Your Time Magazine Sunshine Coast December 2022

Sbeing able to turn a sow’s ear into a silk purse, as the saying goes. I am not one of them.

I have met those who can pick up a piece of driftwood, an old horse shoe, a scrap of rope or shard of broken glass and turn it into a work of art. They can knit and sew and crochet and make the ordinary extraordinary.

Alas, what I see in my mind’s eye and on occasion have tried to produce, could never be confused. The artistic arrangement I visualise invariably falls spectacularly flat.

I learnt very early on that handcrafts were not my strength and despite various attempts at pottery, macrame, knitting and other “handy”

skills over the years have never come up with anything worth keeping.

After completing a pottery course as a teenager, I presented Mum with a little jug I had made. She said she could see what I had learnt at the course – that it was best I forgot about pottery.

My excuse is being left-handed. While my sister still capably produces beautiful covered coat hangers and can knit, my poor mother gave up on teaching me crochet after five minutes. And my knitting never went much beyond uneven coloured squares.

Even those fancy wools that hide mistakes didn’t help. My daughter can testify to the scarf I made her in a burst of enthusiasm a few years ago. It was 30cm wide at one end, 20cm at the other and various widths in between. I have no idea how I managed that, but it did give us a good laugh.

Lorraine Page this month talks to those who have the ability to create beautiful items that are worthy gifts and memories worth keeping.

Me? I’ll head to the Christmas stalls of our many talented local craft groups and find a hand-made gift there. Happy Christmas dear readers.

Dorothy Whittington Editor

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there. ders

Make

matter – turn

hand to creating memories

Igniting creative passions has its own reward. LORRAINE PAGE delves into the satisfaction of putting our hands to work and crafting something meaningful for generations to come.

have an ecological focus on repurposing, using up scrap fabrics or creating items to substitute disposable products.

Relaxing hobbies soothe the mind and give us a sense of accomplishment; however, the particular benefits of arts and crafts can go much further than fun and relaxation.

Research into the physical and mental health benefits of craft remains largely qualitative and based on self-reporting, but it’s reasonable to think that occupying ourselves productively means less time to dwell on ourselves.

When you make something, make it matter. It’s a slick slogan to follow, but that’s exactly what my friend Jullie did when she couldn’t bear to throw out a broken umbrella because she was still fond of its pretty pattern.

A dedicated crafter and keen upcycler, she belongs to a local sewing group where projects are birthed, ideas shared, and lasting friendships forged.

Using her creativity, sewing skills and the internet, she found a way to give her old umbrella a new use in life.

“It was as simple as googling, ‘how do I recycle a broken umbrella?’,” she says. “I landed on the website Cucicucicoo and found a pattern for a fold-up tote bag. I was even able to use the umbrella’s original fasteners to secure it.

“A lady remarked to me one day when I was out shopping, ‘I once had an umbrella like that!’.”

Most Cucicucicoo projects and patterns

Arts and crafts, including but not restricted to, knitting, crocheting, weaving, sewing, beading, quilting, needlework, textile arts and woodworking, can be a form of diversional therapy that help take our minds off negative thoughts, putting to flight the old saying that idle hands are the devil’s workshop.

MARTY Nuku creates mixed media story baskets and is affiliated with the Spinners, Weavers, Fibre Artisans of Ipswich, and Arts Connect Ipswich. She runs mobile workshops in the Brisbane, Ipswich and Gold Coast areas and supplies the basic tools of scissors, super glue, pliers, needles and rope.

Participants bring objects that can be woven, glued or stapled into their basket, such as a piece of clothing from someone who has died, trinkets or personal gifts, fabric from a wedding gown or veil, paper objects, driftwood or seashells.

“I have also made aromatic baskets and woven in sage and rosemary to evoke a memory for anyone housebound or in hospital,” Marty says. “It brings the outside in and evokes memories of smell. It’s a

Brisbane, Robyn Frank, says the quilts started for children being treated for cancer to accompany them when they came into hospital for treatment. The program progressed to throws made for children up to 18 years of age who are in and out of hospital regularly for treatment.

When Daniel was just seven years-old, he was in the fight of his young life, his mother, Fran, never far from his side.

Diagnosed with a high-grade cancer, he spent more than a year as an inpatient at Brisbane’s Royal Children’s Hospital.

In the first month of his hospitalisation, he received a throw quilt from Project Linus, decorated around the edges with colourful dinosaurs, the stuff of dreams for Basket maker Marty Nuku

tactile basket that appeals to all the senses.

“The basket starts off structurally as a belly button and when we think of the womb as being a vessel to carry a baby, a basket is an extension of the whole idea of carrying something precious.”

Basket making takes Marty into her quiet zone.

“It’s a real calming influence,” she says. “I always use my hands to alleviate stress or to cope with the challenges of the world.”

She makes to order seasonal baskets and all her baskets are functional and aesthetically pleasing as a stand-alone art piece.

PROJECT Linus started in America in 1995 making blankets for children in need, taking its name from Linus, the blankethugging character in the comic series Peanuts.

Spokesperson for Project Linus

Daniel and his dinosaur quilt

Julie Tasker’s portrait art quilt of her cat.

a little boy. The gift sweetened Daniel’s long stay in hospital.

From the outset, Fran says, her son loved the quilt but couldn’t quite get his tongue around the “nigh-nee-naws” (dinosaurs) that roamed over it.

As he grew older, Daniel couldn’t remember much of the intensive treatment he received as a child, but the quilt would often be found wrapped around him when he was watching television.

“When he did go home the quilt was around the home all the time and would always go with him when he returned to hospital for further treatment,” Fran says. “It was a security thing for Dan.”

Daniel made a full recovery and today is an athletic, 29-year-old man who has followed his parents’ footsteps into the nursing profession. He’s also the proud keeper of his quilt.

Project Linus also makes quilts for Be Uplifted Inc, a breast cancer charity that supports women through their breast cancer journey to the end, or into remission. Volunteers are mostly lifelong sewers who quilt purely for relaxation and the joy of giving.

Between the two charities, 1200

throws were made last year, half going to children deemed at risk by the Queensland Government and taken into foster care.

RESOURCES available to crafty minds in brick-and-mortar shops or online are seemingly endless, allowing crafters to personalise their artistic expressions, discover and experiment with new techniques or revive and tweak traditional ones, all the while creating unique repositories of treasured memories.

Julie Tasker learnt to sew on a plastic toy sewing machine that could only punch holes in paper. As her mother sewed on a domestic sewing machine, Julie sat at a mini-table beside her ‘stitching’ away contentedly.

She made her own clothes at an early age and caught her mother’s addiction to patchwork and quilting.

She has never stopped creating and uses the techniques of traditional quilting with various embellishment styles applied to create stunning art quilts that are highly personalised and meaningful.

One of her preferred techniques is thread sketching to enhance details of an art quilt by drawing an outline, shape, design or picture with a sewing machine over a sketch marked out with an erasable marking pen.

“A significant photograph or painting that has meaning for the maker can be the inspiration for an art quilt design,” Julie says.

“Anyone can be an art quilter by putting at least two layers of fabric together, choosing a pictorial, landscape or abstract design of your own, or using somebody else’s pattern.”

Born and raised in Zimbabwe, she is drawn to depicting nature and animals.

She is an active member of Queensland Quilters Art Quilters, a special interest group of Qld Quilters Inc dedicated to promoting art quilts through experience and inspiration.

WHEN Adele Hartley was nine, she could whip stitch by hand (overcast) the ends of seams to stop them unravelling.

Her mother was a dressmaker and Adele’s job was an essential skill in the days before the zigzag stitch was added to domestic sewing machines.

She has fond memories as a child growing up in a remote area of Natal in South Africa, sitting around the fireplace listening to the radio with her parents and brother, everyone knitting. She married a game ranger and as a family they lived in the game reserves in Natal until they emigrated to Australia in the 1980s.

A lifelong crafter, in recent years her passion for authenticity has steered her towards doll making. Through a labourintensive process, Adele transforms a blank manufactured kit into a reborn, lifelike human infant that she has seen pull a memory trigger in a buyer.

“I have one client in Toowoomba who says their doll looks like their nephew who has just been born, dimples and all,” Adele says. “Some people have three, four or five dolls that they change through the day and put to bed in pyjamas at night. Just to sit

and hold one is something each person needs to experience for themselves – the comfort of holding that doll that’s just like a baby.”

Some of Adele’s dolls take pride of place in aged care homes in the Lockyer Valley, calming residents with dementia and controlling blood pressure in others.

Wherever you are in your craft journey – a beginner or an aspiring expert – there are craft groups and organisations around the country to get you started on making something that really matters.

GETTING STARTED

Australian Sewing Guild – aussew.org.au Social sewing groups; online sewing workshops; library of sewing resources

The Embroiderers’ Guild, Queensland Inc – www.embroiderersguildqld.org.au

Extensive library; classes in modern and traditional embroidery

Queensland Quilters Inc – qldquilters.com Networking; workshops for a range of craft abilities; special interest groups; library Arts Connect Inc – artsconnectinc.com.au

Supporting, showcasing and connecting artists on the Sunshine Coast Officeworks – officeworks.com.au

Derwent Inktense pencils, water-soluble ink-based pencils, permanent once dry, ideal on fabric

Everything Fabric, Hervey Bay –everythingfabric.com.au

Australian owned online patchwork and sewing supplies

Patchwork Angel, Forest Glen –patchworkangel.com.au

Shop in person and online for all patchwork, sewing and stitchery needs; huge range of fabrics; patterns; advice and classes

Make it Sew, Boondall – makeitsew.online Shop in person and online; weekly classes; themed and quirky fabrics; sewing patterns; craft and embroidery materials

Project Linus volunteers prepare quilt kits.

Adele Hartley and her reborn dolls

Have your say. Send letters to Editor, Your Time Magazine, PO Box 6362, Maroochydore BC 4558 or email editor@yourtimemagazine.com.au

As an adopted from birth child (born 1963), I read with interest last month’s Your Time article concerning relinquishing mothers. Some interesting issues were raised.

How does Trish Large want the law regarding veto changed? Surely not by having it removed or made redundant as this would be denying individuals the right to privacy.

Some language in the article was highly judgemental – “snatched”, “massive long term problems”, “bullied”, “layers of pain” – where is the data substantiating such language?

Speaking of data, the claim that “most reunions fail” does rather hinge upon definitions of failure (and brings into question the efficacy of any infra-structure designed to assist people with such reunions).

I am by no means asserting that deceptive practice, lies, and behaviour based on questionable social considerations were not

endemic, it can however be asserted that “protection” may have been a reason behind much behaviour.

The facts regarding my own story involve researching and eventually being able to contact my relinquishing mother in the early 1990s, maintaining a close relationship with her by telephone and thoroughly enjoying the laughter and stories we share.

We have met twice and appreciate the contact we have.

