Seniors News Central Coast January-February 2020

January-February, 2020

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GOOD HOUSEKEEPING Although most people generally like to keep their homes in good order it is amazing how many people do not maintain orderly records of their financial and personal affairs.

Statements are frequently made to the effect of: “I don’t know where my Will is. I did it many years ago with a solicitor but I can’t remember where it was done.” “I don’t know where my superannuation papers are. I think I have three superannuation policies”.

This is not helpful to an Executor who has the responsibility of settling your estate after your death.

Some paperwork which is never lost usually are the rates notices and bills sometimes sitting behind a fridge magnet on your refrigerator. The reason these papers never seem to be lost is that they are repeatedly re-issued sometimes with annoying frequency.

To avoid difficulty for a future Executor there are certain housekeeping rules you should follow.

1. Keep all your important documents in a safe secure place. These may include copies of Wills, superannuation/ life insurance policies (or statements), title deeds to real estate, particulars of bank accounts and shareholding certificates. A secure place may be a locked box or packet, preferably fire rated (these can be purchased from office or hardware stores at reasonable cost).

NEWS

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Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor THIS month as we roll through the new year, it’s a pleasure to report on the enormous amount of activities being staged across the Central Coast for the NSW Seniors Festival.

There’s so much going on - from tai chi classes to the Seniors Expo, which promises a display that will keep you updated on everything available to you on the Central Coast.

The festival really is an opportunity to kick off the new year by trying something a little different.

Check out the range of entertainment in our Seniors Festival feature.

It has been a particularly uneasy start to 2020 as numerous people across the country have battled devastating fires, and we honour those who have lost and suffered.

For our part, we are open to suggestions to write travel stories to promote areas whose tourism industry has been affected.

Please just email me with your ideas,

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4. Review a copy of your Will every couple of years to ensure it is up to date so that any important changes can be recorded in either a codicil or a new Will.

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6. If you re-write your Will please ensure that the old Will is collected by you and destroyed. Although a new Will revokes an old Will this housekeeping will assist in removing clutter of obsolete documents from storage and will prevent confusion arising as to the validity of your current Will. It would be to no good purpose for your Executor to be acting by mistake on an old invalid Will.

If these simple steps are followed it should make life easier for everybody concerned.

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Cover story Seniors of the Year feature NSW Seniors Festival liftout Wanderlust Wellbeing Money Puzzle page

CONTACT US General Manager Geoff Crockett – 0413 988 333 geoff.crockett@news.com.au Editor Gail Forrer – 1300 880 265 gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Executive Sue Germany – 0408 286 539 sue.germany@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Online Get your news online at www.seniorsnews.com.au Advertising, editorial and distribution enquiries Phone: 1300 880 265 Email: advertising@seniorsnewspaper.com.au or editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Website: www.seniorsnews.com.au Subscriptions Only $39.90 for one year (12 editions) including GST and postage anywhere in Australia. Please call our circulations services on 1300 361 604 and quote “Central Coast Seniors”.

The Seniors Newspaper is published monthly and distributed free in northern New South Wales and southeast Queensland.

The Seniors newspaper stable includes Toowoomba, Wide Bay, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Northern NSW, Coffs and Clarence and Central Coast publications.

Published by News Corp Australia.

Printed by News Corp Australia, Yandina.

Opinions expressed by contributors to Seniors Newspapers are not necessarily those of the editor or the owner/publisher and publication of advertisements implies no endorsement by the owner/publisher.

Renchia Ambrose 0431 226 427

Central Coast Solicitors & CO

and I will follow up as a priority.

We also report on the inspirational Australian Seniors of the Year and their extraordinary community work.

Additionally, you can read about the breaking down of social barriers in our nursing homes.

We always look forward to receiving your community notes, date claimers and pictures to publish on our community guide page, so please keep us in mind when you wish to share your news and views with the wider community.

I wish you much joy, happiness and resilience as we all make our way through 2020.

Enjoy the read.

INDEX

3. Keep a record of the location of your Will and title deeds to your property. The originals should preferably be stored in fireproof safes in a solicitor’s office or a bank. Ensure your Executor knows the location of these documents.

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Ready for the festival

2. Review your documents about once a year and remove any that have been cancelled or else no longer current.

5. If you have moved to an interstate or remote address collect your original Will from your solicitor and store it with a solicitor operating in your new locality. Anyone searching for your Will usually confines those searches to your current or recent location.

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Responsibility for election material in this paper is taken by Gail Forrer, cnr Mayne Road & Campbell Street, Bowen Hills, QLD 4006.

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Peep behind scenes Celebrate Seniors Week with stage tours and more FRUGAL FAVOURITE: Morning Melodies opens on Wednesday, February 12, with What's New Pussycat? by Melissa Langton and Mark Jones – a celebration of 1960s music and laughter, including morning tea, for just $20.

Picture: Contributed

ALISON HOUSTON

“Our popular Morning Melodies productions also return in 2020, where audiences can enjoy a morning tea and show for only $20,” he said.

Always a favourite with seniors for an affordable morning’s entertainment, this year’s Morning Melodies program is set to open on Wednesday, February 12, with What’s New Pussycat?

Other Morning Melodies for this year will include tributes to Carole King, Olivia NewtonJohn, Liza Minnelli to Shirley

Bassey and Billy Joel, and a performance by longtime favourite Karen Knowles.

As part of the general program, on February 22, you can celebrate The Superstars of Country: Then & Now with Hayley Jensen and Jason Owen in a spectacular two-hour showcase.

Cost is $59 for adults.

And for those who like their music with a little more edge, The AC/DC Story on Saturday, February 22, is a three-hour interactive performance includ-

ing film clips, interviews and rare photographs, combined with a live performance from Accadacca.

It traces the band from its humble origins to the death of Bon Scott and its highlights under Brian Johnson.

Cost is $65 for adults.

Then, from March 6-21, you can support Gosford Musical Society talents presenting Mamma Mia the musical, with tickets from $48 for adults.

Other highlights include the Victorian State Ballet present-

ing Snow White on Saturday, May 2, and the James Morrison Quintet on Saturday, October 3.

The Seniors Week Behind the Scenes Tours start at 10am, 11am and noon on Monday, February 17, with a 20-person maximum per tour timeslot on the day.

Phone the box office on (02) 4323 3233 to register your tour interest or book for any of the shows, or go to centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/theatres/ whats-on.

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YOU can take an exclusive free look behind the scenes of the Laycock Street Community Theatre during Seniors Week, which runs from February 12-23.

The 45-minute tours on Monday, February 17, will give access to the main stage, backstage, dressing rooms and bio box (technical centre) as the theatre heads into a stellar lineup in 2020.

While it’s a cliche, there really is something for just about everyone on this year’s program, from local to national and international productions.

Genres cover musical theatre to ballet, comedy to classical, and country music to the legends of rock, as well as fun programs to share with the grandkids.

Central Coast Council Arts and Culture section manager Chris King said the Laycock St Theatre delivered more than 245 productions every year.

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COVER STORY

JANUARY, 2020//

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Mid ‘70s pop Marty Rhone finds it all a bit surreal Alison Houston

SHOWBIZ VETERAN: Marty Rhone had top-10 hits in 1975 and '77 with Denim and Lace and Mean Pair of Jeans.

Picture: Contributed

Why pay thousands of dollars in fees for a Granny Flat, plus weeks of approvals, when NSW Legislation allows you to have a caravan in your backyard for family accommodation?

IF YOU or your kids were growing up in the mid1970s, you will remember the name Marty Rhone.

But no one, least of all Marty, could have foreseen you would be hearing so much about him in 2020.

The voice of pop charttoppers Denim and Lace (1975) and Mean Pair of Jeans (1977) has just notched three No.1s on the Australian Country Music charts, released his first album in decades and is about to tour.

His acting career, which in the ’70s included Number 96 and Class of ’75, has also taken off again.

Since 2016 he has had a string of guest roles on popular Australian and American TV series, and has completed a number of

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short films that are making their way onto prestigious festival line-ups.

“It’s quite surreal, and in the case of the music, completely unexpected,” Marty said.

Inspired by Jackie Weaver’s award-winning success in 2010’s Animal Kingdom, followed by Silver Linings Playbook, Marty had decided that it was now or never to get serious about his acting.

“I was blown away by her performance,” he said of the actor, with whom he worked in an ensemble with John Waters and Rowena Wallace in his early 20s.

“We are the same age and grew up together – as a matter of fact I had a crush on her as a teenager … so seeing Animal Kingdom was the real catalyst.”

In early 2017, just as Marty was heading to the US

to further his acting career, Johnny Young and John St Peeters approached him with the song Graceland on the Line to mark the 40th anniversary of Elvis’s death.

An Elvis fan since he was eight, Marty loved the song as soon as he heard it and, 40 years on from his last single, Marty Rhone had a new worldwide release.

It hit No.1 on the world independent country music and Australian charts and caught the ear of renowned US producer David J Holman, who offered him a record deal with Cactus Studios.

The only catch was he had to write or co-write some of the songs.

“I hadn’t written in decades, let alone written a country song,” Marty said, so he called in more familiar names, Garth Porter (Sherbet) and country stars

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star back in the spotlight ‘‘ Things go in circles and you just have to hope things keep turning

Marty Rhone as the prison priest in the Seth Rogen-produced TV series Preacher.

had kept in good shape and never been afraid of hard work.

“I wasn’t an overnight success,” he said of his seeming catapult to fame when Denim and Lace was released simultaneously, showing on Reg Grundy’s hit Class of ’75 and Molly

Meldrum’s Countdown.

“I had already been around quite a few years and released a number of songs that didn’t set the world on fire.”

Marty supported the Rolling Stones at 17.

Also on his resume are appearances with John

Denver, Christopher Cross and the Bee Gees, as well as four years on London’s West End stage with Yul Brynner in The King and I from 1979.

But his first song on TV was Cliff Richard’s Bachelor Boy at just 13, and it is Sir Cliff and I, featuring a combination of his own and

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King of the World, he said the coming one would be the most spectacular he had ever done.

For more, go to martyrhonemusic.com and for a Countdown flashback, head to https://www.you tube.com/watch? v=BagIaF6HFeg.

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Cliff Richard’s best music, that Marty is touring Australian capitals with in May-July, including Sydney’s State Theatre on May 22 and Brisbane’s QPAC on May 28.

It has been eight years since his last tour, and staged by the people behind the mega-production Elvis:

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Rod McCormack and Gina Jeffreys.

Together they created We Had a Good Thing Going and Jealous of the Sky respectively, both of which topped the Australian Country Music Single Charts.

The album Jealous of the Sky was released early last month.

“Things go in circles in this industry, and you just have to hope things keep turning,” Marty said of his renewed success, although he admits it does get harder as you get older.

“It’s very challenging for people in their ‘senior years’ to make yourself relevant to the world at large.

“There are so many instances of people wanting to write you off.

“You are fighting a system that believes you have a useby date.”

He believes everyone, regardless of age, should be defined by who they are, their abilities and what they have achieved.

“If you keep focusing on someone’s age, as we do in Australia, you are putting a time limit on them.”

And while it is perhaps a little more physically challenging to keep up the pace required, Marty said he

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NEWS

JANUARY, 2020//

SENIORS

Calendar girls strike a pose TWENTY-FOUR women aged from 70 to 92 on the NSW Central Coast have put a whole new spin on retirement village living in a cheeky calendar.

With almost 60 images, the 2020 calendar showcases life at RetireAustralia’s Wood Glen Retirement Community at Erina.

Organiser and resident Kate Dowling said the calendar, named A Taste of Wood Glen, made use of an amazing array of props including 400 balloons woven into mesh fabric wrapped around the women in one scene alone.

Gleaned from five months of photo shoots and 2500 snaps, the calendar highlights community facilities including its heated swimming pool, bar, resort-style lodge, bowls green and exercise areas.

In another shot, a group of residents cheekily dressed in convict attire, are pictured trying to scale the village gates. Strategically placed bowls cover the top half of some of the women seated at the community’s green.

The women dress up as witches to mark Halloween in October, while various attempts to climb aboard

PICTURE PERFECT: One of the almost 60 images in the newly released calendar showcasing life at RetireAustralia's Wood Glen Retirement Community at Erina.

Picture: Contributed

floating pink flamingos meet with mixed success in a pool shot for January.

“We came up with the idea because we wanted to show what life was like here at Wood Glen. It’s more than just a calendar – it was about bringing people together,’’ said Mrs Dowling, whose husband Michael shot all of the images.

“Like anything, life is what you make it, and this, like many of our activities, was a whole lot of fun for all involved. “This is a friendly and welcoming community and I think this has brought a lot of us even closer. It has been a lot

of work but it has been well worth it.

“While we wanted it to be fun, it also contains some serious messages, such as that everybody’s body is beautiful.’’

Wood Glen Retirement Community manager Vanessa Fordyce said the calendar had become a talking point and highlighted the friendships that commonly developed among people living in a retirement community.

“This project was initiated by the residents, and required a lot of their time and creativity in working together, which speaks volumes for the

The October image features residents in a Halloween scence.

community spirit that exists at Wood Glen,’’ Ms Fordyce said.

The calendar comes as the village itself is preparing for a milestone year.

Construction on The Rise, a premium vertical living community and the next stage

in Wood Glen’s expansion is anticipated for completion at the end of 2020.

Setting a new benchmark for luxury retirement living on the Central Coast, The Rise features apartments incorporating high-end

Picture: Contributed

finishes, European appliances and expansive balconies to take advantage of stunning views across Erina Valley.

Prices start at $650,000 for a two-bedroom apartment.

Go to risewoodglen.com.au or phone 1800 955 070.

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JANUARY, 2020//

A whole new way of travel ALISON HOUSTON IMAGINE walking the streets of your hometown when you can no longer walk, or seeing some of the great places and art of the world when you can no longer travel.

Perhaps you’d like to live out a childhood dream of flying to the moon, or swimming with whales.

It’s all possible at The Entrance through the technological magic of virtual reality.

It’s the vision of Jason McDonald, a social worker of more than 30 years and NSW director of aged and disability care service Life Without Barriers.

He emphasises that this is

not gaming (although games are also available) but an emotional and potentially therapeutic experience for all ages.

“For older folk it can be something amazing,” Jason said, telling of a Maltese grandfather who was able to walk the roads of his childhood and show his children and grandchildren the house he grew up in.

“He thought he could never go back there and would never see it again – everyone was in tears, including,” Jason said.

Jason first experienced VR almost 30 years ago and loved it, despite the fact the actual quality was “horrific – pixelated, fragmented and ghosting”.

Instead of just watching something on a screen, it feels

BE THERE: You can walk through the Palace of Versailles, fly to the moon or revisit your home town at Central Coast Virtual Reality at The Entrance, where not even the sky is the limit!

like you jump inside this 3D world where you can move around at will, even picking things up.

When a friend suggested a few years ago that he take his kids to experience VR in Newcastle, he jumped at the chance to experience it again, and couldn’t believe the difference.

He recalls the owner’s seemingly exaggerated question, “are you ready to have

your mind blown?” Jason admits that’s pretty much what happened: and he could immediately see the opportunities not just for a business but for virtual reality to change people’s lives.

“It was breathtaking,” he said.

After a lot of research and development, the purposebuilt Central Coast Virtual Reality opened 12 months ago,

and Jason said people’s reactions have been overwhelming.

“It is so inclusive – it lets people with disabilities experience a level of freedom, of locomotion they never have,” he said.

That includes a wheelchairbound woman with MS who was able to climb Mount Everest, dive underwater and experience a roller coaster again.

For those who remember

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watching Neil Armstrong taking his first steps on the moon on crackly black and white TV, you can take Michael Collins’ seat and fly with Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin in a crystal clear, multimillion-dollar 45minute recreation of the experience.

You can also fly in a Lancaster bomber in a mission over Berlin, enter a submersible and explore the wreck of the Titanic, visit Versailles or the Louvre, and get so close to Monet’s work you can see the cracks in the paint.

For those with phobias, the experience can even be used in desensitisation, introducing you to spiders or birds gradually in a controlled setting.

With 100 choices, it’s the most extensive range of VR experiences in Australia, but it doesn’t costs the earth – a 15minute experience is $20, 30 minutes $30 or 60 minutes $50, with people in wheelchairs half price.

And for those who are unsure, you can even have a free trial of the underwater ocean experience which changed Jason’s life, The Blu. Go to www.ccvr.com.au, phone 02 4334 1841 or visit CCVR at 26 The Entrance Rd 10am-6pm Wednesday to Sunday.

•As a special February offer, Seniors who mention this article will receive a 50% discount Wednesday to Friday.

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JANUARY, 2020//

SENIORS

Help sick sea life get new HQ ALISON HOUSTON THE effects of plastic and climate change on our seabirds and marine life are as deadly as the bushfires and drought have been on land.

However, sadly, just as it has taken the bushfires for many people to realise the extent of the crisis we are facing, not enough is being done to protect our oceans.

Cathy Gilmore, founder of Australian Seabird Rescue Central Coast, entering its 15th year in 2020, said there was an ever-increasing call on the group’s resources.

