Bowling & Lifestyle Winter Edition 2023

Letter from the editor

Welcome to the 2023 winter edition of Bowling&Lifestyle Magazine. Many thanks to everyone that continues to support Bowling&Lifestyle Magazine. Your commitment and dedication to the magazine is very much appreciated.

We are also incredibly honoured to once again have Australian Icon Tony Bonner AM as our guest writer. Don’t miss Tony’s incredible article ‘’KING CHARLES FINALLY EMBRACES HIS DESTINY, AFTER A LIFETIME OF SERVICE.’’ Plus, the latest news from ‘’BOWLS AUSTRALIA’’ and Lawn Bowls Icons ‘’HENSELITE’’ who, this year celebrate 105 years in the Lawn Bowls business.

We are once again giving one of our lucky readers the opportunity to win a copy of Prince Harry’s controversial memoir ‘’SPARE.’’ Plus, we pay tribute to Rock N Roll Queen Tina Turner, and feature an exclusive interview with Australian Rugby League Legend, Paul Harragon, all the latest news from the Royals and much more.

Special thanks to Bowls Australia and our Lifestyle & Entertainment Columnist, Catherine Colusso for all their wonderful stories. Plus, a huge thank you to all the clubs, bowlers and businesses who have sent in stories, latest events and articles. We love hearing what is happening at your club.

‘’KEEP THE STORIES COMING.’’ Many thanks also to all our wonderful advertisers, who make this magazine possible. Read our latest and past editions on ISSUU ‘’FREE OF CHARGE’’ at https://issuu.com/sales. bowlingandlifestylemagazines.

Head on over to our Facebook & Instagram pages and give us a like/follow and support Australia’s only National Lawn Bowls Online Magazine. Thank you for reading our magazine. We appreciate the support.

From the team here at Bowling&Lifestyle Magazine.

Please stay safe

Until next time…

Rosslyn Wren Catherine Flier Catherine Colusso Publisher CEO Lifestyle & Entertainment Columnist

Publisher | Rosslyn Wren

Advertising and Editorial inquiries: 0424 672 796 or email to rwren7@bigpond.com

Artwork and Design | Adele Dhillon

Copyright: All material appearing in this magazine is copyright. Reproduction in whole or part is not permitted without permission from the publishers.

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INCLUSIONS: 18 nights in Africa on a private guided safari - Meals &

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Notice: To ensure the information in this magazine is accurate, no responsibility is accepted by the publishers for material supplied by an individual, company or organisation of for a typographical error p: 0422 920 75.

We are giving one of our lucky readers the To celebrate the historic coronation of King Charles III, we are once again giving one of our lucky readers the opportunity to win a copy of Prince Harry’s controversial memoir “SPARE.’’

To be in the draw, email your entry to Bowlsplus1@bigpond.com

2023 AUSTRALIAN OPEN –WHAT MADE IT WONDERFUL?

Another Australian Open is done and dusted, and boy was it phenomenal.

Bowls fans were dazzled to some of the most extraordinary matches across the fortnight in addition to a plethora of players achieving remarkable results throughout the event.

Let’s dive in to why this Australian Open was one of the best yet.

Sherriff remains in power

It was almost the perfect tournament for Aron Sherriff, who was a piece of Aaron Wilson brilliance away from completing a Grand Slam at the AO.

The 37-year-old claimed the singles title for a record extending fifth time, becoming the first male to defend his crown and the first bowler to achieve the feat in consecutive years.

On top of that, Sherriff clinched his maiden fours title at the tournament following a classic encounter that saw he and his rink of Aaron Teys, Barrie Lester and Corey Wedlock overcome Brendan Wilson, Clinton Bailey, Scott de Jongh and Nick Cahill by a single shot in one of the best contests of the whole event.

The Broadbeach member was one end away from pairs victory as well, with he and Teys leading by two shots with just one end remaining before Wilson struck gold in the final end to guide himself and Ben Twist to a second successive crown.

Despite being ever so close to the elusive triple, Sherriff capped off a sensational event with the title of Player of the Tournament after one of the most dominant displays in Australian Open history.

It is his second accolade, joining Kelsey Cottrell as the only bowlers to be awarded the trophy on multiple occasions.

Twisty and Disco times two

It was history for Aaron Wilson and Ben Twist as they became the first male pair to successfully defend their crown after yet another sensational final that came down to the last changeover.

After a gruelling battle against Brett Spurr and Ben Winther that saw them clinch the title in 2022, Teys and Sherriff would be their next foes in the way glory.

The New South Wales pairing led for the majority of the contest before their opponents scored a three on the penultimate end to race to a two-shot advantage with just 12 bowls left in the clash.

Gerick and Young show us the future

Only two bowlers had won the Under 18 singles disciplines since 2019 with no event in 2020 and Kate Argent-Bowden and Joseph Clarke winning both the girl’s and boy’s tournaments over the last two years. With both turning 18 since last year’s edition, it was time for a change as both Riley Gerick and Reese FinnYoung grabbed their chances en route to maiden titles at the Open.

Gerick enjoyed a phenomenal final against fellow Queenslander Samuel Collier in which his forehand draw was sublime, storming out to an unassailable 16-3 lead before holding off a fast finish from his opponent to take the trophy.

Finn-Young has once again proven to be one of the most in form juniors in the country and would once again face Amity Bickley for a national title.

The pair joined Emma Spicer and Noelene Dutton as the only duos to go back-to-back.

Millerick lights up Broadbeach

Having moved clubs from Broadbeach to Moama, Cassandra Millerick was back to her old stomping ground as she saluted for the biggest title of her career, the blue ribboned women’s singles. Facing off against her friend, defending champion and fellow 2021 Australian pairs conqueror Kelsey Cottrell in the decider, it was always going to be a titanic tussle.

Cottrell has been the supreme singles player over the past 15 months, winning almost every event she has taken part in, and it looked as though regular proceedings would resume as she stormed to a 7-0 lead before Millerick pegged the deficit back.

From there it was bowl for bowl, shot for shot and end for end but it was Millerick who was left with her arms in the air in one of the most wholesome celebrations the Australian Open has ever seen.

Lindfield puts 2022 heartbreak behind her

After falling to Pamela Branton 19-21 in last year’s Multi Disability Women’s Singles tournament, it looked as though history might repeat itself for Para Jackaroo Cheryl Lindfield, who found herself 2-11 in arrears to her Commonwealth Games and upcoming World Bowls Championships teammate Serena Bonnell. But the Mt Gravatt exponent fought her way back in what was to become one of the most epic clashes of the entire tournament.

Lindfield would not see the lead until the 25th end and as the three hour time limit closed, the 64-year-old finally secured the shots she needed to secure a 21-17 victory and a maiden Australian Open crown.

From there it was Wilson who turned the tables, overcoming Teys’ shot bowls and ensuring that Sherriff was unable to take the ascendancy back.

Just two greens away from where the pair met in last year’s Under-18 Championships final at The Nationals, the result would not change as the Right at Home Pathways Jackaroo withstood the challenge to claim yet another accolade in her already growing trophy cabinet.

Your support can help Camp

Quality bring positivity, fun and laughter back into the lives of kids facing cancer.

Cancer affects whole families and makes every moment about sickness and treatment. Juggling hospital stays, work and years of treatment often means families no longer get the chance to spend quality time together. It’s common for them to even forget what it’s like to have fun. Camp Quality camps make up for some of that precious lost time.

Our programs and services help families build optimism and resilience through community, education and fun.

We are there for kids (0-15) dealing with their own cancer diagnosis, or the diagnosis of a sibling, parent or carer, every step of the way.

Our programs provide hospital support, age-appropriate education and camps, fun days and family retreats that provide families with a break from cancer to reconnect and build a supportive community.

We rely almost entirely on the generosity of everyday Australians to help us provide our programs and services free of charge.

Every child deserves a childhood with memories of having fun with their family, not one defined by chemo, hospitals and isolation. But we need your help. Leaving a gift in your will can help give a child battling cancer their childhood back. Help them have a childhood, not a cancer-hood. For more information on Camp Quality go to www.campquality.org.au

IN AUSTRALIA, THOUSANDS OF KIDS ARE IMPACTED BY CANCER EACH YEAR.

You’re invited to play on Norfolk Island

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‘Watawieh’ … G’day from Norfolk Island …

A short flight from Australia, Norfolk is a lawn bowls ‘Pacific Island Paradise’

The local Norfolk Island Bowls Club is renowned as one of the friendliest you’ll find, which the club slogan sums up as “there are no strangers in this club, only friends you haven’t met”. Locals find genuine pleasure in welcoming visiting bowlers, it really is easy to see why bowlers of all skill levels are drawn to these tournaments.

It doesn’t take long for visitors to slip into ‘Norfolk mode’, which is ‘easy, easy, easy’. The airport is 5 minutes away so, if you choose, you can deplane, collect your bags, book in and be on the green within an hour of arrival!

The Norfolk Island Bowling Club is located in the heart of town with a number of accommodation options very close-by. As a golden rule most things are 5-10 minutes away from the Bowling Club. There’s no such thing as traffic jams on Norfolk, in fact the Island has no traffic lights, two roundabouts and locking your car is optional.

Comps are held throughout the year and offer plenty of variety with Pairs, Triples and Fours events:

South Pacific Pairs: 16 - 25 February 2024 is an open competition with mens, womens or mixed pairs.

Christian-Bailey Agencies Bounty Bowls: 04 - 12 May 2024 is the Club’s longest standing signature fours event

NIO Classic Triples: 17 - 25 August 2024 has mens or womens teams and a minimum of five qualifying rounds.

Of course bowlers are welcome to travel as a group or individually and the Norfolk Island Bowling Club also invites bowlers to join them at any time of year. Those traveling with friends or fellow Club members for a social bowls holiday will find plenty of socialising and playing with the local bowlers.

Book with the locals at Norfolk Island

Travel Centre, locally owned and a proud sponsor the Norfolk Island Bowling Club. Contact

Cost of Retirement at record levels due to inflation

Senior homeowners are currently facing the daunting challenge of rising living costs in retirement. As expenses continue to escalate due to inflationary pressures, finding a reliable solution to access additional funds to meet these costs, is becoming crucial. For many homeowners, Homesafe Wealth Release® offers a unique opportunity for seniors to tap into the equity of their homes without going into debt or downsizing.

Rising Living Costs and Financial Pressures

The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) reports* that retirees face mounting financial pressures due to the rising cost of essential goods and services. Seniors have experienced significant increases in expenses such as electricity (+15.5%), leisure activities (+14%), and food (+8%). Medical and hospital services costs have also risen by 4.2%, pharmaceutical product prices by 4.5%, and insurance costs by 3.5%. These factors have put a strain on the budgets of senior homeowners, particularly those relying on fixed incomes.

Source: ASFA budgets for households and living standards for those aged around 65

Unlocking the equity in your home with Homesafe Wealth Release

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^Terms, conditions, and eligibility criteria apply. Homesafe Wealth Release™ is available in 90% of eligible postcodes in Melbourne & Sydney.

The program operates on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday, 9.30am - 2.30pm and is located at Colonel Light Gardens SA.

Social connection for Seniors

Care & Share at Trinity is a social activity program for people 65yrs and over who are living in the South/East Metropolitan area.

It can be awkward meeting new people, but not at Care and Share. Our staff ensure that everyone is welcomed and have the opportunity to join in the conversation and fun activities while enjoying a relaxed informal club style atmosphere. The aim of the program is to enhance the general health and wellbeing of all participants and be a place to meet and make new friends. The activities include board games, indoor bowls, bocce, conversation groups, memory games & quizzes, relaxation exercises, cards, bingo, craft and the occasional guest speaker. A delicious home-style 2 course hot meal is also served for lunch.

To be eligible participants need to be 65 years or over, reasonably mobile and independent with personal care. How to become involved: You are welcome to come along and be our guest for a free trial day. Please contact the Program Manager Janine Callegari on 8276 1144 for further details. There is a small fee that regular participants are asked to contribute towards the cost of the activities/program and lunch ($20.00). If transport is not required, the fee is $17. Transport may be available to and from the program depending on your proximity to the Mitcham Council region.

A referral from myagedcare is required prior to regular attendance. The Program Manager will assist you with this process if required. (1800 200422) myagedcare.gov.au

Alternatively, participants who receive a Home Care Package (HCP) can attend the program via an arrangement with their provider. HCP clients are not eligible for CHSP funding so the attendance fee will be at a higher rate. Care & Share at Trinity and is funded by the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) and is administered by the Trinity Baptist Church.

2023 AUSTRALIAN OPEN –DAY 14 WRAP

Men’s singles final

Aron Sherriff’s domination of the Australian Open singles competition continued on Friday, claiming his fifth singles crown.

Arguably the best bowler in the world, Sherriff was in illustrious touch throughout the entirety of the Australian Open, claiming two titles as well as runners-up in the pairs.

He capped off his week with the singles victory over a gallant Jacob Nelson, competing in his first Australian Open singles final.

