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Editor’s note
A
s we hurtle towards the end of the year and start thinking about how we can create a magical Christmas for our loved ones, why not take a few moments to think about what you want from 2027 and the years ahead. Has there been a dream languishing in the back of your mind for decades? Did you always want to follow a passion, but took the safe and secure road instead as a career path? Now that you’re retired, do you want more mental stimulation? Do you have a tonne of life experience and wisdom you wish you could do something with? Perhaps a university course is the answer. Hear me out. In this month’s cover story, Russell Phipps talks to some seniors to see why they decided to head back to the classroom. The thought of starting a tertiary course can be daunting at any age, let alone many decades ‘out of the loop’ of study habits, assignment deadlines and general campus life. Being a mature-age student in a
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‘young person’s world’ also has its drawbacks. But those who have tackled the task successfully speak of feeling enriched, fulfilled, challenged. In short, it can be life-changing. And universities welcome over-50s with open arms because of their high degrees of dedication, engagement and positive influence on other, much younger students. It may be just what you’ve been looking for. Or maybe you need to awaken the history buff within first, staying in one of only 40 prison-to-hotel conversions worldwide. Joanne Karcz takes us inside Melbourne’s Pentridge Prison on a National Trust of Victoria tour and on to the Adina Apartment Hotel. The modern hotel includes the Interlude: 19 suites creatively fashioned from adjoining cells of the HeritageListed former prison’s B Division. Turn to page 34 to read more and start planning your next getaway. It’s another big edition, so grab a cuppa, take a seat and get reacquainted with all our regular features and columnists. Until next month, takee care. e. Shirley Sinclair Editor
Contents 4 6 7 8 10 11 12 14 14 18 20 22 24 26 30 31 32 33 34 36 37 38
COVER STORY WHAT’S HIP MUSINGS WITH GARRY AGES AND STAGES HISTORY OUR PEOPLE ACTIVE LIVING FLIPSIDE TECHNOLOGY IN THE COMMUNITY MOTORING REVERSE MORTGAGES FEATURE INSIGHT IN-HOME CARE FEATURE BRAIN MATTERS HEALTH RETIREMENT LIVING WHAT’S ON TRAVEL BOOKS TRIVIA QUIZ PUZZLES
COVER IMAGE: UNIVERSITY OF THE SUNSHINE COAST
10
20
34
33
DISTRIBUTION INQUIRIES distribution@yourtimemagazine.com.au or call 0419 746 894. PUBLISHER Michelle Austin, 5493 1368. EDITOR Shirley Sinclair, editor@yourtimemagazine.com.au ADVERTISING INQUIRIES 0438 717 210 or 0413 855 855, sales@yourtimemagazine.com.au EDITORIAL COPY DEADLINES Third Friday of each month (earlier for Christmas-New Year and Easter). FOR DIGITAL EDITIONS AND MORE yourtimemagazine.com.au Your Time Magazine is locally owned and published by The Publishing Media Company Pty Ltd ATF The Media Trust (“the Publisher”). No part of this publication may be reproduced or copied in any form by any means without the prior written consent of the Publisher. The Publisher does not assume responsibility for, endorse or adopt the content of any advertisements published in Your Time Magazine, either as written copy or inserts, given such content is provided by third parties and contains statements beyond the Publisher’s personal knowledge. The information contained in Your Time Magazine is intended as a guide only and does not represent the view or opinion of the Publisher or its editorial staff. Professional advice should be sought before applying any of the information to particular circumstances. Whilst every reasonable care is taken in the preparation of Your Time Magazine, the Publisher and its editorial staff do not accept liability for any errors or omissions it may contain.
November 2026 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 3
IMAGE: RUSSELL PHIPPS
COVER STORY
Petah Young
Taking life-long learning to new degrees RUSSELL PHIPPS outlines why some over-50s and retirees decide to head back to the classroom and why universities welcome them with open arms.
F
or many soon-to-be retirees, the anticipation of boredom and stagnation is daunting. Others, however, have found a renewed source of vigour through university life. While the thought of going back to school can be a frightening prospect, 58-year-old grandmother Petah Young welcomed the challenge. Recently finding herself medically
retired, she felt she needed to keep her mind stimulated. “Throughout my life, I have always been active and I don’t want to stop now,” she says. After a chat with her husband, she signed up for a double degree in Psychology, Criminology and Justice. “To be in a classroom where there is discussion back and forth is
invigorating,” she says. “We of the older generation seem to have a lot to offer the younger ones through our life experiences.” University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) journalism lecturer Dr Peter English says that older-aged students are welcomed with open arms due to their wealth of knowledge and eagerness to contribute.
He says older students are generally more willing to enter or start conversations, which seems to have a contagious effect on the group. “They are also usually so engaged, asking questions and wanting to know new things, which brings a different level of energy to the classroom,” Dr English says. “It is very satisfying to watch the interactions between older and younger students.” His UniSC colleague Dr Gregory Nash agrees, saying that older students add significantly to any learning group. “Life experience always brings perspectives that school leavers don’t have,” says Dr Nash, who is the discipline leader of Enabling and Engagement Education and program leader of the Tertiary Preparation Pathway in the School of Education and Tertiary Access. “Mature students tend to be more engaged and ask constructive questions that promote and facilitate robust discussion. “Furthermore, mature students tend to be more motivated to study, and this can positively influence school leavers to pay more attention to their studies.” UniSC Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Helen Bartlett says lifelong learning is celebrated on campus. “Many of our mature-age students are retirees, and they bring depth, perspective and curiosity to the classroom,” she says. “Many tell us they feel genuinely welcomed and respected studying alongside younger peers. We truly believe that learning knows no age limit.” But it’s not all beer and skittles for mature-age students. In a study done at La Trobe University, older-aged students have been found to be stigmatised by the
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Professors Nancy Pachana and Gerard Byrne discussing the Ageing Mind Initiative at UQ. younger demographic, who disapprove of older students’ enthusiasm and active engagement. The authors of the study say that older students are perceived as a threat to social and scholastic practices and, consequently, are denied membership as ‘proper’ or ‘normal’ students. The research indicates that the older students were not only aware of the stigma toward their enthusiasm to participate, but that they chose to modify their behaviour. An 18-year-old female student is quoted as saying that older-age students were noticeably less social before and after lectures than the rest of the class. “They completely go against the norm of ‘equality’. Social acceptance appeared to be the last of their concerns,” she says. Similarly, Concordia University PhD candidate Heather Sorella says older-aged women face barriers such as societal stigma and questions surrounding their character as ‘good mothers’. “Gendered ageism also occurs, for example, when women are thought to be beyond the expected age for their
academic progression,” she says. “Mature students may also face gendered discrimination due to perceived declining ‘attractiveness’ and social value with age.” Professor of Clinical Geropsychology, clinical geropsychologist and neuropsychologist Dr Nancy Pachana agrees that ageism occurs. However, she says some older students suffer what she calls ‘the ageism creep’. Through her studies at the University of Queensland (UQ), she has found older students are sometimes labelled with a stereotype of being too old to contribute. She says this stereotype is rife throughout the world. “In fact, the World Health Organization has shown that one in two people globally hold moderately to severely ageist attitudes,” she says. She says that while all demographics can suffer this ageist attitude, it particularly affects the older generations. “Studies have found that it can rob us of seven-and-a-half years of life through lost opportunities,” she says. To help combat this, the concept of
age-friendly universities has been implemented widely. UQ and UniSC, for example, have joined a worldwide fraternity of universities that aspire to make their campuses more accessible to olderaged students. To gain entry into this fraternity, the universities need to implement 10 principles. Among them are: • To promote personal and career development in the second half of life and to support those who wish to pursue second careers. • To recognise the range of educational needs of older adults (from those who were early school-leavers through to those who wish to pursue Masters or PhD qualifications). • To promote intergenerational learning in order to facilitate the reciprocal sharing of expertise between learners of all ages. UniSC and UQ also offer age-friendly support groups: • UniSC OWLS: an older-age student group that aims to help members navigate university life from a more mature perspective • UQ Mature Mates: an active, informal peer-run online community and forum for older-age students to chat, share advice and organise social campus events. Recently, Sharon Jones, 61, received UniSC’s top graduating honour at her graduation ceremony. UniSC Chancellor Sir Angus Houston says it wasn’t just Sharon’s academic excellence and commitment that earned her the Chancellor’s Medal, but also her commitment to grassroots conservation and supporting others. “Sharon not only redefined her own identity but also encouraged matureaged students to pursue university with courage and dedication,” he says. When COVID-19 annihilated her
IMAGE: COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY OF THE SUNSHINE COAST
COVER STORY
Sharon Jones. work as a travel agent, she knew it was time to take a bold plunge into the adventure of a lifetime, enrolling in a university degree at the age of 57. Sharon says that when she enrolled, she was full of self-doubt and had no university experience. “I 100 per cent never thought I had what it took to be a university student,” she says. During her time at university, Sharon made lasting friendships with students across different age groups and says she never really felt like a matureaged student. “While my age may have made me something of an outlier in some scenarios, I never felt excluded or treated differently from anyone else - only supported and encouraged,” she says. “The person I was when I began university is very different from the person I became by the end of that journey. It was truly life-changing, and my life has been enriched in so many ways.”
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What’s hip No, not the replacement surgery type of ‘hip’. It’s a selection of on-trend snippets that could include places to dine, travel destinations, where to shop, what to see and visit, as well as what to watch, read and listen to, so you can stay up to date with family, friends and neighbours of all ages.
What to book THE countdown is on to one of Queensland’s biggest celebrations of music, arts and culture, with the Woodford Folk Festival returning for its 39th event. From December 27 to January 1, the picturesque Woodfordia site will transform into a bustling cultural village, welcoming more than 2800 artists and presenters across 1500 performances, workshops and presentations. Sunshine Coast favourites The Dreggs are among the big names on the bill, joining Peter Garrett & The Alter Egos, Kate Miller-Heidke and Sons of the East. And there’s more than music on offer. Comedy, circus, cabaret, arts, crafts, dance workshops and wellness activities ensure there is something for just about everyone. Festival director Amanda Jackes says the magic of Woodford lies in the community it creates. “For six days it becomes a world of music and art, and everyone who walks through the gate helps to make it special.” Day and season tickets, including camping options, are available at woodfordfolkfestival.com
What to see
Back in the day...
REMEMBER that extraordinary voice that first captured the nation’s attention on Australian Idol more than two decades ago? Well, Anthony Callea is bringing it to the Sunshine Coast this month as part of his national Connection Tour. The singer, who has enjoyed a successful recording and performing career since his television breakthrough, is stripping things back for a more intimate concert experience. Accompanied by an acoustic band, Callea will revisit songs from his multi-platinum albums alongside familiar favourites, sharing the stories and emotions behind the music. He will perform at The Events Centre, Caloundra, on Saturday, November 14, at 7.30pm. Tickets are $84.90 for adults and $79.90 concession. Visit theeventscentre.com.au or call 5491 4240.
WHO would have thought that four Swedish pop stars, dressed in flamboyant satin, platform boots and some of the most memorable stage costumes of the 1970s, would still have us singing along half a century later? In November 1976, ABBA released Arrival in Australia, an album that would become one of the defining soundtracks of the decade. And what an album it was. There was Dancing Queen, the theatrical Money, Money, Money and Knowing Me, Knowing You. Australian fans even received a little something extra, with Fernando included on the local release, unlike the original Swedish version. For anyone who grew up in the ’70s, the memories are hard to escape. Vinyl records spinning on the family turntable, ABBA posters adorning bedroom walls and teenagers singing into hairbrushes while imagining themselves as Agnetha or Frida. By then, ABBA mania was already in full swing, following the group’s Eurovision-winning Waterloo in 1974. But Queensland fans were left disappointed when Brisbane was left off the 1977 Australian tour itinerary. It prompted a ‘Bring ABBA to Brisbane’ rally in King George Square in October 1976. However, it didn’t work and Brisbane missed out. Meanwhile, Arrival debuted at number one on the Australian album charts, spending a total of eight weeks at the top.
Where to visit IF a little luxury is on your Christmas wish list, Brisbane’s Emporium Hotel South Bank might be just the place to put your feet up. The independently owned hotel has ranked 12th in the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards, making it the only Queensland hotel on the Australian and New Zealand list. It also claimed the number one spot for Australia and the South Pacific in Tripadvisor’s 2026 Travellers’ Choice Awards. The South Bank property boasts 143 suites, a 23-metre rooftop infinity pool and four dining venues, including the 1920s-inspired Reserve Wine Bar. For more information or bookings, visit emporiumhotels.com.au
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MUSINGS WITH GARRY
Specialists in Aged Care and NDIS Package Customers Retiree GARRY REYNOLDS shares his thoughts on the world around us. THE HARDEST WORD THERE comes a time in life when you realise that ‘sorry’ is one of the most fragile words we have. It’s small, it’s soft and it’s often nowhere near big enough to carry the weight of what we mean. We’ve all lived long enough to know this. Elton John sang it plainly: “Sorry seems to be the hardest word.” And he was right – not because the word is difficult to say, but because sometimes it isn’t enough. A friend told me recently about a rift with her sister that had stretched across years. “I kept practising my apology,” she said, “but I realised she didn’t need the word – she needed me to understand the hurt.” It reminded me of those old Brenda Lee lyrics: “I’m sorry, so sorry”, where the apology is heartfelt but helpless. The feeling is real, but the repair requires more. Another woman shared a story about her adult son. She apologised for being too busy, too stressed, too distracted when he was young. “He said he forgave me,” she told me, “but I could feel the wound still sitting there.”
