Your Time Brisbane - February 2026

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My one and only rock climb was in 1987 with a local legend at the time – Col Smithies, I believe.

Col took me and my husband on the climb as part of a group ascending Mount Tibrogargan in the Glass House Mountains. His words still ring in my ears: “When you look at a mountain, you often just see the hard way up. There’s always an easy way.”

We then seemed to proceed to take the hardest ‘easy route’ possible!

Col taught us to free climb by showing us how to use even the smallest protruding rock ‘ledges’ to lift ourselves skyward.

At one point, we did some abseiling in harnesses. But the true leap of faith came when we were harnessed, helmeted up and asked to follow his roped path.

In essence, we were walking straight out into oblivion (with a 300m drop), guided by encouraging voices out of sight, before taking a 90-degree turn toward the rest of the waiting party.

Those first few tentative steps were the hardest of my life.

We all celebrated by eating our lunch on what is known as ‘the gorilla’s forehead’

(the mountain looks like an ape from a certain angle). But while it was exhilarating, the climb was never something I ever wanted to repeat.

That’s what makes Ian Elliott’s hobby and accomplishments so amazing. The 73-year-old climbs mountains – just for fun.

For our cover story this month, journalist Janine Hill interviewed this fascinating former cane farmer who is so inspiring, filmmaker Matt Raimondo made him the subject of an acclaimed documentary.

While Ian has climbed in other parts of the world, he finds regular exercise on Mount Coolum near his home.

Now, most people, including myself, have enjoyed the glorious views from the top of that mountain after a slow but steady 2km, Grade 4 (Hard) walk to the summit.

That’s not the way Ian likes to do it, preferring to challenge himself using harnesses and ropes on a rock climb. More power to him, I say.

But if you like keeping your two feet on the ground, travel writer Cath Johnsen has you covered as she takes a day trip to discover the rich heritage, grand old buildings and thriving arts and dining scene in Ipswich.

So grab a cuppa, take a seat and enjoy this month’s magazine!

Shirley Sinclair Editor

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Your ‘Everest’ may be found much closer to home

JANINE HILL keeps her feet firmly on the ground as she speaks with an inspiring older athlete who is always striving to reach new fitness heights.

Look up ‘popular leisure pursuits for people in their 70s’ and you will find gardening, walking, swimming, painting and travel high on the list.

Rock climbing? Well, you might have to turn the page and the next one and a few more, but that is exactly what 73-year-old Ian Elliott does for fun.

His interest in rock climbing has taken him on adventures, transported him to legend status in the sport and put him on the big screen.

A short film about his age-defying exploits, simply titled Ian, made the line-up of the 2025 Banff Mountain Film Festival: a prestigious international film competition focusing on sports, mountain culture and the environment.

For the retired Sunshine Coast cane

farmer, the attention is all a bit of a lark.

After all, rock climbing is something he has been doing for years, although he was a bit of a late bloomer.

A keen bushwalker who had done four- and five-day treks with his partner Jeanette through rough, trail-less back country, he progressed to rock climbing in middle age, doing his first serious climbing with ropes and harness at Girraween National Park, near Stanthorpe, about 1996.

“We’d gone out to the Sphinx, that area of Girraween, and met some people there who were rock climbing and they said, ‘Do you want to have a go? Here’s a harness, a pair of shoes and off you go’ sort of thing,” he says.

“They were top roping. They had a rope up and belayers underneath. The rope’s

always going up to an anchor above you so you can’t really fall. That’s how I started.

“I thought, ‘This is fun. I like this. This is good’. That’s when I started doing a bit more and it just sort of kept going. It’s one way of going places and doing things.”

By 2004-05, Ian was seriously into climbing. He was travelling to Thailand for a month to climb with climbers all around the world.

Ian climbed several times a year with the son of friends but when that person was drawn towards a different activity, Ian looked for other climbing options such as Mount Coolum, just down the road from his home at Yaroomba, on the Sunshine Coast.

“I’d been overseas and climbed over there in South Thailand, and I came back here and didn’t have anyone to climb with anymore,” he recalls.

“I looked up ‘rock climbing on the Sunshine Coast’ and there was a comment in there on one of the web pages about Matt Eaton bolting routes at Coolum cave.

“I’d been up there in 1998 and we

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hadn’t seen any sign of any climbing there at all. This was 2005, maybe early 2006.”

Ian went along, met Matt and another nearby resident, Frey Yule, who both climbed several times a week. And so he began climbing with them regularly at Mount Coolum.

All climbs are named and graded. Just before his 70th birthday, Ian tackled a long and hard climb at Mount Coolum called Call of Duty: an extension of another climb known as Weapon of Choice and graded at 28, which is regarded as reasonably difficult.

“The grades are open ended. It’s up around 37, 38 now,” he says.

“There’s only about two or three climbers in the world who climb at those grades. You’re getting a lot more younger climbers now who are spending a lot more time in the gym.

“When I started climbing, very few people climbed those grades. That’s a whole different story: the evolution of climbing around the world and … the levels of difficulty people are climbing now and the amount of training they’re doing to do it.

“People are climbing much harder stuff.”

Ian tries to climb at least once a week.

“There’s a group of us around the Coast

who climb there regularly,” he says. “We all know each other so you can go virtually any time.

“We have a contact group so you know who’s going to be there and when.

“You just rock up and go for a climb.

“You only ever do two or three (climbs) because it’s hard work.

“It’s also very social up there. Coolum is one of the most social areas you’ll find.”

One of the major attractions of climbing for Ian is the opportunity to forget about the rest of the world for a while.

“The most enjoyable are climbs of what I call mid-range of difficulty,” he says.