24-year-old Nelson settled his nerves well from the outset, leading 3-0 to work his way into the contest well. As expected, it didn’t take Sherriff long to respond, levelling the scores as the duo went shot for shot throughout the middle stages of the game. Scores sat level at 11-11 before Sherriff began to make his move.

Five consecutive shots to the reigning champion put him in the box seat, but Nelson held his nerve, picking up a three to move the scores back to 14-16 in favour of Sherriff.

But it was the Broadbeach local who knew how to get to the finishing line, scoring 10 of the last 13 shots of the match to write his name into the history books – again.

Sherriff said he was “

”

over the moon

with the win.

He becomes the first man to win back-to-back Australian Open singles crowns, and the first ever to win singles titles in consecutive years.

Final score: Aron Sherriff def Jacob Nelson 21-14

Women’s pairs final

Genevieve Delves and Natasha Van Eldik mounted a comeback to remember on their way to taking out the Australian Open women’s pairs title on Friday. Taking on the impressively-credentialed duo of Carmen Anderson and Ellen Falkner, it was the latter that took a firm grasp on the contest from the outset.

The Cabramatta pair took the first four ends to lead 9-0 before Delves and Van Eldik picked up a three of their own to hit the scoreboard.

The teams shared honours over the middle stages, but it was ends 13 and 14 when the Raymond Terrace pair made their move. Picking up a two and a three on consecutive ends, they brought scores level at 13 apiece, before another twist in the tale.

A three to team Falkner on the 15th end put them back in the box seat, before team Van Eldik stole the show. With five Australian Open titles between them, they used all of their experience to roar back and level the scores at 16-16, before winning the final two ends and take out a memorable final win.

“It’s really special. I can confidently say I don’t think I’ll ever win anything better than this again,” Delves said after the victory.

Final score: Genevieve Delves & Natasha Van Eldik def Carmen Anderson & Ellen Falkner 19-16

Men’s fours final

One of the matches of the tournament took place to decide the conquerors of the men’s fours event and it was the quartet of Barrie Lester, Corey Wedlock, Aaron Teys and Aron Sherriff who clinched the epic encounter with a 15-14 win over Brendan Wilson, Clinton Bailey, Scott de Jongh and Nick Cahill.

Sherriff’s rink led for the majority of the contest thanks to some sensational precision but it was Cahill who consistently provided respite at the back end for his team.

The Emerging Jackaroo’s resolve saw his squad emerge from a 13-8 deficit to level the contest at 14-all with an end to play, but with the four Australian representatives holding sway it was up to Cahill to find a result with his final delivery, but alas it was not to be and it was Sherriff and company who lifted the trophy aloft. Sherriff’s performance at the tournament is well documented, having now won a seventh on green title, but it was a maiden crown for Wedlock and a second for Teys and Lester.

Over 60s men’s pairs final

Greg Brims and Eric Ryan took down former champions Max Jaffray and Neville Jenkins as they secured the over-60s men’s pairs title on Friday.

Brims and Ryan took the jump early, leading 12-1, a lead their Queensland opponents could not reel back in.

Jonathan’s family leaves a legacy

Three-year-old Jonathan had a rocky start to life, after being diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) within 24 hours of being born.

HLHS is a condition whereby the left side of Jonathan’s heart was born too small to function effectively and was unable to pump his blood around his tiny body. To alleviate his condition, Jonathan underwent two open heart surgeries –the first of which was performed when he was only seven days old.

“Before he was taken away, we held him for what could have been the last time. It was not the beginning to his life that we had imagined. His chest remained open for three days post-operation to allow his swelling to go down, and I will never forget that sight,” remembered Jonathan’s mum, Jess.

Jonathan has since undergone two further openheart surgeries, and his treatment is ongoing. He will require cardio appointments every few months to monitor his progress and another surgery in a few years. His family cite the Foundation’s support as invaluable during one of the most difficult periods for the family.

Due to the support that Jonathan received during his hospital journey, his family have decided to leave a gift in their Will to the Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Both Jonathan and his sister, Liesel, have spent time in hospital, so the family thought it was important to ensure that other families who find themselves in similar situations can be supported by the Foundation.

“As Jonathan will need at least one more open-heart surgery, we know that Children’s Hospital Foundation will be there to support us when his operation happens. The gift in our Will was easy to do when we wrote our Wills using Gathered Here, which took some of the stress out of creating this important document. It’s something we’ve encouraged our friends and family to do,” added Jess.

Gathered Here is a free and easy step-by-step online Will writing service which is supported by an in-house legal team.

To enquire about leaving a gift in your Will, please contact Fiona Gosschalk, our Philanthropy Manager on 0429 818 799 or giftsinwills@childrens.org.au

your Will

They managed to cut the score back down, but it was Brims and Ryan who were able to hold on for the victory.

The win was a second title for Brims, who won the one and only instalment of the over-60s mixed pairs back in 2014.

Final score: Greg Brims & Eric Ryan def Max Jaffray & Neville Jenkins 20-10

Over 60s women’s pairs final

It was the South Australian sister-in-laws of Debra and Karin Lynch who secured a remarkable title win against the South Tamworth duo of Carol White and Christine Myers after rectifying a four shot deficit with three ends to play to claim the title. After taking an early buffer the Lynch pairing were put under immense pressure by their counterparts, with White leading to perfection and Myers anchoring superbly to secure a fourth lead change as they rocketed out to a 15-11 lead.

The South Australians then clicked into gear, securing a two before Karin was able to convert a four in the penultimate end to ensure that they enjoyed favour with just an end to play.

In the decisive end the pair held two with Myers having the final bowl to possibly secure an extra end, but the sublime construction ensured that the family members would take home their maiden titles.

Final score: Debra & Karin Lynch 20 def Carol White & Christine Myers 15

Under 18 boys’ singles final

Queensland’s Riley Gerick was in action against fellow statesman Samuel Collier for the title and looked on song from the outset as he secured 11 of the first 14 ends to race out to a 16-3 lead. His opponent would begin to claw his way back

however, clinching five of the next six to cause some nerves in the game of the Capalaba member. The final end saw two brilliant lead bowls give Gerick the ascendancy, with Collier unable to claw his way back to wrestle shot away, granting him a maiden Australian Open crown.

Final score: Riley Gerick def Samuel Collier 21-12

Under 18 girls’ singles final

In a replay of the 2022 Under-18 Australian Championships singles final, Merimbula-Imlay’s Reese Finn-Young and Berwick’s Amity Bickley met again at Broadbeach, this time vying for the Australian Open under-18 girls crown.

Finn-Young took the 2022 honours, but it was Bickley who flew out of the blocks on Friday, opening the match with a maximum to mark her intent.

The young NSW star settled into the game well shortly afterwards however, taking the ascendancy before Bickley fought back with scores 11-11 during the middle stages of the contest.

Finn-Young would go on to win seven of the final 10 ends and secure the title, to go with her national championships gold.

Final score: Reese Finn-Young def Amity Bickley 21-15

Player of the tournament

It was no surprise that Sherriff claimed the 2023 Australian Open player of the tournament honours. Winning two titles (singles and fours), as well as runners-up in the pairs, Sherriff collected 240 ranking points.

Cassandra Millerick’s impressive tournament was rewarded with 136 to finish second in the standings.

The RAF discovered that a 15 year-old ‘Gate Guard’ Grand Slam bomb – was actually LIVE!!!!

Apparently when Lincolnshire County Council were widening the road past RAF Scampton’s main gate in about 1958, the ‘gate guards’ there had to be moved to make way for the new carriageway. Scampton was the WWII home of 617 Sqn, and said “gate guards” were a Lancaster… and a Grand Slam bomb.

When they went to lift the Grand Slam, thought for years to just be an empty casing, with an RAF 8 Ton Coles Crane, it wouldn’t budge. “Oh, it must be filled with concrete” they said. Then somebody had a horrible thought …. No!….. Couldn’t be? … Not after all these years out here open to the public to climb over and be photographed sitting astride! …. Could it? …. Then everyone raced off to get the Station ARMO. He carefully scraped off

many layers of paint and gingerly unscrewed the base plate.

Yes, you guessed it, live 1944 explosive filling! The beast was very gently lifted onto an RAF ‘Queen Mary’ low loader, using a much larger civvy crane (I often wonder what, if anything, they told the crane driver), then driven slowly under massive police escort to the coastal experimental range at Shoeburyness. There it was rigged for demolition, and when it ‘high ordered’, it proved in no uncertain terms to anyone within a ten mile radius that the filling was still very much alive!

Exhaustive investigations then took place, but nobody could find the long-gone 1944, 1945 or 1946 records which might have shown how a live 22,000 lb bomb became a gate guard for nearly the next decade and a half. Some safety distance calculations were done, however, about the effect of a Grand Slam detonating at ground level in the open. Apart from the entire RAF Station, most of the northern part of the City of Lincoln, including Lincoln Cathedral, which dates back to 1250, would have been flattened.

The Grand Slam was a 22,000 lb (10,000 kg) earthquake bomb used by RAF Bomber Command against strategic targets during the Second World War. It was the most powerful non-atomic bomb used in the war. Known officially as the Bomb, Medium Capacity, 22,000 lb, it was a scaled-up version of the Tallboy bomb and closer to the original size that the bombs’ inventor, Barnes Wallis, had envisaged when he first developed his earthquake bomb idea. It was also nicknamed “Ten ton Tess”.

When the success [of the Tallboy bomb] was proved, Wallis designed a yet more powerful weapon… This 22,000 lb. bomb did not reach us before the spring of 1945, when

we used it with great effect against viaducts or railways leading to the Ruhr and also against several U-boat shelters. If it had been necessary, it would have been used against underground factories, and preparations for attacking some of these were well advanced when the war ended. —Sir Arthur Travers Harris (1947).

On 18 July 1943, work started on a larger version of the Tallboy bomb, which became the Grand Slam. As with the original Tallboy, the Grand Slam’s fins generated a stabilizing spin and the bomb had a thicker case than a conventional bomb, which allowed deeper penetration. After the hot molten Torpex was poured into the casing, the explosive took a month to cool and set. Like the Tallboy, because of the low rate of production and consequent high value of each bomb, aircrews were told to land with their unused bombs on board rather than jettison them into the sea if a sortie was aborted.

After release from the Avro Lancaster B.Mk 1 (Special) bomber, the Grand Slam would reach nearsupersonic speed, approaching 1,049 ft/s (320 m/s), 715 mph (1150 km/h). When it hit, it would penetrate deep underground before detonating. The resulting explosion could cause the formation of a camouflet (cavern) and shift the ground to undermine a target’s foundation.

Unlike Tallboy, Grand Slam was originally designed to penetrate concrete roofs. Consequently, it was more effective against hardened targets than any existing bomb. The first Grand Slam was tested at the Ashley Walk Range in the New Forest, on 13 March 1945. By the end of the war, 42 Grand Slams had been dropped on active service.

Professional earwax removal

At Earworx we work with Australian’s every day to relieve them of ear wax build up and the associated discomfort, hearing loss and pain this can cause. We take great pride in our exceptional service and our caring and compassionate approach to ear health.

Ear wax removal is a delicate process and special training is required to perform this procedure. Earworx is a service that proudly employs only registered nurses who are qualified in the process of Micro Suction and Aural Hygiene

Many of us know the disorienting feeling of not being quite right when one of our senses is not working correctly. Whether it’s a sinus infection or head cold impacting your sense of smell or getting shampoo in your eyes in the shower! It can severely impact your ability to enjoy life.

The same goes for any loss of hearing. As an example, more than one third of the elderly people in our community suffer from excessive ear wax and this can have a significant impact on their day to day life, and their ability to hear and communicate effectively. Through our work with patients across Australia, we know how uncomfortable and inconvenient hearing loss from a build-up of ear wax can be. We specialise in professional ear wax removal and use dry, safe and effective micro suction technology to gently and easily remove wax. This is the same technique that is preferred by Ear Nose and Throat specialists.

Some people are more likely to experience a build-up of ear wax than others. These include people with narrow, hairy or curvy ear canals, who wear hearing aids, who use cotton buds or other objects such as ear plugs or ear bud headphones, who work in dusty or dirty environments or people with a hereditary disposition to wax impaction.

A build-up of ear wax can feel like blockage or fullness in your ears and can also lead to hearing loss or tinnitus. If you or an older member of your family are experiencing any of these symptoms, our

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The hearing-impaired community in Australia deserve to be treated with respect, care and dignity. These Australians work hard, care for families, and as such it is important that they experience the best quality of life that is available to them.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused disruption to Earworx services however we are now open with strict mitigation strategies in place to reduce the risk of transmission to both staff and clients. If you would like to know more about these please visit us at www. earworx.com.au.

Let us help Australians to be able to hear, communicate, and as such fully participate in our community activities – make a booking at Earworx today.

When life will never be the same

Duncan Schieb

It was a fairly ordinary New York day. I remember it being reasonably mild for February, but the kids were up at the crack, and I was preparing for what was to be a typical day. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had declared the day before that COVID-19 was heading towards a pandemic status, but we were still somewhat oblivious to what that would eventually mean. I’d picked up the children from school and daycare and we went about our everyday routines of bath, dinner, reading and bed.