• Adjustable Mattress & Bases tioonns • Massage feature available - programable positions • Lift Beds • Hospital grade foam mattresses with anti-pressure comfort layer So she stopped apologising and started showing up – for coffee, for birthdays, for the small everyday moments she once rushed past. It wasn’t the word that healed things: it was the presence. Sometimes the person we need to apologise to is ourselves ... For staying too long. For leaving too late. For ignoring instincts that whispered truth. Bryan Adams captured that ache in Please Forgive Me, but forgiveness – especially self-forgiveness – is rarely a single act. It’s a slow, steady rebuilding. And then there are the apologies that come too late. OneRepublic sang it bluntly: “It’s too late to apologise.” Many of us know that feeling: the moment when the door has closed, not out of anger, but out of time. The older we get, the more we understand that repair is rarely achieved by a single word. It’s a series of small, consistent gestures. “Sorry” may open the door, but what comes after is what matters, because in the end, the deepest healing doesn’t come from the apology: it comes from the change.
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November 2026 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 7
AGES & STAGES
Life in the slow lane By Mocco Wollert
THE word ‘underwear’ means a garment worn under something. Not so anymore. “Look,” said my friend, “at that girl in the pink leotards. What would you call that?” I would call it underwear. It really left nothing to the imagination. “How can they wear this when they go shopping?” I had to agree. These days there is little difference between swimwear, gymwear and underwear. Call me a prude, but I would never have gone out publicly in something like that. Advertising the ‘goods’ to everyone. I began thinking generally about underwear, especially women’s, which have so many different descriptions: bloomers, the unmentionables, panties, knickers – all meant to protect women’s modesty. The bloomers were substantial garments, and I still saw them in use when I was a young girl. At least the elderly ladies still wore them. I used to giggle when I saw my middle-aged neighbour hanging her bloomers on the clothes hoist. They billowed in the wind like sails. Advertising of underwear, these
days, has no holds barred. Recently I saw two burly men, wearing nothing but ‘jockeys’, strolling across a large television screen at a street crossing. They were fooling about on that screen – nearly movie theatre size – advertising a well-known brand of men’s underpants. Their ‘bits’ were as clearly outlined as if they were wearing nothing. I was surprised that there wasn’t a car crash at that crossing. Again, call me a prude, but I really did not want to see ‘the secret life of men’ outlined in every detail on a big screen. Underwear was not always worn, especially by poor people. Men might have worn a type of loincloth. Later they wore long johns, Y-fronts or boxers. Maybe, if comparing the
two men advertising underpants with something like the codpieces of Henry VIII’s, their display would have to be called modest. Women also used their undergarments to enhance their figures. I once bought a corset – white lace, guaranteed to lift the bosom and nip in the waist. It did all that, but by nipping in the waist, the surplus fat from there was pushed to the hips and derriere. I never wore it again. The word ‘pants’ comes, of course, from the word pantaloon. Pantaloons were pretty, adorned with lace and ribbons and going down to the knees of ladies. I have a sneaky suspicion that they were meant to be ‘glimpsed’ by the opposite sex. Gradually over the years, especially in the 20th century, underwear became increasingly substantial. Then there is swimwear: the bikini is here to stay; I suppose the thin gym-wear too. The latest in underwear is ‘the thong.’ I always thought ‘a thong’ was a sandal, but apparently it is now worn on a different part of the body. Small, unsubstantial, I don’t think it is meant to protect anything. Readers, may you choose your underwear wisely. Email mocco.wollert@bigpond.com
Life’s an adventure By Cheryl Lockwood
HAVING grown up near the mighty Murray River, I am quite familiar with boats. Rowing a dinghy or paddling a canoe? No problem. Operating an outboard? Even easier! Surely punting on the Cherwell River in Oxford, UK would be an opportunity for me to show all and sundry my affinity with another form of watercraft. “You’ve got to try it!” suggested my son, who had once spent time in Cambridge, where the activity is also popular. I’m glad it was not a busy day on the Cherwell; the less witnesses to my punting efforts, the better. He made it sound like a piece of cake, as did the young people in charge of hiring the boats and providing instruction to wandering tourists like myself. The only cake involved was the piece I had with a hot coffee afterwards to celebrate my mostly dry return to the dock. The wooden, punting boats are very long and narrow and are operated by standing on a flat section at the rear of the boat, then propelling and steering the craft with a long, aluminium pole. Back in the olden days, the pole would have been made of wood. In the 16th century, flat-bottomed punts were working boats which were used to move cargo on shallow rivers and marshlands. The name
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originates from the Latin word, ponto, meaning a flat-bottomed boat. In the Victorian era, the railway became the preferred method of transport and punting became more of a leisure activity. The wide, flat base of the boat, which was good for moving heavy goods without tipping, proved to be good for carrying passengers too. Whether they tip passengers out might depend on the person controlling the boat. Sometime in the 1880s, punt racing became a popular activity, especially among the university crowd. Famous punters who raced successfully include authors Aldous Huxley and J.R.R. Tolkien. Clearly, I’m not in their league when it comes to writing or punting. Nowadays, it’s easy enough to hire a punt and The Magdalen Bridge Boathouse had plenty to choose from on the day I was there. After a quick lesson, I was handed the long, metal pole and sent on
my way with a cheery, “Have fun!” There was the option to hire a ‘driver’ to operate the vessel and sit back to enjoy the passing scenery. In my wisdom, or lack of it, I chose to hire the boat and operate it alone. There was room for up to five passengers. I struggled to control the dammed thing with just me and can’t imagine what it would be like with the weight of other people. Armed with a map and simple directions of the route to take, I attempted to navigate through the arches of the lovely stone bridge adjacent to the hire place. The staff would have heard me bouncing their boat off of the walls for the first 10 minutes of the hire period. I suspected I would need longer than an hour’s hire to master the art. The scenery was pretty, but I barely noticed as it took all of my concentration to stay upright and propel the unforgiving craft vaguely forward. At one point, I used tree branches to pull myself along. Not to mention passing under a footbridge by the same method while in a squatting position. Water running down the pole made for wet sleeves and I was relieved when I wobbled back to the dock after zigzagging the river like the ball in a pinball machine. Turns out, punting is not the same as canoeing and definitely harder than operating an outboard! Visit lockwoodfreelance.com
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November 2026 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE
9
HISTORY
Remembering the Coast’s golden days of family fun AUDIENNE BLYTH takes a look back at the much-loved tourist attractions, outings and simple pleasures that shaped childhood memories.
M
any of our favourite memories of growing up on the Sunshine Coast in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s are of tourist attractions that are now gone. In 2026 we are entertained by very different attractions. Remember ‘Big’. The Big Pineapple, the Big Cow, the Big Shell and the Big Stubby are all recalled fondly. As well as entertainment, there were lessons to be learnt. Displays of information were prominent at all these places. The Big Pineapple informed us about the fruit industry while entertaining us with an animal nursery and a train ride. The Big Cow opened in 1976 at a time when the dairy industry was prominent. Staff dressed as milkmaids and, in the restaurant, sold chocolate or strawberry milk from simulated teats. Trips were made around the farm on a trolley behind a tractor with a horn that sounded “moo”. Visitors could watch a cow being milked, visit the animal nursery or go for a bush walk. Just a memory now. The Big Shell featured a wondrous collection of shells from around the oceans
of the world. At the Big Bottle we learnt about the history and use of glass in the thousands of bottles on display and enjoyed the slippery slide. Shells and bottles were collectors’ havens as well. At all these, you could look around for free, I seem to recall. Another collectors’ passion was fossicking for thunder eggs at Eumundi. We enjoyed the Big Castle or Fairytale Castle at Bli Bli, which featured different displays for many years. Dancing dolls seemed to be a favourite. At Suncoast Pioneer Village at Bli Bli we could experience the ‘horse-and-buggy-days’ and find out how our forebears lived. Memorable amongst trips on the Maroochy River was a tour on the Ginger Belle, a replica of an old-time paddle wheeler. The commentary gave us the history of the cane and ginger industries while cruising. Remember Bob Irwin Senior and his Reptile Park at Beerwah? It was a small business and another learning experience. In the 1990s, it evolved to become the famous Australia Zoo, and now attracts
Ted
O’BRIEN MP
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR FAIRFAX
In the 1970s, The House of Bottles at Tewantin with the great slide visitors from all over the world. Water sports have also evolved from Black Hole Waterslide at Currimundi to very different popular attractions in 2026. Crowds used to gather at our beaches to watch the sandcastle competitions, as well as competitions and parades of surf girls and tiny tots. Remember bathtub derbies, mud crab racing and the big swings in parks – removed now “for our safety”? Drive-in theatres were a popular feature with movies suitable for the whole family. The last one closed about 1990. At The World of Matchcraft, Ken
Hughes displayed the results of gluing matches together over 60 years to make remarkable buildings and bridges to scale. At Buderim Zoo and Koala Park, you could take a photo of your children holding a koala and that seemed traditional in the ’70s and ’80s. The Deer Park, Seal Park, Dino’s Fun Park and Super Bee were just a short distance away. All good memories. Thanks to J&J Groves’ 68 Past Tourist Attractions of the Sunshine Coast. Audienne Blyth is a member of the Nambour Historical Museum, open 1-4pm Wednesdays to Fridays, and 10am-3pm on Saturdays.
Delivering for the Sunshine Coast
P: 5479 2800 E: ted.obrien.mp@aph.gov.au W: tedobrien.com.au F: TedOBrienMP Authorised by Ted O’Brien MP, 17 Southern Drive, Maroochydore QLD 4558.
10 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / November 2026
Sunshine Coast
OUR PEOPLE
Love, war and wanderlust: An extraordinary Australian life Anne and Tony Kretschmann are proof that opposites attract. And their love story is certainly one for the books.
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Vietnam veteran and a freespirited traveller who once protested against the war he fought in might sound like the beginning of an unlikely friendship. Instead, it became the foundation of a marriage that has endured for almost six decades. Anne and Tony Kretschmann’s remarkable story is now captured in Gunpowder and Flower Power, a newly released memoir by the Caloundra couple. Part love story, part military history
and part travel adventure, the book chronicles two vastly different lives that collided by chance and grew into a partnership that weathered the aftermath of war, family life, health battles and the passing of time. Tony’s story begins in north Queensland, where his path led him into the Australian Army, Airborne training, service with 1RAR in Malaya and eventually Vietnam with the 9SQN choppers. Anne’s journey started in rural New South Wales before she packed her bags and set off to explore Europe at a time when few young Australian women travelled the world alone. There, she worked in London, where meeting celebrities was the norm. One lived by duty, the other by freedom. One served in a war, while the other questioned it. Yet fate had other plans. The couple first met in an ordinary office on a military base, but the connection was immediate. “Our lives couldn’t have been more different, but the moment I saw her, that was it,” Tony says. “Nearly 60 years later, we’re still proving that opposites can get along.”
For Anne, seeing their story finally in print is both emotional and rewarding. “People see the war, the travel, the adventures as highlights, but the real story is what it takes to build a life together,” she says. “We started this for family to preserve our memories, but it has become so much bigger.” The memoir explores everything from military service and overseas adventures
to raising children, building homes, career changes, and overcoming significant personal challenges. It also documents Tony’s long journey to receive official recognition for his bravery during a 1967 Vietnam rescue operation, for which he was awarded the Chief of Air Force Gold Commendation for Bravery more than 50 years later. Despite the extraordinary events woven throughout its pages, Gunpowder and Flower Power remains grounded in something familiar: the enduring power of love, loyalty and resilience. “People ask how we’ve stayed together so long,” Tony says. “The answer isn’t anything fancy. You just keep turning up for each other.”
The book is available now at https://shorturl.at/ JtFBL and all major online book retailers.
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Sunshine Coast
November 2026 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 11
ACTIVE LIVING
The floor isn’t your enemy: learning how to get up safely and confidently
FIT HAPPENS with Tom Law
CAITLYN HUTH encourages all seniors to practise combining all the elements needed to rise up.
