Toowoomba, January 2019 by seniors

January, 2019 FREE

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WELCOME

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

LEANING INTO 2019

INDEX 2 4 5 8 8 10 13 19 22 23 26 27

Welcome Over 55s flocking to dance Tutors needed at U3A What’s on Community group guide Senior Australian of the Year Wanderlust Wellbeing Living Money Classifieds Puzzles

Good start to a good year

of mind and spirit are key among the qualities that define us as human beings. In the Toowoomba area, the people who shine on our pages include Alastair Silcock and the ever expanding audience attending his birding classes together with Sally Andrews of Radiance Dance Academy, who conducts a successful series of over 55 dance classes. There’s also an opportunity for you to share your skills at U3A Toowoomba. This group is facing the challenge of not having enough tutors to fill the the growing demand for programs in 2019. So, don’t hold back, join in the fun and I trust you enjoy a very happy new year. Gail

Gail Forrer Seniors Group Editor IT’S great to be able to start 2019 with a host of positive stories. In this edition we commence with a two-page feature on our Senior Australians of the Year. The recognition that comes with this honour allows us to look at the best of who we are. In the daily run of 24/7 news – which I follow through newspapers, current affair shows and online updates – I am often saddened when I read the worst of human nature, bored when I come across tedious celebrity gossip, indifferent when I hear politicians endeavour to sway us with empty promises, but find myself enjoying a good satire, a clever political cartoon or taking in an hilarious headline on some strange scientific study. But when it comes to reading about the work carried out by the people named as Senior Australians of the Year, I am uplifted by their humanity and their ability to get things done. It shows that far beyond the concept of age, generosity

CONTACT US General Manager Geoff Crockett – 07 5430 1006 geoff.crockett@news.com.au Editor Gail Forrer – 07 5435 3203 gail.forrer@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Media Sales Executive Brett Mauger – 07 3623 1657 brett.mauger@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Online Get your news online at www.seniorsnews.com.au Advertising, editorial and distribution enquiries Phone: 1300 880 265 or (07) 5435 3200 Email: advertising@seniorsnewspaper.com.au or editor@seniorsnewspaper.com.au Location: 2 Newspaper Place, Maroochydore 4558 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 “Toowoomba Seniors Newspaper”. The Seniors Newspaper is published monthly and distributed free in southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales. 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.

Explore Victoria’s highway gallery

HEY SENIORS! PC means more than politically correct

The Retirement Living Code of Conduct is expected to “set standards above and beyond statutory obligations”.

New code of conduct If you have ever struggled to comprehend technology, David Fredericks is your man, with one-on-one tuition in your Toowoomba home at a price anyone can afford.

Phone 4633 2313 or visit his website at www.davidf.com.au Toowoomba City area only thank you

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THE revitalisation of the retirement sector has taken a major step forward after the launch of a new code of conduct described as “vital for the industry”. The Retirement Living Code of Conduct is the product of the combined efforts of two of the sector’s peak bodies – the Retirement Living Council (which is part of the Property Council of Australia) and Leading

Age Services Australia (LASA). “The code is vital for the industry to set high standards for the marketing, selling and operating retirement communities, to promote and protect the interests of residents, and provide a clear framework for resolving disputes should they arise,” LASA CEO Sean Rooney said. Retirement Living at

the Property Council of Australia executive director Ben Myers said the code provided “certainty and transparency” for residents. Residents can now make a complaint against a code signatory if they believe their community is not meeting the code. cdn2.hubspot.net/ hubfs/2095495/

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

NEWS

Sky high love for birds Students a-twitter for birding Alison Houston

IN THE FIELD: One of Alastair Silcock’s birding groups enjoys a morning at McEwan State Forest, north of Pittsworth. Photos: Alastair Silcock Alastair isn’t such a hard task master that he has his groups up at dawn, running them instead from 7-9am. “We’re not particularly hardy, and it’s meant to be enjoyable,” he laughed.

“I think a lot of people enjoy the social aspect of it, and learning about the plants and environment and history of the local district, as well as identifying birds.” And as a keen

historian, being involved in Pittsworth District Landcare Association and knowing all the local happenings as long-time reporter for the Pittsworth Sentinel, Alastair has a good all-round knowledge

to lead the groups. To find out more about Birding or any other class offered by Pittsworth U3A – including art, writing, photography, computer, singing and dance – go along to the open day

from 9.30-11.30am on Tuesday, January 22. Alternatively, go to u3atoowoomba.com or ph:U3A co-ordinator Lyndall (07) 4693 2510 to find out more.

Updates from the Toowoomba Region

The red capped robin.

Council Meetings

CHANGE Project

The next meetings of Council’s Standing Committees will be held on 12 and 13 February 2019 commencing at 9am. The next Ordinary Meeting of Council will be held on 22 January commencing at 10am. All meetings are at City Hall, 541 Ruthven Street, Toowoomba.

A range of low-cost opportunities are available in the Toowoomba Region each week to help residents get out and active.

Activate Survey (prizes to be won!) We’d like to hear your thoughts and ideas on the future of sport, active recreation and healthy living in the Toowoomba Region. Have your say by completing our survey and go in the draw to win some amazing prizes to the value of up to $500! Surveys are open until 5pm on Friday 15 February 2019. Complete one online via http://yoursay.tr.qld. gov.au/activate-survey or in hard copy at Council customer service centres.

Waste Audit We’re conducting an audit of the rubbish that goes into kerbside bins throughout the region over the next eight weeks. At randomly selected properties, our consultant’s crew will bag and tie rubbish early in the morning before regular collection trucks come through the street. Analysing the rubbish will help us understand the region’s waste disposal habits. All waste is kept conﬁdential and disposed of in the normal way afterwards. If you would like to opt out of the audit, please call us.

An owl poses for the camera.

For bookings for all events call 131 872 or visit www.tr.qld.gov.au

For full details and to join visit www.tr.qld.gov.au/change

Choose the Right Bin to Put it in Confused about where to put your rubbish? Head to www.tr.qld.gov.au/ recycling for handy hints and information on what can be recycled. Remember – plastic bags and grass clippings don’t go in your yellow lidded bin. Also, be sure to cut up your broom and mop handles before you put them in your general waste bin. Let’s recycle right!

New Years Eve Fireworks New Year’s Eve is a time to party all around the world and Toowoomba Region is no exception! Celebrate in Frogs Hollow, Queens Park on Monday 31 December. From 3.30pm enjoy food stalls, a petting zoo and free kids’ rides; from 5pm join in on family fun activities (with heaps of prizes!) and stick around for the ﬁreworks spectacular from 7.45pm (sponsored by Orchy Fruit Juices). For more info call us or visit our website. TRC_0119_SN

YOU never know what will take off in the world of U3A, and Pittsworth tutor Alastair Silcock has been as surprised as anyone by the growing popularity of his Birding class. He first offered birdwatching when the Pittsworth U3A branch opened in 2012 and got just one taker, the next year six, then 12, and in 2015, it jumped to 20, and Alastair had to split numbers into two fortnightly classes. Now, there’s a waiting list... so what’s the secret? “I think people just enjoy getting out into the countryside, seeing places they haven’t seen before and talking to like-minded people,” Alastair said. He has about 15 sites within 20-30 minutes of Pittsworth on public and private land to which he regularly takes groups. Alastair has been interested in birdwatching for more than 20 years, so has built up a pretty good knowledge of the local wildlife. But he said participants in the class covered the full range from absolute novices to experienced birdos. “You start out just knowing the common birds and over time you learn more simply by going out with people who know more than you,” he said. His group has now identified 150 different species over the years, more than 110 species each year depending on conditions, with the drought taking its toll this year. Species No.150 was the bush stone curlew, much more common in coastal areas, with other birds of special interest including jabirus and magpie geese, again more commonly found near the coast and to the north. With good timber habitat and water sources, Alastair said the region made for good birdwatching and he now also received calls from property owners when there were eagles nesting on their property so he could bring groups out. Early morning is the best time to see birds, but

NEWS

Skype puts you in touch

IMAGINE your family has moved away. Lacking the social connections previous generations found in church or fraternal organisations, it doesn’t take much time to begin feeling isolated. A new study led by researchers at OHSU in Portland, Oregon, discovered that, of four online communication technologies, using video chat to connect with friends and family appeared to hold the most promise in staving off depression among seniors. Researchers compared four types of online communication technologies and found a potential link between the use of video chat and prevention of clinically significant symptoms of depression in older adults across a twoyear period.

