REACH NEW CLIENTS RE FEATU NG TISI R E V D A S WORK
Call us today
5438 7445
Senior Living
‘Of sports cars & snakes’ By Angus Richard BACK in the early 1960’s I purchased a 1949 MG TC sports car. This was unimaginably cool for the time. No, not one of those MG badged Chinese electric devices that glide past you today, their only sound being that of terminal depreciation. No, rather a no roof, racing screens, extractors, side exhaust, petrol powered, lowered projectile with twin bell mouthed inch and a half S.U’s and a Brooklands steering wheel. It was all string backed gloves, white T shirts and Steve McQueen sunglasses. The MG presented in white with small Union Jacks either side and leather bonnet straps, it could not be termed fast, more accurately ‘alarming’! Put simply, I was the undisputed,
gold standard, “Prince of Posers”! This was of course many years ago when you could wander the city center on Sundays without having to contend with a rabble of masked extras from “Lawrence of Arabia”. Indeed it was a time when men were not fighting to use ladies lavatories and years before Chris Bowen was rumored to have been offered a lead role in a remake of the Hollywood blockbuster “Gone with the Wind”!
deeply hurt by significant affront this signifi cant aff ront to my noble intervention and bravery. He got back his breath. Wiped his glasses and shouted… “ Mate, bloody brilliant, you’ve just killed your broken fanbelt! ”
THE WRITE STUFF - Do you have a life story that deserves to be told? Perhaps it’s a tale of triumph or blunder, the happiest moment or a time of profound sorrow. Whatever it is, we’d love to hear it. We’re inviting readers to share their personal stories for publication. We’re not looking for a perfect story, just honest writing so give it a go and send us 400450 words with a title, your name, age and town: editorial@gcnews.com.au
You’re invited
Kilcoy on the Green Registration essential
www.gcnews.com.au
In those days ‘conservation’ had yet to be invented. Snakes were believed to be a real threat to sports car drivers. Those really ‘in the know’ would tell you that if you ran over a snake it could fly up into the driving seat, and you would die. It was thus critical that if running over a snake (which in those days was done at every opportunity) one should hit the brakes as you ran over it to ensure a successful “squish”. So picture me belting home when startlingly I glimpsed a black snake writhing in the road via my rear vision mirror. I had not noticed it
on approach but that rising was not surprising given that myy driving ually like I style was usually omething. had stolen something. d on the I slammed hrew the brakes and threw rse. MG into reverse. Hard on the accelerator I er was back over it grabbing the ‘fly off ’ handbrake to lock the rearr wheels. Then off with ot the handbrake, foot down in first and back over the monster once more, then again and again and again! oke I had Wreathed in smoke opriate visions of an appropriate m the presentation from great Clem Jones who was sbane. Lord Mayor of Brisbane. Perhaps a medal or at tificate least a framed certifi rage to honour my courage and outstanding civic ly duty to be formally acknowledged at a tasteful Town Hall reception. Single ved handedly I had saved Trout Street from this reptilian horror! As I came to a halt in a cyclone of burning rubber and brake linings I noticed the fellow who had been mowing his front lawn draped over the fence in hysterical laughter. I was
Get ready for a fun-filled afternoon and meet the team behind GemLife Kilcoy Greens, the stunning new over-50s lifestyle resort now under construction at Woolmar. Kilcoy on the Green is a family-friendly featuring live entertainment, refreshments and family-friendly games. This is a great opportunity to discover the range of homes and resort facilities on offer. Be there on the day to enter the draw to win great prizes. DATE
Thursday, 19 February 2026
TIME
2pm to 5pm
WHERE
GemLife Kilcoy Greens, 1 Settlers Rise, Woolmar
RSVP
Register online by Wednesday, 18 February at GemLife.com.au/onthegreen
Glasshouse Country & Maleny News, Tuesday January 13, 2026 PAGE 21
Senior Living
A platinum promise Caloundra couple celebrate their 70 year marriage with platinum anniversary celebration IT was December 17, 1955, when Allan and Nancy Schafer stood before family and friends and promised a lifetime together. Last month, that promise reached a remarkable milestone, with the couple celebrating 70 years of marriage. Allan and Nancy first met through local soccer and dance circles, and that shared love of movement and connection has remained a constant throughout their lives. Before settling on the Sunshine Coast, Allan trained as a bootmaker, and later became a familiar face in the community during 25 years as a milk vendor, before finishing his working years as a Caltex driver. Nancy was equally industrious, working in umbrella manufacturing before discovering her creative passion as a florist, with her arrangements earning recognition at the
Maleny Show. Together, the Schafers raised three children and now enjoy a growing family that includes nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. After spending 21 years at Caloundra Rise Retirement Village, the couple moved into residential aged care last April. Despite the change, their enthusiasm for social connection remains undiminished. Known for their warmth and approachability, Allan and Nancy are regular participants in activities and well known for sharing a
laugh with staff and fellow residents. “Allan and Nancy truly embody the spirit of our home,” SCC Caloundra Residential Manager Karen Wilson said. “They have a wonderful way of making everyone feel included, and it’s a joy to witness a bond that has lasted seventy years.” Their anniversary celebration brought together family and lifelong friends, serving as a reminder that while times change, enduring love and shared history remain timeless.
