Legacy of love
How would you like to be remembered? Will a memorial trophy in your honour highlight your lifetime contribution to a sports club?
Will your children and loved ones give their appreciation in your eulogy for the kind words of encouragement, the sage advice, the plentiful hugs and kisses?
Will colleagues from your profession, trade or business raise a toast and exchange anecdotes about your work ethic, your office idiosyncrasies and those hilarious Christmas party dance moves?
Will neighbours fondly remember the hours spent tending your rose garden, the best scones in the agricultural show or the handcrafted outdoor table you made from scrap timber? Will universities applaud your research, captains of industry refer to your tenacity, and TED Talks speak to your ingenious technology?
The truth is, we have no real control over how we will be remembered and how our life will be viewed once we pass.
The best we can hope for is to be satisfied in ourselves that we have left this world a better place for having been in it. But there is a way to bolster the legacy
we leave behind and feel much better about ourselves in the process: by leaving a bequest in our will.
In this month’s cover story, Richard O’Leary reports that, increasingly, Australians are looking beyond leaving inheritances for immediate family and friends. In fact, a ‘quiet revolution’ is taking place, with more and more Aussies choosing to make contributions to charities as part of their legal wills.
And you don’t have to fund a new wing at a university to be part of that revolution. From hospital charities and medical research foundations to animal shelters and gifts to ease world hunger, bequests can be small or sizeable, benefit one or many, be local or far-reaching.
Knowing that we have made a difference in the lives of those who need it most, changed someone’s future, funded a life-saving study, or just upgraded tiredlooking equipment at the local cricket club may be all it takes. Turn to page 4, and to our Leaving a Gift feature from page 27.
And in this month’s travel pages, Leonie Jarrett is left in shock and awe after cruising into waters surrounding our closest neighbour: Papua New Guinea. It’s a bumper 48-page edition this month, so grab a cuppa and settle in for a big read.
Shi rley Sinclai r Editor
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RICHARD O’LEARY lo oks at the huge and far-reaching b enefits to thousands that can c ome from leaving a b e quest to a charity, ensuring that your legacy lives on long after you are gone.
By any financial measure, Australia is a rich nation. That’s why the transition of that wealth over the c oming de cades is s o imp ortant to the future of our c ountry
Total inheritanc es were ab out $150 billion last year and are exp e cte d to b e $5.4 trillion over the next 20 years, with ab out half of that to b e transferre d from baby b o omers to their children.
But an increasing numb er of Australians are lo oking b eyond just imme diate family and friends.
Be quests are b e c oming a talking p oint among many families.
Some p e ople are even c onsidering “b e quests b efore you go” donations.
This allows them to enjoy s e eing the b enefits of their generosity.
It’s a quiet revolution that repres ents a major cultural shift in this c ountry, which has traditionally traile d other rich nations when it c omes to charity c ontributions. Re c ent studies show a ris e in b oth the fre quency and total value of b e quests.
Online will prov ider G athere d Here analys e d more than 36,000 wills written b etwe en Novemb er 2020 and O ctob er 2023. The res earch showe d 18 p er c ent of the wills include d charitable gifts – up from 6.5 p er c ent in 2014.
Financially, the Include a Charity campaign rep orte d a 20 p er c ent
X-Ray & Imaging is now operating as Sunshine Coast Radiology, providing 13 locations across the Coast.
EVERY hour is pre cious for 72-year-old Merryl Berry.
The Twin Waters lo cal was diagnos e d with mes othelioma twoand-a-half years ago, after a v isit to the do ctor for a s ore shoulder turne d into a nightmare of hospital v isits, tests and heartache.
increas e in gifts in wills inc ome over the past five years.
BY THE numb e rs
Donations – Australia versus the rest of the world
WHEN evaluating donations as a p erc entage of GDP, Australia stands at 0.81 p er c ent. This is lower than:
• Unite d States (2019): 2.1 p er c ent
• New Zealand (2018): 1.84 p er c ent
• C anada (2013): 1 p er c ent
• Unite d Kingdom (2018): 0.96 p er c ent.
She was originally given b etwe en six months and two years to live, but she told her do ctor that that was not enough time.
“It’s a strange fe eling b e caus e I don’t fe el like I’m going to die,” Merryl says.
“ We’ll make plans for Christmas, and I try not to think that I mightn’t b e here.
“I’m trying not to have that as part of my s c enario.”
Your T ime met Merryl at the Wishlist Centre in B irtinya, s o that after the interv iew, she c ould walk over to the Sunshine Coast University Hospital to get her results following a sixth round of chemotherapy
“Chemo – it’s what I hate,” Merryl says. “The chemo really kno cks you ab out.
“That’s why my eyes water.
“I get mouth ulc ers. I get really sick, really mis erable, and then you slowly crawl out of it.”
For our dis cussion, Merryl is ac c ompanie d by her 80-year-old husband E d.
He do esn’t just give her love and supp ort, but als o prov ides adde d inc entive to s que eze every minute out of every day
“ We will b e marrie d 50 years, not this Christmas, but next Christmas,” Merryl says.
“I am lucky I’ve got a ro ck.
“I’m not really frightene d if I do happ en to drop off the p erch.
“I’m not particularly frightene d ab out that, but I would b e worrie d leav ing him after 50 years.”
Merryl is als o c onc erne d ab out making the most of the time she has left.
She tells the story of s e eing a billb oard outside a church which simply read, “Is this world b etter with you or without you?”.
After much s oul s earching, she answere d that question with a significant donation to Wishlist, s o the Rare C anc er C are and Res earch Fund can find ways to improve treatment and prolong life for mes othelioma patients.
Ass o ciate Profess or Dr Bryan Chan, Merryl’s onc ologist, says the donation will help res earch to unlo ck the s e crets of mes othelioma “to identify if there are triggering things in the microbiome that lead to mes othelioma, or s e e if there are things we can manipulate to help improve treatment and outc omes”
“ We’re lo oking at trying to stop p e ople from dying within six to 12 months, which was the traditional prognosis,” Dr Chan says.
Mes othelioma, s ometimes referre d to as ‘mes o’, is a canc er most often caus e d by asb estos, which affe cts the smo oth lining of the chest, lungs, heart and ab domen.
The layer of tissue surrounding thes e organs is made up of mes othelial c ells, henc e the name.
Australia had one of the highest p er capita us es of asb estos in the world until it was banne d in 2003, but 700 to 800 new cas es of mes othelioma are still diagnos e d annually in this c ountry
“We’re looking at trying to stop people from dying within six to 12 months”
Dr B ryan C han, oncologist
Many cas es are linke d to o c cupational exp osure, which made Merryl’s diagnosis c onfusing, b e caus e she’d b e en a teacher all her life. Most of her care er was sp ent at Buderim Mountain State Scho ol.
“The thing ab out mes othelioma is,
everyb o dy you talk to will say, ‘Oh, ge e, I us e d to play with asb estos as a kid’,” she says.
“I never, ever did any of thos e things. “ We’re not builders. We’re not kno cking down walls.
“I was a teacher and I sp ent a lot of time in demountables.
“That was the only thing that they c ould c ome up with.
“That’s where the asb estos was.”
Initially, Merryl was reluctant to talk ab out her story
She didn’t want to make a fuss ab out her large donation, and c ertainly didn’t want to draw attention to hers elf
But Jan Long, with whom she job share d at Buderim s cho ol, happ ene d to b e a long-time supp orter of Wishlist and enc ourage d her friend to sp eak up and enc ourage others to donate.
Merryl had this adv ic e for others: “If you can do s omething to make the world b etter, then you should try and do it.”
With thos e words, Merryl sto o d up and, with her husband by her side, walke d over to the Sunshine Coast University Hospital to get her results.
The news was as go o d as she c ould hop e for: her canc er had not progress e d, which means she gets a thre e-month rest from chemo and all that go es with it.
While she enjoys the time with family and friends, Ass o ciate Profess or Chan and his c olleagues will b e busy working on advancing treatment options to improve quality of life and surv ival for mes othelioma, giv ing hop e to the thousands of Australians who are exp e cte d to b e diagnos e d with the canc er in the c oming years.
And while all that work is happ ening, Merryl will b e inching clos er to that 50th we dding anniversary
Turn to page 27 for our Leaving a Gift bequests feature.
A
HISTORY OF giving
WISHLIST, a hospital charity, has rais e d $23 million sinc e it was establishe d in 1998 to supp ort the health ne e ds of patients and families on the Sunshine Coast and Gympie region.
Its most re c ent fundrais er, Wishlist Giving Day, will help pay for a biplane unit which will save lives, and improve the quality of life for stroke survivors.
It will allow do ctors to remove a clot and imme diately restore blo o d flow to the brain.
Wishlist CEO Brendan Hogan says the p e ople of the Sunshine and Gympie are the most generous in the world and that “we are s o grateful they help us to help others”
“ We appre ciate every donation, big or small – they all make a big differenc e to health care in this region,” he says.
Wishl is t is happy t o talk w ith a nyone ab out a donat ion or a b e quest. Its lates t camp aig n asks p e opl e t o b e c ome a GEM a nd ‘G ive Each Month’ Call 5202 1777 or go t o w ishl is t.org.au
Brendan Hogan
What’s
What to b o ok
NATALIE Bassingthwaighte stars in a career-defining role when the joyous, life-affirming comedy Shirle y Valent ine heads to Brisbane’s Twelfth Night Theatre, from October 29-November 8. Bassingthwaighte – known for her versatility spanning film (Elvis), television (Neighbours, Underb elly, X-Factor) and stage (Chicago, Jagged Lit tle Pill) – promises to deliver a fresh, dynamic take on Shirley’s journey, capturing every laugh, tear and moment of courage, bringing Willy Russell’s heartwarming story to vibrant new life. This beloved one-woman play tells of a middle-aged, working-class Liverpool housewife stuck in a life of routine. When a friend invites her on a spontaneous holiday to Greece, Shirley takes a bold leap into the unknown. Book at Ticketek.com.au or call 13 28 49 and v isit shirle y valent ine.com.au
Reminis c e ab out …
THEY created some of the pop anthems of our time: Mrs Brow n You Got A Lovely Daughter, No Milk Today, There’s A Kind Of Hush and I’m Into Something Good. Herman’s Hermits became one of the best-selling bands in the history of the ‘British Invasion’. And they celebrate an incredible milestone on their 60th Anniversary World Tour in 2025. Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone is the sound of the ’60s and ’70s. The show comes to Kedron-Wavell RSL on Sunday, Aug ust 10, at 3pm (kedron-wavell.com.au/event/hermans-hermits-2025) and The Events Cent re, Caloundra, on Wednesday, Aug ust 6 (the eventscent re.com.au/event/ hermans-hermits).
What to s e e
Back in the day…
HE MAY have been the bane of existence of dean of students ‘Ed’ Rooney (Jeffrey Jones), but Ferris Bueller was a hero to any kid growing up in the 1980s and beyond. Fer ris Bueller’s Day Off was released in US theatres on June 11, 1986, and soon became a cult classic. High school senior Ferris Bueller (Matthew Broderick) decides to skip school by faking an illness, then encourages his girlfriend Sloane (Mia Sara) and pessimistic best friend Cameron (Alan Ruck) to spend the day in Chicago as one last fling before they graduate. The teen comedy was written, co-produced and directed by John Hughes, with supporting roles from Jennifer Grey (before her Dir t y Dancing triumph) and a very young-looking Charlie Sheen.
IT’S one of the world’s unique spectacles, renowned for stirring music, military precision, cultural displays and dramatic performances, set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is set to dazzle Australian audiences when it comes –exclusively and for the first time – to Brisbane in February next year. Suncorp Stadium will host a full-scale production of the Tattoo’s 75th anniversary show, The Heroes Who Made Us, on February 12 and 14, presented by RACQ. It will bring together more than 1000 of the world’s finest performers to showcase traditional Scottish heritage and bold, contemporary choreography, led by the Massed Pipes and Drums from UK Military regiments, and featuring 30 bands and acts from around the world, including fan-favourite Top Secret Drum Corps and performers from the Australian Defence Force. This will be one of its most ambitious international stadium productions to date. Any remaining t ickets are available through Ticketek and edintat toobrisbane.com.au
What music to hear
IT’S silent but fabulous. Queensland Air Museum at Caloundra Airport will host the 80s Silent Disco on Saturday, August 2, in two sessions: 6.30-9pm and 9.30pm-midnight. If you are old enough to remember the likes of Brisbane’s Apples Disco in the National Hotel, Tracks Nightclub at the City Plaza Tavern and The New York Hotel, or perhaps Surfair at Marcoola, Chifleys and Galaxy Nightclub at Stewarts Alexandra Headland, this might be for you. After selling out more than 250 shows across the world, the 80s Silent Disco will be held among all the amazing historic aircraft. Expect three DJs playing all your favourite ’80s tunes. Register at 80s-silent-disco-qldairmuseum.kickoffpages.com
Retiree GARRY REYNOLDS shares his thoughts on the world around us.
TEACHER BURNOUT IS REAL
A REPORT by the Black Dog Institute says that half of Australia’s teachers are c onsidering leav ing the profession within the next 12 months, due to burnout.
Teachers are working longer hours with fewer res ourc es to me et increasing c ommunity and parental exp e ctations. More and more are taking time off for mental health.
In exc ess of 50 p er c ent of teachers rep ort mo derate to extremely s evere symptoms of depression, c ompare d with 12 p er c ent in the general p opulation.
I was a NSW state high s cho ol teacher for 18 years from the 1970s through to the ’90s. I found it an enjoyable and highly rewarding profession, esp e cially s erv ing the c ommunity of my rural hometown.
Res earch on teaching c onditions in the past puts current c ommunity exp e ctations into c ontext.
The rules for NSW state s cho ol
teachers in the 1800s state d that each day the teacher had to fill lamps, clean chimneys, bring a bucket of water and a s cuttle of c oal.
Male teachers c ould take one evening a we ek for c ourting purp os es, or two evenings if they attende d church regularly
It was state d that any teacher who smoke d, c onsume d liquor, fre quente d p o ol or public halls and had a shave in a barb er shop “would give go o d reas on to susp e ct his worth, intention, integrity and honesty”
After sp ending 10 hours in s cho ol, teachers were told, “ You may sp end the remaining time reading the B ible or other go o d b o oks.”
Female teachers were instructe d: “If you marry or engage in uns e emly c onduct, you will b e dismiss e d.”
This was fertile ground for the town busyb o dies.
When I retire d in 1992, I c ould s e e the pressures building.
I c ould not do the job to day, despite the great ne e d to help students, families and our nation through improve d e ducation.
The b est pathways to achieve this are c ontentious, but the ories are like to othbrushes: everyb o dy has their own and nob o dy wants to us e anyb o dy els e’s.
A time when loc al women had the rag trade all stitched up
AUDIENNE BLYTH lo oks back at an era when clothing factories in Namb our and Kulango or were b o oming hubs of pro ductivity.
There was a time when Australia had rationing of basic needs. Rationing of clothing, sugar, tea, butter and meat was part of government restrictions in World War II (1939-45).
The war effort was vital. As well, the government wished to decentralise industries, and the Nambour Chamber of Commerce lobbied for a clothing factory
Alf Frost owned a clothing factory in Brisbane and was willing to set up one in Nambour in 1944.
His first factory opened next to the Diggers’ Hall in Howard Street where he expected to employ up to 10 girls.
His Brisbane contracts were for army clothing and he expected to continue with ‘wholesale-only’ contracts in Nambour
He was prepared to train staff to operate the machines. The factory would be a great asset to Nambour.
The following year, he opened a new factory in Ann Street, described as a two-storey building: 50’ x 30’ (15.2 x 9.1m).
The local newspaper reported that dignitaries from the council and town were among guests who danced the night
away in the poinsettia-decorated building.
Advertisements for staff were placed in the Namb our Chronicle: “Wanted: 15-20 girls from 14-18 years to learn the clothing trade. No experience. Good wages: £1 to start with. Music while you work.”
The factory again relocated, to a building that is now the RSL car park.
Advertisements in the late 1940s show that the factory would do hemstitching, make buttonholes and undertake embroidery
George Parmenter, an employee, advertised that he would service home sewing machines. These tasks were a boon to the home dressmaker
In the late 1950s, the clothing factory was sold to Mr Parmenter, who relocated it to Kulangoor. Many young women who worked there are still able to recall their workmates, who became lifelong friends.