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Over-55s love to dance

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Alison Houston BALLET and tap classes are in demand by seniors in Toowoomba. Radiance Academy’s Sally Andrew introduced over-55s dance classes in 2016 to gauge interest at her mum Yvonne’s suggestion. At nearly 70, she wanted to dance, but not alongside people half her age, and the pair wondered how many others felt the same. The answer was many, and the academy now runs five over-55s classes a week as well as Dance for Parkinson’s. The experience level of participants is completely mixed. Some, Sally said, had always wanted to dance but never got the chance, others gave up dance as kids or teenagers, while one was a former performer with Queensland Ballet. “People are really excited that there’s something here for them,” Sally said. “When you fall in love with ballet, you’re hooked for life, so a lot of people

When you fall in love with ballet, you’re hooked for life

NEVER TOO OLD: Radiance Academy over-55s teacher Kerrie Jessup with Queensland Ballet artistic director Li Cunxin and over-55s student Jenny Barnes. Photo: Radiance Academy

thought they’d had to leave it all behind as teenagers, but now they feel like they’re home. “It’s a really amazing group of people.” The benefits, she said, were many, with dance counteracting various aspects of the ageing process including improving cognitive, balance and core body strength and flexibility. A Queensland Ballet research study recently

found that ballet for seniors led to positive well-being, including people feeling more energetic and enthusiastic, keeping in shape, becoming more aware of their posture and having greater body control. Sally paid tribute to academy teacher Kerrie Jessup, who originally danced with the famous Halliday School of Dance, and now heads the

over-55s program, for keeping the classes fresh and innovative all the time. “All the research shows that change in routines and movement is really important because it really gets the brain firing,” Sally said. “But the social aspect is very important as well as the physical aspect of dance. “It’s more fun, relaxed and social than going to the gym – it’s a new way of doing things, exercising, being with friends and moving to music; you don’t even notice you’re working hard. “We are taking the stereotype of dance classes being just for young people and turning it on its head to be a holistic and inclusive part of anyone’s life who wants to be involved.” For her that has meant a lot of extra training to also offer Dance for Parkinson’s.

“A lot of what we are doing is a first in our region and we are so thankful we can offer this class which is often only available in major cities, so people can now access it close to home.” Each week up to 20 people with Parkinson’s disease and their carers take the class, which Sally said could be emotional, as well as just plain fun. “They can just forget for a minute what they are dealing with in life,” she said. If you are interested in learning ballet or tap, Sally offers a free trial class, while the Dance for Parkinson’s classes are kept at just $5 per person, as the academy’s way of giving back to the community and helping people who are going through a tough time. To find out more, go to radianceacademy toowoomba.com or phone 0437 012 653.

Make money while the sun shines

AUSTRALIA’S household electricity bills have doubled in the last five years, so it’s no secret that more and more Australians are making the switch to solar in a bid to drastically reduce their electricity bills. The latest Renewable Energy Index figures report more than 8,500 homes across Qld and NSW installed solar in the month of October delivering cumulative savings of $100 million dollars in power bill reduction over the next ten years. Isn’t it time you got on board? Right now, investing in solar delivers serious and immediate returns. SAE Group have yet another compelling offer that will make the switch easy for you. This high quality 6.6kW solar bundle comprised of the 5kW Solax X1 inverter, and 24 x 275watt Seraphim panels, for just $4,695. We understand it might seem complicated to get a real understanding of what your returns might be on a solar system, so let’s take a look at just how good the benefits are so you can make an informed decision. According to the Clean Energy Council the average hours of sunlight a day across the year is 4.2 hours, so we will use this as the base to calculate the solar generation. Based on 4.2 hours a day, a 6.6kW system will generate 28kW of clean energy every day. Now let’s say you self-consume 50%, or 14kW your total solar generation each day. Based on today’s average electricity charges of .28c/kW, by cutting your reliance on the grid by 50%, you stand to make a saving of $3.92 each day. That might not seem much but over the course of a year that’s $1,430 back in your pocket. Then there’s the other 50% of your solar production that you can export back to the grid. Based on today’s average solar feed in tariffs you’re looking at anywhere from 8 cents to 15 cents, depending on your electricity retailer. Let’s base our calculations somewhere in the middle… if you are exporting the remaining 50% at 12 cents per kW, that’s another saving of $1.68 cents per day, or a further $613 a year you’ll save in electricity costs. That’s a whopping total of $2,043 per year in electricity savings alone, which equates to a payback period of just over two years, leaving years ahead of you of pure savings.

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*This offer is not available with any other offer. Price includes racking and installation. Single storey access only. Price is valid for standard roof tile only. Terracotta, ﬂat, designer tiles and colourbond may incur an extra charge. Net meter changeover not included. Smart meter not included. Finance options are available, subject to lending criteria eligibility. Terms & conditions, fees and charges may apply. Travel charges for distance over 70kms from warehouse will apply. Electrical Licenses: QLD 72258, NSW 227562C

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

NEWS

Tutors needed at U3A Alison Houston THE biggest challenge facing U3A Toowoomba as it prepares for a new year is finding enough tutors to fill the growing demand for programs. President Rhonda Weston said the group now boasted 2120 members, having grown 10 per cent every year for the past eight years. It offers 190 different classes for over-50s, a greater choice per capita than anywhere else in Queensland. “The most popular areas are art and any form of physical exercise,” Rhonda said, with Pilates, yoga and tai chi classes all having long waiting lists. “We are very happy for people interested in being

tutors to contact us about existing or new areas. “Sometimes people have a skill we mightn’t have thought of but which people would love to learn.” There are no set qualifications to be a tutor, just a love of and sound knowledge of your subject and the wish to share it, challenge yourself and others, and make friends. In an exciting development this year, U3A Toowoomba is also partnering with the University of Southern Queensland, which will allow members to sit in on lectures for 12 selected subjects from archaeology and anthropology to food science and computer engineering. Happily, there are no assignments or exams

CONNECTING: U3A Toowoomba’s Rhonda and David Weston visited the U3A Yantai, Shandong Provence, Art Class on a study tour after the World Senior Tourism Congress, attended by 400 U3A members. Photo: hanjun involved, and therefore no qualification at the end, it’s simply the chance to learn from experts in their fields. For Rhonda, it’s all about lifelong learning, and despite the group’s obvious success, including being the only Australian member of the international association of U3A, she and the local management committee are never content to rest on their laurels. “We have a really amazing group and we never get bogged down in doing the same thing; we are always looking for wider opportunities,” she

‘‘

U3A Toowoomba is also partnering with the University of Southern Queensland,

said. In the coming year, she hopes that will include developing international study tours, giving members the chance to connect with U3A members overseas, thus gaining a different, more locals-focused perspective in their travels. With China very keen to support its ageing population, four

international tours in which Toowoomba members can take part are planned. U3A’s Japanese class regularly shares lessons via Skype with their sister city Takatsuki’s Seniors’ English class, and members visited while travelling in Japan with tutor George Goodsell last term. Rhonda has recently

returned from trips to China and Mauritius, where she spoke on multiculturalism in U3As in Australia. Next year, she will take up a place on the international governing board of U3A, having previously had terms as Queensland president and national president and been on the Asia Pacific board. Open days: 9.30–11.30am, Toowoomba, January 21, Pittsworth January 22 and Crows Nest January 23. To find out more, go to u3atoowoomba.com.

NEWS

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Summer Tunes takes the crowd back in time

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Alison Houston ENTERTAINER Cathy Drummond spends a lot of time on the road travelling between gigs, so she’s happy to be staying close to home for her Summer Tunes event at Picnic Point again this year. “I had a crazy six weeks in September/October where I did 22 gigs, drove 9000km and was flown to Derby in WA... but I absolutely love what I do. I’ve no complaints,” Cathy said. Despite a long drive back from a show in Maroochydore, Cathy sounded full of enthusiasm when Seniors finally caught up with her about 6pm recently. She has been appearing in Summer Tunes as part of her duo 2 Timing with Walter Morellato for about five years and says the diversity of the program Toowoomba Regional Council organises is what makes it great. Summer Tunes features local musicians in free, live music at popular parks across the Toowoomba region every weekend through January and February. “It’s just such a nice, relaxing atmosphere,” Cathy said. “People bring their picnic rugs or chairs, sing along, and quite often we get people up dancing.” While Cathy said “all our parks are beautiful”, she reckons the rotunda at Picnic Park is pretty close to the perfect place to perform, and for friends and family of all ages to get together.

