Your Time Brisbane July 2023

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Rat the top of the list of things that I have to do before I die, probably because I am one of those fortunate people who love their job.

Which is just as well. As Mark Twain famously said, "find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”

Added to that is that I have a very low boredom threshold. Unless mind and body is busy, I'm going stir crazy.

I once interviewed a chap who said his goal in life was to retire at 50. "What will you do then?" I asked.

He planned to spend his days fishing, and was a little miffed when I replied, "that sounds horrendously boring to me. If you go fishing every

day then it becomes just another job."

Squirelling away dollars for the purpose of spending years in retirement isn't for me. I'd rather do a day's work (that's not work).

Jo Bourke, our amazing book reviewer, is in her 80s and is still busy working behind her computer screen and would be lost if it were otherwise.

Each to his/her own, I guess.

This month Deb Terranova investigates the reality of retirement and how it matches up with the dreams and aspirations of our youth, when it all seemed so far away.

And speaking of work, this month is a big one here at Your Time. This edition is No. 100. We are centenarians and what a wonderful ride it has been since the first edition appeared in April 2015. Apart from a break early last year, I have enjoyed putting together every single one of those editions.

And as we said at the beginning, we are the same people still writing for the same audience that has been reading our work since the 1970s.

Thank you for being part of our journey and may it continue for a long time yet.

Dorothy Whittington Editor

Contents

Dream on – the reality of retirement

For decades we dreamed of the good life that would be ours once we retired. DEBBIE TERRANOVA explores the reality of retirement and discusses how it matches up with the dreams.

prohibit older pilots from operating in most airspaces outside Australia.

That said, attempts by companies to terminate a person’s employment solely because of age can be challenged in court. In 2021, an airline captain of 32 years, who was dismissed by Qantas just before his 65th birthday, won his case and kept his job.

Legalities aside, the decision to retire (or not) remains a personal one.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), 55 per cent of Australians over 55 are retired. In round figures, 3.9 million older Australians have left the workforce and half a million more intend to exit within the next five years.

About 3.4 million older people continue to work in some capacity, be it full-time, part-time, or casual. The average age that existing retirees left the workforce was 55.4 years. The average age that current older workers expect to retire is 65.5 years.

The decision to retire is influenced by a variety of factors. As a former human resources professional in a large organisation, I had regular conversations with workers on the cusp of retirement.

commissioning a new computer system can trigger an exodus of mature-age employees.

According to an ABS survey on retirement and retirement intentions, the top three reasons for retiring are:

• reached the eligibility age to receive retirement benefits (46 per cent)

• sickness, injury or disability (21 per cent)

• retrenched, dismissed or no work available (11 per cent).

Women are four times more likely than men to have left their last job to care for a person who is ill, disabled or elderly.

Now aged in their 60s and 70s, most of the Baby Boomer generation have either stopped full-time work or are about to do so. With newfound freedom, most retirees plan to pursue their passion, be it exploring the world, restoring furniture, hobby-farming, or writing that novel.

But does the reality match the dream?

Google-search “retirement expectations” and you’ll find most results relate to money – superannuation, investments, pension incomes, retirement villages.

Remember our frantic 40s, when we craved to get out, go away, do something different? But the demands of work and family, study, and finances, running the household and feeding the dog meant that we simply had to run faster.

Retirement promised the freedom to do whatever we wanted, whenever we wanted. It was the distant Nirvana we thought we’d never reach.

Retirement age is hard to define.

For some it is 60, when superannuation payments can be accessed tax-free. Generally, those with little or no super hang on until 67, when they become eligible for the age pension.

Some occupations have a mandatory age for retirement. For example, commercial pilots who fly long-haul routes are required to retire at 65. That is because international civil aviation rules

Of foremost concern was whether they would have sufficient income to support a comfortable, fulfilling lifestyle. As one retired colleague put it, “when you don’t go to work, everything you do (to amuse yourself) costs money”.

Some have little choice in the matter. The catalyst could be the onset of a serious health condition, having to care for a loved one, workplace change, or a restructure that results in job losses.

Redundancies are notoriously targeted at older workers. Even

While finances are important and necessary, giving up your job and all that you’ve worked for is not easy.

YouTube has a multitude of videos made by retirees about their post-work experiences.

Worth a look is youtube.com/@

ThisIsOurRetirement by Canadian couple, Tina and Norm, who are crazy about travel.

While many of their talks are about their adventures, they also tackle retirement myths and warn about natural slowing-down and declining

health as we age. Their advice is to see the bucket-list places while fit enough to do so.

One aspect of pre-retirement planning that warrants consideration is the age of your spouse or partner.

If you are 60 and they are 10 years younger, retiring to caravan around Australia is neither fair nor reasonable. But here’s the kicker. If you delay for 10 years, your health at 70 may preclude active travel.

Unless you come to a compromise or make alternative plans, you may never get to see Kakadu or drive the Nullarbor. The window of opportunity might be smaller than you think.

Sociologist and author of The Reality of Retirement, Lyndsay Green, has studied how men perceive work and retirement (The Reality of RetirementYouTube).

Based on in-depth interviews, she concludes that the identities of Boomer men are inextricably bound up in their occupation or their employer. What they do defines who they are.

She makes a valid point, and not just for men. Increasingly, women devote their entire adult lives to an occupation or career. When a person retires, their well-rehearsed role evaporates and, with it, their sense of self.

For a while, the losses might outweigh the gains.

Lost is the social aspect of work: the comfortable companionship, the lunchroom chit-chat, the satisfaction of pulling together as a team. People who work tend to stick with others who work.

On retirement, workplace friendships are left behind. How do you deal with social isolation and prevent loneliness?

Lost is the intellectual challenge of the job. At work, employees are valued for their ability to get things done, solve problems, contribute to collective knowledge in their field. In retirement,

how do you continue to learn and grow?

How do you keep in touch with an everchanging world?

Lost is the structure of day-to-day living. People who work have a routine. They set the alarm for same time each morning. They have breakfast, shower, dress, commute to work. For the next eight hours or so, they perform tasks, talk to customers, meet deadlines. Breaks for smoko and lunch are factored in. Back home, they have dinner, do chores, relax, sleep.

Retirement has no imposed timeframes. How do you distinguish one day from the next? How do you achieve anything at all?

Green refers to “retired husband syndrome” as a cause of conflict in relationships. After a lifetime devoted to work, both partners are suddenly thrown together with nothing in particular to do.

They are together full-time, every single day and night. In a traditional domestic arrangement, the indoors is the woman’s domain. She knows where

things are kept, her housekeeping is finely-tuned and efficient.

Now that the kids have left home, she’s the queen of the roost. Enter a freshly-retired husband. Whenever he tries to help, he gets in her way. Their interests diverge, clash even. With little in common, conversations are strained.

To avoid the three destructive Ds of retirement – depression, divorce, drink – and to maintain their relationship, couples must renegotiate their individual roles and even their living space.

In early retirement, my husband and I often frustrated each other. While we wanted to be together, our different interests got in the way. After a long discussion, we decided to do our own thing on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. No questions asked.

While Sam pored over the stock market and caught up with friends, I wrote stories. We had our own offices, out of earshot, so that we could talk or think without interruption.

At five o’clock, we’d finish “work” and

spend the evenings together. For us, the period between work and not-work was a time of flux.

According to William Bridges’ model of change, were stuck in the neutral zone, the nebulous uncomfortable space between an ending and a new beginning. Our neutral zone was fraught with teething problems, all of which were solvable because we were prepared to negotiate and make it work for us.

These days, pre-retirement options have expanded, thanks in part to COVID-19. Technology allows people to work successfully from home; the attitude of bosses has changed. People nearing retirement can work shorter hours, or step down from high-pressure roles, or give back to their profession by mentoring younger workers.

These are all positive ways of improving the work-retirement transition.

Six years on, we have settled into the rhythm of active retirement. We travel abroad and within Australia. At home, we’ve rekindled old friendships and taken up new hobbies. But this stage will not last either. Diseases of ageing are just around the corner.

We’re not there yet, but some of our friends are. The clock is ticking; no-one is immune. And some day in the future we will face the ultimate transition.

But I am pleased to say that withdrawing from the workforce does not mean withdrawing from life. Retiring is not defeat, but a second chance to discover your true self and to do the things you’ve dreamt about.

Retirement is the gift of time, so take a chance, grab the opportunity while it’s there.

Carpe diem. Seize the day, for we know not what tomorrow will bring.

Debbie Terranova is a Brisbane author and researcher. Visit terranovapublications.com

Men in particular have their identity bound up in their joband may experience a sense of loss.

Bedroom:

dressing table with a main mirror and 2 side mirrors, kidney shaped dressing table with curtains, quilted nylon bedspread.

Dining:

Distasteful: Brains, rabbit, lamb’s fry, chokoes, chicken giblets, liver and bacon, turnips Favourite: Junket, pineapple or lemon sago, tapioca, stewed rhubarb, stewed prunes, instant puddings, Spanish cream, jelly, lemon delicious.

Christmas:

Roast chicken, 3d or 6d in Christmas pudding, cracking nuts, lining up at the phone to speak to interstate relatives.

Celebrating 100 editions!

Your Time has hit a century – that’s 100 months since the first edition appeared in April 2015.

When we began, we promised to share the news relevant to a generation – the Baby Boomers and their parents. During the past eight years, we have brought you the news that affects and interests those of us who still enjoy the simple pleasure of holding a magazine.

We survived the lean years of the

pandemic and have consistently brought you the big issues to inform and entertain.

We have covered the controversial and defended the generation. “OK Boomer” may have become a popular catchphrase but as we point out, we have a proud legacy. We were among the first protesters, the environmental warriors, and although our grandchildren might want to give us a

pat on the head, they would do well to remember that we were the first to use computers. We successfully made the transition from typewriters to the digital age.

We have explained the big decisions facing our generation – reverse mortgages, the Baby Boomer bankers whose kids are chipping at their nest egg, the work involved in getting a pension, care packages and options for retirement living and ultimately nursing homes.

And there have been the hard

Grocery shopping:

The corner store, string bags, frozen food was ice cream in cardboard box called a family brick, Dad picked up the order from the corner shop in a cardboard box, handing your list to the grocer and standing at the counter while he got everything, the grocer weighing sugar, flour, biscuits and nuts, broken biscuits sold at half price.

Expressions:

“It’s snowing down south” (petticoat showing), “Strike a light”, “wait until your father gets home”, “woe betide”, “I’m off to bash my back” (have a

subjects – elder abuse, seniors facing homelessness, the heartache of the forced adoption scheme and scammers who prey on the vulnerable.

We have explained the pros and cons of retiring offshore, the grey nomad phenomenon, the cruisers who spend their latter years on a ship, and house swaps – and how to tackle getting rid of all your “stuff” and downsizing.

We have also touched on the romantic – giving marriage another go, dating for over 55s and dispelling ageist myths about sex in your 60s.

to Gwen Shipp, Vivienne Ferguson, Jan Lever, Carmel Harris, Noel and Maxina Williams, Christine Thelander and Eloise Rowe for their memories.

There have been many walks down memory lane, nostalgic journeys to the products and trappings of daily life that have come and gone in our lifetime. Technology has changed the world since our childhood mid last century. Your Time likes to look back as we go forward.

We’ve discussed last orders and planning your send off, and how to know it’s time to hang up the car keys. We’ve pointed out that you can in fact teach old dogs new tricks and that’s why many are signing up for U3A and Citizen Science.

There’s the role of grandparents, in some cases recycled parents; volunteering beyond the op shops; the baby boozers who enjoy a tipple; the joys and pitfalls of a granny flat arrangement; pursuing a new career after 55 and old rockers and surfers who are still doing their thing.

We’ve introduced you to ordinary people of our generation who have done and are still doing, extraordinary things.

Our columnists have kept you informed about the topics that affect health, wealth and lifestyle in our senior years and entertained with their view of issues that touch all of us.

So, a big “thank you” to our readers who have responded so strongly to what we offer and to our loyal advertisers who make it all possible.

Thanks also to our many contributors, our salespeople Michelle Austin and Sarah Hillman, the talented production and creative teams, and those who make it all possible behind the scenes in accounts and distribution.

We look forward to you joining us for the next 100 editions.

by Mocco Wollert

dog, the cat, our spouses (please note the pecking order) by stroking them lightly and gently to calm them or to make things better, not realising that we actually administer a gentle massage. This works wonders with babies and young children.

There are many types of massages – relaxing, remedial, stimulating and darn right painful ones.

There is Kahuna and lymphomatic massage; the latter can be rather painful. Foolishly I had one on the beach in Penang which left me totally exhausted, every muscle tender to the touch.

She replied, “oh, that is simple. In that case I just dig my elbow suddenly and strongly into his side and bingo, “the what” collapses like a deflated balloon. Of course, I knew it, there would be solution to that problem.

I am convinced that if the health funds of this country would give big rebates on an ongoing basis for natural treatments such as acupuncture, chiropractic and massage, they would likely save hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical costs for specialists and surgery.

by Cheryl Lockwood

MASSAGE is a very old craft used to ease and to heal. Maybe in its earliest form it was the “laying-on of hands” to relieve pain, anxiety and drive out bad spirits.

However, healers were often taken for charlatans pretending to be in communication with another world. In the Middle Ages, healers were often persecuted because people did not understand their craft and thought the healing came from the devil.

Another form of massage used every day is touching and soothing.

We massage our small children, the

Algester Lodge offer Residential Care & Respite Care

The massage therapists don’t take any notice of your discomfort and say things like breathe through it or pump blood to it. I have gone to a massage therapist for many years, who has unknotted most of my muscles, the ones that were hurting and the ones I did not even know I had.