They can also recall their experiences (24 worked at the Ann Street factory and about 50 at the Kulangoor factory).
Dianne worked at the Kulangoor clothing factory from when she left school at 15 in 1962. Her family lived on the
Maroochy River. So, she boarded in Yandina and travelled by bus each day to work.
She says the fabrics arrived from Brisbane already cut out and ready to sew New girls learned to trim threads and do clippings and then moved on to specialist jobs such as inserting side pockets. All sizes of work shorts with the Yakka brand were made and Dianne thought the work was boring, the factory grubby and the wages poor.
June has many memories of the Kulangoor clothing factory. She began work there in 1970. The factory closed in 1975 because the Australian government lifted the tariffs on Chinese imports. Staff who lost their jobs were paid 12 months of wages in advance. She was one of the lucky ones to receive this. At the time, the factory was producing Stubbies clothing.
“I was asked to return to work after 12
months as they were preparing to make women’s clothing but I refused as I was planning a family,” June says. “An older staff member, known as ‘Weedy’, used to hold bridal showers for the girls getting married. Two of the owners’ sons married girls who worked at the factory. Brian married Hilda and Kevin married Heather.” June recorded the names of the female staff with their married names – now the grandmothers and great-grandmothers we may see around Nambour.
The Kulangoor clothing factory was next to the old garage. After it closed, it became a morgue and funeral chapel, then a winery and an op shop. It burnt down in January 2024. The caved-in roof can still be seen from Nambour Connection Road.
Audienne Blyth is a member of the Nambour Historical Museum, open 1-4pm Wednesdays to Fridays, and 10am-3pm Saturdays.
Nambour Clothing Factory staff and manager (on left), 1950s. Image: Nambour Museum
LAURIE ‘ WAVES THE BAT’ AS HE HITS HIS CENTURY
OVER the c ours e of his long life, C aloundra’s Lawrenc e (Laurie) Stevens has taken on new challenges – from running a restaurant on the Yarra River in Victoria to an ic e-skating rink at Que ensland’s Airlie Beach.
His latest has b e en c elebrating his 100th birthday with family and friends at his home at Bolton Clarke Centaur Memorial.
“I was b orn on the 8th May in a small town calle d Murtoa in Victoria and I live d there all my life until I went into the Army
when I was 18,” Laurie says.
“I left s cho ol early to find a job and b e caus e it’s a little town, they held exams in the region for kids to get a handful of jobs.
“I was lucky that I topp e d thos e tests and got a job in the p ost offic e, but then the war broke out and I got c ons cripte d into the Army in 1943.”
Making his way to Dubb o for training was a step outside his c omfort zone as it was a big city c ompare d with his smalltown home.
“Before joining the Army, I
hadn’t had much of a s o cial life and I had strict parents – church every Sunday and hadn’t touche d b e er ever.
“So, for me, it was the first time I had b e en in a big city and I had to make friends.”
Eventually, Laurie was transferre d to the 2nd New Guinea Infantry Battalion b efore b e c oming unwell and b eing dis charge d.
“After that, I trie d my hand at many jobs: I owne d a restaurant on the Yarra, then s old vacuums for a while and air purifiers.
“Later, we move d up to Airlie Beach and ran a skating rink and then I move d down to the Sunshine Coast and starte d my own business in real estate.”
His interest in real estate has remaine d strong and is still his top care er re c ommendation.
“ When you turn 16, you should b e c ome a real estate agent b e caus e I would say it’s the easiest way to b e c ome a millionaire,” he says.
“I als o think you have to lo ok on the bright side of everything, no matter what happ ens.
“It’s often not that bad, really, and there is always s ome one wors e off.”
A POEM FOR THE AGES
K E EN po e t Pat Atk inson, of Kiels Mountain, has se nt
Your T ime re ade rs this gem ab out informat ion gathe r ing in the mode r n a ge.
THE JOYS OF G O O G LE
COULD I do without Go ogle, my wonderful friend
Even though it emb o dies a frightening trend.
To find facts in past times to libraries we went
To encyclopae dias and volumes, s o much time we sp ent.
But now with a keystroke you can find any answer
From fo o d fads at the Kremlin to who was Mao’s Las t Da nc e r .
Are there bird-eating spiders in Oz? Yes there are.
How long would it take us to get to that star?
A me dical question, we can tell you the lot,
Including dis eas es you didn’t know you’d got.
At your fingertips more facts than you’d ever ne e d to know
And along with the
answers, advertis ements go.
The things that you’ve Go ogle d in months that have gone
Have c ome back to haunt you: they app ear one by one.
Do you want a new lightbulb. a bikini, a hat,
A pair of pink leggings that make you lo ok fat?
Every item you’ve Go ogle d c omes back like a phantom
To haunt from your desktop all thos e items at random
That onc e in your lifetime you Go ogle d s o idly
They’ve s ettle d for ever and no matter how wildly
You eras e them and s end them to heaven knows where
You know that the next time, they still will b e there.
Copy r ight: Pat Atk inson 2024
• Reception and Sales Office on site
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• Dedicated Craft Hall with BBQ area
• Bowling Green and Pool Room
• Modern Community Centre
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• Walking distance to Translink Bus for transport to medical centres, shopping centres Make an appointment to visit Kookaburra Village to view these great value pre-loved homes and have a look at the amazing gardens and facilities on offer.
Laurie Stevens (right) with his late brother David Siegle; and as a young soldier
Life in the slow lane
By Mo c co Wolle r t
SOME p e ople like zo os. Some p e ople hate them.
Do we actually ne e d zo os?
I have s e en s ome of the b est and s ome of the worst.
The worst was the zo o in Nepal.
After finishing our trek in the mountains, our sherpa was very eager to show us the Katmandu Zo o. He was very proud of it.
We had b e c ome very clos e with our trekking team and did not want to disapp oint him.
The zo o was a nightmare! I had to ke ep a strong grip on mys elf not to burst into tears.
There was obviously no money and the whole zo o was dirty and p o orly maintaine d.
A huge b ear was c onfine d in a small iron cage. He was c overe d in s ores and sat deje cte d in a dark c orner
The lion pac e d the small distanc e in his cage restlessly. He, to o, was c overe d in s ores.
In c ontrast, the fabulous zo o in Seattle was a joy to visit.
The animals are in ‘enclosures’ that res emble their real habitat as clos ely as p ossible.
Their bre e ding programs are making a true c ontribution to maintaining endangere d sp e cies.
Bre e ding endangere d sp e cies is a large part of any well-run and well-maintaine d zo o.
Is there any value in that?
We all would love to s e e tigers, elephants and gorillas in their natural habitat in Africa, but how many of us are able to travel there?
It means endless hours in an aircraft, a lot of money and no guarante e that you will s e e the animal.
The bre e ding programs are not only for us to s e e the animals but, more imp ortantly, to stop a sp e cies from b e c oming extinct.
One question that puzzles me is: are animals like us or are we like the animals?
Watching chimpanze es, that question is particularly relevant. They b ehave very much like us with their s quabbles and how they build families.
Or are we b ehaving like them?
The differenc e is, though, that the leader of a family of animals rules his or her tro op with an iron fist. The matriarch of a group of
elephants is in charge. Full stop.
In s ome human cultures, the matriarchs are still ruling ‘the trib e’ Mayb e we are just another animal, but higher evolve d.
My favourite animal is the me ercat with its ‘b opping’ up and down. I als o love the big ap es and glorious lions and tigers.
I am not much for reptiles or birds, although I am fas cinate d by 100-year-old turtles. Mayb e it’s b e caus e I am heading that way
I have a ‘mini zo o’ in my garden: two metal magpies, a small stone statue of a me ercat and a ‘me ditating’ frog. I am often tempte d to add more but don’t want to des c end into kits ch.
Long gone are the times when garden b e ds were crowde d with c olourful garden gnomes.
Many p e ople have strong opinions ab out ‘incarc erating’ animals. My friend Lexie hates zo os. Another friend told me that Australia Zo o was okay but should only ke ep native Australian animals.
As zo os are the only plac es where children can s e e rare and exotic animals, mayb e we should b e glad that we still have s ome in the world.
May you get the chanc e to visit wild animals in happy surroundings. Email mocco.wollert@bigpond.com
MY LATEST backyard project turned into one of those ‘bit off more than I can chew’ situations, which happens more than I care to admit.
I dubbed it: ‘The Great Wall’ project. Next time, instead of DIY, I might try ESE (Employ Someone Else).
Sections of the garden wall had taken on a precarious lean over the years.
The garden was well established when we moved to the house and I guessed that the root systems of the plants were planning an escape. They were attempting to push their way out and it looked like they were succeeding.
Originally, I feared the wall would collapse completely, but when I started to dismantle the blockwork, I found that: 1. The wall probably had years of life left and 2. Concrete is very hard and heavy
However, once I started demolishing, I quickly reached the point of no return and I had to keep going.
There were sections of the 40-year-old retaining wall that I deemed straight enough to stay and I planned to only rebuild the bits that really needed it.
Unfortunately, the original wall builder had used the Doomsday Seed Vault building code.
Some of the base blocks were rooted to the very
core of the Earth and nothing short of explosives would move them, much less the efforts of this scrawny grandmother and her crowbar
However, I expect TNT use is frowned upon by the local council and unlikely that even Aldi would stock it.
I haven’t been to the Great Wall of China, but in my mind, I was building the equivalent.
Sure, the Chinese version is over 20,000km long compared with the width of my backyard of several metres. But as the weeks passed, I felt like the timeline of the project might be similar.
When it comes to recycling, I try to do my bit. So, I thought I’d save the planet by reusing most of the original blocks.
It may have been only three blocks high but it took some time (and patience) to chip off every bit of old mortar and clean the blocks to make them usable.
Then, there was the soil behind the wall, which I had to shift so that I could return it to the garden when and if this
project was ever completed. Rainy weather made the dirt soft and diggable, which was helpful, but I looked like I’d had visited a mud spa.
When a pot plant outgrows its pot, it can become root bound. Behind my wall, there was such a tangle of roots that there wasn’t a lot of soil to be found.
In short, I had a gigantic root ball or I could call it a ‘root rectangle’. Out came more tools as I hacked away like Indiana Jones in the jungle.
Eventually, I was ready to start the rebuild.
Slowly but surely, I turned it back into a wall.
With some online searching, I sourced some capping bricks to replace those which didn’t survive the demolition.
So many years after the original build, these bricks were not the right colour, but some paint fixed that.
It’s more proof that renovation projects can be bigger than expected and those TV programs that magically reveal the job perfectly done and dusted within an hour might be a teeny bit exaggerated.
I’m not a builder and, if anyone asks, I’ll say I went for the rustic look on purpose, but the job is done.
I’m hoping it will be many years before the plants outgrow their surroundings because I’m hanging up the DIY boots … at least until my next crazy, big idea. Visit lockwoodfreelance.com
exciting opportunity awaits at Sunset Palms Retirement Living. Driven by exceptional demand, our latest collection of brand-new villas is now available - giving you the chance to call this vibrant, boutique community home. Discover the ultimate Sunshine Coast retirement lifestyle, with low-maintenance living and resort-style facilities on your doorstep.
Make a plan for what happens to your digital life when you’re gone
EDIN READ knows it’s a difficult topic to dis cuss but outlines why a truste d p ers on should take charge of your passwords and s o cial me dia after you pass. down, recover important information or preserve the things you’d want saved.
Most of us are go o d at s orting out the big-ticket items for when we pass – our wills, hous es and who gets the go o d cro ckery
But s omething els e is quietly building b ehind the s c enes: our digital life. Emails, bank ac c ounts, Fac eb o ok profiles, photos in the cloud, subs criptions we’ve forgotten ab out … they all live on unless we de cide what should happ en to them.
It’s not the easiest topic to discuss, I’ll admit. But it’s one I’m raising because I’ve seen first-hand how distressing and complicated it can be for families left to untangle a loved one’s digital life. Planning for it doesn’t mean something bad is around the corner. It simply means you’re making life that little bit easier for the people who matter to you.
Let’s start with the practical stuff. The average person these days has dozens of accounts: email, MyGov, online banking, photo storage, Facebook, maybe a few streaming services, too. If no one knows your login details, even getting into these accounts can be a challenge. And without access, your loved ones can’t shut them
So, what can you do now?
My advice is to create a simple, secure record of your important digital accounts. I recommend a handwritten password book, stored somewhere private and safe – ideally, one account per page with clear labels and space for updates.
You could even put this in a locked section of your will.
You don’t have to share it right away, but it helps to tell a trusted person where it’s kept. Think of it as a spare key to your digital world.
Next, it’s worth looking at some of the tools already built into the services you use. For example, Apple offers something called a legacy contact. You can nominate someone you trust, and when the time comes, they’ll be able to request access to your photos, notes and device backups. It’s all handled through your Apple ID settings. Google has something similar called the Inactive Account Manager. You decide when your account should be considered inactive (say, after six months of no
activity) and who should be notified. They can then download emails, photos and documents if you allow it.
Facebook also has options: you can set your account to be memorialised, which locks it down and adds a ‘Remembering’ banner, or you can appoint a legacy contact to manage the page. This person can post a final message, respond to friend requests, and seek account removal if needed.
Now, a gentle but important note: not everything has to be saved. Part of digital legacy planning is also deciding what you don’t want passed on.
That might be private messages, sensitive files or emails that were only ever meant for you. It’s entirely your right to delete or tidy up as you see fit.
A digital spring clean, you could say
The point of all this isn’t to scare or overwhelm. It’s to bring peace of mind. Your digital life is part of your legacy, just like your family photos or treasured letters. Taking a few simple steps now means the people you care about won’t have to guess what you wanted, or struggle through complicated systems at a difficult time.
Greyology can help guide you through the process – whether it’s setting up legacy contacts, organising a password system or simply understanding what options are available.
Edin Read is founder and chief technician at Greyology Tech Support for Seniors. Visit greyology.com.au
Shillings, Six Pences, Three
JEWELLERY
You’re invited
Open Home Showcase
Join us for the GemLife Highfields Heights Open Home Showcase on Saturday, 12 July 2025, and step into three beautifully styled display homes – the first to be unveiled at this exceptional new over-50s lifestyle resort.
Set among rolling hills and surrounded by nature, GemLife Highfields Heights offers a lifestyle inspired by the beauty of the High Country, with breathtaking views of the Bunya and Gowrie mountains.
This is your chance to experience the quality, elegance and liveability of GemLife’s newest resort homes – and get a feel for the relaxed, resort-style living that awaits.
DATE Saturday, 12 July 2025
TIME 10am to 12:30pm
WHERE GemLife Highfields Heights 108 Woolmer Road, Highfields
RSVP Register online by Thursday, 10 July at GemLife.com.au/ghhopen
Motorists spoilt for choice today with Mazda’s range of SUVs
BRUCE McMAHON notes the premium quality of the CX range, but wonders whether it’s a cas e of b eing ‘to o clever by half ’ .
There app ears to b e a little unne c essary cleverness to Mazda’s line-up of sp ort utility vehicles (SUVs) thes e days.
The Mazda range of SUVs was once pretty simple: the CX-9 and CX-7 were big brothers to the CX-5 and the compact CX-3.
Today, there’s seven of them – CX-3, CX-30, CX-5, CX-60, CX-70, CX-80 and CX-90 – with some overlap here and there.
The five-seat CX-70 and seven-seat CX-90 are the same size, for instance.
And the CX-60, while sporting a narrower body, is not much smaller.
So, plenty of variety – especially when there’s also a choice between power plants. And from big to small, all CX models carry a fair degree of premium style.
For now, it’s off to a petrol-engined, mild-hybrid CX-70, with Inline 6 badge on the front guards.
Straight six-cylinder engines are a little rare in 2025 and this one, with some help from a 48-volt electrical system, pushes out a handy 254kW of power and 500Nm of torque to all four wheels
through an eight-speed transmission.
This is a largish, five metre-long vehicle for a five-seater. That means comfortable space for front and rear seat passengers, plus decent cargo area (though that rear floor is perhaps a tad high with a space-saver tyre and lithium battery tucked below).
An upmarket cabin is well finished with premium materials, good instrumentation and a centre console controller for the 12.3-inch touchscreen (though that takes a day for familiarisation). The steering wheel is cluttered with a myriad buttons for a number of controls.
Visibility to the front and sides is good, with excellent camera work and sensors helping in tight car parks.