The Sunshine Coast is about to launch an Adoptees Connect Inc group. The inaugural meeting is on December 18 in Maroochydore.

I hope that this group will help to provide support for the many people affected by adoption.

A follow-up to the “Stolen Babies” article may involve reviewing the motivations and hopes of this new group.

Mark Brennan (name on my original birth certificate).

THIS MONTH IN HISTORY

December 13, 1642 – Dutch navigator

Abel Tasman of the Dutch East India Company discovers New Zealand.

December 21, 1846 – Anaesthesia used for the first time in Britain when Robert Liston amputated the leg of a servant in an operation at University College Hospital, London.

December 17, 1903 – Orville and Wilbur Wright achieve the first powered, controlled flights, the longest lasting about a minute.

December 15, 1905 – Women win the right to vote in Queensland elections.

December 19, 1930 – Perth is linked by telephone to the rest of Australia.

December 29, 1940 – German aircraft drop thousands of bombs on London, causing the worst fire since 1666.

December 31, 1964 – Donald Campbell sets a new land s peed rec ord of 442 km/h at Dumbleyung_Lake, WA.

December 3, 1967 – The first successful heart transplant performed by Dr Christiaan Barnard at Cape Town.

December 2, 1972 – Gough_Whitlam becomes prime minister, leading the first Labor government in 23 years.

December 9, 1992 - Buckingham Palace announces the separation of Prince Charles and Diana Princess of Wales.

I HAVE adjusted my times for being in the garden to very early morning and late afternoon to avoid sunburn. The wet year has seen a few plants, including succulents and geraniums rot or have rust. Pop some new cuttings in.

The geraniums I bought at the Geranium Society in Toowoomba are doing well with some doubles, bicolours and variegated foliage.

There is celery, strawberries, lettuce and spring onions in the vege patch, with tomatoes and cucumbers nearly ready.

So many flowers are out – roses, snapdragons, pansies and petunias. The gladioli corms I bought at the Nambour Garden Expo have excelled with beautiful purple, green and yellow blooms. The next lot will flower just before Christmas.

Cleomes are great value easy to grow annuals that flower for months in pink, white and purple. Just sprinkle the seed around and lightly cover for an amazing display.

Keep the fertiliser and water up to citrus as it is now setting fruit.

Alstroemerias or Peruvian lily are doing well, with gorgeous spotted flowers in many colours. These are an excellent long-lasting cut flower. Remember to pull the stems, not cut them.

I would like to wish one and all a merry Christmas and happy gardening in the new year.

WIN A FREE DOUBLE PASS

In 2012, having been lost for over 500 years, the remains of King Richard III were discovered beneath a car park in the UK city of Leicester.

The search had been orchestrated by an amateur historian, Philippa Langley, whose unrelenting research was met with incomprehension by her friends and family and scepticism by experts and academics.

The Lost King, is the life-affirming true story of a woman who refused to be ignored and who took on the country’s most eminent historians, forcing them to think again about one of the most controversial kings in England’s history.

The Lost King stars Sally Hawkins, Steve Coogan and Harry Lloyd and opens in Australian cinemas on December 26.

Your Time has five double passes to The Lost King to be won.

Simply email editor@ yourtimemagazine.com.au with a sentence about what you think you would like about the film, and your postal address*, before December 16.

Passes will be mailed to winners in time for the opening of The Lost King release on December 26. Passes are valid for most cinemas.

*Address is required to post tickets to the winners only, and emails are deleted when the competition closes.

by Mocco Wollert

silently. After I migrated to Australia and lived in Darwin it was the heavy smell of humidity in the wet season that told us that Christmas would be coming soon.

Even though the candles had a tendency to melt in the tropical heat, they still announced that Christmas had arrived. If it rained, the “holy night”’ became even more special, and closer to the real thing.

Christmas is also a highly emotional time, more than at any other great religious event.

The sound of church bells, carols, Christmas trees – even if they are fake – can all play a role in stirring up long-hidden feelings of sadness, loss, hurt, homesickness, hopelessness.

Friendships are made and friendships are broken, marriages break up, children leave. However, it is also a time of reconciliation.

This song, played in most countries in the world, even resounded on our sunbaked beaches in Australia.

I am not interested in the Christmas jingles or the wish list for presents. These things are great for children. It makes it a very special time of year whether they still believe in Santa Claus or not.

For them, Christmas presents are certainly the main part of Christmas Day.

Although I am now elderly, I still have wishes, fervent wishes, which have nothing to do with the banality of presents.

by Cheryl Lockwood

CHRISTMAS! Probably the most joyous time of the year and I do hope that all my readers will feel the happiness and blessings of this season.

I have always loved Christmas, loved the anticipation when I was a child, loved that special feeling which seemed to be in the very air I was breathing.

In Germany, where I grew up, it was the smell of green, live Christmas trees, the cold scent of snow falling

Maybe we think about friends and relatives with whom we no longer have a close relationship or who we have neglected and ignored during the year.

Maybe we mend broken fences, break stupid silences. A simple phone call might heal hurt and resentment.

Then there is all the sentimentality of the season with sugary Christmas movies or listening to Bing Crosby singing White Christmas on the radio.

I wish for peace, I wish for healing of the world, I wish for sanity in our dealings with climate change, I wish for the ending of famine, I wish for wise and responsible politicians. Most of all, I wish for respect and love for one another.

Maybe I am a dreamer like in John Lennon’s Imagine, and if so, I don’t ever want to lose that dream.

In spite of the platitudes and banalities, the tinsel and silly carols, Christmas is still a wonderful time of celebration.

So many feelings, maybe tears, lots of laughter and happy time, whatever it is, may your Christmas be special and love all around you.

AS THE end of another year approaches, it’s time to ramp up the festive cheer. Time to dust off the Christmas decorations, assuming you’ve taken them down from last year, and wonder where on earth another 12 months went.

I used to love the silly season build-up, but as it feels like over-commercialised celebrations blur into one another, my enthusiasm is waning.

The beginning of the month sees me excited over stringing up lights and straightening the scrunched-up branches of my fake tree. I happily unpack trinkets, baubles and tinsel from the boxes they have slept in since January, delight in overloading the tree with colour and risk life and limb draping the verandah with lights.

More and more, I look forward to the end of the month when I clean up and pack the lot away!

Much of the sparkle has little connection to the birth of Christ and I daresay, there are generations who are oblivious to the true meaning.

Sunday School attendance was more important during my childhood and we came away armed with paint-daubed creations, which were mostly hung at the back of the tree, the front being reserved for the worthy store-bought decorations.

When we left home, Mum dragged out the Christmas trimmings for her grandchildren, who started to add their own lovingly made bits and bobs. Nothing was discarded. Eventually, there were more decorations showing than greenery.

There was a wooden decoration which read “JOY”. As it twirled on its little string, one of the granddaughters was heard to ask, “Grandma, what’s YOJ?” We referred to it as “YOJ” from that point and it took pride of place, front and centre of the tree.

My favourite tradition was when Mum would bundle us in the car and drive around the neighbourhood for what we called, “Christmas light spotting”. Unlike now, when houses are hung with enough lights to be seen from outer space, a string of coloured lights was a big deal.

We would comb the streets peering into house windows. This sounds both creepy and suspicious, but our intention

was to spot trees adorned with lights.

Every year, we drove past the one house in our country town which had a whole row of coloured, incandescent bulbs around its gutter. We declared the owners to be wealthy and I aspired to one day be rich and have lights on my house. Of course, I have since achieved this goal, well one of them anyway.

By the time my children were old enough to appreciate houses covered in garish lights, we had gathered quite a few. Each year, we laid out our ever-growing strands to painstakingly check and replace tiny, blown bulbs.

Remember when one malfunctioning light meant a whole section would be dark? The process of finding the faulty culprit took some patience. Along came bright, durable LEDs and I expect many kilometres of old lights went to landfill.

When extra decorations were needed, I covered tiny boxes with scraps of paper and ribbon to fill the gaps on the tree and make a pretty display for my children.

I will unpack those storage boxes again this year because as I look back, I see the memories of Christmases past are hard to shake. Among the commercial hype and the shiny things, for me the season was always surrounded by loving family.

I know that for some, this is not the case. If a little bling brings a smile, I say bring it on. Blessings to one and all for Christmas and a happy 2023!

All shook up and still ready to rock and roll

Elvis may have left the building, but impersonator Pete Memphis is entertaining thousands with a tribute performance that reflects his own, and wife Lyn’s, zest for life as seniors. GARRY REYNOLDS met them at the recent IAgeWell

Often recognised in the street as his Elvis persona Pete Memphis, exciting new opportunities are offering, as they always seem to have done, in Peter Brain’s life.

Pete grew up at Granville in Sydney, which made national headlines in 1977 as the site of the fatal train crash. He had crossed the bridge that collapsed over the line just 10 minutes before the disaster.

Pete’s upbringing was in a solid working-class family. At primary school, he was adept not only at maths but also possessed what his choir teacher described as a “soaring angelic voice”.

In later years, Pete discovered that the school principal had recommended to his parents that they arrange special tuition to prepare him to carve out a career in singing. Not mentioning it to their talented son, they turned the opportunity down. They wanted a more traditional pathway into a suburban job for him.

As Pete progressed to high school, his voice broke, and the singing stopped. His interest in music turned not to Elvis but to heavy rock bands.

With a mind for figures, Pete entered the insurance industry then banking,

which led to him meeting his wife in a Mt Druitt branch of the Advanced Bank when he was a relieving manager. They shared an interest in dancing which continues today at rock and roll pace.

“We’ve been together since 1982, and I mean really together, because after leaving

banking we set up a finance broking business working out of home in 1989,” he says. “This had its moments, particularly when two of our clients were murdered.”

The lively couple’s passion for dancing led to winning 14 national rock and roll dance titles. They still run a weekly

three-hour dance on the Gold Coast called “Coast to Coast Rock n Roll”.

It was dancing that led to the Elvis opportunity unexpectedly turning up 18 years ago.

Lyn and Pete organised a karaoke night for their rock and roll club with guests dressing for the part.

“I learned three Buddy Holly songs for my performance,” Pete recalls. “While the audience loved it, they wanted more, and I had no more Buddy songs, so I sang the only Elvis song I knew. From there my life as Elvis took off.”

It all became a bit of a whirl as amateur nights dressing in a cheap Elvis outfit from a party hire store developed into a life singing both Buddy Holly and Elvis songs took off.

“We put together better costuming and I first became professional when performing as solely Elvis ironically for a bank conference on Hamilton Island resort,” Pete says.

It was an unexpected and treasured bonus when he won a tour to Elvis’s home Graceland in a contest, but most of all he enjoyed meeting people along the way who had worked with Elvis.

Dr Richard Hamilton Johnston is a rare breed, Dr Johnston’s introduction to dentistry was as a top Cosmetic Dental Technician working in Brisbane. This means he is extremely good at making beautiful and functional dentures.