When Seniors News spoke to her, she had a pelican with botulism in her bathtub, was nursing a cygnet, and the group was caring for three green turtles – Ned, Dottie and Felix – and waiting for 14 orphaned eastern longneck turtle eggs to hatch.

Albatrosses, penguins, terns, giant petrels, endangered hawkesbill turtles and, increasing numbers of pelicans and beached sea snakes have also come into their care over the past year.

The sea snakes, she said,

were the victims of progressively more acidic waters as a result of climate change. Necroscopies on turtles which didn’t survive showed their organs blocked by plastics, balloons and fishing line, which were similarly endangering pelicans.

Cathy said with only about six very active volunteers currently on the Central Coast, all of whom also work, seniors could play an important role in helping the completely volunteer-run and communityfunded ASRCC. At 57, Cathy is still happy to dive off wharves to perform rescues. However, for those wanting a less active supporting role, she said volunteers were needed for talks at schools and clubs, ongoing care and fundraising efforts, including making craft and reusable bags to sell at stalls.

Handymen are also needed to build aviaries for the birds in care, and donations are always gratefully accepted.

Recent vet bills for two of the turtles alone were $1015.

And the numbers of turtles needing care continues to grow.

“When we started out we only got a call every two to three years to rescue a turtle, and would take them down to Taronga Zoo for care, but last year alone we had 10, and in Ballina they had 80,” Cathy said.

Manly Sea Life Sanctuary donated tanks and pumps to the group when it closed in 2018, but proposed new legislation means members will no longer be permitted to care for sea life in their own backyards as they currently do.

That makes Cathy’s dream of a permanent ASRCC home more urgent. Land is needed near saltwater where they can establish tanks for the turtles and other sea creatures, pumping water directly from the waterway into the tanks.

Ultimately, she wants to establish a centre with aviaries, a turtle shed, education centre and cafe so they can promote conservation and their work first-hand to the public, as has been achieved in Ballina.

However, she said shipping containers or sheds were a viable starting option – the vital missing component was the land.

“We really need a philanthropist to come forward and donate land or the money to buy the land – it would be an incredible legacy and a way to have their name immortalised,” she said.

Sadly, not all ASRCC rescues end in success.

Felix died just days after his rescue, and the vet decided the cygnet had to be euthanised. But, there are also the successes.

Ned, found covered in moss and barnacles, underweight and suffering from pneumonia in September, is soon to be released, “fat and raring to go”, back to the wild at Soldiers Beach.

“That’s the best feeling in the world,” Cathy said.

With the first 24-48 hours of care critical to survival,

HELPING HAND: Australian Seabird Rescue Central Coast founder Cathy Gilmore nursing a southern giant petrel. INSET: Jet, the pelican, named after where he was found at Long Jetty, suffering from botulism, was the group's second rescue for 2020.

Picture: Contributed

Cathy urged anyone seeing a sea or shore bird, turtle or sea snake in distress to call them immediately on 0438 862 676.

If you can help or donate to ASRCC, please call the same number or find the group on Facebook at @Australianseabirdrescue.

Beating plastic pollution You can help protect our water inhabitants by saying no to plastic bags, not using plastic wrap on your lunches, buying a coffee keep-cup instead of using takeaway containers and buying a reusable stainlesssteel water bottle.

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Hear the beat of club’s SOS ALISON HOUSTON

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PITCHING IN: Multi-instrumental quartet Mirrabooka will headline the Thank You Fireys Fundraiser on February 1. Picture: Contributed

IT’S WHERE PEOPLE COME TO MEET AND WHERE THE MUSIC COMMUNITY COMES TO PLAY. nights and functions including birthday parties, weddings and wakes.

Coming events include sixpiece band Driftwood on Australia Day with a host of Aussie classics, the iconic Dave Graney on February 7, a special Valentine’s-themed Bouddi Beats Jam on February 14 and a special yetto-be revealed album launch on February 15.

“Sometimes you walk into the place and it’s just amazing, the atmosphere is buzzing – it’s too good to lose,” Treveen said.

“There are so many people, particularly older people who feel safe to come in here on their own and who would not have anywhere to go without it.’’

They are the first to admit that while the club can dress up well for functions, it is “a bit run down”, or as John laughs, “it’s got character”.

To brighten it up, Treveen started taking photos at club events to display on the noticeboard.

“If you look at those photos and the people in

them, that’s the story of the club,” she said.

Asked how people could help, Treveen said: “Apart from the obvious donation of money, I’d say to use the club, book functions there, come to listen to the music and help keep it going.’’

They are also eager to hear from anyone who can donate tables or other furniture, sound equipment, office items from computers and chairs right down to paper and pens.

They hope community groups will also contact them about the possibilities of using the club, whether for one-off events or ongoing, particularly during weekdays when it currently only opens from 3pm.

The message from Treveen is simple: “Come down and support your club … you are missing out on something special.”

The Hardys Bay Club is at 14 Heath Rd, Hardys Bay, and membership costs just $15 annually. It is open Monday to Thursday 3-10pm, Fridays till midnight and weekends noon until late, and there is also a Thai restaurant on site.

To find out more about the club or the Thank You fireys Fundraiser, go to hardysbayclub.com.au, @hardysbayclub on Facebook or phone 02 4360 1072.

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HARDYS BAY Club is the centre of its community both literally and figuratively – but it’s in desperate need of help.

Despite this, it is doing its bit for the Rural Fire Service, holding a fundraiser on Saturday, February 1 to help the fireys, and communities and individuals devastated by the bushfires.

Local four-piece multiinstrumental favourites Mirrabooka will play, and there will be raffles and auctions, with all money raised going to the Killcare Wagstaffe RFB to distribute.

If you’ve not been before or for some time, it’s a great reason to visit and discover the club’s unique character – just minutes from the waterfront, set among gum trees backing onto Bouddi National Park.

Treveen and John Brown are two of a small band of volunteers fighting for the club’s life. They say it has become a victim of the Coast’s success, with the property having last sold for $1.6 million, raising the club’s annual rent to an unsustainable level, particularly given the quiet winter months.

“It’s not like any other club on the Coast,” John said.

“It’s all about the community – there’s no pokies and the only people paid are the bar and cleaning staff; the rest of us are all volunteers.”

Treveen said the club’s closure “would leave a huge hole in the community”.

“It’s where people come to meet and where the music community comes to play,” she said.

Originally established as an RSL, the Hardys Bay Club has been through a number of identities, local lenders, owners, highs and lows.

Despite that, the log cabin, with its outdoor deck, gazebo and grassed courtyard, has firmly established itself as a live-music venue, particularly for local musicians.

The club has a current membership of 400-500, having reached about 800 at its peak. A recent outdoor concert by Melinda Schneider and Mark Gable attracted 450 people, and inside the club can hold about 120 on a good night.

There is a range of live music from ticketed touring artists to local music jams open to everyone, including the monthly Blues Jam (which in January raised $1000 for fire relief), trivia

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Generations connected THE Office of eSafety is reaching out to high school students to assist in increasing digital literacy for older Australians and building intergenerational relationships.

The Be Connected Young Mentors Program has just finished being trialled across Australia. The official launch of the free program is set for late March.

For eSafety project manager Jill McNaught, being connected doesn’t just mean helping seniors to go online and do it safely.

It is also about benefiting student skills in leadership and community connection, and “breaking down the stereotypes on both sides of the generational gap”.

The Young Mentors program is based on research that indicated seniors want one-on-one support with learning based on what the seniors identify

they want to learn rather than what is prescribed through a structured learning process.

“The young mentors meet the seniors where they are at in their learning journey and work from there,” Ms McNaught said.

The student mentors are given three hours of training, which covers mentoring skills, how to mentor an older person, the barriers that may need to be overcome, the safety and boundaries of the relationship, the benefits of mentoring for both cohorts and learning about the Be Connected learning resources.

Most of the pilot groups ran four to six weeks of mentoring sessions.

NSW pilot project member Manly Computer Pals chose to partner with 20 Year 9 students from several northern beaches schools that were involved in the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.

NET PROFITS: Sydney’s Manly Computer Pals members with northern beaches students who took part in the Be Connected trial program helping older Australians to improve their digital literacy.

Picture: Contributed

“For the Bronze Award they need to complete 13 weeks of community service,” Ms McNaught said.

The students received three hours of training and then did 10 weeks of mentoring.

President Judy Elias said

the club ran its pilot in its clubroom.

The students were then paired by Manly Computer Pals with 20 seniors who brought in their own android or Apple devices.

They met the mentors for one-hour sessions to

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“Their questions were whatever they had difficulty with on their own devices,” Ms Elias said. “The Year 9 students tried very hard to answer those questions.

“If they couldn’t answer

them, the students would do some research and answer the questions the following week.

“The seniors benefited because they learnt on the job from kids that use their devices all the time, so they felt as though they were in today’s world.”

Ms Elias said both the seniors and the students enjoyed working on the project.

“The kids were enthralled with talking to the seniors about life skills generally, not just digital skills,” she said.

“Socially, it was amazing.’’

She also noticed new connections being made between the participating seniors.

As a result of the success of the pilot project, the club plans to offer the course for more seniors in April.

For more information or to register an organisation’s interest in participating, go to esafety.gov.au/seniors/ be-connected-youngmentors.

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Super seniors celebrate at a free concert THERE will be plenty of reasons for Lake Mac seniors to celebrate next month when a free concert kicks off at Belmont 16s.

Lake Macquarie City Council’s annual Seniors Concert will feature local entertainers Lisa Crouch and Michael Montgomery, whose cabaret show has toured

throughout Australia and internationally.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said the concert was part of the NSW Seniors Festival, reaching an estimated 500,000 seniors state-wide.

“This year’s theme is Love to Celebrate, and that’s exactly what our Seniors Concert intends to do,” Cr Fraser said.

LOCAL ENTERTAINER: Lake Macquarie City Council's annual Seniors Concert will feature local entertainer, Lisa Crouch.

“It will celebrate the enormous contribution of seniors – through their wisdom, their community service, their connection to

family and friends and the countless things they do to make our city better.”

This year’s concert starts at 10am on Tuesday, February 11,

with light refreshments from 9.30am, and runs until noon.

Belmont 16s is a wheelchair accessible venue.

Bookings to the free

Picture: Contributed

concert are essential and can be made online.

To book, go to seniorsconcert20.eventbrite. com.au or ph 02 4921 0333.

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FEATURE

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Award shines spotlight on inspirational eight Disability advocate fights inequality Climate issues close to artist’s heart SUE Salthouse, ACT, 70 DISABILITIES advocate Sue Salthouse found herself in a wheelchair after a horseriding accident at age 45.

She experienced first-hand the systemic inequality facing people with disabilities.

Sue began advocating for disabled people’s rights to accessible housing, economic security and the chance to contribute to society.

She now runs a consultancy company specialising in disability rights advocacy and works in the disability sector.

“As a 70-year-old paraplegic woman, my award highlights a need for awareness about disability and ageing,’’ she said. “There are now nearly two million Australians over the age of

RIGHTING WRONGS: Sue Salthouse

65 who have significant disabilities.

“Those of us who have had our disabilities in younger years will be joined by our friends who acquire disabilities as the years pass.

“With an ageing

Picture: Contributed

demographic, our numbers will grow. In 2020 as a finalist for Senior Australian of the Year I will be urging governments to take a closer look at understanding the intersection of disability and ageing.”

BANDUK Marika (AO), NT, 65 ARTIST, cultural activist and environmental adviser, Marika is known for her exquisite prints of ancestral creation stories on lino, her original medium of choice.

Banduk and her sisters are among the first Yolngu women whose male relatives have encouraged them to paint ancestral creation stories.

Marika is also a cultural activist and environmental adviser and has appeared as a speaker at national and international conferences.

“There are so many issues in communities, including climate change, which is changing the face of the environment. You can see it happening in front of you. I would love to have a round table with people who are

GREEN THEME: Artist Banduk Marika.

caring enough to talk about what possibilities we have and what measures we have that will delay the environmental changes.

“What about having an emu parade around your community, picking up

Picture: Contributed

rubbish, cleaning up your creeks and digging up debris – volunteers working together. I am also working on a healing centre here; working on natural healing without going to doctors for hard drugs.”

Digging in for land-care awareness

Champion of protecting our planet

DR Graeme Stevenson, TAS, 74 A LANDCARE activist and longstanding volunteer for Landcare Tasmania, Graeme has been promoting healthy soils in Tasmania for more than 30 years.

He has initiated and managed projects along the coastline, including willow removal, riverside fencing and managing soil slippage.

Graeme works with farmers as a soil assessor and agronomy consultant and has written a number of books showcasing his expertise.

He also presents his soil knowledge to schoolchildren as an alter ego, known as Dr Spluttergrunt.

SUE Lennox, NSW, 67 Sue is an environmental educator and social enterprise founder.

As a teacher, she was concerned about young people’s anxiety and despair about the future of the planet.

She co-founded the award-winning social enterprise OzGREEN (Global Rivers Environmental Education Network Australia Inc), which teaches young people how to take positive environmental action through education, participatory leadership and community development.

OzGREEN has developed sustainability programs in 1600 locations across

DOWN TO EARTH: Dr Graeme Stevenson is a strong supporter of the importance of looking after the land.

Picture: Contributed

“My wish is to promote land care to both regional and urban Australia,” Graeme said. “Either join an existing group, form a group

of your own or, if you live in a city, adopt a group. I am a Dr Who fan and consider land care is like the Tardis – bigger on the inside!”

ACTION CALL: Sue Lennox

Australia, India, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Pakistan.

“The threat of global sustainability challenges like climate change call on us to redesign our society in a

short time. If everyone lived like we do, we would need five planets. At a global scale we are living at 1.7 planets beyond the carrying capacity of our Earth.

“We all have a role in creating a world where we are living in harmony with each other and the Earth.

We need to change our way of living, switch to renewables and reduce our carbon footprint.

“We need to be prepared for the increasingly severe impacts of climate change, as witnessed with the massive fires near my home on the NSW north coast.

“We need to equip our youth with skills to innovate new ways of living.’’

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motivated by selfless service to communities Tackling men’s unhealthy mindset PETER Dornan (AM), QLD, 76 Following a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, and after experiencing depression, incontinence and other side effects, sports medicine physiotherapist Peter Dornan (AM) put an ad in a newspaper, inviting fellow patients to meet.

Since then, he has supported men diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Peter’s commitment to helping men share experiences and seek support has helped create a culture change in the treatment management for men with the disease.

Receiving a grant to research incontinence – a common consequence in men after prostate cancer treatment – he designed a

CULTURAL CRUSADE: Men’s health activist Peter Dornan.

Picture: Contributed

successful program to treat the condition and published a book used by Australian prostate cancer support

groups.

“My central quest is to change male culture in relation to their health’” he said.

“I want to remove their mantle of machoism. Part of the answer can be found by realising, historically, going back 200,000 years to the hunter-gathers, the first homosapiens, society needs have dictated men fulfil three main roles: the three Ps – that is, provider, protector and procreator.

“We delegated our women to look after our health. So, are men held captive by their manhood, isolated from emotion, vulnerability and their greater humanity?

In reality, these emotions have become unnaturally suppressed. We have to change now – to cut through the nonsense.’’

Making inroads in curbing fatalities for drivers DR Raymond Shuey (APM), vic, 74.

A former police officer and assistant commissioner for traffic and operations, Ray’s signature achievement during his career was Project Beacon, which trains police in operational safety when responding to mental health and critical incidents.

With road safety partners, Ray developed initiatives to increase enforcement and education programs, resulting in a massive reduction in the Victorian road toll.

He contributed to WHO good-practice literature and has authored many road safety publications, providing knowledge and

SAFETY: Raymond Shuey.

inspiration for others.

“The consequences of road trauma on the community, nationally and personally, are horrendous.

“My work, life experience and knowledge identify road

trauma as predictable and preventable.

“Since nomination, I have assisted Rotary to develop learner-driver symposia to reduce P-plate trauma and have been co-opted to road safety advisory and editorial boards.

My 2020 award provides an authoritative voice, making a significant difference in saving lives.

“My contributions include keynote presentations, research, peer reviews and donation services motivating others in a paradigm change towards driver attitudes and behaviours, to achieve a ‘culture’ of safety and respect on our roads.”

Sylvia always willing to answer call SYLVIA McMillan, SA, 90 Sylvia McMillan has dedicated her life to being of service to her community.

The 90-year-old has been a force of good to everyone around her and shows no signs of stopping.

She is still the chairwoman for her local branch of Legacy, the organisation that provides services to families of deceased defence force members.

In between her volunteer activities, she regularly attends the gym and does water aerobics with a group at the local Parks Community Centre.

“I want people to get involved, to share the enjoyment of doing things for other people, to help other people,” Sylvia said.

“I plan to keep doing what

DYNAMO: Sylvia McMillan has dedicated many years to her community, including her local Legacy branch.

Picture: Contributed

I am doing now and keeping happy, going to the gym and

keeping involved with my clubs.”