The Mazda CX-70 rides on 21-inch rims, filling out the wheel arches and adding subtle muscle to the wagon’s profile.
Yet, while that wheel-tyre combination and the Mazda chassis tune brings firm and positive steering, plus good road manners, there’s a trade-off in ride quality with some jitters on rough
patches of road – bitumen or otherwise.
Low-profile rubber isn’t always family friendly on indifferent surfaces.
This firmish suspension handles big lumps and bumps with ease and adds some sport to Mazda’s SUV, though it’s hard to disguise the CX-70’s bulk (5.1m long by 1.89m wide by 1.74m high by two tonne) when pushing on down a country road. Or under brakes.
For the most part, it is a reasonably engaging machine for a large SUV.
The transmission works quietly and efficiently, plus there are paddle shifters for manual changes.
And while the petrol six-cylinder and electric helper may not have the Mazda leaping away from the lights, once rolling,
the wagon accelerates with some promise.
Fuel consumption around town can close on 10 litres per 100km. Highway economy is more like 9 litres per 100km, the trip computer says.
Pricing for the Mazda CX-70 starts in the high $70,000s – a fair ask for a five-seat family wagon, especially when a seven-seat CX-90 can be had for around the same money.
Yet there’s a premium quality to this vehicle and some will shop it against the likes of similar machines from Audi and Mercedes-Benz.
In fact, tweaking the brakes, steering and performance could turn the sevenseat version of these Mazdas into a value rival to Audi’s sweet SQ7.
T he difference bet ween ‘no pain, no g ain’ and a little discomfor t in exercise
CAITLYN HUTH explains how listening to our b o dies can help us de cide when we can push our b o dies a little further and when we ne e d to stop.
‘Pain during exercis e should b e avoide d’ is a c ommon idea. But if you’re just starting your fitness journey or are dealing with injury flare-ups, this advic e c ould likely prevent your progress.
It’s ess ential to differentiate b etwe en the typ es of dis c omfort you might fe el while exercising.
While it’s crucial to ste er clear of sharp or intens e pain, a c ertain level of dis c omfort can actually b e a sign that your b o dy is adapting and improving.
When you engage in activities that your b o dy isn’t us e d to, it’s normal for it to react s ensitively.
Think of it as your b o dy’s way of saying, “Hey, I ne e d a little more time to get us e d to this”.
This do esn’t mean you should push through every twinge or ache but, rather, it’s ab out learning to listen to what
your b o dy is telling you.
Sometimes, it might just ne e d a bit of extra supp ort or re c overy time.
Instead of adhering to the old ‘no pain, no gain’ minds et, try to reframe your p ersp e ctive.
Dis c omfort can often b e a part of the growth pro c ess.
Rememb er, dis c omfort is not usually a threat. However, if you find yours elf exp eriencing sharp or intens e pain, that’s a different story: it might b e time to evaluate what’s going on.
When pain aris es, think of it
as fe e dback from your b o dy
Ask yours elf questions such as: “Is it actually overwhelming mus cle fatigue, or p erhaps an exc essive stretch or tension?” or “is the load simply to o heavy?”
By understanding thes e signals, you can tailor your workouts to b etter suit your individual ne e ds.
The ultimate goal isn’t to eliminate pain c ompletely but to help your b o dy resp ond in a way that promotes strength and resilienc e.
By facing non-threatening challenges head-on, you’ll gain more c ontrol over your fitness journey, rather than fe eling like you have to throw in the towel at the first sign of dis c omfort.
Embrac e the pro c ess, listen to your b o dy and adapt as you go.
Caitlyn Huth is an exercise physiologist at Full Circle Wellness. Call 5456 1599 or visit fullcirclewellness.com.au
A whole new perspective on EOFY
CHARLIE GRIFFITHS has taken on a new, familiar challenge – something just for himself – and suggests you do the same to find more inner happiness.
Driving across the Hay Plain recently, I rocked on to an old favourite: Garden Par t y by Rick Nelson and the Stone Canyon Band.
Back in 1972, Nelson penned a catchy tune with a poignant message: “You can’t please everyone, so you got to please yourself ”. In the peaceful Sturt Highway environment with no cares (except the road train overtaking another one on a bend a few hundred metres ahead, with my name emblazoned on its bull bar), I thought about why I was there in the first place.
For two years, I had been a slave to compassion: writing a self-help book, studying advanced life-coaching techniques and blogging prolifically in a virtuous attempt to help people who are stuck in a rut. Guess where I was right then? Revving my guts out, spinning my wheels and getting nowhere.
Just before Christmas, I answered a phone call from a former colleague from my irrigation-consulting days, asking if I could help out with a large corporate project. I was apprehensive, since I hadn’t done this work for seven years.
But within 10 minutes on site, I realised that I was back where I belong. My product and process memory was intact, and I loved every aspect of the job. The project concluded successfully and, after a few conversations, I signed on as what can best be described as an internal consultant.
The role embraces so many of my passions, including travel, human and machinery interaction, fresh air, troubleshooting, mentoring and training. I cheekily added that a refreshing point of difference to my previous life is: “All care and no responsibility” – I’m not selling anything and I’m not managing anyone.
But wait, there’s more. I work Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, so every weekend is Easter. And that is as close to retirement as I ever want to get.
The bottom line is that I am in a fulfilling role and loving it. I thought I would have trouble letting go of my coaching pursuits and feel obligated to the significant time and financial investments, but the decision to return to being happy, for myself, came easily
No regrets. No what-ifs. No guilt.
FIT HAPPENS with Tom Law
MOST of you have access to a gymnasium of some sort.
It may be a fully commercial gym that you are a member of, or perhaps it is part of the complex you live in.
At the very least, you would have access to the local council exercise equipment or outside gym somewhere near you.
But, how many of you use your gym on a regular basis?
Some people I talk to say that they have access to equipment but do not always use it.
I have family members who work in waste management and they tell me that they see gym and exercise equipment being disposed of
Maybe you still have some equipment such as an old ‘bull worker’ gathering dust under the bed, cobwebs growing on the treadmill on the veranda and a rusting set of dumbbells that signalled great intent. But the attraction lost its lustre and the equipment was used less and less.
You may be a gym payer but not such a good gym goer, or you
now pass by the council exercise equipment you once used. Today is a good time to start your exercise regime again, if you have let it slip. If you have never exercised, it is also a good time for you to start. Provided you have medical clearance to exercise and any potential restrictions listed and approved by your local GP, there is no reason for you to remain exercise-less.
Go on your computer and check out YouTube. If you are not sure what you can do, go to the library and do research, ask a family member, or spend a few dollars for a professional to do a physical assessment and write an exercise program for you.
You and your body will appreciate being moved.
You have the opportunity to greatly increase your chances of living a better life with some sensible, appropriate, measured and regular exercise in your life.
Tom Law is the author of health and exercise-related books. Visit facebook.com/tomslawtraining or call 0409 274 502.
The only time I look back now is when I’m cruising along a country highway and wonder if there’s a road train behind me, waiting to crush my dreams and smear them for 400 metres along the bitumen.
My June message is based on the acronym headlining every second ad on television this month: EOFY. I hope to see all my readers think seriously about this crucial advice and adopt the mantra: “Everyone Out For Yourself (EOFY)”.
Happiness is an irresistible force that benefits all those who come into contact with it. If you’re truly happy, your loved ones, friends, workmates and teammates will be positively influenced.
Chuck that brave face in the bin and replace it with an inner glow
You don’t have to smile when you’re happy: people will sense it and they’ll
smile for you and themselves. You don’t need a life coach, counsellor or shrink to tell you that it all begins with you. You don’t need mind-blowing strategies to reset your mindset.
You just need to be honest – with yourself first, then those who will be stirred by your inspired demeanour
You may be pleasantly surprised at how little courage you need to face reality and take action when you are convinced of the truth.
Let’s all make an EOFY resolution, and Everybody Look Out For Yourself
If this article resonates with you, I would love to hear from you. Contact me at charliegriffithscoaching.com.
Charlie Griffiths is a certified life coach and Neuro Linguistic Programming practitioner.
FLIPSIDE
Consider the strength of evidence
KAILAS ROBERTS believes that when it comes to brain health, we should all stay informed of recent studies and their level of credibility
When I was at medical school in the Nineties, there were certain subjects that were almost universally disliked.
Chief among these was the module on research, which was guaranteed to induce somnolence or mind wandering.
I must admit, I did not pay it adequate attention at the time, but I now recognise its importance. Many of my patients come to me with questions about a product or intervention about which they had heard great things – from boosting brain performance through to reversing or curing dementia.
For anyone to be able to provide meaningful advice, it is critical to know about the studies that underpin the claims. It is helpful for everyone to know a little about evidence to make informed decisions about their health.
The best level of evidence is level (or class) 1 and arises from studies called randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or an analysis of multiple RCTs (a meta-analysis). These studies compare a group of people randomly given an intervention (for example, a medication or treatment) with a group that is not.
The groups should otherwise be as
similar as possible. In this way, if the outcome is different for the intervention group, you can conclude that the intervention was responsible – that it caused the change.
When it comes to brain health, there are only a few things that have this level of evidence: blood pressure control, treating poor hearing and physical exercise. The pivotal Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (FINGER) trial also counts as level 1 evidence and involved multiple interventions concurrently: diet, exercise, cognitive training and control of vascular (blood supply) risk factors.
Level or class 2 evidence is still reasonable but is derived from lesserquality RCTs and strong so-called cohort studies. In the latter, the intervention may not be randomly allocated to the groups or there may be no specific intervention and people are just recorded as having certain attributes (for example, following a healthy diet) and then followed up to see what happens to them.
If there is a strong correlation (such as those eating a Mediterranean diet are less likely to develop dementia), that might lead you to conclude that one thing causes the
other. The issue is that other variables may have caused the change (for example, those eating a Mediterranean diet, pic t ured, might also exercise more) and so it can be hard to confirm that the one thing being recorded causes the outcome.
Despite these limitations, class/level 2 evidence is still seen as pretty good. For promoting brain health, the following have this level of evidence: Mediterranean diet/ MIND diet, cognitive stimulation, smoking cessation, treating sleep apnoea, treating depression, early life education, control of diabetes and lifelong learning.
Level 3 and 4 evidence is considerably less robust and often relies on small or retrospective studies where the researchers look back and see what someone with or without a disease may have been doing or experiencing: for example, finding out that those who drink a little red wine have better memory.
These are signals that the behaviour may have influenced the outcome, but it is hard to conclude.
There are many things that fall into this category for brain health, including moderate alcohol use (hotly debated), omega 3 supplementation, B and D vitamins, curcumin, resveratrol, sauna use, intermittent fasting and more.
Ultimately, we all must make decisions based on incomplete data, but it is good to know the strength of the evidence. If it is a low-risk intervention, you might decide to do it, even if it has a low level of evidence.
But if not, you really want to be assured that the evidence is robust.
Kailas Roberts is a psychogeriatrician and author of Mind Your Brain: The Essential Australian Guide to Dementia, available at bookstores and online. Visit yourbraininmind.com or uqp.com.au
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YOUR FRIEND HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH CANCER: HERE A RE 6 THINGS YOU CAN D
Across the world, one-in-five p e ople are diagnos e d with canc er during their lifetime. By age 85, almost one-in-two Australians will b e diagnos e d with canc er
When it happ ens to s ome one you care ab out, it can b e hard to know what to say or how to help them.
But providing the right supp ort to a friend can make all the differenc e as they fac e the emotional and physical challenges of a new diagnosis and treatment.
Here are six ways to offer meaningful supp ort to a friend who has b e en diagnos e d with canc er
1. RECOGNISE AND RESPOND TO EMOTIONS – When facing a canc er diagnosis and treatment, it’s normal to exp erienc e a range of emotions including fear, anger, grief and sadness.
Your friend’s mo o ds may fluctuate. It is als o c ommon for fe elings to change over time: for example your friend’s anxiety may de creas e, but they may fe el more depress e d.
Some friends may want to share details while others will prefer privacy
Always ask p ermission to rais e s ensitive topics (such as changes in physical app earanc e or their thoughts regarding fears and anxiety) and don’t make assumptions. It’s okay to tell them you fe el awkward, as this acknowle dges the challenging situation they are facing. When they fe el c omfortable to talk, follow their lead. Your supp ort and willingness to listen without judgment can provide great c omfort. You don’t have to have the answers. Simply acknowle dging what has b e en said, providing your full attention and b eing pres ent for them will b e a great help.
THE Eumundi Museum is presenting a new exhibition providing a close-up view of creatures that can be found in the area and your own backyard.
The Ecology of Eumundi exhibition highlights the relationships between different living things, and their relationships with their environment.
One animal that is endemic (found in a specific place only and nowhere else) to
2. UNDERSTAND THEIR DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT – Understanding your friend’s diagnosis and what they’ll go through when b eing treate d may b e helpful.
Being informe d can re duc e your own worry. It may als o help you to listen b etter and re duc e the amount of explaining your friend has to do, esp e cially when they’re tire d or overwhelme d.
Explore reputable s ourc es such as the C anc er Council website for ac curate information, s o you can have meaningful c onversations. But ke ep in mind your friend has a truste d me dical team to offer p ers onalis e d and ac curate advic e.
3. CHECK IN REGULARLY – C anc er treatment can b e is olating, s o regular che ck-ins, texts, calls or visits can help your friend fe el less alone.
Having a normal c onversation and sharing a joke can b e very welc ome.
But everyone c op es with canc er differently. Be patient and flexible in your supp ort – s ome days will b e harder for them than others. Rememb ering key dates – such as the next round of chemotherapy – can help your friend fe el supp orte d.
Celebrating milestones, including the
southeast Queensland is the Richmond Birdwing Butterfly
Eumundi sits upon one of the tributaries of one of the region’s main rivers: the Maroochy, and has a subtropical climate.
The Richmond Birdwing Butterfly is the largest subtropical butterfly in the country
It was once found as far north as Maryborough and south to Grafton, but it is now a threatened species.
The Wildlife Preservation Society of Queensland and others have been working to help this butterfly, using a captive breeding-and-release program with positive results.
Eumundi Museum also is fortunate to have a small section of taxidermy: preserved creatures including beetles, birds, bugs, a mother sugar glider and some impressive stick insects.
end of treatment or anniversary dates, may b o ost morale and remind your friend of p ositive moments in their canc er journey
Always ask if it’s a go o d time to visit, as your friend’s immune system may b e c ompromis e d by their canc er or treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy. If you’re fe eling unwell, it’s b est to p ostp one visits – but they may still appre ciate a call or text.
4.
OFFER PRACTICAL SUPPORT –
Sometimes the b est way to show your care is through practical supp ort.
There may b e different ways to offer help, and what your friend ne e ds might change at the b eginning, during and after treatment. For example, you c ould offer to pick up pres criptions, drive them to app ointments s o they have transp ort and c ompany to debrief, or wait with them at app ointments.
Meals will always b e welc ome. However, it’s imp ortant to rememb er canc er and its treatments may affe ct taste, smell and app etite, as well as your friend’s ability to eat enough or abs orb nutrients. You may want to che ck first if there are particular fo o ds they like. Go o d nutrition can help b o ost their strength while dealing with the side effe cts of treatment.
There may als o b e family resp onsibilities you can help with: for example, babysitting kids, gro c ery shopping or taking care of p ets.
5. EXPLORE SUPPORTS TOGETHER
– Studies have shown mindfulness practic es can b e an effe ctive way for p e ople to manage anxiety ass o ciate d with a canc er diagnosis and its treatment. If this is s omething your friend is intereste d in, it may b e enjoyable to explore class es (either online or in-p ers on)
together. You may als o b e able to help your friend c onne ct with organisations that provide emotional and practical help, such as the C anc er Council’s supp ort line, which offers fre e, c onfidential information and supp ort for anyone affe cte d by canc er, including family, friends and carers.
Pe er supp ort groups can als o re duc e your friend’s fe elings of is olation and foster share d understanding and empathy with p e ople who’ve gone through a similar exp erienc e. GPs can help with referrals to supp ort programs.
6. STICK WITH THEM – Be c ommitte d. Many p e ople fe el is olate d after their treatment. This may b e b e caus e regular app ointments have re duc e d or stopp e d – which can fe el like losing a safety net –or b e caus e their relationships with others have change d.
Your friend may als o exp erienc e emotions such as worry, lack of c onfidenc e and unc ertainty as they adjust to a new way of living after their treatment has ende d. This will b e an imp ortant time to supp ort your friend.