“They’re not particularly physically challenging but more mentally challenging, some of the longer ones. But it’s just an enjoyable thing being out there.

“It’s something about the focus, climbing. You’ve got to focus on what’s in front of you.

“That’s a similarity with bushwalking as well. If you’re bushwalking in hard country, you’ve got to focus on your walking all the time. You can’t be thinking about anything else.

“You’ve just got to focus on your walking, where you’re going to put your foot next, while trying to look around and enjoy the scenery.”

Years of practice mean Ian slips into the mental zone for climbing.

“The switching off, the focus and the control of your thoughts become much easier the more that you do it,” Ian says.

“I don’t find it stressful. If you’re on familiar territory, it’s much easier because you know how everything’s going but even unfamiliar climbs that I’ve been on, you know your ability.”

Ian regards his age as an asset as a climber: “I’m a lot older and more cautious than a lot of younger climbers. That comes with the territory. I analyse the risks much more than younger people do and work out where it’s all good.”

His only injuries to date have been to a

finger tendon, a partially torn hamstring and some bursitis behind a knee.

“The thing that stops you climbing, basically, is injury and I haven’t had any injuries that have been significant enough to stop me climbing,” he says.

Regular climbing helps Ian maintain his core and upper body strength, as do plenty of pull-ups.

“In any sort of climbing, it’s good to have that strength,” he says.

“Everyone really needs core strength because if your foot slips or something like that when you’re walking, that’s what stops the whole of you going.

“That strength in there allows you to control your whole body. That’s one of the advantages of that sort of training.”

Ian hopes Matt Raimondo’s documentary, which focuses very much on his climbing at Coolum cave, will help others realise what they can achieve.

“Matt just thought it would be an interesting story because there’s not that many 70-year-old climbers,” Ian says.

“There are a number of them around the world but it’s not that common: 70-year-old climbers climbing that sort

of difficulty. Some of the younger climbers have said that they can see that their bodies don’t have to stop them from climbing if they want to keep climbing.

“There’s not an end date. There probably is an end date but it’s probably not until you’re well into your 70s.”

Ian subscribes to the ‘use it or lose it’ theory when it comes to fitness and ageing.

He says physical activity such as rock climbing assists with maintaining bone density and balance, reducing the risk of falls, and being outdoors is good for mental health. Although weIl aware that everyone has an end date, his is not in sight yet.

He remembers a group of four Japanese, the youngest in his mid-60s and the oldest in his 80s, whom he saw climbing in Thailand.

“They would come and climb quite difficult climbs, even the old guy. I’d seen him climb,” Ian says.

“He might have to have a rest. He wouldn’t fall but he might have to have a rest on a rope.

“He was in his 80s and still enjoying climbing, so it’s really just a matter of ‘if you want to do it, you can’.”

Life in the slow lane

By Mocco Wollert

THEY used to be known as ‘men in blue’: our police force.

Now, I am pretty sure, there are just as many women as men serving in the police force and wearing the blue uniform.

Why would I want to write about the police? Because I want to honour them and to acknowledge that they are a strong – maybe the last – barrier against chaos and lawlessness in our society.

Comparing the role of police from the time when I came to Australia to now shows that things are very different. They have changed a lot.

One thing was for sure: signing up to be a police officer then did not also mean to sign up to lay your life on the line every day.

The attitude towards police by a large element of population has changed dramatically. And not for the better!

To show the height of stupidity to me was when I listened to a woman speaking on a radio show, complaining

that police were ‘hiding’ so they could trap people who are speeding.

She demanded that there should be warning signs: ‘Speed trap ahead’, so drivers could slow down. I can assure you it is true.

Then, there are the complainers that police are just out there to collect revenue. As far as I am concerned, the more perpetrators caught –people driving over the speed limit or when intoxicated – the better. One only has to look at the road-death statistics to endorse anything to bring those numbers down.

Police used to be treated with respect. A warning word to a youngster would have immediate results, usually backed up by concerned parents.

Officers did not have to draw their weapons to keep a criminal in check.

Nobody would have dared to damage a police vehicle.

The role of a police officer has changed drastically. It once was the role of the police to maintain law and order. Now, they also must be counsellors, advisers, confidantes, child protectors and social workers, and arbitrators in domestic violence situations – just to name a few.

I feel very much for police officers who have to draw their weapon and, even worse, have to fire it and kill the criminal who is threatening the general public or them.

I am sure when they committed to ‘serve and protect’ the citizens of Australia, they didn’t expect killing to be part of everyday duties like a soldier who goes to war. I am sure, despite counselling or whatever other help is available, it will impact their and their family’s lives forever.

Were I a police officer, I don’t think I could control myself when confronted with a criminal caught committing a serious crime or even murder. I might just want to apply the ‘eye for an eye’ principle on the spot before he or she’d get off ‘on a technicality’ and leave the court scot-free.

May your life be safe and not need the attention of police.

Email mocco.wollert@bigpond.com

an adventure

By Cheryl Lockwood

MANY people claim they cannot sing. I’ve probably said it myself at times.

However, you don’t have to have pipes like Sinatra or Adele to enjoy this feel-good activity. I was lucky enough to take part in a Café Choir and I was surprised at just how happy this made me feel. Community choirmaster Gen Douw, based in the Noosa hinterland and Sunny Coast, runs this event.

Basically, it’s a workshop where a group of people get together, learn a song in the space of two hours and then perform it at a local venue.

Generally, this is at a nearby café – and latte-sipping patrons get surprise entertainment, flash mob-style.

You may have heard of Pub Choir, a similar concept founded in Brisbane by Astrid Jorgensen.