Summer Tunes features local musicians in free, live music at popular parks

SUMMER FUN: Cathy Drummond and Water Morellato are 2 Timing, just one of the huge range of local artists performing in Toowoomba region parks every weekend across January and February. Cathy and Walter have a huge repertoire of songs from the 1940s to today’s hits, from Judy Garland and Doris Day to Adele, and Elvis to John Denver and ABBA, and are happy to take requests. The classics, she said, never die, with the music of ABBA and Queen particularly spanning the

ages. While she loves performing with Walter, 95 per cent of Cathy’s work is as a solo artist playing for a huge variety of functions and ages, including regular seniors’ events such as the Mayor’s annual Over-80s Christmas Party and the monthly Morning Melodies

at Oakey RSL. She said she’d love to see more such events offered locally for older residents. She recalls one woman coming up to her after a concert with a tear in her eye after Cathy sang the wartime favourite We’ll Meet Again, telling her she hadn’t heard the song

since she was 15, but could still remember that day exactly. “That’s one of the beautiful things about singing these songs; it transports people to a time and place in their life when they were younger, and they sometimes share those memories with me, which is very

special, a real honour,” she said. Cathy’s father Kevin Wade was a country music singer in the 1970s, and having married and raised her own family, she began singing professionally about 22 years ago. A country girl at heart, she welcomes the chance to hit the road and enjoy the open spaces, even if that does mean a 12 hour drive, as in the case of one of her more “unique” gigs, the Windorah International Yabby Races near Birdsville, which she has played for the past 20 years. “I’ll sing anywhere, anytime,” Cathy laughed. To see the full Summer Tunes calendar, which includes a range of concerts at Queens Park, Picnic Point (2 Timing plays February 17), Laurel Bank and Newtown parks, as well as a list of more regionally focused shows at Cambooya, Cecil Plains, Crows Nest, Goombungee, Oakey and Pittsworth, go to events at tr.qld.gov.au. To find out more about Cathy’s music, go to cathydrummond.com.au or phone 0429 465 427.

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THE Antarctica Experience virtual-reality film has opened at the National Museum, Canberra. Journey to the coldest place on Earth, walk among penguins, gaze at the brilliant colours of the southern lights, see frozen ice fields from the cockpit of a soaring helicopter. In a first-ever 360-degree virtualreality depiction of the stunning southern continent, The Antarctica Experience is

ICY WONDER: The Antarctica Experience. the creation of Perth-based explorer, producer, director and writer Briege Whitehead and BAFTA award-winner Phil Harper, who used

the latest technology and 4K high-resolution images. Visitors will experience life as a scientist, cruising icy waters on a tour of secluded bays, and have exclusive behind-thescenes access to one of Australia’s permanent research stations. The Antarctica Experience will be showing until the end of June. Further details: nma.gov.au/antarctica.

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

NEWS

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JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

MARKETS

TASTE and sample the best of local produce, plants wines, cakes, honey and jams with a touch of country hospitality at Crows Nest Village Markets. There’s a range of craft, clothing and food stalls including a barbecue from 7am at Centenary Park on Sunday, February 3 and the first Sunday of every month. The markets are run by the Lions Club from 7am-noon. Phone 0429 678 120.

What's on

Alison Houston

CROWS NEST GALLERY

CROWS Nest Regional Art Gallery is providing a look inside its collection this summer. Some of the works haven’t been publicly viewed for years. All the pieces provide a sense of community and belonging within Australian identity. It’s on from Wednesday, January 9 to February 10, from 10.30am-3.30pm. Phone (07) 4698 1687.

ARTS RETREAT

YOU’LL be lucky to still find a spot, with many classes already sold out, but it’s worth a look at the 51st McGregor Summer Arts Retreat program. Check out what’s on offer or form ideas to get in early for next season. Develop your creative streak with Australia’s longest running visual and creative arts retreat by learning from some of Australia’s most well recognised artists during

GRIEF AND LOSS

ENDURING CLASSICS: Tenori (David Kidd, Craig Atkinson and Andrew Pryor) will cover opera, musical theatre, pop and jazz when they come to the Armitage Centre, Toowoomba at 7.30pm on Saturday, February 2. the day and wrap the nights up with evening entertainment. It’s on from Sunday, January 13-19. Go to artsworx.usq.edu.au or phone (07) 4631 1111.

DALBY MARKETS

THE Dalby Markets are back in 2019 on the third Saturday of every month with a range of arts, crafts, produce and food stalls. The first begins at 7am on January 19 at the Dalby Showgrounds. Phone (07) 4662 4464.

COUNTRY MUSIC

THE Dalby Country Music Club is hosting two of Australia’s favourite traditional country music artists on January 25. Dean Perrett performs

everything from bush ballads to bluegrass gospel, while singer-songwriter Peter Pratt combines new songs and traditional favourites. It’s 9am-noon on Friday, January 25 for $20 entry. Phone 0488 997 540 or find them on Facebook.

SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB

THE Toowoomba Senior Citizens Club provides a fun space for the young at heart and those wanting to give something new a try. And what better time than the new year? There’s a range of activities from the beginner up, including dances each Wednesday and Thursday night, as

well as a schedule of dancing, singalongs, cards, bowls, pool, Tai Chi, yoga, bus trips and concerts. It’s at 39 Victoria St. Phone (07) 4632 7157 or email seniorcitizenstba@ bigpond.com.

JEWELLERY WORKSHOP

DESIGN and wear your own DIY fashion statements with the Adult Polymer Clay Jewellery Workshop. This $70 all-inclusive workshop on Friday, February 1 will teach you how to roll, shape, design, build and assemble your wearable works of art. All materials are provided. Class are 6-9pm. Email create@ tinkertoowoomba.com or

Community group guide TO ALLOW for readers’ requests for the publication of more neighbourhood news, please keep notices short and to the point (100 word maximum). If you would like to submit a photo ensure it is at least 180dpi or 500kb to 1mb in size and of faces, in a nice bright setting. Email editor@seniors newspaper.com.au.

PROBUS CLUBS

Toowoomba City Inc. WE WILL meet on Monday, February 4 at Sunset Superbowl (527 South Street, corner of South and Greenwattle Streets) at 9.30am. At the meeting, morning tea will be served (cost $8). The invited speaker at the meeting will be Ms Sue Wells of Proud Mary, a Murray River paddle boat. Our monthly outing will be held on Monday, February 18 and will be to

LifeFlight, where we will will be given a tour of their operation – airlifting sick and injured patients. For further information, phone secretary Graham Lipp on (07) 4635 5806.

FEBRUARY FUNDRAISER

THE Missionary Sisters of St Peter Claver are holding their first fundraiser for 2019 in February. It will be held at All Seasons Function Hall, corner of North and Tor Streets, Toowoomba on Saturday, February 9. Doors will open at 12.30pm for a 1.30pm start. Prizes on offer are of an excellent standard and include generous meat and fruit trays and quality goods. For an entry fee of $5, you will receive a free sheet of tickets, a lucky door ticket and a buffet afternoon tea. All proceeds go to charity. Sisters can be

BEAUTIFUL BUGS: Case of Ulysses Butterflies is pictured from the Dodd Collection. See beetles and bugs both large and small this summer as you explore the Insectarium at Cobb + Co. Photo: Geoff Thompson contacted on (07) 4632 1818.

COBB + CO MUSEUM ACTIVITIES

INSECTARIUM School Holiday Fun until Friday, January 25 (weekdays only, 9.30am-2pm) Live Insect Shows at 10am and 11.30am. See beetles and bugs both large and small this summer as you explore the Insectarium School Holiday Program. Designed for children aged 3-12 years,

Insectarium is crawling with things for the whole family to see and do, including the following and more: See images of the iconic Dodd insect collection; See live stick insects and sort their insect eggs from their frass (stick insect poo); Create your own butterfly that flutters when you move; See microscopic images of insects in 3D and more. Cost is $10 per child and includes the live insect show and an activity booklet – buy

phone 0407 000 808.

TENORI ON TOUR

NATIONAL touring sensation Tenori (David Kidd, Craig Atkinson and Andrew Pryor) is joined by Jason Turnball to share their favourite classics from all genres – opera, musical theatre, pop and jazz. They will entertain audiences at the Armitage Centre, Empire Theatres at 7.30pm on Saturday, February 2 with fresh versions of songs by Puccini, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Lloyd-Webber, Simon & Garfunkel, Verdi, Peter Allen and more. Tickets cost $41-$45. Go to empiretheatre.com.au.

CROWS NEST online or purchase at the door. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Twilight Insectarium on Wednesday, January 16 from 4.30-7pm. Can't make it during the day? Join us for a special session of Insectarium School Holiday Fun after the museum closes. Food and drinks will be available to purchase in Cobb's Coffee Shop. Live Insect Show begins at 5.30pm. Cost is $10 per child and includes the live insect show and an activity booklet – buy online or purchase at the door. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Cobb + Co Museum is located at 27 Lindsay St, Toowoomba. Phone (07) 4659 4914 or go to cobbandco.qm.qld.gov.au.