Lachlan had a bit of a runny nose and was a little sluggish with a slight temperature. But otherwise, he was his usual happy self; playing in the bath, eating his dinner without fuss and being the delicious little boy he was.

I rang the paediatrician, and they said to ensure he has some fluids and give him some kids' Nurofen to bring down the temperature. Duly his temp came down, and he and his twin brother went to sleep at their usual time.

It was around 2:30am when I heard one of the boys crying. I went into their room and Oscar had a soiled nappy so

I changed him and put him back down. I then looked into Lachlan's crib and touched him. He was lifeless. My blood ran cold. I grabbed him from his crib and took him into the lounge. I called 911 and performed CPR until the paramedics arrived to take him to the hospital. They worked on Lachlan for over an hour, but he died sometime during the night and there was nothing anyone could do.

Lachlan's death was sudden and devastating for our family. Days after his funeral, New York City was put into a shutdown. It was an extremely challenging time, dealing with your own grief as well as the grief of four young children.

Everything was turned upside down. At times like these you have to make decisions that are not just in your interests, but the interests of your children. I stopped drinking and ensured I was present for them every day as we battled with the grief of Lachlan's passing, a devastating lockdown, and children home schooled that saw everyone stuck at home for months.

Duncan with his twins Lachlan and Oscar.

Happy days spent in the pool with Charlie, Matilda, Molly, Lachlan and Oscar.

I made the decision to relocate back to Australia for us to commence a new life closer to family and, at that time, in a country with few COVID-19 infections and a more normal life in Sydney. We were desperate for a new normal and to regain some happiness in our lives.

I grappled with how to help my children manage their grief and set a path of healing for them. I’ve raised money for charities all over the world and always enjoy being able to make an impact on the lives of others. I talk about philanthropy a lot with my children and how they can make a difference in the lives of others.

Working in real estate sales, one of my value propositions for sellers is donating a portion of my commissions to charity. I call it impact sales — we all get to benefit from making the world a better place.

At Dubbo Base Hospital, we saw the crib we donated through the Humpty Dumpty Foundation. It was the most significant step forward in managing that grief. This is a process that will continue to evolve but always leave a lasting legacy in Lachlan's name.

Charlie, Matilda, Molly and Oscar were able to ask questions, learn how it worked and hear first-hand stories of how it's already helped save babies' lives. They were able to tell their stories about their baby brother to the nurses and medical professionals. It was amazing to sit, watch and listen to them. The children deeply understand how they can make a change and help others in Lachlan's name which helps them cope with their grief.

At the time of writing this, it's been 964 days since Lachlan's passing. The ripple effect has been significant. We have experienced the damage of addiction, family breakdown, and much more. You can never prepare for the loss of a child, and when you have four young children, you learn that the evolution and management of that grief is ongoing. It is an exhausting rollercoaster ride that seems to have no end.

As a father, I want to shape my children to be responsible, respectful and resilient as we navigate life. I love helping charities raise money and make a difference, but this was extra special as it meant helping my kids first. It was the best therapy for all of us. They are my world.

Whatever difference you can make in the lives of others, no matter how small, please do it.

Since Lachlan’s death I’ve chosen the Humpty Dumpty Foundation due to the huge impact of procuring lifesaving equipment for hospitals across Australia. If our family can play a small role in saving a life, then we have made a difference and a family doesn't have to experience the same grief of losing a child.

The Schieb family visiting Dubbo Base Hospital to see the difference their donation has made.

The House of Windsor at War Again...

The recent passing of Queen Elizabeth II, has caused widespread speculation around the world, regarding what the future holds for the British Monarchy. Queen Elizabeth II was Britain’s longest serving monarch, who successfully kept her country and the Commonwealth together for an incredible 70 years.

However, the relentless scepticism dominating the headlines regarding Britain’s future has reached epidemic proportions, with many questioning the suitability of King Charles and Queen Camilla.

Unfortunately, recent polls in Britain are indicating many British citizens prefer William and Catherine as head of the Monarchy, with a 64% and 62% rating. However, Charles and Camilla are struggling with Charles receiving only 54% and Camilla a dismal 39% rating. King Charles is currently dealing with the fractured relationship between Prince William and Prince Harry and the Prince Andrew debacle. Only time will tell if the monarchy will survive this latest drama.

However, historic records indicate the Monarchy is a robust institution that has survived numerous misfortunes for over a thousand years, despite challengers created by wars, scandals and sibling rivalry……….

Unfortunately, sibling rivalry in the British Monarchy has reoccurred in almost every generation with brothers and sisters fighting for power, their public image, money and the throne.

Fast forward to 2023. The parallels between the modern royals Prince William and Prince Harry and their ancestors King Edward VIII and his brother George VI are astonishing.

In 1936 the world became aware of the conflict surrounding two major players in the British Royal Family. King Edward VIII was choosing passion over protocol and abandoning the throne to marry twice divorced American socialite Wallace Simpson.

While his younger brother George VI was reluctantly left to rule the kingdom. According to Royal sources the abdication undermined the Royal Institution and caused an enormous rift between King Edward VIII and his younger brother George VI.

Unfortunately, George who had spent his entire life living in the shadow of his older brother, was unprepared for the demands of ruling the country. Resulting in catastrophic conflict between the brothers and the Royal Family, a division the brothers were never able to resolve. Subsequently, King George died a premature death in 1952 aged fifty- seven. His grieving widow, Queen Elizabeth (The Queen Mother) insisting that her husband’s life had been cut short through stress caused by stepping into his older brother’s shoes. A debacle, she claimed was singlehandedly instigated and executed by Wallis Simpson. The woman she referred to as ‘’that woman’’ was blamed for King George’s untimely death….

STORY COURTESY OF CATHERINE COLUSSO

We are giving one of our lucky readers the To celebrate the historic coronation of King Charles III, we are once again giving one of our lucky readers the opportunity to win a copy of

Prince Harry’s controversial memoir “SPARE.’’

WIN

To be in the draw, email your entry to Bowlsplus1@bigpond.com

Winner will be advised by email

Prince Harry’s highly anticipated memoir ‘’SPARE’ offers an unprecedented insight into life as a royal.

However, his intimate revelations have sent shockwaves across the globe, with many readers gobsmacked by the outpouring of personal information which has been offered to the world, creating disharmony between Prince Harry, the Royal Family and his brother Prince William.

final appearance at the Commonwealth Day Service. Since leaving the Royal Family, the couple no longer receive money from The Monarchy, however they have retained their titles as Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

In March 2021, Harry and Meghan took part in a televised tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey where they candidly talked about what happened during their time as working royals. During the interview they accused the Monarchy of racism, neglect and bullying pertaining to Meghan’s request for help regarding the state of her mental health. Understandably, the Royal family was left devastated by the bombshell allegations.

In September, 2022 Meghan agreed to participate in another interview, this time with ‘’The Cut Magazine.’’ During this interview she continued to criticise and publicize The Royal family’s private matters in public.

In the memoir, Harry reflects on his mother’s death, his complicated relationships with many members of the royal family and household and his relentless battles with the press.

Unfortunately, the feud between Prince Harry and the Royal Family seems to be spiralling rapidly out of control. According to Royal sources, the drama between the Royal brothers William and Harry started to unravel in 2018, when Harry accused William of not doing enough to welcome and include his new wife Meghan into the Royal Family. Unfortunately, the world and the Royal Family were left shocked and distraught in January 2020, when Harry and Meghan announced their plans to exit there position as senior Royals, and relocate to California to pursue financial independence. This bold move, prompted a barrage of savage criticism by the British media and added fuel to the already toxic feud between William and Harry.

According to a Royal source, William and his wife Catherine are still harbouring feelings of anger towards Harry and Meghan and have not been able to come to terms with the way the couple carried out their departure from Royal life. In March 2020 tension was on full display between the foursome when Harry and Meghan made their

Since leaving the Royal Family in 2020, Harry and Meghan have made millions through lucrative business and media deals. They signed a $100 million deal with Netflix to produce a series of documentaries, feature films and children’s programmes. The couple has also signed a multi-year deal worth an estimated $25 million with Spotify to create content for the platform through their production company, Archewell. There first podcast with Spotify was Meghan’s ‘’Archetypes’’ which ranked number one on the music streaming platform following its release.

Harry’s tell-all memoir ‘’SPARE’’ sold over 3.2 million copies worldwide across print, audio and digital formats in the first week it was published.

The best-selling memoir is rumoured to be part of a four-book deal with literary Giants Penquin Random House worth $40 million. Despite the family dramas engulfing the Monarchy at the moment, Harry and Meghan are insisting they are trying to implement a reconciliation with the Royal Family, however they are also demanding a formal apology for the ‘’unconscious bias’’ they claim was inflicted on Meghan during her time as a senior member of The Royal Family.

STORY COURTESY OF CATHERINE COLUSSO

In 1998, multi-award winning Canadian actor Michael J Fox disclosed to the world his 1991 diagnosis of Parkinson disease, he was 29 years old.

PARKINSON’S DISEASE, a chronic progressive and degenerative disorder of the central nervous system, affects a person’s control of their body movements. Unfortunately, Michael first started displaying symptoms of early-onset Parkinson’s disease in 1991. His initial symptoms consisted of a ‘’twitching of his little finger, coupled with a sore shoulder.’’ However, was told that within a few years he would no longer be able to work.

The neurological condition predominately affects the dopamine-producing neurons in a specific area of the brain. (Dopamine constitutes about 80% of the catecholamine (neurotransmitter) content in the brain. Low levels of dopamine can make you feel tired, moody and unmotivated) Unfortunately the disorder also affects movement, and severe muscle stiffness, loss of balance and posture problems, tremors, poor reflexes and declining motor skills. Symptoms usually begin gradually and worsen over time. As the disease progresses, patients may have difficulty walking and talking. Nerve cell damage in the brain causes dopamine levels to drop, which lead to amplified symptoms, caused by motor skill dysfunction.

In late 1998, Michael underwent a ‘’Thalamotomy’’ which relieved some of his tremors. (Thalamotomy surgery is conducted by making a small lesion in the Thalamus. (The Thalamus is a paired grey matter structure located near the centre of the brain) Thalamotomy surgery, can be an effective treatment for some people.

MICHAEL J. FOX ADVOCATE FOR FINDING A CURE FOR PARKINSON’S DISEASE

Fox officially retired from acting in 2021 due to his declining health. He has subsequently become an advocate for finding a cure for Parkinson’s disease.

In the year 2000 Michael founded The Michael J Fox Foundation to help fund research and raise awareness for Parkinson’s disease. The Michael J Fox Foundation has helped raise over $1 billion for Parkinson’s research. Sadly, there is no cure for Parkinson’s Disease, however modern medicine consisting of cognition-enhancing and increasing the dopamine level mean that patients can manage their symptoms and reduce the occurrence and severity of progress, however patients in the advanced stages of the disease can deteriorate suddenly.

Michael J Fox rose to prominence portraying Alex Keaton on the American sitcom ‘’Family Ties.’’ The sitcom ran for seven seasons, from 1982 to 1989.

He then went on to star as Marty McFly in the American science fiction film ‘’Back to the Future’’ trilogy (1985-1990). The trilogy resulted in groundbreaking box office revenue of $388 million worldwide. Over his career Michael has won five Emmy Awards, four Golden Globe Awards, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, and a Grammy Award. He was also appointed an ‘’Officer of the Order of Canada in 2010 and was inducted to ‘’Canada’s Walk of Fame’’ in the year 2000. He was subsequently inducted to the ‘’Hollywood Walk of Fame’’ in recognition of his contributions to the motion picture industry in 2002. In 2022 Michael received The Humanitarian Award for his advocacy work and contribution to the Arts and Sciences.

STORY COURTESY OF CATHERINE COLUSSO

In 2011, Shake It Up Australia established a collaboration with The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, to fund Australian research to slow,

stop and cure the disease.

Every day in Australia, 38 people are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. That’s one person every 40 minutes, adding to the 150,000 Australians already living with the condition. Globally, Parkinson’s is the fastest growing neurological disease, and there’s still no cure.

Shake It Up Australia Foundation for Parkinson’s Research knows the need for a cure is increasingly urgent. Founded by entrepreneur Clyde Campbell in 2011, after his own diagnosis at just 44 years old, the foundation is focused on funding game-changing Australian research targeted at better treatments and ultimately, a cure for Parkinson’s.

When Clyde was diagnosed in 2009, he decided he didn’t want to sit back and wait for the rest of the world to find a cure – he wanted to join in the action. Discovering the work of The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (MJFF) opened his eyes to the fundamental importance of research as the key to helping people

living with the disease now and into the future.

To date, Shake It Up Australia has co-funded with MJFF 71 ground-breaking research projects at 22 Australian research institutes, to the value of $27.7 million.