Richard then took a hiatus from the dental profession and joined the Australian Defence force in Army Aviation. Dr Johnston then returned to the dental profession, qualifying as a dentist in 2008. This combination of Cosmetic Dental Technician and qualified Dentist, means Dr Johnston can look after all your dental and denture needs, understanding your oral anatomy, your dental health and how to create functional partial or full dentures that look amazing.

seniors festival.

Pete and Lyn appear in movies, TV shows and commercials. Source: PM.

Dining in Memphis with Elvis’s stepbrother, Billy Stanley, was a privilege and an absorbing insight into Elvis and his family.

Pete has had his own touch with his idol’s story, performing in the Elvis movie as a newspaper reporter.

When their two children left home, Pete and Lyn, were able to pick up parts in movies and commercials, and Pete graduated from an intensive acting course.

Pete uses his Seniors Card to enjoy life but is always squeezing in a little more – he rehearses in the shower.

In preparation for a performance, he will concentrate on fitness and diet, especially 24 hours before a show when he eliminates chocolate, ice cream, milk and especially coffee, which has a drying effect on the voice box.

And he has had some intriguing gigs – Bindi Irwin’s 13th birthday party at Australia Zoo, luxury cruise ships and supporting legends of Australian music such as opening for Brian Cadd.

Pete has no script and still gets stage fright. Fortunately, he has Lyn by his side as his manager, but before he goes on stage, Pete Memphis gets into the zone by talking quietly reassuring himself.

With the popularity of the Elvis movie triggering more demand, Pete and Lyn have had to pass on some requests to other Elvis impersonators, but the opportunities they love to devote much of their energy to are performances for people with disabilities and seniors.

When I met Pete and Lyn, the crowd was singing along and some exuberant seniors got up and danced to their own choreography of Pete Memphis’s dynamic Elvis who is clearly aging extra well.

Garry Reynolds is an author who, as part of his rehabilitation after three strokes, has set out to capture life stories within the seniors’ community.

Pete Memphis in full flight as Elvis.

Milkos were the cream of the crop

After getting up with the birds to milk the cows, farmers had to saddle up. AUDIENNE BLYTH visits Maroochydore in the 1930s when milk carts delivered to homes and camping grounds.

The Nichols family settled on a dairy farm on Eudlo Creek in 1930. It was during the Great Depression and the family was thankful they had plenty of work, even if it was relentless.

Clyde Nichols began school that year and, with his siblings, rowed across Eudlo Creek and walked down a dirt track, now Bradman Ave, to Maroochydore Primary School. The children helped with farm work before and after school.

In 1932, the family purchased a milk run from a Mr Stevens whose farm was just west of the school. A spring cart, a pony, two milk cans and a set of three measures – a quart, one pint and half a pint – came with the sale.

For the next 13 years, the milk run was their life. Prior to the milk run, the cans of cream were collected by Coulson’s Mail Boat and taken to Yandina where they were sent by rail to the Eumundi Butter Factory.

All cows were milked by hand. Cane tops were mulched in the chaff cutter and fed to the contented cows. A horse walking in circles supplied the power and the children fed in the cane tops.

Milk was taken across Eudlo Creek at 5am and 3 pm but actual milking began hours before.

The sign on the milk run cart was “G.R. Nichols Warm Milk Vendors”.

Milk had to be sold warm in the 1930s because there was no refrigeration or pasteurisation. They were mindful of how many hours had passed between milking and delivery. Scalding milk was a way to keep it longer. The run to households went from Bradman Ave, around Picnic Point to Cotton Tree. Milk was also delivered to milk bars for the popular milk shakes.

Finishing about 7.30am the family then went home to clean up and get ready for the afternoon milking and delivery.

As Maroochydore grew, so did the milk run and extra milk from other district dairies was purchased to fill deliveries.

A Chevrolet utility was used to collect milk from dairy farms in Maroochydore Rd, Woombye, Chevallum and Buderim.

The Nichols’ dairy was relocated across Eudlo Creek nearer to Maroochydore. What a day that was when 40 dairy cows were required to swim the creek to their new home.

Christmas and Easter holidays were busiest. These rush days needed extra staff. Energetic young men were the key to fast deliveries. The cart would pull up at camping grounds with a shout of Milko!

Campers appeared with their jugs and the amount required would be measured out – a quart, a pint or a half pint. At other

times a two-gallon billy of milk would be carried from tent to tent to serve the customers.

Pocket money could be made by helping in those busy times.

There were other milk vendors in Maroochydore.

Dick Gill had a dairy on the north shore and rowed the milk cans across the river to different locations and he and his wife would then walk to customers.

He later swam his herd to a farm on the ridge near the primary school.

William Parker’s farm faced Aerodrome Rd. His four daughters hand-milked their herd. Maud, May and Rose were remembered in street names when their farm was subdivided.

Gradually, the old sulkies became worn and tired and more luxurious carts took their place with inflatable tyres and springs and were “boxed in”, something like a chariot.

Source: How Blest My Journey by Clyde R. Nichols, 2006

New milk cart for Studleigh Dairy, Nichols’ farm, in the 1930s. It was built on the axle and wheels of an old Ford car.

Be upfront about improving your memory

Memory is complex but we do know that it involves different parts of the brain. KAILAS ROBERTS reports on the brain structure that can be influenced and, if nurtured, make recall a lot sharper.

The structure known as the prefrontal cortex sits, not surprisingly, at the front part of the brain.

It is especially well developed in humans and probably has contributed to our species becoming the most successful on the planet (depending on how you measure such things I suppose!).

It allows you to read social situations and know how to respond. It helps you stop acting on impulse and engaging in harmful and unwise behaviours. It also is critical for problem solving and organising yourself.

When it comes to memory, the prefrontal cortex also plays a crucial role.

First, it is the part of the brain that allows you to hold things in mind.

Without this so-called working memory, conversations would be very difficult as you would not remember what is being said to you in the moment to be able to formulate a response.

Let’s say you are with a garrulous friend who is telling you about three or four things in a bit of a rambling monologue. Working memory allows you to hold in mind all these different

things so that you can talk about them (assuming you get a chance to respond!).

The prefrontal cortex also underpins your ability to retrieve long-term memories. These are memories that are already stored in circuitry in your brain. They have been encoded and laid down, and just need to be retrieved to be brought to mind.

Problems in this area are distinct from those where the initial laying down and storage of the memory is impaired. This latter situation means that there

may be nothing there to retrieve in the first place and is a hallmark feature of Alzheimer’s disease.

Poor retrieval means it is harder to recall things, especially when under pressure, but they often come with time, especially if you are given a hint.

Tip of the tongue moments are an example of this. After the relevant moment is gone, the word then commonly appears in your mind.

There are many things that affect the function of the prefrontal cortex.

Getting older unfortunately does naturally lead to a reduction in its efficiency, and conditions that cause dementia can affect it, but there are also very much reversible “insults” that can impair its ability.

These include acute and chronic stress and depression, poor sleep and overuse of alcohol and other sedative drugs. With help, these problems can often be overcome.

Meditation and mindfulness may be especially helpful for some, and longterm meditators have been shown in studies to have better prefrontal cortex function.

Exercise, one of my favourite interventions for brain health, can also be very beneficial – improving blood flow, oxygenation, and nutrient supply.

Then there is engaging in activities that use the prefrontal cortex.

Research exists that suggests that there may be benefits using certain computer games and apps (though this is not without controversy).

Everyday tasks such as cooking also provide a great workout for this part of your brain.

Socialising – the tos and fros of conversation – is also a helpful tool that has a lot of other benefits.

So, don’t forget this important part of your brain and do your best to optimise its function. In short, be up-front!

Kailas Roberts is a psychogeriatrician and author of Mind your brain

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

PROBUS MEMBERS TAKE A TRIP BACK IN TIME

PROBUS Club of Currimundi Combined members recently took a trip back in time at the Caboolture Historical Village.

A guide explained the history of the village and the original of its buildings –there are more than 70 pioneering buildings with artifacts on display.

Members then leisurely visited the different buildings such as the Old Post Office, where a life size hologram of the original postmaster welcomes visitors and talks about how he and his family made the dangerous journey from Manchester in England.

He said they ended up following the gold diggers to Gympie then coming to Caboolture to open the post office.

Male members enjoyed the local garage and mechanic workshop and there was

also a hospital, blacksmith, the pottery shop, maritime museum, dairy, police station, hotel, church, and school among many others.

The blackboard in the school room advised that female teachers were not allowed to wear bright colours or be seen alone with a male other than a father or brother, and must be home by 8pm and not out before school time in the mornings.

A scale model train runs around the grounds and is held up by a robber who orders passengers to hand over their valuables.

After leaving the village at 12.30pm, Probus members went on to the Woodford Hotel for lunch before heading home on a scenic route via the Glasshouse Mountains Lookout.

All members had an enjoyable day thanks to trip organisers, Denise Stephens and Trish Shuttleworth.

Call Ann 0409 120 586 or visit probuscurrimundi.org

HERE’S A GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEA

CALOUNDRA Family History Research Inc. recently held a successful Introduction to Family History Research for Seniors course at their rooms at The Sunshine Coast Turf Club.

Participants were shown practical research methods and techniques using the many print and digital resources (including subscription sites) available at the CFHRI Library.

There were plenty of discussions, questions, tips, laughter and learning.

Feedback was that the course was a very high standard and members were extremely friendly and helpful: “As a new family history researcher, I am excited to continue the journey of finding out my past. Very friendly members willing to help with questions.”

And it’s not too late to share the rewards of family history research.

If you know someone who would enjoy taking the journey, an ideal Christmas gift would be a one-year membership with CFHRI.

For $72 (1 year single) or $41 (six months single) learn how best to

accomplish family history goals with like-minded people who have been encouraging and educating others for almost 30 years.

More courses are coming up in 2023 and can be found on the website.

Visit caloundrafamilyhistory.org.au

MEN’S SHED CELEBRATES A DECADE

MAROOCHY Men’s Shed has celebrated its first 10 years – growing from 10-12 men responding to a call from the Rotary Club of Maroochydore in 2012, to a group of more than 140 members with their own Shed.

The fully-equipped workshops and other facilities at Kuluin cater for the interests of men from all walks of life.

The discussion group is popular and challenging along with the successful cooking and singing groups.

There is also an opportunity for members to get involved in administration, leadership roles and fundraising activities.

MUSEUM LIGHTS UP IN NAMBOUR

NAMBOUR Museum will brighten Bury St during December with a Christmas light display.

Everyone is invited to come along on Thursday evenings, December 1, 8, 15 and 22, from 6pm7.30pm. Bring the grandchildren to meet Santa Claus and get photos against a background of the decorated Eudlo locomotive.

Children are free, adults are asked for a gold coin donation.