Obstetrics work a world benchmark PROFESSOR John Newnham (AM), WA, 67 A professor of obstetrics, John has been instrumental in making Western Australia an international hotspot for research and clinical excellence in pregnancy and life before birth.

He founded and led the pioneering Raine Study, the world’s first and most enduring pregnancy-focused lifetime cohort project.

John has been described by the world’s leading scientific journal as an intellectual leader of modern obstetrics who has changed the practice of medicine and the lives of women and infants.

VOLUNTEER GRANTS

EMINENT: Professor John Newnham (AM).

“I will use (this award) to my very best,’’ John said.

“This program requires the education of our everchanging pregnant population and their

Picture: Contributed

families, and our everchanging workforce.

“We have much work left to do, but this award will be wonderful in helping us to achieve our goal.”

EmmaMcBRIDE

FEDERAL MEMBERFOR DOBELL

Do you know a local volunteer organisation that could benefit from a grant?

Volunteers are the lifeblood of our community.

Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 are available to eligible not-for-profit community organisations.

For more information contact my office or visit emmamcbride.com.au Expressions of interest close Friday 14 February 2020 204/1 Bryant Drive Mariners Centre of Excellence TUGGERAH NSW 2259 V1 - SECE01Z01MA

www.emmamcbride.com.au Authorised by Emma McBride MP, ALP, 204/1 Bryant Drive, Tuggerah NSW 2259

Emma.McBride.MP@aph.gov.au (02) 4353 0127

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Community notes Local writers meet monthly to encourage and develop their skills. Meeting on the fourth Saturday of each month – arrive 1.15pm for a 1.30pm start. Our next meeting is on January 25 at Woodbury Park Community Centre, 1 Woolmers Crescent, Mardi. Inquiries with Mei-Ling Venning, president, on (02) 4333 748, email meilingvenning @hotmail.com or go to wyongwriters.org.

VIEW CLUBS VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women and is a valued part of The Smith Family, raising money for the Learning For Life Program. The program sponsors and helps educate disadvantaged Australian children and young adults.

Brisbane Water Evening We hold our monthly dinner meeting in the

Function Room at the Grange Hotel, Renwick Street, Wyoming, on the fourth Tuesday at 6.30pm for 7pm. New members and visitors are most welcome.

Phone Valda on (02) 4325 1688 or Helen on (02) 4367 5670.

Toukley Newly retired or looking to make new friends? We meet on the second Friday of the month at Club Toukley RSL at 10.30am. We have lucky door prizes, raffles and a two-course lunch for $25 followed by guest speakers or members’ participation and interesting discussions.

We also have outings and friendship morning teas with raffles and lucky door prizes.

Joining our VIEW Club is a perfect opportunity to meet with other like-minded women and establish new friendships. For more, phone Kathie on (02) 43930 647 or 0413 424 949.

CBWN FEBRUARY LUNCHEON THE Central Coast Women In Business Gosford Luncheon is on Wednesday, February 5, from noon-2pm at The Entertainment Grounds. Guest speaker this month is Marney McQueen.

Marney is one of Australia’s most versatile performers, starring on stage, film and television. Marney will share her inspiring journey juggling a successful career, family and new life here on the Central Coast. Community and Business Women’s Network – CBWN – unites women in business and community on the Central Coast.

We believe that connecting gives opportunities for growth, resilience and inspiration at business, community and individual levels. BWN is open to all women who wish to connect, support, grow, learn, network, inspire,

A peaceful shopping experience Enjoy Quiet Time at Westfield Tuggerah every Tuesday between 10:30am – 11:30am.

With dimmed lights and soft music, you can shop peacefully in a sensory-friendly environment.

OUT AND ABOUT: The region has a plethora or social and other clubs for seniors, particularly new arrivals, who want to forge friendships and make the most of the idyllic local lifestyle.

Picture: Contributed

share or encourage local spending.

If you are keen to connect with other Central Coast women in a relaxed and friendly setting, book a seat at our next monthly event or join the CBWN Facebook

group today.

Membership is available at a cost of $50 a year.

This includes event discounts and a personalised name badge. Community & Business Women’s Network is a project of the Iris

Foundation.

For tickets for the upcoming luncheon at The Entertainment Grounds, go to stickytickets.com.au/ sx4r0 or phone Sharyn on 0414 341 010 for more information.

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Salvos offer vibrant villages BRAND INSIGHTS WILLIAM Crowley is the Operations Manager of Retirement Living for The Salvation Army Aged Care (TSAAC).

With more than 30 years of experience across the aged care industry, William brings a wealth of knowledge to our services, and most importantly, to our retirement living residents.

If you’re considering moving into a retirement village, this article is for you.

William spoke with us to share his insights into retirement living.

Q. When is a good time to start planning for retirement?

A. “A move to a retirement village is often viewed as something you do if you are sick or old. You may not want to be in a retirement village full of old people. It’s easy to make these generalisations before visiting to see the vibrancy of the community where residents are engaged with a wide range of activities. It’s never too early to start planning, so feel free to book a tour at any of our retirement villages so you can see for

yourself.’’

Q. What retirement living options does The Salvation Army Aged Care offer?

A. “We offer a range of affordable units across several vibrant retirement villages.

These villages are conveniently located in well-established areas with access to Community Care programs.

“Accommodation ranges from studio budget accommodation through to two-bedroom and threebedroom units, all designed to foster your independence and ensure you stay safe and supported.

“Our retirement villages are all co-located with a residential care service, which means that respite care is always available.

“This offers peace of mind knowing that if your health or care needs ever change, you won’t need to move away from your retirement village community, as your friends and neighbours will still be part of your life.’’

Q. Are there any social activities or events for residents?

A. “All our retirement villages offer a range of activities to entertain

EXPERIENCE: William Crowley, Operations Manager of Retirement Living for The Salvation Army Aged Care.

residents. Our bus trips are always popular as residents explore historic places of interest or take advantage of the many arts and cultural events and shows that are playing.’’

Q. What kind of support is available?

A. “Each retirement village has an emergency call system

so that in the event of an emergency, medical assistance can be called on. Our team will ensure someone is always available to speak with you.

Our team also takes responsibility for all maintenance for the grounds and gardens.

“Our team does all the hard work so that you have more

time to enjoy your retirement interests. Birthdays are celebrated with a community at the retirement village. There is always a group of residents that share the same interests.’’

Q. What other services does The Salvation Army Aged Care offer?

A. “An essential component of all our villages is access to

Picture: Contributed

our Salvation Army chaplain, who works with the village team to ensure residents feel valued as individuals and secure in their homes.’’

Q. How can prospective residents find out more?

A. “Please give us a call on 1300 111 227 or visit our website, agedcare.salvos .org.au.’’

Affordable and stylish 1, 2, 3 bedroom apartments selling now.

Enquiries A 120-140 The Entrance Road, Erina NSW 2250 T 02 4365 9373 E agedcare.enquiries@salvationarmy.org.au W agedcare.salvos.org.au V1 - SECE01Z01MA

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MONDAY JANUARY 20 2020 SENIORSNEWS.COM.AU

EMOTIONAL MEETING: Brian at the Anzac Day service in Hellfire Pass, where he met Harold Mills, a former prisoner there.

Picture: Contributed

Journey to a new outlook

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When you look better, you feel better about yourself. This can give you more confidence to do things you never thought you could.

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For Health, For beauty, For you

MY NAME is Brian and I am writing this article to tell of three amazing events my wife and I shared during a trip to South-East Asia.

It was one of the most healing journeys of my life and brought about closure for me regarding my tour of duty to South Vietnam.

In 1965 I was conscripted for national service into the Royal Australian Army. I was deferred from the first intake to complete an apprenticeship and drafted in the third intake on April 20, 1966. This was the Tuesday straight after I had just finished my apprenticeship on the Friday before (I never worked one day in that trade).

After eight months of army training, I was deployed to South Vietnam in January 1967 and returned home in late December 1967. I failed to complete my 12-month tour due to a severe alcohol problem fuelled by resentment towards the Australian government and the country of South Vietnam for perceived loss of my trade.

After being trapped in a downward spiral for some years, I found recovery and support but still clung to disdain for Vietnam in the belief that this country was the direct or indirect cause of most of my life’s problems.

I married my wife, Diane, in 1992. Di had a nursing career as a midwife, mental health nurse and a remotearea nurse. We lived in Forster Tuncurry in NSW and at an Anzac Day service in 1996, I met two WWII veterans, Kemble and Elliott, who were prisoners on the infamous Burma Railway and were interned in Hellfire Pass.

In 1998, these two friends talked me into joining Legacy to assist families of deceased veterans. Every year since, at remembrance services, I would say to them: “Di and I will visit Burma Railway and Hellfire Pass one day.’’

Sadly, in 2012 Elliott passed away and in 2013, while watching the Anzac Day service broadcast from Hellfire Pass, Di said we should honour the promise to go and suggested that it may help me to include Vietnam in the trip.

So, we extended our trip to cover Vietnam, Burma Railway and Hellfire Pass, a journey that turned out to be a life-changing experience.

Our voyage began in 2014 and while on a train trip from Da Nang to Hue my wife had to deliver a baby girl on the carriage floor.

Di needed something to tie off the “cord”, so I provided some pink ribbon off my suitcase. It was a

remarkable moment and symbolic to “new beginnings”.

Two weeks later we attended the Long Tan Cross Memorial, where the young Vietnamese guide opened the boot of his car and gave us a fresh red rose to place on the cross. On Anzac Day we attended the service in Hellfire Pass, where I met Harold Mills, who was a prisoner there.

These three events made me contemplate forgiveness, respect and new beginnings. I thought about the greatgrandparents of the newborn who is no longer my enemy soldier on the opposing force. Today he is a human being just like me.

A farmer who lost his village and livelihood during the terrible war. Then there was our young Vietnamese guide, who treated us with equality and respect and did not display any malice towards the people who invaded his country. And our friend Harold: hearing his story helped me to realise that I have never really had it tough compared with himself, Kemble and Elliot, soldiers who lost their freedom.

Di and I returned home with a new depth of gratitude for life. And I am finally free of past demons and have a new attitude and respect towards Vietnam.

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12-23 FEBRUARY 2020 Visit seniorsfestival.nsw.gov.au to find an event near you or contact your local council

Beyond Basic In-Home Care Contact 4363 5090 www.CoastwideCommunityCare.com.au 7121973aa

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Enhancing lives with quality care BRAND INSIGHTS IS YOUR loved one finding daily activities more challenging?

Ageing shouldn’t stop your loved one from living the life they want and deserve.

Our team at Coastwide Community Care strongly believe that every person and family is unique and the care and support they need should be tailored to match their personality, personal preferences, life experience and needs.

We serve with compassion and devotion and take pride in every aspect of their care to ensure that they have access to the best-quality care services and support they need to continue living safely, independently and happily in the comfort of their own home with greater personal dignity, self-worth and selfesteem.

It takes a huge leap of faith to trust someone you don’t know to take care of your senior loved one.

Hiring a professional carer means admitting him or her not only into your loved one’s home but also into your family’s private world.

You’ll be entrusting this person with the safety, security and health of someone you love dearly.

Coastwide Community Care provides older adults with quality care on the Central Coast, enabling our clients to live happier, healthier lives at home.

Our services are distinguished by the calibre

MAKE A DATE: The Seniors Festival program is packed with interesting and challenging activities, outdoors and inside, to add to your social calendar.

Picture: Contributed

Great chance to add to rich experiences GAIL FORRER of our caregivers, the responsiveness of our staff, and our expertise in live-in care.

We embrace a positive, balanced approach to ageing, centring on the evolving needs of older adults by providing our care workers with the expertise and empathy that our Central Coast seniors deserve.

We’re committed to the professional development of our carers, so we place a high priority on offering continuous training in the most up-to-date methods of care giving.

Our commitment to continuing education is so strong that all of our care

workers undergo training and are up to date with caring techniques.

We place emphasis on healthy living, physical activity, good nutrition, social engagement and other beneficial lifestyle elements that have been shown to augment seniors’ health and wellbeing.

How much will my home care package cost?

Taking up a home care package is free if you are a full pensioner or your income is below the means-tested care fee.

A home care package is a co-ordinated package of care and services to help you to

live independently in your own home for as long as you can. Whether it’s help around the home, personal care, social support, respite, nursing care, transport etc., let Coastwide Community Care help you to live your life your way.

We pride ourselves on helping our clients navigate the application process.

Call us for a free in-home consultation. If your loved one needs professional care, Coastwide Community Care is here to help.

Contact one of our care experts on (02) 4363 5090 or go to Coastwide communityCare.com.au.

COME ON friends, it’s time to start planning for the annual NSW Seniors Festival.

To get the best out of the enormous range of activities, entertainment and celebrations specially planned for you and your friends, look through this festival feature and start marking off the dates.

Among the many things this festival offers is the great opportunity to experience something different or perhaps meet up with a new social group.

Maybe you considered tiedyeing or tai chi, or thought about attending a free Tech-

Savvy Seniors class at the library, but not quite made it there. The Seniors Festival really does give us the chance to start the year with a new goal in mind.

I’m sure you will be impressed with the practical aspect of many of the sessions.

For instance, are you thinking about improving your diet (and who isn’t?). You may enjoy the Cooking for Positive Ageing classes and then there’s the Healthy Ageing Talk from a health professional, which also takes in a mental health perspective.

The community has worked hard to have something for everyone – so don’t miss out on this once-a-year event.

Enjoy and happy festival.

Attention to quality of Life Contact 4363 5090 www.CoastwideCommunityCare.com.au 7121973ab

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Top ideas to let good times roll LOVE to celebrate?

Then you’re in luck, because there will be lots to celebrate at the 2020 NSW Seniors Festival!

The theme for the 2020 festival is Love to Celebrate. During the festival there are hundreds of free and discounted events and activities for seniors across NSW. The festival will run from February 12-23; see our calendar of events listing below for details.

Central Coast Seniors Week program SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Senior Moments 2 John Wood, Benita Collings and Max Gillies are having more Senior Moments, with Geoff Harvey on piano, in this senior theatrical sensation. Senior Moments 2 is a comedy revue with a deliciously funny and fresh collection of comic sketches and songs performed by cast members who are old enough to know better.

Venue: The Art House, 2pm and 7.30pm.

Cost: From $55.

Contact: Bookings essential on 4335 1485 or at thearthouse wyong .com.au/whatson/senior.

vocal pyrotechnics, breathtaking harmonies and off-the-wall humour. Hits of Tom Jones, Burt Bacharach, The Mamas and The MONDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Papas, Petula Clark, Free Filmmaking Aretha Franklin, Dusty Course Springfield, Carole King This event is a fiveand The Fab Four will day free filmmaking be performed by course and workshop Australia’s favourite for people aged 50 cabaret duo, Melissa years and over with an Langton and Mark interest in filmmaking.

Jones.

Participants will learn Venue: Laycock how to make their own Street Community five-minute film, which Theatre, 11am. will then be screened at Cost: $20. a Seniors Film Festival Contact: Phone 4323 held in The Hub, at the 3233 or visit Erina Centre, on 24 centralcoast.nsw.gov.a HAVE A BALL: Seniors Week gives you the chance to try something new and interesting, February. u/theatres. both physical and mental.

Picture: Contributed Venue: The Hub, The Active Over 50s Erina Centre Silver Classes Centre, February 1, Morning tea included.

(02) 4352 1886 or Screen, 10am-2pm.

Active Over 50s 10.30am.

Venue: Gosford 50+ email Cost: Free.

Group fitness classes Cost: Free.

Leisure & Learning info@alisonhomestead. are targeted at Contact: Bookings Contact: 4304 7222 Centre, 10am-2pm. com.au. Bookings essential. Register improving strength, (bookings are Cost: Free. essential. online at cardiovascular fitness, Contact: Phone 4304 Fun With Friends www.coastonscreen.or essential). balance and overall Venue: Terrigal 50+ 7065.

Fun With Friends is a health. g or email info@coast Leisure and Learning relaxing, catered event onscreen.org.

Venue: Lake Haven Centre, Tuesday, WEDNESDAY, that you can bring your Recreation Centre, FEBRUARY 12 February 4, 10am. friends along to or meet 8.30-9.30am.

TUESDAY, Morning tea with FEBRUARY 4 Cost: Free. new ones. Enjoy cards, Cost: Free.

Jake Cassar Cooking for Positive Contact: 4384 5152. board games, prizes Contact: Phone 4304 Join us for a Ageing and a handicraft table 8020.

WEDNESDAY, Devonshire tea with Nutrition and (BYO knitting/crochet, FEBRUARY 5 entertainment Cooking for Positive etc). Guest speaker is THURSDAY, Healthy Ageing Talk presented by Jake Ageing is back by FEBRUARY 13 Shaun Mahoney, from Learn about good Cassar, renowned popular demand. As we Chirpy Plus, who heads NSW Seniors Festival mental health and Central Coast singer, age, our food and Expo up one of the fastestwellbeing as we get songwriter, musician cooking needs change.

This annual, free and growing 55-plus older, with a talk from and bushcraft expert.