Allan and Nancy Schafer on their wedding day, and now.
Wendy, Bill and Colleen. Inset: Bill and Nicci.
This year, say yes to getting out and enjoying some great company By Glasshouse Country Care HAVE you been feeling a little lonely? You’re not alone – and the New Year is the perfect time to do something about it. This year make a resolution to say yes to getting out and about. Meeting new people and having something to look forward to can make a world of difference. Staying
socially active helps keep your mind sharp, boosts your mood and supports better overall health as well. The Glasshouse Country Care Seniors Social Group is all about connection, laughter and enjoying good company, and they make it easy. Group members are picked up from home, enjoy meals and activities in the local area (and beyond), and are dropped home again at the end of the day.
No driving, no planning, no stress. Just bring yourself and a smile. Why stay at home when you could be sharing a laugh and enjoying a chat with new friends? Glasshouse Country Care would love to help you turn a simple New Year’s resolution into brighter, more enjoyable days. Call them on 07 5494 6948 to find out more about their social group program.
Support at Home The new Support at Home program !" #$%$ &%$' (
352 Peachester Rd, Beerwah
Call us on 07 5494 6948 PAGE 22 Glasshouse Country & Maleny News, Tuesday January 13, 2026
www.gcnews.com.au
Senior Living
Living Gems Moreton Bay Seniors invited to free Tai Chi SUNSHINE Coast residents are being invited to slow down, stretch and reconnect with their bodies at a series of free Taoist Tai Chi Open House events being held in January and February 2026. Hosted by the Taoist Tai Chi Society of Australia, the Open Houses give the public a chance to experience the gentle movements of tai chi, a practice known worldwide for supporting lifelong health and wellbeing. Suitable for people of all ages and health conditions, tai chi is widely recognised for helping relieve stress, improve balance and posture, and ease back pain. The free sessions are designed especially for beginners, with no prior experience required. Attendees will meet trained instructors, learn about the health benefits of Taoist Tai Chi® and be guided through
www.gcnews.com.au
introductory movements in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Organisers say the slow, flowing movements help improve body awareness, strength, flexibility and circulation, while supporting mental calm. “These Open Houses give people an opportunity to try tai chi for themselves and see how accessible it can be,” a society spokesperson said. Free Open House events will be held at Caloundra Uniting Church Hall, 56c Queen Street, on Saturday January 31 from 11am to 12pm, and at Landsborough School of Arts Memorial Hall, 485 Old Landsborough Road, on Tuesday February 3 from 7pm to 8pm and Thursday February 5 from 9.30am to 10.30am. More information is available by emailing seq@ taoisttaichi.org, calling 1800 108 801 or visiting www. taoisttaichi.org.
Elevated boutique living for over-50s By Living Gems LIVING Gems Moreton Bay will be designed for those who believe life after 50 should feel lighter, freer and far more enjoyable. When complete, this $140 million boutique lifestyle resort will offer the kind of everyday experience usually reserved for holidays, combining modern living with a relaxed coastal atmosphere. Guided by over 40 years of Living Gems family expertise in delivering premium lifestyle resorts, Living Gems Moreton Bay will be designed to feel welcoming from the very beginning. The resort will prioritise a boutique atmosphere, using thoughtful design, landscaped surrounds and carefully positioned homes to create a sense of calm. This approach will allow residents to feel connected to their community without giving up privacy or space. Daily life at the resort will be shaped around choice. Mornings may begin with a meandering walk or a leisurely swim, followed by
time spent in the $13 million country club, which will act as a central gathering place for residents. Social activities, wellness spaces and leisure facilities will be available, while still allowing residents to enjoy quiet moments at home whenever they wish.
clarity and transparency for the future. This approach will allow residents to retain the value of their home and maintain greater control over their finances. For many, this will create the opportunity to downsize without compromising lifestyle or financial
Financial peace of mind. The land lease model will be one of the defining features of Living Gems Moreton Bay. By purchasing their home and leasing the land, homeowners will avoid exit fees and deferred management fees, offering
flexibility. The model will support a lifestyle that encourages travel, connection with family and the confidence to enjoy life without unnecessary restrictions. Perfectly positioned for bayside living.