But don’t forget: lo oking after yours elf is imp ortant, to o. Making sure you eat well, sle ep, exercis e and have emotional supp ort will help steady you through what may b e a challenging time for you, as well as the friend you love.
Our res earch team is developing new programs and res ourc es to supp ort carers of p e ople who live with canc er
While it can b e a challenging exp erienc e, it can als o b e immens ely rewarding, and your small acts of kindness can make a big differenc e.
* This ar t icle was first p ublished in The Conve rs at ion (the conve rs at ion.com/au ) on Novemb e r 8, 2024.
ITALIAN CLASS FOR BEG INNERS MEGA MARKET SALE
LISTEN, learn and speak conversational Italian in a 12-week course at the Leisure Centre, Noosaville.
Isabella Dusi, a Scottish-born Australian, went to Italy for a holiday and stayed 25 years. Living in Tuscany or any enchanting Italian village for a year or two is a life-changing experience many people dream about. Isabella was 18 on her first visit to Italy. She went again at 28 until, finally, in her mid-40s, she stayed.
The author of Vanilla Be ans & Brodo, and two other books about Italy, Isabella has been teaching Italian for many years.
“If you are going to visit Italy, dream of living in an Italian village or just like the thought of learning a beautiful language, this is the opportunity for you to learn everyday conversational Italian,” she says.
The first-term class begins on June 24. Email isabelladusi039@gmail.com
ST PETER’S Anglican Church in Maroochydore (corner of Church and Beach streets) is having a Mega Market on Saturday, June 14, from 8am-2pm. Head along early for homemade cakes, jams and chutneys, books and plants and a bric-a-brac stall with many interesting items, as well as quality china and cutlery
BUDERIM VIEW CLUB
BUDERIM VIEW Club members support The Smith Family charity. Attending club events helps with the education of students from disadvantaged families. Members meet at Buderim Tavern on the first Wednesday of the month at 11am for an 11.30am start. Cost for lunch and hire of the function room is $30. RSVP to Gail gailjullian@gmail.com or call 0414 950 949 for more details.
ECOLO GY OF EUMUNDI
ia White,
Buying Now
Mike and Nate Cornish will be travelling the Sunshine Coast for 6 days only, from the 16th to the 21st of June. We want to buy your unwanted items listed below. Please visit us at one of the venues shown below. These events are often compared to the ‘Antiques Roadshow’ on TV, but without the long queues. Don’t miss this opportunity! If you live outside the area, have too many items to bring in, or would like a home visit, phone Nate on 0426 820 646 NOW to arrange a time. Fully Licensed Antique, Numismatic, and Precious Metal Buyers with over 45 years Industry Experience. Security Supplied by Security International Limited.
Are you moving or downsizing? Are you worried about security? Unwanted coins? Any jewellery, incl damaged? Do they sit in a drawer or cupboard? Are you no longer collecting? Are the family not interested?
Would the money be more of use to you?
odesoco
ington, E
MONDAY 16TH JUNE
Maroochy RSL (Boardroom 3)
10:00am – 2:00pm 105 Memorial Ave, Maroochydore
Home Visits
2:00pm – 6:00pm
Phone 0426 820 646 For a Home Visit
TUESDAY 17TH JUNE
Club Kawana (Boardroom) 10:00am – 2:00pm 476 Nicklin Way, Wurtulla
Home Visits
WEDNESDAY 18TH JUNE
Caloundra RSL (Sub Branch Lounge) 10:00am – 2:00pm 19 West Terrace, Caloundra
tools.
Notes
19TH JUNE
North Shore Community Centre (Marcoola Room) 11:00am – 1:00pm 701 David Low Way, Mudjimba
20TH JUNE
2:00pm – 6:00pm Phone 0426 820 646 For a Home Visit
Visits 1:00pm – 6:00pm Phone 0426 820 646 For a Home Visit Home Visits 2:00pm – 6:00pm Phone 0426 820 646 For a Home Visit
Coolum Surf Club (Conference Room) 10:00am – 1:00pm 1775-1779 David Low Way
All Jewellery, Rings, Diamond and other stones, Brooches, Pendants, Lockets, Bracelets & Bangles, Gold Cuff Links, Necklaces, All Broken
Home Visits 1:00pm – 6:00pm Phone 0426 820 646 For a Home Visit
Phone 0426 820 646 For a Home Visit s No appointment necessary. No need to sort or clean coins. We’ll buy 1-10,000 items.
Home Visits
SATURDAY 21ST JUNE
Noosa Leisure Centre (The Lounge) 9:00am – 12:00pm 9 Wallace Drive, Noosaville
12:00pm – 6:00pm
Jewellery
or Worn Jewellery.
In-home care feature
A HELPING HAND (AND MORE) WHEN WE NEED IT
By SHIR LE Y SINCLAIR
HUMANS are creatures of habit. And as we get older, many of us relish the familiarity of being in our own surroundings and having a routine.
That’s where in-home care is a godsend. While we are physically and mentally able, we can live in our own homes but still enjoy the convenience of a helping hand.
My 92-year-old mother-in-law, for example, still lives in the Brisbane home she moved into as a newlywed. She is bright and sprightly, enjoys the company of young and old, attends church most Sundays and still manages to manoeuvre her ‘walker’ around the furniture and treasured items amassed over the decades. She never wants to leave the home she created with her late husband and sons. A person needs to be assessed before they can access government-funded aged
care services. This assessment considers the individual’s needs and the types of care and services they may be eligible for
My mother-in-law didn’t need extra assistance until well into her eighties. Her in-home care began with basic cleaning and vacuuming some time ago. But her sons could see that she needed a little help and so they set the wheels in motion for re-assessment, to increase the services available in her Home Care Package.
Now, as well as the weekly ‘spring clean’, she has help showering, receives Meals on Wheels, and has the opportunity to go on a weekly outing for conversation, lunch, activities and entertainment. Many more people are keeping an eye on her welfare. She was given a new lease on life. Her family was given peace of mind.
The Support at Home program, part of the new Aged Care Act, begins on July 1, replacing the Home Care Packages program and Short-Term Restorative Care.
Visit myagedcare.gov.au or contact your ser v ice prov ider for more details.
CHANGES IN THE WIND MEAN YOU NEED A PROVIDER YOU CAN TRUST
RAINB OW C are Home Servic es is a provider that genuinely cares ab out the staff, clients and families it works with.
As Supp ort at Home rolls out from next month, there is still such unc ertainty by providers and clients alike on the impact of thes e changes and what it all means.
Now, more then ever, it is imp ortant that s eniors ac c essing Home C are Packages and supp orts ne e d providers they can trust to help navigate and transition into this new world.
There are many changes all at onc e with: the removal of package management fe es and this c ost then b eing shifte d onto increas e d hourly rates; capp e d care-management fe es and changes in client c ontributions; and ac c ess to unsp ent funds.
Servic es Australia has vowe d a ‘no-wors e-off ’ principal for all existing approve d Home C are Package re cipients and has made available an abundanc e of res ourc es and webinars to supp ort the transition.
With the c opious amount of information available, it is crucial for providers to step up and walk alongside their clients to help digest all the information and de cipher what is most
relevant to them as individuals.
The goals b ehind thes e changes are: to s et up a more us er-friendly and sustainable system; smaller wait times for Home C are Package re cipients and to ac c ess supp orts; less ad ministration; and more funding available for dire ct s ervic es.
Another change but an amazing outc ome from the Royal Commission into Age d C are Quality and Safety was the creation of the provider S p e cialisation Verification Framework.
This framework supp orts s ome of the most marginalis e d c ommunities in age d care, including the LGBTIQ+ c ommunities, in finding age d care s ervic es they can trust and that are b est suite d to their ne e ds.
Providers cannot simply s elf-identify but ne e d to go through an evidenc ebas e d verification pro c ess to ensure that the sp e cialist provider in question has an approach to s ervic e delivery that go es over and ab ove the Age d C are Quality Standards to provide resp e ctful and culturally appropriate care.
Onc e verifie d, that sp e cialisation is displaye d on the My Age d C are Provider Profile.
WOR DS: Chr is t ine Neila nd, C EO a nd c o-founde r, Rainb ow Care Home Se r v ic es. Call 3110 1633 or email info@rainbowcarehomeservices.com.au
GIVING DAY HELPS MOST VULNERABLE IN COMMUNITY
RANGECARE is launching its inaugural Giv ing Day on Thurs day, June 26.
This is a campaign de dicate d to c elebrating the strength of our c ommunity and the p ower of giv ing back to our most vulnerable and is olate d.
As a c ommunity-bas e d not-forprofit sinc e 1986, RangeC are relies on the generosity of lo cals to supp ort indiv iduals exp eriencing financial hardship and s o cial is olation, and to ensure they can c ontinue delivering the full range of s erv ic es that s o many vulnerable c ommunity memb ers rely on.
One of the most value d programs prov ide d is its lo cal So cial Centres, as the organisation b elieves s o cial c onne ction is v ital to a happy and fulfilling life.
Thes e v ibrant hubs prov ide opp ortunities for p e ople to stay active, build friendships and remain c onne cte d to their c ommunity
For many clients, this is often their only s o cial outing and includes transp ort, entertainment, c o oke d nutritious meals and activ ities to improve their mental wellb eing through forming meaningful s o cial c onne ctions.
This Giv ing Day, RangeC are is s e eking supp ort to help buy an
additional transp ort bus for its So cial Centres.
Ac c ess to safe and reliable transp ortation is one of the biggest barriers for many clients, and your donation will dire ctly help to reach more c ommunity memb ers who would otherwis e b e unable to participate in thes e life-changing programs. Your donation, big or small, will dire ctly supp ort this initiative. Every donation brings RangeC are one step clos er to prov iding more p e ople with ac c ess to thes e life-enriching s erv ic es.
Donate at rangecare.com.au/ donate or call 5445 7044.
MAXIMISE your independence
Feel safer at home with minor home modifications including grab rails, door wedges and hand held showers.
We also subsidise minor home maintenance related to your safety and security.
• Smoke alarm checks
• Changing light globes
• Gutter cleans
• Plumbing
• Electrical
NEEDING A MAJOR HOME MODIFICATION?
Our team of specialists has over 25 years of experience and can provide subsidised modifications to your bathroom, as well as access ramps and stairlifts.
WHY CONTINENCE HEALTH MATTERS
BLADDER and b owel c ontinenc e issues can fe el like s omething we just have to ‘put up with’ as we get older – but that c ouldn’t b e further from the truth.
In fact, ab out one-in-four Australians over 65 exp erienc es s ome form of inc ontinenc e. And for many, it starts subtly: a few more trips to the lo o, a little leak when laughing or c oughing, or that nervous s can for the nearest toilet whenever you go out.
Bladder and b owel health can change for many reas ons, including me dications, various me dical c onditions, menopaus e, prostate issues, chronic c onstipation or natural changes in mus cle tone. Just b e caus e it’s c ommon do esn’t mean it should b e
ignore d. Inc ontinenc e can affe ct sle ep, mo o d, c onfidenc e and even lead p e ople to withdraw from s o cial activ ities.
The go o d news is, there’s a lot that can help and most of it starts with small, manageable steps.
Thes e might include:
• staying well hydrate d
• p elv ic flo or exercis es
• regular movement to ke ep mus cles strong
• eating a balanc e d diet
• e ducation and adv ic e, c ouple d with a p ers onalis e d plan that c ould include bladder training and inc ontinenc e aids.
As a nurs e, I often find the biggest barrier is simply starting the c onversation. Pe ople live with symptoms for years, not realising many effe ctive, dis crete s olutions and treatments are available.
If you’ve b e en quietly managing bladder or b owel changes, you’re not alone. Supp ort is available and more helpful than you might think. A chat with your GP or nurs e c ould s et you in the right dire ction for a c ontinenc e ass essment and tailore d care plan. Sometimes, a friendly chat is the first step to fe eling like yours elf again.
WOR DS: Sara Blundell, Regis te red Nurse, Suppor ted at Home.
Visit supportedathome.com.au
NO PLACE LIKE HOME FOR OLDER AUSSIES
IN SOUTHEAST Que ensland, the message is clear: older Australians want to remain in their own homes as they age.
National data shows that more than 90 p er c ent of s eniors prefer to age in plac e – and it’s easy to s e e why
Home is familiar, c omforting and fille d with memories. It’s als o where p e ople fe el most c onne cte d to their family, friends, neighb ours and lo cal c ommunity
The Australian government has listene d. Under the 2024 Age d C are Act, additional funding has b e en c ommitte d to help more p e ople live indep endently at home.
This includes increas e d investment in home supp ort and s ervic e packages designe d to ke ep p e ople safe, well and s o cially c onne cte d.
G etting the right care is key to making this work. Whether it’s help with cleaning, transp ort or nursing supp ort, p ers onalis e d care plans ensure p e ople can c ontinue doing the things they can, while re c eiving help with the things they can’t.
The result? Greater indep endenc e, dignity and wellb eing.
Ro chell Rob erts on, a qualifie d nurs e and cas e manager at All Ab out Living, says c ommunity nursing is all ab out p ers on-c entre d care.
AHOMECAREPACKAGE?
HAVEYOUBEENASSIGNEDAHOMECAREPACKAGE?
CALLANDSPEAKTOOURTEAMTODAYON(07)31101633to discusswhatmakesRainbowCaresospecial.
Feelsupportedwithapackageofcaredesignedwithyou, foryou.
Your package will include:
Yourpackagewillinclude:
• A person assisting with the co-ordination of your
• Services
• No cost, monthly face to face meetings.
•Apersonassistingwiththecoordinationofyourcareand supports.
•Servicesthatbestsuityou,whoyouareandhowyouwish tolive.
•Nocost,monthlyfacetofacemeetings.
“ We value the role we play in helping p e ople stay where they want to b e – in their homes, surrounde d by what’s familiar and meaningful to them,” she says.
With new funding, improve d s ervic es and a stronger fo cus on supp orting older Australians, there’s never b e en a b etter time to plan ahead.
Visit allaboutliving.com.au
incredible home carer workers on the Sunshine Coast.
Originally from Sydney, Julia made the move north with her partner in 2004, dreaming of a new life in a more relaxed and family-friendly environment. Not long after, she welcomed her twin boys into the world — now proud young men who remain her greatest joy.
After 12 years working in education and raising her family as a single parent, Julia decided it was time to focus on her dream of giving back to the community. Julia’s decision to pursue a career in aged care was driven not just by her passion for helping others, but also by personal experience.
Bringing Compassion, Pride, and Positivity to Care Work on the Sunshine Coast
“With elderly parents of my own, I see
compassionate care for our older generation,” she says. “It made me even more determined to make a real
Julia’s natural warmth, listening skills, and genuine passion for her job have made her a favourite among her clients.
personal care, helping with shopping, or simply having a good conversation,
“No two days are ever the same — and that’s what keeps it rewarding and challenging,” she says.
She also values the supportive culture at Home Care Assistance.
recognise hard work, celebrate achievements, and constantly invest in training and development. It’s a great environment to work in.”
Julia is passionate about inspiring others to join the industry too.
Her positive attitude, respect, and thoughtful approach to every visit were formally recognised in 2024 when she was awarded the Above and Beyond Champion at Home Care Assistance’s annual Carer Awards Night.
“I’m proud of every moment in this
positive connection with each client is what makes me successful. Sometimes you might be the only person a client sees all week, and it’s so important to make that time meaningful for them.”
“If you’re considering becoming a care worker, know that it will be the most rewarding job you’ll ever do. It’s not about you — it’s about being there, wholeheartedly, for someone else.”
Want to become a carer like Julia?
providing transport, assisting with
At Home Care Assistance, we’re here to make ageing at home easierwith genuine care, expert help, and someone you can call any time of day. make that time meaningful for them.”
Home Care Assistance is currently hiring care workers across the Sunshine Coast, supporting clients from Beerburrum to Noosa and throughout the Hinterland. If you’re compassionate, reliable, and love to hear from you.
love to hear from you.
Apply today! Email us with your CV at support@hcasupport.com.au or visit HomeCareAssistanceSunshineCoast.com.au
Ready for better support at home?
ake at home easiere you can any of 07 5491 6888
CLIEN TS and their families have always b e en at the c entre of everything that Maro o chy Home Assist (MHA) do es.
MHA staff understand the challenges that c ome with ageing.