This free healthy fun event features friendship groups. health professionals Venue: Alison cooking workshop for more than 60 Venue: Peninsula Homestead Museum, 1 Community Centre, positive ageing teaches with the Central Coast exhibitors, live stage Local Health District.

Cape Rd, Wyong, 10amyou how to cook a entertainment and 11am-1.30pm. noon. nutritional and delicious This will include plenty of games, What’s New information, resources Cost: $10 (includes meal using everyday, giveaways and Pussycat? and a special clinic for museum entry, seasonal ingredients workshops. The expo Check out this anyone wishing to morning tea and the without skimping on joyous, foot-stamping, has all the latest undertake a healthy show). flavour. information on travel, hand-clapping Contact: Reserved Venue: Ettalong 50+ ageing check-up and lifestyle, health, celebration of the speak to a specialist seating only. Book on Leisure & Learning Swinging Sixties, with nurses on the day.

CONTINUED PAGE 22

Personalised Care Contact 4363 5090 www.CoastwideCommunityCare.com.au 7121973ac

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This annual, free and fun event features services and more. more than 60 Venue: Hall 4, exhibitors, live stage Exhibition Centre, ICC, entertainment and Sydney, 9am-6pm. plenty of games, Cost: Free. giveaways and Contact: Register workshops. The expo online at has all the latest eventbrite.com.au. information on travel, Art of Ageing lifestyle, health, Exhibition services and more.

The Art of Ageing Highlights include: a digital photography toe-tapping exhibition celebrates performance from the experience and Australia’s longest contributions of older Beatles cover band; a people in NSW, with 30 talk and book signing images and stories that with author, challenge outdated scriptwriter and Home perceptions of ageing. and Away star Judy Venue: Umina Beach Nunn; free barista Library, February 13-22 coffee when you visit (not including Saturday the Challenger stand; and Sunday), 10amdance lessons from noon.

Brent Street Dance Cost: Free.

School; an Elvis Contact: Phone 4304 impersonator; holiday 7333. giveaways, Planning Your competitions and Future Seminar prizes.

Tuggerah Library, Venue: Hall 4, Centrelink and Carer’s Exhibition Centre, ICC, Benefits. It’s never too Sydney, 9am-3.30pm. early to begin planning Cost: Free. for your future Contact: Register – working out what online at you want, looking at the eventbrite.com.au. options available and setting some goals. This Scale and Diorama free seminar, provided Modelling by the Financial In this introduction to Information Service, scale and diorama can help you plan your modelling with Peter financial situation.

Rae, uncover the Venue: Tuggerah historical background Library, 10am-noon. to the fascinating world Cost: Free. of model making and Contact: Phone 136 the varied ways they 357 or email can be exhibited. Learn fis.seminar.bookings@ about the types of humanservices.gov.au. modelling, actual FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14 NSW Seniors Festival Expo

models and dioramas.

Peter has created many models over the years

and even built the model ship on display at the Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre.

Venue: Erina Library, 10-11.30am.

Contact: Phone 4304 7650 or visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.a u/libraryevents.

u/seniors.

Open Week At the Gosford 50+ Centre there are many activities you can try and events to attend.

Why not come along to our Seniors Festival Open Week and meet new people, develop new friendships and find ways to stay active SATURDAY, and healthy.

FEBRUARY 15 Venue: Gosford 50+ Colonial Cuisine Centre, Monday, The Central Coast February 17 to Friday, Family History Society February 21, 8.30amis holding a social 3.30pm. history event Cost; Free and encompassing colonial RECHARGE: The festival offers a host of ways in which to includes morning/ food and lifestyle. re-energise the mind and body.

Picture: Contributed afternoon tea.

Venue: Lions Hall, Contact: Phone 4304 9am-2pm.

Open Week 9am.

7065 or visit Cost: Fee of $25 Have you ever Contact: Phone 4324 centralcoast.nsw.gov.a includes morning tea, wanted to try your 5164 or email u/seniors. hand at indoor bowls, admin@centralcoastfhs lunch, refreshments Gut Back to Basics and instructor-led darts or table tennis? .org.au.

We have all heard the activities, which may Perhaps you want to Family History saying “You are what include archery and finish your art and craft you eat’’. But did you Research Help canoeing (but can be projects like that Two volunteers from know that what we eat subject to change on painting you started last has a huge effect on our the Wyong Family the day). year. Looking for History Group will be gut health and our gut Contact: Phone 131 someone to play cards available to assist you health has a huge effect or Scrabble with? At the on our mind, immune with your family history 303 or visit research and questions. www.sport.nsw.gov.au. Ettalong 50+ Centre system and overall Estate Planning there are many Venue: Tuggerah health or disease state Find out about estate activities you can try Library, 9am-noon. and wellbeing? Find out planning for older and events to attend.

Cost: Free. all about it with Australians Why not come along to dietitian/nutritionist Contact: Phone 4351 accumulating, our Seniors Festival 2211.

Carin Clegg.

Open Week and meet Seniors’ Active Day preserving and Venue: The Entrance distributing wealth, as new people, develop Seniors’ Active Day Library, 10-11.45am. well as insurance, new friendships and includes a centre tour, Cost: Free. power of attorney, wills find ways to stay active two fun activities and Contact: Phone 4350 and assets not covered and healthy? lunch. Participants will 1550 or visit by your will. Venue: Venue: Ettalong 50+ www.centralcoast.nsw. also get to relax with Erina Library, 2.15Leisure and Learning morning tea and gov.au/libraryevents.

Centre Open Week refreshments. Numbers 3.30pm.

Art & Craft Show Cost: Free. from Monday, February are limited and Join in the opening Contact: Phone 136 17 to Friday, February bookings are taken on a ceremony of this show 357 or email 21, 8.30am-3.30pm. first-come, first-serve with a guest speaker, fis.seminar.bookings@ Cost: Free. basis. nibbles and drinks. humanservices.gov.au.

Contact: Phone 4304 Venue: Point Cost: Free.

7222 or visit Wolstoncroft Sport and MONDAY, centralcoast.nsw.gov.a Recreation Centre, FEBRUARY 17 CONTINUED PAGE 23

Communication with us will improve your life Contact 4363 5090 www.CoastwideCommunityCare.com.au 7121973ad

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family and friends talk about social media as Venue: Toukley 50+ you are not quite sure Leisure & Learning what it is all about? Join Centre, 1 Hargraves us as we explore the Street, Toukley, 4.40main players, including 6.30pm.

Facebook and Contact: Phone (02) Messenger, Instagram 4396 5075. and WhatsApp, so you can determine which is TUESDAY, the right tool for you.

FEBRUARY 18 Venue: Gosford 50+ Art & Craft Show Leisure and Learning The show will feature Centre, 12.30-1.30pm. wonderful works by Contact: Phone 4304 centre members, as 7065 (bookings well as items for sale. essential).

There will also be My Gov & My Aged Devonshire teas, plus Care an open canteen.

Do you feel that you Venue: Toukley 50+ are constantly being Leisure & Learning directed to these online Centre, 1 Hargraves sites but are unsure Street, Toukley, how to use them? If so, 9.30am-2.30pm. you are not alone so Cost: Free.

Contact: Phone (02) join us as we explore these two sites and 4396 5075. how to navigate with Grandma Moses confidence. Learn Art Show about the Client Portal The Entrance artists who won the over-50s to access your personal details, support plans, Grandma Moses Art care approvals, services Competition 2019 will being received, display a selection of interactions and their work during supporting February to inspire documentation along others to enter the popular competition in with your linked 2020. Grandma Moses services and where to go for help. You will be 2019 Selected Artists amazed at what you will Exhibition is on show from Tuesday, February be able to do.

Venue: Gosford 50+ 18 to Thursday, Leisure and Learning February 27 (weekdays Centre, 2-3pm. only).

Cost: Free.

Venue: Memorial Contact: Phone 4304 Park.

7065 (bookings Cost: Free. essential).

Contact: phone 4304 7065.

WEDNESDAY, Social Media for FEBRUARY 19 Seniors Toukley 50+ Do you feel left out Information Day when you hear your There will be many

SOCIAL SETTING: Take the chance to enjoy spending time with like-minded people over a morning or afternoon cuppa.

Picture: Contributed

interesting information stalls, including tours information on our day and away trips. Enjoy demonstrations by Central Coast businesses as well as our own 50+ activity groups. A light lunch will be provided.

Venue: Toukley 50+ Leisure & Learning Centre, 1 Hargraves Street, Toukley, 9.30am-2.30pm.

Cost: Free.

Contact: Phone (02) 4396 5075.

Young at Heart with Art The Central Coast Art Society is holding a creative art workshop for those who would like to learn more about art. All materials are supplied and there is no need to book, just come along.

Venue: Gosford Regional Gallery, 9.30am-12.30pm.

Cost: Free.

Contact: 0407 448

574.

Library Seniors Fair Join in the Seniors Week Fair with stalls for cake decorating, Umina Beach Men’s Shed, and Justice of the Peace (JP) and other services and activities.

Venue: Umina Beach Library, 10am-3pm.

Cost: Free.

Contact: Phone 4304 7333 or visit www.centralcoast.nsw. gov.au/libraryevents.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20 Scams and Online Safety Scammers use all kinds of sneaky approaches to trick you into giving them your hard-earned money and personal details.

Join us as we explore helpful strategies to keep you safe from scammers knocking on your door, identifying fraudulent calls, text messages, emails and

posted mail to help you stay safe. An hour of your time could save you thousands.

Venue: Ettalong 50+ Leisure and Learning Centre, 9.30am10.30am.

Cost: Free.

Contact: Phone 4304 7222.

Training Your Dog Training your dog: you can teach them new tricks. Louise Harding will launch her Nose to Tail Companion Workbooks. In understanding the basic principles and engaging with Louise’s process, dogs both young and old, and their owners, can easily learn new tricks.

Venue: Erina Library, 10-11.30am.

Cost: Free.

Contact: Phone 4304 7650 or visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.a u/libraryevents.

Learn to Speak with Confidence

Learn to speak with confidence and make new friends. Coastal Communicators Toastmasters invites people to join them for a special meeting that offers opportunities to develop confidence and communication skills, meet new people and perhaps develop new friendships, all while being entertained by short speeches, impromptu questions and jokes. Come along and join in the fun.

Venue: Doyalson/ Wyee RSL Club (Doylo), 7-9pm.

Contact: Phone 0431 633 686 or email coastalcommunicatorst m@gmail.com.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Seniors Festival Info Morning Gosford RSL Club is inviting seniors to attend a free information morning and concert with afternoon tea. The information morning will run from 9am-1pm and the concert and afternoon tea will be from 1.

Venue: Gosford RSL Club, 9am-1pm.

Contact: Phone 4323 2311.

Speak with Confidence Wyong Toastmasters invites you to a special meeting offering opportunities to develop confidence and communication skills, meet new people and CONTINUED PAGE 24

For Home Care, Talk to Us Now 4363 5090 www.CoastwideCommunityCare.com.au 7121973ae

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per haps forge new friendships, all while being entertained by short speeches, impromptu questions and jokes. Come along and join in the fun.

Venue: Wyong RSL Club, 10.30am12.30pm.

Cost: Free.

Contact: Phone 0421 216 952 or email wyongtoastmasters @gmail.com.

Understanding Retirement Income This seminar focuses on understanding retirement income streams, What they are, how they work,the options available, Human Services assessment, taxation assessments and choices and consequences.

Venue: The Entrance Library, 1-2.30pm.

Cost: Free.

Contact: 136 357 or email fis.seminar. bookings@ human services.gov.au.

The Superstars of Country Two of Australia’s most popular singing stars, Hayley Jensen and Jason Owen, come together for the first time in a spectacular new two-hour showcase, A Celebration of The Superstars of Country: Then & Now. The show features songs from the biggest country music superstars of our time, both then and now, as well as hit songs for the duo’s own multi-awardwinning careers.

Venue: Laycock Street Community Theatre, 8-11pm.

Cost: From $55.

Contact: Phone 4323 3233 or visit central coast.nsw.gov.au/ theatres.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Seniors Festival I Understanding Retirement Income Join this information session to better understanding retirement income streams, options available, Human Services assessment, taxation assessments, and choices and consequences.

Venue: The Entrance Library, 1-2.30pm.

Cost: Free.

Contact: Phone 136 357 or email fis.seminar.bookings@ humanservices.gov.au.

Superstars of Country Two of Australia’s

3233 or visit central coast.nsw.gov.au/ theatres.

DIGITAL DIRECTION: The Tech-Savvy Seniors program helps you to sharpen your online and computer skills.

Picture: Contributed

most popular singing stars, Hayley Jensen and Jason Owen, come together for the first time in a spectacular new two-hour showcase, A Celebration of The Superstars of Country: Then & Now. The show features songs from the

biggest country music superstars of our time, both then and now, as well as hit songs for the duo’s own multi-awardwinning careers.

Venue: Laycock Street Community Theatre, 8-11pm.

Cost: From $55.

Contact: Phone 4323

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22 The AC/DC Story The AC/DC Story is a three-hour interactive performance that documents the life and times of one of Australia’s finest musical exports.

It takes you on a journey from the humble beginnings of the legendary band through to the many highlights with Brian Johnson at the helm.

Venue: Laycock Street Community Theatre, 7.3010.30pm.

Cost: $55.

Contact: Phone 4323 3233 or visit central coast.nsw.gov.au/ theatres.

Get active!

The Office of Sport is celebrating Seniors Festival in 2020 by offering a range of fun activities specifically for seniors. Whether you’d like to try out our action packed Seniors Active Day or relax on our Hawkesbury River Cruise and Lunch, we’ve got something to get you out and about this February. Call us on 13 13 02, quote the program number and we’ll walk you through booking into one of our affordable options.

Seniors Hawkesbury River Cruise and Broken Bay Lunch

One of our most popular offerings with good reason - what could be better than a jaunt down the Hawkesbury, followed by a delicious lunch at the picturesque Broken Bay Sport and Recreation Centre? Be quick to book this rare and relaxing opportunity.

Seniors Active Day

• Tuesday 18 February • $48 per person (lunch and morning tea incl.)

• Program no: 0087753

Tour our beautiful Point Wolstoncroft Sport and Recreation Centre and enjoy lunch, morning tea and two exciting activities such as canoeing or archery.

• Saturday 15 February • $30 per person • Program no: 0087754

Seniors Festival OFFICE OF SPORT

sport.nsw.gov.au

13 13 02 7111516aa

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2020 NSW SENIORS FESTIVAL

Needing a hand at home?

Brand Insights OLDER Australians are embracing help at home and remaining independent.

Instead of feeling overwhelmed by everyday activities becoming too hard or risky on their own, they are adding a little care at home to keep on top of things and look after themselves.

Common signs you might need help. You are: 1.Often too tired to cook yourself meals

2. Increasingly worried about falling 3. Unable to drive yourself safely to appointments and social outings 4. Forgetting medications 5. Neglecting chores around the home because you’re worried about hurting yourself 6. Fatigued by daily tasks like taking out the bin and hanging the washing 7. Not confident to have showers 8. Missing appointments 9. Eager to have regular companionship in your

TAKE CARE: Home Instead Senior Care Central Coast Directors Jasmine Hopcraft and Chris Dawson.

Picture: contributed

home 10. Unable to care for yourself as well as your partner It is normal to feel as

though asking for help is a burden or loss of independence, but it’s the opposite. Having someone to drive you places, for

example, will give you the freedom to get out of the house. And by having assistance with difficult chores, you reduce the risk

of injuring yourself, which means you stay healthier and able to live independently at home for longer. Seek help now to avert a future crisis.

The type of in-home care you receive depends upon your circumstances. Along with family and friends you can choose private care available almost immediately or help via myagedcare.gov.au or 1800 200 422 to access services which are subsidised by the government.

When looking for a care provider, it is important to understand support and assistance available to you.

At Home Instead Central Coast we match you with CAREGivers who build relationships of trust through professionalism and consistency of carer, delivering services at times that suit your needs.

We can help you access private or government funded care. Call our Home Instead Senior Care Central Coast office on 02 4342 3477 and ask for Amee.

Supporting Seniors to stay at home No wait lists

No assessments

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Private and premium quality in-home care Professional, trained and police checked CAREGivers Local 24/7 care team and office support Your choice of time & consistency of CAREGivers

Each Home Instead Senior Care® franchise is independently owned and operated. ©M&S Warner 2019.

Call the Home Instead Senior Care team on 02 4342 3477 to find out more.

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2020 NSW SENIORS FESTIVAL

Festival returns to Coast THE Seniors Festival returns to the Central Coast in 2020 with a choc-full calendar of events and activities for residents aged 50 and over.

Hosted by Central Coast Council, the month-long festival celebrates seniors and the important roles they play in our community – parents, grandparents, friends, workers, neighbours and volunteers.

Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan, said the annual event offered something for everyone.

“The festival offers a

range of over 100 exciting activities including fitness classes, creative workshops, technology classes, performances, exhibitions, markets, tours, talks, nutrition, and health and wellbeing classes,” Ms Vaughan said.

“The Festival is an opportunity to reward our older residents for their contributions to the community. It also offers our valued residents a chance to meet new people, learn a new skill, start a new hobby and try something different.”