DISABILITY SERVICES

IN QUEENSLAND the St Vincent de Paul Society became involved in supporting people with disabilities in 1986. Currently the program operates in Queensland‘s South West region, including Toowoomba and

HAVE you experienced the loss of a loved one? The Blue Care Grief and Loss Program runs free small groups to help you work through your grief in a welcoming and inclusive space. Each session runs for two hours 7-9pm from Tuesday, February 5, continuing over eight weeks. Phone Margaret on 0491 071 787 or email bluecare.grief.loss@ gmail.com.

BOLD AMBITIONS 2038

CURATOR Conversation is a series of talks hosted by Queensland Museum Curator Jeff Powell. February’s talk will focus on the area’s economic development, with guests Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Paul Antonio and principal economic development officer Shamus Garmany. It is free at Cobb + Co Museum on Wednesday, February 6 at 2.30pm. Warwick and outer areas. The service provides assistance for people with a disability with daily living skills who wish to live independently or in shared support arrangements. A person who in receipt of a Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Service (DCCSDS) funding support package are eligible to receive services. If you are not currently in receipt of a DCCSDS funding support please feel free to contact us to discuss what options maybe available to you. We also provide supports under the MAIC Qld, NSW Lifetime Care & Support, TAC Victoria and other fee for service arrangements. Want to find out if we have disability services and supports in your area? Go to the website qld.vinnies.org.au to find services in your local area. For further information, contact Jodie Eversteyn (Disability Service Manager) via email jodie. eversteyn@svdpqld.org.au or you can phone (07) 4699 5204.

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

NEWS

FEATURE

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

EACH STATE’S SENIOR AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR

Our top Seniors WE ARE proud to introduce you to eight senior Australians who are outstanding contributors to our community and to its wellbeing in a wide variety

Sally Wise, the Tasmanian Senior Australian of the Year.

of ways. Each of these people are winners of their state Senior Australian of the Year award and are in the running for the ultimate national accolade, Senior

Australian of the Year in 2019, to be announced on January 26. They have shared with Seniors News how they will use their raised profile in 2019.

Photo: Alastair Bett

TAS - Sally Wise, 67 SALLY is a kitchen guru, author and media presenter who is dedicated to equipping people with the knowledge to prepare nourishing food with accessible ingredients. In 2006 she received a request from a radio presenter to discuss jams and preserves. It led to Sally’s book A Year in a Bottle which sold thousands of copies. It was the first of 15 popular cookbooks. Sally launched a program at Risdon prison to teach soon-to-be

released inmates cooking skills. She also speaks to community groups to promote better nutrition using accessible ingredients. In addition, Sally helps new businesses in the food sector to optimise their recipes and techniques. “This past year has cemented my pathway and passion for the year to come, through chance encounters in cooking programs I have conducted. It has made me realise that there are silent, uncomplaining,

James Dale, the Queensland Senior of the Year.

often unnoticed groups within the community that would truly benefit from ‘companionable’ cookery – where the cooking and recipes are, as a natural part of the process, a catalyst to communication, between generations, cultures, at all levels of society. “My goal is to seek out such groups and place increased focus on the positive social, as well as inherent nutritional, benefits from preparing never-fail, delicious dishes made from readily accessible ingredients.”

Photo: Louise Bagger

SA - Reginald Dodd, 78 THE Arabunna elder used a Roget’s Thesaurus to interpret complex legislation and made his first Native Title claim in 1998. At Reg’s initiative the Arabunna Marree People was created with lawyers across Australia providing pro-bono assistance.

With a LAMP lawyer, Reg also co-designed and co-taught a law course at RMIT on country. “I will take this opportunity to create a dialogue with the government that will deliver and provide quality essential service to remote towns and

communities. My plan is to consult with the public through meetings and talks. I will continue the cross-cultural tours that have been a great success over the last 20 years or so. I will also continue the work with LAMP on heritage and cultural issues.”

Photo: Renae Droop, Richard Walker

QLD - Professor James Dale AO, 68 THE scientist, researcher and humanitarian has led significant research programs in agricultural biotechnology. His work includes seeking a solution to Vitamin A deficiency which can lead to death or blindness with children in developing countries particularly susceptible, and genetically modifying bananas, the staple diet in many poor countries.

Reginald Dodd, the South Australian Senior of the Year.

“Within the next 30 years our climate will degenerate and the world population will grow to more than nine billion. Together these will have a major impact on food and nutrition security. “Most of the population increase will be in the tropics and sub-tropics. Australia is one of the very few developed countries with tropical regions and tropical

agriculture. “I will use this award to stress that Australia has an opportunity or maybe a responsibility to be a major contributor to the development of the next versions of our tropical crops to alleviate this impending food and nutritional insecurity. Importantly, to do this we will need to mobilise all the technologies we have available.”

Dr Sue Packer, the ACT Senior Australian of the Year.

Photo: Contributed

ACT - Dr Sue Packer AM, 76 PAEDIATRICIAN and child advocate Dr Packer fights for the rights of children in the healthcare system and wider community. “My intention is to use my profile to encourage all Australians to think seriously about the experiences and challenges for all children

growing up in Australia in the 21st century. There is much we could all do to improve their lives and opportunities as they grow up, particularly considering the comparative wealth of Australia. “When we think about our children and their

vulnerabilities and the options we have to improve their lives, many of the possible measures would also be of benefit to vulnerable groups of adults, in particular the elderly and those with disabilities, to enable them to live fuller and more satisfying lives”.

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

FEATURE

EACH STATE’S SENIOR AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR

Heather Lee, the NSW Senior Australian of the Year.

Photo: Salty Dingo

Alison Harcourt, the Victorian Senior Australian of the Year.

NSW - Heather Lee OAM, 92

VIC - Alison Harcourt, 89

SHE is an unstoppable Australian. Heather started walking regularly late in life – signing up for a series of fun runs in her late 70s – and discovering she was actually quite quick. In 2011, at her physiotherapist’s suggestion, Heather competed in the Australian Masters Games, just before her 85th birthday – winning four gold medals. In 2012 Heather set a new Australian record for

ALISON is now best known for developing integer linear programming, the basis of efficient computer processing. “I’ve always loved numbers, so one of my aims is to try to convey that love to others. “This feeling is one which I believe anyone can absorb, but I’m aware that many people acquired a fear of numbers when they were

5km race walking for her age group. Later that year, at the Australian Masters Track and Field Championships, she broke three Australian records; the 10km (84m 06.00s), the 1500m (11m 36.90s) and her own 5km (41m 25.40s). Currently, Heather holds eight Australian and five world records. Heather has been a member of the local Hawkesbury Cancer Support Group for many years and was the 2018

Cancer Council March Charge Ambassador. Remarkably, she is one of the few who walks the full 24 hours of the Hawkesbury Relay for Life “I am the message,” Heather said. “Independence is vital. Make wellness your goal with diet, lifestyle and exercise to nurture your body, mind and spirit. “I never define myself by age and never define anyone else by age, because getting old is an achievement.”

young which they have not been able to shake off. “We should recognise that we are using numbers all the time, to measure temperature or the ingredients to make a cake, to knit a jumper or to check at what date in spring we should plant tomato seedlings. “Specifically, from the experience of using numbers and listening to how others use them, we can expand our

Ian Frank Mallard, the WA Senior Australian of the Year. Charlie King, the Northern Territory Senior Australian of the Year.

NT - Charlie King OAM, 67 THE veteran sports broadcaster and human rights campaigner in 2008 became the first Indigenous Australian to commentate at an Olympics. Charlie initiated the zero-tolerance campaign ‘NO MORE’ which has links with more than five sporting codes and nearly 100 individual sports teams.

“My vision is to contribute to an Australian community where all of its members feel safe,” he said. “The elimination of violence requires a monumental shift in the way that Australian’s view domestic violence. “I think that it is vitally important to connect with diverse groups of people, including seniors from

across Australia to harness their knowledge and to develop constructive actions that can lead to change. “This provides an opportunity to recognise the contribution that senior Australians and all Australians can make in influencing a change in the attitudes and beliefs that lead to domestic and family violence.”

Photo: Gavin Blue

appreciation of the wide world of mathematics. “More generally, we should ask older people about their life journey. We should also consider, rather than dismiss, creative people who want to challenge old ways. We should respect the enthusiasm of youth and the wisdom of immigrants. “Put simply, we should be open to other people’s ideas.”