Recent projects have included a study by Professor Carolyn Sue AM from Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), to test whether the Nix cell protein can help researchers to slow and stop the progression of Parkinson’s by protecting cells from dying.

Shake It Up’s vision of a world without Parkinson’s is only achievable with the support of the Australian community. Find out more at www.shakeitup.org.au

World War I: Australia Fired the First Shots

The first shots of World War I were fired in Melbourne, Australia, on August 5, 1914.

They were fired by a coastal artillery battery at Port Phillip Heads when the German merchant vessel SS Pfalz attempted to slip out of port before the declaration of war was made known. The Government of Great Britain declared war on Germany on August 4, 1914, following Germany’s declaration of war on Russia, France and Belgium, but the news was not received in Australia until the following day.

The battery fired warning shots across the German ship’s bow when the ship ignored signals to stop. After an altercation between the ship’s captain and her Australian pilot, she was taken back to Hobson’s Bay under armed guard.

SS Pfalz was renamed Boorara and fitted out as a transport, twice surviving German torpedo attacks during the course of the war. She later assisted in the repatriation of Australian troops in 1919. At the start of the war, the Royal Australian Navy was a small but formidable force, consisting of 3,800 personnel, 16 ships including the battlecruiser Australia, the light cruisers Sydney and Melbourne, three destroyers and two submarines. The light cruiser Brisbane and three destroyers were under construction, and a small fleet of auxiliary ships was being maintained.

The Royal Australian Navy served under the British Admiralty in diverse areas of the world, including German New Guinea,

the Cocos Islands, East Africa and the Dardanelles. The Royal Australian Navy made a significant contribution early in the war when Sydney destroyed the German raider SMS Emden near the Cocos Islands in November 1914.

For Australia, the First World War remains the costliest conflict in terms of deaths and casualties. From a population of fewer than five million, 416,809 men enlisted, of whom more than 60,000 were killed and 156,000 wounded, gassed, or taken prisoner. Globally, more than 70 million military personnel, including 60 million Europeans, were mobilized. Over nine million combatants and seven million civilians died as a result of the war.

Images courtesy of the Royal Australian Navy.

The Guardian newspaper’s headline on 4 August 1914.

King George V (front left) and a group of officials inspect a British munitions factory in 1917. Source: Internet, courtesy Les Taylor.

NECK AND BACK PAIN

Neck and back pain can range from mild, annoying aches to severe, disabling pain

While most spine pain occurs as a part of the normal degenerative ageing process-it can also be a warning sign of cancer, infection, autoimmune disease, or a structural problem causing pressure on the spinal cord/ nerves

WHY DOES THIS OCCUR?

Our spines are comprised of a number of joints around the spinal cord and nerves. As we age, changes occur as the joints wear out resulting in inflammatory processes such as osteoarthritis. The joints and tissues can also become overgrown and compress a neural structure, which is called spinal stenosis. Failure of the joints to hold the bones in position can result in slippage and deformity. These are common characteristics of conditions such as spondylolisthesis, kyphosis, or scoliosis.

WHAT SYMPTOMS CAN THESE DEGENERATIVE CHANGES CAUSE?

• Dull, burning, or sharp pain-which can be confined to a single spot or cover a large area.

• Arm/leg numbness or tingling

• Sharp, shooting pain that radiates from your neck and your arm.

• Sharp shooting pain that radiates from your lower back to your buttocks, and down your leg (sciatica)

• Stiffness in your neck or back

• Difficulties with walking and balance

• Difficulties with coordination

• Loss of bladder and bowel control, with weakness in both legs are important symptoms that require immediate medical attention.

HOW IS A DIAGNOSIS MADE?

You should see your general practitioner for a medical and physical exam. They may obtain a CT scan and /or an MRI scan to assess your spine. CT/MRI produces pictures of bones, joints, ligament, the spinal cord and spinal nerves. Sometimes other tests are needed such as bone scans and specialised x-rays.

HOW ARE BACK AND NECK PAIN TREATED?

If you experience back or neck pain it may simply improve with some rest. Over the counter medicines such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, may also help alleviate discomfort. Activity should be modified to avoid movement that exacerbates pain. Physiotherapy, acupuncture, and massage therapy are beneficial.

Low-impact exercise programs may improve range of motion, increase muscle strength, and improve flexibility and mobility, increase endurance, and improve pain. Weight loss and improving one’s core strength are also useful.

WHEN CAN A SURGEON HELP?

A surgeon can advise on further treatment if the above suggestions haven’t improved the pain and your quality of life.

Your surgeon can assess your imaging and recommend cortisone steroid injections that can alleviate some forms of neck, back, arm or leg pain.

An appropriate surgical operation can also significantly improve pain, mobility and quality of life.

WHAT DOES AN OPERATION INVOLVE?

Because symptoms, imaging findings and causative factors can vary significantly, a surgical procedure must be tailored for you. A traditional spine surgery procedure involves an incision along the backbone. The surgeon moves muscle and soft tissue aside to gain access to the bones of the spine and the spinal cord.

Minimally invasive techniques involve a smaller incision and special microsurgical instruments, through which the surgeon operates on the spine. Minimally invasive techniques may be able to shorten recovery time and reduce the risk of complications.

These approaches allow the surgeon to trim

away overgrown bone, ligament and joint tissue to decompress the spinal cord and spinal nerve. Some operations (for example those that help control the conditions spinal stenosis or sciatica) employ a decompression technique and at times may also require a fusion. The latter involves a surgeon placing titanium screws and rods to stabilise the spine and cause adjacent vertebrae to fuse.

There are minimally invasive ways to perform this type of surgery, and can even encompass advanced technology such as GPS-like tracking systems and robotics. If performed for the right indications, surgery can be effective in 80-90% of patients.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER SURGERY

Most patients are mobilised either on the same or following day of surgery, as early movement has been shown to be be beneficial.

You may be reviewed by a physiotherapist to provide advice on stretches, exercises and activities. Sometimes health professionals will design a rehabilitation program to meet your needs. The type of program will depend on the procedure you underwent and your level of mobility.

The goal of back and neck rehabilitation is to help you return to your highest level of fitness and independence and improve your overall quality of life.

Courtesy Dr Raj Reddy, MBBS, MS, FRACS

Dr Raj Reddy is a neurosurgeon with special interests in complex & minimally invasive spine surgery, paediatric neurosurgery, and brain tumour surgery.

Raj manages all neurosurgical conditions, both cranial and spinal. He has a special interest in spine surgery, with foci on minimally invasive techniques as well as complex reconstructive surgery. The focus of his cranial surgery is in the management of intracranial tumours, trauma , and craniofacial operations; both adults and paediatric patients

Suite 3, Level 7

Prince of Wales Private Hospital

Barker Street, Randwick NSW 2031

P (02) 9650 4132

E enquiries@brainspine.com.au

W. www.brainspine.com.au

Dr Peter Wilson is a specialist neurosurgeon with a focus on endoscopic skull base surgery, complex spinal surgery and cranial / spinal tumour surgery.

Peter is committed to maintaining the highest level of clinical and operative care of his patients, and is constantly striving to improve his practice by perpetually evolving in pace with the latest in medical advancements. His clinical interests include:

• Pituitary disease

• Trigeminal neuralgia / hemifacial spasm

• Spinal sagittal balance

• Benign and malignant brain tumours

Suite 3, Level 7

Prince of Wales Private Hospital

Barker Street, Randwick NSW 2031

P (02) 9650 4132

E enquiries@brainspine.com.au

W. www.brainspine.com.au

Dr Raj Reddy, MBBS, MS, FRACS

Dr Peter Wilson BSc MB BS (Hons) MS MSurg FRACS (Neuro)

DR PETER WILSON

BSc MB BS (Hons) MS MSurg FRACS

BOWLING & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE recently had the privilege of chatting with neurosurgeon Doctor Peter Wilson from BRAINSPINE, about his extraordinary career, his family and private life away from the surgery and the legacy he wants to leave behind.

BRAINSPINE’S specialist neurosurgeon DR. PETER

WILSON’s focus is on endoscopic skull base surgery, brain tumour surgery, and complex spinal surgery. His current appointments are at Prince of Wales Public and Private Hospitals, and St Vincent’s Private Hospital in Sydney. Peter graduated from the University of Sydney in 2005 and has worked in multiple neurosurgical units as a registrar, training with over 30 neurosurgeons before completing his formal training in 2015. During his training, he completed a Masters of Surgery by research at the University of New South Wales and a Master of Surgery at Macquarie University. After concluding his neurosurgical training, Peter worked as a locum consultant neurosurgeon at the Prince of Wales Public Hospital prior to embarking on post-fellowship training. He then subsequently completed a complex spinal fellowship in Adelaide focusing on trauma, correction of spinal deformity and minimally invasive spinal surgery. He also travelled to Birmingham in the UK for further experience in skull base surgery and radiosurgery, as well as New York in the USA specifically for endoscopic skull base surgery. He is committed to maintaining the highest level of clinical and operative care of his patients, and is constantly striving to improve his practice by perpetually evolving in pace with the latest in medical advancements.

Q & A WITH DR. PETER WILSON

B&L : Congratulations Peter on your extraordinary career. What position do you currently occupy at The Prince of Wales Hospital?

PETER : I am currently a consultant neurosurgeon.

B&L : Why did you become a neurosurgeon, and are other family members in the medical profession?

PETER : Yes both my parents are doctors, and I became a neurosurgeon because I have always been fascinated by the way our bodies work, especially the nervous system. I also find it extremely rewarding helping vulnerable people overcome complex situations, associated with brain and spinal surgery.

B&L : How long have you been associated with BrainSpine?

PETER : I joined BrainSpine in 2016, after I returned from the the United States, where I was fortunate to learn from Dr. Theodore Schwartz, who is a world leader in endoscopic skull

base surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York.

B&L : What are the benefits of belonging to the BrainSpine team?

PETER : There are many benefits associated with belonging to the BrainSpine Team, the main one being, all the neurosurgeons involved are dedicated to maintaining the highest level of clinical and operative care for their patients. Subsequently we all get on well and are supportive of each other.

It is a very comfortable environment.

B&L : What was your second option, if you were not successful in this field?

PETER : I would have become a scientist.

B&L : Are you married and how does your wife/partner deal with your work commitments and long hours?

PETER : Yes I am married and have two children, my wife is supportive and understands my work commitments.

B&L : What is your advice for a healthy mind and body?

PETER : A healthy diet with lots of vegetables, and consistency when exercising.

B&L : How do you relax when you are at home?

PETER : Home is very intense because I have a 6 year old and a 2 year old. I relax by being at work and focusing intensely on one task at a time.

B&L : How do you feel about COVID, and do you think the Government has dealt with COVID correctly, is there anything you would have done differently?

PETER : Yes I would have done a few things differently, however compared to other countries, I think Australia is doing very well.

B&L : What are your aspirations for the future and what legacy do you want to leave behind?

PETER : Maintain my focus to maximise the positive outcomes for my patients, and continue to teach the next generation of budding neurosurgeons.

E X P E R I E N C I N G J O I N T P A I N ?

OUR GOAL IS TO HELP YOU AVOID OR DELAY SURGERY.

Our Mission

At Surecell, we focus on the regenerative powers in our bodies

We use the power of platelets to encourage the body s natural healing process without resorting to medication or intrusive operating procedures

We adopt a holistic approach and seek to understand the way our body repairs itself and how we can best assist in this process

Leaders in Regenerative Medicine Surecell specialises in the clinical application of autologous PRP and cell therapies

The Surecell group treats up to 1,000 patients per month, trains medical professionals from across the globe and creates educational material accessible to both patients and health workers

PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP)

What is PRP?

Our blood is made up of 93% red blood cells 6% white blood cells 1% platelets and plasma Platelets are best known for their function of blood-clotting to stop bleeding Platelets, however, are much more significant than this, as human platelets are also a critical component in injury healing

How does PRP work?

The growth factors and platelets in the plasma promote cells to multiply and form new tissue accelerating and enhancing the healing process

PRP contains a much higher concentration of platelets than normal blood This means that higher concentrations of growth factors are being released into the injured area

When compared to cortisone injections PRP injections hold better results and last much longer While the effects of cortisone are rapid, they are often followed by a decline in condition PRP shows slower but greater long-term improvement and less injury recurrence

What does the process involve?