At times, alas, all this breathing and pumping blood business did not work and I had to occasionally hit his hand gently to make him stop. He did not mind, just grinned and carried on but more softly.

A female massage therapist, a friend of mine, often had male clients – no, hers was NOT that sort of massage, she was a serious heath professional.

I was curious. “Tell me.” I asked her one day. “What happens if one of your male clients becomes you know what?”

While natural healers, therapists and naturopaths are now generally accepted, there is still that small aura of hanky-panky, of “guessing” even though the therapists have studied for many years.

How many times have I heard someone say when I recommended a massage, “oh that doesn’t do much good. I would not let him touch my body!”

And yet it is accepted that massage is an absolute necessity for athletes.

As we get older and our bodies change, not for the better, let me tell you, massage can keep our muscles supple, to help avoid falls and broken hips.

May you find gentle hands to ease your aches and pains.

Email mocco.wollert@bigpond.com

WHEN another wedding anniversary rolls around someone generally asks, “how did you meet?”

I think that some couples are meant to cross paths and there are many who probably wish they hadn’t. As for me, I was living in my small, country town and had decided to move to the bright lights of the city.

After settling into a new job, I went flat-hunting. My sister came with me and we spent our morning looking at potential homes. We toured a nice two-bedroom place and as we looked out the back door to the little backyard, a rather handsome man stepped out of the unit next door.

I immediately turned to my sister and said, “I’ll take it!”

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50 years

In reality, I had seen a unit I preferred earlier but by the time I returned, it had been rented to someone else.

Mildly disappointed, I signed a lease for the first one. Within a week, I had met the handsome man from next door and within a year, we were engaged.

Officially, we met under the clothesline, as I hung out my washing. Years later, our children amused themselves by recreating our meeting.

Their performances were ad-libbed and contained lines like, “hi. Nice undies!” I don’t recall either of us saying that. I will admit though, to purposely checking my letterbox at the same time he arrived home from work.

In an eerily similar circumstance, our daughter met the boy across the road while housesitting for us. It was a house we nearly did not buy but our first offer was not accepted and we decided to look elsewhere. A few weeks later, the owner wanted to negotiate further and we ended up buying it.

My son met his wife on safari in Africa. Neither of them intended on being on that particular tour, with my son almost missing out as the truck was full. The opportunity to join the tour later came up and he decided to go. He got to share a tent with his future wife and as she says, “we’ve lived together ever since.”

The other thing people often want to know is the details of the all-important

proposal. Spoiler alert! He didn’t exactly sweep me off my feet with a lavish and romantic proposal. We had been sitting on his single bed in his sparsely furnished bachelor pad chatting about all things deep and meaningful, when he popped the question. We then noticed that it was past midnight and was actually Valentine’s Day. Totally unplanned, but it’s now easy to remember the date.

Our children put in a bit more thought. The son-in-law presented a ring to unsuspecting daughter on a canoe trip in Lawn Hill National Park. He’d secretly asked hubby’s permission before they left, which was sweet and rather traditional.

The son arranged the letters on a Scrabble board to ask, “will you marry me?” in a library in Sweden. The librarian, noticing the event and happy tears, was so excited she presented them with a framed photograph from an art display as a gift.

These days, wedding proposals have become big business. Websites list hundreds of ideas to impress the person of your dreams and some venues offer proposal packages. With all that effort and cost, you’d want to hope the answer is yes.

I don’t want to be the proposal grinch, but maybe some of that effort should go into the marriage that follows. Hubby and I have just celebrated our 35th anniversary. To him I say, thanks for sharing the ups and downs, and for the love and laughter.

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Expo 88 transforms the South Bank

The South Bank of the Brisbane River has seen many changes, but nothing as dramatic as an event exactly 35 years ago. LYNDA SCOTT visits the site of Expo 88.

The area had been a traditional meeting place for Aboriginals, an important site for early white settlement, and almost became Brisbane’s CBD until the 1893 flood sent businesses fleeing to higher ground on the north shore.

But post-World War II, the mostly industrial and port area had fallen into decline.

The inspired move to host Expo 88 on the rundown 42ha site turned Brisbane from a big country town to a world class city.

The Royal Historical Society of Queensland archive holds a series of photos showing the remarkable transformation.

One photo captured just as the bulldozers were about to move in, shows View World hotel, once one of the roughest South Brisbane dockside pubs.

It began life in the 1890s and quickly gained notoriety for selling watereddown alcohol, illegal trading hours, and being the scene of many drunken brawls.

The pub had several name changes and was known as the Kings Hotel when two Irish sisters took over in 1907.

The word King was offensive to the

Irishwomen, so they renamed it the Atlas hotel, and kept the wharfies in check for over 40 years until their death.

In the 1950s it traded as the View World until its demolition in 1986 to make way for Expo, near the site where the Wheel of Brisbane now sits.

The other landmark standing in the way of progress was printers Watson & Ferguson, built in 1910.

The company was one of Brisbane’s oldest, trading in Queen Street from the 1870s, as well-known printers of stationery and novelty items and maps

When they expanded to the Stanley St site, the company’s website says more than 200 printers were employed, and it was regarded as the training ground for master printers in Queensland.

At the start of World War I, the Defence Department took over the building, but then printing resumed until 1985 when the Expo Authority took over the land.

With much of South Brisbane’s history cleared away, Expo was ready to take off.

For six months from April to October

1988, 18 million visitors toured 100 pavilions from all over the world and enjoyed non-stop entertainment. Brisbane had seen nothing like it, and no-one wanted the party to end.

But Expo was dismantled, and over the next four years the master plan for South Bank parkland evolved.

Today the former Expo site is a vibrant place for both locals and visitors to visit.

It has weathered floods and facelifts and is scheduled to have another revamp with the final plan to be released later this year.

Lynda Scott is a volunteer at the Royal Historical Society of Queensland. Visit queenslandhistory.org

Stanley St from Victoria Bridge. The 1910 Watson and Ferguson building had to go.

The ViewWorld Hotel, demolished in 1986.

Pioneering publican had the pluck of the

Irish Women weren’t permitted to drink in public bars before 1970 but that didn’t stop them running hotels.

signs to warn the presence of a policeman. A certain knock was necessary to gain access.

Mrs Keogh denied the charge, saying, “What could anybody do after hours on four-penny beers?”

She won the case when it was revealed that William Austin, who had bought the hotel from her, wanted to get out of the deal because he was in a bit of a financial muddle.

She also had to deal with a blaze at the King and King’s Warehouse in the city in December 1923. A housemaid at her Sovereign Hotel alerted the fire brigade. Guests fled but water from the fire hoses caused extensive damage.

Mary remarried in 1929, and died aged 56 in December 1931, at home at the Racecourse Hotel in Booval. After a service at St Stephen’s Cathedral, she was buried near Daniel at Nudgee.

Harold

Dean said the prestige of womanhood was too high, too valuable and too precious to be destroyed by a vulgarism.

“I don’t think it’s a place for a woman to be,” he said.

Try telling that to the women who, from the late 19th century, were describing themselves as “hotel proprietress” or “licensed victualler”.

They provided meals, beds and refreshments for weary Cobb and Co travellers, and hospitality for visitors from the city to the far north and the outback. Some took over the hotel licence when their husband died, others recognised a business opportunity.

The genial and warm-hearted Mary Keogh, a devout Catholic, became a formidable presence in Brisbane.

Born in County Cavan in 1875, Mary Kathleen Harten came to Brisbane with her parents as a three-year-old. She married Daniel Keogh 1893, and they lived in Brisbane before getting into the hotel business in Maryborough.

When Daniel died aged just 46, in 1915, Mary took over the licence. She

EATING MADE EASY

moved to Brisbane where she had the Hotel Victory in Edward St and the Sovereign Hotel in Elizabeth St.

In 1925, she took over the Grand Hotel at the corner of Mary and Margaret Streets, opposite the Australasian United Steam Navigation Company wharf.

“Mrs Keogh, in all cases, made her influence felt by the attention and consideration she at all times extended to her guests and bar customers,” it was reported. “As a female licensee she has no rivals in the trade. In the management of a hotel clean, comfortable, and intensely respectable establishment, she is at home.”

She was also a member of the Catholic Seamen’s Club ladies’ committee and the Nudgee Orphans’ Outing Committee as well as a willing charity worker.

It wasn’t always clear sailing though. In 1924 she was involved in what was described as “a sensational case” when it was alleged she had been conducting illicit trading on Sundays.

The court heard that a constant flow of people streamed into the hotel after hours, and that a system was employed to avoid detection in front of the hotel.

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The Victory Hotel in Edward St, first called the Prince of Wales, was renamed in 1921 after World War I. Built in 1855, it is the oldest surviving hotel in Brisbane’s CBD.

During debate on lifting the prohibition, Sandgate MP

ALLISON WHITE tells the story of Mary Keogh.

Bouncing forward into a new era of life, 73-year-old retiree GARRY REYNOLDS shares his thoughts on the challenges facing men of a certain age.

I WAS recently reading an article about men over 50 and thought, “that’s me.”

When I read on, I wasn’t so sure. While accurate about the physical and social challenges facing ageing men, I found it all a bit negative.

I see senior-hood as an opportunity to have another go at life with plenty of experience and hard-won knowledge.

My aim is to remain an active, contributing member of society. It’s not all hard work. I’m trying to push the envelope on my recovery program after three strokes two years ago, in fun social ways like becoming a member of Probus.

I’ve commenced a digital photography course, joined a singing group and also an aerobics class for seniors to accelerate my rehab.

We dance like nobody’s watching and sing like nobody’s listening.

It was initially confronting being the only male, but I’ve defied expectations and returned regularly. The girls have adopted me, and I’m exceeding my target of 5000 steps a day.

Keeping the mind active is important and just as much fun.

Men’s mental health expert, psychologist Zac Seidler, says many men become islands in older age. Some lose a sense of purpose and direction and can feel surplus.

The average life span of Australian men is 81 but it shocked me to find that in 2021, men over the age of 85 had the highest age-specific rate of suicide in Australia.

“Men’s social connections degrade after the age of 50. Many of their friendships have been transactional – based on work, earlier sporting connections – and so aren’t deep in nature,” says Seidler.

Women’s social networks tend to last longer as they make a determined effort to create and maintain friendships.

Unfortunately, some senior men may not be close to their children after concentrating on providing for them rather than spending time with them.

To get things into perspective regarding the effects of testosterone on men’s health, a survey of 81 Korean eunuchs found they lived up to 19 years longer than uncastrated men. I don’t sense any movement at Men’s Sheds to go down that path.

In a spirit of optimism, older men are increasingly using social media to get off their island and meet people. A lot of these new people will be retired, but not retiring, mature women.

NOSE KNOWS A SIGNATURE SCENT

A WOMAN’S choice of perfume says a lot about her.

Classic parfumiers know there is a clear link between her signature scent, enduring emotions, and fond memories.

When Marilyn Monroe was asked, “what do you wear to bed?” her response was “just a few drops of No. 5” a quote which became almost as famous as Chanel.

Perfumes have a personality often linked to high fashion couturiers and glamorous celebrities. It is an expensive business with sales in Australia trending to more than $1 billion

this year. The nose can distinguish at least a trillion different smells, so a signature scent can be determined by the science of how well attuned a person’s sensory neurons are in distinguishing the perfume and its volatility. As parfumiers combine their flair with this science, a woman matches her persona with how the perfume reacts with her skin. Personal stylists recommend keeping the perfume cool before warming up the skin at a pulse point. Apply moisturiser to allow a subtle spray of fragrance to settle on the skin and work its magic.

MUSHROOMS ARE, WELL, MUSHROOMING

MUSHROOMS are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to meat in meals on Australian’s dinner tables in a reaction to the rising cost of living and addressing climate change.

According to the ABC’s Fiona Broom, the fungi could also have health benefits for people living with high cholesterol or the risk of dementia.

Surprisingly, with more Australians facing a Vitamin D deficiency, mushrooms can absorb vitamin D if placed in the sun for only 10 minutes, making them one of the few foods that naturally contain the vitamin. Matching their increasing popularity is the ability of people to grow their own mushrooms or purchase increasing varieties to liven up traditional menus with nutritional benefits.

There are 50 Australian producers supplying 70,000 tonnes a year.

Looking

Become a ‘Suncarer’

Promise of new medications yet to be tested

There has been excitement – in some circles – about the recent development of medications that may treat Alzheimer’s Disease. KAILAS

cautions that while it could be cause for celebration, it also could be giving false hope.

Dementia affects about half a million people in this country and the numbers are set to increase two to three-fold in the next few decades.

About two-thirds of dementia cases are due to Alzheimer’s Disease and so the personal and societal repercussions of a cure would be huge.

It is worth noting that until these medications came on the scene there had been no treatment proven to treat the condition, despite many decades of research. We do have medications that treat the symptoms, but not the underlying disease.

So, what do we know about these medications?

Well, they are all from the same class – that is, the way in which in which they work is fundamentally the same. They are known as monoclonal antibodies and are proteins which have been artificially created to act like antibodies in our body (and brain).

The role of antibodies is to neutralise foreign substances and in so doing, prevent the harm that these substances might cause.

The monoclonal antibodies that have

been in the spotlight recently for Alzheimer’s Disease target amyloid, the accumulation of which in the brain is thought by many to be responsible for the symptoms of the condition.

There is controversy about this (isn’t there always!) but that’s a story for another day.

The antibodies “recognise” amyloid as a foreign substance, bind to it and clear it from the brain. This should be a good thing – less amyloid should mean less damage to the nerve cells which should mean less symptoms of memory loss and the like.

There are two of these medications available to patients in the USA already (aducanemab and lecanemab) but they are

not yet available in Australia. This may change soon.