“This first 10 years has been littered with our support projects across the community, and the long term health benefits for all members,” president Pete Siney says.

The Shed caters for interest groups such as the camera group which enjoys occasional field trips, and an info tech group to help keep up with smart phones and computers.

A garden group grows and donates produce to the Urban Angels, supplying meals to those in need.

Shed members know it is important to be able to sit down with a cuppa and bickies with other “blokes” and to meet new people and form new friendships.

Having a sense of belonging is a great support to mental health and wellbeing while being active slows down the ageing process and rejuvenates purpose and being!

A souvenir booklet written by Bill Glasson giving the Shed history, and a selection of side stories which contribute to the history of the formative years, was launched as part of the anniversary celebrations.

Mary and Nicola inspect the haberdashery.

Carol, Denise, Mary and Julie take a trip to the Post Office.

CFHR training attendees with CFHRI librarian Kate Bowman.

HANDMADE PERSIAN RUGS

Persian carpets are each uniquely handmade, with craftsmanship and skill being passed down through generations. What makes our rugs different is their attention to intricate detail, history and above all, quality. Come see us and learn why our Persian Carpets truly are the superior choice.

All of Persian Carpet Gallery carpets are supplied with certificate of originality. You can also exchange the rugs at any of our stores across Australia. We have the most amazing rugs from traditional Persian to modern.

Persian Tabriz Superfine

Persian Mashehad Vintage Rug

Persian Saveh Wool

Christmas ‘tis not the season for tough talks

Another year passes and as families come together for Christmas, time might be starting to tell on much-loved faces. KENDALL MORTON recommends treading lightly when raising the subject of home care.

Christmas brings families together. If you are not living near your parents, it’s likely that you’ll see changes in them. They may look thinner or seem forgetful. Siblings may whisper, “don’t you think mum’s looking frail?”

You may think your parents need home care. In your opinion, their lives would be socially richer. They would be healthier and safer.

But stop for a minute. I’d advise to wait until Christmas is well and truly over.

This is a difficult conversation that many adult children will have with aging parents and it’s better left for a less emotionally loaded time of year.

When the time comes, here are some general guidelines to help all parties discuss the idea of home care for mum and dad.

1. Rather than stressing what you want and jumping into fix-it mode, ask your parents what they want. Listen to their wishes

and fears and go from there.

2. Stay positive. Praise your parents for the way they have managed their retirement years.

3. Know that talking about change is hard. Your parents may think that accepting help means they have failed. Help them to reframe this. Home care is a safety net that allows them to maintain control and independence for longer.

4. We all take risks and your parents have the right to take risks as they age. Knowing the risks and ramifications is the key.

5. Help them state their vision clearly. For example, it could be to live independently and safely at home and continue to enjoy time with friends, family and neighbours.

From there they can look at the specifics: For instance, “does

climbing up the ladder to put up the Christmas lights, help me to meet this vision?” Some actions will put that vision at risk and can be dropped without an argument.

6. It can be helpful to tell a story. You may have friends whose parents can speak positively about home care.

7. Use the research. Macquarie University researchers found that for each hour of care a person received, they were 6 per cent less likely to be moved into residential care. So, if your mum or dad accepts just five hours of help a week, their chance of staying at home improves by 30 per cent.

8. Start small. Ask your parents about one task they would be prepared for someone else to do on a trial basis. This way they can test out services without pressure. For instance, they may try home-delivered groceries for a month.

9. Choose your time to talk. It

may be more effective to say things as the jobs appear, such as when you see dad sweeping up leaves and puffing and huffing.

10. Be respectful of your parents’ wishes and be prepared to have the same conversations again over time. By sowing the seeds, they can think about ideas, collect information from peers or their doctor and stay in control.

11. A new diagnosis or a trip to hospital can be an opportunity to reassess your parents’ needs with them and help them plan for the future. Health professionals may have valuable information to contribute at this stage.

Remember change happens slowly. Do not turn all your conversations into care conversations. Let go of the small things and enjoy your time with mum and dad. It’s precious.

Kendall Morton is Director of Home Care Assistance Sunshine Coast to Wide Bay. Call 5491 6888 or email kmorton@ homecareassistance.com

Continuous rain brings unwelcome mould

Constant rain has led to a significant increase in mould-related illnesses. TRUDY KITHER discusses the causes and symptoms.

Damp, indoor environments where organisms thrive can affect the health of those within.

Fungi and some yeast replicate by producing many spores that have become well-adapted to airborne dispersal.

They can stay airborne for long periods and deposit in your respiratory system. Smaller spores can reach your lungs.

However, they can also be inhaled, touched or created by moulds colonised within the body, especially the sinus and gastrointestinal tract, due to previous exposure. Mycobacteria is common in moisture-damaged buildings. With fungi, it releases smaller fungal fragments known to contain allergens and mycotoxins.

Mould illness originates in the body from exposure to biotoxins (mould) or toxin-producing organisms from food, water, air, or the mouth.

Biotoxins are of biological origin and produced by plants, animals, insects, and microorganisms are hazardous to humans when inhaled, ingested, or absorbed. Inflammagens are an irritant that produce swelling and inflammation by binding to receptors in your body.

Antigens are substances from your

environment, such as pollen, bacteria, chemicals or viruses, tick-borne illness or blue-green algae.

With a direct impact on your nervous system, symptoms can include sleep disturbance, cognitive impairment, trouble finding words, fatigue, brain fog, nerve pain or ice-pick pains, static shock, chronic pain, gastrointestinal disorders and breathlessness.

You cannot achieve wellness with chronically circulating mycotoxins. Optimising your detoxification and elimination pathways is the first step to

restoring your health. Not doing this first will lead to toxicity in your gut and constipation.

Constipation leads to the toxins remaining in your gut for much longer, damaging it, and then being reabsorbed in your body to circulate again.

Mycotoxins also damage beneficial bacteria, causing a cascade of inflammatory responses in the body. Vagus nerve damage and changes to the autonomic nervous system are the result.

The other is Chronic Inflammation Response Syndrome (CIRS), a chronic multi-system inflammatory syndrome.

It starts with exposure to a biotoxin (such as indoor dampness but could be other biotoxins) and then disrupts multiple body systems.

The impact on the immune system is suppressed immune activity. Signs include increased hypersensitivity, asthma, allergic reactions and a reduced ability to fight infections.

There are many symptoms of CIRS–joint pain, morning stiffness, weakness, a decreased ability to assimilate knowledge fully, aches, light sensitivity, headaches, vertigo, unusual skin sensitivity, tingling, cough, excessive thirst, urination,

confusion, memory impairment, static shocks, sinus congestion, breathlessness, watering eyes, disorientation, metallic taste, poor concentration, red eyes, blurred vision, night sweats and mood swings, post-nasal drip, sneezing, rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, swollen lymph glands, ear popping, bumps at the back of the throat, hay fever, and allergies.

It can also be iron deficiency anaemia, irregular heartbeat, food sensitivities, sweet cravings, abdomen pain, irritable bowels, irritable bladder, kidney inflammation, bacterial infections, fungal infections, “jock itch”, burning lungs, heaviness in the chest, colds go to the lungs quickly, sensitive or itchy skin, burning sensations and flushing.

The good news is that once the illness is recognised, it can be treated safely and effectively with specific, herbal antifungal treatments via a step-by-step targeted approach.

Always ensure you speak with a qualified and experienced naturopath who can take you through the correct steps safely and effectively.

Trudy Kither is a naturopath, herbalist, and iridologist at Nature’s Temple Wellness Clinic. Visit naturestemple.net

Beds R Us is a locally-owned family business supporting local sports clubs and school sports. Owner Brad and his team will ensure you are given the best advice and the best price when purchasing your new bed from Beds R Us.

An adjustable bed might be right for you as it can assist in pain relief from conditions such as arthritis and sciatica. It can reduce back pain, help eliminate snoring and assist with asthma.

We have a great range of adjustable beds and are proud to support local manufacturers, Sleepmaker and Sleepyhead, who supply us with leading technology mattresses.

Brad and the Beds R Us guys look forward to meeting you, please see a couple of customer reviews below.

Awesome experience the guys there really know their stuff.... Highly recommend.”

“Great staff, very professional and helpful, a very good range of beds and mattresses.”

“Finally, friendly non-pushy sales people. Very helpful and great prices.”

Take a broomstick and fly high

Whether you spend your summer gardening, golfing or playing with the grandkids, being active is more fun when your body moves easily. TRISTAN HALL shows how a simple stick can help maintain your range of motion.

A

With the right exercises, you can improve balance, proprioception (understanding where your body is in space) and flexibility.

Before you start, remove the brush from the broomstick. Alternatively, use a long piece of dowel or purchase specialised exercise sticks online.

These come with silicon grips for your hands but a simple piece of dowel that fits your hands comfortably is fine.

Avoid overly long sticks which can be unwieldy. The idea of working with sticks has a Vietnamese history. Army officer Master Mai Bac Dau from South Vietnam spent four years in a Communist prison camp where he developed a set of 12 exercises to help him improve his health and survive his imprisonment.

This system became known as Longevity Stick Art (LSA). In 1995, Master Dau arrived in the US and introduced the longevity stick which became popular with retirees in particular.

These days people gather in parks in England, France, Canada and Australia to practise longevity stick.

The first exercise in the longevity stick system is rotating the shoulders. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart. Hold the stick in front of you with hands near the end of the stick.

broomstick may not sound like a piece of exercise equipment, but it can help you move in a slow, even and controlled manner.Breathe in and lift the stick above your head and as far behind your head as is comfortable.

You may reach your middle back. Arms will be at full length but do not lock the elbows.

Repeat this movement slowly for a few minutes. Remember to breathe.

Another longevity stick movement is sitting on the heels. Stand with your feet about a foot apart. With arms straight, hold the stick in front of you.

Raise your arms in front to shoulder height. At the same time, squat back towards your heels as far as comfortable, then lower arms as you stand up.

Repeat this movement for a few minutes in a fluid manner.

Western exercise programs also use sticks to assist you with flexibility, mobility and balance.

When you are doing squats, hold the stick in front of you at shoulder height to help your stability.

The stick can alleviate tight chest muscles which cause you to hunch forward.

Hold the stick behind you with arms facing the ground.

Raise arms and lift the stick upwards behind your middle back. Hold that position for 10-20 seconds. Repeat 10 times.

Sticks programs can be tailored to address individual needs.

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

FIT HAPPENS With Tom Law

THE cruise ships are back and everywhere are stories that the world’s oceans are ready for the masses again. Many have missed the cruising lifestyle and being pampered passengers.

I like cruising and have been on four cruises ranging from three to seven days, but I can also see where the holiday lifestyle and abundance of food and drink can add to waistlines while at sea.

When asked, I give the following advice to anyone who is about to walk the gangplank: Make sure you eat all or at least the majority of your meals in the dining rooms.