FESTIVAL FUN; Don’t miss out on the many activities and entertainment taking place across Central Coast, especially created with seniors in mind.

Highlights of the Festival include the inaugural Seniors Expo on 13 February, which will feature a variety of stallholders and key presenters from businesses,

services and community groups around the Coast.

In Memorial Park, The Entrance, selected winners of the Grandma Moses Art Competition 2019 will also

be on display from 18 to 27 February.

Mayor Lisa Matthews said the event helped to link seniors to a range of local services.

“Many seniors in our community face challenges and issues when it comes to easily accessing information and resources,” Mayor Matthews said.

“There are numerous opportunities in our community that seniors may not be aware of that are available. The Seniors Expo 2020 connects our seniors with a range of services available in our region.

“Our valuable members of the community will have an opportunity to speak with these organisations firsthand, ask questions and gather resources as required.

“Council is committed to connecting people and creating solutions and opportunities where our seniors can participate and live an active and healthy lifestyle.”

Seniors Festival runs from February 1 to 29 at various locations across the Central Coast.

For more information, go to centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/ seniorsfestival.

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Little things add up in retirement.

Are you confident you can pay for them?

We understand you’ve got a lot of living to do in retirement. Little things like grabbing a coffee, going to the movies and meals out with friends can all add to your monthly living costs. Using part of your super or savings, add a Challenger lifetime annuity to your retirement income and you’ll enjoy guaranteed income for life, no matter how long you live. It complements your other income sources, like your super and the Age Pension. So like thousands of other retirees, you too can look forward with confidence.

To find out more, go to challenger.com.au/seniorsnews or speak to your financial adviser.

Challenger Life Company Limited ABN 44 072 486 938, AFSL 234670 (Challenger), the issuer of Challenger Guaranteed Annuity (Liquid Lifetime). This information has been prepared without taking into account any person’s objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of that, each person should, before acting on any such information, consider its appropriateness, having regard to their objectives, financial situation and needs. Each person should obtain and consider the Challenger Guaranteed Annuity (Liquid Lifetime) Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before making a decision about whether to acquire or continue to hold the annuity. A copy of the PDS can be obtained from your financial adviser, our Investor Services team on 13 35 66, or at www.challenger.com.au. All references to guaranteed payments refer to the payments Challenger promises to pay under the relevant policy documents. Neither the Challenger group of companies nor any company within the Challenger group guarantees the performance of Challenger’s obligations or assumes any obligations in respect of products issued, or guarantees given, by Challenger.

40452/0120

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NSW Seniors Festival event on the Central Coast – MOVIE LEGENDS CAPTIONED

MONDAY JANUARY 20 2020 SENIORSNEWS.COM.AU

2020 SENIORS FEST

A NSW Seniors Festival grant funded event, organised

by Better Hearing Australia Central Coast, will be held on Monday 24th February at 1:30pm at Avoca Beach Picture Theatre, 69 Avoca Drive, Avoca Beach.

History served up

An open captioned version of the newly released movie, A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood, starring Tom Hanks, will be screened.

As the movie is captioned, it is particularly suitable for people with hearing loss.

The first 100 movie goers will receive a free ticket plus a choc-top ice cream.

THE WAY WE WERE: The food eaten in early Australia will be under discussion.

Picture: Contributed

Gosford, between 9am and 2.30pm. The speakers begin at 9.30am.

The entry cost is $30, which includes a delicious colonialstyle morning tea and colonialstyle lunch with tea and coffee.

This event is a must for the history enthusiast.

Make your booking by phoning (02) 4324 5164.

You can make a direct deposit or visit the society’s

centre at 4/8 Russell Drysdale St. East Gosford.

Payment must be made on booking. Direct deposit to; Central Coast Family History Society Inc. ANZ Bank BSB 012-621; Account No. 203413323.

Use reference: Col Csurname and initial.

Email to: admin@central coastfhs.org.au for more information.

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Tickets may be booked on the Avoca Beach Picture Theatre website – www.avocabeachpicturetheatre.com.au

THE Central Coast Family History Society Inc. will be hosting a special event called Colonial Cuisine on Saturday, February 15, during the 2020 NSW Seniors Festival.

The event gives a rare and unique insight into colonial food and what utensils were used during the time.

Four amazing speakers, including Associate Professor Nancy Cushing, of the University of Newcastle, will take us back to colonial cuisine days.

Edith Campbell of Brisbane Waters Historical Society will be speaking about colonial cooking utensils and gadgets.

Barbara Elkins of Central Coast Amateur Beekeepers will explain the amazing world of bees, while David Williamson, of The Egg Shed Erina, will add to the evening with an interesting discussion on the history of the family farm.

Mr Williamson is also a sponsor of the event.

The event will be held at the Lions Community Hall, 3/8 Russell Drysdale St, East

A family owned farm proudly on the Central Coast for 60 years.

Selling Today’s Fresh Eggs Today A SPECIAL INVITATION Take a walk down memory lane with David Williamson, proprietor of The Egg Shed while he talks about the history of the farm at A SPECIAL 2020 SENIORS FESTIVAL EVENT Central Coast Family History Society’s Colonial Cuisine Join in our NSW Seniors Festival throughout February to celebrate the important roles our seniors play in our community.

Over 100 exciting activities are planned across the Central Coast including fitness classes, creative workshops, technology classes, performances, exhibitions, markets, tours, talks, nutrition, and health and wellbeing classes.

Pick up your full program of events from your local 50+ Leisure & Learning Centre, Senior Centre or local library.

A full program can also be found online at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/seniorsfestival

Lions Community Hall, 3/8 Russell Drysdale Street, East Gosford Sat 15 February 2020: 9.00am - 2.30pm Bookings preferred: Phone the history Society on 4324 5164

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2020 SENIORS FEST

FEATURE 29 Seniors Expo 2020 Join us at the Seniors Expo 2020 to discover a range of services available on the Central Coast. Gather valuable information from a variety of stallholders and hear from key presenters on topics related to positive aging.

Thursday 13 February 2020 10am – 2pm Wyong Race Club and Function Centre 71-73 Howarth St, Wyong, NSW 2259 For more information visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/seniorsexpo Morning tea provided.

BOOK EARLY: Get free entry and a choc-top at Avoca Beach Picture Theatre.

Picture: Contributed

That’s great to hear BETTER Hearing Australia Central Coast Inc. is Avoca Beach Picture Theatre, NSW Seniors Festival sponsor.

The Central Coast branch of Better Hearing Australia (BHACC) has been operating as a not-for-profit association for 40 years, assisting the hearing-impaired with hearing management classes.

These classes include

learning to lip read, advocacy and social support.

Better Hearing is totally manned by volunteers with the exception of the part-time office manager.

In the past four years, BHACC has sponsored a captioned movie in Seniors Week at Avoca Beach Picture Theatre. Three have been funded by a NSW State grant

and one funded by BHACC, which promotes the frequent screening of captioned movies.

Be early and ensure you are among the first 100 attending the show and, if you are, you will receive free entry to the movie and also a choc-top icecream.

For event enquiries, please contact Jeannine Asciak on 0438 926 927.

Your rights.

Your voice.

Seniors Rights Service provides free, confidential advocacy, advice, education and legal services in New South Wales.

Free and confidential Legal | Aged Care Advocacy | Education

1800 424 079 www.seniors rights service.org.au

Seniors Rights Service Limited | ABN 98 052 960 862 | ACN 626 676 533 V1 - SECE01Z01MA

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2020 NSW FESTIVAL

Premier’s Gala Concerts A CONVOY of retirement village buses will be heading to Sydney to celebrate the 2020 NSW Seniors Festival.

The star-studded Premier’s Gala Concerts are a major highlight and are free to all Seniors.

The concerts will be held on Thursday, February 13, and Friday, February 14, at First State Super Theatre, ICC Sydney in Darling Harbour.

Four concerts will be held across two days at 11.15am and 2.45pm each day.

Performers include John Paul Young, Vanessa Amorosi, Paulini, Alfie Arcuri and Lorenzo Rositano.

Undoubtedly one of the most popular Australian artists of the 1970s, John Paul Young will be serenading seniors at the 2020 Premier’s Gala Concerts.

John regularly lit up the stage on Countdown. His easy-going, boyish personality made him a favourite with fans.

His music was the soundtrack for the Countdown

generation, with major hits such as The Love Game, I Hate The Music, I Wanna Do It With You, Standing In The Rain and of course his #1 song, Love Is In The Air. John has over four million record sales, and was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2009.

Vanessa is one of Australia’s most loved artists of the 21st century. Her songwriting chops and dynamic vocal range have seen her sell over two million records worldwide.

Vanessa has released four acclaimed albums and received 16 ARIA and APRA nominations. She stopped the world in its tracks with Absolutely Everybody at the Sydney 2000 Olympics and released such era defining singles as Shine, Have A Look, Mr Mysterious and This Is Who I Am. Vanessa is back in the limelight in 2019 with her new album Back to Love.

Paulini has been heralded as one of the finest vocalists and performers to come out

of Australia. The Fijian-born songstress rose to fame through television screens on the very first season of Australian Idol.

Paulini rose to prominence on the top of the Australian ARIA Charts in 2004 with her debut Platinum album One Determined Heart. She is still one of only 10 Australian female solo artists to have a #1 album debut on the ARIA Charts.

Paulini played the lead role as Rachel Marron in the The Bodyguard Musical in 2017. This was closely followed by roles in the Saturday Night Fever Musical and 50th Anniversary of Hair the Musical.

Most recently, Paulini was revealed as the SPIDER on the first season of The Masked Singer Australia.

Distinctively emotive, soul-inspired pop singer/ songwriter Alfie Arcuri hit the mainstream after being crowned the winner of The Voice in 2016.

Since winning the show, Alfie has headlined some of

the biggest national television events including State of Origin, Channel Nine’s Carols by Candlelight and most recently SBS’ Eurovision - Australia Decides.

His first single If They Only Knew released in July 2017 has already in excess of 3.5 million streams across all platforms and second self-penned track Love is Love headlined as the anthem of the Marriage Equality campaign in 2017.

Lorenzo is a powerful and passionate opera singer. An operatic tenor, Lorenzo’s repertoire ranges from popular musical theatre songs to operatic arias and traditional Neapolitan classics.

Lorenzo is known for his work in the internationally renowned group, The Australian Tenors. He also appears regularly on Australian television and performed in the 2018 Australia Day Concert, live from the Sydney Opera House.

Tickets are available via Ticketek until booked out.

John Paul Young is undoubtedly one of the most popular Australian artists of the 1970s, and will be serenading seniors at the 2020 Premier's Gala Concerts.

Picture: file

Tickets can be booked online at ticketek.com.au/seniorsfestivalopens in new window or by phone at 1300 130 613. If booking by phone, please be patient and expect lengthy delays.

Seniors are welcome to

ask friends or family to book their tickets online on their behalf.

There is a maximum of four tickets per person, per concert. A last minute release of tickets will take place in late January 2020.

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2020 NSW SENIORS FESTIVAL

Merger boosts client options BRAND INSIGHTS A THIRD not-for-profit home and community care provider recently joined the ADSSI Limited group.

Beresfield & District Community Care (BCC) is the latest organisation to merge in the changing community disability and aged care sectors.

The merger of Beresfield Community Care with ADSSI Limited, trading as Maitland Community Care Services (MCCS), and Central Coast/ Northern Sydney-based ADSSI In-home Support, came into effect on January 1, 2020.

“Our shared values were the catalyst to create this opportunity,’’ chief executive officer Jenni Allan said.

“By combining our expertise and resources, we are stronger and better able to remain competitive in the deregulated marketplace.

“Importantly, we will be

OUR SHARED VALUES WERE THE CATALYST TO CREATE THIS OPPORTUNITY.

BY COMBINING OUR EXPERTISE AND RESOURCES, WE ARE STRONGER. able to offer our clients more services and greater choice as we expand.’’

In total, the three organisations have more than 100 years’ experience in delivering aged and disability community care services and programs.

The combined entity, ADSSI Limited, is a $17 million not-forprofit business, employing hundreds of local staff across the three sites, and supporting about 16,000 people to remain living independently in their home and community.

In addition, almost 200 volunteers support the staff and clients.

For clients, it will be busi-

ness as usual as the same local staff and volunteers continue to support the frail aged and people living with disability.

Each business unit will retain its name and brand identity, with BCC continuing to trade as Beresfield Community Care in its local area.

The community will continue to have access to practical support including domestic assistance, linen, respite, transport, social support, lawns and gardens, home modifications and maintenance, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, Meals on Wheels, home care packages and NDIS support.

Clients will also continue to benefit from a wide range of wellbeing programs including falls prevention and gentle exercise classes.

For more information, visit our website, adssilimited .com.au, or phone us on 1300 578 478 to find out how we can help.

FLEXIBLE HELP: Carers can take a break thanks to ADSSI’s respite service.

Picture: Contributed

“Aged care to get an extra $537m, most to be spent on 10,000 home-care packages” Scott Morrison says new measures are initial response to royal commission interim report

Do you need one of the new 10,000 home-care packages?

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Call 131 878 or visit avjennings.com.au Disclamer: Prices stated are subject to availability. Additional costs for stamp duty, utility connections, statutory requirements may be incurred pending location of property. Images are indicative only. All descriptions have been prepared in good faith and with due care however may be subject to change without notice at any time. Purchasers should inform and assure themselves by inspection, independent advice or as otherwise necessary prior to purchase. No liability for negligence or otherwise is assumed by AVJennings Properties Limited or its related entities. ŽRegistered Trademark. ŠAVJennings Properties Limited. ABN 50 004 601 503. Builders Licence 39168C.

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This is like the seaside you used to know before coastal developments meant high-rises BEACHFRONT BLISS: The oversized Yeppoon Lagoon is loved by locals and visitors.

Pictures: Contributed

Keppel’s an island paradise Wind down in low-key style Kerry Heaney IT LOOKS like a swim-up infinity pool at a luxury resort, but there’s no entry fee and everyone is welcome to swim, barbecue or relax under the tropical foliage.

On the beachfront in the foreshore precinct, the oversized Yeppoon Lagoon is loved by locals and has visitors sideswiped by its style. I’ll take a lounger overlooking the Keppel Islands here any day.

Battered by Cyclone Marcia in 2015 and bushfires in 2018, Yeppoon has bounced back, capitalising on the area’s natural beauty.

There’s gourmet dining, a range of water-view accommodation and play parks that invite family picnics followed by beach cricket.

This is like the seaside you used to know before coastal centres meant high-rise developments that block the sun on the sand, and more time in traffic jams than surfing. It is the sort of place where relaxation comes with a proper intake of a sea breeze.

I took a 30-minute drive from Rockhampton City to

Yeppoon,stopping at Emu Park to see the awardwinning Centenary of Anzac Memorial Walk. It tells moving stories about Gallipoli, the Anzac legend, the Somme and other extraordinary war campaigns, highlighted by silhouettes of soldiers and horses overlooking the shoreline.

Public art is a constant throughout Emu Park and Yeppoon, so look out for street art in carparks, laneways, surf lifesaving clubs and roadside walls.

Wreck Point Lookout is another scenic stop, providing 380-degree views of Keppel Bay and the Capricorn Coast and a walking trail down to the rocky point.

There are more headland views at Rosslyn Bay Resort, which overlooks Kemp Beach. Surrounded by harbour, hinterland and headland, the resort is also home to Beaches Restaurant, which serves owner Ross O’Reilly’s locally grown organic produce from the High Valley Dawn permaculture farm.

Before you jump on the ferry to Great Keppel Island at Keppel Bay Marina, enjoy

Eye-catching art abounds at Emu Park.

a meal at award-winning restaurant The Waterline.

The beef here comes from the owner’s central Queensland cattle properties. For breakfast try the Cowboys Benedict with Banana Station rib fillet, smoked belly bacon and a poached egg with blackbean tomato salsa. Now that will set you up for the day!

If you are wearing shoes, you are definitely

overdressed at Great Keppel Island Hideaway. Even thongs are optional at this low-key island paradise. It doesn’t have and doesn’t need a pool or spa because you’ll be spending your time on the beach or in the water.

Instead, I hitched a boat ride to an isolated beach on a tropical island.

Floating in the crystalclear water watching the clouds float by, it is easy to

imagine life as Robinson Crusoe on Great Keppel Island.

A joy flight with Rockhampton Helicopters will show you the island, and the coastline has many more beautiful spots to explore.

Find out more from capricornholidays.com.au.

– The writer visited as a guest of Capricorn Enterprise.

A delicious picnic treat from Great Keppel Island Hideaway.

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10 reasons to love Lake Macquarie

1. LAKE MACQUARIE SAND ISLANDS

Lake Macquarie’s sand islands are a firm favourite with the locals and it’s easy to see why. With pristine white sand and turquoise water, you can explore by boat or choose to swim.

2. CAVES BEACH

Iconic Caves Beach, with its extensive network of sea caves and rock pools, is ideal for low-tide exploration.

Crawl through tight holes, hang out in shady caves or sun yourself on the beach’s sandy shores.

