it can cater for the needs of the community for decades to come.

Sundale CEO, Danielle Mackenzie said exciting developments are either underway or scheduled to begin at Coolum, Palmwoods, Nambour and Tewantin.

“Backed by extensive research, coupled with the recommendations recently handed down by the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, we now know what retirees want and the services they will expect in the future,” Ms Mackenzie said.

“Sundale’s comprehensive roadmap for change will prioritise continuum of care, allied health assistance and specialist support services, including In-Home Care, which will support people to stay in their homes for longer.

“We’re also evaluating models of accommodation, including independent living units and the small household model, which would be unique to Sundale on the Sunshine Coast.

“Sundale’s small household model of accommodation could include a purpose-built home of approximately 10 residents who each have their own bedroom and ensuite, which are designed around a communal living and dining area to replicate the feel of a family home.”

Ms Mackenzie said along with great design, those looking to retire on the Sunshine Coast want evolving In-Home Care services, to feel part of a community and access to innovative technology.

“We’re not far away from driverless cars and voice activation is becoming commonplace, therefore, it is no surprise technology will be at the forefront of future Sundale developments,” Ms Mackenzie said.

“This technology will ensure residents can remain connected with family or friends and access the services they need, whenever they want.”

If you’d like to know more about Sundale, visit sundale. org.au or call 1800 786 325.

Sundale is looking at the future of aged care with a new renewed focus, so it can cater for the needs of the community for decades to come.

Sundale CEO, Danielle Mackenzie

Navigating the aged care system

My Aged Care is the starting point for people over 65years and is the gateway for information, assessment, and referral service.

There are multiple options for you or a member of your family to contact My Aged Care.

Phone 1800 200 422

Website www.myagedcare,gov.au

Opening Hours Mon – Fri 8am -8pm Saturday 10am – 12pm

TYPES OF SERVICES YOU CAN ACCESS THROUGH MY AGED CARE

1. Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP)

This offers a range of basic care services in the home which are suited to people who are mainly independent but need some help with daily living tasks. Services are subsidised by the Government but you may be asked to pay a small fee, which depends on your income and the services you need.

Types of services include:

• Personal care

• Assistance with housekeeping (cleaning, laundry etc)

• Home maintenance

• Meals (help with cooking or delivered meals)

• Social support

• Transport

• Health services (nursing, allied health etc).

2.

Home Care Packages available for those who may have more complex needs to be able to receive care in their home rather than a residential service. There are four levels of Home Care Package for different levels of care and support needs. Each level receives a different amount of funding. You may be required to pay a basic daily fee plus an additional contribution based on your assessable income. This additional fee is capped to an annual amount and a lifetime cap. These packages are offered as Consumer Directed Care, which means you can direct how the funds are spent. Types of services you can access include

• Personal services

• Nutrition, hydration, meal preparation and diet

• Continence management

• Mobility and dexterity

• Nursing, allied health and therapy services

• Transport and personal assistance

• Management of skin integrity

A home care package may also support the use of:

Telehealth: video conferencing and digital technology (including remote monitoring) to increase access to timely and appropriate care Assistive technology: such as devices that assist mobility, communication and personal safety Aids and equipment: particularly those that assist a person to perform daily living tasks can be purchased using funds from your package budget.

Approved home care providers work in partnership with you to tailor care and services to best support your needs and goals.

Home Care Package

“I am 92 years, had a fall in the garden grazing my leg and I fear falling again.”

“My mother is getting confused and has started to get lost when out and I feel she is no longer safe at home.”

These situations and statements are not uncommon, but the question that often follows is: “How can I get help, and where do I go?”

“I am 84 years and starting to struggle, my back hurts when I clean the bathroom.”

3. Short term restorative care

Short-term restorative care is designed to help you reverse or slow the difficulties you are having with everyday tasks. If you wish to return to earlier levels of independence, short-term restorative care could be an option for you. The program is delivered by a team of health professionals there to help you manage or adapt to your changing needs.

4. Transitional care

Transition care helps you recover after a hospital stay. It provides short-term specialised care and support to help you regain your functional independence and confidence sooner, and avoid the need for longer term care and support services. The service can be delivered in a residential setting or at home.

5. Residential Respite

Residential Respite provides short-term care on a planned or emergency basis in aged care homes to people who have been assessed and approved to receive it. ... The primary purpose of residential respite is to give a carer or care recipient a break from their usual care arrangements. A person who is approved for residential respite care can have up to 63 days of subsidised respite care in a financial year. This can be extended by up to 21 days at a time if approved by an ACAT.

6. Permanent Residential Care

Permanent Residential Care option is for those who can no longer live at home and need ongoing help with everyday tasks or health care. Leaving your own home and entering an aged care home isn’t an easy decision, but it doesn’t have to be a daunting one. An aged care home can give you the care and services you need to maintain your quality of life.