The resort’s location within the Moreton Bay region will further enhance its appeal. Residents will be close to coastal attractions, waterfront dining and nature experiences, while still enjoying easy access to essential services and major retail hubs. It will be a location that feels both connected and comfortably removed from the pace of city life. Security and peace of mind will be built into everyday living. With gated access, onsite management and a lock-up-and-leave design, residents will be able to travel or enjoy time away knowing their home and community will be well cared for. Once complete, Living Gems Moreton Bay will offer a lifestyle that blends comfort, security and freedom. It will be a place where every day is designed to feel like a getaway and where the future looks relaxed, social and full of possibility. Register your interest at LivingGems.com. au
Glasshouse Country & Maleny News, Tuesday January 13, 2026 PAGE 23
Senior Living
Meals that deliver more than food Greater seniors protection
Locally sourced meals bringing dignity and peace of mind By RangeCare AT RangeCare, we know that food is more than fuel. It is comfort, dignity, and a reminder that someone cares. That’s why our Freeze & Heat Meal program has become such an important part of life across the Sunshine Coast. What may look like a simple service freshly prepared meals, frozen and delivered weekly is in fact a lifeline. For seniors, people recovering from illness, or anyone who finds cooking a challenge, these meals are more than convenience. They are reassurance: that nourishment is accessible, that quality is never compromised, and that no one in our community should have to settle for unhealthy options. Deliveries are made weekly, with fees waived for Home Care Package clients. This isn’t just about food it’s about independence. Meals
are easy to reheat, giving clients the freedom to enjoy them when it suits their routine. From roast garlic and rosemary lamb to crispy lemon and herb chicken, from vegetable quiche to spinach and ricotta cannelloni, our menu is crafted to bring warmth and familiarity to the table. Seasonal soups add variety, and with prices starting around $10–$11 per meal, we’ve ensured that quality dining remains affordable for households on fixed incomes. The true impact of this program goes far beyond the plate. By sourcing ingredients locally, we support regional farmers and suppliers. By delivering consistently, we provide peace of mind to families. And by offering hearty, nourishing food, we restore the simple joy of a warm meal. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when supermarket shelves were
bare, our Freeze & Heat Meals became a lifeline. That resilience is part of who we are: a community organization that adapts, supports, and delivers when it matters most. As a proud part of the Sunshine Coast community,
RangeCare is committed to ensuring that care is practical, affordable, and deeply human. Our Freeze & Heat Meal program is proof that meal delivery can be about more than calories. It can be about connection, dignity, and trust.
A LANDMARK report aimed at strengthening protections for older Queenslanders has been handed down, marking an important step forward in addressing elder abuse and promoting dignity, safety and respect in later life. The report of the Parliamentary Inquiry into Elder Abuse was delivered to the Crisafulli Government last month, following an extensive statewide investigation into the causes, impacts and prevention of abuse against older people. The Committee received 120 written submissions from community members, Members of Parliament and leading advocacy organisations, including Aged and Disability Advocacy Australia, Council on the Ageing Queensland and the Queensland Council of Social Services. Public hearings were held across
the state, including in Brisbane, the Gold Coast and on the Sunshine Coast, ensuring local voices were heard. Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services Amanda Camm said the Government was committed to protecting older people from harm and ensuring their rights were upheld. “Establishing the Parliamentary Inquiry into Elder Abuse was a clear reflection of our dedication to protecting the rights and dignity of older Queenslanders,” she said. “The findings provide valuable insight and we will carefully consider the Committee’s recommendations.” Support is available for anyone concerned about elder abuse. Information can be found at www.qld. gov.au/stopelderabuse or by calling the confidential Helpline on 1300 651 192.