Positively, studies do show that their use does reduce brain amyloid load. The problem is whether the clinical effects are relevant i.e., is there a meaningful improvement in day-to-day cognition and function.

Both drugs, when given over 18 months, do slow cognitive decline (by 22 per cent and 27 per cent respectively) but what this means for the someone with dementia is hard to define.

There are many that welcome the treatment option despite this uncertainty – after all, at least it is something.

There are others that are less optimistic, however. The drugs are expensive and must be given as in infusion (so not user-friendly). Also, although they slow cognitive decline, they do not stop it or reverse it: there is still overall, a downward trajectory.

Additionally, there are specific concerns that the medications may accelerate shrinkage of the brain (whether this is clinically relevant is unclear) and in some people can cause swelling and bleeding in the brain.

ROBERTS

The bleeding has been tied to at least three deaths in those treated with lecanemab.

There may be more benefit to be had from these medications if you start them earlier, and this is the subject of ongoing research.

It may also be that these early drugs are stepping stones to the development of similar agents where there is more benefit and less potential for harm.

Of course, it will always be an individual decision whether to try these medications – you may be happy to accept the potential for side effects, and your neighbour may not.

I suspect I will be having regular discussions about the pros and cons with my patients over the coming years.

Kailas Roberts is a psychogeriatrician and author of Mind your brain

The Essential Australian Guide to Dementia now available at all good bookstores and online. Visit yourbraininmind.com or uqp.com.au

The origins of the Loch Ness monster

Did you know?

If you were a baby in the middle of the 1800s and you cried while teething, your parents might have given you Mrs Winslow’s Soothing Syrup. This “medicine” claimed that “it soothes the child, it softens the gums, allays all pain”. It may have done plenty of soothing, but it was also extremely dangerous – this concoction contained morphine.

Do you remember?

The legend of the Loch Ness monster goes back nearly 1500 years. There’s a tale written in the year AD565 that speaks of an Irish monk, Saint Columba, travelling through Scotland. While there, he heard stories of a “water beast” that attacked and killed the local people when they went in the river. That river is now known in Scotland as the River Ness, which flows out from the famous Loch Ness.

Quote of the month

By the numbers.

3106 carats

The largest diamond ever found was 3106 carats.

780 Million

Nike sells 780 million pairs of shoes a year.

9500km²

By the mid-1950s, half of Australia had a television in the home. For decades starting with the earliest colour models, televisions were designed as furniture, partly to make the TV the focal point of the home. Today, televisions are bigger than they’ve ever been, but the design concept has done a 180 from the days of the so-called console TV. Instead of being a focal point, today’s giants are sleek, unassuming and built to blend in.

This month in history

1838 Charles Darwin presents a paper to the Linnean Society on his theory of the evolution of species and natural selection.

1937 Amelia Earhart goes missing

1946 The bikini, a daring 2-piece swimming costume, is introduced at a swimming pool in Paris.

1969 The Eagle lands on the moon and US astronaut Neil Armstrong takes a giant leap for mankind.

1978 Lesley Brown gives birth to the world’s first test tube baby (IVF) by caesarean section in Oldham, near Manchester, England.

1981 Prince Charles marries Lady Diana at St Paul’s Cathedral 1994 Amazon.com is founded in Seattle under the name Cadabra 2000 An Air France Concorde jet bound for New York crashes up takeoff in Paris killing everyone onboard

2005 Terrorist bombs strike London’s public transport system, killing 52 and injuring 700.

We support you to access or get the most from your aged care services, understand

charges and fees and have a say in the things that impact you.

Our service is free, and our focus is on a

– Eleanor Roosevelt

The total surface area (when full) of Lake Eyre, Australia’s largest lake.

A lifestyle streets ahead

Welcome to Halcyon Promenade

Experience sunshine, serenity and style only five minutes from the seaside of Moreton Bay. What’s not to love? At Halcyon Promenade, live in a gated community with lush parklands, leisure and lifestyle facilities at your doorstep. Choose from beautifully designed homes that cater to your lifestyle and enjoy quick access to Brisbane and surrounds.

Artist’s impression only. *All

Artist’s impression only.

How to keep your skin safe this winter

It can be easy to hang up our hats and put away the sunscreen during winter, but do we still need sun protection even during the cooler months or when the sun isn’t out? And how long can we soak up the winter sunshine before we experience skin damage?

The sun’s UV radiation is the leading cause of skin cancer, and we generally require sun protection when UV levels reach 3 or above.

But many people are surprised to learn that UV levels can remain above 3 all year round in Queensland, even in winter or on cool or cloudy days.

At this level, just 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure is enough to cause cell damage which leads to skin ageing, pigmentation and skin cancer – and you don’t need to be sunburnt to experience skin damage.

“It just takes small amounts of incremental sun – just

How to check your own skin for skin cancer

Between professional full-body skin checks, you can self-monitor your skin for any new, changing or unusual lesions.

Start by examining your body in a full-length mirror, checking all visible skin on your front and back with your arms raised. Next, look at your underarms, forearms and

What does skin cancer look like?

Seborrhoeic Keratosis

Harmless wartlike spots usually developing by the age of 60.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Most common but least dangerous form of skin cancer.

palms, then your legs, toes and the soles of your feet. Skin cancer can even grow under your toenails! As the disease can develop anywhere on the body (even in places not exposed to the sun), use a hand mirror or ask a loved one for help examining your neck, scalp, ears, back and buttocks.

being outside for a few minutes, driving your car, hanging out the washing,” says Professor David Wilkinson, Chief Medical Officer of the National Skin Cancer Centres.

He says winter is an ideal time to get your professional skin cancer check.

“It is often easier for doctors to find suspicious lesions in winter without the disguise of your summer tan, and you can usually expect shorter waiting times.”

Did you know?

Queensland has the highest skin cancer rate in the world.

One of the most effective ways to prevent serious complications from skin cancer is to learn to spot the early signs. Skin cancer can affect anyone, occur anywhere on the body and come in various shapes and colours, from unusual moles to patches of discoloured skin.

This is what some common lesions look like:

Dysplastic Naevi

Benign moles which might indicate greater melanoma risk.

Solar Keratoses

Sun damage indicating increased skin cancer risk.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A more serious form of skin cancer often on areas exposed to the sun.

Melanoma

The most dangerous form of skin cancer which must be treated urgently.

How does a skin cancer check work?

During your full-body skin cancer check (which is recommended for all Queenslanders at least once a year), your doctor will thoroughly inspect your skin and examine any moles, freckles or bumps with a dermatoscope, which is a special skin microscope that allows the doctor to see beneath the skin to identify suspicious characteristics.

The examination is completely painless. If the doctor finds a suspicious spot, they might take a photograph to be recorded and analysed, and they might take a small sample of the skin.

“Melanoma can grow very fast and may show no symptoms until the advanced stage,” says Professor Wilkinson.

“Special diagnostic tools are usually necessary to see beneath the skin’s surface to identify suspicious changes, which is why annual skin checks are important for early detection and can produce potentially life-saving results.”

Did you know?

99%

How can you protect yourself?

Protecting your skin all year round can be as simple as applying SPF50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen to exposed skin when UV levels reach 3+, sticking to the shade, and wearing a hat, long sleeves and collared shirts.

When applying sunscreen, use about seven tablespoons on the exposed skin over your entire body, remembering to cover the skin on your face, neck, arms, legs, shoulders and ears. If you aren’t wearing a hat, apply sunscreen to your scalp, too!

Reapply every two hours or more frequently if you are sweating or swimming.

“It’s important to take the appropriate steps from prevention to detection all year round,” says Professor Wilkinson.

“Early detection through regular full-body skin cancer checks is the best defence. Our mission is to detect skin cancers in the early stages to minimise complex, invasive, and expensive treatments, and ultimately save lives.”

Are you at risk of skin cancer?

You are at especially high risk if you are over 55, have light hair or lightcoloured eyes, have a fair complexion, have a family or personal history of skin cancer, work outdoors or enjoy outdoor activities, or have ever been sunburnt or used a tanning bed.

“So many patients have sun-damaged skin in Queensland, so they’re at high risk of skin cancers including potentially deadly melanoma, but unfortunately a lot of people underestimate that risk,” says Professor Wilkinson.

of skin cancers are curable if detected early.

Prime viewing at your fingertips

The days of being stuck with whatever happens to be on the TV at the time you want to watch are well and truly over. EDIN READ explains the ease and benefits of tuning into a streaming service.

There is no longer a need to record shows to view later, miss an episode of a favourite show when you’re away or having to pick up a season halfway through.

These days, it a simple case of hovering the remote over what you want to watch, when you want to watch it – streaming.

These advancements mean you can easily head out for the evening without having to worry about hitting record, and then watch it when you’re ready.

It also means you can catch up on a show your friends have recommended without being left behind, or start a new series from the beginning.

How, you ask? Easy, through online streamingw platforms.

You may have heard of Netflix, Stan and BritBox, but did you know that there are also free platforms available?

ABC iview, SBS on Demand, 7plus, 9now, and 10play all allow you to stream your favourite

FINANCE

shows for free – yep, 100 per cent free.

All you need is a steady internet/Wi-Fi connection with enough data, a smart device to view them, and to open an account with them.

These are the official services provided by the channels you know and love – ABC, SBS, Channel 7, Channel 9 and Channel 10 – so you can find most shows that are currently or have been on air recorded for you, ready to stream when you are.

Signing up is straight

forward. Generally, head to their website, press sign up, provide your details, and then verify your email with them. Then, you can watch via the TV, by downloading their app to your tablet, or online on your computer.

You don’t need to give any credit card information to them, but simply need to provide a few details such as your name, email and, in some cases, date of birth.

I know what you’re thinking – what’s the catch?

There is none. It is the beauty of streaming from legitimate

Wash away rising costs in the laundry

$372 to the annual shopping bill.

3. LAUNDRY DETERGENT PODS

No pouring or measuring makes detergent pods an appealing and convenient option, but the benefits stop there. Detergent pods are more expensive than liquid or powder, and don’t perform as well according to Choice tests.

sources. They make money the same way as Live TV, through ads although you’ll notice that there are fewer ads than on live TV – about 30 seconds rather than a few minutes.

The best bit is you can pause whenever you want and come back later.

What if your TV isn’t a Smart TV?

Most televisions are “smart” these days, meaning they can connect to the internet and download apps so you can get the most out of what you want to watch.

There are simple adapters such as the Chromecast with Google TV or Apple TV which will make your TV smart.

This saves money by using a sleek gadget to transform your TV rather than having to buy a whole new TV.

Paid streaming services are also a great way to get prime viewing. Netflix, Stan, and BritBox are highly

recommended.I have tried and tested all of the streaming services currently available (for testing purposes only, of course!) and these take the cake.

They cost around $9-16 a month and are well worth it.

Think of the cost and the late fees we used to pay at the local Blockbuster!

You can cancel any time and there is no limit to how much you stream. This means that no matter how much you watch, you’re not going to be charged more or less.

This works well because routines change. Some days you’ll watch a lot and others you’ll be too busy to watch anything at all. You won’t know yourself once you sign up and start watching!

There are more streaming recommendations in the blog section of Greyology’s website.

Edin Read is the chief technician and founder of Greyology. Visit greyology.com.au

With the cost of living continuing to rise, consumer group Choice has revealed tips to reduce laundry costs.

“The cost of keeping your clothes clean can stack up,” Reviews and Testing director Matthew Steen says. “By following our tips, you could save more than $500 just by adjusting your laundry habits”.

1. FABRIC SOFTENER

If you’re looking to save money, your first step should be ditching fabric softeners for good.

“Fabric softeners coat your clothes and towels in nicesmelling chemicals that leave a

residue on your clothes and reduce the moisture absorbency of your towels,” says Steen. “This not only can irritate sensitive skin but recoats clothes with chemicals after you’ve just cleaned them.”

If fluffy towels are important, put them in the dryer for 10 minutes.

2. LAUNDRY BEADS AND IN-WASH SCENT BOOSTERS

Laundry beads are similar to fabric softener but instead of liquid, they are small soluble beads that are added to the barrel of your washing machine. Choice experts have calculated that this product may add a whopping

4. LAUNDRY DETERGENT

Choice testing has found that using a third of the recommended amount of laundry detergent effectively cleans clothes.

“By using less detergent you’re helping the environment as well. You’ll be using less packaging and less detergent will end up in our waterways,” says Steen.

“Overdosing on detergent can also cause a “scrud” build-up in your washing machine, which over time, can decrease your washing performance.”

Visit choice.com.au/ laundrysavingtips

5 POINTS TO CONSIDER BEFORE DOWNSIZING DOWNSIZING the family home involves more than just where you want to live next.

The downsizer contribution strategy is a way to get extra money from the sale of your family home to fund your retirement lifestyle. Financial planner Luke Smith, author of Smart Money Strategy gives five key points to consider:

1. What type of property and where will you downsize to?

What type of property and where – consider proximity to family and friends, distance to essential services, availability of public transport, accessibility of lifestyle activities, the type of property (single level no stairs)

2. Check eligibility

Understand and follow the rules the government has set out for using the downsizer contribution strategy. Check eligibility requirements, including completing the right paperwork at the right time. Originally this was only open to those aged 60 or over but since January, has been lowered to 55+.

3. Make the most of contribution

options. The downsizer contribution allows an individual to make a $300,000 contribution to super and $300,000 each as a couple. With the focus on getting money into super to fund your retirement life, you may also make a non-concessional contribution of up to $330,000 (total super balance permitting).

4. Ensure the strategy is considered with Centrelink. Centrelink provides an important source of income for retirement and it makes sense to consider this strategy in the context of eligibility for that income. Money from the sale of the family home will be considered when determining entitlements. The home you downsize to becomes exempt once you have purchased it.