Astrid teaches a song to a large group (think more than a 1000 people) and the result is recorded and shared on social media.

Café Choir may be much smaller, but with about 50 of us attending, we certainly turned some heads with our performance.

If you’ve seen Pub Choir, then you couldn’t miss the huge smiles all round. It’s obvious everyone is having a ball.

Could it be possible that belting out a tune can

actually invoke cheerfulness? Scientists believe that singing releases endorphins, serotonin and dopamine, which boost your mood, making you feel happy. You may even continue to feel uplifted and positive for some time after a good singing session.

Singing engages the muscles around the rib cage and increases lung capacity. So, there’s some serious exercise right there. It can help you relax and lessen stress levels. It can even help improve the memory (but I can never remember all the lyrics to any song and there are many tunes that I’ve been singing incorrectly for years).

As teenagers, we teased our mother for her terrible singing – horrible brats that we were. We did exaggerated imitations of what we called her ‘church voice’. It didn’t stop her from joining the local choir.

She may not have been the lead soprano and probably never did a solo, but it gave her so much joy to be a part of that group of singers.

As an adult, I realised this and was very proud of her for doing something she

wanted to do and am especially glad that she ignored her cheeky children.

Mum would tell us, “The woods would be very silent if no birds sang there except those that sang the best.”

Now, mum had many sayings, so I thought she made it up. But it’s part of a quote by author Henry Van Dyke. The words, “Use what talents you possess” make up the first part of that quote.

When you burst into song with other people, there is a sense of togetherness.

If you don’t hit every note perfectly, believe me, it will be masked by all those other voices. Being part of something so uplifting removes any nerves you may have about singing in public.

I love to sing, but I never imagined I’d be standing on a footpath, belting out Crowded House’s Don’t Dream It’s Over with the gusto of a rockstar.

I’m more of a shower singer with no audience involved.

Incidentally, I saw Crowded House perform live in a pub in Adelaide some decades ago and I daresay I sang along at full volume with the rest of the audience, possibly with some wrong words.

I now hope the surviving members of the band see the online video of our rendition of their hit song as I’m sure they’d be impressed.

May you all sing until your heart’s content!

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No, not the replacement surgery type of ‘hip’. It’s a selection of on-trend snippets that could include places to dine, travel destinations, where to shop, what to see and visit, as well as what to watch, read and listen to, so you can stay up to date with family, friends and neighbours of all ages.

Back in the day …

THE Jackson 5 (later known as The Jacksons) made their TV debut on American Bandstand on

February 21, 1970 – a time when ‘Jacksonmania’ was taking over America and the world. The five Jackson brothers – Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon and very young Michael – originally formed their pop group in Gary, Indiana, in 1964, managed by their father Joe Jackson. The Jackson 5 made the world sit up and take notice of their unique sound, with hits including ABC, I Want You Back and I’ll Be There and became one of the biggest groups on the planet. It was the springboard for Michael’s solo career. The making of his 1992 Dangerous World Tour is told in MJ The Musical, coming to QPAC’s Lyric Theatre from March. Get tickets via mjthemusical.com. au/tickets/brisbane/

Proudly Australian owned & operated since 1970

What to watch

IT’S a new series that seems to nod to the movies

PS I Love You (starring Gerard Butler and Hilary Swank) and 2 Hearts (starring Brisbane boy and Hollywood heartthrob Jacob Elordi), balancing drama with tasteful comedy and Aussie wit. The Stan original series Dear Life has acclaimed Aussie actress Brooke Satchwell in the lead as Lillian. The part-time worker at Ballarat’s Sovereign Hill historical attraction is still grieving the sudden death of her doctor fiancé Ash. To help claw her way out of the depths of darkness, she illegally starts to track down and make connections with the recipients of his organs. While lighter than the storyline suggests, Dear Life covers a lot of ground and highlights many grey areas of concern for organ donors, their families, recipients and their loved ones. Satchwell is sensational in the lead, ably supported by Eleanor Matsuura, Ryan Johnson and Ben Lawson. Highly recommended and (spoiler alert) a second series may be on the cards, given how the first one ends.

What to read (and book)

What to listen to

CAN you believe it’s been 25 years since The Secret Life of Us first aired? Acclaimed actor and producer Spencer McLaren is helping us reacquaint ourselves with one of Australia’s most culture-defining TV series in a special season of his podcast McLaren Versus. Set in St Kilda in Victoria and premiering in 2001, The Secret Life of Us captured the raw, messy, hilarious truth of being in your 20s — an authentic look at friendship, love, ambition and heartbreak. Now, McLaren, who starred as Richie Blake, brings together the cast and creative alumni for a candid, warm, deeply nostalgic celebration of the series and its legacy. The new podcastseason is now available, with video episodes on YouTube.

Save the date (and book)

IF YOU’RE like me, you’re busily reading/re-reading Emile Bronte’s literary classic Wuthering Heights. The latest sizzling screen adaptation of the gothic novel, first published in 1847, hits Australian cinemas on February 12, featuring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi in the lead roles. For the uninitiated, this is not your usual passionate love story. Rather, it tells of the tumultuous and destructive relationship between Catherine (Cathy) Earnshaw and Heathcliff, set against the backdrop of the Yorkshire moors. It’s one of the most anticipated films of 2026, so let’s see if the hype matches the performances.