3. SPEERS POINT PARK The kids won’t want to leave award-winning Speers Point Park, often referred to as Australia’s best play space because of its fantastic flying fox, water-play zones, bike paths and climbing frames.

4. MAC

Museum of Art and Culture (MAC) is home to an impressive collection of travelling and permanent exhibitions.

After undergoing a $2.3 million transformation this year, MAC is a cultural hotspot.

5. GAP CREEK FALLS, WATAGAN MOUNTAINS

The Watagan Mountains are well known, but many visitors are unaware of the stunning Gap Creek Falls hidden in the rainforest.

These striking falls are accessible for keen hikers via the spectacular Gap Creek Falls Trail.

6. BELMONT BATHS

Belmont Baths is the perfect spot for lazy laps or a swim during a sunny weekend.

The baths boast a new jetty, a netted swimming area, a

new amenities block and change rooms.

7. CREATIVE LAKE

Creative LAKE sculpture trail contains several unique artworks including a bronze sky pig, a young monk, a dinghy and a granite hibiscus. Each of the artworks can be discovered in popular foreshores.

8. REDHEAD BEACH

Redhead Beach is renowned for its red, rocky headland, iconic shark tower and timber boardwalk. This pretty beach features Cargo Espresso Bar.

9. FLOAT YOUR BOAT Every June, dozens of boats light up the night skies and calm waters of Lake Macquarie during Float Your Boat – an event where boat owners are encouraged to decorate their vessels in lights and take part in a parade around the lake.

10. WARNERS BAY

Walk or cycle the 9km Warner’s Bay foreshore shared pathway, or take it easy and roll up for a lazy lunch at one of The Esplanade’s many cafes.

For more details see visitlakemac.com.au.

PERFECT PLAYGROUND: Lake Macquarie's sand islands are a firm favourite with the locals and it's easy to see why.

Picture: Contributed

14 Day Hidden Secrets Of Tasmania

Departing: Saturday 22nd February 2020 *Gordon River Cruise $4450 pp *Salamanca Markets *Port Arthur twin share *Arthur River Cruise *Cradle Mountain Plus More!

day tours January:

7th — Welcome in the new year $80 15th - Tocal Homestead $93 28th—Fighter world & Buffet lunch $95

6 Day Easter Beechworth Getaway

February: 12th - Nepean Belle Paddle Wheeler $90

Departing: Thursday 9th April 2020

*Beechworth Golden Horseshoe Festival *Bright *Tumbarumba *Boggy Creek Show * Yarrawonga Plus More!

18th - Camden Country Tour $90

$1499 pp twin share

*Central Deborah Mine * Fleurieu Peninsula *Mouth of the Murray Cruise Plus SO much more!

March: 13th —St Patricks Day Celebrations $105

Multiple pickup locations across the Central Coast.

15 Day Kangaroo Island, Bendigo & Adelaide Departing: Sunday 26th April 2020

Call Now for a FREE holiday book with plenty of holidays & day tours to choose from!

$4300 pp twin share

Our 2020 Day Tour brochure is now available! Including Cockatoo Island, Bingo Afloat, Dolly Parton Musical

Holiday inclusions:

& MORE!!

Telephone: 02 4325 8000 Under New Management Shop 5A Gosford Central Plaza 153 Mann Street GOSFORD 2250 www.itseasytours.com.au

Home pick-up for Central Coast on 3 day or more holidays, 5 star coach travel with professional and informative coach captain / guide.

Quality motel accommodation, 2 course dinners, full cooked breakfast and all entry fees, attractions and cruises as per each itinerary.

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HOME to the largest coastal saltwater lake in the southern hemisphere and with more than 30 kilometres of pristine coastline, Lake Macquarie is one of the east coast’s hidden treasures.

Just 90 minutes north of Sydney, it offers something for everyone, whether you’re an outdoorsy type, history buff or simply seeking relaxation.

And with the new year here, what better reason to get out and explore?

Twenty reasons to put Lake Macquarie at the top of your 2020 holiday list are:

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IN BRIEF Newcomer charting course for key regions Cruise & Maritime Voyages (CMV) has welcomed Vasco da Gama into Sydney as she began her first Australasian season.

The ship’s inaugural season coincides with CMV’s 10th anniversary this year and marks the cruise line’s largest Australasian deployment yet. Vasco da Gama has a 1220-guest capacity and will home port in Adelaide and Fremantle, also cruising from London (Tilbury), Auckland and Singapore in addition to Sydney. The ship offers two pools, the well-equipped Jade Wellness Centre and Spa, a two-tiered theatre, and five inviting bars and lounges. Six dining venues feature cuisine from around the world and the Chef’s Table provides a degustation menu plus an insight into the workings of the galley.

During Vasco da Gama’s first Australasian season, the cruise line will champion domestic tourism by making key regions such as Tasmania, the northwest of Australia and the Yorke

Peninsula (South Australia) more accessible and more affordable. In the ship’s 2020-21 season, CMV will make compelling domestic destinations even more accessible to Australians, visiting ports of call that are new to the cruise line, such as Darwin, Geelong and Port Arthur. Info: cmvaustralia.com.

Hue beauty! Catch Japan’s colourful show In 2020 a new cruise tour will enable more Australians to immerse themselves in the rich traditions, colourful customs and inspiring icons that make Japan one of the world’s most vibrant and captivating destinations.

Hosted by Cruise Express, the 19-night Autumn Colours of Japan itinerary in November 2020 will enable guests to join tea ceremonies, learn to make sushi, watch sumo wrestling, meet authentic geishas, ride bullet trains, view iconic Mt Fuji and visit lavish palaces – all backdropped by the colourful hues of autumn.

Departing Australia on November 2, 2020, the escorted tour begins with an eight-night land itinerary starting in Tokyo. Back in

DELIGHTFUL: Japan offers a natural spectacle with its autumn colours.

Tokyo, guests board Princess Cruises’ Diamond Princess for a nine-night, round-trip cruise to five Japanese ports. Including return flights from Australia,

Call our friendly, experienced team to book your next cruise or touring holiday or to join one of Go See Touring’s special group departures.

1300 551 997 | (07) 5513 1086 E: info@goseetouring.com www.goseetouring.com

NORFOLK ISLAND CROQUET From

$2,325*

20 - 27 JUNE 2020

per person Twin Share Ex BNE Single supplement From $570

CHRISTMAS IN JULY NORFOLK ISLAND From

$2,095*

Go See Touring invites players & spectators to join us on Norfolk Island in June 2020 for the 6th Convict’s Cup Social Croquet event.

This is a social golf croquet doubles event and it doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or an expert - it’s all about having fun. You’ll play on the oldest sporting pitch in the Southern hemisphere that is still in use. With stunning Norfolk Island as the backdrop to this week of friendly competition, there will be sightseeing, lots of fun and laughter! We hope you can join us!

11 - 18 JULY 2020

Want to enjoy the festive season twice this year? Spend a week on Norfolk Island with its stunning scenery, sandy beaches and jagged cliffs. There is so much to see and do – and all at your own pace. We’ve included some great accommodation options, a hire car so you can explore, some fabulous tours that you won’t want to miss, plus plenty more to do on the Island. Enjoy a festive delicious Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings, fun trivia and Carols at Paradise Hotel & Resort. Chase away those winter blues and have some fun. Call us now to secure your accommodation.

per person Twin Share Ex BNE Single supplement From $495

NORFOLK ISLAND A LITTLE BIT COUNTRY ESCORTED EX BRISBANE From

SENIORS

per person Twin Share Ex BNE

$2,995* Single supplement $340

the Autumn Colours of Japan cruise tour is available from $9790 a person, twinshare – a saving of $200 a person if booked by January 14. Info: www.cruiseexpress.com.au.

Faroe Islands surprise Explore the Faroe Islands on Odyssey Traveller’s fully escorted, small-group tour designed for mature travellers. The tour gives you chance to visit some of the islands’ most stunning sights and to explore the capital, Torshavn, while discovering the interesting history of the Faroes and the unique culture. Only a short flight from Scotland, the Faroes are off most standard travellers’ radars. Yet, for the tourists who do find their

way there, the Faroe Islands offer breathtaking natural landscapes, rugged terrain, verdant green pastures and jaw-dropping cliffs and waterfalls to explore. During the four-day tour, guests will be based in Torshavn and travel to parts of the archipelago including the villages of Gasadalur, Vestmanna, Kirkjubour and Gjogv. This allows you to explore all corners of this beautiful collection of islands, taking in the epic coastline, magnificent sea cliffs and colourful scenery.

Info: https://www.odyssey traveller.com/tours/faroeislands-tour/.

Seal of approval amid Icelandic wilderness Odyssey Traveller’s

Picture: Contributed

Iceland cultural and wilderness small-group tour is a 16-day circumnavigation of the fascinating island and is designed for mature-age or senior travellers. During the tour, experience Iceland’s spectacular landscapes filled with glaciers, geysers and waterfalls, as you cruise among arctic icebergs. at great destinations such as Vatnajokull National Park, At Illugastadir, spot seals from the coast. The escorted guided tours offer fresh insights into the history of Iceland. Odyssey’s adventure tours to Iceland are suitable for most fitness levels. Info: https://www .odysseytraveller.com/ tours/faroe-islands-tour/.

18 - 25 JULY 2020

Join Fortunato Isgro or Lindsay (Waddo) Waddington for a fantastic week on Norfolk Island of Songs and laughter! A Little Bit Country on Norfolk Island 2020 sees a great line-up of performers taking to the stage.

Graeme Hugo, Fortunato Isgro, Wayne Horsburgh and Lindsay (Waddo) Waddington will all perform at 3 big shows during the week. Plus plenty of time for you to enjoy beautiful Norfolk Island with its colourful history, lush greenery, stunning scenery and friendly locals. Enjoy delicious cuisine, tours, time to shop and explore and plenty of laughs along the way. Call us for more information!

20 - 27 JULY 2020 SENSATIONAL SINGAPORE Join us when we visit the bi-annual world premier tropical garden WITH SINGAPORE GARDEN FESTIVAL and flower show - the 2020 Singapore Garden Festival. The festival showcases colourful and exciting garden designs with exquisite floral displays from over 50 designers and 19 countries.

ESCORTED EX BRISBANE

$4,745*

per person Twin Share Ex BNE Single supplement $1,380

During the tour you’ll also visit the Botanic Gardens, National Orchid Gardens, have breakfast at the zoo, high tea at the iconic Raffles Hotel, visit the National Museum plus experience the exciting sights and sounds of Sentosa Island. Leisure time to explore further afield, shop ‘til you drop or lay by the pool. We’d love to have you with us when we travel to this beautiful multicultural city and its fabulous gardens. Space is limited.

BELLA ITALIA HOSTED BY FORTUNATO ISGRO From

Per person Twin Share

BNE, Single $995 $10,950* exsupplement

MAGICAL COOK ISLANDS HOSTED BY LYNNE & GRAEME HUGO

From

$3,995*

Per person Twin Share ex BNE, Single Supplement $980

15 SEPTEMBER - 06 OCTOBER 2020

You are invited to join entertainer Fortunato on his much-anticipated ‘Bella Italia’ tour, where you will experience 22 days of incredible history, culture, food and scenic landscapes within central and southern Italy all whilst enjoying wonderful entertainment from your renowned host. Fortunato is particularly excited to also take you to Sicily and the Aeolian Islands where his family originates, to bring you an authentic experience that you will never forget.

You don’t want to miss out on this stress-free holiday with Fortunato and his family. Contact us for more fabulous details.

30 OCTOBER - 07 NOVEMBER 2020

You are invited to join entertainer Graeme Hugo & Lynne for a trip of a lifetime to the beautiful Cook Islands.

Experience the authentic colourful local culture, swim in crystal clear tropical waters, enjoy delicious local cuisine, informative and scenic tours. Located just 6 hours from Australia, we hope you can join us on this trip to paradise.

Please call us to secure your place or for more details.

TERMS & CONDITIONS *Price is per person Twin Share. Single Supplement applies. Credit card surcharges apply. Deposit of AUD $500-$800 per person is required to secure tour. Tour requires a minimum number of passengers to depart. Prices may fluctuate if surcharges, fee, taxes or currency change.

Prices current as at 31st October 2019. Go See Touring in conjunction with Norfolk Select Marketing ABN: 93 367 366 822 ATAS Accreditation A10619

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Cruise & Maritime Voyages has welcomed the Vasco da Gama into Sydney as she began her first Australasian season.

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Camping was never so good THE wow factor hits the moment we hear that familiar unzipping sound, then peel back the wide cream flaps and step inside.

This is certainly not the camping I know. This is luxe glamping.

We have arrived at The Hideaway Cabarita Beach.

Our Plush Deluxe room (it could never be classified as a “tent”) is more like a bohemian boudoir.

And there’s more space than most hotel rooms we’ve stayed in.

A quick glance reveals a king-size bed, bamboo/ rattan/cane styling in occasional furniture pieces and a huge funky circular floor rug.

We try to take it all in: the comfy pillows, designer cushions, lounge, director’s chairs with casual table, lamps on bedside tables, mini-fridge with glass bottle of water, and towel rack with fluffy towels.

Outside on the grassy front lawn is a rustic scene we’ve already earmarked for sunset drinks: two squatter chairs beside a sturdy beach umbrella and “stump” table.

We found everything laid out before us on a guided tour of the pet-free and smoke-free resort.

There’s not even a set of keys to lose: just walk away (an on-site manager keeps an eye on things during the day and a security guard patrols the resort at night for your peace of mind).

And if you’re staying longer than three nights, the room will be serviced every fourth day.

New owners Cath and Adam Smith, born-and-bred Tweed region locals, wanted to create something special they could be proud of that was in keeping with the

casual beachside lifestyle and draw people from all over Australia – if not the world – for a no-fuss, restful holiday or mini-break.

The Hideaway Cabarita Beach idea is all about helping guests relax, recharge and rejuvenate.

It’s small-scale: capped by the owners at 23 rooms, catering for a maximum of 58 guests on the 4000sq m (one-acre) site.

The rooms come in three sizes: the 6m Plush Deluxe includes a king-size bed; the 6m Bigger/Family Suites have a queen-size bed and a single bed either side; and the 5m Classic has a queensize bed (the mattresses are made by the company that produces the much-lauded Koala beds – firm but oh-so comfortable, and quality linen is supplied).

They offer everything to love about camping (fresh air, sounds of nature, open spaces, night skies, relaxed living and the novelty of sleeping under canvas) but minimise everything to hate about camping (too uncomfortable, too noisy, too many people, no privacy, too far away from the action, too dirty, too much equipment to pack and lug in then repack and take home).

In fact, The Hideaway is more like a hotel in the great outdoors than an old-style campground, in an idyllic beachside community.

There’s plenty of living space within and surrounding the bell structures, which are akin to traditional Himalayan and Mongolian homes and feel like you’re sleeping under a circus Big Top. The waterproof cotton canvas is highly soundproof.

Repurposed shipping containers have created a reception area, wellmaintained toilets and toilet/

‘‘

Guests relax, recharge and rejuvenate.

SPOIL YOURSELF: The Plush Deluxe room at The Hideaway Cabarita Beach is more like a bohemian boudoir.

Pictures: Shirley Sinclair

showers and laundry, as well as a barbecue/bar area and a kitchen/dining/chill-out zone with children’s play area. The communal areas – especially the long dining tables, lounge, barbecue, fire pit and picnic tables – as well as twinkling lights overhead all add to the fun holiday atmosphere.

The owners encourage guests to “enjoy Cabarita” and all the restaurants, cafes and businesses providing meals, snacks, drinks, takeaways and supplies.

What else could you want for a hassle-free break in your own little sanctuary, but still with the joys only camping can offer?

— The writer was a guest of The Hideaway Cabarita Beach.

Looking for an Australian holiday with a difference.

Join our accommodated soft adventure 4WD holidays for over 50’s, See unique destinations not seen by conventional vehicles.

The view from Cabarita Beach Surf Life Saving Club’s veranda.

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Norries Headland captures stunning 360-degree views.

Bookings • Tel 0428 083 192 Email office@echidnatravel.com.au www.echidnatravel.com.au

7108929aa

Shirley Sinclair

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Add magical Mykonos to bucket list Make 2020 the year to enjoy everything on offer FROM its whitewashed buildings, cobbled streets, world-famous sunsets, delicious seafood and lively local tavernas, not to mention luxurious boutique accommodation, glamorous beach clubs and genuine Greek hospitality – there’s a raft of reasons to tick Mykonos – and the Myconian Collection – off your travel bucket list in 2020.

Here are 10 reasons why you should treat yourself to a taste of Mykonos: 1. Getting there is easy Thanks to new direct flights from Sydney to Mykonos (via Doha) with Qatar Airways, Australian travellers can now start their Greek getaway in record time. Trade the Australian winter for a gorgeous Greek summer between June and August; or visit during May or September to “live like a local” and avoid the crowds.