What to prepare before making the phone call to My Aged Care

To prepare, make a note of your medical history, issues you are facing with your health, what areas of your life this is having an impact on and where you need support. You will need your Medicare card handy as they will ask you for this over the phone. It is good to have someone with you when you make this call. When registering yourself on My Aged Care you can register and give permission to another person maybe your spouse or children to access your file in the future and speak on your behalf with My Aged Care.

My Aged Care telephone assessment. What to expect

Make contact with My Aged Care they will undertake a telephone assessment. At the end of the assessment depending on the level of support you require they will either refer you on to a Regional Assessment Service or the Aged Care Assessment Team. The Regional Assessment Service or Aged Care Assessment Team will then make contact with you for an in-home assessment.

What is the difference between the Regional Assessment Service (RAS) and the Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS)?

The RAS undertake assessment for basic entry level services provided through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP). In this instance, the initial telephone assessment would have deemed that basic support was needed.

The ACAS on the other hand undertakes a comprehensive assessment by a clinician for those deemed through the initial telephone assessment to have complex health issues and limited support that cannot be met through the basic Commonwealth Home Support Program. ACAS provide approval for the Commonwealth Home Care Package, Residential Respite, Permanent Residential Care, Short Term Restorative Care and Transitional Care.

Preparing for the in-home assessment

Have two forms of ID ready. It is helpful to have a summary of your health conditions and medications listed. Keep a note of the type of support you need.

At the assesment which can take 1-2 hours you can have a family member or support person to be present.

After your face-to-face assessment, you will find out if you’re eligible for government-funded services - and if so, which ones you’re eligible for.

Accessing services

Those approved for a Home Care Package will be put on a national waiting list and will be advised via letter when their package is allocated to them.

Those approved for the Commonwealth Home Support Program will be given service reference codes to activate with a Commonwealth home support program provider.

Those approved for short term restorative care, residential respite, transitional care and permanent residential care, can access services once approved. The Aged Care Assessment Team and Regional Assessment Service will provide clients with a list of service providers in the area. You can also get information from the My Aged Care website.

Private Care

If you don’t want to go through the formal government pathway to access care and support in the home, you can always contact services providers on the Sunshine Coast to access support on a fee for service. Most home care providers offer a private care service.

IF YOU FIND THIS WHOLE PROCESS DAUNTING AND NEED HELP, THEN CONTACT THE FOLLOWING BUSINESSES:

AGED CARE ADVICE

IAGEWELL SENIOR SERVICE HUB

Phone 07 3041 1355 Mobile 0407 748 773 www.iagewell.com.au

AGED CARE FACTS

Phone 0408 714 973 jim@agedcarefacts,com.au

FINANCIAL ADVICE

SAGE CARE ADVICE

Phone 07 5322 5333 www.sagecareadvice.com.au

GARDEN FINANCIAL SERVICES

Phone 07 5437 2744 www.gardenfs.com.au

Diversicare’s Multicultural Advisory Service provides information on aged care to people from all cultures and free cross cultural training for aged care providers.

We also develop multicultural and multilingual resources to support the provision of culturally appropriate services and provide cultural support to service providers when working with multicultural clients and communities.

For

Multicultural

in Sunshine Coast, please call 0447 721 968.

more information on the

Advisory Service

Live well with assisted living

Assisted living apartments are an attractive proposition for older Australians who desire a little extra support but know they are not ready for aged care.

For Betty and Marcus, long-term residents of the Aveo Lindsay Gardens retirement village in Buderim, they offer peace-of-mind as they age.

A fairly independent couple with a colourful history, Betty and Marcus originally moved to the retirement village to stay socially connected and for the convenience it offered.

“We’ve had a very blessed life. I think we have lived in 36 different homes during our married life! We have lived many different lives. It was my decision to initially look at retirement villages. I thought we would be lonely in a unit in Brisbane and the social aspect was huge – it means quite a bit for me! We originally moved into the village because we loved the environment, the gardens and the fact that we’re walking distance from Buderim. We just loved it and had a good feeling about it,” says Betty.

But after 23 years in their retirement villa, they soon realised the benefits of assisted living and the services it can provide to help retirees live well.

“We loved our villa, of course, but we decided it was time to move to assisted living in a serviced apartment. We’re not getting any younger, we are a little slower, and we thought that assisted living offers the ongoing services that we need to make life a lot easier,” Betty admits.

It was a move the couple have hardly regretted since.

“Our families were a little worried about us moving into an apartment at first, but now they have seen it, they are more than happy. We invited them over to look at it and they love it and the environment. They can see why we are living where we are,” Betty says.

“Our serviced apartment feels like home to us, it is very cosy. We are still fairly independent, but we receive so much support from the lovely staff onsite. From the front staff to the kitchen, everyone is always helpful.

“And after 67 years of cooking, I am very happy not to have to do that now. The meals are delicious, and staff even ask me what I would like in my meals – that is how good they are.”