THE Noosa Food and Wine Festival from June 12-14 has announced a refreshed program, including new collaborations and pioneering talents. The action-packed, four-day event of mouthwatering delights and wildly diverse flavours is one ambitious celebration of Noosa’s top chefs and culinary leaders from across Australia. Expect menus as extraordinary as their beachside settings, as powerhouse chefs take your tastebuds on a journey you won’t forget. At the time of going to print, some tickets to the American Express Festival Village – the hub of festivities with pop-up restaurants, new lounge spaces, a culinary stage and live entertainment – plus some Signature Events (such as Sunset Sessions: Beachside Dinner on June 13 and The Festival Sundowner on June 14) were still available. Visit noosafoodandwine.com.au

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CATS ARE STILL IN CONTROL

IN ANCIENT times, cats were worshipped as gods. They’ve not forgotten this.

I’ve been sharing what I once believed was my home with my daughter’s two cats.

Ellie has the manners of a Victorian governess: all prim little steps and quiet judgment. Coconut is a confident young lad that strides about the house built in his honour.

I recognise I’m now merely a tenant allowed to stay on compassionate grounds.

Scientists say cats aren’t aloof, they’re connoisseurs of company. They prefer interactions they initiate.

For instance, Ellie has strong views on my daughter’s work/life balance. If a Zoom meeting runs too long, Ellie strolls into frame like a disapproving supervisor and sits squarely on the keyboard.

Both cats have perfected baby-like mews designed to melt our human resolve.

Coconut adds interpretive body language with his backside. Scientists assure us this is a compliment.

I remain unconvinced.

Coconut also responds to the word ‘chicken’ with the speed of a sprinter leaving the blocks. We now have to spell it out because he recognises the word and even the crackle of the warm packet being pulled apart. Takeaway chicken used to be known as a bachelor’s handbag, but now it’s Coconut’s, and I’ve been promoted to waiting staff.

Genetic studies back up what anyone sharing a home with cats already knows: they’re very clever. Cats are natural problem solvers, able to memorise routines with surprising accuracy. They form genuine emotional bonds with the humans in their lives, even if they prefer to express affection in subtle, carefully timed ways.

Ellie and Coconut have studied and trained me with the patience of seasoned behavioural scientists. In return, I receive companionship, much amusement and the privilege of being chosen by furry personalities which could, at any moment, decide to ignore me completely but graciously choose not to … most of the time.

OLDER AUSTRALIANS ‘ONLY RECEIVE PALLIATIVE CARE IN LAST DAYS’

PALLIATIVE Care Australia (PCA) has welcomed new linked data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), providing a national picture of older people’s access to specialist end-of-life care.

The AIHW data, based on 132,000 people aged 65 and over who had predictable deaths (from illness) in 2021-22, indicates older people are typically first receiving specialist palliative care just 12 days before they die.

PCA CEO Camilla Rowland says the findings reveal complex patterns across aged care, hospital and community settings, but a very clear story about timing.

“The median time between a first specialist palliative care service and death was just 12 days,” she says.

“We know from the evidence that outcomes are better when people get early access to palliative care – at least 90 days before death.

“Earlier access to specialist palliative care is associated with reduced hospitalisations, better symptom control and more supported decision making.

“That gap represents lost time for comfort, planning and connection for older people and their families.”

Given Australia will have a major

increase in the 85-plus age group over the next decade, the need for palliative care will only increase.

The data highlights particular concerns for people living in residential aged care, who are less likely to receive specialist palliative care (and more likely to receive it even closer to death) than people using home care or residential respite care.

“Older people in residential aged care often have complex conditions such as frailty and dementia, and they absolutely stand to benefit from palliative care,” Ms Rowland says.

“Yet this data shows they are the least likely to receive specialist palliative care, and when they do, it comes even closer to death. Families want more than a week or two of help at the very end – they want time to understand what is happening, manage symptoms well, and share precious, unhurried moments together.”

Who really invented the lamington is Brisbane’s sweetest mystery to date

CHRIS CURRIE heads to State Library of Queensland’s collections to serve up a deliciously surprising answer to a question that has puzzled historians for decades.

Few treats are as quintessentially Queensland as the lamington.

The first published recipe for ‘Lamington Cakes’ appears in Queensland Country Life on December 17, 1900, predating popular claims on the lamington from Ipswich (a nervous maid at the opening of Ipswich Technical College) and Cloncurry (sponge cake dropped in gravy and coconut!).

While many countries around the world have contemporary and similar recipes, the name most associated with lamington is 2nd Baron Lamington Charles Wallace Alexander Napier

REMEMBERING OLD SCHOOL DAYS IN ENOGGERA DISTRICT

ENOGGERA State School was the first opened in the district and was enlarged in 1916 with buildings designed by Alfred Barton Brady.

Additional buildings constructed between 1916 and 1950 were Heritage Listed in 2019.

Bunya State School (pictured) was opened on January 25, 1875, and was conveniently situated between Enoggera and Samford. The school was closed twice in the 1920s due to insufficient numbers and was permanently closed in 1965. Groveley State School (renamed Mitchelton in 1923) was built in 1916 to a design drawn by the deputy government architect Thomas Pye.

An early inspector thought little of the proposed site, saying that “only a New Chum would select broken gullies and low-lying ti tree land”. Eventually, land was

Cochrane-Baillie, better known as Lord Lamington, who served as the eighth governor of Queensland from 1896 to 1901.

The connections to Queensland’s governor range from the plausible (they were invented for one of his many official engagements) to the ridiculous (they were inspired by the image of the governor’s dandruff on his brown homburg hat).

The most widely-held theory is that lamingtons were invented by accident or by necessity in Lord and Lady Hamilton’s kitchen. But which kitchen and by whose hands?

French-born chef Armand Galland worked for Lord and Lady Lamington as their chef de cuisine and is often credited with the invention of the sweet.

Some historians are certain that he improvised the recipe when unexpected guests arrived at the governor’s official residence in Brisbane, now known as Old Government House.