5. Don’t forget other ways to contribute to super.

A personal deductible contribution to super means you claim a tax deduction when you get your tax return completed. Downsizer super contributions don’t allow a tax deduction claim.

Visit thestrategystacker.com.au

Detecting the hidden signs of reflux with bulk billed & non-invasive medical imaging technique

G

astroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a common condition. Silent reflux affects approximately 40 to 50% of patients who have GORD. It is referred to as ‘silent reflux’ because it does not present with the classic symptoms of reflux such as: heartburn; lump in the throat and regurgitation. Symptoms of silent reflux range from chronic cough, recurrent sore throats, loss of voice, persistent throat clearing, chest pain, choking, wheezing and shortness of breath.

In recent years, CitiScan Radiology & Lime Radiology partnered with Professor Hans Van der Wall and introduced the Gastroesophageal Reflux Test to Brisbane and the Redcliffe Peninsula.

The first of its kind, this patented nuclear medicine imaging technique precisely identifies reflux fluid contamination throughout the head, throat, and chest. “Many patients do not present with classic symptoms of GORD but are suffering from typical upper respiratory tract symptoms such as chronic cough, dysphonia and globus. This is due to reflux fluid contaminating the maxillary sinuses, throat, middle ears and laryngopharynx. It may also contaminate the airways and lungs causing asthmalike symptoms, breathing difficulties, chronic cough and recurrent bronchitis or pneumonia. We frequently see

patients with a diagnosis of “atypical asthma”, which often turns out to be GORD with entry of reflux into the airways”, says Professor Van der Wall. Historically, GORD has been diagnosed using pH monitoring, fluoroscopy, or endoscopy. So how does the Gastroesophageal Reflux Test differ to these tests?

When diagnosis and treatment are delayed, chronic GORD can increase the risk for serious health complications.Although PH Monitoring is 50-80% sensitive and 77–100% specific in the presence of heartburn & regurgitation, it is limited to oesophageal disease only, particularly the lower oesophagus. Endoscopy is effective as an anatomical diagnostic tool but has a poor sensitivity for GORD (less than 30%) and is limited to detecting reflux disease that is severe enough to damage the oesophagus.

Fluoroscopy or Barium Swallow is insensitive and has a

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high radiation burden and only demonstrates oesophageal disease.

The Gastroesophageal Reflux Test is 90% sensitive and provides an effective, inexpensive, simple, and noninvasive screening tool for reflux and lung aspiration, detecting contamination throughout the maxillary sinuses, throat, middle ears, laryngopharynx, airways and lungs. If you suspect the symptoms you are suffering from correspond with reflux, you might benefit from undergoing a Gastroesophageal Reflux Test. Ask your GP for a referral to CitiScan Radiology or Lime Radiology at your next visit.

Sometimes,theconsequencesofgastricrefluxaremoreseriousthanheartburnor regurgitation,andcouldbecausing,orcontributingtomoresignificanthealthconditions.

Gastricrefluxcontaminationmayoccurthroughouttheheadandneckandcanbethecauseofearandsinusinfections, sorethroat,andadifficultyinswallowing.Refluxcanalsoirritatetheairwaysandbeaspiratedintothelungscausing chroniccough,constantthroatclearing,breathingdifficulties,recurringchestinfections,bronchitis,orpneumonia.

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Discover Brisbane’s grave past at historic cemetery

Alexandra) so those who succumbed to contagious diseases could be quickly interred.

A victim who died in the morning would be buried by the afternoon and if you died at night, you were underground next morning.

South Brisbane also has 27 graves relocated from the original Paddington Cemetery which is now under Suncorp Stadium formerly Lang Park. It presents quite a headache for genealogists as all dates are given as 1913 – the last date of burial when they were moved, regardless of date of death.

South Brisbane Cemetery was full by 1900, was extended and then filled again, finally closing in 1960.

In life there was nothing wildly remarkable about Jane Hockings, but on August 1, 1870, she entered Queensland history as the first occupant of South Brisbane Cemetery, Brisbane’s oldest surviving municipal cemetery.

Jane was born on December 12, 1795, and was 46 when she arrived in Sydney with her husband Thomas and sons Albert and Henry. Thomas formed the Youth’s Total Abstinence Society in Sydney and London.

Seven years later, in 1848, her sons moved to Moreton Bay where Jane joined them after Thomas died in 1852, and ran a drapery business on the corner of Queen and Albert Streets.

Over the next 150 years, Jane would be joined by almost 20,000 others, among them the unfortunate souls brought from the gallows at nearby Boggo Road Gaol.

Unlike other cemeteries, South Brisbane didn’t segregate by race and religion. A Russian Orthodox cross can sit beside an Irish Catholic’s Celtic cross, the only exception being 6B, which is owned by the State Government.

From 1883-1913 it became the final resting place of one woman and 41 men who came from around the world to be buried after swinging at the Boggo Road Gaol gallows.

A cheap coffin was provided, but no headstone although their names and dates are now listed on a plaque at 6B.

There are also a few unknown graves of those who were pulled from the nearby river after washing up at Cemetery Reach, as well as those from Woogaroo Lunatic Asylum at Wacol. Under the Lunatics Act, the insane were not allowed to travel on a king’s road, so they were taken by boat downstream to South Brisbane, the first cemetery on the river banks.

The cemetery was also handy to the Diamantina Hospital (now the Princess

The heritage-listed cemetery also has Brisbane’s only remaining horse troughs. In the 1800s, coffins arrived by horse and cart and the horses needed somewhere to be rested.

South Brisbane Cemetery has superb views of the Brisbane River and although parts went under during the 1893, 1974 and 2011 floods, all occupants are accounted for.

Its history is shared in regular tours.

TAKE A TOUR, BECOME A GUARDIAN ANGEL

THE South Brisbane Cemetery is now one of the city’s heritage treasures.

The Friends of South Brisbane Cemetery run not-for-profit history tours on Fridays and other selected days and also at other south-east cemeteries such as Toowong, Mount Gravatt and Ipswich.

There are also monthly Guardian Angels community days, when volunteers get together to help clean and tidy the old graves and find it satisfying to wash off an old headstone to reveal something of its former glory to the world.

Tours coming up this month are: Friday, July 14, 7.30pm-9.45 pm, My Bloody Valentine, a haunting night tour of the South Brisbane Cemetery featuring tragic graveside tales of star-crossed

lovers, broken hearts, and crimes of passion. A reminder of what can happen when love and/or hate go wrong.

Sunday, July 16, 10am-11am, History

Among the Graves, free public talk about Boggo Road and the Cemetery – 140 Years of Shared Stories.

Friday, July 28, 7.30pm-9.45pm, Murder and Mayhem, tragically true graveside tales of grisly murders, suicide, lethal insanity, contested burials, and hangings involving those who were laid to rest within this historical cemetery.

Sunday, July 30, 7.15pm-9.30pm, Ghost Stories of South Brisbane Cemetery, fascinating tales of the supernatural from a paranormal historian, a cemetery historian and a sceptic as they look at the folklore (and fakelore) of ghost stories in cemeteries.

Guardian Angels welcome visitors to join them cleaning the old graves on Sunday, August 6, 9am-1pm.

South Brisbane Cemetery is at 185 Annerley Rd, Dutton Park. Tours are popular and book out quickly.

Bookings $20, concessions $15, groups four or more $15 and can be made via bank transfer.

They are not-for-profit and run by the Friends of South Brisbane Cemetery in a community partnership with the Boggo Road Gaol Historical Society.

Visit fosbc.com, email info@fosbc. com or follow fosbc on Facebook

Cheerful little charmer belies its price tag

The smallest of so-called Sports Utility Vehicles, Suzuki’s Ignis is a little charmer. BRUCE McMAHON writes that there is much to like about it, from its hunky-funky style to a trim price tag.

The compact Ignis is an affordable, adorable even, run-around.

It’s not perfect though. The Ignis is a tad noisy, seats only four in the GLX version and there’s no console between the front seats to rest a lazy elbow. It doesn’t have a plush interior, that’s for sure.

But consider this Suzuki’s style, the city-centric convenience of a car that measures just under 4m long and 1.7m wide with a 4.7m turning circle and the starting price of $19,490 for a GL version with five-speed manual transmission.

The GLX arrives with some extra features – add in the optional Continuously Variable Transmission and the price moves to around $22,490.

Yet even with all the gear (though there’s not much the GL version loses out on over the GLX), the little Suzuki still runs as cheap as some of those petrolelectric hybrid machines. Fuel consumption is around 6 litres per 100 km while driving those front wheels with the CVT.

The economy is largely due to a kerb weight of 905kg. 1.2 litre engine pushes out 66kW of power at 6000rpm – keep

the right foot buried for best results away from the lights.

Once under way there’s no problem keeping up with the traffic though some may prefer the manual gearbox; the CVT’s a little whinge-whine noisy when under power.

And while on quibbles, the Suzuki’s suspension and those 15-inch wheels can be a touch dramatic in and around

potholes. The ride is generally good but remember this is a lightweight car on a smallish wheelbase and track (the side-toside distance between the wheels).

The positives include the Ignis hatchback’s ever-cheerful nature. That begins with the pumped-up punk styling. This second-generation version of the Suzuki Ignis arrived in 2016 with an update in 2020 and it still turns heads in

the traffic, especially when kitted out with optional body decals such as bonnet and side stripes.

Drivers have good visibility in all directions, backed by a rear-view camera for backing up. The tight turning circle and compact body dimensions mean the Ignis is a dream in the confines of the city and today’s less-than-generous car park spaces.

And room for four adults isn’t bad; there’s certainly plenty of headroom.

This is where the GLX version with its 50-50 split rear seat and just the two seatbelts makes sense – why pretend there’s room for three folk across the back seat?

With the back seats up the cargo area is better than expected, giving enough space for a week’s shopping with a space-saver tyre tucked away below.

So good luck to Suzuki for producing a cheap and cheerful SUV. The compact Ignis may not have potential for tackling a bush track but it does have the style.

It may not be first choice for running up and down the coast motorway every day, but it does make a lot of sense as a very useful town car.

For Every Woman

GREYHOUNDS PROVE WINNERS FOR RETIREES

“While teachers and nurses top the table for those people still working, the biggest cohort of greyhound adopters is undeniably retirees,” QRIC Deputy Commissioner Natalie Conner said.

greyhounds available for adoption via GAP now. Every greyhound in the GAP program is health checked and behaviourally assessed, de-sexed, wormed and vaccinated.

OF THE MONTH

RETIREES are the biggest cohort ready to adopt a greyhound.

The Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) has just released data about the people who adopt via its Greyhound Adoption Program.

“We know that greyhounds make the perfect pet for many different people, but their tendency to lie around like lazy lounge lizards, or take leisurely short strolls, makes them the perfect partner for those who have left the workforce.”

There is a selection of

“I own a GAP greyhound so may be a little biased, but they are a beautiful breed of dog,” Ms Conner said.

“They’re cheeky, playful, sweet and gentle, and spend most of the day sleeping.”

Visit gapqld.com.au or follow GAP on Facebook.

CALL FOR COMPANIONS TO BE PART OF AGED CARE

Companion Animal Network Australia’s 2023 aged care survey, Status of Pets in Aged Care also found that 91 per cent of older adults who receive a government funded Home Care Package do not receive support to help to care for their companion animal.

for older people,” CAN’s Trish Ennis said. “There’s often a emotional harm caused when older people are forced to give up their pets when moving into aged care. It also results in their much-loved animals being surrendered to shelters.”

THE benefits of pet ownership are well recognised and there are pets who need owners too. RSPCA Queensland has more than 47,000 animals arrive each year – strays, surrenders, rescues, or victims of cruelty.Meet:

DESPITE 86 per cent of older adults experiencing improved mental and physical health with pets in aged care settings, only 18 per cent of aged care facilities consider allowing residents to keep a companion animal.

“While we’ve always recognised the benefits of owning a pet, our survey shows the Australian government and aged care providers have been slow to understand the enduring value of the human-animal bond

She said some were putting their lives on the line when they refused to move into aged care because they couldn’t take their pet with them.

Visit petfriendlyagedcare. com.au/surveys

OLLIE is a male Bull Arab cross aged seven years and five months and is a perfect companion.

He’s happy to join you relaxing at home, going for casual strolls, spending time in the garden, or having a swim in the local creek and then settling in for a cuddle and a nap.

Full of personality, he’d suit a quiet home and being the only pet.

Adoption price $245 includes a bag of Royal Canin food.

GUNTHER is a five-year-old male domestic short hair cat who goes with the flow.

He’s happy napping, occasionally playing, and adores chicken treats. While happy doing his own thing most of the day, he’ll let you know when he wants a pat by rubbing against your legs. A head rub and chin scratch will never go astray and he doesn’t mind the company of other cats. Adoption price $185 includes a free bag of Royal Canin food.

Ollie and Gunther are desexed, microchipped, vaccinated, worm and flea treated. Apply to adopt rspcaqld.org.au/adopt or call the RSPCA adoption line 1300 364 443.

A unique gathering of Australia’s leading jazz musicians coming together for a feast of exciting, classic jazz

Performances in theatres, restaurants, bars, on river cruises at sunset and a free riverside outdoor concert.

A fabulous festival of jazz in the natural beauty that is –naturally Noosa

Check out the programme and buy tickets with the QR Code or go to the website

WHAT HAPPENS TO MY SUPER WHEN I DIE?

By LUCINDA DEAN By DON MACPHERSON

DID YOU know that the proceeds of your superannuation fund do not automatically form part of your estate to be distributed in accordance with your will?

Q: So, where does my Super go?

A: If you have made a Binding Death Benefit Nomination in your Will, then the proceeds (or death b enefit) will go to the nominated beneficiary or beneficiaries.