For anyone who might be unsure about living in a retirement village, Betty’s advice is resounding.

“Don’t leave it too late. It can be traumatic and daunting, particularly if you are doing everything by yourself. Retirement villages have a great social aspect. You are never lonely and you can do as much or as little as you want.”

Aged Care Financial Advice -- the Sage way

Bruce Baynes has had first-hand experience when it comes to the emotional rollercoaster of navigating the aged care system.

It wasn’t until Bruce Baynes, founder and director of Sage Care Advice, faced the struggle of his own father entering aged care that he realised how difficult the process can be for the elderly and their families.

“I had no idea of the Centrelink forms and paperwork involved, pressure to find a suitable facility and all the approvals needed from a clinical assessment and government level,” says Bruce an Accredited Aged Care Advisor.

“I found the experience daunting as I thought it was just a matter of getting the numbers right. There’s a lot more to this that people need help with.”

With over 20 years experience in providing financial advice, it was the catalyst for Bruce to create his own business, dedicated entirely to helping the aged care sector with funding issues. Sage Care Advice was established in 2017 and has grown to become a dedicated team who are passionate about helping their clients make smart decisions based on the right information and advice.

A finalist in the Sunshine Coast Business Awards and the only business of it’s kind on the Sunshine Coast, Bruce says he and his team are delighted to make a difference to people’s lives at a very difficult and highly emotional time in their lives.

“We started with three of us and four and a half years later we now employ an additional four staff and still have the same passion for what we do. I have a wonderful team who all get on so well and all are like family to me. We all love what we do.”

“I’ve lost all my hair navigating the system so others don’t have to,” laughs Bruce

With a little preparation and support from the right professionals, families of those entering aged care can avoid a lot of stress. This allows them to focus on what is important, being with their loved ones, during what is often an emotional time.

Sage Care Advice, is Sunshine Coast’s leading aged care financial planning firm. Contact the team for a cost-and obligation-free appointment on 07 5322 5333.

To download the step-by-step guide to aged care, visit www.sagecareadvice.com.au

Words Ingrid Nelson

Photos Empire Art Photography

ESSENTIALS

OF AGED CARE PLANNING: An Aged Care Specialist Adviser’s top four tips

Whether you’re organising aged care for a loved one or pre-planning for yourself, the whole process can seem overwhelming. Prioritising the essential tasks and beginning preparation early will ensure that you have everything in place to make the transition into aged care as smooth and stress-free as possible. Ready to begin planning for aged care? Here’s where we recommend you start:

1 . Get ACAT Approved

Your ACAT approval is your ‘ticket to the concert’ so to speak… if you don’t have one, you can’t get in! In order to qualify for subsidised residential aged care, the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) will need to assess your eligibility. Once you have ACAT approval for permanent residential care, it does not expire. For more information on ACAT approval, visit: www.myagecarecare.com.au.

2. Have an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) in place

Without a valid EPA, family members are not permitted to make health or financial decisions on behalf of their loved ones. Organising an EPA once someone has lost capacity is a logistical nightmare that requires an application to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal, a process that can take months. Appointing an EPA while a person still has capacity is a much easier path and a decision that your family members will thank you for in the future.

3. Ensure asset information is easily accessible

Understanding your investments and having documentation of your assets on hand is essential when it comes to completing the Services Australia Income and Asset Assessment, the form that determines aged care fees. Ensuring that you have access to the balances of all investments will speed up the paperwork process for you or your adviser.

4. Employ a professional to handle the finances

Aged care is affordable to everyone, you may just need the help of an expert to show you how. Australian Aged Care legislation is complex and in-depth knowledge of not only the legislation but of superannuation and estate planning is often necessary to develop the best possible Aged care funding strategy for your individual situation. Employing a specialist in this field will save you time and money and give you the confidence to make informed decisions about your aged care choices.

The friendly faces of the Sage Care Advice team

Choosing the right home care package solution for you

For far too long consumers have been restricted by poor quality service, disadvantaged by fees, unable to access much-needed services, and so much more. It’s no wonder Home Care Package holders are fed up with traditional providers.

Australia’s first self-managed provider, Let’s Get Care knew consumers were sick and tired of these industry norms and were revolutionary in paving the way for a new era. Consumers no longer had to settle for a Provider that didn’t meet their needs.

In June 2020, Let’s Get Care pioneered a part-managed solution through its sister brand Just Home Care Packages, giving consumers even more choice in how they wanted their care managed.

With the final report from the Royal Commission into Aged Care and the release of 80,000 new packages by 2023, it’s important, now more than ever, to ensure you’re getting the most from your Home Care Package.

That’s why it’s best to assess all the available options to find a Provider who’s the perfect fit for you. To help, we’re uncovering the key differences between a selfmanaged or part-managed Home Care Package.