Another theory involves another kitchen ad-lib – this time from a temporary chef at Harlaxton House,

purchased from Mrs Keylar for £50.

A new school known as Bunyaville (renamed Everton Park in 1954) was opened in June 1934. A member of the school committee, Mick Downey, was assigned the task of finding land for a school to be located on the opposite side of Kedron Brook to the Enoggera school.

Frequent flooding and the loss of the bridge between the two districts had been a problem. Land was available at a site known as Murphy’s paddock but was far too close to the existing school. Eventually, Mick sold his own land for the new school which was renamed Everton Park in 1954.

On the first day, Bunyaville was a few pupils short. So, extra children were borrowed from the Enoggera State School and the nearby convent school. The first headmaster was George Crawford. Grovely State School, situated in Dawson Parade, was opened circa 1952 and for some years, teachers and pupils watched the summer skies for storm clouds. Children living across Kedron Brook would be sent home early to avoid having to attempt the low-level crossing of the waterway.

WORDS: Diana Hacker, Enoggera District Historical Society.

Lord Lamington with family, friends and personal assistants outside Government House, Brisbane, 1899. Image: collections.slq.qld.gov.au/viewer/IE276315

the Lamingtons’ grand Toowoomba residence. There is no conclusive evidence, however, that either of these theories are correct.

But what of Annabella Mary Elizabeth Haughton Hozier, better known as Lady Lamington?

In her diaries, held at State Library of Queensland, Lady Lamington attended cooking classes at Brisbane Technical College, under the tutelage of head teacher Amy Schauer. Schauer would go on to become one of the state’s most influential cooks, with her oft-reprinted The Schauer Australian Cookery Book becoming the culinary bible for generations of Queenslanders (many editions are held at State Library).

Notably, Schauer’s name is the first to appear in print against a recipe for

DECIMAL CURRENCY MILESTONE

SIXTY years ago, on February 14, 1966, the citizens of Australia were faced with a change to their currency.

Pounds and pence were to become dollars and cents.

The more senior citizens were apprehensive and uncertain as to how they were going to cope with the change.

However, with the notes and coins in their hands and using the coins for every transaction, day after day, they soon became confident.

Fast forward, to 2026, and the senior citizens of the day are grappling with credit and debit cards, BPAY, internet banking, changing passwords regularly, the cloud, hackers, identity theft and artificial intelligence. Some are not coping well at all.

So, just for a bit of fun, Enoggera Historical Society has put together this quiz.

Cash Quiz

lamingtons, in The Queenslander on November 26, 1904.

An earlier recipe, from the same paper in 1902, attributes the recipe for lamington cake to “a subscriber”.

While there is no direct evidence, it is possible that Lady Lamington passed the recipe onto culinary icon Amy Schauer. Interestingly enough, Galland later acted as an examiner at the same college.

As to who invented it? Well, you’ll have to listen to State Library’s Cake: the podcast (slq.qld.gov.au/discover/podcasts/ cake) to find out.

We could all learn that lesson. Cake the podcast goes on a delicious journey through Queensland’s connection to sweet treats. Find it on the ABC Listen app or wherever you get your podcasts.

1. Coinage was invented in 625BC by what kingdom?

2. What alloy was used for the first coins?

3. What is tombac?

4. What was added to tombac to make bronze?

5. What is Latin for tin?

6. Where was the Cartwheel Penny minted?

7. What were the Holey Dollar and Dump made from?

8. What was the face value of the Dump?

9. What was the first Australian commemorative coin?

10. How many pre-decimal coins can you name?

Canberra florin. 10. Farthing, halfpenny, penny, threepence, sixpence, shilling, florin, half crown, crown.

(alloy of gold and silver). 3. Brass (alloy of copper and zinc). 4. Tin. 5. Stannum. 6. Birmingham. 7. Spanish silver dollars. 8. 15 pence. 9. 1927

2.

Answers to Cash Quiz: 1.

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Differences between heat and cold therapy

CAITLYN HUTH looks at how these two ‘opposing’ remedies can be used effectively to reduce pain.

When managing pain, one of the most common go-to remedies is reaching for a heat source or ice pack.

But how effective are they really? While these therapies don’t necessarily heal the tissue itself, they can play a helpful role in managing how pain is experienced – particularly in chronic conditions and flare-ups.

Heat and cold therapy don’t ‘fix’ injuries or speed up tissue repair. Instead, they influence the nervous system, temporarily altering how pain signals are processed.

Heat and cold stimulate different sensory receptors in the skin, essentially acting as a natural form of distraction for the brain:

• cold therapy (such as ice packs or cooling gels) can dull overactive nerve endings and reduce the intensity of pain signals during a flare-up, particularly for people with arthritis, tendinopathy or nerve sensitivity. It doesn’t

heal the area, but it may provide short-term relief and reduce that burning or throbbing sensation

• heat therapy can soothe muscle tension, promote relaxation and improve perceived mobility. It’s especially helpful for persistent back pain, neck tightness or general aches in the joints. Applying heat may improve blood flow and help muscles feel looser, making it easier to move and engage in exercise.

Current best practice highlights that heat and cold are comfort strategies, not treatments for tissue repair.

In chronic pain management, where the nervous system becomes hypersensitive, these

BRENDALE VIEW CLUB’S FESTIVITIES

THE Brendale Evening VIEW

Club members are now all geared up and focused on making 2026 a year of women’s networking, community impact and educational support for The Smith Family Learning for Life program.

If you have the intention to make 2026 a year to cultivate new friendships and at the same

therapies may help regulate sensory input, calming the system just enough to support movement or sleep.