However, if you don’t have a Binding Death Benefit Nomination, then your superannuation fund has the discretion to decide who will be paid your death benefit.

Q: What is a death benefit?

A: A death benefit is the sum of money payable from your super after you die. It can include any super that was payable to you at the time of your death, plus any life insurance or other benefits payable from your super fund.

Q: What is a Binding Death Benefit Nomination?

A: It’s your written direction to your superannuation trustee outlining how you wish some or all of your super death benefits to be distributed. The nomination is generally valid

for a maximum of three years and lapses if it is not renewed. If your nomination is valid at the time of your death then the trustee is bound by law to follow it.

Q: Who can receive a death benefit?

A: After you die, only your dependant, the legal personal representative of your estate or any person you nominated under a binding nomination, can receive the death benefit from your super fund.

A dependant includes your spouse, de facto partner, child, or any person financially dependant on you.

Q: What happens if I don’t renew the Binding Death Benefit Nomination?

A: If you don’t renew the Binding Death Benefit Nomination when required (usually every three years) then it becomes non-binding and your super fund can decide who will be paid your death benefit.

Q: What happens if my nomination lapses after I have lost capacity?

A: If this happens, the law is not clear whether your Power of Attorney can renew your binding nomination. It is up to your super fund whether to allow this or not.

PROBATE is a term that regularly comes up when dealing with estates, but what it means, and what is involved, is often not well understood.

Probate is a court’s formal approval of a Will. It is not needed in all cases.

With small estates, depending on the assets, and the financial institution to be dealt with, the release of funds from a bank or super fund to the beneficiaries of the Will can be arranged simply by providing a death certificate, and a copy of the Will.

However, with more substantial assets, the financial institution will commonly request the executor of the estate to obtain probate so that it knows that it is paying out on a Will that has been officially endorsed by the court.

Banks have different rules depending on their individual requirements, but generally if there is an account of more than $50,000 then it will require probate to be produced before releasing funds.

We come across the need for probate most commonly in relation to retirement village and aged care contracts.

The usual practice is that the retirement village or aged care operator will require probate to be obtained prior to releasing to the estate (or the beneficiaries) the proceeds of the sale of the retirement village unit or the aged care refundable accommodation

deposit. The process of probate involves firstly advertising to see whether there are any alternate Wills or potential claimants against the estate.

Once a 14-day period has expired, the original Will, plus a series of other court documents must be prepared and filed in the Supreme Court.

The court will then review the Will and affidavit material in support and make an assessment as to whether the Will seems to be validly executed and should be endorsed as the true and correct last Will of the deceased person.

If satisfied, the court will issue the probate, which can then be presented to the bank, retirement village or aged care home to release the funds to which the estate is entitled. The right to make a Family Provision Claim still exists.

Brisbane Elder Law is expert in probate, estate management, and retirement village and aged care contracts. Call 1800 961 622 or visit brisbaneelderlaw.com.au

Simple moves help maintain mobility

Mobility is often confused with flexibility. TRISTAN HALL presents the top five exercises for simple mobility gains.

Generally speaking, mobility is the ability to move freely and pain-free through a full range of motion, with strength and stability.

The following is a general and basic list of five movements that can contribute to whole body mobility.

This is not specific advice, but will assist with movement capacity and won’t aggravate any previous injuries or soreness.

1. ANKLE CIRCLES – Lying on your back on the bed, grab underneath one knee with your hands taking the weight of the leg. Hold this position and draw circles with your ankles in both directions. Make 10 circles in each direction. Repeat.

2. GLUTEAL STRETCH – Lying on your back on the bed, grab underneath one knee with both hands.

Pull the knee (within limits of tightness and movement) towards your opposite shoulder and hold for 10 seconds. Repeat twice on each side.

3. LUMBAR ROCKS – Lie on the bed with legs bent and fee on the bed. Rotate knees from side to side, trying to keep the lower back on the bed. Do 10 on each side for two rounds.

4. THORACIC ROTATIONS – Sit on the edge of a chair or the bed and place crossed arms in front of the chest (genie position) Rotate both arms left and then back to the middle and then right and

back to the middle. Rotate through the upper spine and follow your arms with your eyes. Do six repeats each way for two rounds.

5. SHRUGS – Sit on the edge of a chair or the bed and raise your shoulders towards your ears and then roll them backwards and down into the spine. Relax and repeat. Do this 10 times for two rounds.

These exercises are generalised and of low intensity and can be performed daily for best results. They will improve mobility within reason, however specific movements that you have difficulty with can be improved with specific therapy.

Tristan Hall is an exercise physiologist with Full Circle Wellness. Call 0431 192 284 or visit fullcirclewellness.com.au

FIT HAPPENS With Tom Law

WE ARE lucky to live in a beautiful place in a fantastic country. Even in winter when the mornings are cold and crisp, we can appreciate where we live.

Walking one morning with my wife Margaret and a couple of friends, we chatted about the weather, our spectacular dawn and the people who were out enjoying the chilly morning air.

At the end of the walk, we got our coffee at the local early-opening café and spent a few more minutes together watching the sun rise and discussing the problems of the world and how to fix them.

But mainly we discuss how lucky we are to live in such a place and also that we are still around to enjoy it.

A lot of people are out and about walking, jogging, kayaking and fishing and not surprisingly, there is a fair percentage of senior citizens who perhaps have a more relaxed timetable to allow for exercise.

On the short walk home we both noticed a couple speeding past on a tandem bicycle. Nothing unusual about that,

except the larger male was on the back and a smaller female was the pilot at the front of the bike. Normally the stronger/ larger person would be at the front of the bike controlling the steering and direction. I made the observation to my wife and she explained that the person behind was blind. That made sense.

I remembered the man on the back seat of the bike was a blind athlete and we have seen him on a regular basis running with his guide runner along the foreshore. It then struck me how trusting this totally blind man was to be speeding around on the back of a tandem. Working as a team, no doubt, but it still needs a fair degree of trust between them.

As a personal trainer I am constantly amazed at how determined and dedicated people are to maintain fitness and health. We all operate much more efficiently if we maintain a healthy body and mind. Exercise is a big part of that equation.

Tom Law is the author of Tom’s Law Fit Happens. Visit tomslaw.com.au

FREE TEST SAVES LIVES

branch director, Paul Vardon said bowel cancer was one of the most treatable cancers, and screening was the best way to ensure early detection.

“Australia has some of the best cancer screening programs in the world but only 4 in 10 Queenslanders take advantage of the bowel cancer testing kit when it arrives in the post,” he said.

PATIENTS SEE THE VALUE OF CATARACT SURGERY

CATARACT surgery can help turn back the clock for patients’ vision, with almost half of post-surgery patients agreeing they have the vision of someone younger.

their glasses. Following surgery, the number of patients relying on glasses dropped from 81 per cent to 45 per cent.

A FREE bowel screening test is one of the best ways to prevent bowel cancer and invest in a healthy future.

Bowel cancer is the fourth most frequently diagnosed cancer and the second biggest cancer-related killer in Australia – and many of these deaths could be prevented.

The risk of bowel cancer increases with age, and can develop without any obvious symptoms.

The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program sends out free bowel cancer screening kits to eligible people between 50 and 74.

The test kit is sent directly to a Medicare-registered address and can be completed at home.

Queensland Health Cancer Screening

“More than 1 million kits have been sent to Queenslanders and not even half have been returned for testing. It’s important to make time to do the test as soon as possible. Put it near the toilet so you don’t forget about it.”

A positive result in the screening kit does not mean you have bowel cancer. Only 1 in 29 people are found to have bowel cancer after following up on a positive screening result.

“If you have an unused test sitting around at home, take a few minutes to complete it, it may just save your life,” Mr Vardon said.

If a test has expired or was thrown away, a free replacement can be requested from the National Cancer Screening Register.

It is recommended that men and women aged 50 to 74 years old partake in the screening every two years.

Call 1800 627 701.

NEW WEB RESOURCE TO FIGHT CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE

A NEW web-based resource Know Your Numbers, Treat Your Risk aims to improve outcomes for high-risk Australians living with cardiovascular disease.

The Global Alliance for Patient Access (GAfPA), an international non-profit, launched the website to support Australians who have experienced a heart attack, stroke or are at risk of a cardiovascular event.

The site addresses both the emotional impact and the clinical risk factors of cardiovascular disease.

The website’s resources help understand the role of cholesterol in the body and how high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) contribute to the risk of another heart attack or stroke. An estimated 110 Australians

have a heart attack each day and 500,000 have LDL cholesterol levels higher than the recommended targets.

Patients can be empowered and take an active role in managing their cardiovascular health by “knowing their numbers and treating their risk”.

While primary prevention is critical in the fight against cardiovascular disease, there remains inadequate resources, funding and focus dedicated to secondary prevention.

Patients are encouraged to proactively work with their GP to develop a heart health care plan to address factors such as cholesterol, blood pressure, diet, weight, exercise and mental wellbeing.

Visit knowyournumberstreatyourrisk. com.au

the portable travel mobility

A survey was conducted in March and April among more than 7000 participants aged 50-plus in 10 countries by global eye careleader Alcon, to evaluate vision and cataract insights among the world’s aging population.

It found that 84 per cent of those aged over 50 wear and rely on glasses but 69 per cent of all those surveyed, including those who have not been diagnosed with cataracts, would feel liberated without

Cataract extraction and lens replacement is the most frequently performed surgery worldwide, with nearly 30 million cataract surgeries completed every year.

Despite the prevalance of cataracts and the importance of vision, there are still misconceptions about the surgery — there are several different types of intraocular lens to meet individual needs; surgery involves implanting a permanent lens into the eye; recovery time is short.

COMMUNITY GATHERS OLD AND NEW FRIENDS

MALCOLM and Deidre Johnson are preparing to pack up a quarter of a century of memories to move to Stockland’s Halcyon Promenade.

As the couple prepared to downsize, they considered moving into a unit close to their Aspley home, but nothing suited their needs. Then they discovered Halcyon Promenade a little further up the highway and a short drive from Moreton Bay at Burpengary East.

“We had been thinking about moving for years, but we kept procrastinating,” says Deidre.

“Malcolm had a fall on the stairs last year and broke his arm. Our children stepped in and encouraged us to find something single-level.”

Halcyon Promenade offers an alternative to a unit with low-set homes and a low-maintenance lifestyle.

With their move-in date scheduled for 2024, Malcolm and Deidre are enjoying getting to know their future neighbours at onsite gatherings organised by the Halcyon Communities team.

From morning teas to happy hours, future residents get together for meetand-greets to begin building connections before they officially become home owners. For Malcolm and Deidre, some of

the neighbours won’t be strangers.

“I ran into a guy I worked with for years. He’s moving in a block over from us,” Malcolm says. “A few others I knew from the fire brigade are also moving in.”

Malcolm, a paramedic, retired in 2012. Deidre officially retired in 2021 but returned part-time, working from home.

“It keeps my mind active,” she says. “I’m 70 now, but I don’t feel it. I like to keep busy.”

Avid travellers, Malcolm and Deidre are planning more adventures. Being able to lock up and leave knowing everything is secure makes it easy.

Malcolm loves watching sports and has been involved with the Wilston Grange AFL Club most of his life. He’s also looking forward to getting together with neighbours and also into the workshed.

Visit stockland.com.au/halcyonpromenade

SUNCARERS ON THE JOB

SUNCARE has specialised in the delivery of in-home services for older Australians throughout central and southeast Queensland since 1970.

The dedication of the “Suncarers” ensures that getting older doesn’t have to mean moving into residential aged care.

From everyday services such as housekeeping and meal preparation to a lift to the shops or a garden tidy-up, the Suncare team knows how to make the most of funding and options.

Services include housekeeping, home and garden maintenance or transport and simply ensure that extra support is available –always with a smile and a chat.

Suncare support worker Carrey goes home every day knowing she has made a real difference to the lives of those she works with.

Before Carrey joined the team as a Suncarer, she knew she wanted a job that was fulfilling and gave her a sense of purpose.

“I met a couple of people who worked for Suncare and they seemed to love their jobs. Secondly, they were really happy, outgoing people. I knew immediately that’s what I wanted to do,” she said.

“I am proud to be a Suncarer and when I go home, I feel like I have really made a

difference to the lives of others.”

As a growing organisation, Suncare is recruiting volunteers and employees for a range of different roles that support customers to remain living independently at home.

If you are looking for a fulfilling career in which you will go home every day knowing you have made a positive difference in someone’s life, call Suncare HR to find out how you can be involved in the important work being done.

As a Suncarer you will help deliver innovative in-home health and community services and help achieve the vision of making people’s lives better. Visit suncare.org.au/careers or call the team on 1800 786 227

STUDENTS BRING JOY TO RESIDENTS RETIREES ROLL UP THEIR SLEEVES FOR ORANGE SKY

RESIDENTS of The Clayfield retirement village have stepped up to support disadvantaged young members of the community, ensuring they have access to clean clothes.

On Tuesdays, a laundry van from the charity, Orange Sky, arrives at the Aveo retirement village with loads of dirty clothes and towels collected from a Brisbane school.

The Clayfield’s residents help wash the laundry and provide company and conversation for Orange Sky’s rostered volunteers.

Sales manager Amanda Adams said she was keen to involve the village residents in the work of Orange Sky after

the not-for-profit group supported her by washing her belongings when her home was inundated by floods in 2022.

“It is an organisation close to my heart and I knew the residents would be keen to help,’’ Amanda says. “Orange Sky is so busy at the moment with their services in demand across the community.

The four-week trial at The Clayfield is an experiment by Orange Sky which is looking at how the program might be implemented at other retirement living communities.