AS I walked along the beachfront the other morning around dawn, I wondered about the swimmers’ mindset as they waded in. The weather is warming up, but the water is still cold and not particularly enticing, at least to me. I couldn’t help but admire those who push themselves to get up early and get their daily dose of exercise. My own experience with my exercise groups has always intrigued and interested me regarding how some prefer to wake early, rather than enjoy the comfort of their warm bed. As a personal trainer, getting up early is part of the job. Like anyone who starts work early, we just do it. It is a choice to get up early and exercise, so I find it interesting to hear what people think about doing it, particularly during winter. Here are a few of my anecdotal findings from my time as a personal trainer, in no specific order: Having a supportive group to exercise with is important; this
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ost people never practise getting up from the floor – and then comes the day they really need to. Here is a question worth sitting with: if you found yourself on the floor right now, could you get back up independently? For many people over 60, the honest answer is uncertain – and that uncertainty itself becomes a source of anxiety that quietly shapes how freely they move through life. Getting up from the floor is not just an emergency skill. It is a meaningful measure of strength, mobility and bodily confidence. Research has even linked the ability to rise from the floor without support to long-term health outcomes and longevity. It is worth taking seriously. Rising from the floor requires a combination of leg strength, hip flexibility, trunk
strength and the coordination to sequence those elements together. All of these can decline gradually with age and reduced activity – often without us noticing until we are unexpectedly on the ground and the path back up feels far less certain than it once did. Add in joint replacements, balance issues, or chronic pain, and the challenge increases. But here is the important part: all of these components respond to training. Getting up from the floor is a skill, and skills can be practised and improved. The most effective technique for most people is to roll to one
side, push up to a hands-andknees position, bring one foot forward into a kneeling lunge, and then use a chair or solid surface for support as you rise. Going slowly and not rushing are all key. The technique matters as much as the strength. The ideal time to practise getting up from the floor is not in an emergency – it is in a controlled, supported setting where you can build strength and familiarity gradually. An exercise physiologist can guide you through this safely, using a mat and with assistance available, and tailor the approach to any physical limitations you have. When you know you can get back up, you move more freely. That confidence is worth every minute of practice. Caitlyn Huth is an exercise physiologist at Full Circle Wellness. Call 5456 1599 or visit fullcirclewellness.com.au
IT’S TIME TO RISE, SHINE AND EXERCISE builds a sense of esprit de corps and belonging. Early morning exercise before the day commences is seen as a bonus and one of the few times available to most busy people. A scenic view or natural surroundings is also seen as a benefit for early risers, with fresh air, although gym-goers love the quiet of an early morning and machine availability. A trusted motivational coach or instructor is an important aspect, as is a program that is beneficial to your requirements. Fun and enjoyment, along with variety and a social aspect associated with exercise, can also add to the attraction. Does it matter if you exercise early or late? No, of course not; it depends on circumstances and your own approach to your overall health and wellness. Life is movement; keep moving. Tom Law is the author of health and exercise-related books. Visit facebook.com/ tomslawtraining or call 0409 274 502.
A healthier outlook, taken one step at a time From counting steps to monitoring sleep, wearable technology is helping Australians take a more active role in their health and wellbeing.
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eeping an eye on your health has never been easier, with smartwatches and fitness trackers giving Australians a clearer picture of everything from daily movement to sleep patterns and heart health. And while younger generations are leading the charge, older Australians are increasingly embracing technology as a simple way to stay informed, active and healthy. The latest Bupa Pulse Check survey reveals 29 per cent of Australians aged 50 and over use apps or wearable devices to monitor their health and fitness, compared with 45 per cent of those aged 40 and under. The national survey of 2000 Australians found fitness and activity trackers, including Fitbit, Apple Health and Strava, were the most popular digital health tools, used by one in
12 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / November 2026
three respondents. Tracking physical activity, sleep and nutrition was also identified as the most valuable feature of health and wellbeing apps, ahead of rewards programs and personalised health advice. Bupa Clinical Innovation general manager Dr Janice Tan says the technology is helping people better understand
their health between medical appointments. “As a GP, I’m seeing more patients come in with health data from their smartwatches and fitness trackers,” Dr Tan says. “Recently, one patient was worried about their high resting heart rate, but after looking into it a little deeper, we discovered the issue was
actually dehydration, which can affect heart rate and other health conditions.” Information collected between medical appointments can provide a useful starting point for conversations with a GP, particularly when patients notice changes in their usual health patterns. Dr Tan says this awareness is particularly valuable because many chronic conditions develop gradually, often without obvious symptoms. “Wearables can help people build awareness of their health and encourage healthy habits long before they need medical treatment,” she says. However, she stresses the technology should complement, rather than replace, professional medical advice. “Wearables and AI are making it easier than ever for people to access health information. “They can support more
informed conversations with healthcare professionals but should never be used to self-diagnose or replace professional medical advice.” With more Australians embracing digital health tools, the message is simple: understanding your health today could help you make better choices for tomorrow.
HEALTH AT YOUR FINGERTIPS What users value most: • 66% – Tracking activity, sleep or nutrition • 51% – Rewards for healthy behaviour • 50% – Trusted health information • 49% – Mental health and stress tracking • 45% – Personalised health recommendations. Source: Bupa Pulse Check 2026. National survey of 2000 Australians.
Sunshine Coast
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TECHNOLOGY
Do you know how many subscriptions you have? EDIN READ explains how small monthly subscription fees can add up to a significant annual expense and why it’s worth regularly checking.
H AI, what can possibly go wrong? CHARLIE GRIFFITHS wonders why we’re surprised by the potential dangers of artificial intelligence when science fiction has been warning us for decades.
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t last! Someone has finally recognised the potential threat to mankind and beyond from potential rogue artificial intelligence models. This revelation burst onto our screens in recent weeks when OpenAI confessed to involuntarily hacking into Medicare and accessing data and statistics. The difference between this isolated event and the recent swathe of industrial incursions appears to be ‘intent’. While the Optus and Telstra hackings were carried out by conscientious cyber criminals with evil intentions, Medicare Gate was the one that got away. So, AI disruption is real. And we never saw it coming? I remember watching Lost in Space in 1965 when an evil female robot, rescued by the Robinsons, went on a rampage before being destroyed and rebuilt by the family’s ‘good’ robot without her evil programming. Humanity-hating robotoids were a constant threat and challenge to the Robinsons throughout their odyssey. In 1976 Logan’s Run (from the 1967 book of the same name) depicts a euphoric dystopia in which the population and the consumption of resources are maintained in equilibrium by killing everyone who reaches the age of 30. The demented mastermind is a misguided robotic computer called Box. Captain James T. Kirk encountered many electronic enemies during his five-year mission, televised from 1966 to 1969. When the M-5 multitronic unit, the ultimate combat computer, went rogue and ruthlessly destroyed Starfleet vessels, Kirk convinced the lunatic that it had committed murder, punishable by death, so it self-destructed. Dr Who has been hounded by Daleks since 1963. Emotionless killing machines, they were among the first hybrid cyborgs; the mutated remains of the Kaled people
14 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / November 2026
from the planet Skaro inhabiting almost impregnable self-propelled polycarbide shells. Stripped of all emotions except hate and unconditional survival, the battle is ongoing to this day. Jean-Luc Picard continued Kirk’s Star Trek adventures in the 1980s, famously encountering and infiltrating the Borg, the ultimate irresistible assimilators. Elaborate conflicts involving logic-emotion paradoxes ensued before a stalemate was reached and Picard returned to the Enterprise, maintaining a safe distance from the Borg cubes, but ready to defend humanity with human guile should they cross paths again. It is inevitable that science fiction will merge into reality at some stage, for the simple reason that if you can imagine it, you can do it. That’s how humans work. We have been living virtual artificial intelligence scenarios for decades; now virtuality has morphed into actuality. It won’t stop, because it can’t stop. Very clever people build very clever machines that can learn from the people who designed them, as well as their own experiences. Imagine, no, watch what happens when exponentially advanced input from humans and machines is programmed into each new generation of algorithms. Machines aren’t intrinsically malevolent, but humans can be. And we don’t have a good record when presented with powerful inventions like cars, planes, guns, bombs, and electricity. All of these are heavy and cumbersome, but an existential apocalyptic doomsday device may be no heavier than, or as simple to operate as a computer keyboard. What can possibly go wrong? Charlie Griffiths is a certified life coach and Neuro Linguistic Programming practitioner. Visit charliegriffithscoaching.com.
ow many subscriptions are you paying for? It sounds like a simple question. But between Netflix, Stan, Binge, Spotify, cloud storage, Microsoft 365, security software, news subscriptions, apps and now artificial intelligence services, it can be surprisingly difficult to answer. That is the nature of subscription creep. Very few of these services feel particularly expensive on their own. A charge of $9.99, $14.99 or $20 a month can be easy to overlook. Add enough of them together, however, and the total starts to look different. And Australians are signing up to plenty of them. Research published by ING in April 2026 estimated Australians spend $26.5 billion a year on discretionary subscriptions. Among Australians who subscribe to paid services, the average spend was $136 a month, or $1637 a year. Baby Boomers averaged $82 a month, which is $984 over a year. Streaming is a major part of the picture. Australian Communications and Media Authority research found 68 per cent of Australian adults used paid subscription streaming services such as Netflix, Stan and Binge in 2025. Online music streaming was also used by 72 per cent of adults. But the subscription model is no longer just about entertainment. We now subscribe to software, cloud storage, security products, fitness services, delivery memberships, news, dating services and increasingly, AI tools. Westpac transaction data published in May 2026 found its customers spend around $6.7 billion annually on subscriptions. The same data found more than 150,000 retail customers were paying for at least one AI subscription each month by March 2026, up from around 11,000 three years earlier. Those customers were spending an average of $37 a month on AI subscriptions. Many subscriptions are genuinely useful and good value. If you watch Netflix every night, use Microsoft 365 every day or rely on iCloud to safely store your photos, cancelling them simply to save money makes little sense. The problem starts when we lose track of what we are paying for. Perhaps you signed up for a free trial and forgot to cancel it. Maybe you subscribed to a streaming service to watch one particular series and never went back. You might be paying for extra cloud storage in two or three different places, or still paying for an app you have
not opened in months. Because these charges are usually automatic, there is no moment each month when we actively decide to buy the service again. The money simply leaves our account. That convenience is one of the great attractions of subscriptions. It is also what makes them so easy to forget. One simple trick is to stop looking at subscriptions as a monthly expense. Consider how $14.99 a month is about $180 a year, or how $24.99 a month adds up to $300. Six subscriptions averaging $15 a month cost $1080 over a year. That does not automatically make them bad value. It simply makes the real cost easier to see. Ask yourself: if this service asked me to pay the full annual amount today, would I still buy it? If the answer is yes, keep enjoying it. If you have to think hard about what the subscription actually does, it might be time for a closer look. A subscription check-up does not need to be complicated. Once or twice a year, take 15 minutes and work through a few places. Look through the last couple of months of your bank and credit card transactions for recurring charges. On an iPhone or iPad, check your Apple account subscriptions in settings. On Android, check subscriptions through Google Play. Check PayPal, if you use it, as some recurring payments may be authorised there. Look at the services you actually use. Check for duplication. You may be paying for storage or security through more than one provider without needing all of them. Cancel services you no longer use, and put a reminder in your calendar before any free trial ends. The important thing is knowing what you are paying for and deciding whether it is still worth it. You might be surprised by the answer. Edin Read is founder and chief technician at Greyology Tech Support for Seniors. Visit greyology.com.au Sunshine Coast
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Sunshine Coast
November 2026 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 17
IN THE COMMUNITY
SHINING A LIGHT ON COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS
ADVENTURE WITH PURPOSE: WALK THE LARAPINTA, CHANGE LIVES IMAGINE standing atop Mount Sonder as the sun rises over the ancient West MacDonnell Ranges. The vast red landscape stretches to the horizon and, for a moment, the world seems wonderfully simple. In July 2027, that experience could be yours, while helping change lives. The Queensland and Northern New South Wales Lions Medical Research Foundation (LMRF) has partnered with Inspired Adventures for the LMRF Larapinta Trek 2027, a five-day fundraising adventure along one of Australia’s most iconic walking trails. Participants will take on a 39-kilometre challenge through spectacular outback landscapes, with every step helping to fund vital medical research. For more than 60 years, LMRF has supported emerging researchers working to improve outcomes for conditions including cancer, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, asthma and kidney disease. You don’t need to be an elite athlete to take part. The trek is rated moderately challenging, with experienced guides supporting participants throughout the journey. Fundraising support is also provided to help participants reach their targets and maximise their impact. For those seeking a meaningful challenge, this is a chance to combine adventure with purpose and help support the next generation of medical discoveries. Visit inspiredadventures.com.au/ event/lmrf-larapinta-2027.
JOIN THE MAROOCHYDORE VIEW CLUB MAROOCHYDORE VIEW Club welcomes new members and visitors to its monthly lunches at Alex Surf Club in Alexandra Headland on the fourth Friday of each month. Members enjoy guest speakers, monthly outings and coffee mornings while raising funds for The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, which supports the education of disadvantaged children. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women and is part of a nationwide network of women supporting their communities. To book your place or for more information, call Claire on 0416 119 053. 18 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / November 2026
COAST residents are being urged to nominate community-minded people doing extraordinary things for major regional awards. The 2027 Sunshine Coast Australia Day Community Awards identify and acknowledge individuals and organisations making a difference across the region. The awards are across seven categories: Citizen of the Year; Young Citizen of the Year; Senior Citizen of the Year; Community Group or Organisation; Arts and Culture; Healthy and Active; and Environment. Sunshine Coast Council mayor Rosanna Natoli says the awards are granted to people who contribute to the community without seeking recognition. “Often they are quiet achievers, selflessly giving their time, energy and talents to help others,” she says. “These are the people who make our region a better place to live.” Dr Selina Tomasich, founder of global non-profit Hair Aid, was named the 2026 Sunshine Coast Citizen of the Year. “It was a huge honour to win and provided a wonderful opportunity to share the work our organisation does to help families out of poverty,” Dr Tomasich says. “If you know an everyday person driving extraordinary change, recognising their work not only benefits them personally but also the organisation they started or support.” Mayor Natoli encouraged residents to put forward someone whose contribution deserved recognition. Nominations close November 30 at 5pm. Award recipients will be announced at the Sunshine Coast Australia Day Community Awards ceremony on January 22, 2027. Visit sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au and search ‘community awards’.