There is less support for the use of ice in acute soft-tissue injuries, as it may interfere with the body’s natural inflammatory and healing responses. Rather than trying to ‘freeze out’ pain, the goal should be to support healing with movement, education and loading strategies.

Pain is complex. It’s influenced by your body, brain, environment and even beliefs.

While a heat pack or cold compress won’t fix everything, they can be part of a broader self-care toolkit. So, if a heat pack helps you relax before exercise or a cold wrap helps calm a pain flare-up, it’s okay to use it.

Just remember: the path to recovery involves more than managing symptoms. Movement, mindset and support matter most.

Caitlyn Huth is an exercise physiologist at Full Circle Wellness. Call 5456 1599 or visit fullcirclewellness.com.au

FIT HAPPENS with Tom Law

WHEN we were younger, we spoke about fitness and how tough people were. We marvelled at their endurance and physical and athletic ability.

Well, at least I did, and so did the people I associated with to a large extent.

I worked hard at keeping fit and strong. My mates and I entered trail runs, fun runs, half-marathons and some even completed full marathons and triathlons.

The fitness craze of the 1970s and 1980s became a lifestyle. Media, celebrities and gyms seemed to pop up everywhere, telling us the benefits of being in shape. Fitness became very commercial and remains so today.

But for me at least and perhaps for you, the language has changed. I like to think the frenetic fitness culture of the past also has changed or adapted.

I now prefer to be healthy and well, rather than fit and strong.

Mental health has become more prominent and wellness is

spoken of more and more. No longer do I plan extended endurance tests, hiking for days on end or expect to repeat some of my better physical achievements. I prefer to maintain strength, balance, flexibility and regular cardiovascular activity. I write about myself but believe many as they age follow a similar path –preferring consistent regular exercise combined with good mental health practices and a sense of contentment. Sleep, rest, nutrition and fun are important ingredients in the health, wellbeing self-care bundle.

We are an ageing population and our health and wellness services have adapted along with our vocabulary.

Of course, I would like to be as fit as I was 20 years ago, but I am content being healthy and well.

My new book on exercise for over-60s, called Prime Movers, will be published this month.

Tom Law is the author of health and exercise-related books. Visit facebook.com/tomslawtraining or call 0409 274 502.

OLDER WOMEN’S NETWORK PROBUS MILESTONE

time support and make a change in a child’s life through their education, then put the Brendale Evening VIEW Club February dinner meeting on your calendar as your presence will make a difference.

It will be the 27th anniversary of the Brendale club, so get ready for an evening of fun.

VIEW stands for the Voice,

Interests and Education of Women. It is a national women’s volunteer organisation, exclusively supporting the education of children experiencing disadvantage through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. Brendale VIEW sponsors nine Aussie children with their educational needs through this program.

The members of Brendale VIEW enjoy monthly dinner meetings, hear from interesting guest speakers and have the satisfaction of helping others.

The next dinner meeting is on February 17, with guest speaker Ann Downey, from Akemi Ikebana: The Art of Flower Arranging.

Dinner meetings are held at 6.30pm for a 7pm start on the third Tuesday of the month at Aspley Hornets Football Club, 50 Graham Road, Carseldine. A booking is required.

If you can’t make the next dinner meeting, head along on the 1st Saturday of the month to Coffee and Chat.

Call Suzanne on 0417 022  996.

LOOKING to meet other women, enjoy guest speakers, social activities and stay active in your community?

Contact the Older Women’s Network (Qld) Inc. to find a branch near you.

Call 3358 2301 or email admin@ownqld.org.au

SCRATCH THE SURFACE

‘SCRATCH’ The Surface’ is always a tantalising theme for art exhibitions.

The notion of exposing what lies beneath for a meaning that’s not readily apparent on first viewing has a provocative charm. Artists in the exhibition this year have created a range of amazing works. Look once, twice and more to see what they’re saying.

WHERE: Bribie Island Community Arts Centre’s Matthew Flinders Gallery, 191 Sunderland Drive, Banksia Beach. WHEN: February 17-March 1. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9am to 4pm; Sundays 9am – 1pm. TICKETS: Free entry.

PROBUS is marking a significant milestone in 2026, celebrating 50 years of bringing people together through local clubs built on friendship, connection and shared interests.

Since its first club formed in Australia in 1976, Probus has grown into a vibrant network. The 1300 social clubs span all states and territories, supporting more than 90,000 members. Over five decades, Probus has played a vital role in helping people build meaningful social connections and stay active and engaged at every stage of later life.

“Probus was created to ensure people had a place to connect, form friendships and enjoy life beyond work,” says Silvana Martignago, the CEO of Probus in Australia and New Zealand.

“Fifty years on, that purpose is more important than ever.”

Probus clubs provide a welcoming environment for retirees, semi-retirees and those planning their next chapter, offering regular activities, outings and opportunities to build genuine friendships.

Visit probussouthpacific.org or call 1300 630 488.

Don’t fall into the big telco trap of overpaying on monthly bills

EDIN READ does the calculations and suggests revisiting our mobile phone plans to ensure we’re getting value for money.

I’ve written before about mobile phone plans and how much money many Australians are quietly overpaying every month.

The reason I’m revisiting the topic now is simple: despite all the advertising noise and shiny new plans, very little has changed where it actually matters. Telstra and Optus remain costly, while alternative providers continue to offer strong value using the same underlying networks.

One of the most common concerns I hear from clients is that leaving Telstra or Optus means giving up coverage or reliability. In practice, this is rarely the case.

Providers such as Aldi Mobile, Tangerine, Belong and Boost operate on the Telstra or Optus wholesale networks. That means the signal reaching your phone is often exactly the same, just without the higher price tag attached to it.