^ƵƉƉŽƌƚŝŶŐ zŽƵƌ /ŶĚĞƉĞŶĚĞŶĐĞ ǀĞƌLJ ^ƚĞƉ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ tĂLJ ƚ ZĂŶŐĞ ĂƌĞ͕ ǁĞ ŽĨĨĞƌ ƚŚĞ ĨƵůů ƌĂŶŐĞ ŽĨ ŝŶͲŚŽŵĞ͕ ƐŽĐŝĂů͕ ĂŶĚ ƌĞƐƉŝƚĞ ƐƵƉƉŽƌƚ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ ƚŽ ŚĞůƉ LJŽƵ ůŝǀĞ ŝŶĚĞƉĞŶĚĞŶƚůLJ ĨŽƌ ĂƐ ůŽŶŐ ĂƐ ƉŽƐƐŝďůĞ͘ ZĂŶŐĞ ĂƌĞ ĐĂŶ ƐƵƉƉŽƌƚ LJŽƵ ďLJ͗ ZĂŶŐĞ Ğ ĂƌĞ ĐĂŶ ƐƵƉƉŽƌƚ LJ ƚ LJŽƵ ďLJ͗ LJ͗ /ŶͲ,ŽŵĞ WĞ /ŶͲ,ŽŵĞ WĞƌƐŽŶĂů ĂŶĚ EƵƌƐŝŶŐ ĂƌĞ WĞƌƐŽŶĂů ĂŶĚ EƵ EƵƌƐŝŶŐ ĂƌĞ ƌĞ tĞůůŶĞƐƐ ĂŶĚ ZĞĐƌĞĂƚŝŽŶĂů ĐƚŝǀŝƚŝĞƐ tĞůůŶĞƐƐ ĂŶĚ Z Ě ZĞĐƌĞĂƚŝŽŶ ŽŶĂů Đƚŝǀ ŝǀŝƚŝĞƐ ^ŽĐŝĂů ĞŶƚƌĞƐ ĂŶĚ /Ŷ ,ŽŵĞ ^ƵƉƉŽƌƚ ^ŽĐŝĂů ĞŶƚƌĞƐ ĂŶĚ /Ŷ ,ŽŵĞ ŶĚ /Ŷ ,ŽŵĞ ŵĞĞ ^ƵƉƉŽƌƚ ^ ŽŵĞƐƚŝĐ ƐƐŝƐƚĂŶĐĞĞ KǀĞƌŶŝŐŚƚ ZĞƐƉŝƚĞ ;&ůĂdžƚŽŶͿ DĞĂů ĞůŝǀĞƌLJ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ dĞĐŚŶŽůŽŐLJ ^ƵƉƉŽƌƚ WƌŽŐƌĂŵƐ ,ŽŵĞ DĂŝŶƚĞŶĂŶĐĞ Θ DŽĚŝĨŝĐĂƚŝŽŶƐ
Ϭϳ ϱϰϰϱ ϳϬϰϰ
^ĐĂŶ ŚĞƌĞ ƚŽ ůĞĂƌŶ ŵŽƌĞ ĂďŽƵƚ ŽƵƌ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ͘
ǁǁǁ͘ƌĂŶŐĞĐĂƌĞ͘ĐŽŵ͘ĂƵ
PAGE 24 Glasshouse Country & Maleny News, Tuesday January 13, 2026
&ŝŶĚ ƵƐ ŽŶ͗ &ŝŶĚ www.gcnews.com.au
Senior Living
Preserve treasured memories DO you have treasured family photos you want to preserve for future generations? Sunshine Coast Libraries is offering a free photo preservation station at Maleny, giving residents the chance to digitise and safeguard their memories. The station allows users to scan printed photographs up to A4 size, 35mm slides, film negatives including 35mm, medium format and 4 x 5 inch, as well as documents. Participants will need intermediate computer skills to operate a Windows laptop, or bring someone to assist. Visitors must supply their own storage device. The photo preservation station will be available in Maleny from Tuesday January 27 to Saturday February 21. Sessions are weekdays. Registration is essential.