Photo: MCB Photographics

WA - Frank Mallard, 73 THE Yamatji elder, ex-serviceman and volunteer is an ambassador and advocate for the contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander servicemen and women. He served in the Army and Army Reserves.. Despite PTSD and Parkinson’s, Frank is a dedicated veterans’ issues volunteer and chair of Voice of the Voiceless Ministry. “I would like to go back

to the old ways in Australia where we had the welfare of our families uppermost in our minds. To the days when the older members of family were cared for by the family and not sent off to an aged care facility. “I know that that cannot happen, so I would use my position to indulge my passion of caring for the less fortunate in our society, to make the community aware of the mental health problems

faced by our military and the youth, and to bring comfort to the homeless and marginalised in our cities, by providing free health care, meals and shelter, to those who can’t afford it. “We are acclaimed as the ‘lucky country’, but we have many people who would not think that. Some of them have served their country, but their country has forgotten them. Lest we forget.”

NEWS

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

AUSTRALIA

Just follow the Silo Art trail INSIDE

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

Adventure in be thrilled Ann Rickard visits a remarkable region that FIVE things to do in New Zealand’s Queenstown without a bungy jump in sight. I like adventure, but I like comfort too. In Queenstown I found plenty of both. Here are my five thrills of the gentler kind in Queenstown.

CHECK INTO A GOOD HOTEL

QUEENSTOWN offers myriad accommodation options from backpackers to high-end luxury resorts. We chose The Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, right on Lake Wakatipu with a backdrop of the Remarkables Mountains. Spacious villas with private balconies give a sense of privilege. Your own in-villa fireplace is a bonus. The signature restaurant, Wakatipu Grill, with its inside and outside fire-pits overlooking the lake is very welcoming, and the resort’s Stack’s Pub serves reassuring comfort food.

FOR A (SOFT) ADRENALINE THRILL

types zip down the mountain on a luge (a kind of billy cart contraption). Get on one if you can; it’s not hard.

CRUISE LAKE WAKATIPU

Try the Million Dollar Cruise because it cost just $NZ39 and cruised the lake for an hour a half, and had an open honesty bar. Indoor and outdoor seating, a captain and commentator who couldn’t have been more informative, helpful or friendly, knew every intimate part of the lake, pointed out wild birds and fish species in the transparent water and took us up-close to some of the multi-million-dollar water-front homes

WINE, WINE AND A BIT OF CHEESE

Queenstown sits in the Central Otago region which is known for its quality wines, especially pinot noir. Dozens of tour operators will take you to some of the top wineries in comfort and style and allow you to sip, sniff and swirl to your limit. We took ourselves to Amisfield, a stylish, chic and popular winery with luxury dining. It was difficult to get a reservation for lunch, but a cheese plate and a glass each of pinot noir in the garden was just as good as a long lunch. Be prepared to pay. New Zealand isn’t cheap. That cheese board and the two glass of wine... $NZ100.

LOOKING GOOD: Queenstown city and Lake Wakatipu is surrounded by dramatic mountains. Photo: New Zealand Tourism

WITHOUT actually jumping, leaping or being thrown around rapids in a high-speed jet-boat, take a Skyline Gondola (right in the heart of town) to the top of Bob’s Peak where the panoramic views of the lake, the town and the mountains make you feel you actually have done some heady adventure stuff. Enjoy a drink or snack at the Skyline Café, watch other more adventurous

The Rickards enjoying the fruits of Queenstown and the Otago region.

Aimsfield Winery offers fine wines and great food.

SHOPPING

There is high quality everywhere, especially New Zealand brands from fashion to outdoor and footwear. The town is compact and easy to stroll. It’s simple to find yourself in a cross-alleyway where more stylish shops and art galleries beckon. Surprises at every corner, and always with that majestic mountain range watching over you.

FINE DINING

Perhaps as well-known for its culinary prowess as it is for its adventure, Queenstown offers every cuisine from around the globe. We loved Flame Bar & Grill, upstairs in Beach Street with garden and lake views and giant flame-grilled steaks and succulent ribs. If you are of a patient nature – the hottest place in town is Fergburger in Shotover Street. The attraction eluded us, but not so the hundreds of others prepared to queue and wait an average of 45 minutes just to get in the door for a hamburger. With names like Morning Glory and The Dawn Horn and Holier Than Thou, the burgers do sound exotic, but from what we saw watching devotees devour the giant burgers on the footpath, they were just hamburgers. Another place to try is the Botswana Butchery. It has superb food and wine, all in a decor that wraps its arms around you.

Photo: Graeme Murray

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

Queenstown or get chilled excites the senses on many levels CHOOSE to be one, the other, or both. Queenstown offers a surprising number of holiday choices, all within a dramatic landscape of mountains, a pristine lake and fabulously crisp clean air.

SHOTOVER JET

GO ON, jet thrilled on a jet boat on the Shotover River. The jump on point is close to town. You’ll come back still feeling flush from the adventure. The boat takes you on a ride through dramatic and narrow canyons, with a few exhilarating full 360 spins thrown in. The Shotover Jet combines both of adventure and thrills in an exhilarating and unforgettable way.

FARM VISIT

JOIN the iconic steamship TSS Earnslaw for an entirely relaxing voyage across Lake Wakatipu to Walker Peak High Country Farm. The hand-fired steamship, which dates back to 1912, sets sail several times a day. You can do a round trip, or get off at the farm for morning tea, lunch or afternoon tea. While at the farm visitors meet some of the local animals, watch the sheep being shorn, help encourage the local sheep dogs to herd up their charges and enjoy fresh food in the Promenade Café or the restaurant. The more active can go horse trekking, adventure on electric farm bikes or to try independent cycling.

WALKING & HIKING

THE area offers a huge choice in walking tracks and trails that explore different parts of the region, including Ben Lomond, Queenstown Hill, Glenorchy, Arrowtown and Lake Hayes. Some trails are little more than a stroll, others are wide but challenging uphill hikes towards far-off peaks, and others still are narrow trails that cut into gullies and offer a different kind of excitement. If you don’t have your own gear there are hiking equipment hire outlets and shops for picking up new gear. Queenstown's track transport operators will drop you off and pick you up at your preferred location, letting you enjoy your walking or hiking adventure without worrying about the safety of your parked vehicle, or the possibility of being stranded at the end of the track. There are climbing tracks and lowland walking trails to enjoy. Details on where to go and how long each trail or walk should take are readily available.

WINTER WONDERLAND

QUEENSTOWN is in the heart of the Southern Alps and boasts mountains for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. There are four ski areas open during the long winter season. The closest is just 20 minutes drive from the town centre.

Remarkables Ski Field which is near Queenstown.

Ski passes range from single day, single ski area passes to season passes allowing unlimited access to multiple Queenstown ski areas. Snowboard and ski gear can be hired downtown, on-mountain or it can even be delivered to your accommodation. Most Queenstown ski rental shops are open until 9pm during the ski season. Queenstown also offers ice skating, snowmobiling and snowshoeing.

HISTORIC ARROWTOWN

THE Arrowtown Chinese Settlement was home to thousands of prospectors who came to the region in search of gold in the middle of the 19th Century. There are now about 70 historic buildings and features left from the gold rush era. In among these buildings are half-day’s worth of craft, art, good food and pleasant walks. Down by the river where the Chinese gold-miners were forced to live are their huts which have been restored and offering visitors the chance to step back into that ‘golden’ era and see up-close their modest living conditions, and learn stories of their occupants.

Historic Arrowtown.

OTHER IDEAS

There’s golf, tennis, wineries, fishing, health spas and much, more to do and see. For more Queenstown visitor ideas, go to queenstownnz.co.nz.

Thrilling ride through the Shotover River canyons.

The TSS Earnslaw steaming towards Walter Peak Farm.

Photo: New Zealand Tourism

JANUARY, 2019// SENIORS

SILO SOLO: Matt Adnate, a former Melbourne graffiti artist turned painter, has finished painting his biggest commission ever, four 30m high silos in the Victorian Wimmera wheat town of Sheep Hills. Photos: David Geraghty

Lascelles silo art.

GIANT works of art now dot the 200km landscape across Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region. Towering high above the paddocks and towns along the Henty Highway, the Silo Art Trail celebrates the deep history of the region through murals painted on wheat silos by renowned Australian and international street artists. The trail takes in six of Victoria’s smallest towns – Rupanyup, Sheep Hills, Brim, Rosebery, Lascelles and Patchewollock. The trip between each town and artwork will take about 25 minutes, but that’s no reason not to make the visit to the

Known internationally for her art with exhibitions and streetart walls in Asia and Italy, Sobrane has just completed a massive project in Victoria’s north.