Even small, everyday tasks such as changing a light bulb, clearing a pathway or cleaning fans can beco m e overwhelming, and even dangerous, for older indiv iduals.
Prov iding state or fe deral government-subsidis e d assistanc e helps prevent falls and other ac cidents that c ould lead to hospitalisation.
Most imp ortantly, MHA helps p e ople maintain their indep endenc e at home, where they can fe el the most c omfortable.
It has long b e en a b eac on of supp ort for older adults.
As the organisation c ontinues to evolve, its fo cus remains on assisting thos e who ne e d its s erv ic es the most.
The team c ompletes a wide range of home maintenanc e and mo dification work.
Thes e tasks include: creating level-ac c ess bathro oms; installing ac c ess ramps, bidets and stairlifts, grab rails and key safes; repairing lo cks and handles; replacing ins e ct s cre ens and light bulbs; clearing gutters and garden maintenanc e (eligibility criteria applies); and subsidis e d
plumbing and ele ctrical work. The organisation emp owers its clients by prov iding other key programs such as:
• Home Assist S e cure (HAS): a lifeline for eligible Que enslanders, age d 60 and over, as well as indiv iduals with disabilities. HAS prov ides subsidis e d assistanc e for minor home maintenanc e and mo difications. From fixing a broken step to installing safety rails, the s erv ic e ensures homes are safe and c omfortable for their residents.
• Commonwe alth Home Support Program (CHSP): tailore d for indiv iduals age d 65 and over, and Ab original and Torres Strait Islander p e oples age d 50 and over, this program offers minor and major home mo difications. It is designe d to help s eniors remain indep endent by making their homes more ac c essible and safer for daily liv ing.
• NDIS and Home Care Package support: MHA now extends its s erv ic es to re cipients of Home C are Packages and National D isability Insuranc e Scheme (NDIS) participants. This expansion means even more indiv iduals can ac c ess ess ential handyman and mo dification s erv ic es across the Sunshine Coast. To learn more, call 5476 6130.
RangeCare is launching its first Annual Giving Day!
AF TER 18 years in business, Complete Comfort is now Que ensland Mobility Solutions.
While the name has change d, everything els e clients know and trust remains the same.
This is still the lo cal, familyowne d business with the same de dicate d team, high-quality pro ducts and c ommitment to helping clients live c omfortably and indep endently
Over the years, the business has grown to b e c ome a leading prov ider of adjustable b e ds, lift re cline chairs and mobility aids across the Sunshine Coast. As the business has expande d, it was time the name b etter refle cte d the full s c op e of what is offere d.
The name change als o refle cts where the business is heade d.
Que ensland Mobility Solutions repres ents a v ision to supp ort even more indiv iduals and families with exp ert adv ic e, genuine care and reliable e quipment that makes everyday life easier.
Clients will s e e familiar fac es in store and in their homes, delivering and demonstrating the pro ducts that have earne d trust.
Que ensland Mobility Solutions prov ides a wide range of high-quality
Annual Giving Day
As a community based not-for-profit, RangeCare relies on donations to support clients experiencing financial hardship, and to support the delivery of RangeCare’s full range of services.
One of our most valued programs at RangeCare are our local Social Centres. We believe that staying active and making social connections is key to a happy and fulfilling life.
This Annual Giving Day, we are seeking donations to assist with funding an additional transport bus for our Social Centres in order to offer access to this service to more community members.
How to donate:
If you would like to support our fundraising efforts this Annual Giving Day, donations can be made online via the QR code below or by visiting our website: www.rangecare.com.au/donate
You can also donate over the phone by calling 07 5445 7044.
pro ducts designe d to supp ort c omfort, safety and indep endenc e at home. From adjustable b e ds and lift re cline chairs to mobility aids such as walkers, bathro om e quipment and daily liv ing to ols — the s olutions are thoughtfully s ele cte d to make everyday life easier for you or your love d ones.
Whether you’re purchasing, hiring, or just after helpful guidanc e, the team will supp ort you every step of the way Visit qldcompletecomfort.com.au and 3/79 Wises Road, Maroochydore, or call 5479 5918
Leaving a gift
Buder im Foundation celebrates 21 years of making a difference
The Buderim Foundation will host its Mo onlit Celebration with humanitarian Rev Tim Costello as sp e cial guest to c elebrate 21 years of c ommunity, generosity and impact.
The formal evening is on Saturday, August 23, from 6.30-10.30pm, with live music, a sit-down meal, keynote sp e e ch from Rev Costello and plenty of surpris es at the new Buderim
Mountain State Scho ol Hall.
Buderim Foundation chair Rick Wo o ds says the organisation is honoure d to have Rev Costello as a sp e cial guest for the evening.
“Tim is well known for his humanitarian work which aligns with the philanthropic philos ophy at the heart of the Buderim Foundation,” Mr Wo o ds says.
“As a c ommunity, we are very lucky that the founders create d the foundation in 2004 by establishing investment funds to help supp ort the c ommunity
“The idea was simple: invest donations and b e quests and distribute the earnings through grants to c ommunity organisations supp orting the lo cal c ommunity.
“The original investment is never sp ent, s o the fund can c ontinue to supp ort the c ommunity in p erp etuity
“Now, 21 years on, this idea includes the Buderim c ommunity grants program that prov ide a s erv ic e and supp ort to residents in the Buderim area as well as the Thomps on Charitable Fund which prov ides grants to organisations supp orting p e ople exp eriencing homelessness and financial hardship across the entire Sunshine Coast.
“Over $1.8million in total has b e en
distribute d back into our c ommunities sinc e inc eption.”
Rev Costello will pres ent a keynote sp e e ch sharing his exp erienc es and insights ab out philanthropy
“I am delighte d to b e attending this milestone event for the Buderim Foundation,” Rev Costello says.
“Their philanthropy mo del has sto o d the test of time and c ontinues to make a significant c ontribution to the Sunshine Coast c ommunity ” Mr Wo o ds says the Mo onlit Celebration will honour the foundation’s exciting achievements and aims to rais e $21,000 to c elebrate 21 years. Funds will b e rais e d through profits from the festiv ities, as well as through the supp ort of event partners.
“The funds rais e d from the c elebrations will go into the investment funds and therefore increas e the funding available for our grants program long into the future,” Mr Wo o ds says.
Tickets for the Moonlit Celebration are strictly limited. They cost $170 per person or $1600 for a table of 10, plus booking fees, and are available at events.humanitix.com/a-moonlitcelebration. Event partnership opportunities are still available. To find out more, email info@ buderimfoundation.org.au.
For more than 25 years, Alzheimer’s Res earch Australia has b e en a leader in the fight against the dis eas e and other dementias.
From humble b eginnings in a single lab oratory, it now op erates from a state-of-the-art facility supp orting world-class res earch, early dete ction strategies, clinical trials and innovative therapies.
Every dis c overy is driven by a share d v ision of making Alzheimer’s dis eas e a distant memory for future
A Gift in Your Will to QIMR Berghofer is a Legacy for the Future
QIMR Berghofer is a world-leading medical research institute, renowned for our efforts in both discovery and real patient outcomes. Celebrating eight decades of delivering ground breaking medical research.
Gifts in Wills to QIMR Berghofer are the gifts that keep on giving. The research and knowledge that is achieved because of your generosity will continue, and advances that are made today will have the potential to change the lives of Australians now and generations to come.
If you have left QIMR Berghofer a Gift in your Will please let us know, we would love to thank you and ensure you receive the latest research news.
generations. Community supp ort is at the heart of everything Alzheimer’s Res earch Australia do es.
One of the most meaningful ways to c ontribute is by leav ing a gift in your will.
This lasting gesture ensures the organisation can c ontinue investing in critical res earch to b etter understand, prevent and treat this devastating c ondition.
Many p e ople assume that creating a will is exp ensive or c omplicate d, but it do esn’t have to b e.
Online platforms such as Wille d and Safewill offer affordable, easy-tous e options.
For under $170, you can create a legally valid will in as little as 20 minutes, from the c omfort of your home.
Both s erv ic es als o allow you to include a charitable gift, big or small, to any organisation.
By taking this simple step, you’re not only safeguarding your wishes but als o supp orting a future where breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s res earch can change and save lives.
To learn more about leaving a gift in your will or starting the process online through trusted partners, visit alzheimersresearch.org.au or contact Caren Wilson on (08) 6457 0253 for a private and confidential conversation.
YOU WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Leaving a Gift in your Will to QIMR Berghofer is a personal way to make a difference and create a lasting impact for future generations.
QIMR Berghofer has more than 650 researchers working on discovering better treatments and understanding of, Cancer Research, Brain and Mental Health, Infection and inflammation and Population Health in more than 60 specialised laboratories.
Gifts of all sizes are important, they are essential to fund the Research and the impact it has nationally and globally
For more information on leaving a Gift in your Will visit www.qimrb.edu.au or contact Lorraine Fraser for a confidential chat. 1800 993 000 E: giftsinwills@qimrb.edu.au
AUSTRALIAN res earch shows one-inthre e canc er cas es can b e prevente d through healthy lifestyle b ehaviours.
Thes e b ehaviours include drinking less alc ohol, quitting smoking, using sun prote ction, eating a healthy diet and b eing physically active.
The C anc er Risk C alculator is a fre e and easy-to-us e online to ol that helps you re duc e your canc er risk.
The higher your s c ores, the more you’re re ducing your canc er risk.
It’s much easier to make changes onc e you know where to start.
C anc er Council Que ensland’s prevention exp erts have pinp ointe d six sure-fire ways you can start re ducing your canc er risk and find canc er early. To re duce your risk:
• b e smoke fre e – the b est thing you can do for your health is not to smoke or vap e. Help is available by calling Quitline on 13 78 48
• us e sun prot e ction – always ‘Slip, Slop, Slap, Se ek and Slide’ when UV levels are 3 or ab ove which, in Que ensland, is all-year round
• b e physically active – try to fit movement into your daily routine
• e at a he althy diet – the evidenc e is clear: fo cus on eating more fruit, vegetables and wholegrains, less re d
meat, and avoid pro c ess e d meats
• limit alcohol consumption – to help lower your canc er risk, do your b est to limit intake
• know what’s normal for you and take part in s cre ening – early dete ction saves lives, s o know your b o dy, s e e your do ctor if you notic e any unusual changes, and participate in the national canc er s cre ening programs.
More than 70,000 p e ople have us e d the C anc er Risk C alculator to understand how to re duc e their canc er risk. So, what are you waiting for?
Visit cancerqld.org.au/ understanding-cancer/prevention/ To leave a gift in your will to Cancer Council Queensland, go to cancerqld. org.au/get-involved/legacy-giving/ gift-in-will/
For over 60 years, the Queensland and Northern New South Wales Lions Medical Research Foundation (LMRF) has fuelled transformative medical research by supporting early career bio-medical scientists dedicated to tackling urgent health challenges.
Pioneering Research for a Healthier Tomorrow
• Dr. Dominic Guanzon : Developing a blood test to predict ovarian cancer recurrence, offering a new hope for patients facing limited treatment options.
• Dr. Olivia Holland : Researching pregnancy health to mitigate long-term risks of gestational diabetes, aiming for healthier lives for mothers and children alike.
Building the Next Generation of Scientists Through the SPARQ-ed program, LMRF provides scholarships for regional students, inspiring future researchers to push boundaries in medical science.
Join Us in Making a Difference LMRF relies solely on community support to fund these vital projects. Your donation can help drive discoveries, offering tax-deductible benefits while supporting life-changing advancements.
Visitlionsmedicalresearchfoundation.org.au to learn more andcontributetoabrighter,healthierfutureforall.
REWRITING OUTCOMES FOR CHILDREN WITH CANCER, THANKS TO YOU
THE Ian Frazer Centre for Children’s Immunotherapy Res earch is the first of its kind in Australia.
The c entre works to improve treatment options for children with canc er, thanks to funding from the Children’s Hospital Foundation.
Right now, ab out 760 children, from newb orns to 14 years, are diagnos e d with canc er each year in Australia. But traditional canc er treatments have remaine d largely unchange d in de cades.
“At the Ian Frazer Centre for Children’s Immunotherapy Res earch,
we’re tackling this challenge head-on – using cutting-e dge immunotherapy and pre cision s cienc e to understand thes e canc ers and harness the b o dy’s own immune system to fight them,” a sp okesp ers on says.
One exciting proje ct at the Ian Frazer Centre already showing promis e is the Pers onal Immunity-Guide d C anc er Vac cine.
The p ers onalis e d approach lo oks to harness re c ent advanc es in immunology to b o ost a child’s own immune resp ons e to identify and destroy canc er c ells.
Each vac cine will b e tailore d to the indiv idual child and can spare healthy tissue and minimis e the us e and side effe cts of current treatments.
This life-changing res earch is only made p ossible thanks to the supp orters of the Children’s Hospital Foundation.
Everyday p e ople, who cho os e to leave a gift in their will, allow the Children’s Hospital Foundation to c ontinue to ac c elerate res earch breakthroughs.
Even just 1 p er c ent of your estate can give hop e to sick kids and their families now and into the future.
Your supp ort can rewrite the story for children with canc er
To learn more, head to childrens.org.au/gift-in-will/ or call Fiona on 0428 818 799.
IN 1953, Sister Olive Crombie stepp e d ab oard a tram with a simple mission.
That journey to v isit a client in South Brisbane sparke d what would b e c ome BlueC are: a tap estry of c ompassion still b eing woven throughout Que ensland neighb ourho o ds to day
What b egan as one woman’s calling has flourishe d into care touching thousands of lives.
BlueC are now offers supp ort ranging from assistanc e that helps p e ople remain in homes fille d with memories, to c ommunities where new friendships blo om alongside professional care.
Each approach honours the same values: dignity and the b elief that every life story des erves to unfold with meaning.
For thos e facing memory loss, BlueC are creates havens where familiar rhythms bring c omfort amid c onfusion.
C are teams b e c ome truste d guides for families nav igating the unfamiliar terrain of dementia, offering practical wis dom and steady pres enc e during challenging transitions.
Much of this work c ontinues b e caus e of ordinary Que enslanders who include d gifts in their wills –p e ople who never witness e d the full impact of their generosity.
We will ... will you?
Wills are generally very private topics.
However we have become increasingly comfortable to “go public on our intention to leave a bequest to the Buderim Foundation. We invite you to also consider a bequest to Buderim’s very own Foundation.
The Foundation has matured and is already proving its value to the community. We love the idea, and potential that all bequests and donations are invested with only the income used for grants.
This means our bequest becomes a permanent legacy, providing a benefit to the community forever.
We did! Will you? ~ Simon and Sandy Whittle
For more information call the Buderim Foundation on: 0474 220 895 or visit: www.buderimfoundation.org.au/bequests
The Foundation has many ways to give Bequest • Donate • Regularly Give • Gift in Memory
Thes e quiet legacies help train c ompassionate caregivers, pione er gentler approaches to c omplex ne e ds, and transform spac es into true sanctuaries of b elonging.
Your b e quest, whether mo dest or substantial, plants s e e ds of kindness that will blo om long after you’re gone.
Just as Sister Olive’s journey s et whe els in motion, your legacy helps ensure future generations re c eive care that honours their unique stories and pres erves their dignity.
For a conversation about leaving a legacy, contact the Gifts in Wills Team, BlueCare – UnitingCare Queensland on 1800 001 953, email plannedgiving@ucareqld.com.au or visit bluecare.org.au
As a mother, grandmother and teacher, children have always been a focus in Glenda’s life. Now, through the gift she has left in her will to the Children’s Hospital Foundation, helping sick kids like Ava is her legacy.
Creating a lasting legacy
For Glenda, leaving a gift in her will to the Children’s Hospital Foundation was a unique opportunity to share what she has with future generations to impact the lives of our “beautiful children”
“I had been a regular donor to the Children’s Hospital Foundation. The more I learned about their wonderful work, the more my passion for supporting them grew. And leaving a gift in my Will was the logical next step,” shares Glenda.
While no gift can ever give back all that childhood illness takes away, the kindness people like Glenda show can help save childhoods and lives.
Glenda’s gift – and every gift left in wills to the Children’s Hospital Foundation – supports ground breaking research, helps fund new and essential equipment and provides impact programs and services for every sick kid who comes through the doors of the Queensland Children’s Hospital.
Glenda’s generosity will help save more kids like Ava.
Saving little lives
At just seven years old, Ava was in grave danger of becoming what her oncologist calls one of the “lovely ghosts” of cancer – one of the children who cannot be cured.