What’s Self-Management:

With self-management, the consumer is responsible for sourcing care and support services they’re happy with -- putting you in control of who enters your home and when.

Self-management is for consumers who want to remain as independent as possible or have the assistance of someone who can self-manage their package for them.

If you self-manage with Let’s Get Care, you pay 13 per cent, that’s it: no set-up fee, no exit fees, and no surcharge for using services of your choice.

What’s Part-Management:

Part-management means that your Care Manager will set up local supports and services specialised to your care needs. This takes the stress out of sourcing suppliers.

Then once it’s all set up, you’re the boss! It’s over to you to coordinate the services and adapt care as your needs change. The bonus is your Care Manager is always there to provide support if needed. Part-Management offers the best of both worlds.

With Just Home Care Packages, this specialised support is an unbeatable low rate of 17 per cent and nothing more. This is unheard of in the industry.

How they’re breaking industry norms:

While Let’s Get Care and Just Home Care Packages offer different solutions to suit your situation, there’s a lot they have in common:

• More choice and control

• Continuity of care

• 24/7 access to your funding balance

• Invoices paid within 3-5 business days

• Care and support at market rates

• Access to Australia’s widest network of suppliers

Speak with a Care Expert from Let’s Get Care today to discuss your unique situation and determine which solution would suit you best.

PHONE 1300 497 442

A blooming great idea!

With almost 30-years’ experience in the aged care sector, Sunshine Coast carer, Rita Rumler has developed a well-rounded understanding of the challenges faced by the aged community.

Passionate about providing a safe and secure environment for the elderly, where they can live independently in a home-away-from-home environment, Rita has taken the first steps towards her lifelong dream by creating an exciting new platform called The Bloom Project.

The project is designed to give seniors a home where they can be cared for, while still maintaining their sense of independence and freedom, underpinned by a financial and legal framework that will protect their interest. It will also include the groundwork for others who wish to open up their home to seniors in need.

The idea behind the project was sparked when one of Rita’s aged-care clients, Joan, lost her husband of 70 years, leaving her worried about the future and fearful about where she would live.

“Joan was scared to live at home alone and knew it would be unsafe for her,” said Rita. “At that stage residential care seemed to be her one and only option as she had no family to turn to, but that was not something she was comfortable with.

“I had developed a close friendship with Joan and her husband and knew after Colin’s death he would want someone to care for his beloved Joan. It was then I took the step to take Joan into my home where I can help to take care of her with the support of her home care package.”

The success of this partnership has now found a life of its own, with others wanting to be a part of Rita’s home. With support from Joan, Rita is now looking to source a dwelling that will accommodate several people who are seeking this type of living arrangement, rather than a residential aged care setting.

“If I could just give at least a few people the life they dream of, a life that is more desirable for the latter years, then I will be happy,” says Rita.

“Projects like this build on the spirit of community. We all need to play our part, help where we can and make the world a better place. Having Joan live with me, is nothing short of a privilege”.

If you want to know more about ‘The Bloom Project’, please phone Rita on 0418 719 278.

Words Ingrid Nelson

Photo Empire Art Photography

Carers that drive

In 2009, Suzie Coghlan was juggling caring for elderly parents and an adult daughter with a disability, while working as an interior designer. She found herself driving on the road a great deal trying to shuffle and juggle appointments.

Seeing the lack of support available, she realized there was a need for a personalized transport service and with the prompting and encouragement of her mother she established Carers That Drive, in NSW.

This unique service matches caring, qualified supporters with people, from all walks of life and abilities, who need help getting out and about in their car or ours. The service even allows clients to travel with their furry friends. Clients, once registered, can carpool together.

“One of the best aspects of the business,” Suzie says, “is building meaningful relationships with our clients. Our clients become a part of our extended family and we work together to help them find the independence they are seeking.

In 2021, the service was launched on the Sunshine Coast with the help of local resident Paul Sutton. Under his guidance the team on the Sunshine Coast has grown and response to the service has been fantastic.”

If you would like a transport service that is designed to meet your lifestyle goals then contact Paul Sutton, Queensland manager on 0403 696 690 to discuss your needs.

Carers that Drive are a Registered NDIS provider and family owned Australian business.

Photo Empire Art Photography

The gift that keeps on giving

It all began back in 1997 when Colin collapsed on a construction work site twice in one day. He was eventually diagnosed with left ventricular cardiomyopathy, but a successful medication plan kept him stable and life continued on.

Five years later the decline started, first Colin was fitted with an ICD (internal defibrillator), in 2010 he had his first cardiac arrest and then the panic attacks started. After multiple cardiac arrests, regimes of new medication and a very close call with death, Colin found himself on the heart transplant waitlist.

“It got to the point where I had to watch people doing the simplest of tasks for me and I struggled to walk 30 metres without a break, stairs were a terrifying plight!” Colin said.