Travel Victoria’s highway gallery region last a day or more with some of the towns offering accommodation, food and side attractions. Book in advance if you want to stay over, is the advice of the experts; it’s not likely there will be a room available if you turn up unannounced. Begin your journey at Rupanyup. Look up at the monochrome mural created by Russian artist Julia Volchkova on the huge metal grain storage bins – a work that was inspired by the local Rupanyup Panthers Football and Netball Club. Stop off at Sheep Hills and see the huge mural by Adnate, an internationally renowned artist, famous

Cam Scales’ silo art at Devenish Graincorp silo.

for his work with Aboriginal communities across Australia. Completed in December 2016 and spread across all six silos, the work consists of four indigenous faces watching over the tiny community of Sheep Hills; with a starry background that has a symbolic significance to the local people. Brim hosts Guido van Helten’s famous Farmer Quartet. Located on the Henty Highway and stretching out across all four of the Brim silos, this massive mural was painted in 2015 as a tribute to the drought-stricken farming community. The tiny town of

Photo: Andy Rogers

Lascelles hosts artwork by celebrated Melbourne artist Tyrone (Rone) Wright. Rone turns his intimate portraiture to giant grain silos, depicting local wheat farmers Geoff and Merrilyn Horman looking out over the rural landscape. Finish the journey along Victoria’s Silo Art Trail at Patchewollock; population 250. Marvel at the work of Brisbane-based street artist Fintan Magee, sometimes referred to as Australia’s Banksy. For more information on the trail, go to siloarttrail.com/home.

Magnificent silo art at the Victorian township of Sheep Hills.

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

Japan for Senior travellers THE Land of the Rising Sun is considered to be one of the most peaceful countries to visit and very suitable to older travellers wanting a comfortable travel experience. Away from its big cities, visitors can still enjoy the traditional Japan. It’s a clean and safe to walk around with good food, friendly people, beautiful gardens and a diverse array of crafts. These are the main reasons why mature age travellers like to visit Japan, says the director of Toursgallery, Ken Osetroff, who has been leading small-group tours to Japan since 1983. “Most of our guests are not so young anymore and appreciate travelling in comfort,” Mr Osetroff said. “Our style of personalised tour attracts many discerning guests who return with us on several different tours to Japan.” Toursgallery continually creates escorted tours designed for people seeking a comfortable Japanese experience. It only accepts 10-15 guests each tour and provides a

No sitting on the floor for dinner.

JAPAN: Everyone loves a geisha.

Toursgallery guests singing songs of the 1960s on karaoke. private luxury coach for touring. “We take all the hard work and worry out of visiting Japan with an Australian Japanese tour

escort and itineraries designed specifically with the interests of older travellers,” Mr Osetroff said. Itineraries are relaxing

with accommodation for two or three nights in spa resorts, top quality western hotels and traditional ryokans. Visits to national parks and gardens, pottery kilns, craft and art museums, rural villages and even a private audience with a monk are all part of Toursgallery’s soft adventure itineraries. Travellers are encouraged to book now

Photos: Toursgallery.com

for travel in May when the springtime blooms of wisteria, iris, azalea and high-country cherry blossoms are at their best. The 17-day Best of Japan Tour costs $10,850 per person and starts on May 5, 2019. Details: Phone 1300 307 317, email travel@toursgallery.com or www.toursgallery.com.

Tour leader Mayumi Gray in a kimono.

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Our Industry Partner

CHESS TOUR: If you haven't played a chess tournament, this tour is a chance for you to experience competing in a relaxed, social environment.

New social chess touring

GO SEE Touring’s newest offering is the Social Chess Tournament and Tour on Norfolk Island, on in July 2019. Gardiner’s Chess general manager Andrew Fitzpatrick will lead the group on the 8-day tour of the unique Norfolk Island which includes three chess tournament days. “I think the people who will be interested in this tour will be seniors who are keen to do a bit of travel, but at the same time be able to play a bit chess while on holiday, so combining two of their passions,” Andrew said. “Anyone can play chess. It doesn’t matter about your age. It’s been shown to help fight dementia and Alzheimer’s. “Chess is a game anyone can play,

‘‘

It will be a good opportunity to learn. anywhere,” he adds. Andrew expects the tournament players will have some experience in playing chess. If you haven’t played a chess tournament previously, this could be the chance for you to have that experience in a relaxed, social environment. The tournament will be held on the Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at the Paradise Hotel and Resort. The director of

play will be former Australian Chess regional liaison officer Allan Menham. “He will be happy to help anyone who is new to tournaments,” Andrew said. “It will be a good opportunity to learn.” Up to $2000 prize money can be won by the podium placegetters and division winners. There are tour group dinners to be enjoyed and for those travellers who have a non-playing partner, there are plenty of things to see and do on the island. There are two departures for this tour Sydney on July 5 and Brisbane on July 6. Details, go to www.goseetouring.com.

Kimalaya Wellness program ON November 1 Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa launched their wellness program Structural Revival in Koh Samui, Thailand. It’s designed to realign the body and improve posture in order to reduce tension, rehabilitate injuries and re-establish the highest levels of function and vitality. Featuring an intelligent synergy of healing modalities from Asia and the west, the program includes specifically targeted revival exercises with physiotherapists, as

RELAX: Structural revival exercise at Kamalaya. well as pilates to strengthen the body and stabilise the joints. Holistic therapies such as myofascial release, assisted stretching and

massages help to release and lengthen tight muscles, promote relaxation and freedom of movement. Focused movement modalities are complemented by spa treatments and an inspired healthy cuisine which helps to manage inflammation with the goal of improving health on all levels. For inquiries, go to kamalaya.com or email reservations@ kamalaya.com.

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

Masters of cricket Tracey Johnstone BACKYARD cricket is one childhood passion seniors can keep doing into their later years. It will help you stay active, social and mentally fit. And for those men and women who just can’t shake their competitive spirit, they can step up from a local friendly club game to pursue state, national and even international competition well into their Master years. Veterans Cricket Australia president Kerry Emery said the interest in Masters cricket has been growing strongly since 2007. “A lot of guys were retiring in their mid-50s and were looking for things to do and people started to think we can still play cricket amongst our peers so let’s start this off,” Mr Emery said. Victorians led the way with other states joining in quite quickly. “They got some old fellows playing within their state and then they started played against each other,” he added.

ACTIVE AGEING: Kerry Emery at his home cricket club on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Photo: Tracey Johnstone “It’s grown from there.” There are now a 50s, 60s and a 70-and-over division with regional, state and national championships run for each of them. In Queensland alone, there are 16 registered teams. The VCA aims to support one Veterans

women’s team in each state by 2020. Keen cricketers can even experience, some for the first time, representing Australia. “We have just had the national over-70s team return from England where they played official one-day cricket matches

against England,” Mr Emery said. Mr Emery has played cricket since his early childhood. “I started in the backyard with Dad and my brother,” Mr Emery, 68, said. He has found it is good for his fitness and mental

health. “It’s a more active men’s shed than a Men’s Shed,” he said. “We’ve had a number of men come to my club who have had depression, who have done it tough with marriage breakdown, alcohol or prostate cancer.

Wellbeing “They have found it a good place to come to.” He says his fellow Master cricketers are still competitive, no matter what age they are. “But everyone understands that there are twinges here and twinges there, or replacement knees or hamstrings that have been reattached,” Mr Emery said. “You just have to play within your limits.” Generally, the player’s cost is about $35 per game day. “You don’t have to have top of the range equipment,” Mr Emery said. If you haven’t played cricket before or not for a long time, Mr Emery said there were plenty of clubs with training days throughout the year when new players could join in and learn about the game. As the Masters players limber up at the Mr Emery’s home club on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, there is plenty of chatter, a lot of happy ribbing and some slick bowling moves. Info: www.veteranscricket australia.com.au.