If you want to save money, for most seniors a sensible place to start is with a smaller data allowance. About 10-15GB per month suits most people I work with.

Aldi Mobile currently offers a plan at $23 per month with 12GB of data and unlimited calls and texts. Tangerine offers comparable plans at $25 per month.

These plans comfortably cover calls, texts, emails, browsing, photos and the occasional video call, and unused data rolls over to the next month. If you do need more data later, you can simply increase your plan the following month. What you cannot do is get a refund for unused data.

A fair concern with these lower-cost providers is the lack of physical shopfronts. You cannot generally walk into a store if something goes wrong.

That said, many people find the trade-off worthwhile. There is no sales pressure, no surprise add-ons appearing on the bill, and no attempts to up-sell services you did not ask for. Billing is simple and charged monthly, with no lock-in contracts.

The savings are where this really becomes meaningful. Many Telstra and Optus plans start around $55 per month and quickly rise to $65 or more.

When you compare that with a $23 to $30 plan from an alternative provider, the difference can easily be $30 to $40 every month. Over a year, that adds up to about $360 to $480-plus. For many retirees, that is money that could go towards rising living costs, a short trip away or simply peace of mind.

It is also important to know that you keep your mobile number when you change providers. Your number belongs to you, not the telco, thanks to changes made by the Australian government a while back. Switching is far easier than it used to be, and in most cases your phone continues working throughout the change.

On a personal note, our mobile service at Greyology runs on the Aldi Mobile network, including all of our business mobile phones. My own personal mobile does as well. We made that decision years ago after testing it properly and we have never had an issue. Calls are reliable, data works exactly as expected and coverage has been solid in metropolitan areas and when travelling.

If it is good enough for a tech support business that relies on being contactable, it is more than suitable for everyday use.

For those who prefer simplicity, long expiry plans are also worth considering. Paying once per year rather than every month appeals to many seniors, and alternative providers offer annual options at far lower prices than Telstra or Optus equivalents. Aldi Mobile offers a plan of $289 for 300GB of data.

The message here is simply that loyalty is rarely rewarded in the mobile phone industry. Taking the time to review your plan, understanding what you actually use and considering alternatives that cost $23 to $30 instead of $60 or more can result in genuine savings without sacrificing quality.

If switching feels overwhelming or you would like someone to check if your current plan suits, Greyology can help.

Edin Read is founder and chief technician at Greyology Tech Support for Seniors. Visit greyology.com.au

A gold-medal performance is what’s needed on our roads

BRUCE McMAHON knows Brisbane will need to lift its game in traffic management long before the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games come to town.

Queensland’s Southeast corner is growing and growing. With that comes more and more traffic and increased silliness on the roads.

How about in 2026 we try and stay on the pace? Be polite to other road users. Pay attention. Don’t just rely on buzzers and bells to stay in your lane.

How about, to keep the place moving, we consider this from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles: a car going 5mph (8kmh) slower than the surrounding traffic has a greater chance of causing an accident than one going 5mph faster.

“One of the most common reasons motorists drive under the speed limit is because they are driving while distracted. Typically, drivers are distracted by cell phones. They are paying more attention to their phone and trying to slow down to multitask,” reports The New York Times

“Driving too slowly can make other drivers around you constantly brake and speed up. It can be frustrating for other drivers, cause confusion and could lead to an accident.”

Back here, Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner leads a push for mature, new-age approaches to reducing slowmoving traffic and congestion plus, in turn, exhaust emissions. He suggests the right decisions – allowing left runs on red lights, updating clearway times and the use of artificial intelligence – will help keep the city moving.

“We’re focused on practical congesting-busting solutions – from Brisbane Metro and the new bus network to improved clearway, using AI on transport corridors and the return of left turn on red,” Lord Mayor Schrinner says.

Today, Brisbane is a busier, almost 24-7 metropolis. So, extending clearway times

on some major corridors could be on the agenda. Other answers may lay with ‘traffic-reading’ technology.

“When our existing system was implemented, floppy disks were the height of data management and mobile phones couldn’t fit in a pocket,” Lord Mayor Schrinner says.

“We are seeking advanced trafficmanagement solutions that can learn, predict, adapt, plan and control to optimise our existing network and make smarter use of the road corridors we already have.”

Left turn at red traffic lights was trialled between 2013 and 2021 at five to 55 Brisbane intersections at various times. It was estimated drivers made more than 15 million left turns on red, saving between nine and 30 seconds. It saved fuel, too.

The state Labor government shut the trial down, arguing there was a risk to vulnerable road users, particularly pedestrians. Yet, across bustling jurisdictions such as Los Angeles, drivers turn right on red. Mind you, many suburban intersections there – even up to five-ways – are controlled by stop signs alone. And pedestrian crossings are controlled by flashing yellows, rather than having to stop for a kid who’s pushed the button and darted across the road well before the light turns red.

Australian driving regulations are nanny-narrow. Rules keep multiplying and the road toll keeps rising. It’s time to get serious about driving, licences and driving lessons as a mandatory school subject. And it’s time for authorities to better correlate Australian road-incident data so there’s a far deeper, more nuanced understanding of the causes of road fatalities.

All that will help make it easier and safer to get around this corner of Australia.

I want to give a big ‘thank you’ to me

With gratitude, CHARLIE GRIFFITHS takes a moment to reflect on who he is today, how he got there, and the effort he had to put in personally.

Idon’t mind watching a spot of tennis when there’s no cricket on, and I enjoyed watching Mirra Andreeva become a worthy winner of the 2026 Adelaide International.