BUDERIM CONTRACT BRIDGE CLUB BUDERIM Contract Bridge Club welcomes new and experienced players to enjoy a friendly game of bridge, with beginners’ lessons starting in February 2027. The club is planning a six-week beginners’ course, followed by a novice game on Wednesday mornings. Regular games are held on Mondays at 5.45pm and Wednesdays and Fridays at noon. Players should arrive 15-20 minutes early and allow approximately three-and-a-half hours for play. Monday evenings are particularly suited to players without a regular partner, with supper and refreshments provided. Table fees are $6 for members and $8 for visitors, including tea, coffee and biscuits. For membership inquiries or more information, call president Linda Boyle on 0491 130 722, email president@ buderimbridge.com.au or visit buderimbridgeclub.com.
GRANTS BRING HOPE AND SUPPORT TO LOCALS A RAILWAY modelling society, a Parkinson’s therapy program and a seniors’ meals service are among 14 community organisations to benefit from almost $69,000 in grants awarded by the Nambour Community Foundation. The foundation celebrated a decade of giving at its annual grants ceremony on October 21, distributing $68,828.41 to community groups in Nambour and surrounding areas. The Sunshine Coast Railway Modellers Society received $6000 to repair and upgrade its passenger train carriages, while Restoring Hope Parkinson’s Therapy was awarded $4500 for its Choir of Sound program. Blackall Range Care received $4207 for modern frost-free freezers for its meals program for seniors. Other grants supported food assistance, community meals, defibrillators, accommodation improvements, domestic violence services and programs for children and families. Nambour Community Foundation board chair Al Upton says the grants reflect the generosity and community spirit of Nambour. “We are incredibly grateful for the dedication of our community partners and the tireless work of all our grant recipients.” Established in 2016 by Sundale Limited, the foundation has distributed more than $540,000 in grants to more than 100 community groups. Its annual giving program was established with an initial $1 million contribution from Sundale and continues with support from Ken Mills Toyota, Nambour RSL, Nambour Rodeo and other donors. Grant applications open annually from June 1 to July 31. For more information, visit ncf.org.au.
OLDER WOMEN’S NETWORK THE Older Women’s Network Maroochydore Branch welcomes women looking to meet new people, enjoy guest speakers, participate in social activities and stay active in their community. Members meet on the third Monday of each month at 1.30pm at The Avenue Retirement Community, 32 Baden Powell Street, Maroochydore. For more information, call Lee on 0429 831 414.
BUDERIM MALE CHOIR THE Buderim Male Choir was invited again this year to perform at the annual Shed Music Festival at Coolum, which is presented by the Coolum Men’s Shed and is a Music for Health initiative. Men’s Shed and Women’s Shed music groups are invited to perform. They are mostly from the Sunshine Coast and hinterland but this year there were groups from Newcastle, Raymond Terrace, South Brisbane, Wynnum Manly, Alpha and even Alice Springs. The choir is now in rehearsal for their repertoire of Christmas carols, which they will be performing at Buderim’s Carols by Candlelight and at their annual visit to Buderim Private Hospital.
Appreciation certificate recipients included (from left) Ian and Carol Noble, Ken Evans, and Margaret and Richard Perry
PROBUS MARKS ITS GOLDEN MILESTONE MORE than 80 members of the Probus Club of Buderim and the Probus Club of Buderim Mountain came together to celebrate 50 years of Probus in Australia. The anniversary lunch was held at Maroochy Surf Club on October 1 and recognised the five decades of friendship, community connection and the values of Probus. Certificates of appreciation were presented to members in recognition of their outstanding support and contributions to their respective clubs. State Member for Buderim Brent Mickelberg also donated two hampers as lucky door prizes. The occasion provided an opportunity for members of both clubs to socialise and reflect on the friendships formed through Probus over the years. Sunshine Coast
MOVE IN READY
Your last chance to secure a brand-new retirement villa The fina al stage at Su uns sett Pa alm ms Rettirem ment Liiving is down to its ve ery last bra and-new w homes. Following strong demand and a previously sold-out community, this is your last opportunity to secure a new hassle-free home in this vibrant Palmview community on the Sunshine Coast. Choose from a two- or three-bedroom, single-storey villa, ready to move into this year. Enjoy resort-style facilities, weekly activities, home and garden maintenance, plus access to in-home support services if your needs change. It’s a welcoming community where you’ll feel more connected, more supported, and have more time for the things you love.
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MOTORING
A trusty ute for the long, yet scenic, road north BRUCE MCMAHON takes the Kia Tasman on a 4400km journey through Queensland, discovering plenty of reasons to hit the road.
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drove the Bruce Highway and survived (again). The road from Brisbane to Cairns has forever raised safety, comfort and convenience issues – too rough, too dangerous, too many fatalities, too many caravans and big trucks. Some of that’s true, and in sections this national highway falls short of ‘first-world’ standards, yet the road is not the killer as often suggested. Over 4400 kilometres to Cooktown and back to the Big Smoke through late August, the maligned road was never dangerous and, for the most part, quite comfortable in the trusted Tasman. In this, maybe the tenth run up and down over 50 years, the travel was easy at highway speed limits, sights and scenery ever-changing and a variety of hosts always welcoming. There were a few new gems, such as the Mt Uncle Distillery on the Atherton Tablelands, and some old favourites, including the Lion’s Den Hotel at the end of the Bloomfield Track.
There were surprises too. Port Douglas was delightful, now far more than only a resort destination. Then there is Yeppoon, booming at the end of a four-lane highway from Rockhampton; 1770/Agnes Water is worth the detour; Cairns’ northern beaches have top breakfast spots and the Atherton Tablelands deserves more touring time than ever. It’s not Highway 1, but the road south from Lakeland to Mareeba offered some of the best of Australian scenery. The trickiest thing of the Pacific Coast run these days is finding the cheapest of expensive fuels. (The Kia ute ran at 8.8 litres per 100km for a bill just over $1000. Accommodation and dining options can be limited in this Grey Nomad season too, maybe book ahead for special places.) Yet again, the Bruce Highway was never dangerous or scary or speed limited for comfort’s sake. The only hold-ups were a couple of road works – mostly road-widening projects. And here’s the thing, these days there
are many well-placed, if sometimes a bit short, overtaking lanes where there are otherwise few overtaking opportunities. Lumbering caravans can always be dealt with a little further down the track. Most daytime road users stuck to, or just above, posted limits and most made allowances for overtaking vehicles. Nothing silly, just a couple of slow ducks. Yes, here and there were wrecked cars in ditches, and yes, there are often crashes and fatalities on this highway. Just don’t blame the road. One Brisbane shock-jock was on again the other day about head-on fatalities on the “dangerous” Bruce. Now for a head-on crash, one vehicle
has to be in the wrong place at the wrong time –that’s on a driver, not the road. Even when it’s only two lanes. For all the outrage, often confected, about the Bruce Highway, it’d be worthwhile collating more detail about fatalities. What time of the day? How far had a driver driven? Was he or she from a right-hand drive country? Vehicle age and condition? What type of vehicle? Anyhow, aside from yo-yoing fuel prices perhaps, there’s no good reason not to jump in the car, run up the Bruce and revisit north Queensland’s charms. For sure it’d be great to have four lanes all the way, but the road, all in all, really isn’t too bad.
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20 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / November 2026
Sunshine Coast
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Wellness backed by science – a natural solution for joint pain and inflammation
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ne-in-seven Australians, or 4.1million people, are living with arthritis – a leading cause of chronic pain and the second-most common cause of disability and early retirement due to ill health, according to Arthritis Australia. Chronic inflammation can persist for months or even years, causing the body discomfort and debilitating pain. Arborvitae Joint Health helps to provide relief from the symptoms of mild-moderate arthritis, joint pain, inflammation in the joints and body, soreness and stiffness. Since it was founded in 2014, Arborvitae Health and Wellbeing has used Pycnogenol (a French pine bark extract) as the main ingredient in its range of natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant supplements. The natural plant extract (Pycnogenol) grows on the coast of south-west France (Landes
Jade Hurley is back on the road after finding relief from excruciating pain caused by arthritis.
de Gascogne) and is used alongside aloe vera, papain enzyme and honey in Arborvitae’s formulation. ‘‘Arborvitae does make a difference, and that has been supported by over 160 clinical trials and 450 scientific publications on its main ingredient Pycnogenol (a French pine bark extract) across a broad range of conditions and Arborvitae’s own clinical study. The customer feedback we receive is extensive and supports our claims,” Brendan Howell, director of Arborvitae Health and Wellbeing, says. A recent clinical study on Arborvitae Joint Health has shown some exceptional results with pain relief (66% decrease in pain test scores) a 50% increase in walking distance and a 56% decrease in inflammation in blood tests (CRP). This reduction in inflammation/ CRP alone is considered significant. Jade Hurley – also known as Australia’s ‘King of Country Rock’ – has been a regular user
of Arborvitae Joint Health which he states has enabled him to continue performing on stage. Hurley, who is now touring and back on stage where he belongs, says Arborvitae has “given me a new life and given me my career back from suffering with pain in my fingers as a result of years of arthritis”. Supplements are sold via Arborvitae’s website and at more than 2500 chemists and health food shops Australia-wide – including Chemist Warehouse, TerryWhite Chemmart, Blooms The Chemist and many others. To find out more on the clinical study and Arborvitae’s health supplements, you can visit the website: arborvitae.com.au or call 1300 879 863. The above information is general in nature. Please contact your GP or other healthcare professional for advice that is specific to your health needs.
Reverse mortgages feature
Unlocking wealth at home
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ustralia’s older homeowners are sitting on an estimated $3 trillion in property equity, yet only a small fraction of that wealth is being accessed to help fund retirement. New research is giving fresh insight into how Australians are accessing their housing wealth, including those looking to supplement their retirement income without selling their home. Deloitte’s 2026 Australian Reverse Mortgage Survey reveals more than 8000 households accessed a reverse mortgage product for the first time in the year to June 2025, with new lending totalling around $750 million. And contrary to popular belief that
reverse mortgages are primarily for people in their later years, 34 per cent of new private-sector borrowers were aged under 70. The report found Australians aged 60 and over collectively hold about $3 trillion in home equity, with an estimated $600 billion potentially accessible through reverse mortgages. Interestingly, only about one per cent of that accessible equity is currently being used. Deloitte Australia partner James Hickey says many Australians remain unaware of how home equity can support their retirement goals. “Current low uptake indicates many
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don’t know about the product or understand how it may help them meet their financial goals,” he says. Reverse mortgages allow eligible homeowners to borrow against the value of their property while continuing to live in it, generally without making regular loan repayments. According to Deloitte, funds are commonly used for home improvements, managing existing debt, travel, vehicle purchases and supplementing retirement income. However, the financial implications deserve careful consideration and should be discussed with a financial expert. Unlike a conventional home loan, interest is generally added to the outstanding balance, meaning the amount owed grows over time. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission’s Moneysmart website says this can significantly reduce the equity remaining in a property, potentially affecting future aged-care arrangements or inheritance plans. There are safeguards. Reverse mortgages taken out since September 18, 2012, have negative equity protection, meaning borrowers cannot owe more than their home’s value. The federal government also offers its Home Equity Access Scheme, which provides another option for eligible
older Australians. For retirees considering their options, understanding the long-term costs and obtaining independent financial advice are vital.
WHAT EXACTLY IS A REVERSE MORTGAGE? According to information from ASIC’s Moneysmart website, a reverse mortgage allows eligible older homeowners to access some of the equity in their property without having to sell or move out. Unlike a traditional home loan, regular repayments are generally not required while you continue living in the property. Instead, interest and fees are added to the outstanding balance, meaning the debt grows over time. The loan is generally repaid when the property is sold, the homeowner permanently moves out or the estate is settled. Voluntary repayments may be possible and some loans allow borrowers to protect a portion of their home equity. The total cost depends on how much is borrowed, the interest rate, fees and how long the loan remains in place.
What is a reverse mortgage A Reverse Mortgage is a home loan available to homeowners above 55. It does not require any repayment until the last borrower leaves the home permanently. Reverse Mortgages are flexible and can be used in several ways. These include consolidating debts such as paying off a mortgage, credit cards, renovations, helping family, new motor vehicles, holidays, strata levies, aged care costs, supplementing income, covering living expenses or putting funds aside for a rainy day. Borrowing capacity is determined by your age. At 55 years old a borrower can borrow up to 15% of the value of their property. This increases by 1%
every year so at 90 they can borrow up to 50% of their property value. The loan is repaid at sale of the property, entering aged care or death. The lender cannot ask for any repayments for the life of the loan. However, if you do wish to make Repayments you are free to do so. With a Reverse mortgage you still own your home and can live in the property for as long as you choose. Reverse Mortgages are the most heavily regulated financial loan product in Australia, and they come with a no negative equity guarantee so you can never owe more than the value of the property. All lenders must adhere to ASICʼs best interest duty.
Founded in 1998, Reverse Mortgages QLD is a family business that leverages over 20 years of expertise in supporting senior Australians with smart money solutions. Our deep knowledge of the older Australian market helps you secure the money you need to live in your own home as long as you want. Our clients have access to niche solutions, lenders and opportunities that other non-specialist brokers might miss and canʼt access. Our family will ensure the best solution for you and your family so that you can enjoy your retirement, not endure it.