“I went from a healthy, strong tradie to a shadow of the man I was.”

In April 2016, while in hospital following surgery for a Ventricular Assist Devise (an implanted pump) Colin was told he wouldn’t be leaving hospital after all…a donor heart had been found for him.

guardian angel (my heart transplant coordinator) come and tell me I was getting a new heart! After a hug and a cry, I got prepared to meet Kong, my affectionate name for my donor heart.”

Colin and his wife Cheryl now love to caravan all around the countryside spreading the organ donation message at every caravan stop. He said he is incredibly grateful to his donor and their family.

“To me, they are everything. Without the selfless gesture of my donor I would not have been here for the marriages of our two sons and to welcome our beautiful granddaughter into this world, I’m forever grateful.”

463 deceased organ donors saved the lives of 1270 Australians in 2020.

Registration is easy and takes less than a minute at www.donatelife.gov.au with your Medicare Card number.

A once healthy, fit tradie, Colin Manderson’s world turned upside down when he ended up on the heart transplant waitlist

“I will never forget the moment I received the news I was to receive a new heart,”

Residential aged care facility directory

CALOUNDRA

BLUE

BOLTON

COOLUM BEACH 4573

ST MARY’S AGED CARE

17 Magenta Drive

Phone: 07 5446 5096

www.stmarysagedcare.com.au

COOLUM WATERS – by SUNDALE

4 Wembley Road

Phone: 07 5455 1111

www.sundale.org.au

COOROY 4563

NOOSACARE – KABARA

20 Topaz Street

Phone: 07 5447 7355

www.noosacare.com.au

CURRIMUNDI 4551

OZCARE CAROLINE CHISHOLM AGED CARE FACILITY

28 Saffron Drive

Phone: 07 5413 8400

www.ozcare.org.au

DICKY BEACH 4551

BLUE CARE DICKY BEACH AGED CARE FACILITY

55 Coolum Street

Phone: 1800 838 929

www.bluecare.org.au

OPAL CALOUNDRA PLACE

4 Lyon Street

Phone: 07 5390 0200

www.opalhealthcare.com.au

KULUIN 4558

REGIS KULUIN

354 Main Road

Phone: 1300 998 100

www.regis.com.au

LITTLE MOUNTAIN 4551

CALOUNDRA ADVENTIST RESIDENTIAL CARE

64 Sunset Drive Phone: 07 5491 3544

www.arplus.org.au

CHURCHES OF CHRIST LITTLE MOUNTAIN AGED CARE SERVICE

211 Parklands Boulevard

Phone: 07 5436 4100

www.cofc.com.au

SOUTHERN CROSS CARE CALOUNDRA AGED CARE

57 Village Way Phone: 07 5492 6866

www.sccqld.com.au

PALM LAKE CARE (Open 2022)