2. Food, glorious (Greek) food Food is a serious business at the Myconian Collection Hotels & Resorts. Blending the skills of internationally trained executive chefs with fresh ingredients sourced exclusively for the hotels

through time-honoured ties with farmers and fishermen nurtured by the hotel group’s founding family, the Daktylides.

The farm-to-table philosophy is alive and well in Mykonos. The Myconian Collection chefs are committed to encouraging guests to experience authentic Mykonos through its cuisine, including lamb and pork hand-reared on Daktylides family land, locally-grown herbs and vegetables, and the island’s best octopus, caught just for the Myconian Collection by one of the island’s most iconic fisherman.

There are more than a dozen distinctive restaurants across the Myconian Collection portfolio of boutique hotels, many boasting spectacular ocean views. Must-visit restaurants for your 2020 bucket list include: Cabbanes at the Myconian Villa Collection; Panorama at Myconian Avaton; and Pavilion - Relais & Chateaux at the Myconian Utopia.

3. Explore ancient history Offering a fascinating contrast to Mykonos’s

Lap up the luxury in the stylish accommodation.

cosmopolitan vibe, the nearby island of Delos – feted as the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis – was once at the heart of ancient Greek life as a hub for religious pilgrims, trade and multiculturalism.

These days, Delos is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to intriguing ruins that are a must-see when staying on Mykonos.

Myconian Collection guests can join a day trip to Delos aboard a private yacht to explore the island’s statues, preserved houses and temples – all with the expert insights of an experienced tour guide.

4. Experience laidback luxury Mykonos has become a magnet for cosmopolitan travellers who flock to enjoy the island’s unique brand of laidback luxury. Having evolved from its “partyisland” past, today Mykonos attracts couples, families and groups of friends lured by the island’s blissful beaches, crystal-clear waters, stunning sunsets, unique Greek hospitality, delectable dining and new breed of boutique hotel accommodation – such as

Picture: Contributed

BETTER BY DESIGN: Boutique hotels for those who like to be closer to the action include Myconian Kyma, a member of Design Hotels.

Picture: Contributed

the gorgeous guest-house style villas at the Myconian Villa Collection.

5. Hit the beach From a privileged position above Elia Beach on the southern coastline of worldfamous Mykonos reside five Myconian Collection properties: Myconian Utopia Resort Relais & Châteaux; Myconian Avaton Resort a member of Design Hotels; Myconian Villa Collection, Preferred Hotels & Resorts, Legend Collection; Myconian Imperial Resort and Royal Myconian Resort, both eminent members of the Leading Hotels of the World.

Guests can enjoy access to a pristine, private stretch of beach complete with bar service for snacks and creative cocktails – all served to your sunbed.

6. Join the jet-set South of Elia Beach live like the rich and famous on Mykonos’s stunning south coast, home to a chic, cosmopolitan crowd, luxury yachts galore, fabulous fivestar dining and perfect people-watching on the famous beaches of Psarou and Scorpios.

Stay at the Myconian Ambassador Relais & Châteaux for panoramic views and easy access to the best-known beaches.

Myconian Kyma offers picture-postcard views of the alluring crystal-clear water.

Picture: Contributed

7. Get lost in the laneways of Mykonos Town The labyrinth-like cobbled streets of Mykonos Town are made for getting lost.

Designed to be chaotic in order to confuse pillaging pirates, it’s easy to lose a day or two meandering through boutiques, discovering tiny churches, lingering at local cafes, dining at traditional tavernas, exploring Little Venice, and watching the fishing boats come and go at Alefkandra harbour.

Boutique hotels for those who like to be closer to the action include: Myconian Kyma, a member of Design Hotels; Myconian Naia Luxury Suites, Preferred Hotels & Resorts, LXV Collection and the Myconian Korali Relais & Châteaux.

8. Genuine Greek hospitality Authentic Greek hospitality is at the heart of the Myconian Collection, where guests are often personally welcomed by members of the founding Daktylides family in a tradition which began with the family’s first hotel back in 1979.

Staff at the Myconian Collection’s nine boutique properties provide warm, discreet, attentive service and take the time to discover your preferences and personal experiences.

9. Sensational sunsets It’s little wonder guests flock to the water’s edge to experience the stunning sunsets, and the Myconian Avaton enjoys a prime SECE01Z01MA - V1

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Having evolved from its “party-island” past, today Mykonos attracts couples, families and groups of friends looking for the holiday of a lifetime .

Picture: Contributed

‘‘

The labyrinth-like cobbled streets of Mykonos Town are made for getting lost.

position.

The hotel’s two-tier infinity pool lights up when the sun goes down, creating

an alluring ambience for sharing post-sunset cocktails and canapes in serious style.

10. Serious specials – save now on 2020 stays Book your Mykonos getaway to stay between May and October 2020 to enjoy a complimentary buffet breakfast, one complimentary Thalassotherapy spa treatment per person per stay, complimentary shared transfers and free wi-fi.

Source: myconiancollection.com

Imagine yourself lying back and relaxing in the shade with a cold drink and a good book on a Myconian outdoor lounge.

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You’ll never go hungry with the wide variety of quality food available in the boutique hotels throughout Mykonos.

Picture: Contributed

Mykonos has become a magnet for cosmopolitan travellers who flock to enjoy the island’s unique brand of laidback luxury.hotels.

Picture: Contributed

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SIGHTS TO BEHOLD: Arthurs Seat Eagle surveying the Mornington Peninsula coastline from the sky.

A Mornington vacation doesn’t cost a fortune YOU don’t need to spend an arm and a leg to enjoy a day out in one of Victoria’s most beautiful coastal regions.

Enjoy an abundance of easily accessible and affordable activities on the Mornington Peninsula this summer. Here’s a selection of experiences around the Mornington Peninsula for seniors to uncover for under $100.

9am – Start the day at The Briars Park.

The Briars Park is rich in history and natural beauty with a wildlife sanctuary, heritage homestead, nursery and Eco-Living Display Centre, as well as walking trails, eateries and interesting artefacts to discover.

The Briars Visitor Centre is a great place to start for a comprehensive overview of the best spots to take in.

Easily accessible walking trails include the Wetland Walk (300m) and the Balcombe Creek Walkway (800m), which feature comfortable

Get up close and personal with wildlife on the Mornington Peninsula.

boardwalks and a number of “bird hides’’ for spotting wildlife along the way.

Price: Free.

Open Daily.

Located: Nepean Highway, Mt. Martha.

Contact: mornpen .vic.gov.au.

10am – Next stop, Arthurs Seat Eagle.

Soar from the Dromana base station to the summit and take in the best views of the Mornington Peninsula region and across Port Phillip Bay to the city skyline. On board the Eagle’s aerial gondolas, some

Picture: Contributed

of the best photo opportunities can be found in brilliant shades of blue with the backdrop of native bushland. Open seven days a week, Arthurs Seat Eagle is a little over one hour’s drive from Melbourne.

Everyone has a space at the

Eagle: the entire site is wheelchair friendly with accessible gondolas and car parking. At the base, awardwinning restrooms cater for visitors with disabilities and mobility limitations (named Best Accessible Toilet in 2017

by MyTravelResearch.com,

which runs the inaugural International Toilet Tourism Awards).

The area surrounding The Eagle offers beautiful nature walks in state parkland, with gentle slopes and spectacular lookouts. Grab some scones and tea at The Eagle Cafe, open daily from 10am, and enjoy the most stunning views.

Keep an eye on the website for seniors’ events such as Devonshire tea specials running at different times of the year.

Seniors Card price: Return ticket $21 a person.

Scones and tea: $10 a person.

Open: Daily.

Located: 795 Arthurs Seat Rd, Arthurs Seat.

Contact: aseagle.com.au.

Midday – Explore Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery.

This is one of Australia’s leading regional art galleries, embracing traditional and contemporary art with yearround exhibitions.

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State-of-the-art skin checks BRAND INSIGHTS DID you know that skin cancers account for 80 per cent of all newly diagnosed cancers, with two in three Australians diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they are 70?

Although more than 90 per cent of skin cancers are due to overexposure to UV light, some are caused by chemical exposure or are hereditary.

More than 2000 Australians die from skin cancer each year.

Have you had your skin checked lately? If it’s time you sought professional advice, Skinetics Skin Cancer Clinic represents a wise option.

About Skinetics Skin Cancer Clinic The company is a privatebilling, purpose-built skin cancer clinic dedicated to providing the highest level of patient care to the Central Coast community and surrounding regions.

Our skilled doctors and nurses have extensive experience and advanced training in skin cancer medicine in order to provide quality care to our patients.

We specialise in a comprehensive approach to skin with preventive skin cancer care, expert diagnostic dermoscopy skills highlighting artificial intelligent analytics, and definitive surgical and medical treatments of skin cancers. We welcome you to “virtually” walk through our clinic at www.Skinetics.clinic.

Meet Our Team At Skinetics Skin Cancer Clinic, our highly qualified administrative staff, nurses and doctors are an integral part of the team, ensuring excellent clinical care is provided to our patients.

We currently have five experienced local doctors: Dr Julie Yeadon, BMed,

FRACGP, Diploma Skin Cancer Medicine/Surgery, Diploma Aesthetic Medicine.

Dr Dionne Bolla, BMed, FRACGP, Diploma Skin Cancer Medicine/Surgery.

Dr Heather Zimmerman, MBBS, FRACGP. Dr David Parker, MBBS (Syd), Dip Law. Dr Liz Birkby, MBBS (Hons), FRACGP, Cert. Skin Cancer Medicine.

Early detection of skin cancers is vital for the best outcome. Skinetics has invested in technology and research to provide the latest diagnostic services and treatments to meet the needs of our patients.

Professional Skin Services On Offer Advanced Skin Cancer Detection: Top-to-toe fullbody skin checks are performed using dermoscopy and technology to minimise unnecessary excisions.

Mole Mapping and Full Body Photography: Artificial intelligence-powered platform DermEngine is used to take images of individual moles or the whole body and can identify changes to the skin over time and support early clinical decisions and diagnosis.

MoleMate Skin Imaging System: High-quality images are captured using SIAscopy, a clinically proven technology that provides information from up to 2mm beneath the skin’s surface, allowing deeper assessment of the risk of melanoma.

Purpose-built Skin Cancer Facility Surgical procedures are performed in two dedicated, fully equipped theatres and staffed by experienced skin cancer nurses.

Large Referral Base Patients may require referral for their skin cancer treatment, including radiotherapy for cosmetically

EXPERT SCREENING: The latest technology along with dedicated doctors gives you your best chance of detection.

WE SPECIALISE IN A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO SKIN WITH PREVENTIVE SKIN CANCER CARE AND EXPERT DIAGNOSTIC DERMOSCOPY SKILLS. sensitive areas that are not optimally treated with surgery, advanced care under the melanoma unit or MOHs surgery.

Priority Spot Checks Appointments are set aside every day for urgent suspicious lesions, allowing for quick evaluation, whether for an existing or new patient.

Although we welcome GP referrals, they are not required.

GP Team Approach

An integrated team approach to a patient’s skin cancer care is important, and communication of histological results and findings are shared with their GP upon permission.

Pain Minimisation Topical numbing creams and numbing agents are available to minimise tenderness that can come with local anaesthetics.

Our theatres are equipped with overhead projectors playing calming nature scenes to ensure outpatients are comfortable.

Specialised Treatments Surgical Procedures Our doctors are proficient in surgical procedures, from simple diagnostic biopsies or elliptical excisions to advanced procedures, including skin grafts and surgical flap repair,

all under a local anaesthetic.

Surgitron RadioFrequency Procedures Surgical options include using a radiosurgical device for scalpel-free procedures.

It allows our doctors to use radiowaves instead of scalpels to provide advanced skin cancer surgery or cosmetic procedures, ensuring minimal thermal tissue damage, bleeding and recovery time, thus enhancing the cosmetic outcome.

Margin-Controlled Surgery Skin cancer wounds are not closed after excision until clearance of the tumour is known.

This can minimise the need for larger excisions and potentially benefit cosmetic outcomes, especially in

Picture: Contributed

sensitive regions such as the nose, ears and face.

Non-surgical Treatments and Skin Cancer Preventive Therapy Our goal is to prevent and treat skin cancer in the leastinvasive way possible.

This includes preventive skin care advice, including about vitamin B3 benefits and sun-safe practices; topical therapies, such as liquid nitrogen; and prescriptive therapy for solar keratoses or superficial non-melanoma skin cancers.

Cosmetic Services We offer advice and treatment regarding skin pigmentation, troublesome bumps and lumps and more.

Please see our website, skinetics.clinic, or phone us on 1300 43 2250.

When was your last skin check?

Five Ways Roundabout, Suites 1 & 2, 482 Pacific Highway, North Gosford, NSW 2250 P 1300 43 2250 | E admin@skinetics.clinic | W www.skinetics.clinic V1 - SECE01Z01MA

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• Skinetics engages the latest technology and clinical practices • Offering surgical and non-surgical treatments • Male and Female Doctors • Top to toe examinations • No waiting • If you or someone you know has something on their skin that is growing or changing or just doesn’t look right. It must be checked.

• Ask about our cosmetic treatments • On site parking

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Aged care’s challenge to

CELEBRATING LOVE: Edie Mayhew and Anne Tudor celebrate 33 years together with family and friends in a recommitment ceremony in September 2017, before marrying at their first chance when it became legal in January 2018.

Picture: Courtesy of Anne Tudor

Women share their search for right home

Alison Houston DO PEOPLE who identify as LGBTIQ* need or want their own distinct aged care?

It seemed a reasonable question when the press release arrived late last year announcing Arcare had opened Queensland’s first aged care home for LGBTIQ clients at Parkwood on the Gold Coast.

But research and talking to people affected makes the answer clear – they deserve that choice.

The first clue should have been that the press release hailed the opening as occurring less than 30 years after Queensland decriminalised homosexuality.

Because how does someone who has spent the greater part of their life being vilified, forced to hide part of who they are, facing possible jail or electric shock “cure/conversion

treatments” for their sexuality, find a community they trust in which to grow old?

How can they be themselves without fear, form friendships and have confidence that they or their loved one are receiving quality health care as they age?

The Federal Government has recognised in its LGBTIQ Inclusion and Awareness in Aged Care report that to understand people’s current experiences, including reticence to disclose sexuality or to enter aged care, and higher levels of anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation, we have to understand their past.

LOVE, LIFE AND DEMENTIA: A PERSONAL ACCOUNT It can be as simple, Anne Tudor explained, as feeling comfortable to hug, kiss or hold hands with a loved one – things heterosexual

couples take for granted.

It doesn’t seem much to ask, especially given the heartbreaking position in which Anne has found herself and partner Edie Mayhew.

The couple have traced Edie’s dementia journey in film, and have followed her into residential care showing the pain of separation in the recently released film Mr Velvet Ears.

The title is a reference to Edie’s much-loved care dog, through whose eyes the transition is depicted.

“I miss her brain, her mind, her conversation; I miss her strength,” Anne said of Edie, who was diagnosed with dementia in 2010 at age 59.

She describes the film as “very raw and honest”, filmed on the day of the move, the day before and again three months after Edie went into residential care.

“We have always been

motivated to educate people around dementia, and to encourage people to open their hearts and not be frightened of it, although it is a terrible disease,” Anne said.

“The person you love is still there, but in a changed way.

“We had eight years living together after Edie’s diagnosis, and our lives haven’t finished yet, so it’s about presenting a positive message because there aren’t enough of those out there.”

She hopes the film opens discussions about aspects of dementia care for the LGBTIQ community and the community in general.

“Ours is a beautiful story and we are really lucky to have had such a wonderful relationship,” Anne said.

This is the couple’s fourth film, with Anne and Edie previously celebrating their 33rd anniversary, including their recommitment

ceremony on September 2017, in a film called The Circle of Love for the Victorian Seniors Festival.

“When we got together 33 years ago we kept it pretty quiet,” Anne said of the ceremony.

“It was a very different world back then – you didn’t tell people you were lesbian.

“We were in love – but we’ve never formally celebrated our love with family and friends because we didn’t feel it was OK to do so.

“Now that time is running out for us we want to celebrate with the people we love.”

When two months later Australia voted yes to marriage equality, the pair decided to marry on the first day possible – January 9, 2018.

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break diversity barriers ‘‘

We felt totally embraced and accepted for who we are.

changed reality and a moment in history,” Anne said.

“And to me it was a statement – it didn’t legitimise our relationship, we didn’t need that, but it gives us a legal status so I can’t be overlooked in Edie’s care.

“Those that have had access to marriage for ever don’t appreciate its meaning for people who have had a lifetime together and shared their love but not been able to declare it publicly or have the legal rights associated with it.”

THE SEARCH FOR INCLUSIVE CARE Things have changed a lot for Anne and Edie since then, and in September 2018 Anne said it became clear she couldn’t cope alone with Edie’s care anymore.

She had a lot of questions in her search to find the best residential care, including LGBTIQ training for staff.

Ultimately they decided on Mercy Place, where the CEO told Anne at the inspection: “I’d like you to treat this as your home too.’’

“We felt totally embraced and accepted for who we are,” Anne said, despite the home not being specifically for LGBTIQ residents.