1300 AGED LOAN (1300 243 356) The loans can allow their users to meet goals and objectives otherwise financially impossible
Visit our website for more information: QueenslandReverseMortgage.com.au OR Call us on 1300 AGED LOAN 1300 243 356) to find out how we can assist you. Sunshine Coast
SENIOR LOANS/REVERSE MORTGAGES FEATURE
A CHANCE TO OPEN UP YOUR OPTIONS GOING directly to a lender limits you to that institution’s offerings and rates. There is no obligation on the lender’s part to tell you whether a better option exists elsewhere. The research and comparison process is left entirely to you, with no one checking your outcome against the wider market of competitors. There is one advantage of dealing with a lender directly: the lack of options provides an easy choice. However, you are trusting that the one product in front of you is the right one, without the means to easily compare it against the competitors’ offerings. The same applies to a generic broker
who has limited knowledge and access to potential lenders. A specialist reverse mortgage broker works exclusively in reverse mortgages, and the difference in access to lenders is significant. On average, a specialist holds at least six reverse mortgage lenders on their panel, compared to the single institution you access by going direct. This translates into more competitive comparisons and a loan better suited to your circumstances, rather than simply the product one lender happens to offer. Specialist reverse mortgage brokers seek to provide a solution that is the best fit for you based on the lender’s requirements. Some of these requirements are the age of borrowers and the location of your home. Different lenders also provide different payment options: such as a lump sum payment, a line of credit or as periodic instalments. Specialists also know, in detail, which lenders offer access to which rates. This means they can match you to the right product from the outset, rather than working through a process of trial and error. WORDS: Matt Fisher, head of marketing, Queensland Reverse Mortgage. Visit QueenslandReverseMortgage. com.au or call 1300 AGED LOAN.
THE HOME YOU LOVE: TURNING HOME EQUITY INTO RETIREMENT PLANS AFTER a lifetime of hard work, your home can represent so much more than bricks and mortar. It’s where memories have been made, milestones have been celebrated and life’s special moments have unfolded. For many Australians over 55, it is also one of their greatest financial assets. As retirement brings new opportunities, many homeowners are looking for ways to enjoy the next chapter of life while making the most of what they have already built. A home equity release loan allows eligible homeowners to access a portion of the value built up in their property, without needing to sell or move. This can help turn some of the wealth held in your home into funds that can support the lifestyle and priorities that matter most to you. A home equity release loan could allow you to access the value in your home to: • renovate to create a more comfortable residence • travel to places you have always dreamed of visiting • fund in-home or aged care • refinance to reduce ongoing financial pressure • help family when they need it
• have extra funds available for life’s unexpected moments. Your home has supported you throughout life. Now, it may be able to support the plans and experiences you’ve been looking forward to. To obtain a free property estimate and to see how much equity you could access, try Inviva’s home equity release calculator or call 1300 222 223 to find out more.
*The information provided here is general in nature and does not take into account your personal circumstances, objectives or financial situation. Before acting on any information and for legal, tax, or financial questions, you should consult with an appropriate professional. Loans are subject to eligibility and lending criteria. Fees, interest rates and terms and conditions apply. Loans are serviced and distributed by Inviva Services Pty Ltd. Australian Credit Licence 533319.
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Sunshine Coast
November 2026 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 23
INSIGHT
Why over-50s resorts are booming across southeast Queensland By DON MACPHERSON
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here are a number of different retirement living options, and one that is increasingly common is the over-50s style of living. You will no doubt have seen these parks popping up all across southeast Queensland as they are offering an attractive alternative to the traditional retirement village option. The term ‘over-50s resort’ is really a marketing term and doesn’t have any legal definition or meaning. Technically, they are called manufactured home parks under the Queensland Manufactured Homes Act, which deals with ownership of (theoretically) relocatable homes within a manufactured home park. The crucial difference with manufactured homes is that, unlike a retirement village unit, you actually own the home in which you live. Retirement village units are held under leases, or licences. With manufactured homes, you do not own the land and pay a site rental to place your home on the land owned by the operator. Commonly, the site rental payment could be higher than the service fees payable for a comparable level retirement village unit. There are a series of differences between a manufactured home and a
retirement village arrangement. Some of the major differences are: RETIREMENT VILLAGE • You don’t pay stamp duty. • You don’t own the Home • You pay service fees. • Usually, no capital gain. • Usually, no capital loss. • Significant exit fees. • Focus on community. MANUFACTURED HOME • You don’t pay stamp duty. • You own the home. • You pay site rental.
• You get any capital gain. • You bear any loss on sale. • No exit fees. • Limited community engagement. Historically, manufactured homes were often cheaper than retirement village units, but as the quality of the offering has increased, so have the prices. Anecdotally, the financial model of manufactured home parks is an attractive one, though individual financial advice tailored to your circumstances should be obtained. The weak point of manufactured
home parks in the past has been their limited community facilities and engagement compared to retirement villages, but the industry, seeing this shortcoming, has in recent years significantly increased the level of these facilities. In 2019, the state government brought in changes to the legislation in relation to manufactured homes, introducing greater transparency for purchasers, but also very detailed forms to be disclosed. These were further amended and updated in 2026. Often there is a separate building contract and/or home purchase agreement to be considered. The documentation that must be reviewed, digested and signed can often run more than 100 pages. Accordingly, the government strongly recommends prospective purchasers get experienced independent legal advice prior to entering into this complex contract documentation. Sunshine Coast Elder Law are experts in dealing with the complex documentation required to be entered into when purchasing a manufactured home. Contact them on 1800 328 952 or visit sunshinecoastelderlaw.com.au.
CARAVANS WANTED Wanted to buy, all caravans and motorhomes. • We come to you • Fast settlement • Finance Paid out If you want a quick no hassle sale please contact Joe for a price 0418 876 395 24 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / November 2026
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Anyone who needs a basic Will written and kindly includes a gift to Cancer Council Queensland is eligible to use the Free Will Service.
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Sunshine Coast
INSIGHT
How to decorate a console table
YOUR home’s entryway introduces your style, taste and personality. A console table is not only functional but also an opportunity to create a fabulous focal point that welcomes guests into your home. Consider your interior theme: Whether your home embraces relaxed coastal styling, classic Hamptons elegance or contemporary minimalism, carry this theme through to your entryway. Regardless of its size, your entrance can become a welcoming and beautifully styled space. Decorate your console table with personal treasures, lamps for additional lighting and ambience and decorative boxes or baskets for practical storage. Combine tall and short accessories, such as a statement vase, a stack of books and a small sculpture, to create depth and visual interest. Personal trinkets collected during your travels add character and individuality. Create balance with thoughtful styling: Taller accessories on one side can be balanced with shorter pieces on the other. Symmetrical arrangements create a harmonious, classic appearance, while asymmetrical styling offers a more relaxed and dynamic feel.
Make the wall behind your console a feature: A decorative mirror reflects light and enhances the feeling of space, while artwork introduces personality and colour. Beautiful wallpaper is another way to tie your interior theme together, adding texture, pattern and visual interest while drawing the eye upwards. When styling a console table against patterned wallpaper, choose streamlined accessories to prevent the display from appearing cluttered. Alternatively, subtle wallpaper designs provide a beautiful backdrop that allows decorative objects to stand out. Finish with fresh flowers: Flowers and greenery bring life, softness and natural beauty to your entryway. Change your arrangements with the seasons to keep your console table looking fresh and inviting throughout the year. With carefully selected accessories, beautiful wallpaper and thoughtful layering, your console table can create a stylish first impression that reflects the personality of your home. WORDS: Debbi Vollmer. owner/designer, Ivory T fabric & wallpaper. Visit 5-7/20 King Street, Caboolture. Go to wallpaperaustralia.com.au or call 0422 599 084.
‘BIG FAKES’: WATCHDOG WARNS OF AI SCAM THREAT AUSTRALIANS are being hit with increasingly sophisticated, artificial intelligence-fuelled scams as the online watchdog warns against repeating past mistakes by failing to rein in the technology. The rise of AI presented major risks in the finance sector, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission’s executive director of enforcement and compliance, Chris Savundra, said. Risks included problems around advertising, complaint handling and credit scoring, as well as cyber threats to financial systems, he told a federal parliamentary inquiry
I N D U S T R Y
into AI. Mr Savundra said it was also putting consumers at a higher risk of being scammed. “We do see ... an increased use of AI, the use of big fakes, and more sophisticated ways in which scammers can take advantage of Australian consumers,” he said. Another risk was that Australians were increasingly relying on AI for financial advice. He called for the federal government’s new unfair trading practices scheme, which targets issues such as subscription traps, to be extended to the financial services sector. - AAP.
E X P E R T
We don’t talk anymore They say blood is thicker than water, but when money and inheritance enter the picture, family ties can quickly unravel. That was the unfortunate outcome in the recent Queensland Supreme Court decision of Patterson v Weatherald [2026] QSC 243. A brother and sister were appointed joint executors and equal beneficiaries of their late father’s estate. However, rather than working together, their relationship deteriorated to the point where Court intervention became necessary. The brother had been living rent-free in an estate property, collecting rent from another property without properly accounting for it and
delaying the administration of the estate. His sister had had enough. She successfully applied to have them both removed as executors, with the Court appointing an independent administrator. To make matters worse for the brother, he was ordered to personally pay his sister’s legal costs. The lesson? Appointing your children as joint executors might seem fair, but it can prove disastrous if they cannot co-operate.
TRENT WAKERLEY DIRECTOR, WAKERLEY LEGAL. LEVEL 3, OCEAN CENTRAL, 2 OCEAN STREET, MAROOCHYDORE, 5443 9600, WAKERLEYLEGAL.COM.AU
Practical Common Sense Legal Advice for you and your loved ones Premier Legal Advisors for: • Estate Management • Wills • Estate Disputes
• Retirement Village Contracts • Aged Care Contracts • Elder Law
VIDEO CONFERENCING AVAILABLE Call now 1800 328 952 | www.sunshinecoastelderlaw.com.au | 2 Innovation Parkway, BIRTINYA. Sunshine Coast
November 2026 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 25
In-home care feature
Supporting independence at home
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or many older Australians, home is much more than four walls. It is where memories have been made, neighbours have become friends and everyday routines feel right. And as we age, needing a little extra help does not necessarily mean having to leave those familiar surroundings behind. From assistance with household chores and meal preparation to personal care and mobility support, a range of services is designed to help seniors remain safe, comfortable and independent at home. Australian Government figures show 292,911 people were receiving a Home Care Package at June 30, 2025, highlighting the
26 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / November 2026
substantial role in-home support already plays in aged care. The system has since undergone change, with the federal government’s Support at Home program replacing Home Care Packages and the Short-term Restorative Care Program in November 2025. The program provides services based on assessed individual needs, including nursing, physiotherapy, transport, social support, cleaning and gardening. It also recognises that maintaining independence can involve practical changes to the home itself. Assistive technology and modifications, such as mobility equipment and bathroom safety improvements,
may be funded to help people manage everyday activities and make their homes safer. For those needing help to regain function and mobility, the program also offers short-term restorative care aimed at improving independence. Importantly, older Australians do not necessarily need complex care arrangements to receive assistance. The Commonwealth Home Support Program continues to provide entry-level services for eligible seniors who need occasional help with everyday tasks. Another change took effect on October 1, 2026, with approved personal care services, including assistance with showering, dressing and personal hygiene, now fully funded under Support at Home, provided participants have these services in their support plan and sufficient available funding. Other services, such as cleaning and gardening, may require a financial contribution. Accessing government-funded support begins with an assessment, which considers a person’s needs and the services that could help them continue living independently.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE: THE MOMENTS THAT MATTER MOST IN AGED CARE WHEN people think about aged care, they often think about the big things: health support, personal care, medication management and safety. These services are essential, but ask any older person what brightens their day and you’ll often hear about something else that nourishes their spirit. It’s the care worker who remembers how a resident takes their tea. The friendly face that arrives at the front door each morning. The conversation about grandchildren, favourite football teams, or a treasured memory from years gone by. These moments may seem insignificant, but they can make all the difference. For many older Australians living at home, loneliness can be one of the greatest challenges. A daily visit is about far more than completing a task. It is reassurance, connection and the comfort of seeing someone who genuinely cares. A few minutes spent sharing a laugh or listening to a story can turn an ordinary day
into a meaningful one. Personal care, too, is about more than practical support. When provided with kindness and respect, it preserves dignity and independence, helping people feel confident and valued in their own homes. At All About Living, the team understands how small interactions create lasting impact. Whether it’s companionship during a walk, assistance with daily routines, or simply taking the time to listen, these moments build trust and enrich lives. If you or a loved one could benefit from compassionate support at home, talk to the All About Living team about their personalised care and companionship services Visit allaboutliving.com.au
Sunshine Coast
IN-HOME CARE FEATURE
RANGECARE: 40 YEARS OF CARE BRINGS A LIFETIME OF IMPACT THIS year, RangeCare is celebrating 40 years of helping older Australians live independently, stay connected and continue doing the things they love. Since 1986, RangeCare has supported thousands of people across the Sunshine Coast and Gympie regions to remain safe, confident and independent in their own homes. While services and community needs have evolved, one thing has remained unchanged: a commitment to putting people first. At the heart of every RangeCare story is a meaningful connection. Whether it’s a care partner assisting with daily tasks, a social program fostering new friendships, or a volunteer offering companionship, these interactions create lasting impact. One client captured this sentiment perfectly: “Before RangeCare, there were days when I wouldn’t speak to anyone. Now I have friends, outings to look forward to and a reason to get out of bed each morning.” Stories like these remind us that care is about more than services. It is about connection, belonging and helping people continue living life with purpose. A milestone like 40 years is built on the trust of clients and their families. Their feedback and recommendations
Sunshine Coast
BUILDING SAFER FUTURES AT HOME
have shaped RangeCare into the organisation it is today. RangeCare’s impact extends beyond clients to the families who support them. As one family carer reflected, “RangeCare gave me the support I needed to keep being a daughter, not just a carer.” Through respite, practical assistance and compassionate support, RangeCare helps families navigate life’s challenges while ensuring loved ones can continue living well. Behind every service is a dedicated team of staff and volunteers committed to making a positive difference. After 40 years, the purpose of RangeCare remains unchanged: helping people live with dignity, independence and connection. And that is a difference worth celebrating. To learn more about RangeCare’s services and social programs, visit rangecare.com.au or call 07 5445 7044.