What was first thought to be a virus turned out to be stage 4 neuroblastoma – a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer and was given less than a 50% chance of survival.
Traditional treatments were not working for her, and after a gruelling regime of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, Ava’s chances of survival dropped to less than 30%.
Hope through innovation
After all other treatment options had been exhausted, Ava’s oncologist organised for her to take part in a trial at the Queensland Children’s Hospital that combined immunotherapy and chemotherapy
Ava was one of the first children at Queensland Children’s Hospital to benefit from this innovative new treatment, offering new hope for a cancer-free future.
“By the third treatment, the cancer that was riddled in the hard parts of her bones had all gone,” shares Tiffiany, Ava’s mum.
By giving even just 1% of your estate to the Children’s Hospital Foundation – after your loved ones are taken of – you could be the difference kids like Ava deserve.
Just like Glenda, you could give hope to families now and into the future.
“I would encourage everyone when writing or updating your will to consider leaving a legacy to the Children’s Hospital Foundation. Every little amount helps, and you will become part of the fabulous family,” says Glenda.
just 1% of your estate can be the diference kids like Ava
To learn more scan the QR code or call Fiona on 0429 818 799 today.
SMARTER SLEEP STARTS HERE
MANAGING sle ep apnea
do esn’t have to b e c omplicate d. With the right supp ort and e quipment, b etter sle ep can b e c ome a s eamless part of everyday life.
As one of Australia’s most truste d c ontinuous p ositive airway pressure (CPAP) prov iders, CPAP D ire ct is c ommitte d to helping p e ople sle ep b etter through exp ert care, innovative te chnology and a genuine fo cus on long-term wellb eing.
At the heart of the offering is the ResMe d AirSens e 11 AutoSet: a standout in mo dern CPAP therapy.
This sle ek, smart dev ic e c ombines cutting-e dge te chnology with us er-friendly design to deliver a more
intuitive and c omfortable therapy exp erienc e.
With auto-adjusting pressure that resp onds in real time to your breathing, thre e therapy mo des (including the female-sp e cific AutoSet for Her) and a crisp touchs cre en display, the AirSens e 11 leads the way in sle ep innovation.
It als o pairs with ResMe d’s myAir app, offering daily sle ep tracking, c oaching and guide d s et-up, making it easier than ever to get starte d or stay on track.
CPAP D ire ct’s extensive range includes the latest machines and masks, carefully s ele cte d for c omfort, p erformanc e and innovative design. From minimal-c ontact masks to ultra-quiet mo dels, everything is chos en to help us ers sle ep b etter.
Whether you’re new to CPAP therapy or a long-term us er lo oking to upgrade, the AirSens e 11 offers a s eamless, c omfortable and highly p ers onalis e d exp erienc e, backe d by the exp ert supp ort of CPAP D ire ct’s team.
Call 1300 133 298 or visit cpap.com.au
CHOOSING a hearing clinic is about more than just buying a hearing aid.
It’s about finding a trusted partner for your hearing health.
A great clinic offers expert care, personalised service and ongoing support to ensure your hearing experience is the best it can be. A hearing loss is a health issue, not a retail opportunity
Start by looking at the clinic’s reputation. Patient reviews can tell you plenty about the quality of care. Equally important is the expertise of the professionals.
An audiologist or audiometrist brings specialised knowledge, ensuring you get the right advice, not just a sales pitch.
The best clinics offer more than devices. A full-service clinic provides hearing assessments, fittings, maintenance and repairs, making it a long-term support system rather than just a one-time transaction.
Variety matters, too. Avoid clinics that only sell one brand of hearing aid. A wide selection ensures you get the right device for your specific needs.
Cost should be clear and transparent. No one should feel
pressured into a quick decision. If unsure, get a second opinion.
Accessibility also matters.
A locally based clinic understands environmental factors that affect hearing, making care more tailored. Plus, your money stays on the Sunshine Coast.
Personalised care makes all the difference. The best clinics take time to understand your lifestyle and offer ongoing support, including follow-up appointments and maintenance.
Choosing an Australianowned clinic helps you receive community-driven care while supporting a local business.
With research, you’ll find a clinic committed to your hearing health and care for years to come.
Hear4Good is a familyowned, independent hearing clinic in Golden Beach and Caloundra. Call 54770144 or visit hear4good.com.au
WHILE Pilates has long been popular with the Instagram generation, a quieter movement is underway, led by Australia’s fastest-growing age group.
Certified instructor and CEO of Pilates Reformers Australia Cheryl Burgess is leading the charge. With the global population aged 60-plus growing by 3 per cent each year — and those over 80 expected to triple to 434 million by 2050, Cheryl says it’s time we reframe what fitness after 65 can look like.
The benefits of Reformer Pilates for older adults include:
• reduced risk of falls
• improved balance, mobility and stability
• increased strength and endurance
• support in managing chronic pain
• greater energy for everyday life (including chasing grandkids!)
• a strong sense of community and connection.
“It’s a form of exercise that celebrates ability, not age,” Cheryl says. “Every week, I see clients in their 60s, 70s and beyond discovering just how strong and capable they really are.”
SINCE its establishment in 2007, Sunshine Coast Radiology has built a reputation for excellence in diagnostic imaging, supporting our local community with high-quality, patient-centred care. Today, that commitment has reached a new milestone. With the recent integration of its six sister sites of X-Ray & Imaging clinics, Sunshine Coast Radiology now proudly ofers 13 clinics throughout the Coast.
This growth represents a signifcant evolution in the delivery of imaging services in our region. More than just an expansion in numbers, it’s a commitment to improving access, convenience, and continuity of care for both patients and referrers — all while maintaining the high standards and friendly local service that have long defned Sunshine Coast Radiology
General Manager of Sunshine Coast Radiology, Sharon Hinchley, says this evolution is all about better meeting the
needs of a growing and dynamic region.
“Our focus has always been on providing timely, accurate and compassionate care,” Ms Hinchley says. “By bringing together both our imaging brands under the Sunshine Coast Radiology banner, we’re now able to ofer patients and referrers more locations, more services, and easier access — with the same trusted team they’ve come to know.”
The integration of these six clinics means Sunshine Coast Radiology’s network now stretches from Noosa to Beerwah, ofering everything from general X-rays, ultrasounds and CT scans to advanced MRI, nuclear medicine, PET-CT and interventional procedures. With more practices located in key suburbs across the Coast, patients can access appointments sooner and closer to home — a critical advantage in healthcare today
“This consolidation means we can align technology and protocols across all sites, streamlining care and making it easier for patients to move between clinics when needed,” Ms Hinchley adds. “At the same time, we’ve retained the local staf and expertise from each of the practices, so patients will still see the same friendly faces — just with the added beneft of improved coordination and resources.”
For referring doctors and specialists, the expanded network also brings enhanced efciency and connectivity, with a single point of contact for bookings, image access and clinical communication.
The decision to unite these practices under the Sunshine Coast Radiology name refects a more integrated, patient-friendly healthcare model for the region, contributing to better outcomes for Sunshine Coast residents.
“Our patients are at the heart of everything we do,” Ms Hinchley says. “This evolution allows us to grow with our community while continuing to deliver the expert care we’re known for ”
Top tips for how to get star ted on investing later in life
HBAKER lo oks at easy ways over-55s can get on the rungs of the investment ladder
ave you found yourself in your later years without having seriously looked at investing?
Don’t worry: you’re not alone.
The good news is that it’s never too late to start.
For some people – particularly women – investing may not have been an option until later in life, constrained by a lack of income while raising children or low incomes leaving nothing to invest once the bills were paid.
Others have a newfound need to invest later in life, such as after a separation, inability to work through illness or injury, or the sudden death of their partner
No matter your reason for exploring investing later in life, the following pointers will get you on your way.
Update your strategy – when was the last time you updated your spending and investment plan (or household budget)? It may have been before the children left home, your mortgage was paid off, or you began transitioning into part-time retirement. If so, your living costs have changed significantly – work expenses, home energy consumption and groceries. Your goals, healthcare and lifestyle needs may also have changed. Update your strategy to align with your current goals, values, income and spending habits. Then, you will understand how much you can
invest and where to direct those funds.
Right-size your superannuation – in your later years, super is likely to be front of mind. Ensure this investment works its hardest for you by scrutinising its:
• structure: retail or industry fund? SMSF?
Each has its own costs and benefits
• investments: re-examine the types of assets held, level of diversification and risk weighting
• insurances: do you have adequate life, permanent disability and income protection cover?
• take advantage of superannuation strategies you may not be aware of.
Unlock home equity – the biggest source of money you’ll likely have at this stage of life is equity in your home. This can be used to invest with minimal impact on your everyday finances. Unused equity is effectively dead money (until you sell the
property). I always urge caution on reverse mortgages. In theory, they seem like a great way of unlocking equity without saddling you with regular repayments. However, they typically: accumulate more debt; have higher interest rates than standard mortgages; only grant access to a portion of your equity; can restrict your options to downsize later; could leave you with no remaining equity when you sell the property or nothing to leave benefactors.
Consider downsizing – an alternative to refinancing is downsizing from the family home. As well as unlocking money for investing, you benefit from lower upkeep costs (and cleaning) on a smaller property and can make a lifestyle change at the same time (moving nearer to family, away from cities or into supported care if required). Additionally, you may be able to use part of the sale proceeds (up to $300,000) to turbocharge your super with a one-off downsizer contribution.
Examine pension impacts – investing can impact your ability to claim the age pension and how much you receive. This often comes to bite people who unlock equity in their home to invest, without realising that doing so means the money suddenly counts towards the pension means test. Before doing anything, methodically weigh up which will leave you financially better off – claiming a
full/part-pension or self-funding retirement through investments. Minimise tax – hefty tax bills can easily wipe out any investment returns, making tax a crucial factor in your decision making. Potential tax considerations include:
• determining the most tax-effective ownership structure. For example, do you invest in your name or your partner’s? Through your super, a trust or company?
• incorporating stamp duty into purchase costs
• ensuring there is enough profit from the sale of an investment to cover Capital Gains Tax and income tax liabilities before deciding to sell
• timing a sale to fall within the optimal financial year (for example, in a year where your taxable income is lower or when relevant tax changes come into effect).
Invest in knowledge – later in life, you have fewer working years remaining to recover any losses. Given the far-reaching implications of investing, I highly recommend first speaking to a financial adviser. Many times you’ll find the fees are paid for in initial tax savings.
Helen Baker is a licensed Australian financial adviser and author of the book, Money For Life: How to build financial security from firm foundations. Find out more at onyourowntwofeet.com.au
ONE WAY RETIREES CAN LIVE OFF THE INTEREST WITHOUT TOUCHING THE CAPITAL
FOR many retirees, the financial goal is straightforward: generate enough income to cover living expenses without needing to dip into the savings carefully built over the years.
With traditional options such as term deposits offering historically low returns, and the share market presenting higher volatility, the search for reliable income has led some retirees to explore alternative investment options.
One such option is property-backed private credit, sometimes referred to as ‘real estate debt investing’.
Rather than buying a property outright or investing in shares, this approach involves funding loans that are secured by real estate. These loans are typically offered to experienced property developers or borrowers and are secured by a first mortgage: similar to how a bank secures a home loan.
In return for funding the loan, investors receive regular interest payments, which can be distributed monthly or quarterly, depending on the terms. Since the investment is structured as a loan rather than ownership, the returns come from
interest rather than rental income or capital growth.
For retirees, this can be appealing for a few reasons. Firstly, the income is relatively predictable and not tied to market fluctuations. Secondly, because the original investment (the capital) is tied to a specific loan and repaid at the end of the term, it allows for the possibility of living off the interest alone.
It’s important to note that, like all investments, this approach carries risks – including the borrower’s ability to repay and the value of the underlying property.
However, when structured conservatively, with appropriate due diligence and risk controls in place, property-backed credit can offer a practical solution for those seeking stable income in retirement while preserving their capital.
As always, independent financial advice is recommended before making any investment decisions.
WORDS: Just ine Christ ie, head of market ing, Capital Proper t y Funds. Visit capitalpropertyfunds.com.au
HELEN
Case of the homemade will that cost thousands
By D ON MACPHERS ON
Everyone wants a bargain thes e days, and one way p e ople s ometimes try to save money is by doing their own will or using a kit off the internet.
We were involved in a case that demonstrates that saving money in this way can end up costing thousands in the end.
A woman decided that she’d do her own will, with a kit she purchased herself. She had four children, one of whom looked after her in her old age.
She did her own will, saying that she left her ‘house contents and car’ to her
supp
ortive child, and then spent the rest of the will saying the rest of her estranged children deserved nothing.
One of those other children had a lawyer who was smart enough to realise –and argue in court when challenging the will – that she had only dealt with the ‘house contents’.
That is, the furniture, and hadn’t left her home – her ‘house’ – to anyone.
She’d left out the word ‘and’. Even a comma would have done.
That amounts to what’s called a ‘partial intestacy’, which meant the house goes to
Reviewing your will is important
“I HAVE done my will and don’t need to look at it again. Right?” Wrong!
Your estate planning can be affected by several life changes which typically include:
• major life events (marriage, divorce, death of a beneficiary or birth of a child)
• significant financial changes (starting a business, acquiring or selling an asset)
• changes in relationship or family dynamics (estrangement or reconciliation)
• age milestones (a minor beneficiary turning 18).
Reviewing your will is an important aspect of estate planning and should be done regularly
I recommend every three to five years, even if none of the above events occur
Failure to regularly review your will can result in unintended and undesirable consequences.
her next of kin: her four children, in equal shares.
While that clearly wasn’t her intention, that’s what the will said when read carefully
Eventually, we were able to convince the court her intention was clear, if her wording wasn’t, and the judge inserted a comma between the words ‘house’ and ‘ contents’ and the intended child received the house after all.
The will was very cheap.
The aftermath of tidying it up cost the estate thousands.
The bottom line: don’t do it yourself Get expert advice and get it right.
Don Macpherson, from Sunshine Coast Elder Law, has more than 30 years’ experience in dealing with wills and estate law, including drafting, challenging or defending wills. Call 1800 328 952 or visit sunshinecoastelderlaw.com.au
D isclaime r: The informat ion in these ar t icles is of a gene ral nat ure only and do es not c onst it ute p e rsonal financial or produc t adv ic e. Any op inions or v ie ws expressed are those of the authors and do not represent those of this p ubl icat ion, or p e ople, inst it ut ions or organis at ions the y may b e asso ciated w ith in a professional or p e rsonal cap acit y unless expl icitly stated.
THROWING MONEY D OWN THE DRAIN
AUSTRALIANS are throwing away a small fortune every year without even realising it, new research reveals.
A Finder survey of 1005 respondents revealed the average Australian admits to wasting a staggering $154 a month. That’s $1849 a year – a collective $39.6 billion down the drain. The research shows two-in-three Australians (68 per cent) are squandering money every month.
Young Australians waste the most money, with gen Z admitting to wasting a whopping $237 a month, compared with just $65 by baby boomers.
Rebecca Pike, money expert at Finder, says Aussies are spending on everything from impulse purchases to frivolous expenses.
“When you add it all up, that’s money you could be saving for a home deposit, a holiday or just a rainy day,” she says.
“It’s a real kick in the teeth when you see how much could be saved by cutting back on some unnecessary expenses. That $150 could be your ticket to financial freedom if you change your habits. If you can’t be bothered to manually track your spending, you can use an app like Gather or WeMoney. Consider putting that saved money into a high-interest savings account. It’s a low-risk way to let your money grow – helping you build a financial cushion.”
To save a few dollars, it may be tempting to try a DIY approach if you want to make some ‘minor’ changes to your existing will.
The whole estate plan must be carefully considered and any changes validly made.
Failing to get professional advice may do more harm than good and result in more cost ultimately being incurred.
You’ve worked hard to acquire the assets. Make sure they go where you want them to after you’re gone.
INDUSTR Y EXPER T
THE VALLEY b y Chr is Hamme r C r ime thr ill e r
Reviewed by Jan Kent
ONE of Australia’s favourite authors has pro duc e d yet another gem in this latest c ontribution to the crime genre.
As in Chris Hammer’s other novels, the dete ctive duo of Nell Buchanan and Ivan Lucic are on the cas e of a murdere d entrepreneur, s et in a remote mountain valley
The investigation takes an interesting twist when Nell unc overs a p ers onal link to the cas e but remains involve d, despite her c onflict of interest.