Aged care and nursing home staff everywhere should now all have LGBTIQ training, and can work towards achieving a Silver Rainbow tick.

But Anne said more education and attitudinal change was needed to ensure that workers, from the CEO to the nursing, kitchen, garden, cleaning and admin staff, put into practice those policies of acceptance.

Ensuring those attitudes are also passed on to other residents is another matter, with a government report finding LGBTIQ residents V1 - SECE01Z01MA

The crowd ready for the film to begin, with a shot of Mr Velvet Ears himself, Melvin, with Edie and Anne.

Picture: Contributed

have been bullied and physically abused by fellow residents.

CHANGING ATTITUDES Dr Catherine Barrett, who has worked on the films with Anne and Edie, was a finalist for the 2018 Human Rights Medal for her work advocating for older Australians, including the LGBTIQ community and people with dementia.

She said while ultimately we need all services to be LGBTIQ-friendly, it will take a lot to overcome old fears and cultural stereotypes, or partial acceptance that “it’s OK to be gay, but not that gay”.

For that reason, she said, having the option of a specific LGBTIQ service such as that at Parkwood, as well as inclusivity and acceptance within mainstream aged care, were both equally important.

The Mr Velvet Ears trailer, full film and resources, and the couple’s other films, are available at www.museumoflove

Edie at her best to enjoy the world premiere of Mr Velvet Ears in Ballarat with Anne.

.com.au/pulse.html. For other LGBTIQ Seniors films go to https:// alicesgarage.net.

Find more on LGBTIQ health at https:// lgbtihealth.org.au/, on dementia at www.dementia.org.au, on Arcare Parkwood at https://

arcare.com.au/parkwood/ or, if this has raised issues for you, phone Lifeline on 13 11 14.

HELP AT HAND As part of the implementation of the LGBTI Strategy, the Federal Government, in partnership

with various LGBTI advocacy and support agencies, has compiled a collection of LGBTI-specific ageing and aged care resources for the LGBTI community, their loved ones, carers and aged care service providers.

For helpful tips about looking for aged care that

Picture: Contributed

caters to the LGBTIQ community, go to https:// agedcare.health .gov.au/ support-services/my-agedcare/lgbti-ageing-and-agedcare-resources. * LGBTIQ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer or Questioning.

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JANUARY, 2020//

Don’t bank on cuts

Money THE Reserve Bank of Australia cut Australia’s cash rate in October 2019 to a historic low of 0.75 per cent, with many pundits predicting further interest rate cuts to come.

Interest rates in other parts of the world, such as European nations and Japan, have been at ultralow levels for many years and have not helped these economies with their growth.

Raising and lowering interest rates – the price of money – is popularly believed to stimulate or slow an economy and, in the short term, this is almost certainly true.

In the longer term, however, a continual bias toward stimulating the economy in this manner often has produced the reverse effect in that imbalances and bubbles are eventually fostered and the economic growth temporarily created proves

SENIORS

unsustainable.

Lower interest rates clearly reduce mortgage repayments and, if consumers spend these interest savings, it will give the economy a short-term boost.

The more important aspect of lowering interest rates is to greatly encourage the corporate sector to borrow more with the aim of expanding their enterprises by building new productive facilities – like new mines or factories – as this results in more jobs and sustained wealth creation in the longer term.

However, extremely low interest rates can actually act counter to the intentions of what many central banks – including the RBA – hope to achieve.

There are many unintended consequences of lower interest rates, which we have seen play out in Europe and Japan and are now seeing in Australia:

1. Consumers who are borrowing are rewarded, while long-term savers are penalised.

By lowering interest rates, the RBA is making it cheaper for consumers to borrow and encouraging them to spend.

Meanwhile, the same low rates are effectively penalising those who have saved all their lives in the hope of living in retirement off the interest earned from their savings.

Savers have been driven to look beyond the safe options of bank accounts and term deposits, which are offering very low returns.

As of October 2019, oneyear term deposit rates were at 1.6 per cent.

2. Lower interest rates do not appear to be leading many companies to expand their productive capacity, but are instead boosting asset prices.

Companies may borrow more because the cost of

Propel To Passive Income

fail.

It is usual that when money growth exceeds output growth then there will be inflation.

This has been true but, importantly, the inflation has been concentrated in asset prices and not in goods and services prices that are measured by the consumer price index (CPI).

Interest rate cuts have increased money and credit but nearly all of the inflation we have seen has been asset-price inflation while economic growth continues to trend down.

So the investor and retiree is left to manage income and portfolio growth within this global monetary policy trend of downward interest rates.

The best strategy is to consult your financial adviser to invest wisely during these challenging times. * For more information

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contact Mark Digby at Maher Digby Securities Pty Ltd – Financial Advisers – AFSL No. 230559 (see advertisement on Page 3). Phone 07 5441 1266 or visit maherdigby.com.au.

This document was prepared without taking into account any person’s particular objectives, financial situation or needs.

It is not guaranteed as accurate or complete and should not be relied upon as such. Maher Digby Securities does not accept any responsibility for the opinions, comments, forward-looking statements and analysis contained in this document, all of which are intended to be of a general nature. Investors should, before acting on this information, consider the appropriateness of this information having regard to their personal objectives, financial situation or needs.

We recommend consulting a financial adviser.

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borrowing is lower, but instead of investing in new assets such as factories and innovation – which will spur long-term economic growth because of the extra jobs created – many are using these borrowed funds to buy back existing assets, which only creates a debt for later.

3. Extremely low interest rates do not necessarily lead to higher inflation or a healthier state of affairs in the corporate sector.

By artificially controlling the price of money or the interest rate, funding is not necessarily scarce and companies or entrepreneurs can set up in competition with well-funded companies without having a sensible or economic business model.

While innovative competition deserves success, businesses that cannot make money and pay interest and repay debt can sustain themselves when they would often naturally

Australian Taxation Office to reunite amounts it receives from ERFs with their rightful owners sooner.

These changes are another step forward in addressing the issue of unnecessary duplicate accounts in the superannuation system, lowering fees and charges, and are consistent with the Productivity Commission’s recommendation, in its report Superannuation: Assessing Efficiency and Competitiveness, that ERFs be wound up within three years.

While ERFs are subject to the Government’s Protecting Your Super reforms, which require them to transfer inactive low-balance accounts to the tax office, they are unable to voluntarily transfer other

MONEY TRAIL: it will soon be easier to track down lost and forgotten super funds.

Picture: Contributed

amounts to the ATO, which restricts their ability to exit the market.

Legislation will therefore be introduced into Parliament early next year to permit ERF trustees to voluntarily transfer any amount to the tax office.

The legislation will also require them to transfer all accounts below $6000 by June 30 this year and to transfer any remaining accounts still residing in an ERF to the ATO by the same date next year.

This measure will build

upon the success of the Government’s Protecting Your Super reforms, which have resulted in the ATO proactively reuniting more than 2.13 million accounts, worth about $2.79 billion, with their rightful owners, around a month after their introduction.

This includes about 1.54 million accounts, worth more than $2.40 billion, that have been transferred into individuals’ active super accounts and just over 595,000 accounts, worth $303 million, paid into individuals’ bank accounts – a power that only the tax office has.

The tax office’s datamatching program has generated results far exceeding those previously achieved by ERFs, which house millions of inactive and forgotten superannuation accounts.

By reuniting these longlost accounts with their rightful owners, members will be able to enjoy higher account balances and will no longer be paying multiple sets of fees that erode their benefits.

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Invest responsibly Make choices that reflect personal principles Dianne Chapman CLIMATE change is a hot topic and many Australians are now considering what they can do to help the environment.

Every little bit counts and for those wanting to take action on the environment, money is a powerful language that can be a force for good.

For some people, making changes to their finances to be in line with their environmental values is a great step to take.

Whether it’s through superannuation, investment or savings, more and more people are reviewing their financial arrangements to ensure their funds are put to work in a way that does no harm and, ideally, leaves the world in a better place.

Responsible investment is a process that takes into account environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into the investment process of research, analysis, selection and monitoring of investments.

It has become a major part of the investment landscape across Australia as attitudes change.

Many people want to ensure they are not contributing to anything that damages the planet. More than half of all investments in Australia are now being made responsibly and ethically according to the responsible investment association of Australasia.

So if you’re wondering how you can make your finances sustainable, here are some of my most important tips: 1. Understand what matters to you.

Everyone’s values are different so you need to first work out what’s most important to you. Do you feel strongly about not investing in fossil fuels?

Are you interested in discovering cutting-edge solutions for climate change or is improving energy efficiency a greater priority for you?

How will these preferences impact on your investment performance?

From here you can identify the areas where you don’t want to invest or, conversely, where you’d V1 - SECE01Z01MA

rather put your money to make a positive impact.

2. Do your research and get to know the ESG principles.

While the E in ESG may be your No. 1 concern, you may want to take into account a broader set of criteria when making decisions about your money and get to know what the S and the G stand for.

Each investment manager has its own investment policy when it comes to ESG investing. For instance, some may apply a “negative screening” or “exclusion” policy, meaning that they steer clear of certain sectors (e.g. fossil fuels).

Be mindful of exclusion policies as they may lead to increased volatility in your portfolio.

A chat with an adviser on the implications of this approach is recommended.

Climate-change investing tends to be a form of positive screening. In other words, actively choosing to invest in companies that are making a difference (e.g. renewable energy).

RIAA is a good resource to use when you’re starting on this journey as it details the investment strategies of ethical and sustainable funds.

Many super funds or investment managers also now have information about sustainability and ESG on their websites.

Look to see whether they have signed the United Nations-backed Principles of Responsible Investing and whether they have published their scorecard.

3. Start with super.

Do you know where your super is invested? Does it offer a Socially Responsible Investment (SRI) option?

Make sure you read all the information provided by your super fund about the particular sectors,

businesses and/or investment activities that are considered for investment.

It’s worthwhile knowing that some people believe many SRI options don’t go far enough.

Again, it pays to know what matters most to you and then you can find an option that aligns with your values.

4. Don’t forget the eggs rule.

One of the key principles of good investing is diversification – not putting all your eggs in one basket.

Diversification is key to any investment strategy. It spreads risks and ensures you are not exposed to any single investment or asset class.

So consider the risks of crafting a portfolio that’s too narrow and concentrated.

Climate-themed funds also haven’t been around for a long time, with many having only launched several years ago. This makes their performance hard to assess.

5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Being a more responsible investor involves a lot of research, and working out exactly how far you want your investment decisions to reflect your sustainable and ethical concerns can be a minefield (pun intended).

For example, you might not want to invest in coal companies, metallurgical coalminers and mining companies, but what about transport companies that freight coal, coal seam gas, oil and conventional gas, electricity generators, or diversified energy generators that may have large investments in renewables as well as coal?

– Dianne Chapman, of Jade Financial Group, is an authorised representative of AMP Financial Planning Pty Ltd, ABN 89 051 208 327, AFS Licence No. 232706.

Any advice given is general only and has not taken into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of this, before acting on any advice, you should consult a financial planner to consider how appropriate the advice is to your objectives, financial situation and needs.

How to protect your assets from expensive mistakes Check your insurances Liability insurance is a must if you want to safeguard your assets in the event that you need to pay compensation.

Separate business and personal assets If you are a business owner and your family home is held in your name, it may be at risk from bankruptcy or litigation procedures. One way to protect your home is to give majority ownership of the home to a person who is not an owner of the business, typically a spouse.

Create a trust Trusts can be beneficial asset protection strategies, as you are transferring ownership of an asset away from yourself and into a legal structure, so the asset is not yours to lose in the event you are sued.

Summary Structuring your assets the right way is one of the most important things you can do to protect your hard-earned wealth. As these strategies can be complex, always seek the help of a professional such as your financial adviser.

Please contact RI Advice RetireInvest so we can help.

Chase Financial Planning Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative of RI Advice Group Pty Limited (ABN 23 001 774 125), AFSL 238429.

This editorial does not consider your personal circumstances and is general advice only.

Worried about the proposed changes and the “noise” in the media?

Concerned about your pension going forward?

Need to protect your family?

Your first appointment is free, so take control, ask for professional advice!

Our Financial Planning Services include; Life Insurances Superannuation Aged Care Planning Lake Macquarie 02 4973 4699

* Glenda Chase and Nick Arkoudis are Authorised Representatives of

Investments Retirement Planning Wealth Management www.rimorisset.com.au Email: admin@chasefinancial.com.au RI Advice Group Pty Ltd ABN 23 001 774 125 AFSL 238429

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SENIORS

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CLASSIFIEDS

JANUARY, 2020//

SENIORS

Kitchen too kitsch?

Find a redecorator to suit your style at Buy Search Sell.

Hunting for treasure?

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SENIORS

G E N E R A L K N O W L E D G E

PUZZLES

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Across 1 What is the longest common English word starting and ending with W? (11) 8 Which poet, considered Russia’s greatest, was killed in a duel at age 37? (7) 9 Which river is Europe’s longest? (5) 10 What is the monetary unit of Samoa? (4) 11 Seeing Russians smoking cigarettes caused a surge in their popularity in Britain after which war? (7) 12 Which extinct bird was larger than its close relative the ostrich? (3) 13 Inti was the sun god of which South American empire?

(4) 15 What is an American slang word for a habitual heavy drinker? (4) 17 What is a female sheep? (3) 19 What hooked staff is carried by a bishop? (7) 20 What name is given to a cluster of bananas? (4) 23 The scented-flowered shrub Syringa vulgaris is better known as what? (5) 24 What country consists chiefly of the north Sahara Desert? (7) 25 Which European country has four official languages?

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SUDOKU

Fill the grid so every column, every row and 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

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18/1

DOUBLECROSS

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Down 1 What North American deer is now often regarded as a larger race of the red deer? (6) 2 What standing frame supports an artist’s work? (5) 3 What is a large area of water surrounded by land? (4) 4 What medicine for bruises is prepared from a daisy-like plant? (6) 5 A military wake-up signal (8) 6 Who (Julie ____) played Mrs Overall in the TV spoof soap Acorn Antiques? (7) 7 What do Australians call their monitor lizard? (6) 12 What traditional type of band plays in Mexican streets?

(8) 14 What are ribbon-like strips of pasta in soup? (7) 16 In radio’s Goon Show, who was Bluebottle’s goofy playmate? (6) 17 What adopted German word means substitute or replacement? (6) 18 Which prince was born in England in 1964? (6) 21 Which blood vessel is the body’s largest? (5) 22 What gelatinous substance is used as a culture medium for bacteria? (4)

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Find a finished crossword by deleting one of the two letters in each divided square.

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Down 1. Embarrassed (8) 2. Astound (5) 4. Stunk (6) 5. Instinctive behaviour (6,6) 6. Supervise (7) 7. Drunkards (4) 8. Bad-tempered, unpleasant (12) 12. Inborn (8) 14. Lie under oath (7) 16. Orbit (6) 18. Alcohol (5) 19. Worry about something (colloq) (4)

Across 1. Smack (4) 3. Wall paintings (8) 9. Look at in detail (7) 10. Swindler (5) 11. State of readiness (12) 13. Excellent (6) 15. Out of sight (6) 17. Overwhelmingly tempting (12) 20. Pollex (5) 21. Rust (7) 22. Any time (8) 23. Ding (4)

SOLUTIONS

5x5 E A R L S

ALPHAGRAMS: ATTIC, BABIES, CAPSULE, DESIGNER, EAVESDROP. GK CROSSWORD Across: 1 Wheelbarrow, 8 Pushkin, 9 Volga, 10 Tala, 11 Crimean, 12 Moa, 13 Inca, 15 Lush, 17 Ewe, 19 Crosier, 20 Hand, 23 Lilac, 24 Algeria, 25 Switzerland.

Down: 1 Wapiti, 2 Easel, 3 Lake, 4 Arnica, 5 Reveille, 6 Walters, 7 Goanna, 12 Mariachi, 14 Noodles, 16 Eccles, 17 Ersatz, 18 Edward, 21 Aorta, 22 Agar.

QUICK CROSSWORD Across: 1. Slap 3. Frescoes 9. Examine 10. Cheat 11. Preparedness 13. Superb 15. Unseen 17. Irresistible 20. Thumb 21. Corrode 22. Whenever 23. Dent.

Down: 1. Sheepish 2. Amaze 4. Reeked 5. Second nature 6. Oversee 7. Sots 8.

Disagreeable 12. Inherent 14. Perjure 16. Circle 18. Booze 19. Stew.

Solve the anagrams. Each solution is a one-word anagram of the letters beside it, and the five solutions are sequential. For example, if the five-letter solution starts with J, the six-letter solution starts with K, and so on.

TACIT BIB SEA LACES UP RESIGNED DOPES RAVE

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Insert the missing letters to make ten words — five reading across the grid and five reading down.

Note: more than one solution may be possible.

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All puzzles © The Puzzle Company

TODAY: Good 14 Very Good 17 Excellent 20

turned udder under

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How many words of four letters or more can you make? Each letter must be used only once and all words must contain the centre

A L O N E

WORD GO ROUND

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M A R K S

DOUBLECROSS

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ALPHAGRAMS

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