Maroochy Home Assist (MHA) remains dedicated to supporting older residents and people with disabilities, helping them live safely and independently amid the ever-changing landscape of government funding. “We want to reassure the community that MHA is still here,” says general manager Julie Stacey. “We are providing the same trusted services we always have, along with new options to meet changing needs.” With a move to a new, purpose-built facility, MHA delivers comprehensive home maintenance and modifications more efficiently than ever. Everyday tasks like clearing gutters or changing light bulbs can become hazardous with
age. Through state and federal government-subsidised programs, MHA helps clients navigate shifting funding frameworks to reduce these risks and stay in their own homes. Services are tailored to individual needs and include: • Home modifications: bathroom renovations, ramps, bidets, stairlifts. • Safety and repairs: grab rails, key safes, lock repairs and insect screens. • Essential trades: subsidised plumbing, electrical work, minor maintenance. MHA’s priority continues to be safety, reliability and peace of mind for clients and their families. Find out more about MHA. Call 5476 6130 (between 8.30am-2pm) or visit maroochyhomeassist.org.au.
November 2026 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 27
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Why respect for older people matters more than ever That’s a wrap on another Queensland Seniors Month. October is one of the busiest times and best times of the year for ADA Australia’s aged care advocates as we get to meet and talk with seniors in the community about their joys, hopes and concerns. Thank you to everyone who stopped by to talk with us at an expo, morning tea or community event. As we move beyond Seniors Month, we hope all of us continue to consider how we value ageing in our communities, and respect those who came before us. As the number of Australians aged over 85 will triple by 2066, respect is more than good manners, it is the foundation of an inclusive functional society. Australia is ageing, but not in the way many people imagine. Today’s older Australians are working longer, volunteering in record numbers, caring for grandchildren, supporting family members, leading community organisations and
Understanding Higher Everyday Living Fees (HELF) in aged care
HELF is an optional fee for extra services in residential aged care that go beyond the standard care and services that every resident would expect. HELF cannot be charged for accommodation, and residents cannot be charged for a service they do not want, use or agree
to. HELF allows providers to offer optional extras, but it is important to understand your rights, what providers can and can’t charge for and the choices available to you. If you are concerned about your HELF fees, talk to an advocate on 1800 700 600.
contributing decades of knowledge and experience to society. Yet despite these contributions, many continue to face assumptions that ageing means decline, dependence or irrelevance. These stereotypes can appear in everyday conversations, media portrayals, workplaces and services. It can mean overlooking an older worker for training opportunities or assuming an older person cannot learn new technology. It can appear in advertisements that portray ageing only as a problem to be solved rather than a stage of life to be celebrated. Growing older is not something that happens to “other people”. It is a journey shared by all of us. An inclusive community recognises that people do not lose their worth as they age. Every stage of life brings new perspectives and opportunities to contribute.
ADA Australia advocacy and community legal services Our aged care advocacy and community legal services are dedicated to supporting older Queenslanders to accessing and getting the most from quality aged care services and supports – whether at home, or in an aged care facility, and to maintaining your rights to make decisions and have agency over your life. On a practical level, an advocate is someone who works alongside you to give you a voice and help you navigate and resolve a range of issues impacting your rights in aged care. Whether it’s not knowing where to start, not getting the right support, not receiving the quality of care you would expect, difficulties dealing with your service provider or decision makers, or more worryingly, being subject to abuse and neglect – having an advocate by your side can give you the guidance, confidence and support to speak up. Importantly, advocacy is free, and an
advocate works for you. They are on your side and are directed by you. They won’t do or say anything without your permission, and their focus is solely on a positive outcome for you. No issue is too big or too small when it comes to your life or the lives of your older loved ones. Call ADA Australia today on the Aged Care Advocacy Line 1800 700 600. At ADA Australia we can assist with: • Accessing or getting the most from your aged care services • Understanding aged care provider services or fees • Having a say in your care and the things that impact you • Recognising your rights and expressing your wishes when your ability to make decisions is questioned or you are unhappy with the decisions being made on your behalf. To find out more visit www.adaaustralia.com.au
Copies of ADA Australia’s free Queensland Seniors Calendar 2027 are still available. The calendar is a reference guide to support and services available to older Queenslanders, and information to help you understand your rights. This year’s edition features illustrated front covers of The Queenslander, Queensland’s newspaper from 1866 to 1939 providing a mini time capsule of life in our state. Contact ADA Australia to find out where to pick up your copy or supply by emailing info@adaaustralia.com.au
Your aged care support service Your side, your say Do you get or do you need government aged care services, either in your own home Žƌ ŝŶ ƌĞƐŝĚĞŶƟĂů ĐĂƌĞ͍ We support you to access or get the most from your aged care services, understand service charges and fees and have a say in the things that impact you. Our service is free, and our focus is on a ƉŽƐŝƟǀĞ ŽƵƚĐŽŵĞ ĨŽƌ LJŽƵ͘
Chat with us 1800 700 600
Sunshine Coast
November 2026 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 29
BRAIN MATTERS
Is the test really worth it? KAILAS ROBERTS says while a new blood test for Alzheimer’s has opened up a whole new world, we should still be focusing on our modifiable risks.
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or those of you who follow the (medical) news, you may have heard of a new blood test for Alzheimer’s disease. This is an exciting development, though it also raises a number of clinical and ethical dilemmas. The test is known as ptau217. You may remember that Alzheimer’s disease is thought to be the product of two misfolded proteins accumulating in the brain – tau and amyloid. Confusingly, ptau217 correlates most closely with amyloid levels in the brain. Knowing how much amyloid you have can help determine if Alzheimer’s is likely. If there is no amyloid, you don’t have Alzheimer’s. What is less certain, however, is whether the presence of amyloid means you do have the condition. We all likely develop some amyloid plaques as we get older, and this is not always associated with the clinical symptoms of Alzheimer’s –memory loss, difficulties with orientation, problemsolving deficits, etc. In a now-famous study on nuns, it was clear that some had high levels of amyloid but had never had symptoms. Therefore, the presence of amyloid alone was not sufficient for a diagnosis of clinical Alzheimer’s disease.
It is considered that there are other variables at play, such as one’s level of mental activity throughout their life: the higher this has been, the more of a ‘buffer’ there is for an individual to function well despite the amyloid accumulation. Other processes such as neuroinflammation may also influence the effect of amyloid. In the past 10 years or so, there has been a debate about whether to classify Alzheimer’s disease in the traditional way, i.e. wait for symptoms to develop, or to diagnose it based on so-called biomarkers – such as ptau217, or an amyloid brain scan – potentially before symptoms are present. In the latter scenario, this would be referred to as ‘pre-clinical’ Alzheimer’s. Proponents of the biomarker approach argue that the earlier we recognise the physical changes in the brain, the better. We do know that they can occur up to 20 years before the first clinical symptoms and signs appear. Treating people in these early stages may result in a greater benefit. There is some merit in this argument – we certainly know that once you have symptoms, the milder they are, the more
effective the medications we have on hand are likely to be. Getting in even earlier may therefore be worthwhile. Others argue that if there is a chance that someone might have positive biomarkers but never develop the clinical symptoms of Alzheimer’s, including dementia, then it can cause undue anxiety (imagine thinking you are likely to develop a condition for 20-plus years and it never happens). Equally concerning, if you then have some form of medication aimed at preventing something that was never going to occur in the first place, this medication could cause harm. It should be noted that at the current time, we do not have treatment that has been proven to prevent Alzheimer’s. However, trials are ongoing with
monoclonal antibodies exploring this possibility. With the advent of ptau217, which costs about $400, this dilemma is more in focus. I have been referred a number of people who have done the test even though they have no symptoms. Some have come back ‘positive’, but we don’t know what this means for their future. All we can really say is that they should be focussing on all the modifiable risks for dementia – exercise, vascular health, blood sugar, hearing loss and the like. Improving accessibility to healthy ageing opportunities boosts participation. 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.
A window of light into the world of healing for those challenged with cancer At CanSurvive, we are dedicated to ensuring people challenged by cancer have a greater choice in determining their care and treatment Our focus is on gaining valuable research and a greater understanding of holistic, non-invasive cancer treatments and therapies. In doing so, we provide access to: •
Evidence-based research on traditional and complimentary care
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07 5315 8371 Mon., Wed., Thurs. 10am-4pm T1/303, 55 Plaza Parade, Maroochydore. www.cansurvive.org.au 30 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / November 2026
Sunshine Coast
HEALTH
WHY HUMANS HAVE ALWAYS STRUGGLED WITH HEARING
SLEEP APNOEA IN WOMEN: THE CONNECTION WITH MENOPAUSE When you think of sleep apnoea, you might picture someone snoring loudly, stopping breathing during the night and feeling exhausted the next day. But sleep apnoea doesn’t always look that way, particularly for women. The risk of sleep apnoea increases during and after menopause, as hormonal changes can affect the upper airway and breathing during sleep. And with menopause already bringing its fair share of sleep disruptions, it can be tricky to tell what’s causing what. The tricky part? The signs aren’t always obvious. For women, the signs can be much less obvious. Instead of noticeable snoring or breathing pauses, symptoms
might include insomnia, frequent waking, persistent fatigue, morning headaches, mood changes or brain fog. These symptoms make it easy to put it down to stress, hormonal changes, or simply getting older. But while menopause can certainly affect your sleep, it isn’t always the whole story. If you’re regularly waking up feeling exhausted, struggling to concentrate or dragging yourself through the day despite getting what seems like enough sleep, it’s worth speaking with your doctor about your concerns. These symptoms don’t necessarily mean you have sleep apnoea, but it’s important not to dismiss them as just another part of menopause. After all, better sleep starts with understanding exactly what’s getting in the way. Visit your local CPAP Direct store for a free chat with the team, or take the online sleep assessment at cpap.com.au
HEARING loss is often thought of as a modern problem, but humans have likely struggled with hearing difficulties since the earliest days of our species. Long before factories, power tools and headphones existed, people were exposed to injury, illness, infections, ageing and the natural wear and tear that affects every part of the body. The human hearing system is a remarkable piece of biological engineering. Sound travels through the ear canal, vibrates the eardrum, passes through three tiny bones in the middle ear and finally reaches the cochlea, a small spiral-shaped organ deep inside the inner ear. Here, around 15,000 delicate sensory cells convert sound vibrations into electrical signals that the brain interprets as speech, music and environmental sounds. The challenge is that these microscopic sensory cells are fragile. They can be damaged by ageing, excessive noise, disease, some medications, head trauma and poor circulation. Unlike many other cells in the body, the sensory hair cells of the inner ear do not regenerate once they are destroyed. This is why hearing loss is so
common and why prevention is so important. While modern hearing technology can do a remarkable job of compensating for lost hearing, it cannot restore the original sensory cells that have been lost. From our earliest ancestors to today’s digital age, hearing loss has been part of the human experience. The technology has changed dramatically, but protecting the hearing we have remains as important as ever. Rebekah Ostby is an audiometrist at Hear4Good, a local and independent hearing clinic at Golden Beach and Caloundra. Call 54770144 or visit hear4good.com.au
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November 2026 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 31
RETIREMENT LIVING
Over-50s benefit from healthy ageing program
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healthy ageing program is being expanded across Australia, following a successful pilot. A total of 95 Sunshine Coast residents aged between 57 and 85 years took part in the 12-week trial, offered free through a partnership between over-50s developer GemLife and Amplar Health. The pilot highlighted a well-recognised challenge in preventive health: most people know what they should do, but not always how to make those changes stick. By focusing on practical, achievable actions and providing personalised guidance, participants were able to turn knowledge into healthier habits. A total of 94 per cent of participants reported positive progress towards their health goals. The initiative is part of a $6 million investment by GemLife into holistic wellness initiatives across its over-50s communities, aimed at helping Australia’s ageing population live well. Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) figures show more than a third (36.9 per cent) of the population will be aged 50 and over by 2032. Participants in the healthy ageing program receive personalised one-on-one coaching to improve areas including physical activity, nutrition, sleep, mental wellbeing, social connection and preventative healthcare. Interest in the pilot was so strong, it reached capacity within 48 hours of expressions of interest opening to residents of GemLife Pacific Paradise, Palmwoods and Maroochy Quays. It will now be offered to all new residents of GemLife’s communities nationwide, including 12 across the Coast and broader southeast Queensland, opening access to nearly 1000 residents. For 64-year-old Maria Gill, who lives in GemLife Pacific Paradise, her two young grandchildren were her motivation for taking part. “I’ve always gone to the gym, but now I am taking care of my two and four-year-old grandkids, I’m thinking of how I can improve my strength and energy levels so I can keep up with them as they grow,” she says. “When I talk to people my age in the weight-training room, a lot are doing it because they are looking after their grandchildren, too. “They really are the best motivation. “I’ve been doing 10-kilogram weights, so I can easily lift my two-year-old granddaughter now and I feel like I’ve improved my general fitness, so I can chase them around at the park. “I drive to Brisbane every week and stay overnight to look after them. “The drive alone was making me tired, but after
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SPRING OPEN DAY PROVIDES GLIMPSE INTO ‘UNMATCHED LIFESTYLE’
Maria Gill with her grandchildren completing the program I can do it with ease.” Mrs Gill says the tailored approach and one-on-one coaching kept her on track. “Even though I’m quite motivated, it was nice to have someone keep me accountable and provide different perspectives. “I reduced my wine intake as well, which was another goal,” she says. “Living in an active community like Pacific Paradise has certainly helped. Most people are very health conscious, and we all run, walk, cycle and make the most of the sporting and wellness facilities here.” GemLife general manager wellness Joshua Kristenson says the team had been surprised by the speed with which the pilot participants experienced positive change. Meanwhile, managing director and group CEO Adrian Puljich says the response to the program has been “tremendous”, showing that improving accessibility to healthy ageing opportunities boosts participation. Visit gemlife.com.au
SPRING sunshine, great food, live entertainment and a whole lot of excitement. Living Gems Moreton Bay was the place to be on Saturday, October 10, as hundreds of visitors joined in the Spring Open Day. With coffee flowing from Mowbray Coffee, delicious bites served up by Good 2 Eat and an acoustic duo setting the scene, there was plenty to enjoy. Between catching up with friends, exploring the display villas and soaking up the atmosphere, visitors got a taste of the lifestyle that makes Living Gems Moreton Bay such a special place to call home. There was also a special surprise for the rugby league fans as footy legends Chad Townsend and Denan Kemp streamed the SEN Saturday League Kick-Off broadcast live from villa two. Set in the heart of Burpengary East, mere minutes from the highway, Living Gems Moreton Bay offers beautifully designed villas and will boast access to a private Country Club, featuring a heated swimming pool and spa, gymnasium, tennis court, lawn bowls, private cinema, a bar and lounge, library, craft studio and more. Living Gems says it’s a lifestyle you can’t match anywhere else. For many visitors, the open day offered more than just a tour of the display villas. It provided a genuine glimpse into the vibrant lifestyle residents can enjoy every day. Stage two villas are selling fast. If you’re considering your next chapter, now is the perfect time to discover everything Living Gems Moreton Bay has to offer. Visit livinggems.com.au/locations/moreton-bay or call 1800 953 002.