With links to a 1988 bank heist, the c onne ction to the current turn of events has a s ens e of c ontrive d c oincidenc e. However, this do es not detract from the suc c ess of the tale.
At times, I found the switch from past to pres ent times a little c onfusing, ke eping me flicking backwards to make s ens e of it.
As s e crets from the past are cleverly reveale d, the c onne ctions b e c ome clear, thankfully
With his usual flair for creating v isual imagery with des criptive language, Hammer onc e again immers es the reader in the b eauty of the Australian c ountryside.
With the exp e cte d e cle ctic mix of susp e cts and re d herrings, this novel is well worth reading.
THE NAMES
By
F l ore nc e Knapp, F ic t ion
Reviewed by Rebecca Walker, of Annie’s Books on Peregian
EXPLORING the impact one decision has on a person’s destiny, The Names is a captivating and sometimes heart-wrenching debut novel that examines the interaction between name and narrative.
Spanning 35 years and told through the eyes of a mother of three very different sons — Bear, Julian and Gordon (who represent distinct fictional realities) — this thoughtprovoking tale explores the idea that our names shape our personalities and, ultimately, our lives.
NOBODY’S FOOL
By Harlan Cob en C r ime thr ille r
Reviewed by
John Kleinschmidt
SAMI Kierc e is a disgrac e d ex-p olic e offic er, now a private investigator and part-time teacher of criminal investigation.
In his younger years, Kierc e met a girl in S pain and c ourte d her
That was until one morning when he woke up b eside her, murdere d with a knife in her chest.
Many years later, Kierc e is teaching a class when Anna, the girl he thought he had murdere d, fle etingly app ears at the back of his classro om.
Kierc e dis c overs that Anna had supp os e dly b e en kidnapp e d and, with others, had s camme d him with her fake death in S pain.
He is hire d by Anna’s rich family to find out what happ ene d during the 11 years she was missing.
Harlan Cob en is a crime genre master storyteller and this b o ok do es not disapp oint, with many twists and turns that Kierc e and his students unravel.
A very go o d read.
As each character wrestles with the ripple effects of the past, the reader is invited into three parallel worlds as they bear witness to the hard choices of the book’s maternal protagonist Cora.
Penned by British author Florence Knapp, The Names is a hard hitter with a soulful touch.
A moving story that is essentially three novels in one, this book lingers in the mind long after the last page is turned.
MAKING DREAMS A REALITY
HAVE you ever felt like you were meant for more?
Or did you want to make your dreams a reality but felt like something was holding you back?
Your Soul Purpose: Manifest a Life You Love is a practical and engaging guide to manifesting your dream life. Certified life and success coach Aubrey Daquinag guides readers through the process of navigating their inner world to manifest their dreams.
Using self-discovery exercises and techniques, learn how to tap into the power of your subconscious mind, connect with the deeper meaning behind your desires, trust your intuition, and set clear intentions to create soul-aligned success. Daquinag shares relatable stories and deep-dives into psychology and neuroscience to help you get out of your own way and create a life that makes you feel alive.
Daquinag is a photographer, coach, content creator and author of Wander Love. Her work has taken her around the world on paid partnerships for tourism boards, airlines, lifestyle brands and leading publications, including Conde Nast Traveler, Panasonic LUMIX Australia cameras and Pinterest. She has helped hundreds of ambitious leaders from around the globe create more freedom, fulfilment and soul-aligned success in their lives and businesses.
Whether you’re moving to a new city, seeking a more fulfilling career or simply want to feel more confident, this self-help book is full of insights on how to stop wondering and start walking on a new and more meaningful life path.
NIGHTINGALE
By
Laura E lve r y, His t or ical fic t ion
Reviewed by Karen Weiber, of Books@Stones, Stones Corner
MAYFAIR, 1910. At the age of 90, Florence Nightingale is frail and no longer of sound mind.
After a storied career as a nurse, writer and statistician, she now leads a reclusive existence.
One summer evening, she is astonished to receive a visitor: a young man named Silas Bradley, who claims to have met her during the Crimean War 55 years earlier.
But how can this be? And how does the elusive Jean Frawley connect their two lives?
The narrative unfolds in three parts,
Security, Independence & Peace of Mind
shifting between the perspectives of Florence, Silas and Jean.
Through their interconnected stories, the novel delves into the complexities of war, gender and class and the personal sacrifices made in the pursuit of purpose and care.
This is Laura Elvery’s first novel, having previously published two books of short stories. It is a luminous and imaginative debut which reimagines the life of Florence Nightingale through a blend of historical fiction and ghost story.
STRONG INTEREST IN PREMIUM OVER-50S HOMES
JUST 15 minutes from To owo omba’s CBD, G emLife Highfields Heights is gaining strong interest from over-50s buyers s e eking quality, spac e and lifestyle in a premium gate d c ommunity.
With c onstruction well underway, the res ort is fast b e c oming one of the region’s most anticipate d lifestyle developments.
Positione d on an elevate d site with swe eping rural v iews, the res ort has b e en prais e d for its design, lo cation and value, with ab out 75 p er c ent of the first releas e in Stage 1 already ac c ounte d for
“This is the time to s e cure a quality home for exc ellent value, as pric es are refle ctive of the res ort’s early c onstruction stage,” sales manager Rachael Benham says.
“First homes in Stage 1 are pric e d from $705,000 to $745,000, with b etwe en 195s qm and 214s qm of liv ing spac e.
“Homes are on track for c ompletion in July and August, giv ing buyers the opp ortunity to move in quickly
“Every home includes our premium inclusions as standard – from stone b enchtops and walk-in pantries to
ducte d air-c onditioning, built-in ele ctric fireplac es and s oft-clos e cabinetry.
“Ceiling heights are als o a standout.
“ While our standard liv ing spac es feature generous nine-fo ot c eilings, Stage 1 designs elevate this with s oaring 11-fo ot c eilings – s ome even rake d –creating a s ens e of op enness that buyers truly love.”
The lo cation is another major drawcard at G emLife Highfields.
“One of the biggest things p e ople c omment on is the rural outlo ok,” Rachael says. “ You’re surrounde d by gre en spac e and op en skies, but still clos e to everything you ne e d.”
Buyers are als o lo oking ahead to the res ort’s future facilities.
“The $12.5 million, 3684 s qm Country Club will offer everything from a heate d indo or p o ol and gym to tenpin b owling, a golf simulator, cinema, bar and more,” Rachael says.
GemLife Highfields Heights will host its Open Home Showcase on Saturday, July 12, from 10am12.30pm, at 108 Woolmer Road, Highfields. Registration is essential by Thursday, July 10, at gemlife.com.au/ events/ghh-open-homeshowcase-20250712/
RECORD HIGH PRICES PAID
RETIREMENT BRINGS A SPARK TO JOHN’S LIFE
WHO says retirement is for slowing down? Not prolific author John Thomps on-Gray
The 81-year-old retire e turne d keyb oard warrior in his golden years, pursuing his passion for writing and p enning s even publishe d novels.
While it’s well do cumente d that physical activ ity c ould help ward off dementia, re c ent res earch from the University of South Australia suggests retire es who take up hobbies c ould als o b e ke eping their minds young.
The study finds c ertain typ es of s e dentary b ehav iour c ould b e b eneficial in delaying or preventing dementia by giv ing the brain a ‘workout’
It sp e cifically highlights reading, listening to music, playing an instrument, crafting, s o cialising and even religious activ ities, such as praying.
A TriC are Compton G ardens resident, John agre es.
“I’m c ertainly exercising my mind when I write,” he says.
“I was an engine er my entire life, now I engine er b oth fiction and nonfiction in a really p ositive, supp ortive env ironment at my retirement v illage.”
John lives at TriC are Compton G ardens, Brisbane, where residents are enc ourage d to pursue their passions and take up thos e s e cret ambitions which often take a back
s eat during working life. “The b eauty of retiring is that it has given me time to do what I always wante d, and TriC are has given me the spac e, a supp ortive env ironment, and allowe d me the opp ortunity to give writing a s erious go,” John says.
“I’ve b e en fortunate enough to have my works publishe d, but really, that’s just the icing on the cake. I’m surrounde d here by friends, exploring new horizons and taking up passion proje cts. It’s just a fe eling of great joy and excitement. And if it helps ke ep our minds sharp, well that’s even b etter ” Village manager Simon Bass ett says John’s attitude and suc c ess are inspiring and infe ctious.
“ We have residents taking up activ ities they never thought they’d b e able to rev isit,” Simon says.
“It’s not only writing. We have painters and musicians who are developing thes e hidden talents.
“It’s s o rewarding to enc ourage and foster thes e ambitions and s e e the residents flourish.”
TriC are supp orts residents across all its retirement v illages to pursue their passions and develop new skills and talents. All TriC are Villages have a c omprehensive program of activ ities that supp orts residents pursue their dream hobbies.
Visit tricare.com.au
John Thompson-Gray in France, researching his story about Toulouse Lautrec
THE 2025 Sunshine Coast Chamb er Music Festival pres ents a sumptuous line-up of ac claime d artists, under the overall artistic dire ction of Dr Lynne Bradley and James Le es.
AquaVista Penthous e at Cotton Tre e hosts the s old-out op ening p erformanc e on Friday, June 6, at 5pm: Suns et Salon – There’s no Plac e Like Home, featuring lo cal tenor Tobias Merz, Mark Connors (piano) and Fiona Jopp (danc e).
Buderim War Memorial Hall will host the Paradis o Strings on Saturday, June 7, at 7pm – Cinema Classics by C andlelight (b o okings through SCCMF.c om.au).
Internationally ac claime d classical guitarist Karin Schaupp and Alex Raineri on piano (picture d) pres ent F lavours of
THE Merryatric Players are back with another high-energy musical c ome dy, You Ca n’t Say That!
Step into the vibrant world of 1960s Australia, where love, change and s elf-dis c overy c ollide for a group of spirite d women in a dazzling, musical showdown. The rules are simple: navigate relationships, embrac e lib eration and unlo ck the journey of a lifetime.
The c omp etition heats up with an unforgettable retro s oundtrack of hits including Unde r the Boardwalk, My Bo y
S pain in an afterno on c onc ert at The Events Centre, C aloundra, on Sunday, June 8, at 2pm (b o okings at The Events Centre or through SCCMF.c om.au).
The c entrepie c e gets underway in Buderim Village Park on Sunday, June, 8 at 5pm. Celebrating Kabi Kabi Country is a stunning fre e c onclusion to the festival, dire cte d by Traditional Owner and festival Elder, Auntie Helena Gulash, with a star-studde d cast of First Nations p erformers. Register at SCCMF.c om.au.
L oll i pop, Q ue Se ra Se ra and L o c omot ion.
From I Wa nt to Hold Your Ha nd to Eve r yone’s Someb ody’s Fo ol, music s ets the stage for hilarious twists, touching moments and game show susp ens e.
WHERE: The Events Centre, 20 Minchinton Stre et, C aloundra.
WHEN: June 19 at 11am, and June 20 at 2pm.
TICKETS: All tickets are $25 each. Visit the events c entre.c om.au/event/you-cantsay-that-the-merryatric-players/ or call the b ox offic e on 5491 4240.
GET ready for an opportunity to learn and hone your art skills with a selection of workshops offered over nine days at the biennial Buderim Craft Cottage Winter School 2025.
Cottage resident Jenny Williams says this major event in the arts calendar plays a significant role in fostering the local art scene: “The impressive list of tutors signifies our commitment to be a place of learning, community and arts hub contributing to the vibrant art scene on the Sunshine Coast.”
Workshops in the program will cater for a range of interests. Included are traditional arts of watercolour and acrylic, together with contemporary mixed media, silversmithing, collagraphy, drawing and
JOIN renowne d linguist and c ommunicator Profess or Roly Suss ex for a thought-provoking talk on the hidden vulnerabilities of our digital world.
Drawing from de cades of exp erienc e in linguistics and c ommunication, he will unpack how language plays a crucial role in digital de c eption, cyb ers e curity awareness and the way we navigate information online.
Topics include: the language of online s cams and manipulation; misinformation and trust in the age of AI; and how to
calligraphy. Workshops will appeal to beginners through to those wanting to strengthen and deepen their craft.
Internationally recognised, Launceston-based pastel artist Leoni Duff will be a highlight of the Winter School, as will be Melbourne-based master calligrapher Gyounghee Lee.
The guest Artist Talk by artist and art therapist Ali Gillett will explore how understanding our subconscious can transform how we create.
WHERE: Buderim Craft Cottage 5 Main Street, Buderim.
WHEN: Various times from Saturday, July 5, to Sunday, July 13.
TICKETS: Various prices, via buderimcraftcottage.com.au
b e c ome a more critical digital c ommunicator. At the c onclusion of his insightful pres entation, Prof Suss ex will take questions.
WHERE: The J Theatre, 60 No osa Drive, No osa Heads.
WHEN: Thurs day, June 26, at 7pm
TICKETS: $39 adult / $35 c onc ession. Visit thej.c om.au/roly-suss ex/
“What’s done cannot be undone.”
Experience the thrill of Shakespeare’s gripping dark tragedy as ambition and fate collide in this bold new production by award-winning NSW-based theatre compnay, Sport For Jove.
Tue 22 Jul, 10.30am & 7pm
BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE
When Mimì meets Rodolfo, it’s love at first touch. Puccini’s score has always captured the soaring spirit of young love, and this new production breathes fresh life into one of the world’s favourite operas.
Experience the original bohemian love story that inspired Moulin Rouge! Sat 2 Aug, 7pm
Photo: Jeff Busby
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principle arts investment and advisory body.
Cruise natural history
I’ve live d in Australia all my life and I’ve travelle d extensively but I’d never v isite d our clos est neighb our, Papua New Guinea (PNG).
I de cide d that it was time to pay a v isit, cruising from Brisbane on P&O’s Pacif ic E nc ounte r
I exp e cte d an overs eas holiday without the long-haul flight and the jet lag.
I exp e cte d tropical weather and a floating res ort.
I did not exp e ct to b e move d. But move d I was.
I was move d by the children, the subsistenc e liv ing and the p overty, the military history and the loss of life, as well as the natural b eauty – s o many exp erienc es, rolle d into four p ort days.
PapuaGuineaNew
ome lo cal currency (kina) with me, but the lo cals did ac c ept Australian currency in cash. There were no cre dit card facilities.
of the dark gre en, lush, rugge d mountains was breathtaking.
I was taken around Kaib ola v illage by a lo cal, Bens on. Another culture sho ck. There is no ele ctricity nor running water. Water is c olle cte d from a nearby spring. Pigs and chickens roam fre ely Co c onuts and taro are plentiful, staple fo o ds.
Kiriwina is a tender p ort and P&O offers no tours.
If you’re older or not very mobile, the b est b et is probably to stay on the ship as there are no tourist facilities. Als o, the queue for the tender back to the ship was hot and long with no s eating.
The next p ort was Rabaul. I chos e to do a World War II tour there. I was glad that I hadn’t chos en to sp end my time in Rabaul as it is just an industrial p ort. It als o felt s omewhat unsafe s o I was glad to b e part of a tour
The natural s c enery of the dark blue, glassy Coral Sea s et against the backdrop
We stopp e d at a Japanes e barge tunnel. Barges were towe d out to s ea from there and then back into the tunnel to hide them from the Allies. Dug out by the pris oners of war, hundre ds of tunnels are found in the area.
We als o stopp e d at the b eautifully maintaine d B ita Paka War Cemetery. This c emetery mainly c ompris es graves of thos e lost during WWII. The rows of headstones were shudderingly awful to s e e and the numb er of unknown s oldiers’ remains was very sad.
The final p ort was the exquisite Conflict Islands: ‘Paradis e in the Coral Sea’
Conflict Islands was day-tripp er heaven and c onveniently cashless. The c olours of the Coral Sea defie d b elief: s o clear and gre en and yet s o blue.
Combine d with fine, white sand and lush, tropical vegetation, I felt like I was on a mov ie s et.
I meandere d along the sand spit and lolle d in the warm, aquamarine water
Later in the day, I b oarde d the Unders ea Explorer and cruis e d around a few of the 21 islands that
LEONIE JARRETT explores new territory to Australia’s north and is thrilled to discover a land of culture, beauty and intrigue.
PNG is the s e c ond-largest c ountry (after Australia) in the South Pacific.