The variety and quality of the meals in the dining rooms is amazing. The nature of the way the courses are served and the measured meals mean you will have plenty to eat and drink.

The buffet is often more accessible, and meals are served for a much longer period, but it is too easy to

overstay in the buffet area.

After all, there is plenty to do on board rather than spend too much time in the buffet.

Use the stairs onboard if you can. This is a perfect opportunity for you to burn up some calories and get in some incidental exercise.

Of course, if you have mobility issues, the lifts are very convenient, but it you are capable, use the stairs.

Lastly, go to the onboard gym once a day. After all, you don’t have to travel too far. If the gym is not your thing, then do a few laps of the upper deck and get some sunshine at the same time.

And there you have it. Three ways to help you enjoy your holiday on board, and keep your waistline from bulging.

I admit that I do follow my own advice and actually lost a couple of pounds on my last seven-day cruise.

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

VISIT

Greenwood Forest Glen has already taken over-50s community living to a whole new level, but now with our Stage 4 release, we’re reaching new heights, quite literally. That’s why we’ve dubbed this exclusive release of 31 residences ‘The Heights’.

These elevated blocks with a choice of luxury single-level or double-storey homes with lifts, sit overlooking our 5-hectare private rainforest reserve and with views of the Blackall Ranges.

In every way, these homes reflect the Greenwood philosophy that living in harmony with nature is intimately linked to health and vitality, and it flows through everything from the connected native gardens to the expansive community orchard and vegetable plots.

So, living at ‘The Heights’, you’ll not only enjoy all of the community features and facilities that have made Greenwood a favourite among active and social over 50s, but you might also feel a little bit special.

Love actually should be part of any retirement plan

as they have into building their superannuation? VICKI BENNETT looks at

Baby Boomers were sold the idea that if they amassed a certain amount of money, and achieved their goals, it would make them happy.

Most of us have figured out that this isn’t the case. We know that money doesn’t buy happiness.

Two in three Australians have experienced the pain of divorce, some more than once. Some people overachieve in several areas of their lives but have felt frustrated about how to find love and happiness.

A successful retired head- ofdepartment of a high school was completely at a loss about how to sustain a healthy relationship with her partner.

There is a yearning in each of us for connection with that one exceptional person but life is challenging.

We are expected to contribute, be perfect mothers and fathers, engaged grand-parents, available friends, and tender lovers.

We have to calmly juggle everything, balancing our lives while dealing with the annoying changes in aging bodies.

Even with these challenges, we are connected more now than ever through

social media and our communities, but when it comes to love we struggle to find it, express it, keep it, or untangle from it.

Human beings are optimistic, pessimistic, funny, troubled, enthusiastic, unsure, hilarious, kind, angry, disappointed, confident, shy, happy, sad, and joyous but most of all curious – about our lives, about possibilities and choices for the future.

Love offers choices for love, discovery, and change for those who are ready but happiness, like anything, must be invested in to build and sustain.

Many people are afraid to open their hearts to trust another person just in case they are misunderstood or hurt.

They are afraid that the stakes are too high, and there’s always the risk that if they love someone, they will be rejected.

Opening your heart to love another person takes courage. There is always the risk that love won’t work out and you will be hurt.

When difficult times arise, it’s easy to divert to self-blame rather than think constructively about what part you

have played in your love life. Be truthful but don’t over-state your part. Diving into blame, shame, or guilt will not solve anything and will take away from self-esteem.

If you blame your partner for all of the problems in the relationship, you will lose any chance of talking through the issue.

The truth is that one person alone is never responsible for a problem between two people.

Problems arise with each person playing some part in creating it.

Recognise that you have added something to whatever difficulties you are having. Accept that you can talk with your partner about these issues as a step along the path of growing together.

Most people want happy lives. They want to be happy in their relationships, their work, their friendships, and the way they learn.

Think carefully about what you would like to achieve in your life – what do you think would help you to be happy?

Think across every part of your life.

A retirement plan for happiness could start with these simple steps:

• Walk or exercise.

• Write a daily journal or begin a memoir.

• Take time for yourself every day, even if it’s just 15 minutes.

• Do something out of the ordinary for someone you love, remind them of their strengths, or do something kind for them.

• Do something creative for yourself — paint, dance, draw, sing or write.

Making goals for these things will help you to enjoy a balanced, happy life. You can choose to look for happiness even when things are difficult.

How many people have put as much effort and energy into their future happiness

love and relationships in making a retirement plan for happiness.

Vicki Bennett is the author of 100 Keys to Love. Visit vickibennett. com.au

One for the boys … or the girls who care about them

Although more women suffer depression than men, it’s a sad fact that men are three times more likely to take their own life. JUDY RAFFERTY takes another look at the old nature vs nurture debate.

As a psychology undergraduate, fresh out of school, I was writing assignments on nature vs nurture in the gender argument – do male and female children behave differently because of the way we raise them or because they are biologically different?

The message in Psychology 101 was clear. If you want a good grade, form an argument supporting the view that differences are a result of nurture not nature. I got good grades.

In my late 20s, I was a representative for affirmative action for women at a corporate level. Affirmative action legislation in Australia was called the Affirmative Action (Equal Opportunity for provide better career and progression

enormous burden of expectation. They are

you don’t cry and look like a git, then how can you learn to identify your emotions so that you can express them?

Often male depression looks different to female depression and as such, psychologists treat it a little differently.

I am writing about this because, while rates of depression and anxiety are a little higher for women than men, there is another damning statistic that makes this difference irrelevant – men are three times more likely to die by suicide.

Men over 85 have the highest suicide rate in Australia.

Often there is a spike in depression in retirement. Depression does not go away as we age. One in 10 older adults have

A Bra For Every Woman

Now stocking more brands and the largest size range from AA to K.

Great news for the women who struggle to find a great fitting bra. Our new bigger brighter store has enabled us to expand our range to include sports bras, full figure and maternity as well as our traditional post mastectomy wear. Our goal is expertly fit your bra so you feel amazing in your clothes. Visit our new store and experience the Tracey G service.

ew store and G

Australia leads the pack off-road

Ford’s latest family of Ranger utes and Everest wagons is handsome and handy. BRUCE McMAHON ponders what could have been if other major manufacturers had established ute and SUV centres in Australia.

Kalgoorlie with comfort and competence.

A little bit wider than predecessors and with revised suspension, fresh engine options plus a swag of modern technologies, these Ford utes and wagons are very much on the money – if a tad dearer than before.

Rangers start at $35,930 for a basic two-wheel drive ute and end up at $85,490 for the off-roading outlaw Raptor model, a four-door, four-wheel drive performance machine.

The very civilised 4WD Everest wagons start at $57,990 and work up to $76,880 for the Platinum version.

shopping lists if chasing a well-sorted family wagon with proper four-wheel drive ability. It has the chassis, clearance and 4WD system to tackle the roughest of tracks while maintaining excellent on-road manners and composure. Towing capacity remains at 3500 kg.

Among the utes, there’s a wide range of choice between variants and options, easy to custom-build your own Ranger.

While the increase in cabin and tray widths is much appreciated, Ford’s new drivetrains are smooth and rarely found wanting.

Imagine if, instead of building cars, manufacturers in the 1980s had dedicated Australian operations to engineering and designing workhorses and off-roaders. The talent’s obviously here, “real-world” testing conditions are here, and arguably the world’s most finicky customers are here.

Mitsubishi would be sorting out Tritons and Pajeros for the world, Holden could have kept on partnering with Isuzu, and Toyota Australia would be having a

field day engineering that crowd’s long list of work and play horses.

Others, such as Mazda and Nissan, may have joined this mob; maybe Europeans would have piggybacked off the Australians, as Volkswagen has done with this new generation of Fords.

So, the 2023 Rangers and Everests are world-class, driven in the main by the demands of Australian drivers who want, if not always need, vehicles that can be driven to either kindergarten or

There are engine and transmission options plus a spread of trim levels for both utilities and SUVs. Most come with a full suite of safety aids such as blind spot monitoring and crash avoidance systems.

Head to the top of the range and drivetrains include an automatic fourwheel drive setting, allowing the Fords to be driven on any surface with the transmission left to decide to send torque to front wheels when necessary. This is a very welcome mode when out touring indifferent backroads.

The Everest is, yet again, a “must” on

The revised suspension offers the most noticeable improvements. The previous ride and handling balance was good, but this time the ute’s composure on good or bad road is very good and makes for a safer road vehicle.

While these Fords continue to be excellent workhorses there is a very sporting outlaw at the top of the pile – the Ford Ranger Raptor is super quick, super capable. Super fun all round. There’s even a Baja mode to sort out mechanical settings to go scorching across the Sahara.

No question, Australians can design a world class ute or SUV.

Home sweet home comes in many forms

Most of us cling to the hope that we will remain living at home to the bitter end, but DON MACPHERSON explains, downsizing to a retirement village shouldn’t be confused with aged care.

meals supplied. On the other hand, retirement living, whether in a retirement village or an over 50s resort, usually starts off with fully independent living, albeit on a smaller floorplate than one’s former home.

Retirement living can transition to minor or increased home assistance, while still maintaining a significant degree of personal independence.

funded assistance is available to people still living in their “old” home, but what increasingly becomes apparent is that the “old” home is getting too big, and too hard to maintain, hence the need to downsize (the industry calls it “right size”) to retirement living accommodation.

People have often told us that they will never be moving into one of those “retirement places”.

“I’m going to be living in my home until I die,” they say.

On further inquiry it’s evident that some people confuse aged care with retirement living.

Often, they don’t truly understand what these options involve and what is provided. They fail to see the significant

benefit, indeed often the need, to move from the old family home to a different but more age and health appropriate form of accommodation.

Aged care homes are commonly the last stop on the journey of life. They are akin to a low-care hospital bed, where the care can be intensive and continuous.

You get your own room, with shower and toilet, but usually have all

FUN SIDE HUSTLES TO CASH UP FOR CHRISTMAS

WITH inflation projected to rise to 8 per cent, and the cost of living continuing upwards, households are looking to supplement income.

And the good news for pensioners is that they will be able to increase their part-time wage from $7800 to $11,800 without affecting their pension.

Here are five service-based businesses, all owned by women, with some ideas for finding a job to cash up for Christmas.

All are free to join and have benefits such as training and insurance cover.

1. HOUSE AND PET SITTING – With so many travelling, there is high demand for house and pet sitting services. Tasks include food and water top-up, litter box cleaning, handling emergency situations, and taking pets to the vet. Offer minding in your own home or in the pet’s home. A police check is $53. Training is free,

Many retirement villages facilitate in-home care, for a fee, which prolongs the independent nature of the living environment while providing an appropriate level of assistance to allow that to continue.

Government funded or supported assistance can also be available in retirement villages, and over 50s resorts.