After assessing you a nurse will take your blood (like a standard blood test) which will be spun in a centrifuge to isolate the plasma component

PRP is activated under a light Then, the PRP is injected directly into the site of injury The process will take around 45 minutes to an hour

Support Available

We have a friendly team of doctors and exercise physiologists who can provide a treatment plan tailored to you and your lifestyle

Our locations

Malvern PRP clinic

1291 Malvern Road

Malvern VIC 3144

Dingely PRP Clinic

269 Centre Dandenong Rd

Dingley Village VIC 3172

Contact details

P: 03 9822 9996

E: info@surecell com

W: www surecell com

Local anaesthetic is injected 15-20 minutes before or at the same time with PRP injection depending on the injury

DR PETER LEWIS

MBBS FAARM Dip Sports Med

Dr Lewis has been an Australian registered medical practitioner since 1983 He is the Medical Director of Surecell and the current chairman of the Australian Ringside Medical Association He is also the presiding doctor for most boxing and kickboxing fights in Victoria

Dr Lewis is an expert in the field of sports and regenerative medicine PRP can be used for sport injuries such as tendon tears, as well as degenerative joint conditions such as osteoarthritis He was one of the first clinicians in Australia to offer PRP treatment and is now considered the most experienced

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MAKE A BRIGHTER FUTURE YOUR LEGACY

For 60 years Amnesty International has campaigned for a world where human rights are enjoyed by all. We believe everyone is entitled to live in a world where their human rights are recognised, realised, and protected. At the very core of Amnesty International is the belief that the actions of each individual can make a difference. What better way to demonstrate this than by making a gift in your Will and helping to transform the future for the better?

Organising your Will is a way to ensure that everything you have stood for in your life, everything you believed in and cared so deeply about, lives on for the next generation. A Will is more than a piece of paper, it is absolutely vital to preserving and protecting the fundamental rights that underpin everything else we hold dear. When you choose to make a gift in your Will to Amnesty International, our promise to you is to continue to uphold our shared values long into the future. We are proudly independent and non-partisan, which means gifts in Wills are critical to our work. We rely on the generosity of our supporters to help us search out the facts, expose what’s happening and rally people

together to pressure governments and those in power to respect human rights.

It’s more important than ever to hold on to what you believe in, and what you know is true. No matter the size of your gift, it’s a way of ensuring that the struggle to uphold our shared values of freedom, equality and justice will continue in the world we’re leaving our children and grandchildren.

Your gift to Amnesty International will help safeguard a future world where human rights are respected, defended and upheld. It’s a gift that will ensure that your values will live on for your loved ones and across generations to come. For more information call Naomi Vaughan on 08 8110 8103 or naomi.

vaughan@amnesty.org.au or visit www.amnesty.org.au to find out more

We’ve partnered with online Will writing platform Gathered Here, who host a free and easy step-by-step online Will writing service. Scan the code to write your Will for free today.

All images © Amnesty International

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Beatrix Village Avondrust Village

Our independent living units have been built to provide safe, affordable, attractive accommodation The village offers a safe and secure environment where residents can choose a private lifestyle, or enjoy the benefits of friendship, support and shared interests within a community of likeminded individuals

Beatrix Village is home to a range of one and two bedroom units which vary in size and layout Each unit has a spacious living and dining area, kitchen, built in robes, bathroom, separate toilet and laundry. Each comes with a car park, garden space and ample visitors’ parking within the village We even provide rental accommodation for short stays to visitors coming from interstate.

Avondrust Village units consist of two bedrooms with a spacious living and dining area, kitchen, built-in robes, bathroom, combined toilet, and laundry Each unit has its own garage and garden space along with ample visitors’ car park.

Should your needs change, MiCare provides community care services that will help you to stay longer and healthier in your unit. Community care services include personal care, laundry services, nursing assistance, case management, home maintenance, garden maintenance, aged care planning, and meal delivery In addition, Avondrust Village is located next to Avondrust Lodge, our aged-care home with constant care, to give you peace of mind, when the time arises.

Dear

Leaving a gift in your Will to a charity is no small action.

It’s one of the most powerful ways you can create meaningful change, long into the future. A gift in your Will says to the inspiring women and girls who are striving to build a better future, ‘I believe in you.’

No matter how big or small, a gift in your Will is a step towards supporting women to defeat poverty. Even as little as 1% of your estate, after your family and loved ones are looked after, can change lives and break the cycle of poverty. Because when one woman lifts herself out of poverty, she will bring four others with her –and that’s a powerful multiplier!

I hope you feel inspired reading Marlena’s and Libby’s stories which illustrate the amazing legacy you can be a part of through a gift in your Will.

Thank you,

Breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty

Many of us have experienced that proud moment when a child or loved one graduates from school or university.

It feels like they have the whole world at their feet; like anything is possible for them. It’s a feeling all parents want for their children.

But sadly many parents around the world won’t get the chance to experience it. They will watch in despair as their children are caught up in the cycle of generational poverty, just as they were.

The cycle goes like this: Parents struggle to make ends meet. Their children (usually girls) drop out of school to help out.

Then they grow up and have families of their own, but without an education, they can’t access employment opportunities. So they struggle to make ends meet. Their children drop out of school to help out.

And on and on it goes.

Breaking this cycle starts with an opportunity. By leaving a gift in your Will to CARE Australia, you can have a lifechanging impact long after you are gone.

Cath Hoban Director Fundraising & Marketing, CARE Australia

You can help those who are most vulnerable in our world by placing the power to make change in their hands.

© John Hewat/CARE

readers, Cath Hoban

A legacy of care

Libby has always believed that education and training is the key to breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty. As someone who benefitted from a free education in Australia, she understands how this can open the door to a vast range of opportunities. After providing for her family and loved ones in her Will, Libby wanted to include a legacy gift to CARE to help ensure women around the world are afforded the same opportunities she was.

“When I decided I wanted to leave some money to an aid organisation in my Will, it was easy to choose CARE. They do the kind of work I have always been passionate about: ensuring women are supported and have the same opportunities as men. Especially when it comes to education and training.

“There’s a stability and a respectability to CARE which goes all the way back to Malcolm Fraser. I remember even when I was young, he was involved in so many important, worthy causes and I respected the work that he did with CARE and what CARE still does today.

“So I’ll be a CARE supporter for the rest of my life. And leaving a gift in my Will helps ensure their incredible work can continue even after I’m gone.

“I have a one-year-old great niece, and in a few decades’ time she will have benefitted from her education, and I hope that my legacy helps someone of her generation get the benefit of an education in a place where they don’t have the advantages that we do.

“Someone once said that money makes you happiest when you give it away. And it’s so true. It doesn’t have to be a lot. It can be a small amount, but it makes you feel good. And it really does make a difference. The gift I’ve included in my Will to CARE means people will continue to benefit for generations to come. And that feels pretty good!”

The gift of a lifetime in her hands

Every day Marlena, from Papua New Guinea, would slash and prune the cocoa trees with her husband to try and provide for their five kids. But they were struggling to make a living. Having never been taught about weed control, farm management or how to manage their savings, all of their hard labour was bringing little return.

Marlena is a strong, resilient, hard worker — she just needed the right education and training to lead her family out of poverty once and for all. With a little training and support, Marlena and her husband’s cocoa farm has now grown significantly, and they have been selected as model farmers in their community to help share their new skills with other locals in their village.

“Before, we used to harvest half a 50kg bag, but now we harvest nearly two bags of dry beans. We have about 200 trees,” Marlena says. The training taught Marlena and her husband about the importance of sharing the responsibility of farming the cocoa. Sharing duties has provided them with opportunities to challenge norms that have kept women in poverty for generations. It really has helped them build a better life for their family.

Today, Marlena smiles, “No one in our family is vulnerable now because all of us work together as a family.”

And that’s what a gift to CARE in your Will is all about. It’s about building and strengthening healthy families, so they can thrive and lead their communities out of poverty.

Download our Gifts in Wills Guide

To have a confidential conversation about how leaving a gift in your Will can have a lasting impact on the lives of those living in poverty, please contact us on 1800 020 046 or via email at: giftsinwills@care.org.au

© John Hewat/CARE

© John Hewat/CARE

– Rt Hon. Malcolm Fraser AC CH, former Australian prime minister and founding Chairperson of CARE Australia

“Remembering CARE Australia in your Will is a gift which will endure beyond your lifetime.”

King Charles Finally Embraces His Destiny After a Lifetime of Service

STORY COURTESY OF TONY BONNER AM A COMMENT, THOUGHT, POSITION.... I AM A ROYALIST

The recent coronation of the ‘’Prince in Waiting’’ King Charles III, was to me a wonderful moment of connection and unity, in what is surely becoming a world of historical destructions. Statues, plaques, paintings, books etc………. of wondrous art forms, destroyed or cancelled in some form of cultural cleansing of our history.

WHAT !!!!

As a fine and honourable Australian would say. "Please Explain."

How these groups, these cults justify their childish and destructive actions is beyond me. Mount a case regarding your perceived anger, debate your perceived anger at why the art form that you reject should be vandalised. Then, if your case can be validated, civilised action may then be taken.

I digress from the topic at hand, the haters of our Royalty. A linage that has been with the world for over a thousand years, and in the main developed a system based on loyalty and unity. A collective of countries under this umbrella of fellowship.

A commonwealth of countries. Countries that want a peaceful resolution to problems, that have similar values, similar goals and dreams for their countrymen. For a thousand years, starting with several provinces, then growing to the current position of a commonwealth of countries, bonded, yet remaining proud of their own distinctive structures and personalities.

I believe a team, club, commonwealth countries should have a captain, leader. This role our Royal Family has adopted, then refined so that all the members of this national family, our commonwealth, could support and help each other. As with our own families, The Royal Family suggested a manner in which we could all respect the attributes and values of the various countries we are connected with. The problems that may arise from a member can be brought to the table and a resolution offered with everyone's support……..

Royalty has been that family head, being politically neutral, and understanding the political cultural, and religious beliefs of members of these countries.

The King or Queen at the time, with wisdom and immense knowledge would assist the commonwealth member, who may have difficulties.

God bless the recently departed Queen Elizabeth, for her untiring devotion to her family....us.

I'm not sure The Royal Family wanted to join the common market, to know some of their commonwealth members would need to find new markets for their produce and materials. However, like any democracy they left that decision to the voters, who voted to join the common European market. Again, along with many other commonwealth countries, that is being reversed, the trade between us is once again as it was, the trade is back to the family…..us.

As I commenced this comment, as a Royalist I am very happy that our head of state is an Australian, our Governor General is Australia's head politically, ably supported by the various state Governor Generals.

I like this independence and authority that these offices of leadership bring to us.

Do I want the problems and political involvement that a Presidential vote would entail, I think not. I am at a loss to name a country that has a Presidential structure that is without question.

So in closing, do I give our friend King Charles III the opportunity to be our King until his son continues this heritage, to continue to hold our Commonwealth family together, in the good and bad times, as his Mother did for all those years. I am certain her son will do the same, to ensure and safeguard a legacy that has existed for a thousand years.

GOD SAVE THE KING, as he embarks on this next journey. May he be blessed with strength and wisdom, bringing unity and prosperity to The United Kingdom, The Commonwealth and beyond.

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40 Royal Pde Kilmore

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Please call Ray on 0418 365 900

Simplified, personalised

Connecting you with the care you need so you can live the life you love.

1.

Who is Care Connect?

• Care Connect is an independent, not-for-profit approved Home Care Package provider that understands how important it is for you to live at home and remain independent.

• Since 1994, Care Connect has partnered with more than 85,000 people just like you.

• With access to one of Australia’s largest networks of care workers, Care Connect ensures a personalised and consistent quality of care.

2.

How can Care Connect help me?

No matter where you are on your aged care journey, Care Connect can:

• Provide clarity on your home care options;

• Support you to navigate the aged care system;

• Partner with you to achieve the best possible care outcome; and

• Make life easier.

What are the benefits of Care Connect?

• Care Connect makes life easier for you to remain independent at home by connecting you with the care you need. This may also include local groups that offer social activities.

• Our team genuinely listens and invests time getting to know you, your goals, and what is important to you.

• Your happiness, safety, and independence is our priority.

Harry's Cafe de Wheels

Harry's has served the likes of Frank Sinatra, Robert Mitchum, Marlene Dietrich, Kerry Packer and, more recently, Sir Richard Branson, Russell Crowe,

The story of 'Harry's Café de Wheels' goes back to the Depression years of the late 1930s. With the world on the brink of a devastating war, an enterprising Sydneysider by the name of Harry Edwards opened a caravan café near the front gates of the Woolloomooloo naval dockyard. Word spread quickly, with Harry's 'pie 'n' peas' and crumbed sausages soon becoming a popular part of the city's nightlife - keenly sought by sailors, soldiers, cabbies, starlets and coppers alike. Harry operated the caravan until 1938 when he enlisted in the AIF during WWII.

Upon his return in 1945, Harry realised that Sydney hadn't changed much and it was still almost impossible to get a good late-night feed, so he reopened and the caravan has been operating continuously ever since. The phrase 'Café de Wheels' came about as the city council of the day insisted that mobile food caravans move a minimum of 12 inches

a day. Harry dutifully obeyed, and thus the name was expanded to Harry's Café de Wheels. Simply known as 'Harry's' Harry operated the caravan for a further 30 years before selling the business to Alex Koronya in 1975.

In December 2004, Harry's was classified by the National Trust of Australia (NSW) and included on its Register. Per the National Trust of Australia, Harry's is a 'quintessential Sydney icon' and, in the Trust's opinion, falls within the 'Those places which are components of the natural or the cultural environment of Australia, that have aesthetic, historical, architectural, archaeological, scientific, or social significance or other special value for future generations, as well as for the present community.'