The first p ort of this cruis e was the town of Alotau.
I was sho cke d at the p overty, sho cke d to learn that the vast majority of p e ople are subsistenc e farmers and sho cke d that most p e ople in PNG have no ac c ess to ele ctricity
I was als o sho cke d at the widespread chewing of Betel nuts by children through to elderly p e ople. This stimulant rots te eth. It als o dyes lips, mouths and te eth re d.
The next p ort was the gorge ous Kiriwina Island. The b each – golden sand and turquois e water – is stunning.
Lo cals offer rides in dug-out cano es for a bargain pric e of $5. I wishe d I had
IMAGES: LEONIE JARRETT
Local children sing for the tourists at Kaibola Village, Kiriwina Island
Dugout cano es at Ki riwina Island
Cute-as-a-button kiddies in Alotau make up the group. Bliss!
Back on the Pacif ic E nc ounte r for the two s ea days to Brisbane, I refle cte d on the culture sho ck I had exp erienc e d, the history less ons I had learne d and the stunning natural b eauty I had s e en. PNG is on Australia’s do orstep but it s e ems a world away
Four p ort days in a 10-day voyage left plenty of time to relax and enjoy the ship.
At 2900 pass engers and 1100 crew, the Pacif ic E nc ounte r was the biggest cruis e ship I had saile d on in a few years.
I had forgotten the advantage of a big ship: multiple eating areas, bars and lounges, various p o ols (including an adults-only version), thre e kids’ clubs, an adventure activ ities area calle d P&O E dge, a gym, spa ... the list of facilities app ears endless.
There are organis e d activ ities all day long, with indo or s eating areas and outdo or sun lounges everywhere.
One of the top p erks of a cruis e for me is the choic e to do as much or as little as I want. If you want to participate in a group activ ity, there are plenty to cho os e from. If you want to curl up in a c omfy chair and read or p e ople watch, there are c osy sp ots galore.
The entertainment options on a big ship are many and varie d, to o. There s e eme d to b e live music in multiple sp ots on the ship all day. And the shows in the theatre were first class.
Exp eriencing PNG v ia the P&O cruis e ship was a wonderful c ombination of c omfort and s e curity alongside culture, history and natural b eauty
* The wr ite r t ravell ed c our tesy of Cit ro
a nd w ith the assis ta nc e of P&O C r uises. The vo ya ge was call ed ‘Ne w G uine a Isla nd E nc ounte r’. I n e arly 2025, P&O’s Pacif ic Adve nt ure a nd Pacif ic E nc ounte r integ rated int o the Car nival f l e e t, b e c oming Car nival Adve nt ure a nd Car nival E nc ounte r. Whil e s ail ing unde r ne w names, b o th shi p s w ill c ont inue t o offe r the s ame g re at h ol iday exp e r ie nc e. Vo ya ges f rom now unt il 2026 are availabl e t o b o ok v ia po c r uises.c om.au
AUGUST 2025
North Queensland S avannah (12 Days) - CLOSING SOON
SEPTEMBER 2025
Fraser Island Whale Watch (4 Days)
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers (4 Days)
Flinders Ranges (11 Days)
Brisbane Sights at the Star Casino (3 Days)
NOVEMBER 2025
Tasmania (15 Days)
O’Reillys Rainforest Retreat (4 Days)
FEBRUARY 2026
Scottish Tattoo in Brisbane
MARCH 2026
Norfolk Island
O’Reillys
APRIL 2026
Easter in Port Stephens
Alpine High Country to the Murray Delta
P&O’s Pac ific Encounter
PACK the car, download the ro de o road trip tunes and hit the highway for a helluva go o d time at the Mount Isa Mines Ro de o from August 8-10.
In 1959, a group of p e ople with passion and an intrinsic s ens e of p otential forme d the Mount Isa Rotary Ro de o Inc.
Their vision was to put the new, remote town of Mount Isa on the map and rais e funds for charity organisations in the new city.
Through 63 years of whip-cracking vision and de dication, the event has evolve d into legendary status.
The event is part of the Australian Professional Ro de o Ass o ciation’s (APRA’s) national circuit.
The ro de o s che dule at Buchanan Park Events Complex includes the Bull Ride (Op en, Over-40s, 2nd and Junior Division), Saddle Bronc (Op en and 2nd
Division), Bareback (Op en and 2nd Division), Rop e and Tie (Op en), Ste er Wrestling, Team Roping, Ladies’ Barrel Rac e, Ladies’ Breakaway Roping and Mini Bull Rides.
As the largest ro de o in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the biggest in the world, it’s where champions return to defend their titles, rising stars carve their names into history and eight ele ctrifying s e c onds can fe el like an eternity
For thre e adrenaline-fuelle d days, Mount Isa c omes alive with the raw p ower of bull riding, bronc busting, barrel racing, roping and more, as the world’s toughest c owb oys and c owgirls battle for s ome of the most c ovete d buckles in ro de o.
Set against the backdrop of re d dirt and Outback pride, this is more than a c omp etition—it’s a c elebration of grit, glory and the untame d spirit of ro de o.
For tickets, go to mountisaminesro de o.flicket.io
Grand Floral Parade (Reserved Seating) Private Gardens Tour, Jondaryan, The Empire Theatre, Railway Museum, Esk, Lake Somerset/Wivenhoe, Laidley
FARE INCLUDES: Motel
PICKUP AND
Coast, Caboolture, Redcliffe, Brisbane Surburbs, Redlands, Ipswich, Gold Coast, Tweed Heads
COLOURFUL GREAT SOUTHERN ADVENTURE
TRAVEL to the national capital and experience Floriade: Australia’s premier celebration of flowers and largest festival of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
Coastal Variety Tours offers an 11-day Floriade Tour, starting on September 22.
First, guests will visit Toowoomba for the spectacular Carnival of Flowers before travelling the New England Highway through Armidale to arrive in Sydney for another highlight: a guided tour and lunch at the Sydney Opera House.
The tour of Canberra includes Floriade, Parliament House, Cockington Green and the spectacular Tulip Top Farm.
The return journey home wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the magnificent Hunter Valley Gardens, as well as the Hunter Valley Village, winery, cheese tasting and chocolate shop.
Call Coastal Variety Tours on 5530 2363 for a detailed Itinerary.
WHERE IN THE WORLD?
ANCIENT Gre ek life c omes alive in D elphi: 180km northwest of Athens. D elphi’s b eginnings can b e trac e d to the s e c ond millennium B C, but in the 6th c entury B C, it was c onsidere d the religious c entre and symb ol of unity of the ancient Gre ek world. Its most visite d area to day is the arche ological site that is the Sanctuary of Ap ollo, from the Pan-Hellenic era. The stadium (from the 5th c entury B C (but remo delle d with stone s eating and arche d entranc e by the Romans in the 2nd c entury AD) was home to the Pythian G ames from 582 B C, which were held every two years after the Olympic G ames, and include d arts and danc e c omp etitions. Other highlights include the amphitheatre (4th c entury B C but only the Roman ruins remain).
CANBERRA FLORIADE & SYDNEY
Hunter Valley, Sydney Opera House, NSW South Coast, Toowoomba, New England, NSW South Highlands
FARE INCLUDES:
Motel Accommodation and All Breakfasts and Dinners, All Admissions and Touring.
PICKUP AND
Sunshine Coast,
Redcliffe, Brisbane Surburbs, Redlands, Ipswich, Gold Coast, Tweed Heads
EUROPEAN TIMELESS TRACKS
France, Switzerland, Italy and Norway
Norway in a Nutshell®
Discover the very best of Norway as you journey through spectacular fjords and ride the world-famous Flåm Railway, an inspiring experience from start to finish.
Highlights Oslo • Flåm • Bergen Valid for travel Select dates until 01 June 2027
Milan to Zurich via the Glacier and Bernina Express Trains
Travel from the city streets of Milan to the soaring Swiss Alps, where snow-capped peaks and mountain scenery create a stunning alpine experience. Highlights Milan • St Moritz • Zermatt
Classics of France, Switzerland and Italy
Embark on a rail odyssey through Europe’s iconic cities, featuring memorable experiences and journeys aboard the Glacier and Bernina Express trains.
Highlights Paris • Geneva • Zermatt • St Moritz • Venice • Florence • Rome
THERE’S something magical about watching the world roll by from the comfort of a train carriage, especially in Europe.
For travellers who crave a deeper connection to the places they visit, train travel offers more than just a way to get from one destination to another. It’s a front-row seat to the ever-changing landscapes of fjords, alpine peaks, mediaeval cities and glittering lakes.
Europe might be small in size, but it’s vast in history and culture. With about 50 countries and 200 languages, every stop reveals a new story and perspective.
Railbookers curates smooth, memorymaking rail journeys that capture the essence of the continent through its cities, countryside and the special moments that happen along the way.
In Norway, trace a path between towering mountains and deep-blue fjords, weaving through UNESCO-listed landscapes on the legendary Flåm Railway that ascends steeply to over 865m above sea level. Taste local craft beer in the storybook village, cruise past still waters surrounded by soaring cliffs and feel the thrill of a rib boat safari.
In Switzerland, feel as though you’ve stepped into a snow globe, with every turn
of the track revealing a new postcardperfect moment. The Glacier Express, Bernina Express and GoldenPass Line offer views of frozen waterfalls, hillside villages and beautiful viaducts. Experiences such as a gourmet dinner cruise on Lake Lucerne and a day trip to the summit of Jungfraujoch add even more wonder to this alpine adventure.
For lovers of classic cities, Railbookers connects Paris, Geneva and Venice in one memorable itinerary. Sip coffee beneath the Eiffel Tower, wander Geneva’s lakefront, ride through alpine landscapes on worldclass trains and glide through canals.
Then there’s the route from Milan to Zurich, where art, fashion and natural beauty come together. From viewing Da Vinci’s the last supper to admiring the Matterhorn in Zermatt, each stop offers something remarkable.
Contact your Travellers Choice agent before June 30 to book with Railbookers. Visit travellerschoice.com.au
UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH AUSTRALIA ESCAPE THE ORDINARY IN THE PHILIPPINES
CT TRAVEL offers a range of affordable travel experiences, including to the Queensland Savannah and South Australia’s Flinders Ranges.
Embark on an adventure with fellow explorers into the North Queensland Outback, where you will be captivated by the vast landscapes stretching along the horizon.
Spend days uncovering rich pioneering history, fossil-filled lands and the industrious communities residing in this remarkable region.
Start with a flight to Townsville, followed by a warm reception in Charters
Towers. The next morning, prepare for a visit to the renowned Texas Longhorns, complete with cowboy hats and boots.
A safari tour will introduce guests to these unique animals, accompanied by a traditional camp-oven damper, billy tea and a tour of the Gallery of Horns museum.
In Cloncurry, visit John Flynn Place Museum, which honours the founder of the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
In Mount Isa, experience an authentic underground adventure at Hard Times Mine.
Then, journey on The Gulflander Train through diverse landscapes, travelling to Normanton and Karumba.
Your exploration concludes with the
IN AN era where travel dreams often collide with crowded destinations and overdone itineraries, one website is rewriting the script for Australian holidaymakers seeking something truly extraordinary
TropicalPhilippineIslandsHoliday.com.au is more than just a travel site.
It’s a gateway to the hidden gems of the Philippines, designed with Australian explorers in mind.
Run by passionate travel experts who understand Filipino charm and Aussie expectations, the site offers handpicked itineraries, cultural insights and local experiences that dive deep into the heart of the islands — far beyond the usual tourist traps.
Take Palawan (pictured), for instance. Known as the Philippines’ last frontier, this island paradise is brought to life through the website’s expertly crafted travel plans, stunning visuals and downloadable guides.
Whether you’re daydreaming about the turquoise lagoons of El Nido, the subterranean river of Puerto Princesa, or the raw beauty of Coron, this site helps you imagine and book your escape with ease.
But what sets the website apart isn’t just the destinations—it’s the approach.
The website highlights eco-conscious travel, supports local Filipino communities
stunning Cobbold Gorge, silently gliding through its narrow, majestic walls while observing freshwater crocodiles.
Meanwhile, travellers can explore the majestic Ikara-Flinders Ranges and the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary as part of an itinerary in South Australia.
Embark on a remarkable expedition to discover the natural amphitheatres and the two billion-year-old landscapes.
Over the course of 11 days, the immersive journey travels through some of South Australia’s most iconic destinations, uncovering hidden gems and creating lasting memories.
The journey starts with a scenic drive through the Adelaide Hills to the Barossa Valley, to visit Mengler Hill Lookout for
and offers practical tips that help you explore with confidence, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned island hopper
With direct flights from Australia and a favourable exchange rate, the Philippines is becoming an increasingly popular choice for Aussies chasing value without sacrificing adventure.
This platform makes planning easier, safer and more inspiring.
So, if you’re yearning to swap city noise for palm trees, reef dives and authentic island culture, it might be time to bookmark your next great journey
TropicalPhilippineIslandsHoliday.com.au is your passport to paradise .
Call Frances Siega 0447 644 282 and Brad Eriksson 0487 230 827, email info@ tropicalphilippineislandsholiday.com.au or visit the website.
panoramic views and explore a unique sculpture park.
Then, proceed to Clare Valley via Saddleworth and Auburn, and visit Bungaree Station: an historic merino sheep farm still managed by its founding family
Next, head to the Southern Flinders Ranges via Horrocks Pass to Port Augusta, and then to Quorn for the Silo Light Show At Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, observe yellow-footed rock wallabies feeding in their natural habitat.
Additionally, a flight over Lake Eyre will offer a rare opportunity to witness the lake filled with floodwaters flowing down from Queensland.
Visit cttravel.com.au or call 5391 1648.
With Quizmaster Garry Reynolds
1. In which c ountry did the c offe e drink galao originate?
2. Who was the author of Charl ie a nd the Ch o c olate Fac tor y?
3. What is the capital of C anada?
4. What c olour are flamingos at birth?
5. Who was the Roman go d of the s ea?
6. What is the name of the p o op pro duc e d by sp erm whales?
7. What is the name for the grounds of a university?
8. Who was the first female premier of NSW?
9. Which bird can fly backwards?
10. What is the name of the fictional pirate with a p et parrot on his shoulder?
11. What is the largest b one in the b o dy?
12. What is the name of the ‘Lion King’?
13. What is the clos est star to Earth?
14. What is the hardest natural substanc e?
15. What is the basic unit of life?
16. In which UK band was Harry Styles a memb er?
17. What is the name of the dog in the Pe a nuts c omic strip?
18. What is the fastest land animal?
19. How many Olympic rings are there?
20. Which fruit is the bas e for guacamole?
10. ongL John .erSilv 11. .uremF 12. ba.Sim 13. Sun. 14. Diamond. 15. Cell. 16. One Deir ction.
5. Neptune. 6. bAm ergris. 7. C ampus. 8. Kristina .eneallyK
4.
3.
1. ortugal.P 2. oaldR Dahl.
wa.Otta
.eyGr
9. Hummingbird.
17. Sno .opy
18. Che etah. 19. e.Fiv 20. oAv cado.
location for
Pancake recipe cooked without one ingredient (5)
Prayer at four excited
Sun worshipper is pinched by perverted truant (8)
Ecstasy taken by speed freaks in
Tailored suit immersed in fresh water (8)
Found a solution to detours
surrounded by cricketers winds up (5)
2 Person who deceives children in front of consumer (7)
3 Mock an escapologist (5)
4 Translation of the SOS call is barely adequate (10)
5 Areas of eyes or ears could be painful (4)
7 Shakespearean character reverted to casual form of greeting (7)
8 Bombshell is admitted by drunken purser (8)
9 Stair rail is draped in rag (8) 14 Fly with a stinger (10)
chilly circumstances (8)
(8)
and died (7)
Way left open to retain batting order (7) 21 Small place – it is located
24 Sedate senior accepting great honour (5)
25 Bar served up containers of beer (4)
QUICK CROSSWORD
WORD STEP
Complete the list by changing one letter at
8 Law (11)
10 Very large, horned, plant-eating animals (6)
12 Representation of an abstract meaning (11)
15 Hundreds and – (9) 17 Destroy (9)
18 Prizes (6)
Self (3)
Edible shoots (9)
above (5) 5 Decline (6)
6 Long-lasting (9)
7 Laziness (5)
21 Ignominious failure (6)
23 Bovine ruminant (US) (5)
25 Sun-dried brick (5)
28 Ogle (3)