This assistance allows residents to stay in their new home while getting the care they need.

Of course, Government or privately-

All of these options – aged care, retirement villages, and over 50s resorts – have their own specialist contracts. Each comes under separate legislation, whether state or federal, and sometimes a combination of both, and involves a significant financial outlay, with major long term financial consequences.

Proper legal advice should be obtained to fully appreciate what is being signed up for.

Don Macpherson is an expert in elder law at Sunshine Coast Elder Law. Call 1800 328 952 or visit sunshinecoastelderlaw.com.au

insurance is provided. Baby boomers are making an average of $400 a week pet sitting with PetCloud, an NDIS registered company created by Deb Webber. Visit petcloud.com.au

2. BABYSITTING – Connect with parents looking for verified local carers for their children. Kiddo App, created by mother of two, Rebecca Dredge is available in major capital cities and holiday destinations. It costs less than $10 for a working with children check and Kiddo carers are making up to $300 a week with a few nights babysitting on the side. Visit kiddoapp.com.au

3. WASHING AND IRONING – A mobile laundry service founded by Susan Toft is always looking for reliable people who don’t mind washing and ironing, pickup and delivery from their own home. Visit thelaundrylady.com.au

4. HOUSEKEEPING – Become one of almost 100 housekeepers who help with light cleaning, tidying, changing linen, and folding laundry through a housekeeping service founded by Natalie Haddock and operating in Brisbane and Sydney. Visit getyouhousekeeping.com.au

5. COOKING – A cooking service company founded by Bek Daley offers a personal chef-type service without the need for chef qualifications. Great home cooks simply prepare meals prepared from a curated menu. Head office takes care of payments and shopping lists. There is an in-home cooking program for NDIS participants, to help gain confidence in the kitchen. Visit ih8cooking.com.au

PETS

PETS NOT JUST A PRETTY FACE OF THE MONTH

MORE than 60 per cent of retirement community residents see pets as a key source of emotional support.

Interacting with animals has been found to lower blood pressure and reduce levels of the stress-related hormone cosrtisol, while also boosting mood.

A pet can not only reduce loneliness and depression, but improve cognitive impairment in those with dementia.

They also encourage exercise and help with rehabilitation, such as stroking the fur particularly among stroke patients.

Researchers have also found that petting or talking to dogs can lead to improved cardiovascular health, and both cat and dog owners can experience fewer minor health concerns.

Benefits to mental and emotional wellbeing have also been identified.

Animals improve psychological wellbeing and social interaction for those who live alone; and improve social function and impulse control.

Studies have found pets buffer the impact of stress, increase self-esteem and reduce anxiety.

And there are many abandoned pets waiting to help their new owners reap the benefits.

Beautiful Betty Lou is 10 years old and is a friendly older lady looking for a retirement home. She was left at the pound unclaimed. She has a gentle nature and would fit easily into most homes. Adopt her for $70.

www.petsafe.com/AU

Meet Blue a 9.5-year-old Kelpie-x boy who is looking for a forever home. He weighs only 22kg and loves his walks, car rides and playing.

He loves spending time indoors and to sit at the front or back door and see what’s happening in the world. He has great hearing and doesn’t miss much at all. He is a very quiet dog.

He is very good on a lead, as we walk him with a halti. He has been very good with every dog that we’ve met on our walks, but prefers the bigger dogs.

Blue has a medical condition that is being treated and will be ongoing. SCARS will cover the costs of the treatment.

Blue would be best suited to a person who is home often. He is very chilled out and able to entertain himself if you go out for long periods. Homes with cats or birds would not be suitable.

All cats and dogs are vet checked, vaccinated, wormed, desexed, microchipped and medically treated if necessary. The refuge at Sippy Creek Road, Tanawha (adjacent to the Council Pound) is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-5pm. If you’d like to adopt call 5494 5275, email office@sippycreek.com.au or find more details at sippycreek.com.au

THE benefits of pet ownership are well recognised and there are pets who need owners too. The Sunshine Coast Animal Refuge, established in 1979 to provide temporary refuge and find new homes for abandoned, abused, stray and unwanted cats and dogs, this month introduces:

Oral health – it’s the bleeding obvious

If your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth, you are not in perfect health. RICHARD JOHNSTON explains that it means that the body is more susceptible to disease.

Can you imagine taking an oldfashioned nail brush, gently rubbing it across you finger nails and thinking it is okay if blood starts to appear? Or if you simply pressed on any area of your body and saw blood seep out?

I imagine that if either of these happened, you would be making a quick visit to your doctor or an emergency department – yet thousands of Australians seem to think it perfectly fine if their gums bleed. It is not, and here’s why.

Periodontitis or periodontal/gum disease as it often referred to, is a chronic inflammatory disease that compromises the integrity of the tooth-supporting tissues, that is gingiva, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone, collectively known as the periodontium.

Inflammation, literally meaning “in flames”, is one of the body’s defence mechanisms to kill germs.

Inflammation is a great thing when it is harnessed for short periods of time, such as when you cut yourself, but when it is sustained or even permanent as with untreated periodontitis, the effects can be

deadly. Germs that cause cavities and gum disease don’t stay put and can spread throughout the body, especially if your immune system is weak, and infections can be serious and end in hospitalisation. But don’t take my word for this. Over the past 20 years the broader medical community has come together and conducted thousands of studies on

the topic. Common sense tells us that the body is not departmentalised, but beyond this the research is conclusive and has directly linked the following medical issues with oral disease: cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, stroke, kidney diseases, peripheral vascular disease, dementia, adverse pregnancy outcomes, aspiration pneumonia, stomach ulcers, oral cancers and obesity.

If there is a history of any of the above in your family and you have bleeding gums you are at a greater risk of developing these problems.

This list includes pneumonia and respiratory diseases – exactly what we are witnessing with the most recent version of a Corona virus disease.

Since the last major outbreak back in 2012, referred to as SARS, universities around the world have linked susceptibility to catching Corona virus to the reduced immune response caused by periodontitis.

The same would have to be true for the latest attack of Corona virus – Covid 19.

So, if your gums are inflamed or bleed

when you floss or brush, then you need to seek help.

Your regular dentist is well qualified to diagnose your individual situation and many can treat this disease. In certain cases, your dentist might refer you to a specialist periodontist for treatment, but whatever the outcome, you should seek diagnosis immediately.

Finally, did you know that wearing dentures actually shortness life expectancy by 10 years?

If untreated, the natural results of periodontitis is the loss of tooth which eventually can lead to the total loss of all teeth and the need for a denture.

Many studies have been done and show this group of people on average live 10 years less than people with a healthy mouth – let’s not let it get to that.

And this is all The Bleeding Obvious (a trade mark of Beerwah Dental Group) where you can pick up a free copy of the Dental Board’s report Links between Oral Health and General Health.

Dr Richard Johnston is practice principal at Beerwah Dental. Call Beerwah Dental 5494 0766 or visit beerwahdental.com.au

INDUSTRY EXPERTS

LEGAL

ORTHOPAEDIC

SKIN HEALTH

Are you an ‘undue’ influencer?

You might well be and not know it …

In the legal world of Wills, Estates and Powers of Attorney, you don’t need a relationship with half-a-million Instagram followers to exert influence.

In fact, you only need one.

Most people are not aware that if they accept an appointment to act for someone under an Enduring Power of Attorney, they create a relationship that can give rise to a presumption of influence.

The Powers of Attorney Act details that where a person (the Principal) appoints an Attorney, any later transaction between the Principal and the Attorney is presumed to have been entered into by reason of the Attorney’s influence.

This presumption operates even where the transaction has been performed by the Principal. That is, the Attorney hasn’t actually “done” anything – such as signing forms or documents.

The Attorney might be forced into a position of having to disprove the presumption of influence and demonstrate the transaction was entered into by the Principal freely and voluntarily.

Before you appoint an Attorney, you need to carefully consider who you appoint – particularly if there is any chance you might be considering providing that person with some gift or benefit in the future.

Radiofrequency Ablation for knee osteoarthritis

Chronic knee pain doesn’t have to be met with surgery or medication. Radiofrequency ablation is a non-surgical procedure that involves the insertion of a needle-like probe into the skin. This probe delivers radiofrequency waves to target nerves that are causing pain.

Radiofrequency ablation is a safe and effective procedure with minimal recovery time. The results are demonstrating 12 months pain relief and functional improvement specifically for knee pain and osteoarthritis. RFA is especially beneficial to those seeking an alternative to surgery and are not getting the desired results from non-operative measures such as injection therapy and lifestyle modifications.

The procedure is completed in approximately 20 minutes, with sedation. Unlike surgery RFA involves no incision. The patient may experience some discomfort at the site for a short period, but this discomfort can be treated with common over-thecounter medication.

Sunshine Coast Orthopaedic Group has a team of health professionals with knowledge and expertise in radiofrequency ablation. Contact www.scorthogroup.com.au to find out more

Common skin cancer myths debunked

Did you know melanoma diagnoses in Queensland are up to 82 per cent higher than the national average?

It’s important to take skin cancer seriously and debunk common myths so we can be better informed about our skin health and cancer risk.

MYTH: Melanoma only grows from existing moles.

FALSE. Skin cancer more often develops in new lesions on the body.

MYTH: Melanoma is the only deadly skin cancer.

FALSE. Squamous cell carcinoma (more common than melanoma) and other skin cancers can be fatal too.

MYTH: Darker skin doesn’t need sunscreen.

FALSE. Everyone needs sunscreen when UV levels are 3 or above because skin cancer grows on all skin types. Sunscreen protects skin cells from damage.

MYTH: Only sun-exposed areas of the body are at risk of skin cancer.

FALSE. Skin cancer can grow anywhere. MYTH: Sunscreen isn’t required when wearing makeup.

FALSE. Even SPF-rated makeup does not provide adequate sun protection. Always wear sunscreen under your makeup.

Top holiday picks for 2023

If you are wondering where to go for your next holiday, then let me share my top five choices for 2023.

Topping the list is Queenstown in New Zealand, and why not? It is just across the ditch and good to visit in all seasons. A little further afield, and a little more exotic, is Morocco and Portugal, and this is a great combo trip to take. Japan is back on my list and always a popular choice. Great food, culture, and easy travelling for all ages. Plus, the advantage of a reasonably short flight.

For staying close to home the top choice for me is Western Australia. A trip over to Perth feels like leaving the country. Take a trip out to Rottnest Island and meet the quokkas or visit the wine region of Margaret River.

Of course, my list is much longer, and I always find Christmas the right time to start planning the following year’s getaways. Sit down with pen and paper and pick four short breaks and pop them in the diary. This way you are guaranteed at least a long weekend holiday. From there, short list your choices for a longer break and start sourcing some quotes. The earlier the better at the moment. If you are stuck for ideas, then give me a call as I have plenty of great suggestions just waiting to be shared.