The Clayfield, at 469 Sandgate Rd, Albion, offers a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

Call 13 28 36 or visit aveo.com.au

MORE than 50 local seniors and residents from Seniors Living Waterford West enjoyed a day of cultural performances showcasing the many talents of Marsden State High School students.

The day featured live performances from students demonstrating traditional Samoan, Tahitian, Tongan and African dances plus solo acts from the top achieving students in guitar and keyboard.

Performances were in the peaceful landscape of Seasons Living Waterford West.

“The performances were absolutely thrilling and another way we bring residents and local community together to create truly engaging and memorial moments” lifestyle co-ordinator Stacey Fairhall said. “It was wonderful to see all

the residents’ smiling faces.”

Seasons Waterford West has one, two and three-bedroom independent seniors living apartments, with 24/7 onsite care available.

Visit seasonsliving.com.au/Waterfordwest or call Nicola Wilcock 0439 389 849.

ORCHIDS BLOOM FOR ANNUAL WINTER SHOW

species, and native orchids. It’s a perfect opportunity for photographers and there will be lots of plants and growing accessories for sale.

Potting demonstrations will be conducted both days at approximately 10am and 1pm and cultural advice will be available all weekend.

Brisbane City Council runs a bus service to the gardens at Mount Coot-tha and there is off street parking, with disabled parking at the front door.

VIEW CLUBS KNUCKLE DOWN FOR SMITH

BRENDALE View Club is urging its local community to give generously to The Smith Family’s Winter Appeal to support thousands of children and young people with their education.

The Smith Family CEO, Doug Taylor, said families were having to make impossible decisions about where to spend their limited funds – it could mean paying for school essentials or a meal on the table.

ARANA View Club is calling on the community to give generously to The Smith Family’s Winter Appeal.

View (Voice, Interests and Education of Woman) is a leading woman’s organisation dedicated to supporting children in need with their education through The Smith Family. Members do this through community fundraising, spreading awareness, and volunteering.

THE John Oxley District Orchid Society has its Annual Winter Show coming up. There will be displays of hybrid,

Auditorium, Botanic Gardens Mount Coot-tha. Saturday, July 29, 8.30am-4pm and Sunday 30, 9am-3pm. Admission $4.

NEW ONLINE PLATFORM PUTS KINDNESS FIRST

KINDNESS Counts, an innovative online platform to promote and reward kindness in a digital world, has been developed in collaboration with the Queensland University of Technology Capstone program and IAgeWell.

It will be unveiled at the Senior Leadership Awards during Queensland Seniors Month in October.

“Kindness Counts recognises the growing need for people in the community to lend a hand and help those in need,” says gerontologist and IAgeWell director Tanya Dave.

“We all have the ability to care and support one another in our community.

You don’t need a qualification to care for your neighbour and lend a hand.”

The Kindness Counts platform allows people to post a job they need done and set out a reward. Volunteers who live nearby and have been screened can then take on the job. On completion, they redeem a gift card at participating stores.

Carer Assist program founder Caroline Roberts said by harnessing the power of technology, the platform aimed to foster a culture of kindness and generosity, both online and offline.

“Kindness Counts seeks to inspire positive change in the online community and beyond,” she said.

The education charity is aiming to raise $6.2 million nationally to give over 14,000 children across Australia access to its proven programs.

Brendale View has regular dinner meetings on the third Tuesday of the month, 6.30pm for a 7pm start at Aspley Hornets Football Club.

The next meeting is July 18, with guest speaker Maria Laracy from Uniforms 4kids.

A Coffee and Chat morning is held on the first Saturday of the month, 10am, White’s Coffee Co in Bracken Ridge Tavern.

On July 31, there will be Walk for View, an early morning walk from Arthur Davies Park, Flinders Pde, Sandgate. Call Fran 0410 611 930.

A Sausage Sizzle at Bunnings Brendale, cnr Old North Rd and Kremzow Rd Brendale, is on August 19. Visit view.org.au or email president Helen at hlhdwh@bigpond.com

View members volunteer their time fundraising for The Smith Family in a variety of ways.

They help raise funds for programs like student2student, which pairs younger children with reading buddies; sponsor students through the Learning for Life program so they are supported throughout their entire education; and volunteer at Learning Clubs, where children are given help with their homework after school.

Call Judy 0424315300 or email aranaview@gmail.com

OLDER WOMEN’S NETWORK

WOMEN over 50 who are interested in social activities and meeting new friends are invited to attend a branch meeting Older Women’s Network.

Members enjoy a chat, discuss a range of topics, try a range of activities and have fun while making new friends. Call Older Women’s Network 3358 2301 to find a branch near you.

WHAT’S ON OPERA AUSTRALIA PRESENTS BARBER OF SEVILLE

OPERA Australia’s razor-sharp new production of Rossini’s The Barber of Seville is coming to Cleveland as part of its national tour .

The riotous romp along the road to true love is opera at its light-hearted, effervescent best, a musical masterpiece with a storyline that would be equally at home in a Hollywood rom-com.

Count Almaviva is wealthy, stealthy and head over heels.

Smitten Rosina is witty and pretty with razor-sharp smarts.

She’s also inconveniently betrothed. They need a plan.

Time to call on Fi-ga-ro! Figaro! Figaro!

Beyond haircuts and beard trims, this canny barber is also the city’s matchmaking maestro.

It takes all his clever disguises, subterfuge and scheming to wrangle a romantic encounter for the would-be lovers.

These irrepressibly funny characters will be brought to life by Opera Australia’s finest voices and a live orchestra as they deliver a score that is instantly familiar from renditions in

movies, cartoons and commercials.

The Barber of Seville is a must-see if you love Downton Abbey, Sliding Doors, clever disguises gone wrong and a case of mistaken identities.

Sung in Italian with English subtitles it will be performed with a live chamber orchestra. Redland Performing Arts Centre, Cleveland. Saturday, July 22, 7.30pm.

Tickets from $53. Bookings call the RPAC Box Office 3829 8131 or visit rpac.com.au (booking fees $5 by phone and $6 online).

DAY TO SAMPLE HOW THINGS WERE DONE

REDLAND Museum’s popular annual Switch on to Science day in conjunction with National Science Week, will bring childhood memories alive.

Museum volunteers will operate and demonstrate a wide variety of working vintage equipment and talk about the science and principles that make them work. Everyone will be encouraged to try operating the old equipment and to explore how technology has evolved.

“Working vintage machines are perfect for demonstrating the basic principle of science because they are much simpler than modern machines, and it is easier to understand how they work,” museum science coordinator Ross Bower said. “Also, they are fun to watch and play with.”

Switch on to Science aims to challenge the curious and get people to think about science in our everyday surroundings.

For some it will be a happy walk down memory lane.

This year’s activities include crystal sets (the earliest form of radio receivers), communicating with amateur radio, learning

Morse code, playiing with the oldest telephones and switchboards, and sending messages on a telegraph machine. See what kitchens were like 100 years ago, learn how clothes were washed before machines, buy lollies at an old style lolly shop, use a treadle sewing machine, make a scarf on a knitting machine, and spin wool.

Write with a slate, operate a century-old movie projector, play music on a music box and a player piano, see germs under a microscope, play with windup toys, make your own rope, and churn butter from cream.

Lunch, cool drinks, tea, and coffee will be available.

Redland Museum, 60 Smith St. Monday, August 14, 10am-2pm. Visit redlandmuseum.org.au

THE City Botanic Gardens will be transformed into a technicolour wonderland when the sun goes down during the Brisbane festival.

The internationally renowned immersive experience Lightscape is a a multi-sensory journey of light, colour and sound designed and curated to highlight the gardens.

The self-guided experience follows an illuminated 2km trail through the botanic gardens, under glowing tree canopies filled with colour, through tunnels of shimmering light and beside

neon roots in the undergrowth.

Larger-than-life flowers and dazzling foliage will be suspended high in the night sky.

Presented by Brisbane Festival and Sony Music Entertainment, Lightscape will mark its Queensland premiere with installations that enhance the natural features of the Gardens and include a First Nations-led projection work by local artists.

Visitors can wander the trail at their own pace, with an average duration of 90 minutes.

Make a night of it and enjoy dinner and drinks before or after Lightscape, with a range of food and beverage outlets operating on-site.

City Botanic Gardens. Thursday, August 31- Sunday, October 8, every 15 mins, 5.45pm to late. Tickets from $35 Bookings brisbanefestival.com.au

MUM AND DAUGHTER DUO MAKE THE MOST OF LIFE

HERE’S to Life has many stories, and one of the finest is that of mother/daughter duo Ellen and Nicole Bennett.

Ellen joined Here’s to Life jazz dancing classes nine years ago as a way to get in some exercise that wasn’t the usual run-of-the-mill cardio gym workout.

She was enraptured by the comradery she found at H2L.

“Shortly after starting at Here’s to Life, I lost my husband. The love, support and kindness I received from my H2L friends really helped to carry me through this sad time and still does,” she says.

After a few months, Ellen brought her daughter Nicole to join in the fun. Nicole started dancing in the jazz class with her mum, but quickly decided she would like to learn to tap dance and sing as well.

Between the two of them they sing, tap dance, do jazz dancing, drumming and the occasional bone strengthening class.

Nicole rarely misses her tap lessons on Mondays, and has mastered some tricky steps and rhythms. She is like a songbird in singing classes, and takes on challenging balance work in Buff Bones classes.

What makes her story even more special, is that Nicole has Down Syndrome.

Her love of the world, life and the people she sings and dances with, is infectious. Every member of H2L knows Nic – she is the personification of joy and

brings it with her to every session.

Like mum, Nicole also volunteers her time (about six hours a week) to work at Here’s to Life. They happily give their time and energy tto make sure H2L continues.

As well as volunteering around the hall, they both sing, dance and drum their way through the annual Here’s to Life concert, and participate in community performances throughout the Redlands.

Ellen also offers much appreciated financial sponsorship through the family business Bennett’s Carpets.

“Here’s to Life is a better place for having these wonderful souls around. I could not imagine our lives without H2L,” Ellen says.

Book now for the H2L Variety Charity Concert at RPAC, on September 23, 2pm. Visit herestolife.org.au or call Sue 0407 154 993.

We offer unique Cleveland based programs for men and women aged from 40 to 70+ in Singing, Tap and Jazz Dancing, Djembe Drumming and Buff Bones®. Along with specialised programs for people living with a disability – Dancercise, Drumming/percussion & Art. Whether reviving old hobbies or learning new skills, we have something for you.

So come along and help us celebrate life while having fun and making new friends. www.herestolife.org.au

GARDENS EXHIBITION IS COMING UP ROSES

For more than two decades, she studied and worked with watercolour, but after a breast cancer diagnosis and surgery in 2021, found that oil painting was the driver for her recovery.

Her work in this new medium allowed her to capture striking, photograph-like moments in the lives of flowers while at the same time, connecting the observer to their enduring qualities of softness beauty, imperfection, and tenderness.

HISTORICAL VILLAGE PACKS HERITAGE DAY PROGRAM

THERE’S an action-packed lineup planned at the Caboolture Historical Village for Heritage Day, to entertain, educate and connect with local history.

The event includes demonstrations of traditional methods used to build, make, bake, and create, to show the skilled art forms of craftspeople of yesteryear.

EMERGING Brisbane artist Sharyn Northcott, who is preparing for her Old Gold art exhibition at the Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens, has a story as colourful as her work.

She began her career in advertising and became a successful wedding photographer in the late 1980s. She also spent two months photographing polar bears above the Arctic Circle in Canada. Her study and work as a florist furthered her expertise in artistic composition and the physiology of flowers and now she captures and celebrates the beauty of flowers – large closeups, mostly roses, in all the shades and textures.

Sharyn also had a career as an athlete, personal trainer and triathlon coach from 2002, which involved building a squad of up to 50 triathletes – and she has completed 13 Ironman events including the Hawaii World Championship.

Her first exhibition was in May 2022, followed by another a year later.

She is currently part of the Inside Out art program at St Vincent’s Northside Private Hospital at Chermside, with 14 pieces now in the oncology ward after a successful lobby display for three months over Christmas.

“I have three precious pieces on exhibit at the St Vincent’s Breast Health Care unit, and also a rotating art piece at GenesisCare, Chermside as part of their enrichment program,” she says. “My hope is to bring calm and beauty to those in hospital receiving treatment, to those visiting, and to the doctors, nurses and other staff too.”

Sharyn draws most of her inspiration from her own garden, or gardens in her neighbourhood.

Richard Randall Art Studio, Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens. July 20-23. Free entry and plenty of parking.

The village makes a perfect setting, with its historic buildings setting the scene. Volunteers and exhibitors will dress for the occasion.

See the workings of the foundry, beekeeping, a luthier (guitar maker), blacksmiths and rope makers, as well as the Lace Makers Guild, spinners and weavers and the Artisans Guild.

Among many demonstrations, re-enactments and displays will be whip cracking, vintage and veteran cars and motorcycles, small engine machinery, and military displays. Family history groups from Moreton Bay region will be on hand while the CWA (Stanmore Hall) is in charge of cake decorating, knitting, felting and quilting, and making preserves and jams.

Explore the vintage market’s crafts and clothes, steampunk paraphernalia, books, antiques and handmade soaps and sample fruit wines, old-fashioned candy and fudge and traditional ginger beer.

Entertainment during the day includes a live band, traditional dancers, and two

parades — the Grand Parade at 12pm and a Vintage Parade at 3pm.

The Blarney Stone Celtic Band will be playing in the hotel, North Pine Bush Poets will perform between band sets, and harpists will play at St Lawrence Church, whle the Belswagger Morris Dancers and Dance Kaleidoscope, an 18th century country dance in costume, will give roving performances.