As the years have passed, Harry's has become a 'must' for visiting celebrities. Harry's has served the likes of Frank Sinatra, Robert Mitchum, Marelene Dietrich, Kerry Packer and, more recently, Sir Richard Branson, Russell Crowe, Kevin Costner, Brook Shields, Pat Rafter, Olivia Newton-John, Jerry Lewis, Billy Crystal, Pamela Anderson,

Sara O'Hare, Lachlan Murdoch, KerriAnne Kennerley, Adrian Greiner, Anthony Bourdain and Peter Blakely.

In 1974, chicken king Colonel Sanders stopped at Harry's and enjoyed the food so much that he ate three 'pies and peas' while leaning on his walking stick in front of the caravan.

Elton John has also been a visitor to Harry's over the years and held a press conference from inside Harry's during the 1970s. And then there's the album - in 1990, Peter Blakely released his debut album 'Harry's Café de Wheels' which went platinum. Harry's has become so popular with the celebrities that in 1991, Rupert Murdoch had pies shipped to Los Angeles for an Australian-themed Oscars party. But you definitely don't have to be a celebrity to enjoy Harry's, just hungry.

Since its initial opening in the 1930s, Harry's has withstood the test of time. Harry's lets you enjoy authentic Aussie tucker while taking a trip back through history.

Source Les Taylor

O u r n atu r al wo r l d ne e d s u s . Only together, through collaboration and action can we answer the call. For over 50 years and with projects in more than 40 countries the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) rescues individual animals, prevents animal cruelty and campaigns for the protection of wildlife and habitats.

Our work is only possible because of the generosity of our supporters, many of whom have chosen to leave a gift to IFAW in their Will. In fact, for every f fi ve animals IFAW has helped, o ne has been saved thanks to the generosity of gifts in Wills. And the impact of those gifts is never limited to just one individual animal.

Including IFAW in your Will is a powerful way to continue making an impact that helps people and animals thrive together. A gift in your Will extends your legacy as part of IFAW’s change-making boots on the ground around the world.

You can continue helping rescue and rehabilitate individual animals, like Sally the 2-year-old elephant calf who was entangled in a poacher’s snare when we rescued her and airlifted her to the IFAW-supported Wild

is Life-ZEN Elephant Nursery in Zimbabwe where she’s continuing her journey back to the wild.

You can be a lasting part of our fight against illegal wildlife trafficking, such as training and equipping wildlife rangers to intercept traffickers, investigate crime scenes and ensure proper care for living animals seized as part of prevention operations.

You can continue to play a vital role in our long-term landscape conservation efforts, like Room to Roam, our innovative approach to conservation in Africa that aims to ensure viable, stable, resilient elephant populations long into the future.

You’ll be part of saving the few remaining North Atlantic right whales, rehabilitating koalas burned by bushfires in Australia, rescuing animals caught up in natural disasters, fighting for legislation that better protects animals and much, much more.

G Gi fts i n W i l l s ma ke al l t hi s p o s s i b l e For more information, please contact Naomi Hepperlin on 02 9288 4988 or nhepperlin@ifaw.org

Download your free Will information guide here:

together, we can build a better future for people, animals and the planet

your gift could help koalas, elephants and their habitats to survive and thrive far into the future

©IFAW

©IFAW

PAUL HARRAGON AMBASSADOR FOR THE MARK HUGHES FOUNDATION

position and can you tell us what the future holds for the Newcastle Knights?

PAUL : No – I have no official position these days, but the Wests Group have secured the clubs future and are now looking to use our biggest asset, which is our local juniors – we have everything we need for success, we just need to believe it.

B&L: In 2016 you were a contestant on ‘’I’m a Celebrity… ’’Get Me Out of Here’’ in which you were placed second? Did you enjoy being on the show & what was the most horrendous challenge you had to endure?

PAUL : It was actually a real thrill to be a part of it.

I was starving for the first few weeks and lost 14kgs but once I settled in, it got easier. The rat milk shake with tail hanging out of it was the worst challenge.

B&L : You are now involved with The Mark Hughes Foundation, when did you become involved in the foundation?

PAUL : I have been involved from the early days and watched Mark and Kirralee (Mark’s wife) rise and grow to every occasion along the way…

B&L : What is your role in the foundation?

PAUL : I am one of the ambassadors for the foundation.

PAUL HARRAGON OAM is an Australian Rugby League football Legend, former Australian International and New South Wales State of Origin representative. He also captained The Newcastle Knights to the 1997 NRL Premiership Title. Paul has since become a media personality and worked for local Newcastle Television station NBN, before joining Channel 9 as a valued member of The Footy Show panel. He is currently an ambassador for The Mark Hughes Foundation. Paul received an OAM at the 2000 Australia Day Awards and was inducted into the New South Wales Hall of Fame in 2002………………………………

Q & A WITH AUSTRALIAN RUGBY LEAGUE LEGEND PAUL HARRAGON.

B&L : Congratulations Paul on your impressive former career as an Australian Rugby League football Legend…. You have since become a media personality and presenter for local Newcastle Television station NBN and also a regular presenter on The Footy Show. Did you enjoy your time working for NBN and who on The Footy Show did you admire the most and why?

PAUL : Yes I really enjoyed it. I did admire the way Fatty never worried or was nervous before a show. It didn’t matter if it was a live show in front of 10,000 people or in the studio. Although the producers were always worried, wondering what havoc the fat man was going to create.

B&L : In 2013 you were appointed Chairman of the Newcastle Knights Advisory Board. Do you still hold that

B&L : We believe you have given Mark Hughes enormous support during his battle with brain cancer, does it make you happy knowing that the foundation is contributing to find a cure for brain cancer?

PAUL : The Mark Hughes Foundation is doing amazing things for people suffering brain cancer, with the support of the care nurses, research centre and communities orbiting around the foundation creating an overarching network of inspiration to keep them moving forward. Yes it makes me very happy.

B&L : Are you involved with the annual ‘’Beanie for Brain Cancer Campaign’’ and the NRL Beanie for Brain Cancer Round?

PAUL : Yes, I am involved and very proud to be there with all the other volunteers and support staff and stand beside Mark for such a large-scale event.

B&L : What is the ultimate goal you would like to achieve for the foundation?

PAUL : There will be some magic that comes from the Mark Hughes Foundation – some part to play in creating better outcomes and ultimately a cure for brain cancer.

B&L : What is next on the agenda for Paul Harragon?

PAUL : We are planning our next MHF adventure challenge to Everest Base Camp and Twin Peaks, Nepal, it’s our highest summit thus far. VERY EXCITED.

THE MIRACLE ON THE HUDSON RIVER

In January, 2009 Airbus A320 (Flight 1549) operated by US Airways, took off from LaGuardia Airport at approximately 3.25PM. LaGuardia Airport is situated in Queens, New York City. The plane’s destination was Charlotte and then Seattle in the United States. Charlotte being 543 miles from LaGuardia Airport, with the average flight time of 1 hour and 58 minutes. On board were 5 crew members, including Captain Chesley (Sully) Sullenberger, first officer Geoff Skiles and 150 passengers including an infant.

Two minutes into the flight, the plane was hit by a flock of Migratory Canada geese. Apparently, 4 of the geese were subsequently ingested into the plane’s engines shortly after take-off from LaGuardia Airport. The bird encounter severely damaged both engines, resulting in loss of all engine power.

Given their position in relation to the available airports and their low altitude, Captain Sully and his first officer Geoff Skiles decided there was no time to return to the airport. They both agreed the safest option was to try and glide the plane and make an emergency landing, by ditching the commercial airliner into the Hudson River off Midtown Manhattan. Immediately, after the plane hit the water, the crew began evacuating passengers through the four overwing window exits and into an inflatable slide and raft. The crew managed to remove

all passengers from the plane within 24 minutes of the crash landing. New York ferry crews reacted instantly by pulling 143 people from the freezing water. Fortunately, all 155 passengers and crew survived, making the mission the most successful marine rescue in aviation history.

The incident quickly became known as ‘’The Miracle on the Hudson,’’ with a National Transportation Safety Board Official describing the incident as ‘’the most successful ditching in aviation history.’’

However, The Safety Board also noted that the ditching of the plane into the Hudson River could have been avoided by returning to LaGuardia Airport. Although, The Safety Board did affirm the ditching as ‘’providing the highest probability of survival, considering the circumstances.’’

Captain Sully, an outstanding and courageous leader, who has been dedicated to the pursuit of safety his entire adult life, became an overnight hero. He and his crew will be remembered for their heroic efforts in saving the lives of 155 people.

Subsequently, Geoff Skiles became globally well known as the first officer of US Airways Flight 1549, who worked together with Captain Sully in saving the lives of all passengers and crew.

On the 22nd January, 2009 The Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators awarded the crew the rarely bestowed ‘’Master’s Medal’’ for outstanding aviation achievement.

The Coronation

HISTORY CAME TO LIFE IN A SPECTACULAR WAY ON THE 6TH MAY, 2023 WHEN KING CHARLES III AND HIS DARLING WIFE CAMILLA WERE OFFICIALLY CROWNED KING AND QUEEN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM...

Thousands of people descended on central London to bear witness to the 2-hour historic extravaganza, with millions more watching around the globe.

King Charles III and Camilla were crowned in a ceremony steeped in tradition, in a lavish coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey.

The King was anointed with holy oil and presented with the crown jewels, the Archbishop of Canterbury then officially crowned King Charles by placing the 360-year-old St. Edward’s Crown upon his head. Once the crown was in place, The Archbishop led the congregation into a ‘’God Save the King’’ chant, which resulted in a gun salute across the country.

Queen Camilla was then also anointed with holy oil and crowned with the ‘’Queen Mary Crown’’ in a simpler ceremony…………

THE CORONATION WAS THE CULMINATION OF A SEVEN-DECADE JOURNEY FOR THE KING FROM HEIR TO MONARCH……………..

After the ceremony the King and Queen travelled back to Buckingham Palace in a grand procession through the streets of London.

However, Charles actually acceded the throne on the 8th September 2022, upon the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth ll. He instantly became King of The United Kingdom and 54 independent countries which form the Commonwealth. Almost all of which were formerly under British Rule.

King Charles and Camilla travelled from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey in the Australian made Diamond Jubilee Coach, ahead of the coronation service.

Following the coronation, Charles and Camilla travelled back to Buckingham Palace in the splendid Gold State Coach which dates back to 1831.

Ironically the Gold State Coach was used in 1953 for King Charles’s mother Queen Elizabeth ll to travel back to Buckingham Palace following her coronation.

THE EARLY YEARS...

King Charles and Queen Camilla’s romance has been anything but conventional, despite their happy ending 35 years after they first met.

Charles and Camilla first met at a polo match at Royal Windsor Great Park in 1970. They began dating after discovering they both loved polo and the great outdoors. That same year, Charles was awarded a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Cambridge. He then served in the Royal Air Force and the Royal Navy from 1971 to 1976. Unfortunately, on his return, Charles discovered that Camilla was engaged to Army Cavalry Officer Andrew Parker Bowles, who subsequently became Camilla’s first husband.

1980...

Charles began dating Lady Diana Spencer, they subsequently married in July 1981 at St. Paul’s Cathedral, with an estimated 750 million people watching around the globe.

Charles and Diana went on to have two sons. Prince William and Prince Harry. However, by 1986 the marriage seemed to be on shaky ground and according to numerous reports, Charles rekindled his affair with Camilla that year. Charles and Diana separated in 1992, soon after the breakdown of their relationship became public knowledge, however the couple continued to carry out their royal duties.

According to Royal sources. The marriage suffered due to their incompatibility and extramarital affairs. The couple divorced in 1996. Unfortunately, Diana Princess of Wales died from injuries sustained in a fatal car accident in Paris in 1997, along with her rumoured boyfriend, Egyptian billionaire Dodi Fayed.

Charles and Camilla married in a civil ceremony at Windsor Guildhall in 2005.

THE DIAMOND JUBILEE STATE COACH which carried Charles and Camilla from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey ahead of the coronation, was designed and built by Australian Jim Frecklington. The coach is considered to be modern, when compared to The Gold State Coach. However, some of the material used, such as the timber on the door panels is bathed in history, and was sourced from HMS VICTORY. (HMS Victory was Lord Nelson’s flagship in his victory at the Battle of Trafalgar) in 1805. The Diamond Jubilee State Coach however, was originally commissioned to commemorate Queen Elizabeth’s 80th birthday in 2006. Unfortunately, completion was delayed by 8 years, therefore subsequent transportation of the carriage to Britain was not executed till 2014.

OUTSTANDING DESIGNER AND MASTER CRAFTMAN JIM FRECKLINGTON, MAKER OF THE DIAMOND JUBILEE STATE COACH

THE GOLD STATE COACH which transported King Charles and Queen Camilla back to Buckingham Palace following the coronation, was commissioned in 1760 by Francis Rawdon-Hastings for King George III’s coronation and wedding day. The coach was designed by Sir William Chambers and built in the London workshop of Samuel Butler.