96 Village Way Phone: 1800 246 677

www.palmlakecare.com.au

MALENY 4552

BLUE CARE MALENY EROWAL AGED CARE FACILITY

1274 Landsborough Road Phone: 1800 838 929

www.bluecare.org.au

MAROOCHYDORE 4558

ARCARE MAROOCHYDORE

54 Dalton Drive

Phone: 07 5452 8300

www.arcare.com.au

ESTIA HEALTH MAROOCHYDORE

2-6 Amity Drive

Phone: 07 5391 4800

www.estiahealth.com.au

REGIS MAROOCHYDORE

33 Allora Drive

Phone: 1300 998 100

www.regis.com.au

ST VINCENT’S MAROOCHYDORE AGED CARE

37 Baden. Powell Street

Phone: 1300 954 130

www.svcs.org.au

MERIDAN PLAINS 4551

IRT WOODLANDS

22 Lacebark Street

Phone: 13 44 78

www.irt.org.au

MOUNT COOLUM 4573

ESTIA HEALTH MOUNT COOLUM

15 Suncoast Beach Drive

Phone: 07 5343 0200

www.estiahealth.com.au

NAMBOUR 4560

ESTIA HEALTH NAMBOUR

27 Glenbrook Drive

Phone: 07 5459 3600

www.estiahealth.com.au

GLENBROOK RESIDENTIAL

AGED CARE FACILITY

4 Jack Street

Phone: 07 5459 7700

www.health.qld.gov.au

OPAL NAMBOUR GARDENS

9 Princess Crescent

Phone: 07 5444 9700 www.opalhealthcare.com.au

NAMBOUR GARDEN VILLAGE

– by SUNDALE

35 Doolan Street

Phone: 07 5441 0700 www.sundale.org.au

NOOSA HEADS 4567

OZCARE NOOSA HEADS

80 Cooyar Street

Phone: 07 5473 6400

www.ozcare.org.au

NOOSAVILLE 4566

ARCARE NOOSA

52 Goodchap Street

Phone: 07 5470 3600 www.arcare.com.au

PACIFIC PARADISE 4555

THE MENZIES @ PACIFIC PARADISE

26 Menzies Drive

Phone: 07 5376 7400

www.premierhealth.com.au

PALMWOODS 4564

PALMWOODS GARDEN VILLAGE – by SUNDALE

61 Jubilee Drive

Phone: 07 5457 4444

www.sundale.org.au

PELICAN WATERS 4551

ST MARY’S AGED CARE

31 Verdon Street

Phone: 07 5492 4044

www.stmarysagedcare.com.au

PEREGIAN SPRINGS 4573

ARCARE PEREGIAN SPRINGS

33 Ridgeview Drive

Phone: 07 5351 2500

www.arcare.com.au

SIPPY DOWNS 4556

REGIS SIPPY DOWNS

96 University Way Phone: 1300 990 100

www.regis.com.au

TEWANTIN 4565

NOOSA CARE – CARRAMAR

186 Cooroy-Noosa Road

Phone: 07 5449 8799

www.noosacare.com.au

JAPARA NOOSA

119 Moorindil Street

Phone: 07 547 1840

www.japara.com.au

TWIN WATERS 4564

ESTIA HEALTH TWIN WATERS

190 Ocean. Drive

Phone: 07 5646 4120

www.estiahealth.com.au

WARANA 4575

BLUE CARE WARANA BEACHWOOD AGED CARE FACILITY

124 Nicklin Way

Phone: 1800 838 929

www.bluecare.org.au

TRI CARE KAWANA WATERS AGED CARE RESIDENCE

Riveraine Avenue

Phone: 07 5436 9000

www.tricare.com.au

WOOMBYE 4559

WOOMBYE C.A.R.E. NANGARIN LODGE

26 Redmonds Road

Phone: 07 5468 3500

www.woombyecare.org.au

Sunshine Coast home care providers

Sunshine Coast home care providers

General service directory

Trusted local businesses that support ageing and vibrant living.

BEAUTY & HEALTH

TRUTH BY NATURE

384 Tramway Rd

Christmas Creek, Qld,4285

Phone 0408 644 153

www.truthbynautre.com.au

AMAZING REDOX

Contact: Bruce Currington

Phone 0429 023 303

www.brucecurrington.myasealive.com

AMAZING OILS

3/9 Charleston Place

Kuluin, Qld, 4558 Phone 1800 339 169

www.amazingoils.com.au

EDUCATION AND RECRUITMENT

DOVE RECRUITMENT

Cottontree Pde, 37 The Esplande Maroochydore, Qld, 4558 Phone 1300 110 444 www.doverecruitment.com.au

STEPS

15 Evans St Maroochydore, 4558 Phone 1800 312 742 www.stepsgroup.com.au

KATE LANGFORD CAREER CONSULTING

Box 9 Regatta Corporate Building 2 Innovation Pkwy Birtinya, Qld, 4575 Phone 5322 4086 www.katelangford.com.au