Scent Dog Search and Rescue and Mini Allstars, a miniature horse trick show, will give demonstrations and there will be displays of flora and fauna, with specialist wildlife animal rescue groups and Native Plants Queensland, as well as Clydesdales, goats, sheep, and chickens.

Pack up the grandkids and make a day of it as you get a taste of the best of the past together.

Caboolture Historical Village, 280 Beerburrum Rd. Saturday, July 22, 9am-4pm. Tickets $10, parking gold coin donation. Visit historicalvillage.com.au or follow on Facebook.

The artistic vibe will be alive and well on October 27, 28 and 29

GBART,as we have fondly named it, is a dedica on to all things crea ve and showcases the ever-growing talent of the ar sans who call the Granite Belt home.

Held over three huge days, follow the trail map to discover a variety of local ar sans, as they exhibit at studios and galleries as well as taking up residence in community spaces.

GBART is an open studio ‘meet the maker’ event.

The Granite Belt Art and Cra Trail program encourages visitors to gallery hop their way around the Granite Belt. Gallery and workshop spaces range

from ar sans in residence at their private studios to ar san collec ves in some of the region’s best wineries and award winning cafes. Witness our ar sans expand their crea vity into the ambience of our village.

This self drive trail provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy the picturesque landscapes around Stanthorpe and the Granite Belt, including na onal parks, mountains, award-winning wineries and local cafes.

GBART prides itself on being more than simply an exhibi on of art.

As a visitor to GBART you can enrol in a class, watch a demonstra on and get in and have a goodgo.

GBART is held during spring in Queensland’s Granite Belt Wine Country. Famous for its fresh farm gate produce, gourmet food trails and bou que cellar doors, the Granite Belt delivers the perfect balance of country charm and cosmopolitan finesse.

Spring on the Granite Belt will have your crea ve longings inspired by warm sunny days and cool crisp nights.

It is the season when the orchards which dot the region come to life with beau ful spring blossoms.

Queensland’s premier wine district, it’s the perfect me to enjoy new vintage tas ngs and to experience the myriad of vineyards in beau ful green bud.

GBART begins at the top of the Granite Belt at Dalveen (about 2.5 hours from Brisbane) and winds its way south to the New South Wales border.

Art comes in all shapes, sizes and materials on the Granite Belt. It’s a Cornucopia of cra smanship, presented against a backdrop of wonderful spring me landscapes, local wines, fresh produce and gourmet goodies. Don’t forget to book your accommoda on straight away too.

Book classes direct with ar sans via QR codes in flipbook on the website For more informa on go to:

www.gbart.org.au

The

Boomers capitalise on becoming travel royalty

Over 55s spending the kids’ inheritance are the new travel royalty. PAUL HUGHES outlines why and how this will help the demographic get better travel deals.

travel can provide an opportunity to connect with others and make new friendships.

Apart from the exhilaration of experiencing new cultures and destinations, travel can also provide a sense of purpose and help combat feelings of isolation and depression.

Communities around the world are now giving over 55 travellers increased recognition and attention because we can have a significant impact on local communities. We tend to spend more on activities, accommodation and meals compared with younger travellers.

This means we inject significant revenue into local economies, support small businesses and contribute to job creation.

discounts to attract this growing business. They recognise that over 55s are more likely to:

• Travel with friends or family thus increasing the economic value to communities.

It seems like spending the kids’ inheritance has become the new norm. If you’re over 55 and like to travel, give yourself a pat on the back because you are now officially recognised as the one of the most important tourist markets in the world.

Multiple international studies show that over 50s play a far greater role in national economies than many realised, and the world travel industry is rushing to capitalise on this market and to cater more directly for our needs.

Tourism Research Australia (TRA) says the over 50s market accounts for about 40 per cent of all domestic overnight travel in Australia, or around 54 million trips, which has increased significantly since P-Day (pandemic day).

It also revealed that over 55s travellers contribute $37.7 billion annually to the Australian economy, which is around 43 per cent of the total domestic overnight tourism expenditure.

As populations age, the world is seeing

a surge in interest from older travellers, with researchers for VISA now valuing the world over 50s travel market at more than $US 1 trillion (about $1.4 trillion). Putting that in perspective, that is more than the total economy of Australia in 2008, or Saudi Arabia in 2022.

According to the AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) which has 38 million members, over 50s are the largest demographic in terms of travel spending and are seeking unique experiences and adventures that cater to their specific needs or wishes.

The flip side to all this is that older travellers are also gaining maximum benefits.

As well as giving them the opportunity to learn new things, meet new people and experience new cultures, travel has significant health benefits, including improved mental health, reduced stress levels and increased physical activity.

Older adults who may be dealing with a sense of loss or loneliness often find

Sat, 8 July: Queensland Garden Expo – Nambour ......... $60

Sat, 22 July: Christmas in July –Gold Coast to Brisbane Cruise ................... $188**

Sat, 9 September: Mooloolaba Lunch Cruise ............... $152*

Sat, 7 October: Eumundi Markets ................................. $42

Sat, 2 December: Christmas Lunch Day Trip –Woodlands of Marburg ..................... $170*

In Australia, over 55 travellers have an even greater impact in regional areas, with the TRA report showing we accounted for 56 per cent of domestic overnight tourism expenditure in regional Australia, contributing $22.7 billion to those economies in 2019.

There are multiple online options to get discounts. Using your favourite search engine, type in “internet coupons” or “online coupons” and multiples website should appear giving discounts on everything from package holidays to travel insurance, hotel discounts and restaurant savings.

In particular, search for “travel” and “holidays” and you might be pleasantly surprised by the deals available, both in Australia and overseas.

Also check out free or discounted travel for seniors. Most states offer free off-peak public bus and rail transport for seniors in their own state, and some even offer limited free airline travel.

The best way to get a great deal is to regularly monitor the travel market, as increasingly travel organisations and businesses are offering significant

• Seek cultural experiences such as visiting historical sites, local museums, and cultural festivals, which helps to promote and preserve cultural heritage and traditions.

• Join in local sports and exercise activities such as golf, bowls and community fitness activities to maintain regular routines, meet new people and explore new locations.

• Take tours and, rather than flocking to crowded theme parks, enjoy activities such as wineries, coffee shops and wellness facilities such as local spas.

•Many over 55s are retired and don’t have to rush back to work after a few days away, so they often spend more time in the region.

As more people enter this demographic, over 55s travel will continue to grow, meaning businesses and destinations will create even more opportunities for us.

Paul Hughes is a journalist, now retired, and travel writer who launched the Holiday Destinations website with his wife Vi in 2008.

Visit holidaydestinationsaroundtheworld. com.au

Vi and Paul Hughes, right, with Paul’s brother John and his wife Gail in Vietnam

The Hughes visit Melbourne.

Where next? Survey reveals top destinations for 2023

for the year. Australia was included in the list, to measure its popularity against global locations.

Destinations closer to home came out on top as flight prices remain high. Many travellers are still only beginning to get back to international travel.

In 2022, travel search engine KAYAK reported that average return economy international flight prices had soared by 33 per cent from 2019.

The InsureandGo survey found that this year, trips to Asia and North America may eclipse the traditional European trip.

the major states and territories, the highest proportion of respondents that chose Australia as the top destination were from South Australia, at 61 per cent.

This was followed by 59 per cent of West Australians, an equal 55 per cent of Queenslanders and Victorians, 54 per cent of NSW residents and 47 per cent of ACT residents.

As holiday makers and travellers hit the road for a winter escape, Queensland comes in as the top domestic destination and New Zealand as the global favourite.

A survey of an independent panel of 1001 Australian travellers, commissioned by travel insurance provider InsureandGo, has revealed that after a three-year hiatus the population is on the move again, with 61 per cent travelling inside Australia, and 37 per cent having gone, or planning to travel, overseas.

One in three chose Queensland as their

preferred state destination, which is not surprising after Queensland saw a record $24.5 billion in domestic visitor spend in the year to September 2022.

The InsureandGo survey found that only 16 per cent of respondents indicated NSW appealed to them the most, followed closely by Western Australia (13 per cent), Victoria (12 per cent) Tasmania (11 per cent) South Australia (7 per cent) the Northern Territory (5 per cent) and the ACT at just 1 per cent.

Respondents were also asked to choose their top three global holiday destinations,

The Asia-Pacific appealed to 44 per cent of respondents, while 35 per cent chose North America as their international destination, compared with 31 per cent who chose Western Europe.

The results were New Zealand (59 per cent), Asia-Pacific and Southeast Asia (44 per cent), USA and Canada (35 per cent), Western Europe (31 per cent), UK (30 per cent), Eastern Europe (17 per cent), South America (8 per cent), Africa (6 per cent), Middle East (5 per cent), Central Asia (5 per cent) and Central America (5 per cent).

More than half of respondents revealed that Australia appealed to them more than all of the international destinations listed in the survey for a holiday this year.

In a comparison of respondents across

InsureandGo also asked respondents to identify the three types of holidays that most appealed to them, from a list of 10. Beach holidays topped the list (76 per cent) followed by city trips (59 per cent). Cruises also ranked highly, attracting 34 per cent of respondents, while adventure holidays appealed to 32 per cent, and 26 per cent chose outback holidays.

Lower-income households are more likely to embark on a cruise than higherincome households. This type of holiday was chosen by 37 per cent of respondents whose households earn ups to $60,000, compared with 35 per cent who earn between $60,000-79,999, and 31 per cent of those making over $80,000.

“It’s encouraging to see an overwhelming majority of Australians are still valuing travel as a great escape for their wellbeing, despite tightening of many household budgets,” InsureandGo chief commercial officer Jonathan Etkind said.

New Zealand has topped the list of preferred global destinations.

Luxury expedition leads to nature at its rawest

a journey through the Galapagos archipelago.

Walk in the footsteps of Charles Darwin exploring the islands that inspired his groundbreaking theory of evolution.

From swimming alongside sea turtles to observing the giant Galapagos tortoises, the cruise brings visitors face-to-face with the remarkable creatures of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

For those seeking an extended adventure, there’s an optional extension to explore the Andes, with their breathtaking vistas and indigenous cultures.

Immerse in the vibrant energy of the Amazon Jungle where lush greenery and exotic wildlife abound while staying in luxury accommodation.

Nature does wonderful things when left alone and Silversea Origin shares the evolving wonders of the Galapagos easily, respectfully, luxuriously.

Nature enthusiasts seeking an extraordinary travel experience can embark on an unforgettable adventure.

The Silversea Origin Galapagos Islands cruise is a gateway to discovering the

wonders of one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.

This is not just a cruise, but an expedition into one of the most remarkable protected wilderness areas left on Earth.

Departing October 2024, the voyage is

Helloworld Travel provides a fully escorted experience with a professional, accompanying guests from Brisbane to take care of all the logistics and ensure a seamless travel experience.

Every moment of the journey is meticulously curated to ensure an exceptional experience.

Almost everything is included – flights, accommodation, meals, drinks, transfers,

and zodiac and touring excursions and a saving of $2000 a person is available if booked by August 31. Spaces on this remarkable journey are limited.

The Silver Origin Galapagos Islands cruise promises an experience that transcends the ordinary and transports travellers into a world of awe-inspiring beauty and unparalleled serenity.

Call Helloworld Travel Eatons Hill, Kenmore or Spring Hill.

CT

Coolum Tours & Travel

SENIOR COACH TOURS

INCLUDING:

5 Star Coach Travel

All Accommodation

Tours and Entry Fees

All Dinners & Breakfasts

Most Lunches

Home Pickup & Return*

2023 Tour Program WITH SEATS AVAILABLE

2023 Tour Program

AUGUST 2023

FEBRUARY 2023

O’Reillys Rainforest Retreat (4 Days)

King Island (4 Days)

Carnarvon Gorge & Wallaroo (7 Days)

Murray River & Kangaroo Island (11 Days)

Lightning Ridge (7 Days)

MARCH 2023

Fraser Island Whale Watch (4 Days)

Fraser Island Explorer (4 Days)

SEPTEMBER 2023

O’Reillys Escape (4 Days)

JUNE 2023

Red Centre - Adelaide to Darwin (18 Days)

NOVEMBER 2023

Queensland Savannah (12 Days)

NSW Central Coast & Blue Mountains (10 Days)

JULY 2023

Carnarvon Gorge & Wallaroo (7 Days)

2024 Preview

AUGUST 2023

MARCH: Norfolk Island (8 Days)

O’Reillys Rainforest Retreat (4 Days)

Bookings

PHONE (07) 5391 1648

M 0409 278 971

E tours@cttravel.com.au

APRIL 2023

Carnarvon Gorge & Wallaroo (7 Days)

2023 Autumn Tour (9 Days)

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers (4 Days)

High Country to Murray Delta (11 Days)

Spring Gardens Tour (12 Days)

MAY 2023

OCTOBER 2023

Norfolk Island (9 Days)

Fraser Coast inc Lady Musgrave Island (5 Days )

APRIL: Great Ocean Road (12 Days)

Carnarvon Gorge & Wallaroo (7 Days)

Lightning Ridge (7 Days)

JUNE: SW Outback to Coast (12 Days)

Fraser Island Whale Watch (4 Days)

SEPTEMBER 2023

NQ Coast Run - Townsville to Port Douglas

For more detailed itinerary information on any of these tours, please visit our website:

JULY: NQ Savannah Way (12 Days )

Carnarvon Gorge & Wallaroo (7 Days)

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers (4 Days)

SEPT / OCT: Darling River Run (10 Days )

Spring Gardens Tour (12 Days)

Flinders Rangers (10 Days)

www.cttravel.com.au

SHORT BUT SWEET TREASURES ON THE DOORSTEP

IT DOESN’T take long to recharge and recover from the winter blues when you are on a voyage of discovery.