SUNSHINE COAST UNIVERSITY PRIVATE HOSPITAL

SPOILED FOR CHOICE IN FINDING COMMUNITY

DURING the past year, Stockland’s Halcyon Communities have expanded to provide community living options to suit any over 50s lifestyle.

Two unique communities provide something for everyone.

At the southern end of the coast is Halcyon Nirimba in the heart of Aura, Australia’s largest master-planned community with shops, restaurants and medical facilities nearby.

Through meticulous planning, homeowners are connected to Aura’s wider network of parks and cycling trails and are located within walking distance of the future city centre.

Inside the gates, homeowners enjoy exclusive access to the Sunshine Coast’s “best backyard”.

A modern take on the traditional Queenslander, The Clubhouse includes sweeping outdoor verandas with a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces including a gold-class style cinema, heated swimming pool, library, multi-purpose room, gym, bowling green and pickleball courts.

An alfresco entertaining area has a communal kitchen, pizza oven and barbecue facilities.

Master-planning and house design has delivered contemporary Australian architecture. Halcyon Nirimba resonates with the lifestyle that the Sunshine Coast

offers – a light, bright and relaxed coastal destination.

At the other end of the coast B by Halcyon at Buderim is a premier over 50s lifestyle community surrounded by lush rainforest. Staying true to Buderim’s spirit, expansive facilities create a village atmosphere with carefully designed spaces that invite the outside in.

The Wellness Centre is the Sunshine Coast’s largest private day spa facility, from a heated magnesium salt pool to luxurious private spa rooms and fully-equipped gym.

For those wanting to be active or discover their creative passions, B by Halcyon features an expansive Village Hub and Creative Arts Pavilion as well as floodlit pickleball and tennis courts.

Designed for living and built for life, the open plan homes have state-of-the-art fittings and superior finishes for minimum maintenance and maximum style.

Call 1800 050 050 to organise a visit.

STEPPING UP TO THE GOOD LIFE

HOMEOWNER Melissa Andrejic finds GemLife Palmwoods over-50s lifestyle resort perfect for her daily routine – long walks through the natural environment that surrounds the popular Sunshine Coast hinterland resort.

“When I walk, which I love, I listen to my favourite music and breathe in the fresh mountain air. It makes me feel alive. It can take me to another place entirely and there is no better way to start a day,” said Melissa, who recently moved from Cairns to settle at GemLife Palmwoods.

“Walking and being active are also excellent for clearing the mind from any stress and gives me an opportunity to just enjoy the great outdoors, the country atmosphere and the beautiful nature that surrounds us.”

One of her favourite walks is from her over 50s lifestyle resort into the relaxed town of Palmwoods.

“It takes me about 40 minutes to walk to Palmwoods, then I stop and have a coffee before heading home again,” she said.

A business and maths teacher for the past 33 years, Melissa has always enjoyed keeping fit and active. Once she has settled into her new home, her interest in cycling will be another passion she expects to rekindle.

“I also can’t wait for all the facilities here at GemLife to be completed because I will definitely be getting back into

THE FUTURE AT OAK TREE OPEN DAY

COMFORT and convenience is on the doorstep at Oak Tree Retirement Village, Pelican Waters.

Retire to the quiet end of the Coast in a luxury apartment where garden maintenance is not your problem.

After living in Pelican Waters for 20 years, Carol and Keith (pictured) knew they were on to a good thing, but with gardens, a lawn and pool to maintain, about five years ago they decided it was time to think about their next move.

Now residents at Oak Tree Pelican Waters, they’ve slowed down and are

loving the relaxed, peaceful village lifestyle, as well as the convenience of having everything they need just a stone’s throw away.

“The general facilities in the immediate Pelican Waters area are excellent,” Carol says.

“There’s a marina being built nearby, there are lovely local walks to follow, and we’re close to the water.”

Oak Tree is not just a village but a community.

While expanding the social circle and making new friends in senior years might

swimming, tennis and the gym. It’s all free and it will be virtually on my doorstep to enjoy whenever I like.”

Melissa, a mother of two sons, also enjoys having the sand between her toes on some of the Sunshine Coast’s beaches, including Maroochydore which is just 20 minutes away.

Moving to GemLife Palmwoods has been a dream come true for Melissa who broke into tears of joy when asked what she thought of her new home within the resort.

“Everything including the fittings and finishes are so beautiful. I’m just looking around now, and can’t believe what I have here. I’m so lucky, and it’s all mine.”

GemLife resorts offer premium recreational facilities and beautifully designed, low maintenance homes, created exclusively for the over 50s.

Call 1800 317393 or gemlife.com.au

seem daunting, it’s a place where residents are surrounded by like-minded people at the same stage of life.

Facilities and activities make the process of creating a new social circle easier – be as social as you like – and enrich your retirement doing more of the things you love.

The loyal companionship of pets can contribute to good health, and residents are welcome to bring their furry friends with them.

The luxury apartments are selling fast. Open Day, December 2-3, 10am-2pm

Melissa Andrejic loves her new home.

Aussie World Ride Operators

Ride Operator Requirements

WHAT’S ON

BOOK NOW FOR AN AFTERNOON AT THE PROMS

IN A salute to the BBC Proms Concerts of London’s Royal Albert Hall, An Afternoon At The Proms Spectacular is coming to the Sunshine Coast, bringing a promenade of formal special guests for an afternoon of magnificent entertainment.

Join one of Australia’s most multitalented performers, Paul Martell, the gala’s MC as he presents Opera Australia stars, a pipe band and The Blue Danube Orchestra under the baton of conductor Glenn Amer, to evoke the sheer exuberance of A Night At The Proms.

As well as well-known favourites Rule Britannia, Jerusalem, Land of Hope and Glory, the program includes the greatest

love songs of all time such as Love is a Many Splendored Thing, Mario Lanza’s The Loveliest Night of the Year, Stranger in Paradise and selections from South Pacific.

The City of Brisbane Pipe Band salutes the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and with the orchestra, performs Amazing Grace, Skye Boat Song, Scotland the Brave and the magnificent Highland Cathedral.

The packed program is two hours and 20 minutes.

The Events Centre, Caloundra Sunday, February 19, 2pm.

Tickets $89, concessions $85, groups 10+ $81.

Bookings theeventscentre.com.au

CAROLS NIGHT HERALDS THE HOLIDAY SEASON

BUDERIM Community Carols herald the beginning of Christmas celebrations for families from around the Sunshine Coast, with a showcase of talented local performers on December 11.

The evening will be full of opportunities to sing along, with performances from Buderim Mountain State School Choir, Sunshine Coast Youth Orchestra, Buderim Youth Theatre and the Elite Dance Institute.

The event is hosted by the Buderim War Memorial Community Association (BWMCA) with the support of the Bendigo Community Bank Buderim. Bring chairs or rugs and enjoy the sausage sizzle by Buderim Scouts and treats from other community

organisations, including fairy floss from the Buderim Foundation, popcorn from Buderim Mountain State School P&C, baked treats from the Buderim Uniting Church and ice blocks from the BuderimPalmwoods Heritage Railway team.

Safeflame candles and other fun products will also be available.

Community organisations will be operating carparks with entry by donation at Buderim Mountain State School, Buderim Uniting Church, and St Mary’s Catholic Church.

In the event of bad weather, the show will go on at the Buderim War Memorial Hall next to the park.

Buderim Village Park. Sunday, December 11, 5.30pm for a 6pm start. Entry gold coin donation. Follow BWMCA on Facebook.

CHORALE PRESENTS CHRISTMAS CONCERT

CALOUNDRA Chorale and Theatre Company’s Christmas concert will see the adult choir joined by a delightful group of children – the CCTC Next Generation and the wonderful Show Biz Kids.

Having just completed eight sold out performances for the Soc-Pop concert, Musicals that Changed Us, the children and adult members, have bounced back with their infectious enthusiasm and commitment, to sing their hearts out this Christmas.

The choir is conducted by the awardwinning Kim Kirkman.

There will also be a Christmas Market.

CCTC Theatre, 3 Piringa St, Wurtulla December 9, 7.30pm; December 10 and 11, 2pm. Tickets $25, concessions $23, includes supper/afternoon tea.

Bookings 0490 329 912

CHORAL SOCIETY MAKES A SEASONAL

FAREWELL

SUNSHINE Coast Choral Society conductor Adrian King presents A Choral Society Christmas as his farewell performance before handing the baton to Lincoln Scott.

The choir will perform favourite Christmas carols composed/arranged by John Rutter and audience participation will be encouraged.

Soloists are soprano Fiona Simpson, baritone Andrew Burns, tenor Lincoln Scott with accompanist Natasha Koch. Refreshments will be served after the concert.

Gregson & Weight Memorial Chapel, 159 Wises Road, Buderim. December 11, 2pm. Tickets $30, concession $25. Bookings suncoastchoral.org.au or Yvonne 0431 550 713

HOLIDAY ART GALLERY

BUDERIM

Painting Group’s Holiday Art Gallery returns from late December to mid-January.

The walls of the Gallery will be full of art as several groups from the Buderim Craft Cottage contribute to offer a variety of mediums and styles.

In the holiday spirit, there will be a family twilight sale and sausage sizzle on Friday, January 13, from 5pm. Refreshments are available on weekends in January.

Buderim Craft Cottage, 5 Main St, Buderim. Monday, December 26-Sunday January 15, 10am-2pm

THE Sunshine Coast Concert Band will get into the holiday spirit with its Christmas Cheer concert. Afternoon tea and raffle prizes on offer.

Kawana Community Hall, Nanyima St, Buddina. Saturday, December 10, 2pm. Tickets $20 cash only, available at the door.

Craft Cottage

Remembering the first bite of the travel bug

just accepted that this was landing procedure – until it was announced there would be a delay as the rough touchdown had caused some damage.

Finally, Australia disappeared into the slipstream and after a stopover in Bahrain, we landed at Heathrow on a freezing March morning.

When I was a kid in the early 1960s, my big brother was given a game called Heads and Tails for Christmas which, as the name suggests, involved matching the pictures of people in national costumes from around the world.

There was a little Dutch girl in clogs holding a tulip, a German boy clad in lederhosen, a Zulu warrior, an Aladdin-style Arabian in harem pants and vest, an Eskimo beside his igloo, and so on – you get the picture.

Although my brother wasn’t wildly excited by the cards, he did resent the fact that I took them from his drawer and played with them endlessly. I believe that’s where my fascination with the world and travel began.

It continued at high school, where I was fortunate to have a well-travelled French teacher who was Armenian-born, English-raised, and Sorbonneeducated, and who happily sprinkled entertaining stories of

her life’s adventures into the lessons.

When she gave me a wellworn copy of the Paris Match with a picture of the Eiffel Tower on the front cover, I thought all my Christmases had come at once. I pored over that magazine for months, dreaming of faraway places.