The eight-horse-drawn coach is one of the oldest and grandest of the Royal Family’s many coaches, it is the third oldest surviving coach in The United Kingdom. The ornate coach is fully enclosed and has for decades been used to transport Monarchs during Royal events. However due to it’s age and value is reserved only for significant occasions.

EARLY FASCINATION WITH CARRIAGES

Jim’s fascination with carriages commenced at an early age, while tinkering with and assembling billycarts as a youngster. These early experiences fuelled his interest and fascination for repairing and ultimately making carriages on the family farm. After working in the Arctic for many years, Jim moved to the United Kingdom in 1972 and was employed at Windsor Castle.

THE QUEEN’S SILVER JUBILEE

I had the enormous privilege of catching-up with Royal coach maker Jim Frecklington in 2018, and was completely blownaway by his unrelenting passion for his craft.

Bowling&Lifestyle Magazine was featuring a story on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding at the time, and Jim was the obvious choice to hopefully divulge inside information on what to expect on this mammoth occasion. However, when quizzed about the impending wedding and the Royal Family. His response of ‘’WHAT

YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU GET’’

left me feeling like a ravenous piranha, somewhat underwhelmed and desperate for more information.

Unfortunately, I soon realised that Jim was far too diplomatic to volunteer intimate royal information and details. However, his extraordinary confidence and charisma was not at all surprising, considering he has spent most of his career rubbing shoulders with The Royal Family.

In 1991 Jim was awarded the medal of ‘’Member of the Royal Victorian Order,’’ an award which was a personal gift from the late Monarch (Queen Elizabeth II)

THE RISE & RISE OF JIM FREKLINGTON

Staunch monarchist and Royal Coach Maker Jim Freckington, started his extraordinary life on his family’s farm in Parkes, NSW in 1950.

Jim’s family emigrated from Britain to NSW in the 1850’s and became leaders and pioneers in farming, sheep grazing and the cattle industry, making them one of the most successful families in Australia.

In 1977 he was invited to manage The Queen’s Silver Jubilee Exhibition during a tour of Australia. He has since attended the opening of The Sydney Opera House with the queen in attendance, and was present for the wedding of the then Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer in 1981. Working in such close proximity to the Royal Family, subsequently spurred his fascination once more in carriages.

This resulted in Jim building a replica of The Edward Vll, 1902 Landau. He then went onto build Queen Elizabeth’s Australian State Coach, which was presented to Her Majesty on the occasion of the Australian Bicentennial in 1988.

Jim’s next mammoth project was the designing and building of The Diamond Jubilee State Coach, which was completed and transported to The Royal Household in 2014. Jim’s Diamond Jubilee State Coach was recently used in the recent coronation of King Charles III and his wife Camilla.

STORY COURTESY OF CATHERINE COLUSSO

For decades group travel has been one of the most popular forms of travel available for like minded friends. For more than 20 years, Groups Tasmania has been providing Clubs and groups from all over the world the opportunity to explore our wonderful State without the pressure of having to plan an itinerary or book everything themselves. Group touring is about being shown around by locals and really capturing the essence of the destination. It means seeing the famous attractions but also wandering off the tourist trail. So much more than just a coach tour, you’ll experience the culture, meet the locals and savour the wonderful food.

Our well-balanced tailor made itineraries are designed with the traveller in mind. We put great effort into getting the right balance between organised touring and free time, after all it is a holiday! We include all the essential sights that others consider “optional extras”, while providing plenty of time for you to explore & discover.

• COACH TOURS

The best way to see the spectacular island state of Tasmania is on board a well appointed coach, with different sizes available depending on the number in your group. Let your experienced and knowledgeable coach captains do the driving while you relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

• CAR CLUBS

Tasmanian roads are renowned for their appeal to car and motorcycle enthusiasts, with its natural topography allowing for long sweeping roads through undulating hills and magnificent scenery.

• EDUCATIONAL TOURS

Tasmania is a popular destination for educational tours with its history, scenery and perceived isolation from the rest of Australia playing a major role in drawing schools to Tasmania for a memorable life experience.

Opening in February 2000, Groups Tasmania was established as a Nationally Accredited Tourism Operator by David Luttrell with a vision to provide excellent service in the expanding market of coach touring. Tasmanian owned and operated, Groups Tasmania offers comprehensive knowledge and experience of holidaying in your Natural State. David and Brett are true Tasmanian’s with both having in excess of 25 years specifically selling Tasmania as a holiday destination and we would love you to benefit from our knowledge and to share our passion for Tasmania.

We specialise in itinerary planning for every kind of group from schools to car clubs through to senior community groups and everything in between! We can arrange your travel arrangements including flights, Spirit of Tasmania, accommodation, meals and attractions in Tasmania.

If your organisation is looking at Tasmania as a destination for its next conference we can also assist with day tours and pre or post conference tours. Basically if you have a group that is looking to travel to Tasmania then Groups Tasmania can be your one stop shop and most importantly help you put together a memorable trip.

12 Nichols Street, Kings Meadows Tasmania 7249

Phone: 0409 857892 (David)

Email: david@groupstasmania.com.au

Website: www.groupstasmania.com.au

THINGS TO DO IN Tasmania

Northern Tasmania

Tasmania’s “northern capital” of Launceston was established in 1806 by free settlers. It has fine Victorian buildings from the 1870s and 1880s and elegant contemporary architecture. The unique attraction of Cataract Gorge is a natural wonder only a 15-minute walk from the city centre, and not far from the J Boag and Son brewery. Cool climate wines and fine dining are the essence of the new Launceston experience, and the city is a perfect base from which to explore the surrounding region.

The tidal River Tamar flows north from Launceston to George Town and Bass Strait, past forested hills and pastures, lavender plantations, vineyards, strawberry farms and orchards. Excellent restaurants, superb boutique wineries and simple roadside stalls ensure every appetite is indulged and this idyllic setting will satisfy other interests too, from history enthusiasts to nature lovers. You can explore by road or cruise the long curve of the Tamar River.

Southern Tasmania

With the River Derwent at its heart and Mount Wellington rising above it, in Hobart the tranquility of a city from a bygone era coexists with the vibrancy of a pocket-sized modern metropolis. Hobart’s European beginnings are evident everywhere, from quaint settlers’ cottages to the lofty porches of colonial mansions. Once bustling with whalers and entrepreneurs, 19th-century sandstone warehouses now serve as dockside cafes, artist’s studios and restaurants, where you can enjoy excellent cuisine and fine wines.

Discover Tasmania’s history in the nearby Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, be enthralled and even challenged by world leading MONA just a few minutes from the city.

Hobart is a place of fishing boats, fish punts at the docks, an accessible harbour around historic Constitution Dock, coffee under the sun-umbrellas where the famous Salamanca Market is held every Saturday. Or restaurants serving some of the best food in Australia. And so much more …

Ask us about the East & West too. You will be surprised……

THE WORLD FARWELLS THE QUEEN OF ‘’ROCK N ROLL’’ Tina Turner

The entertainment industry all over the world are in mourning following the death of music powerhouse Tina Turner. The music legend passed away on the 24th May, 2023 at her home in Switzerland after a long battle with multiple life-threatening illnesses which included ‘intestinal cancer and eventual kidney failure.’’ Her husband and partner of four decades Erwin Bach was by her side when she passed. She was 83 years old.

Tina will be remembered as a musical genius, inspirational role model, powerful performer, trailblazer and feminist icon, who inspired a new generation of artists like Beyonce, Rihanna and Alicia Keys, who all followed in her footsteps. Oprah Winfrey, Mick Jagger, Angela Bassett, Diana Ross, Beyonce, Jimmy Barnes and King Charles III were among the plethora of icons who paid heartfelt tributes to the undisputed ‘’Queen of Rock N Roll.’’

King Charles III allowed the Welsh Guards to perform Tina’s song, ‘’SIMPLY THE BEST’’ during a recent ‘’Changing of the Guard’’ ceremony.

Tina is considered one of the greatest singers of all time. She has sold over 150 million records worldwide and won a total of 12 Grammy Awards. She is the only female artist in history to have won a Grammy in pop, rock and R&B fields.

Tina also received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018 and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1991.

Tina was born Anna Mae Bullock in Brownsville, Tennessee. She first rose to prominence in the 1960’s alongside her first husband Ike Turner. as the lead singer of the ‘’IKE & TINA TURNER REVUE.’’

Together they produced classics which included, PROUD MARY and RIVER DEEP, MOUNTAIN HIGH.

IKE TURNER (1931-2007) was an early pioneer of 1950’s Rock N Roll. He was also a bandleader, songwriter and record producer.

Unfortunately, Ike and Tina divorced in 1978. on the grounds of irreconcilable differences. However, in her 1986 autobiography, she alleged that Ike Turner had abused her

throughout their marriage. After separating from Ike, Tina embarked on a solo career. Her debut solo album, ‘’Private Dancer’’ which was released in 1984 won three Grammys and sold more than 20 million copies worldwide.

Tina will be remembered as one of the greatest singers of all time, who paved the way for so many women in the music industry. She was also noted for her stage ‘’swagger’’ gravelly vocals and unstoppable energy. Her music was charged with a combination of mystery and undeniable vitality, which kept her at the forefront of the music industry for five decades.

‘’MAY YOU NOW REST IN ETERNAL PEACE TINA’’

STORY COURTESY OF CATHERINE COLUSSO

AUSTRALIA FAREWELLS THE ICONIC Barry Humphries

The world grieves following the loss of Iconic Australian Comic Genius Barry Humphries, who has been described as the most significant theatrical figure of our time. Barry was a comedic master of stage and screen, his many talents also included author, satirist and drag artist. He will be fondly remembered as the world’s most successful solo theatrical performer of all-time.

However, he was best known for writing and portraying his stage and television characters Dame Edna Everage and Sir Les Patterson which delighted multiple generations across the world, including personal friend, His Majesty King Charles lll.

A spokesman for the King revealed that Charles expressed extreme sadness upon hearing of the death of the much-loved Australian Icon.

Barry Humphries was born in the Melbourne suburb of Kew, Victoria in 1934. He attended Melbourne Grammar School and later spent two years studying at the University of Melbourne, where he studied Law, Philosophy and Fine Arts. Unfortunately, Humphries did not graduate from university, however he was subsequently awarded an honorary doctorate almost 50 years later………………….

According to Humphries, his early childhood was happy and uneventful. However, he began rebelling against conventional suburban life in his teens. He became a compulsive reader, collector of rare books, a painter and serial theatre fanatic. He also became a follower of the deconstructive art movement ‘’Dada’’ where performances of visual satire soon became part of Australian folklore. During his time at University, Humphries performed songs and sketches and joined the Melbourne Theatre Company. It is believed he created, what became his best-known character Edna Everage at this point in his life. The stage sketch premiered at Melbourne University’s Union Theatre in 1955. Humphries moved to Sydney in 1957 and joined Sydney’s Philip Street Theatre. The theatre soon became Australia’s leading venue for satirical comedy. He then moved to London in 1959 and joined the

British comedy scene which included ‘’future mega stars’’ Dudley Moore, Peter Cook and Spike Milligan. Humphries later described working with Spike Milligan as ‘’one of the strangest and most exhilarating experiences of my career. In 1960, Humphries was cast in the original London stage production of ‘’Oliver.’’ He then appeared in numerous stage productions including the Piccadilly Theatre’s revival of ‘’Oliver’’ and a cameo in the film ‘’Bedazzled’’ starring Peter Cook and Dudley Moore.

Upon his return to Australia in the seventies, he debuted his creation of Edna Everage in the film ‘’The Naked Bunyip.’’ He then teamed up with producer Phillip Adams and film/ director Bruce Beresford and created a film version of the Barry McKenzie cartoons, starring singer Barry Crocker and featuring Humphries, who co-wrote the script. The film became the first Australian feature film to make over $1 million at the box office. This project propelled him into the showbiz spotlight, gaining worldwide popularity, which secured his place in Australian showbiz history. Humphries also gained considerable notoriety through his one man shows featuring his satirical monologues, and went on to achieve extraordinary global success. The longevity of fan favourites Dame Edna Everage and Sir Les Pattison became a satire of stardom that endured for more than sixty years.

John Barry Humphries AO CBE was made ‘’Officer of the Order of Australia’’ for services to the theatre in the 1982 Queen’s Birthday Honours. He was then made a ‘’Commander of the Order of the British Empire’’ in the 2007 Queen’s Birthday Honours for services to entertainment.

STORY COURTESY OF CATHERINE COLUSSO

Making you feel Right at Home

Right at Home is your local, quality, in-home aged care and disability support provider, providing care and support that allows our clients to remain safe and independent in their own homes.

Right at Home have 42 offices in Australia throughout New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria and now also in the A.C.T.

Right at Home office owners aim to provide their communities with the best in-home care services, when and where you need them. Right at Home’s mission is ‘to improve the quality of life for those we serve’TM. At Right at Home, our clients, their families, and our caregivers are at the centre of everything we do.