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32 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / November 2026
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WHAT’S ON
WOMEN IN UNIFORM
THE JAZZY SOUNDS OF A DRY MARTINI AWARD-WINNING Brisbane saxophonist Andrew Butt will bring his distinctive jazz sound to Nambour for the next instalment of The Jazz Sessions. Performing alongside pianist Kellee Green and bassist Helen Russell, Butt will present music from his album Peregian, along with a selection of jazz standards. A 2024 Queensland Music Award winner, the album draws inspiration from everyday experiences, friendships, travel and love, with its title track inspired by a visit to Peregian Beach. The trio’s performance will bring together three Queensland musicians for an evening of live jazz in an intimate venue. WHERE: The Presynct, 15 Ann Street, Nambour. WHEN: Thursday, November 19. Doors open at 6pm, with music from 6.30pm. TICKETS: $25-$50. Bookings recommended, visit oztix.com.au.
PETER ROWSTHORN DINNER AND SHOW AUSTRALIAN comedian Peter Rowsthorn will bring his stand-up comedy to the Caloundra Power Boat Club for an evening of entertainment. Best known for playing Brett Craig, the long-suffering husband of Kim in the television comedy Kath & Kim, Rowsthorn has enjoyed a lengthy career. Beyond his television work, Rowsthorn is an experienced stand-up performer who has appeared on comedy stages across the country. WHERE: Caloundra Power Boat Club, 2 Lamerough Parade, Golden Beach. WHEN: Friday, November 13. Doors open at 6pm, dinner from 6.45pm. TICKETS: $75 per person for dinner and show. Cheese platters available for $24. Visit caloundrapowerboat.com.au.
COOLUM Theatre Players will present this new musical comedy created by Sunshine Coast writers Liza Burgess and Linda Gefken. Directed by Gefken, the production brings together the worlds of musical theatre and military life, with a storyline centred on a group of women serving in a United Nations peacekeeping force. The local production will open with a red-carpet event on November 20. WHERE: Coolum Civic Centre, 2-4 Park Street, Coolum Beach. WHEN: November 20, 21 and 27 at 7.30pm; November 22, 28 and 29 at 2pm. TICKETS: $35-40, visit coolumtheatre. com.au or trybooking.com.
CHRISTMAS COMEDY MUSICAL comedy Christmas in the Grandparents Club stars Logie winner Lynne McGranger, alongside Wayne Scott Kermond, Andrew James and Leigh Archer. Combining familiar Christmas situations with retro music and comedy, the grandparents navigate complicated gift requests and dietary requirements to keeping the peace. WHERE: The Events Centre, Minchinton Street, Caloundra. WHEN: Saturday, November 28, at 3pm and 7pm. TICKETS: $72.50 adults; $67.50 pensioners. Visit theeventscentre.com.au.
JAZZ AFTER SUNSET TWO accomplished Australian musicians will share the stage at Eudlo Hall for an evening of contemporary jazz, world music and improvisation. Jazz After Sunset will feature the Stefano Rocco Quartet alongside violinist and multi-instrumentalist Shenzo Gregorio and his band. Italian-born, Sydney-based guitarist and composer Stefano Rocco draws on jazz, Latin music and post-bop influences, combining melodic compositions with dynamic rhythms. Gregorio brings a different musical approach, drawing on classical, flamenco, jazz and world music. His performance will include violin classics, original compositions and improvisation. WHERE: Eudlo Hall, 19 Rosebed Street, Eudlo. WHEN: Saturday, November 14, 6.30pm. TICKETS: $30-35, visit thejazzsessions.com. au or stickytickets.com.au.
Post War immigration multimedia show coming to Bokarina
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lot of people in Queensland, immigrated to Australia after World War 2 and its crippling effect on the European economy, infrastructure devastation and fear of repeated violence. Leaving behind their relatives and history going back many decades, these migrants made the tough decision to board ships to Australia; a country they knew nothing about. Many that took this life changing plunge, came through the Bonegilla migrant camp, near Albury / Wodonga. Using interviews Simon Reich has recorded, this performance gives voice to the hardships but life affirming stories these immigrants share. The show uses the venue’s large screens, with interviews, photos, and home movies. This is then embellished with a live music soundtrack played by piano and a violin. Simon shares, “ What we are finding is that families are coming with children and grandchildren to try and understand their
Sunshine Coast
elders’ lives, as many have never shared their anecdotes. It’s also healing families, as the early part of the show lets migrants tell of their war experiences and how that motivated them to shift to Australia, which garners added respect from relatives for the very hard decision to relocate to the other side of the world.” You’ll cry. You’ll laugh. But most of all, you’ll be truly inspired by these gutsy pioneers, who made a new life for themselves in a country they knew nothing about. It will be performed at the Venue 114, Sportsmans Parade, Bokarina on Sunday 29th November at 3.00pm.
November 2026 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 33
prisoners. Even exercise was done in isolation. Rule infringements were punished with solitary Melbo confinement, early on in ‘blind’ urne cells with no lighting. In the A stay w notorious maximum security H ith a differen Division, I step into a corridor ce lined with doors to the rockbreaking yards. There, prisoners spent the day hammering bluestone blocks first into fist-sized rocks and then into gravel. The gravel was used to pave Sydney Road, but long after its completion, this form of hard labour punishment continued well into the 1970s. No wonder this place was known as Hell Division. Taylor explains ‘the reception biff’ for new prisoners. After being strip-searched the men had to walk past a row of officers who beat them with batons, otherwise The gatehouse of Pentridge Prison known as ‘black Panadol’. An ex-prison officer, who joined a previous tour, admitted: “We did have a welcoming committee, yes.” The weight of the horrors of H Division lifts off my shoulders when I step outside into the bright sunlight. People gather at After a visit to Melbourne’s Pentridge Prison, JOANNE KARCZ decides that Brew Dog for a pint and students chat on benches in the piazza. she will accept the challenge to sleep in a suite converted from cells with a I make my way to the corner of dark history. Pentridge Boulevard and Champ Street to explore another side of Pentridge. one side and the barred windows of B Block ith a free afternoon in The modern Adina Apartment Hotel, on the other. Melbourne, I make a bold one of two hotels on the former prison site, Today, Pentridge presents a mixture of choice: to go to prison. Pentridge towers over the prison wall and guard heritage and modern architecture. The Prison, to be precise. It’s been redeveloped tower. While the Adina rooms and shopping centre with a supermarket, bank, and I’m keen to see what all the fuss is apartments have sweeping views across florist, hairdresser, pharmacy, cinema and about. Only 20 minutes from Tullamarine the former prison site or south towards the more stands on the site C Division, where Airport, and a short eight-kilometre tram city, I’ve come to see the Interlude. With the draughty cells had no natural light or or train ride from the CBD, Pentridge is no only 19 suites, creatively fashioned from toilet, only a night bucket. longer a place people want to leave. Rather, adjoining cells of Pentridge Prison’s B Children crawl over a wooden climbing it encourages them to stay. Division, it’s a novel experience. frame in the playground. People sit on Crenellations, reminiscent of medieval The Interlude is one of only 40 prisonbenches in the sun. The atmosphere is light, castles, top the six-metre-high bluestone to-hotel conversions worldwide. unlike that experienced by prisoners when wall along Champ Street. Two imposing Unoccupied for years, the site was in a state the jail was active from 1851 to 1997. chamfered towers with cross-shaped of serious disrepair and respectfully I’ve signed up to a National Trust of arrow slits flank the austere entrance to the restoring and converting the heritage Victoria tour to learn more about the site’s heritage-listed former prison. building with its dark history into a hotel history. Our guide, Taylor, explains why the “We passed the portals of an immense presented an enormous challenge. original walls were raised to six metres. It gate…” reads a sentence etched into warm The suites, created by linking four or was discovered that local boys would climb wooden slats lining the arched tunnel five prison cells, don’t shy away from their over the three-metre walls to retrieve lost entrance. There’s no gate now, and I step punishing history. The original heavy cricket balls. into a flat grassed area bounded by the wooden cell doors that open into the suites She says that silence was imposed on Warder’s Cottage, now a visitor’s centre, on
Judgment day: would you spend a night in a prison cell willingly?
W
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are set into thick whitewashed walls lining a long central atrium. The atmosphere is bright and airy. I’m eager to see how prison cells can be turned into a place where people choose to stay. With planning and attention to detail, it turns out. Heavy dark curtains hang beside original barred windows set high in the bluestone walls. Soft furnishings create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. At one end of each suite, the shape of a converted train carriage, a queen bed fits snugly against an original cell wall. Further on, another cell is now a black marble-lined bathroom. In the two larger suites there’s a freestanding bath. Despite, or perhaps because of, their original purpose, people who first stay in the modern Adina often return for a night or two in the Interlude to experience sleeping in a former prison cell, to swim in the 15 metre underground pool and enjoy the other hotel facilities. Before leaving, I ask to see the panopticon, one of three found on the Pentridge Prison site. Wheel-shaped with narrow wedge-shaped yards radiating from a central lookout, this was where prisoners exercised. Brass footprints show the mindless route they followed for only one hour each day. Converted into an event space, only the panopticon foundations remain. Discovering Pentridge has been an afternoon well spent. I’m keen to return for a night at the Interlude. Then, I’ll enjoy its comforts without forgetting Pentridge Prison’s dark history.
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WHEN GOOD COMPANY MEETS ISLAND CHARM HAVE you ever been somewhere and thought, ‘I could quite happily stay here’? That’s the sort of thought that might cross your mind on Norfolk Island. Perhaps it happens as you drive along a quiet country road, with towering Norfolk pines reaching towards the sky and the ocean sparkling in the distance. Or maybe it’s when a local stops for a chat and, before you know it, you’re hearing a story about island life. There is definitely something about this little island that makes you want to slow down and stay awhile. Over eight days, there’s time to get to know Norfolk Island properly, and it doesn’t take long to discover that there’s much more to it than pretty views. Take Bounty Lodge, for example. Built in the 1920s as a warm and welcoming home, it’s the sort of place where you can imagine settling in for a leisurely afternoon. With high tea on the table and a cuppa in hand and something delicious to enjoy, there’s no need to be in a hurry. After all, isn’t that what a holiday should be about? Then comes an evening that’s a little different from your usual night out. A progressive dinner takes you from one local home to another, with a different course served at each stop. It’s a lovely way
to discover that the real charm of Norfolk Island often lies in its people. Of course, the island has plenty of stories to tell about its past, too. Around 900 years ago, Polynesian people arrived on the island, long before the British established their first settlement in 1788. Later came two convict settlements, with stories of hardship, survival and resilience. A wander through historic Kingston and a visit to the Bounty Museum help piece together the island’s extraordinary history. For a change of pace, a glass-bottom boat tour across the tranquil lagoon reveals coral gardens and colourful tropical fish beneath the water. And then, as the day draws to a close, there are the sunsets. By the end of eight days, you’ll have collected a few stories of your own, made some lovely memories and perhaps discovered why so many people return to Norfolk Island. For more information, visit cttravel.com.au or call 5391 1648.