Finally, in 1978, it all seemed possible. Rather than investing in the great Australian dream of home ownership, we booked one-way tickets to London. As one wise, old friend put it, “why buy a castle when you have a world of castles to visit?”.

Strangely, the cost of that one-way ticket which seemed an enormous amount at the time, is about the same as we pay today – or were paying pre-2020.

The Qantas jumbo dwarfed the Brisbane airport terminal –the first had flown into Brisbane only seven years earlier.

First stop was Darwin. When the overhead lockers flew open spilling contents into the aisle, we

There were four of us and, clinging to suitcases fresh off the baggage retrieval system at Heathrow – a description that came courtesy of Monty Python, we stood in the terminal looking numbly at each other while wondering what to do next.

The dream had been to fly to London, buy a van and go to Europe, and hadn’t really been developed much beyond that. Finally, someone had the bright idea that we should find a hotel and be free of the luggage.

But where? Memories of the 1972 comedy The Adventures of Barry McKenzie, were still fresh: “Let’s try Earl’s Court. It’s Kangaroo Corner.”

We found a phone box with massive phone directories inside, chose a hotel at random and booked before moving on to how we were going to find it. The London A-Z would become a most valuable tool, along with the Tube map.

I knew it would be cold, so I had packed my Queensland winter sweaters, blissfully ignorant of the true meaning of freezing. Nothing in my 21 years had prepared me for the bonechilling winds biting London.

The Kombi van and a tent became a home for four for six months.

There was still a day ahead of us after finding the dodgy hotel in Earls Court and dropping off the bags, so we immediately set off in search of overcoats and luckily, with the English smelling Spring in the chill air, there were plenty of sales.

That our jackets were identical wasn’t a concern. They were warm and nobody knew us in this huge city that, at the time, had the same population as the whole of Australia.

Next stop was finding wheels for the grand European adventure, so it seemed as good a time as any to check out the campervans parked around Australia House in the Strand. We hadn’t wandered for long when we got chatting to a Western Australian couple in a white Volkswagen Kombi.

It had Dutch registration and the steering wheel was on the left which, we decided, would work well as it was destined to spend the summer on the

Continent. It did mean, however, that the driver who drew the short straw would have to come to grips with changing gears with the right hand while negotiating the frantic left-hand drive streets of central London.

An hour later, after working out how to turn the first of our prized American Express traveller’s cheques into cash, the Kombi was ours.

Despite the crazy daze of it all, we were optimistic, and stopped to buy the tent and sleeping bags that would see the van become a home for four for the next six months. Not a bad effort.

It was late afternoon and dark when we returned to the hotel and flopped on to the dubious, but warm, bunk beds. One by one we dropped out of the self-congratulatory conversation into a deep sleep.

And so ended the first day of a lifetime of being torn between the comforts of home and exploring the globe.

It was an exciting rare moment to see a jumbo take off from Heathrow,

There was a time when European travel wasn’t a rite of passage for young Australians. ALLISON WHITE reminisces about taking the plunge for her first overseas trip in the 1970s when it was still a big deal to head to the opposite end of the Earth.

BILL McCARTHY

SCARS have the strange power to remind us that our past is real, wrote American author Cormac McCarthy. This author certainly has plenty of them.

I am sorry she had such an awful childhood and I really hope she found writing the book cathartic. While memory is the diary that we all carry about with us, most of us have an imperfect and incomplete recollection of our lives. The almost hour by hour recollection of this author’s life was completely impossible to countenance. I found the book unreadable – too much detail and too lengthy. It seems that there are too many people who feel they have to inflict on the poor reader a book about a less than perfect life.

SUZI HIRST

YET another self-published book filled with sadness heartache, and abuse. The sins that her parents inflicted on Mikki (previously Mavis) lasted and coloured her whole life from childhood through to adult life.

John, her husband was totally in love with her and devoted his life to trying to make her whole. I think he must have been the most patient, loving husband and saved Mikki from herself so many times when the darkness overtook her and sent her spiralling.

We all have a story in us, some harder than for others, but do we write books about it? No. The book is long and I struggled to pick it up and finish it!

JOHN KLEINSCHMIDT

THIS is a perceptive and thought-provoking book, giving the reader a greater insight into the long-lasting and deep-seated effects of abuse in childhood.

The author has courageously told her story which made it difficult, at times, to become enmeshed with her family and feel their pain. She has told this story to not only help herself, but also others who are holding similar secrets, unable to open themselves to the world.

The author admits she “writes as she talks”, which was jarring at times and while I have great admiration for authors who self-publish, it does make attention to detail and rigorous proof-reading more difficult. Throughout the book it is obvious that Mikki Cooke has put her heart, soul and life into this book – she is to be commended for her efforts. Mikki is a remarkable woman – a true survivor.

BOOK review

THE HUNGER

By Mikki Cooke

Mavis Barnes began life in a home that offered neither love nor safety. In 1974, she changed her name and with her husband and young family came to Australia to silence the memories of betrayal in the slums of post-war England. Clinging to the adage “from little acorns mighty oak trees grow” she writes of a time when society in both England and Queensland, lived to a different set of values. Her story covers changes down the decades. Despite her self-sabotage as she searches for love, Mavis develops a sense of self through her writing. She dedicates her memoir to those who give shelter and “believe in us until we can believe in ourselves”.

THIS memoir is a remarkable story of survival by a child who was little more than a slave in a loveless home in England to become a loving, nurturing mother and wife in Australia.

Mavis Barnes, the oldest child of six was abused in almost every way, traumatised by parents that showed her only the worst side of human nature and expected her to take responsibility for her siblings, resulting in a broken education and significant childhood trauma.

Mavis finds then destroys her self-belief many times before marrying a loving husband, changing her name to Mikki and migrating to Australia where she found a better life.

This book is well written, a page turner that, in turn, lifts and dumps the spirits of the reader as it unfolds.

AT the age of 76 Mikki Cooke self-published her memoir of horrific physical, emotional and sexual abuse during childhood.

The lifelong effects of early developmental trauma on herself and her siblings are vividly described.

Unresolved memories, deep feelings of insecurity and a fragmented disturbed personality provoked a lifelong search for love, security and a deep hunger to be a happy, whole and real person.

The love of her beautiful husband, doing a university degree, becoming a yoga teacher, psychotherapy, friends, family, feline and canine friendships have helped her journey to wellness which has taken more than 50 years. Well written and great book cover artwork as well.

Well done, Mikki. 8/10

I FOUND this a difficult book to read and hard to review. It is hard to fathom that two adult parents could be so devoid of affection and basic care for Mikki and her siblings. I felt anger that there were so many times in her childhood when intervention could have happened but then again, this still happens to children here in Australia, where innocent children are abused and returned to their dysfunctional families. The media reports such cases in graphic detail.

It is most of all a story of survival helped in no small way by the support of her indomitable husband John. Mikki’s story is a testament to the human spirit and its longing for learning and fulfillment. So many have a far from ideal childhood and if it encourages just one person to work through his or her childhood demons, then it will have done its job.

As a profound example of trauma in childhood “The Hunger” should be inspiring reading for anyone with an interest in working with children and family trauma.

JAN KENT

TONY HARRINGTON

JO BOURKE

Who wrote the play, As You Like It?

The Bulls represent which state in cricket?

Which bodily organ is affected by macular degeneration? 4. In which ocean are the Cocos (Keeling) Islands?

What relationship to you is your son’s wife? 6. On which continent did the Mayan civilisation live?

Express 25% as a decimal. 8. Who played the role of Hans Solo in the 1977 film Star Wars? 9. What emotion is associated with “seeing red”? 10. What word is closest in meaning to “munificent”: generous, hungry, lonely? 11. Which is the common name for ascorbic acid? 12. Two statues of which animal “guard” the doors to Brisbane City Hall? 13. What is the highest legal speed on any Queensland highway? 14. What would a German woman usually do with a dirndl? 15. What supermodel had the nickname “The Body”? 16. In chess, what piece cannot move backwards? 17. In TV, what does “sitcom” literally stand for?

18. Who was the first Australian Prime Minister with the first given name “Robert”?

19. On a meteorological map, what weather is likely when the isobars are close together?

20. What kind of living thing is a “roughie”?

comedy; 18. Robert Menzies; 19. Strong winds; 20. Fish.

Answers: 1. Shakespeare; 2. Queensland; 3. Eye; 4. Indian; 5. Daughter in law; 6. North America; 7. 0.25; 8. Harrison Ford; 9. Anger; 10. Generous; 11. Vitamin C; 12. Lion; 13. 110 km/h; 14. Wear it; 15. Elle Macpherson; 16. Pawn; 17. Situation

Kendall Morton Director

ACROSS

1 A few returning from deployment like skirt(4)

4 Cleaner opposed war after experiencing a conversion(4,6)

9 Spiritual meeting, one called initially in bishop’s office(6)

10 Pole placed by Telstra out of line has shocking effect(8)

11 It’s used to open special book published for learners(8)

12 Scapegoat mostly stood back, for example(6)

13 Small springs, covered with oil, may be grubby(10)

16 Monkey going after one small bird(4)

17 Small research centre set concrete(4)

19 One who ridicules fault in items made in China?(3,7) 21 Travelling salesmen not losing heart in a long time(6) 23 Case nearly finished off a star lady-killer(8) 25 Staff rigged boat on east side of one Canadian lake(8)

Connected individual holding nothing back(6)

Fault initially connected with light plane reduced aviation schedule(6,4)

Punchers violated laws(4)

DOWN 2 Freeze one cup filled with ether primarily(3,2) 3 Wayward teens, occupied at the centre, become anxious(5,2)

Powered vessel passed water snake in strait(9)

American living in Illawarra can’t broadcast action in a swimming pool(10,5)

Fruit and vegetables cultivated on both sides of river(5)

Understanding about fractional measurement is lacking(7)

Treated green extract tipped over is powerful(9)

Desired ambition and glory made out in greeting(4,5)

Sends word, informally, to read the riot act(5,4)

Seal applied to the outside of metal material used to make flags(7)

One living in country residence without additions(7)

Yell out following silence(5)

Record not included in lovingly remastered records(5)

Wetter in terms of weather (7)

General style of cooking (7)

Expert (10)

Allow (3) DOWN

In a logically consistent manner (10)

Related to government (9)

Male angler (9)

Noblemen (5)

Most pleasant (6)

Very fat (5)

Location (4)

Quit (6)

Valuation (10)

Things causing annoyance (9)

Article expressing editor’s opinion (9)

Relating to elementary particles (6)

St Francis of — (6)

Combine (5) 25 Rocky stuff that forms a reef (5) 26 — and cons (4)

E N

Today’s Aim:

R O J I G

I

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once.

No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

WORDSTEP

No. 065 No. 065

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

12 words: Good 18 words: Very good 24 words: Excellent

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

BEATS