Here are some short escapes coming up from Paul Brockhurst at CT Travel:

• A seven-day tour to the Carnarvon region departs August 7 and September 4, and includes four nights “glamping” at the Wallaroo Outback Retreat, a station on 29,000ha of some of Australia’s best beef cattle country. It captures the magnificent scenery of the western escarpment of the Carnarvon Ranges from the Arcadia Valley and is the perfect base for day trips with experienced nature guides leading the way to the highlights of Carnarvon Gorge National Park.

• For seven days from August 17, there’s plenty to see on the way to Lightning Ridge, the only place in Australia where the prized black opal can be found.

Visit various local attractions as you travel through Dalby, Miles, Roma, Surat, St George and Dirranbandi. Visit a cotton farm and the Riversands Vineyards and spend three days on the opal fields.

• Make a four-day escape for whale watching at K’Gari (Fraser Island) from August 28.

See the places that everyone talks about. From Kingfisher Bay Resort, head to Central Station, Lake McKenzie, 75 Mile Beach, Eli Creek, the Maheno Shipwreck and Eurong, then watch the humpbacks

K’Gari beauty spot Lake McKenzie playing in the sheltered waters off K’Gari on a whale watch adventure cruise.

• A five-day excursion to Bundaberg, Lady Musgrave Island and the Fraser Coast leaves October 14.

Visit the Hinkler Hall of Aviation, Bundaberg Rum Distillery and Bargara and spend a day cruising to Lady Musgrave Island by luxury catamaran. Agnes Waters and 1770 are also on the list.

Full itineraries are on the CT Travel website.

Visit cttravel.com.au

The Glasshouse Mountains district is a treasure right on our doorstep. JAN KENT joins a day tour and finds there’s more to its fame than the obvious monoliths passed on treks up and down the Bruce.

THE Glasshouse Mountains Lookout, a day use and picnic area in the Beerburrum West State Forest, is a peaceful spot. From the vantage point of the old fire observation tower, the vista of the mountains is truly breathtaking.

With the information boards around the stone walls of the lower platform, identification of all 13 peaks is easily accomplished. The history of the local area, including the First Nations people, is displayed on informative and decorative panels, adding to the experience of this beautiful place.

The aptly-named Lookout Café is only a five minute drive away, then it’s another short journey to the day’s highlight – Bankfoot House Heritage Precinct. This heritage-listed property dates to the 1860s, when it was a Cobb and Co coach stop for weary travellers en route to the Gympie goldfields.

Three generations had lived in this house until 2002, when Jack Ferris died in his 101st year. The house was sold to the Caloundra City Council on condition it be preserved as an historic home and a

testament to the lives of those who had pioneered this area.

It contains more than 6000 pieces of history and documentation of the early days of survival and resourcefulness.

A guide kept us entertained with interesting stories of the families who had carved their existence through hard work and determination. Having time to explore and read some of the information panels as well as examining relics from earlier times made for an intriguing visit to a little-known gem of the area.

A pleasant relaxing drive led to the lunch stop at Landsborough’s Steaming Cup Café. This was a great end to an enjoyable day out, in good company.

It was well organised and a wonderful way to discover previously unexplored places.

Visit

$2,000

HONEYBEE

By Craig Silvey

Reviewed by Jan Kent

HONEYBEE grabs the reader right from its dramatic beginning – an old man and a young person meet by chance on a bridge, both believing their lives are not worth continuing beyond this night.

With clever crafting of these two main characters, the author draws us into lives of loneliness, loyalty and the all-too common struggle that young people experience when trying to be themselves, despite the opinions of the world around them.

Gradually we learn what has drawn Sam and Vic to the bridge and their friendship grows. This story is both heart-breaking and heartwarming, with an intensity that at times is difficult to read.

As other characters are artfully brought to life, the reader will laugh and cry with them in equal measure. This is one of the best books I have read – in fact I recently read it again.

LIFE OR DEATH

By Michael Robotham

Reviewed by Jo

Bourke

THIS is a riveting crime novel by Australian author Michael Robotham. Ten-year incarcerated Audie Palmer was involved in an armed robbery to which he confessed. The huge amount of money was never found. Why on earth would he escape the day before his release?

Do not be put off by the brutal prison scenes in which both inmates and guards crave the missing money. Life or Death is more about understanding Audie, the ultimate underdog, as he confronts insurmountable odds.

Even though the reader knows good will prevail and Audie will win in the end, the author takes us along for the ride, via characters so vivid that their interactions have stayed with me.

Although there are some unbelievable scenes when Audie is barely a step ahead of his pursuers the suspense of the story is guaranteed to lead to late night reading. Michael Robotham never disappoints. This novel is perfect for TV or movie portrayal.

DEATH UNDER A LITTLE SKY

By Stig Abell

Reviewed by Annie Grossman

THE crime genre is becoming increasingly crowded these days, and readers need to look carefully to find the gems. This is one of them.

Jake has been a successful London detective for many years, concentrating primarily on cold cases. One day a letter arrives from his eccentric uncle Arthur’s solicitor that his uncle has left Jake a well-

Support for

Seniors.

stocked but remote country property as well as a considerable sum of money.

The setting is beautiful, but there are no modern trappings. Jake will have to do without internet, phone, radio and television. As in all villages, particularly isolated communities, there are many buried secrets and long standing feuds and friendships; a newcomer must tread carefully.

A decade-old local murder case comes to Jake’s attention, and becomes a dangerous obsession, taking him into the darkest parts of this seemingly idyllic village. Jake is a wonderful character, and I hope to meet him again in another book from this debut author.

THE EDGE OF MADNESS

By Michael Dobbs

Reviewed by John Kleinschmidt

MICHAEL Dobbs is very accomplished, with a PhD in nuclear defence studies, advisor to Margaret Thatcher and acclaimed as a “masterful political operator”. The author of The House of Cards and several other political thrillers, Dobbs uses historical events as the framework for his novels.

The theme of this book is cyber warfare – China vs the US, UK and Russia, a theme that will likely become hugely popular in coming years. The idea is good as it is certainly no stretch to believe that those who control the cyber world would hold the power.

Unlike most of his other work though, this book disappointed. Hero Harry Jones and all main characters appear neutered of any abilities and the plot does not keep the reader on edge. A long way from his best work.

By Mikki Brammer

COMPUTER, TV, IPAD, PHONES, SECURITY + MORE

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Edin was really impressive. I am very happy with his work and would wholeheartedly recommend him.

By Karen Brooks

Reviewed by Lea Dodd

FOLLOWING on from The Good Wife of Bath, Karen Brooks has presented us with another fascinating historical story based around events of the 1600s. She introduces the character of the independent Tribulation Johnson but also has the real historical figure, the outspoken

Security, Independence & Peace of Mind

Providing privacy and independence with the security of proximity to family. Glendale Granny Cabins provide comfortable, self contained accommodation for elderly relatives on the same site as the family home.

Reviewed

by

Graeme Bowden

THIS is an absolutely delightful book. Mikki is an Australian currently living in New York City, which explains the setting for the book.

Clover’s parents died when she was very young and she was raised, lovingly, by her grandfather. After his death, she lived alone, generally content but with few close friends.

Clover is in her mid-30s and works as a “death doula” a term I was not familiar with but means she helps and gives comfort to those nearing the end of their lives.

This does sound a bit morbid, yet this book is anything but that. I did not want this story to end and I am sure you will love Clover, Sylvie, Hugo and all the other wonderful characters in this book.

THE ESCAPADES OF TRIBULATION JOHNSON

Aphra Behn, one of the first women to earn a living writing.

Cast out of her family by her puritan vicar father, Tribulation lands on the doorstep of her cousin Aphra and into a world of opulence and theatre in London. Here she discovers intrigue and danger, and even love. But most of all she finds a mentor in Aphra to become a writer and rise above the constraints of a male-dominated society.

Brooks’ attention to the period in her research and memorable prose will keep you captivated to the end.

TRIVIA

PUZZLESOLUTIONS

2. The indefinite mathematical quantity, 3.14159 is usually known as what Greek letter?

3. What is the medical name for clouding of the eye lens?

4. Helium, neon, argon and krypton are part of what group of the periodic table?

5. For what type of structure is Jodrell Bank in England renowned?

6. What was the German currency immediately before the euro?

7. Which Eastern state capital of Australia is the last to celebrate midnight on New Year’s Eve?

8. What shape was the main wing of the Concorde supersonic aircraft?

9. Which Australian boxer was known as the Marrickville Mauler?

10. What anagram of “cold” can be a lump of clay?

11. What is the highest denomination Australian banknote in general circulation?

12. What type of tree is on the wrapper of a Bounty chocolate bar?

13. What is the third month of our calendar in alphabetical order?

14. Who was lead singer of the Boomtown Rats?

15. In the Bible, what substance is called “brimstone”?

16. What would normally be done with a zither?

17. Who was First Lady of the USA immediately before Jill Biden?

18. In what war was the Victoria Cross first awarded for bravery?

19. What punctuation mark consists of a dot above a comma?

20. In secondary education, what does the “E” stand for in STEM?

1. Wendy; 2. Pi; 3. Cataracts; 4. Noble or inert gases; 5. Radio telescope; 6. Deutsche Mark; 7. Brisbane;

SENIOR COACH TOURS

HERVEY BAY WHALE WATCHING, MARY VALLEY RATTLER, AUSTRALIA ZOO

Tour Highlights:

Australia Zoo, Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise, Mary Valley Rattler Heritage Railway, Childers tour – Old Pharmacy Heritage Centre, Brennan and Geraghty’s Store Museum.

FARE INCLUSIONS:

• Accommodation

• Breakfast + Dinner Daily

• All tour admission fees

• All included tours

HOME PICKUP AND RETURN:

Brisbane, Redcliffe, Redlands, Ipswich, Gold Coast, Tweed Heads, Sunshine Coast, Bribie Island, Caboolture.

4 DAY TOUR: 31st August to 3rd September, 2023

TOUR BROCHURE

CRYPTICCROSSWORD WORDFIND 541362897 493678125 156734289 278519643 685921374 837296451 369847512 712453968 924185736 SUDOKU(MEDIUM) 572361498 683195724 194836572 349582167 921748653 268957341 816479235 457623819 735214986 SUDOKU(EASY) QUICKCROSSWORD 9-LETTERWORD

Tour Highlights:

Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay, International Flower & Garden Show, MCG tour, Ballarat Botanical Garden – Bergonia display at the Conservatory, Marble statues, Tram Museum and train ride, Echuca Murray River Paddlesteamer morning tea cruise.

FARE INCLUSIONS:

• Motel Accommodation

• All Breakfast and Dinners

• All Admissions & Touring

HOME PICKUP AND RETURN:

13 DAY TOUR: 16th March to 28th March, 2024

SINGLE

$3,550 p.p. (inc. GST) twin share

SINGLE

PH: 07 5530 2363 OR 0419 668 311

1. Who was Peter Pan’s female friend?

8. Delta; 9. Jeff Fenech; 10. Clod; 11. $100; 12. Palm tree; 13. December; 14. Bob Geldof; 15. Sulphur;

16. Play it (musical instrument); 17. Melania Trump; 18. Crimean War; 19. Semicolon; 20. Engineering.

With Quizmaster Allan Blackburn

Across

1 Wave given by amateur English footballer(7)

5 User prepared the writer’s summary(6)

9 Piece of precious metal found behind home(5)

10 Broken ducts closed with protective jacket(4,5)

11 Cheese standard, say, largely accepted by people(8)

12 Harmless bullets left in secure buildings(6)

13 Record number written by Tommy Emmanuel originally(4)

14 Supplement research to understand receiver(9)

17 Heroism shown by sergeants undergoing redeployment(9)

18 Vehicles are mostly parked in vacated centres(4)

20 Large duck eaten by such an ungainly person(6)

21 One backing Football Association attracts losers(8)

24 Criminal’s genetic material conveyed by one out to it(9)

25 Present-day generation’s proverb(5)

26 Hungry horse devouring half of feed(6)

27 Abridged contract annoying person is most profound(7)

Down

1 BMW’s first flexible air-bag(5)

2 Smoker’s great ethic upset senior(9,6)

3 Professional killers turned them in(6)

4 Mother, not able to hear one, grimaced(4,1,4)

5 Wine increased in price(4)

6 “Locals Murdered”, journalist alleged(2-6)

7 A miss, overacting, tripped up escalator(6,9)

8 Caught hasty people breaking machines(8)

13 Sodium gas, released by a kid, cut off large Japanese city(8)

15 Detective, especially before broadcast, lost hope(9)

16 Standard notice on front of electric fence(8)

19 Cut through stick(6)

22 Perfume is going up after the first of April(5)

23 Active agent found on banks of river(4)

WORDFIND

TOUR! 2024 was booked out as of May 2023 with 2 coaches attending.

QUICK CROSSWORD

No. 3700

9-LETTER WORD

F I

No. 072

Today’s Aim:

I U E Q A

14 words: Good

22 words: Very good

34 words: Excellent L D

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

WORDSTEP

8 The outstanding features to be seen on a visit (6)

14 Terrible beating (9)

15 – the Great, Prussian King (1712-1786) (9)

16 Advantageously (8)

18 A region in southern Japan (7)

20 Snobby (7)

21 Barbers (6)

23 Melody (5)

24 A language spoken in India (5)

Every row, column and 3x3 outlined square must contain the numbers 1 to 9 once each.

No. 072

Complete the list by changing one letter at a time to create a new word at each step. One possible answer shown below.

SCARF JOCKS

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2016 Hyundai Veloster FS5

2018 Nissan Qashqai 2021 Mazda CX-5

2016 Holden ClubSport 2022 Land Rover Defender

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