New lifestyle destination to set the bar in over-50s living
By GemLife Elimbah A MAJOR lifestyle milestone is on the horizon at GemLife Elimbah, with work about to begin on the resort’s $18 million Country Club. Purpose-designed for active over-50s, the new Country Club will offer an expansive array of health, wellness, social, and recreation facilities – all under one roof. Taking cues from the relaxed, sunlit lifestyle of South East Queensland, the two-storey building blends comfort and sophistication with state-of-the-art amenities, creating an
uplifting and communityfocused environment for residents. The ground level features a grand ballroom with a theatre stage, a fully equipped gym, and a heated magnesium-infused lap pool, and championshipgrade lawn bowls greens. Upstairs, the focus turns to leisure and entertainment with a plush private cinema, modern library, and games room complete with a cutting-edge golf simulator. According to GemLife Elimbah Sales Manager Glenys Lowry, the new Country Club will be the beating heart of the resort, and a true lifestyle
You’re invited
Country Club Preview Information Session Registration essential
www.gcnews.com.au
destination for homeowners to enjoy. “We’re really proud of what’s being created here,” said Glenys. “The Country Club has been designed to support a rich and rewarding lifestyle – whether that’s through staying active, meeting new people, or just enjoying a beautiful, purpose-built space to relax in.” Set among peaceful, green surrounds on Atherton Road in Caboolture, GemLife Elimbah has already attracted strong interest from buyers looking for a vibrant yet tranquil place to call home. To give locals a first look
at what’s ahead, GemLife will host a special Country Club information session on Thursday, 29 January, from 10am to 1pm at the resort. Attendees will enjoy a theatre-style presentation by GemLife Chief Operating Officer Andrew Coulter, who will unveil the master plan and take guests behind the scenes of the Club’s contemporary design and standout lifestyle features. “This event is a fantastic opportunity for prospective homeowners to come along and see the bold vision that’s coming to life at GemLife Elimbah,” Ms Lowry said. “It’s a glimpse into a whole new way of living,
designed specifically for over-50s who want more out of their next chapter.” GemLife Elimbah, now selling, is a $428 million lifestyle resort located close to local shopping and the best the Moreton Bay region has to offer. When complete, the resort will feature 404 premium, low-maintenance homes designed for active and independent over 50s. The GemLife Elimbah Country Club preview will take place onsite at the resort. Registrations are essential and can be made online at www.gemlife. com.au/gelcc by Tuesday, January 27.
Be among the first to preview the bold vision for the GemLife Elimbah Country Club – a state-of-the-art lifestyle destination for homeowners of our new over-50s resort. Join us onsite for an information session, including the unveiling the master plan for this signature facility, and learn about the next chapter of the GemLife Elimbah story. Take an exclusive look at the Country Club’s design, features and lifestyle amenities. Afterwards, stay for a relaxed meet-and-greet with light refreshments. DATE
Thursday, 29 January 2026
TIME
10am to 1pm
WHERE
GemLife Elimbah (access via Semple Lane) 38 Atherton Road, Caboolture
RSVP
Register online by Tuesday, 27 January at GemLife.com.au/gelcc
Glasshouse Country & Maleny News, Tuesday January 13, 2026 PAGE 25
Senior Living
Happy New EARS Maleny! SOUNDS Good Sunshine Coast would like to wish everybody a Happy New Year. Holiday periods are an important time to share with family and friends and can be a troublesome time for those with hearing loss or poorly performing hearing aids. If you noticed difficulty understanding speech and conversations in small groups and background noise it may be time to have a hearing check-up. It could be as simple as a build-up of wax, or a small change to
your hearing levels but Sounds Good can help and discuss solutions to hearing concerns. Situated opposite the Neighbourhood Centre in Maleny’s Bicentenary Lane, Sounds Good has been helping the locals of Maleny and surrounds with their hearing needs for years. The clinic is owned and operated by Ben Small, a Maleny local, who has been in the hearing industry for nearly 30 years. His experience means you get the best information and evaluations regarding
hearing concerns and management, and the with the clinic being independent, solutions for hearing loss can be sourced from multiple hearing aid manufacturers. Being independent allows choice, which you will not get from other hearing providers in the area. If you had difficulty over the holidays and have not had a hearing test before, the solution is as easy as phoning Ben at the clinic to arrange an appointment. If you already wear hearing aids and feel they are not
optimally programmed for your needs, Sounds Good can also help. All makes and models of hearing aids can be assessed and programmed at the clinic. As Ben conducts home visit appointments, it is always best to phone ahead of coming in to have a chat in person. Although the clinic operates Monday to Friday and Saturday by appointment at times the office will be unattended for drop ins. Contact Ben on 0410467090 or email soundsgoodsc@outlook. com.
S O U N D S G O O D maleny HEARING CLINIC LOCAL | INDEPENDENT | EXPERIENCED
y Testing and advice y Wax removal y Hearing aids and rehabilitation y Clinic and mobile services 0410 467 090 8/43 MAPLE STREET, MALENY SOUNDSGOODSC@OUTLOOK.COM WWW.SOUNDSGOODSC.COM.AU
SENIOR LIVING
ADVERTISING FEATURE Does your business support seniors? Be seen in our monthly Senior Living pages. Book into more than one edition to get discounted rates!
BONUS EDITORIAL CONTACT OUR TEAM or Lewis today! Phone 5438 7445 or advertising@gcnews.com.au INCLUDED Talk to Tina
PAGE 26 Glasshouse Country & Maleny News, Tuesday January 13, 2026
www.gcnews.com.au