Octogenarian shows everyone how to stay strong and sexy Alison Houston AGEING is a question of attitude, according to octogenarian Joan McCarthy. And Joan’s attitude is that she may be getting “older”, but that doesn’t mean she has to “be old”. Joan contacted Seniors Newspaper asking why older people, particularly over-70s, had virtually disappeared from life as far as large sections of the media were concerned. Joan, and longtime friend Maureen Smith, have been laying bare myths about older women since their 60s, surveying 200 women to pen their first book, Sixty, Strong and Sexy, followed by Glimpses into the Lives of Positively Ageing Women, when they were in their 70s. Joan believes we need to accept our ageing bodies as something beautiful, rather than seeing wrinkles as ugly and a sign of having passed our use-by date. “Why does society tell us we have to get rid of our wrinkles, have plastic surgery or botox or we aren’t appealing; aren’t

worth it?” she asked. “I don’t feel like the wrinkled face I see in the mirror, but it’s about learning to love that face – that those wrinkles are there because of all the wonderful experiences I have had.” And having dressed as

Wonder Woman’s great-grandmother for her 80th birthday, Joan has proven her point by working as a life artist model – that’s right, the ones who pose nude. “I’ve never had so many amazing compliments in my life,” Joan said.

It’s not that Joan has miraculously escaped all the side-effects of ageing or self-doubts. On the contrary, she felt turning 80 was a real turning point, just as 25 and 50 had been, to work out “where I was meant to be going in this new era of

my life”. After a retreat in Maui, she has a new mantra: If it’s not fun, don’t do it, and if you must do it, make it fun! “I want to be vibrant right up to the end and go out saying... what a ride!” Joan said. For her, that means

eating well – she is vegetarian, and this year gave up dairy (but not ice cream, which she loves) – being active through walking oryoga and always questioning and learning. Books are available at marjobooks.com.au.

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WELLBEING

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Good start for a good year START the new year well by following the Australian Dietary Guidelines top four health tips for older Australians.

■ Low-fat diets are not suitable for children under the age of 2. Limit intake of foods and drinks containing added salt. Read labels to choose lower sodium options among similar foods. ■ Do not add salt to foods in cooking or at the table. Limit intake of foods and drinks containing added sugars such as confectionery, sugarsweetened soft drinks and cordials, fruit drinks, vitamin waters, energy and sports drinks. If you choose to drink alcohol, limit intake.

ACHIEVE AND MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT

Be physically active and choose amounts of nutritious foods and drinks to meet your energy needs. Older people should eat nutritious foods and keep physically active to help maintain their muscle strength and a healthy weight.

CHOOSE FROM THESE FIVE GROUPS EVERY DAY

■ Plenty of vegetables, including different types and colours, and legumes/beans. ■ Fruit. ■ Grain (cereal) foods, mostly wholegrain and/or high cereal fibre varieties, such as bread, cereals, rice, pasta, noodles, polenta, couscous, oats, quinoa and barley. ■ Lean meats and poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, nuts and seeds, and legumes/ beans.

CARE FOR YOUR FOOD - PREPARE AND STORE IT SAFELY

HAPPY APPROACH: Start your new year well with these simple, healthy lifestyle tips. ■ Milk, yoghurt, cheese and/or their alternatives, mostly reduced fat (reduced fat milks are not suitable for children under 2 years). And make sure you drink plenty of water.

LIMIT SATURATED FAT, ADDED SALT, ADDED SUGARS AND ALCOHOL

Limit biscuits, cakes, pastries, pies, processed meats, commercial burgers, pizza, fried

foods, potato chips, crisps and other savoury snacks. ■ Replace high fat foods which contain predominantly saturated fats such as butter, cream, cooking

margarine, coconut and palm oil with foods which contain polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats such as oils, spreads, nut butters/pastes and avocado.

Incorrect handling of food and storing food at inappropriate temperatures are major causes of food poisoning. Particular care should be taken when handling food to be consumed by people who have an increased risk of foodborne illness, such as pregnant women, infants, older people and people with certain medical conditions.

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

WELLBEING

Good advice for eyesight Tracey Johnstone GOOD eye health starts with precaution before a sight problem or refractive error is revealed which can significantly impact on your quality of life. This means getting your eye health tested by your local optometrist every 12 months from the time you hit 60. From the age of 65 you are eligible for a full Medicare rebate for the cost of an annual test. Many eye conditions associated with ageing aren’t immediately obvious to the person. They can sneak up without causing early pain or symptoms and become obvious once damage to the eye has occurred. When up to 90 per cent of blindness in Australia is avoidable or treatable if detected early, it’s a strong argument for staying on top of your eye health. As we age we are prone

to presbyopia, or old eye. This is where the clear lens inside the eye becomes less flexible and less able to change its shape. Optometry Australia’s chief clinical officer Luke Arundel says this can cause difficulties with focusing up close such as when you are reading small print. “It’s very common for people 40 or 45 onwards,” Mr Arundel said. When we find ourselves squinting to help see just a little bit more clearly, we aren’t causing any damage to our eyes, but the muscles around the eyes will tire and tension headaches can follow. And when your arms aren’t long enough to hold a book or newspaper far enough away to read the print, it’s probably time to do something about what is a refractive error in your eyes. Where to start Each time you meet

with your optometrist, you need to tell them what regular medications you are taking and what visual tasks you are doing. “When we prescribe glasses, particularly glasses for close work, the distance that you want to hold your reading material at is very important to us,” Mr Arundel said. “If you are playing bridge and want to look at cards that on a table that is 70cm away, you may need a different prescription from if you want to lie in bed and hold a book 30cm away.” You need to also detail your hobbies, crafts, what type of computer screen you use – a PC or iPad, for example – your sports and recreation activities, and whether you want to wear glasses or contact lenses. With this knowledge the optometrist can tailor your visual solution. The next step is to discuss what type of

EYE HEALTH: When your arms aren’t long enough to read the print, it’s probably time to get your eyes checked by an optometrist. Photo: gpointstudio glasses you want – bifocals which have the top half for distance and a small bottom segment for reading, multifocal or varied focal lens which has the distance at the top with an intermediate zone which might be for computers and a reading zone at the bottom, or separate glasses for reading and distance. “With multifocals, the way that the lenses are designed, there is often a little bit of distortion in the periphery,” Mr Arundel

said. “Not everyone gets used to multifocals or bifocals; possibly as low as one in 30 might. Typically, it’s something that would be covered by an adaption warranty. So, if a patient doesn’t get used to them, often it will be changed at no charge for changing to one pair for distance and one for reading.” Glare protection Other options to consider to help protect your eyes from UV is including transitions or

wearing fit-overs as an alternative to buying a separate pair of prescription sunglasses. Pharmacy glasses This option is often suitable to people who have perfect distance vision, but there are few people who find these magnifier glasses accurately suit their reading distance needs. “The way they are made is that the optical centre of the lens is randomly selected,” Mr Arundel said.

Causes and solutions for dryness in your eyes DRY eye, which is common to older people, can be caused by any number of things so just popping some eye drops in your eyes won’t necessarily be the best treatment choice. Optometry Australia’s resident optometrist Sophie Koh says there are probably underlying issues causing this condition. “It might be some lid disease or inflammation that needs to be treated,” she said. “The tear glands within your lid might be blocked or inflamed.” Other causes could be dietary and systemic health problems such as Sjogren’s or auto-immune disease, thyroid, diabetes

or acne rosacea. An optometrist will talk to a senior about these possible contributing factors plus look at the home and work environments, diet, general health, prolonged exposure to eye irritants and even eye trauma. Dry eye occurs when insufficient tears are produced. Those tears keep the eye lubricated. Every time you blink a thin film of tears are swept over the eye surface. The tears should remain intact between blinks. If your eye doesn’t produce enough tears or the tears don’t stay on the eyes long enough, this can result in the eyeball surface becoming damaged.

Crusting on eyelids Blepharitis, as it is known, is common in seniors. It is characterised by a chronic inflammation of the eyelids. The eyes will feel irritated and crusting of your eyelid and lashes can occur. “If seniors wake up in the morning and their eyes are stuck together or itchy or have what we call sleep in the eye, that is crusting,” Ms Koh said. This happens when the eye is unable to flush away the grit that accumulates around the eye while we are sleeping. Get professional advice While using over-thecounter eye drops seems a simple solution, they

won’t fix the underlying problem. The eyelids may need cleaning, or blocked glands cleared by an optometrist, or there may be other health and environmental issues causing dry eyes. It really is best to visit the optometrist in the first instance before trying any self-medication

strategies. Self-medication Some of the options are: ■ Eye drops, gels or ointments to lubricate the surface of the eye. ■ Wash and gently massage your eyelids while in a warm shower. ■ Increase the humidity in the air at home by placing

bowls of water around the room to evaporate. ■ Check with your GP if your medications have side-affects that include dry eyes. ■ Practice blinking more often, especially when in front of a computer. www.goodvisionforlife. com.au.

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Living

PUSHING BOUNDARIES: The Ozcare Toowoomba aged care facility is set to ensure residents remain an active part of their community with its new design.