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BOOKS
12 MONTHS TO RETIRE RIGHT THE DEATH SCULPTOR By Chris Carter, crime thriller Reviewed by John Kleinschmidt
WILD DARK SHORE By Charlotte McConaghy, modern fiction Reviewed by Jan Kent WHEN the battered body of a woman washes up on Shearwater Island, the mystery and questions begin – who is she and where did she come from? As details are revealed while Rowan recovers, the reader becomes enmeshed in the lives of these cleverly-drawn characters. Dominic and his three children have been entrusted, on this remote island off Antarctica, to preserve a bank of seeds that can ensure threatened flora species are an insurance against climate change for future generations. With ever-intensifying storms battering the island and rising sea levels, time is running out to find the answers Rowan is seeking regarding the whereabouts of her husband, who was a researcher on the base prior to his disappearance. The mystery develops, with chapters written from different characters’ perspectives, which at times I found a little off-putting, as a switch was made from first to third-person narrative. Lies abound, deepening the intrigue, with bodies buried on the island, so the reader can hardly fathom if anything is as it seems – surely the elements of a good psychological thriller such as this book. With an undercurrent of the bonds of family and what we would do to preserve those we love, this gripping book is top-level, overriding a few plot anomalies and a slightly disappointing ending. Definitely worth reading – hard to put down, with some lovely descriptive prose.
THE Death Sculptor is a brutal and intense thriller featuring the highly skilled Detective Robert Hunter, his partner Ramos Garcia and an especially gifted researcher, Alice Beaumont. A killer murders three victims in succession, his signature being to leave a sculpture made from body parts from his victims at each murder scene. Hunter and his team are convinced that the grotesque sculptures are designed to provide a clue to the killer’s identity and convey a message to the investigators about the motive for the murders. Interpreting the meaning of three different sculptures from seemingly unconnected victims tests the skills of Hunter and his team to their limits. A surprise ending to the story does not disappoint.
By Glen James and Vince Scully, non-fiction finance PLANNING for retirement involves much more than deciding when to finish work. From understanding superannuation and investments to considering lifestyle, purpose and financial security, there are plenty of decisions to make along the way. In 12 Months to Retire Right, financial experts and podcast hosts Glen James and Vince Scully take readers through 12 key areas of retirement planning, offering practical advice to help them prepare for life beyond work. Drawing on real-life experiences and financial research, the authors challenge common misconceptions, including how much money Australians need to retire and when they can afford to stop working. They also explore the importance of finding purpose beyond a career and making the transition from saving for the future to enjoying the money accumulated over a lifetime. Written specifically for Australians, the book covers everything from superannuation, property and shares to understanding the age pension and determining how much income is needed to support a comfortable retirement. Rather than presenting a one-size-fits-all approach, the authors encourage readers to consider their individual circumstances, priorities and aspirations, recognising that a fulfilling retirement looks different for everyone. With straightforward explanations, checklists and achievable goals, the book encourages readers to approach retirement planning at their own pace, building a clearer picture of the lifestyle they want and how to fund it. Whether retirement is just around the corner or still a decade away, 12 Months to Retire Right offers a practical starting point for making informed decisions and approaching the next chapter with confidence.
THE PIRATE QUEEN By Ariel Lawhon, historical fiction Reviewed by Karen Weiber, of Books@Stones, Stones Corner
THE EXTRAORDINARY FLORENCE STOKER By Karen Brooks, historical fiction Reviewed by Lea Dodd, of Annie’s Books on Peregian THE Extraordinary Florence Stoker is a richly researched portrait of a remarkable woman who has too often lived in the shadow of her famous husband. Following Florence from her early life in Dublin, through her relationships with Oscar Wilde and Bram Stoker, to her years in the glittering literary and theatrical world of Victorian London, Brooks brings an extraordinary era vividly to life. Florence is intelligent, witty, fiercely loyal and, above all, resilient. Her complicated marriage to Bram, his consuming devotion to
Henry Irving and the challenges she faces as a woman in a male-dominated society create a compelling and deeply human story. Most fascinating is Florence’s determined fight to protect Bram’s legacy and the copyright of Dracula – a battle that ultimately helped shape the rights of authors. Immersive and beautifully written, this is historical fiction at its finest and a wonderful reminder that behind many famous men are extraordinary women whose stories deserve to be told.
GRACE O’Malley was born to be a sea captain. But despite her natural skill on the water, Grace learns early that her dreams of a life at the helm are not compatible with the expectations of her noble family. As the only daughter of a powerful chieftain, her role is to secure a strong alliance and bear children. But when she’s sent to foster with a nearby clan, Grace falls for a clever and open-minded second son – a man she cannot have. Ariel Lawhon’s research is second to none as she writes about another forgotten
heroine. What I love most about her writing is her ability to take a person from history and bring them to life on the page. Grace is struggling for approval, a woman navigating impossible choices, a mother fighting for her children and a leader willing to risk everything. Moving through different stages of Grace’s life allows the reader to understand how every triumph, heartbreak and sacrifice shaped the woman history would later remember as the Pirate Queen of Ireland.
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W A T T V O C I F E R O U S R R P B R L M U W H E R E A S A Q U E O U S P C L T I G N P E U R O P E A N I S S U E L T A N C H E W P R E D I C A T E D N I I R E L A R T I F I C E R S M A I D M E E V O N P A R D E C L I N E D R O R E T T L M O I L L A M P I C E F L O E U A R T V M E T E D G E S T R A I G H T E N
S A T S U M A W S C R R D H K A U I B O P I N I O N S H G A R T P A T A S K S I N G E N U E E D L T N E B U L A C O R P S E H P P N A D E L E I M A G I N E A C X M C D P O O G T E R M I T E L E L U R E E Y S S H R I N K S R
1. In what country was pop singer Allison Durbin born? 2. What is French for red? 3. What Australian did Geoffrey Rush play in the film The King’s Speech? 4. Which US sitcom often featured a reference to Superman? 5. In what country are the Peloponnese? 6. Who was the first female Victorian premier? 7. What was the official newspaper of the former Soviet Union? 8. How many Arabian Nights are there in the Middle Eastern folk tales? 9. Who played Susan Mayer in the American TV series Desperate Housewives? r? 10. What is the term describing a strong religious believer? ur? 11. What is the common term for a deep purple-red colour? ed 12. In the year 2000, ABC’s Play School added what shaped window to its set? 13. Who wrote The Great Gatsby? a, the 14. What is the name of the corner where South Australia, Northern Territory and Queensland meet? 15. From which UK city did the band Oasis originate? 16. What is a nautical idiom for between a rock and a hard place? 17. Who was the ‘Sheik from Scrubby Creek’? 18. What does DC stand for in Washington in the US? 19. What was the first dam built in the Snowy Mountains Scheme? 20. In which country was Isis a goddess?
SUDOKU (MEDIUM)
SUDOKU (EASY)
9 4 2 8 7 1 3 5 6 3 6 7 5 9 4 8 2 1 8 1 5 6 3 2 4 9 7 6 2 9 1 8 3 7 4 5 1 5 4 2 6 7 9 8 3 7 3 8 9 4 5 1 6 2 4 9 1 7 5 6 2 3 8 5 7 3 4 2 8 6 1 9 2 8 6 3 1 9 5 7 4
4 7 9 5 3 1 2 8 6 8 6 5 4 2 7 9 1 3 3 2 1 6 8 9 4 7 5 5 9 6 2 7 8 1 3 4 2 3 8 1 4 5 6 9 7 1 4 7 9 6 3 8 5 2 6 5 3 8 1 2 7 4 9 9 1 2 7 5 4 3 6 8 7 8 4 3 9 6 5 2 1
CODEWORD
W X O P A S C F Q M K N L
14
15
16
17
V D Y T 3
4
18 5
19
20
21
22
23
24
E Z H U R B J 6
7
8
9
10
11
25 12
26
I
G
13
acne, cairn, cane, chain, chin, china, chine, churn, crane, earn, enrich, hernia, HURRICANE, inch, incur, inure, nacre, near, nice, nicer, niche, rain, ranch, rancher, rani, RAUNCHIER, rein, reran, rerun, ruin, rune, runic, urchin, urine
WORD STEP
2
WORDFIND
1
9-LETTER WORD
All the men and women merely players TWIRL, TWILL, SWILL, SKILL, SKULL, SKULK There may be other correct answers
1. NZ. 2. Rouge. 3. Lionel Logue. 4. Seinfeld. 5. Greece. 6. Joan Kirner. 7. Pravda. 8. 1001. 9. Teri Hatcher. 10. Pious. 11. Magenta. 12. Diamond. 13. F Scott Fitzgerald. 14. Poeppel Corner. 15. Manchester. 16. Between the devil and deep blue sea. 17. Chad Morgan. 18. District of Columbia. 19. Guthega. 20. Ancient Egypt. The choice of luxury and the luxury of choice.
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November 2026 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 37
PUZZLES
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD 0004
CODEWORD
6 Leaves out bins (5) 7 #ARD GAME HELD BY PUBLICAN n A STALEMATE 11 2EDDENED WITH HESITATION SAY FOR A BIT 12 3PECIlES IF TAKEN AWAY FROM MULTIPLE FAMILIES 14 3UCCESSFUL STARTUP A SEED THAT CAN BURST AFTER COLLEGE 15 5NKNOWN CHARACTER INTERRUPTS SPIEL ABOUT DISPLAY UNITS 17 2ELAY SET OFF AHEAD OF SCHEDULE 19 @!H MORE OVERHEARD IN love affair (5) 20 Hems skirts (5)
1
1
1
18 0ICTURE ESSENTIAL TO PAPARAZZI MAG IN EXPOSÏ 21 It broke into faulty meter of HOUSE n NUISANCEç 22 .(3 RISK BAFmED PSYCHOLOGISTS Down 1 "RUSH ASIDE ROUGHLY CUT BREAD FOR *APANESE LUNCH 2 4IGGER GATHERS 2OO S lRST PRODUCE 3 Four banks in the middle of THE CITY 4 $OTED ON 3CARLET AFTER COMMOTION 5 4AFFETA AND LACE TOPS SET IN white trim (7)
WORDFIND
1
/
/
/
1
1
/
1
1
1
1
/
No. 111
The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.
AUDITION
EPILOGUE
BACKDROP
MONOLOGUE
BACKSTAGE
MUSICAL
CHORUS
PANTOMIME
COSTUME
SOLILOQUY
ENSEMBLE
THESPIAN
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Across 1 Mandarin’s a must: translated in South Australia (7) 8 5NlNISHED PIE lLLING Onion if you ask me (7) 9 .EWBIE lXED ENGINE PROTECTING SECOND turbine (7) 10 #HARGES WITH TUSKS MAKING CARIBOU BACK away initially (5) 11 $IRECTION NEEDED AFTER CORPORATION REMAINS 13 -ARVEL CHARACTER UNABLE TO BE RECAST 16 !DELAIDE CANCELLED BACKING FOR "RITISH SINGER
/
/
1
No. 301
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Single/Twin Share Available BALANCE PAYMENT MUST BE RECEIVED BY 26/11/27
For more information or enquiries please contact our office. PH: (07) 4129 7132 greganddonna@ganddrossbuscharters.com.au ganddrossbuscharters.com.au 38 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / November 2026
Sunshine Coast
PUZZLES
QUICK CROSSWORD
No. 3739
9-LETTER WORD
R
E
23 Decreased (8) 26 Light source (3,4) 27 Glacial mass (3,4) 28 Unbend (10) 29 Outside limit (4)
Every row, column and 3x3 outlined square must contain the numbers 1 to 9 once each.
Level: Easy
No. 1001
4 7 1 6 7 2 6 8 5 7 8 1 4 2 3 4 9 7 1 7 9 6 2 1 2 4 7 6 3 2 1
R U
WORD STEP
Level: Medium
No. 1002
No. 111
Complete the list by changing one letter at a time to create a new word at each step. One possible answer shown below.
8 Dangled (9) 9 Sport (4) 14 Making loud and confused noise (9) 16 An order from above (9) 17 Journeyed (9) 19 Italian car manufacturer (7) 22 Related to the ice caps (5) 23 Profundity (5) 24 Article (4) 25 Dispense (4)
Down 1 Envelop (4) 2 Ferocious (9) 4 Relating to childbirth (9) 5 Australian naturalist (5) 6 Melancholy (poem) (7) 7 Forebodings (5)
34 words: Excellent
No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.
Across 1 Unit of power (4) 3 Loud and forceful (10) 10 Watery (7) 11 In contrast (7) 12 From Europe (8) 13 Debatable point (5) 14 Masticate (4) 15 Stated an argument (10) 18 Skilled craftsmen or inventors (10) 20 Servant (4) 21 Of equal value (2,3)
C A
SUDOKU
26 words: Very good
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once.
17 words: Good
N
I
Today’s Aim:
H
No. 111
TWIRL
_____ _____ _____ _____
9
1
2 8 2 4 9 7 9 1 4 2 6 7 3 5 1 4 9 1 7 8 7 2 2 3
SKULK Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters Pty LTD. pagemasters.com
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November 2026
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