FINANCIAL

GARDEN FINANCIAL SERVICES

1/5 Oval Avenue

Caloundra, Qld, 4551

Phone 5437 2744

www.gardenfs.com.au

SAGE CARE ADVICE

Suite 8, M1 Building 1-7 Duporth Ave

Maroochydore, Qld, 4558

Phone 07 5322 5333

www.sagecareadvice.com.au

POOLE AND PARTNERS INVESTMENT SERVICES Unit 1/33 Sixth Avenue

Maroochydore, Qld, 4558

Phone 07 5450 9898

Q SUPER Ground Floor, Main Hospital Building 6 Doherty St, Birtinya, Qld, 4575

Phone 1300 360 750

VIRTUOUS PLANNING

Phone 0438 142 090

Phone 07 5494 5667

HEALTH AIDS

REVITALIFE

30 Manufacturer Drive

Molendinar, Qld, 4214

Phone 1800 616 061 www.revitalife.com.au

SCOOTERS AND MOBILITY

4/2 Main Drive

Warana, Qld, 4575

Phone 5493 8455 www.scootersandmobility.com.au

NIAGARA

Southlink Estate, 29 Resource St

Parkinson, Qld, 4115

Phone 1800 601 121 www.niagara.com.au

LEEF

Shop 25b Home Care Centre 100 Maroochydore Rd

Maroochydore, Qld, 4558

Phone 5370 8774 www.leef.com.au

ADJUSTA MATTRESS

9/10 Enterprise St

Molendinar, Qld, 4214 Phone 1300 223 587 www.adjustamattress.com.au

LAKESIDE MOBILITY

2/1 Metier Link Way

Birtinya, Qld, 4575 Phone 07 5325 1231 www.lakesidemobility.com.au

HEALTH SERVICES

FULL CIRCLE WELLNESS

5/138 -140 Point Cartwright Dr

Buddina, Qld, 4575 Phone 5456 1599 www.fullcirclewellness.com.au

HEARING SERVICES

BLOOM

HOME MAINTENACE

MAROOCHY HOME CARE ASSIST

103 Enterprise St

Kunda Park, Qld, 4556

Phone 5476 6130

www.maroochyhomeassist.com.au

INSURANCE

WESTFUND

6-8 Plaza Parade

Maroochydore, Qld, 4558

Phone 1300 937 838 www.westfund.com.au

APIA

26 Duporth avenue

Maroochydore, Qld, 4558

Phone 13 50 50 www.apia.com.au

LEGAL

McCOLM MATSINGER LAWYERS

Level 4/57 The Esplande

Maroochydore, Qld, 4558

Phone 07 5443 1800

www.mccolmmatsingerlawyers.com.au

TURNER FREEMAN LAWYERS

Suite 2/148 Horton Parade

Maroochydore, Qld, 4558

Phone 07 5458 9500

www.turnerfreeman.com.au

MEDIA

MCQUEEN CREATIVE STUDIOS ( LIFE FILMS)

Phone 0428 393 480

MEAL SUPPORT

TOP NOSH MEALS

Shop 14/21 Peachester Rd

Beewah, Qld, 4519

Phone 07 5494 0113

www.topnoshmeals.com.au

PERSONAL ALARM

QUOLL DIGITAL MEDICAL

2/11 Leanne Cres

Lawnton, Qld, 4501 Phone 1300 727 906

www.quollmedical.com.au

REAL ESTATE

CENTURY 21

92 Duporth Ave

Maroochydore, Qld, 4558

Phone 07 5443 5700

www.c21onduporth.com.au

RETIREMENT /AGED CARE

SUPPORT

NEW STAFF SOLUTIONS

Phone 0423 169 583

www.newstaff.com.au

SUPPORT AND COUNSELLING

RELATIONSHIPS AUSTRALIA

27 Evans St

Maroochydore, Qld, 4558 Phone 1300 364 277

www.raq.org.au

INTIMACY WHISPERER

Phone 0411 701 594

www.paulineryeland.com

PUBLIC TRUSTEES

3/20 Innovation Parkway

Birtinya, Qld, 4575

Phone 1300 360 044

www.pt.qld.gov.au

ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT RETIREES

Contact Margaret Mourik

Phone 0478 479 049

www.independentretirees.com.au

CALOUNDRA FAMILY HISTORY RESEARCH

Sunshine Coast Turf Club

Precinct Gate, Pierce Ave

Meridian Plains, Qld, 4551

Phone 0450 297 939

www.caloundrafamilyhistory.org.au

AGED AND DISABILITY ADVOCATES

Phone 1800 818 338

www.adaaustralia.com.au

TRANSPORT

CARERS THAT DRIVE

Phone 0403 057 051

www.carersthatdrive.com.au

TRAVEL

AQUA DUCK SUNSHINE COAST

Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba, Qld, 4557

www.aquaduck.com.au

DOWN UNDER TOURS

Cnr Tooley St & Normanby St

Maryborough, Qld, 4650

www.downundercoachtours.com.au

SUNCITY TRAVEL

2/6 First Avenue

Caloundra, Qld, 4551

Phone 07 5302 4188

www.suncitytravel.com.au

EMERGENCY DIRECTORY

Preparing for an emergency

The worst thing is to be caught off guard when an emergency occurs. Preparing for a natural disaster isn’t as onerous as it may seem. There are 4 simple steps to get you underway.

Emergency Plan

Prior planning is the key. It’s as simple as knowing the risks to you and how you may need to respond in an emergency event to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Put together an emergency plan that contains all your important information to save you time and give you some peace of mind in case the unthinkable happens. Make sure your loved ones know where this is kept. Prepare to be without any assistance for at least three days.

Emergency Plan Check List

Ensure your plan includes the following information for yourself and your loved ones:

Household members contact details

Utility providers contact details

Local council/Emergency services details

Local GP or specialists contacts details

Medical history/list of medications

Hospital’s contacts details

If you have a pet, your veterinary practice details

Get Connected

Identify a support network to help you in emergency situations. This might include family, friends, neighbours, community and carer groups, professionals or volunteers. The most resilient communities are those that are able to support each other in times of need. If you are part of a retirement community or receive support from a care provider, they should be considered a part of your emergency plan.

Friends and neighbours contact details if they are part of your emergency plan

Evacuation routes

Meeting places – where you will shelter in your home or if you must evacuate, where you will go Your out-of-town contacts and place you will stay if you have to evacuate

Put together an emergency plan that contains all your important information to save you time and give you some peace of mind.

Get Organised

In your emergency plan, document your households’ specific needs. This may include any day to day routines like mealtimes, activities, sleeping and care needs (e.g. needs assistance to shower or going to the toilet.) Your plan should detail any particulars of your household that would help others to help you (e.g. language spoken at home, cultural support needs, dietary requirements hearing and communication and mobility needs.)