At Right at Home, you can expect exceptional, 24/7 customer service, 365 days a year. We offer free in-home consultations and care planning as well as free support navigating the government-funded Home Care Packages scheme (HCP). We are an Approved HCP Provider for levels 1 to 4 and can offer plan and self-managed support to NDIS participants, as well as care and support for private pay clients. We don’t charge package management fees for government funded clients, meaning you get more hours of care for your budget.

Right at Home understand that care decisions for you and your loved ones are important. We believe in the Right ApproachTM, so we carefully match our carers and support workers to our clients and participants. A personal introduction to your carer or support worker helps to ensure that you feel safe and comfortable prior to the start of your service. Our caregivers are highly trained, screened and insured prior to entering a client’s home. Because every client is different, we adapt our services to suit the client’s specific needs with a custom

care plan. We also offer free supervisory visits to ensure carers are following the Right at Home customised care plan and meeting your expectations.

Planning and organising the right home care services for your loved ones can be a daunting task, so why not let the Right at Home team of highly trained and experienced staff guide you during this time of inevitable change. Chat to our friendly owners to find out how we can support you and your family. Call us on 1300 363 802 to reach your local office or visit us at www.rightathome.com.au

Right at Home is the naming rights partner of the Australian Jackaroos and supports the inclusivity and community connection that the sport of bowls provides. Click here to see the story on Bowls Australia website

Right at Home are leaders in quality homecare and support, delivering services that allow our clients to remain safe and independent in their own homes. Your local Right at Home family is ready to look after yours when you can’t. We have offices throughout QLD, NSW, WA, SA, ACT and Victoria, catering for government funded and private pay clients.

Right at Home are leaders in quality homecare and support, delivering services that allow our clients to remain safe and independent in their own homes. Your local Right at Home family is ready to look after yours when you can't. We have offices throughout QLD, NSW, WA, SA and Victoria, catering for government funded and private pay clients.

- 24/7 On Call & 24/7 Care Service

- Supervised, Individual Care Plan

- Approved Home Care Packages Provider Levels 1-4

- No Home Care Package Management Fees

- Complex Nursi n g Care

- Disability & NDIS Support

- Flexib le, Reliable & Certified Carers

- Post Operative Care

- Hospital In The Home

- Personal & Companion Care

- Domestic, Shoppin g, Transport

INVICTUS CONNECTION LEADS VETERANS AND FAMILIES TO BOWLS

A group of people playing football

Defence force veterans and their families are learning to love the sport of bowls, and all the benefits that comes with it.

Invictus Australia and Bowls Australia have teamed up to run Family Veteran Days across the country, taking veterans and their families out onto greens at local clubs to learn the sport. Invictus Australia is a not-for-profit organisation promoting the physical, social and emotional benefits of sport, shining a light on the unique needs of younger veterans and the challenges they face as they transition from military to civilian life.

Several recent events have taken place across the country with great success, including at Rosewood and Toowoomba in Queensland and Darwin. South East Queensland Regional Bowls Manager Micheal Sorrensen has been

involved in helping coordinate these events, and said it is great to be involved with.

“This partnership is to provide support for the service people and their families of Australia in a safe and friendly environment,” he said.

“The connection between the sport of bowls and the forces goes back to the boom period of the sport, with many of our current clubs be formed by groups of returned servicemen.

“It is always great to see people out there with their family having fun, it’s what it is all about.”

Sorrensen has been working closely with Veteran Engagement Specialist South East Queensland Justine Lugg and Regional Manager, Veteran Engagement Northern NSW Jye Martyn to ensure the events offer the best experience possible.

With previous events attracting good numbers, there are more scheduled in the coming weeks, including one at Club Tweed on July 2.

Remembering Olivia NewtonJohn’s Life And Legacy

The unexpected death of Olivia NewtonJohn in August 2022 shocked the world, and resulted in an outpouring of grief-stricken emotion from heartbroken fans around the world. Unfortunately, her death also caused an unrepairable void in the music industry, which Olivia had been part of for decades. However, her extraordinary legacy lives on...

DAME OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN passed away in August, 2022 at her Ranch in Southern California, surrounded by family and friends. Unfortunately, she had been courageously fighting cancer for the past 30 years.

She was initially diagnosed with breast cancer in 1992, however the disease reoccurred in 2013 and 2017. Fortunately, Olivia remained a symbol of hope for people suffering cancer, by sharing her battle with breast cancer with her fans……

Olivia opened ‘’The Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre’ in 2012 in Melbourne. The Wellness and research Centre’s main objective was to support and make a difference to the lives of people with cancer and support cancer research.

As a result of her death, a plethora of celebrity tributes followed, including heartfelt messages from her Grease co-star John Travolta, music powerhouse Barbara Streisand and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese……………..

Olivia achieved phenomenal success as a singer, songwriter, actress and passionate activist, which subsequently secured her a place in music history. She is the recipient of four Grammy Awards, and has amassed five number one hits, and two number one albums during her amazing career. She has sold an estimated 100 million records worldwide.

In 1979 Newton-John received an OBE (Officer of the British Empire) from Queen Elizabeth II and in 1981 she was included in the ‘’Hollywood Walk of Fame.’’ She was also named ‘’A National Living Treasure of Australia.’’

Olivia Newton-John in front of her Wellness Centre STORY COURTESY

2023 AUSTRALIAN OPEN –DAY 13 WRAP

After nearly two weeks, the first finals of the biggest Australian Open to date took place.

It was a day full of thrilling finals, with plenty of matches going down to the wire.

Women’s singles final

It was a coming of age performance that saw Cassandra Millerick take her first Australian Open crown in a final to remember.

Meeting reigning champion and a red-hot Kelsey Cottrell in the decider, Millerick had alarm bells ringing early, dropping the first seven shots as Cottrell flew out of the blocks.

Playing in front of her former home crowd at Broadbeach, the now Moama local edged her way back into the contest with precision drawing.

The duo went shot for shot, with scores locked away after nearly every second end, before Millerick took the ascendancy.

Trailing 14-16, Millerick collected a maximum of four to move ahead 18-16 and break the game wide open.

Cottrell showed her class under pressure, getting within two shots of victory herself, but with Millerick one away from victory, she built a remarkable head of bowls that would give her the win, the biggest of her career to date. It was clear what the win meant to Millerick, with tears flowing after writing her name into Australian Open folklore.

Final score: Cassandra Millerick def Kelsey Cottrell

21-19

Men’s pairs final

In what can be described as one of the most pulsating Australian Open men’s pairs finals in history, Right at Home Jackaroos Ben Twist and Aaron Wilson became the first male duo to go back-to-back at the tournament following a 17-16 victory over Aaron Teys and Aron Sherriff in the first live television broadcast final of the event.

Having led through the entirety of the contest thanks to surgical precision to navigate through heads, the pair were left shocked after their opponents gained a crucial two-shot lead with just an end to play.

Teys held sway at the final changeover but Wilson managed to conjure some magic to gain the ascendancy ahead of Sherriff’s concluding bowl.

The Queenslander was unable to disrupt the head, leaving the man affectionately known as Disco room to draw a third and secure the title, and he willingly obliged.

Celebrations ensued as the pair embraced tightly in the middle of the green, securing their own piece of tournament history in what was both of their fourth AO titles.

Final score: Ben Twist & Aaron Wilson def Aaron Teys & Aron Sherriff 17-16

Women’s fours final

The women’s fours saw Olivia Cartwright, Laura Butler, Chloe Stewart and Katelyn Inch secure a 15-9 victory over Brianna Smith, Ellen Falkner, Kristina Krstic and Ellen Ryan.

It was a maiden salutation for Cartwright, Butler and Inch, while it was a third for Stewart who performed brilliantly in the third position as the quartet donned in yellow raced out to a 7-2 lead.

In the seventh end, Ryan converted a five to level proceedings before Inch and company proved to be the foils to the party, winning the next five ends to set up an unassailable lead.

The blue foursome would peg back the next two ends and needed a four on the last to tie the match, but it was to no avail as Ryan missed with her final bowl to concede defeat.

Final score: Olivia Cartwright, Laura Butler, Chloe Stewart & Katelyn Inch def Brianna Smith, Ellen Falkner, Kristina Krstic & Ellen Ryan 15-9

Multi-disability singles finals

The multi disability women’s singles saw Chery Lindfield secure a comeback for the ages against great friend and international teammate Serena Bonnell. Bonnell raced out to an 11-2 buffer after ten ends, having just conceded one score across that time. However, Lindfield roared back into action and slowly pegged the lead back thanks to some expert drawing and weight.

After a mammoth 24 ends the score was tied at 17-17, with the Mt Gravatt member finally pulling ahead for the first time after securing a double in the 25th. As time ticked on, the pair edged right to the three hour limit only to see Lindfield secure the elusive 21 in the final end to clinch her maiden Australian Open crown, going one better than last year’s runner up placing.

Singleton RSL’s Andrew Turner survived a gallant comeback from New Zealander Chen Naude to take out the men’s multi-disability crown.

Turner jumped out of the blocks, scoring the first eight shots of the match and lead 13-2 before Chen mounted a spirited fightback.

He managed to cut the deficit back to four before Turner put the foot back down on his way to a maiden Australian Open title.

Final score (women’s): Cheryl Lindfield def Serena Bonnell 21-17

Final score (men’s): Andrew Turner def Chen Naude 21-13

Multi-disability pairs final

Ken Hanson and Lucas Protopapas teamed up once more to take out their second Australian Open multidisability pairs crown.

The Victorian duo repeated their efforts from 2019, performing impressively in their final against Aaron Kelly and Brad Gilbert.

The contest was hard-fought early, but the Victorians stole the momentum through the middle stages to take the win and the title.

Final score (men’s): Lucas Protopapas & Ken Hanson def Aaron Kelly & Brad Gilbert 15-4

Vision-impaired pairs final

2022 Commonwealth Games pairing Helen Boardman and Jake Fehlberg used all of their top-flight experience to take out a thrilling vision-impaired pairs title on Thursday.

Facing off against Martin Bock and Scott Kinnear, the Comm Games duo jumped out of the blocks, leading 10-0 before Bock and Kinnear stormed back into action. The Fehlberg skipped side led 15-14 on the final end, taking shot to hold on for a memorable two-shot win.

Final score: Helen Boardman & Jake Fehlberg def Martin Bock & Scott Kinnear 16-14

Vision-impaired singles final

Fehlberg and Kinnear met for the second time in the day shortly after their pairs final in the vision-impaired singles final, with a different tale unfolding.

This time it was Kinnear who started the better, leading 13-4 at one point. Fehlberg leaned on his experience to fightback, getting within two shots towards the end of the game, but falling short as Kinnear claimed his first Australian Open crown.

Final score: Scott Kinnear def Jake Fehlberg 21-16

Think Spring Think Think Leura Leura 2023

Think Spring – Think Leura Leura Gardens Festival 2023

Gardeners looking for inspiration or just wanting to experience the beauty of spring in the world heritage listed Upper Blue Mountains, will again be flocking to the annual Leura Gardens Festival in spring.

The 57th Festival will be held for four days over the October long weekend from Friday, 29th September to Monday, 2nd October, 9.30am to 4.30pm.

We plan to make the 2023 Festival a wonderful celebration for all garden lovers and look forward to welcoming everyone back to the upper Blue Mountains.

The Festival will feature glorious gardens displaying a feast of new growth, masses of flowers, gorgeous bulbs and an amazing variety of cool-climate plants including azaleas, rhododendrons and peonies as well as magnificent deciduous trees which will just be coming into their full flowering glory.

Two Leura gardens will be new to the Festival as well as several returning favourites including Ewanrigg, St Annes and Karoola which is a garden on a larger scale and includes both formal and rambling bush settings and is remarkable for its extensive wisteria plantings.

The much-loved Cherrydell garden will be open for one day only on Friday 29 September and it is hoped many locals will take the opportunity of seeing this stunning garden in all its spring glory. And in a Festival first, a gorgeous garden in Wentworth Falls, Treetops, will also be on display.

All tickets are valid for the four days of the Festival and will be available on the Festival website from 1 August 2023.

Prices are:

Single garden $10

Three gardens $20

All gardens $40

$40 all gardens - $20 three gardens

$10 single garden

Tickets will be available on the Fes val website from 1 August, 2023

All ckets are valid for the dura on of the Fes val

The Festival ‘hop on, hop off’ bus service runs between all gardens in Leura approximately every 20 minutes, with the cost for an all-day ticket being $10. The first bus leaves Leura Station at 9.30am each day and the last bus departs the station at 4.30pm for the final circuit.

The garden in Wentworth Falls will be a ‘self drive’.

Each year over 400 volunteers support the Leura Gardens Festival and help make the Festival an outstanding success.

All proceeds go to support the Blue Mountains District ANZAC Memorial Hospital and other local health-related organisations. Since its inception, the Festival has raised more than $3.5 million. Festival details are available at www.leuragardensfestival.com.au or call 0431 095 279. You can also follow the Festival on Facebook and Instagram.