New design features are set to revolutionise BRAND INSIGHTS A NEW Toowoomba aged care facility is redefining design boundaries to help a growing number of Queenslanders with dementia and to ensure residents remain an active part of their community. Ozcare’s 150-bed facility near completion at Glenvale, in Toowoomba’s west, is incorporating state-of-the-art design features as demand for residential aged care shifts towards more privacy and staying connected. “We have over 20 years’ experience in aged care in Queensland and we’re responding to a growing demand by residents for privacy and more community interaction within our facilities,” Ozcare’s Head of Aged Care Lanna

The north Greenwattle Street view. Ramsay said. “How people age is different now. Dementia is more prevalent now than ever. We now design our buildings in a way that allows for privacy by offering generous single rooms with private ensuites and balconies. “Older people want aged care facilities to have a relaxed, home-like feel – it’s their home. It’s no longer a demise to come into residential

aged care – people come in to live life.” Some of the features designed to help bring people out of their rooms and bring life to the facility include: ■ Intimate private lounges and dining areas for residents to entertain family and friends ■ Extensive grounds and gardens with walking paths and seating ■ A coffee shop open to the public

■ A children’s playground, putt putt and lawn bowls for family, friends and to bring the wider community into the facility Ms Ramsay said Ozcare’s focus was on keeping people well and agile and bringing meaning and purpose to their lives when they could no longer stay at home. “They are encouraged and supported to keep participating in things they

like to do, both inside and outside of the facility,” Ms Ramsay said. “We help them stay involved in the wider community and also bring the community into our aged care facilities. “We are very keen to have intergenerational activities as part of everyday life such as forming relationships with local childcare centres and schools where kids come in and perform

concerts and read. “With these relationships we will also go out to local childcare centres and schools and get involved in their activities such as art and craft. Some of our facilities are even forming relationships with other aged care facilities in Japan and UK using Skype and other technology.” Features: 150-bed facility; Two secure dementia wings (15 beds each); Residential respite care for people needing short-term care; Retirement village to be built next door (co-located for continuum of care). Address: Greenwattle Street, Glenvale. Ozcare is now accepting early applications for residential aged care at its new Toowoomba facility. Phone 1800 OZCARE (1800 692 273).

What’s in store for 2019? Tracey Johnstone

NEW YEAR: What does the promise of a fresh new year hold in store for you?

THE new year is already here, but it’s not too late to take some time to work out what you want to achieve during the year. New year resolutions can sometimes be hard to work out, or easier just not to do. But every new year really is a super time to look at you and around you to see if you can improve what you are doing and how you are doing it, whether it’s your health, diet, social interactions, physical activities, learning or

travel, or all of them. Here are just a few ideas that might help along the way of starting 2019 with a positive approach: ■ Volunteer with a local community organisation ■ Take up a new learning experience such as joining in Tech Savvy Seniors, U3A or a local craft group ■ Get involved in a modified seniors sport such as Masters cricket or walking netball ■ Learn a new outdoor activity such as lawn bowls or croquet ■ Volunteer as a presenter with the local

U3A ■ Start a small vegetable garden on your balcony or in your backyard ■ Register as an organ donor ■ Ring an old friend who you haven’t contacted for a very long time or write to them, and ask them how they are ■ Start telling someone close to you ‘I love you’ ■ Review and update your retirement plan, or put one together now that you have had time to settle into retirement ■ Live bold – happy, loudly, with joy, because we are all proud to be older Australians

SENIORS \\JANUARY, 2019

Gifting impacts pension Andrew Heaven I WAS recently asked by a couple who assisted their son and his partner with their mortgage costs by giving them $120,000 towards the deposit, what impact that could have on their age pension entitlement. In applying for the age pension, Centrelink applies an assets and income test to determine your entitlement to a pension benefit. Broadly speaking, whichever test delivers the lower pension benefit is the test that will apply. There are limits as to how much an age pension applicant can gift in order to reduce the amount of assets they own to increase their pension entitlement. You are entitled to gift up to $10,000 a year or $30,000 over a five-year period. The same limits apply as a single person or as a couple. If you exceed these limits the amount in excess of the limit is considered a deprived

asset and the excess amount counts as an asset for five years from the time you made the gift. Even though you are applying for the age pension now, as you gifted your son the $120,000 three years ago, $110,000 which exceeds the limit will count as a deprived asset and therefore count for assets test purposes and be deemed under the income test. However, in 2020, once the five years has expired from the date of gifting, it will no longer be counted. Under the assets test, your assessable assets, which exclude the family home for example, are counted at current market value. Your age pension reduces by $3 per fortnight for each $1000 that the assessed value of your assets exceeds the threshold. The current cut-off point for receiving a part age pension for a couple who own their home is assessable assets less than $848,000

Money

PENSION ADVICE: Check the background on Aged Pension limitations before gifting your money to family members. Photo: Andrey Shevchuk ($564,000 for a single). For a non-home owner couple, the threshold will be $1,055,000 ($771,000 for a single). If the $110,000 that is still being assessed (as a result of the $120,000 gift to your son) will exclude you from receiving the age pension, there are a range of options available to reduce your assessed assets. You could: ■ Consider renovating or upgrading the family home as the family home is assets test exempt. ■ Spend money on a holiday. ■ Purchase a funeral bond up to $12,500 per person or pre-pay your funeral and cemetery plot.

Alternatively, you could wait for the five years from the date of gifting to expire and then re-apply for the age pension then. If Centrelink tells you that you have lost your age pension due to exceeding the assets test, but do qualify for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC), what would be your benefits? The CSHC is a concession card that is available to individuals who are Australian resident, of pension age or who do not qualify for the age pension due to their level of income or assets. The benefits of the CSHC include discounted prescriptions for

medicines listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Once the PBS Safety net has been reached you will receive PBS prescriptions without charge for the remainder of the calendar year. You are entitled to access to bulk-billed doctor visits if these are provided by your doctor. Additionally, access to a larger refund for medical costs when you exceed the Medicare safety net. Unlike the age pension, the CSHC is not subject to the asset test. However, it is subject to an income test threshold. The threshold limit is adjusted taxable income (plus deeming from account-

based pensions) of $87,884 a year as a couple or $54,929 a year as a single. To apply, contact the Department of Human Services and request an application for the CSHC. If you have previously been issued a Centrelink Customer Access Number, this number remains current. Applications can be made online at www.human services.gov.au This story first appeared on www.wealth partners.net.au. Any general advice in this story doesn’t take account of personal objectives, financial situation and needs.

Superannuation shines Paul Clitheroe THE end of the year can be a cash squeeze. But it’s also a good opportunity to take stock, and budget permitting, grow your super. Figures from research group SuperRatings show Australians have tightened up their voluntary super contributions over the last 12 months. Maybe the sharemarket highs of 2017/18 have seen us take a breather from actively growing our super, but the average voluntary contribution over the course of 2017/18 was just $1054. That’s 10 per cent less than the previous year. Super funds have seen a short term pull-back in recent weeks, when a major market sell-off impacted fund returns. In the first two weeks of October alone, the Aussie sharemarket fell 4.8 per cent.

‘‘

The bigger picture is that our super has generally enjoyed a good run in recent years. Just how much your super balance felt the squeeze depends on how your nest egg is invested; the greater the exposure to shares, the more your super savings will feel the hit. The thing is, the vast majority of Australians have their super in a balanced style of fund, where your money is spread across a large range of asset classes. The result according to SuperRatings is that $100,000 of super invested in a balanced

option would only have dipped by 2.7 per cent following that 4.8 per cents sharemarket fall. This reflects the benefits of a diverse portfolio. The bigger picture is that our super has generally enjoyed a good run in recent years. Balanced funds have delivered a median return of 9.7 per cent over the year ended September 30, 2018, with five-year gains of 8.3 per cent. Not a bad result at all. Good times should never be taken for granted when investing, and while market dips are likely to impact your super balance, superannuation is, for many Australians, a very long term investment. There is usually ample time for your fund to recover any lost ground. Past returns are never a guide for the future, but $100,000 invested in the median balanced fund 10 years ago could be worth

SUPER ADVICE: Spend time this summer break reviewing your super savings, and maybe adding some more to the pot ahead of your retirement. anywhere from $156,000 to $213,150 today depending on how your particular fund performed. It goes to show that compounding returns really can work magic over time regardless of short

term lows. It’s not a bad idea to use the summer break to get to know your super. If you can, add a bit extra to your super savings – you’ll be glad you did when retirement rolls around.

Paul Clitheroe is Chairman of InvestSMART, Chairman of the Australian Government Financial Literacy Board and chief commentator for Money Magazine.

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