Consider what durable equipment you or your loved one might need. This includes therapeutic oxygen equipment, walkers, rollators, CPAP devices, specialised cushions to prevent skin breakdown and any other portable DME needed to maintain one’s health. Emergency centres will not have these readily available. If your loved one has dementia, get an identity bracelet with their name, address and telephone number. If you or your loved one has limited mobility or is bedbound, make a detailed plan of how to get around and/or evacuate. You may like to consider a manual wheelchair as backup.

Get Packing

Finally, put together an emergency kit. Your kit should be kept in a sturdy, easy-to-carry bag or waterproof storage box and stored in a safe place that is easy to access. Include in this kit your emergency plan and important information from steps 1 to 3. Your kit should be ready to go with everything you need. Have in your kit a list of perishable items you can quickly grab and add to the kit if needed. Don’t forget to update the kits contents including your emergency plan details whenever your circumstances change.

Neighbourly help when disaster strikes

Knowing your neighbours can really help when your local area experiences flooding, storm damage, bushfires or any other type of emergency or disaster.

The Sunshine Coast Council aims to help connect people with their neighbours to improve community resilience to disaster and emergency events. Shared local knowledge and skills between groups of people is beneficial in helping to get issues sorted faster and easier. If our senior residents and Aged Care facilities are able to prepare and respond quickly themselves during and post an event, our region will be in good stead to recover quickly. Connect with your neighbours. Share how you can help each other during an emergency or disaster.

How to connect with your neighbours:

• Find one or two neighbours and plan a gathering for your neighbourhood, such as a barbecue, garden tour or a pet parade.

• Welcome a new neighbour when they move in. You may like to provide homemade treats or menus to your favourite takeaway places.

• Work on a community project with your neighbours.

Visit council’s website and search ‘At Home in My Neighbourhood’ for more tips and to download a toolkit to help plan your neighbourhood gatherings and projects.

www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

Disaster Hub©

Sunshine Coast Council’s Disaster Hub website has all the information you need to be prepared and stay up-todate with important information when severe weather and disaster events occur.

disaster.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

See the next page for your Emergency Kit Checklist.

Emergency Kit Checklist

Emergency Kit Checklist

Copy of household Emergency Plan

First Aid Kit, sunscreen, insect repellent

Extra essential medicines and repeat prescriptions

Extra toiletry and sanitary supplies

Flashlight/torch with extra batteries

Battery powered radio with extra batteries

Mobile phone, spare battery and charger

Multiple changes of clothes for all household members, stored in watertight plastic bags (long pants, long sleeved shirts, hats and strong shoes are recommended)

If you have a pet – pet food, water and other animal needs

Valuables, photos (prints, CDs, USB data stick) and mementos in waterproof plastic bags

Extra money as cash

Extra batteries for hearing aids or other medical equipment

Extra pair of glasses or other necessary visual aids

Bank account and credit card details

Keep original or certified copies of these documents in your Emergency Kit. Scan copies of them and save the files on a USB memory stick or CD to include in your kit. Keep all these items in sealed plastic bags:

Insurance papers for house and contents

Insurance papers for vehicles and valuable items

Inventory of valuable household goods

Wills (or state its location for example: Is your Will kept with your Solicitor? Keep a record of their name and contact details.)

Health directives

Life insurance documents

If you have planned your funeral arrangements, include it in your emergency kit

House deeds/mortgage documents

Birth and marriage certificates

Passports/visa details

Copies of Medicare and pension cards

Immunisation records

Disaster Hub disaster.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

More information and checklists on being prepared for natural disasters and emergency events can be found at www.getready.qld.gov.au or from the Australian Red Cross REDiPlan www.redcross.org.au/prepare. Also check out the Sunshine Coast Council’s award-winning SCC app.

Important Contact Numbers

COMPLAINT RESOLUTION

Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC)

Free service for anyone to raise concerns about the quality of care or service being delivered to people receiving services subsidised by the Australian Government.

1800 951 822

Association of Residents of Queensland Retirement Villages (ARQRV)

This service protects the rights and interests of residents in Queensland retirement villages. They advocate for residents living in freehold, leasehold or loan/licence units.

0429 098 417

Australian Competition & Consumer Protection (ACCC) Ensures that individuals and businesses comply with Australiancompetition, fair trading and consumer protection laws.

1300 302 502

Airline Customer Advocate (ACA)

Free service to facilitate the resolution of current unresolved complaints about airline services.

1800 813 129

RYAN’S RULE CLINICAL REVIEW

Request this service when you feel that you or your loved one’s health condition is getting worse and you feel you are not being heard. Take this step only after you have spoken to your nurse/doctor, the nurse in charge of the shift or doctor on duty. If your concerns are still not resolved then call 13Health or 13 432 584 and request the review.

13 432 584