What grabbed my attention was the motto she wore on her tracksuit jacket after the match that read: “I want to thank myself.”

Her victory speech is available online and should be watched to appreciate the context of her tongue-in-cheek, yet genuine, affirmations.

Humbly, she thanked herself last on a long list of deserving contributors, including umpires, ball kids, volunteers, sponsors, organisers and challenging opponents.

Andreeva thanked herself for being brave, tenacious and hardworking, as well as doing what her coaches and fitness managers asked of her. I like the girl!

I would like to thank myself for being brave in the face of scary things that love to ambush me physically, spiritually, financially – any opportunity that bullies think they can take advantage of to inflict some pain.

Of course, I have an amazing support

crew to convince me that it will all be worthwhile, but I’m the one who has to face the enemy and I’m pretty proud of the counterpunching I’m capable of when under attack.

I’d like to thank myself for always believing in me. When facing a new challenge, it’s nice to know my supporters trust me but none know me better than myself.

I can’t ignore fear and doubt, but I must embrace these and surge forward, regardless. It’s my tenacity that will achieve my milestones and I’m the one battling my demons the whole time.

I think of the old cartoons with the prospective hero forced to listen to the opposing motivators on each shoulder. Thanks, me, for having the wisdom to heed the right voice.

Thank you, me, for having the smarts to know that I don’t know it all. Coaches, medical professionals and even bosses got there because they know their stuff.

I’ve learned that respect is hard earned, a thrill to receive and an honour to bestow.

Following good advice is not always a leap of faith, it’s knowing that I need help and I trust my advisors to look out for my

best interests. I must thank myself for always keeping my decision-making processes in sharp focus. Vision can become blurred by external and internal expectations, perceptions and pressure and it’s my job to ensure that my choices are made for what I believe are the ‘right reasons’.

Thanks, me, for being honourable enough to pursue truth over gratuitous privilege or profit. I thank myself for insisting that there are no excuses: my actions determine how well I sleep at night.

I want to express gratitude to myself

for allowing me to be happy. No meaningful achievement comes without sacrifice and I am glad that I don’t dwell on the blood, sweat and tears to the degree that they cause resentment.

I’m thankful to myself for celebrating small victories and sharing the joy with those who have helped me on the journey. Thank you, me, for being me. Charlie Griffiths is a certified life coach and Neuro Linguistic Programming practitioner. Contact Charlie at his website: charliegriffithscoaching.com

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Alzheimer’s is like having ‘a leaky roof’

KAILAS ROBERTS outlines a trial that aimed to give participants the best chance of minimising the impact of processes that lead to the condition.

You have to be careful about hyperbole. This is why I was somewhat sceptical when I first came across a book called The End of Alzheimer’s, by Dr Dale Bredesen.

Despite his credentials (he is an esteemed neurologist in the US, actively involved in Alzheimer’s research for decades), the claim of finding a cure for this condition when so many others have failed seemed a little far fetched.

The title of the best-selling book at least grabbed people’s attention.

Among experts in the field, its reception has been more lukewarm, however. The main criticism of the claims was that they were based on interventions that had not been subjected to the usual research rigor and might be inaccurate or misleading.

To be fair to Dr Bredesen, his approach is by its nature difficult to study, as it is based on the hypothesis that Alzheimer’s develops for a number of different but potentially connected reasons. As he puts it, Alzheimer’s is like having a leaky roof. There are multiple holes and there is no

point just plugging one if the water continues to leak through the others.

So, you must do multiple things to address the separate issues. If you then have a positive result, which of these things is responsible? It can be tricky.

I do think there is validity in this idea, however. Certainly, we know that there are a number of different processes associated with Alzheimer’s disease, including inflammation, disturbed metabolism (such as insulin resistance, high blood sugar and high cholesterol), problems with blood flow, and a decline in nutrient supply and hormones with age. To give yourself the best chance of avoiding the condition, you need to minimise the impact of these processes, and this is what the so-called Bredesen Protocol aims to do.

The protocol involves an assessment of your specific issues (through blood tests, predominantly) and the institution of regular exercise, a mildly ketogenic diet (with a 12-hour daily fast and no eating for three hours before bed), optimising sleep and stress, and the use of targeted supplements to improve inflammation or metabolic health, eradicate infection or address nutritional problems.

This year will see the formal release of results of the Evanthea study, which is a randomised controlled trial based on the Bredesen Protocol, but some information is already available – and it is encouraging.

The trial involved 73 adults in mid- and

later-life who already had memory problems. Over a period of nine months, some of the participants received standard medical care, and the others were put through an intensive, personalised program that involved blood-sugar control, sleep quality, inflammation, exercise, nutrition, hormone balance, infections and toxin exposure.

Those who had undergone active treatment showed clear improvements in several areas of cognition (such as memory and processing speed) – not just less decline than the standard medical care group, but actual improvements. This is very unusual for Alzheimer’s trials.

Physical health also generally improved, though the brain did not show any significant structural changes.

The authors claim that the effect size of the intervention – how much the participants improved – was manifold that of the new disease-modifying drugs that became available in 2025.

There are a number of caveats with the trial results. But in an era where mainstream medical approaches to Alzheimer’s yield underwhelming results, this is an optimistic development and I am watching this space closely.

Kailas Roberts is a psychogeriatrician and author ofMind Your Brain: The Essential Australian Guide to Dementia, available at bookstores and online. Visit yourbraininmind.com or uqp.com.au

In-home care feature

A LITTLE CARE AND ATTENTION GOES A LONG WAY

By SHIRLEY SINCLAIR

IT’S the little things that often make the biggest difference.

Most of us want to stay in our own home as long as possible as we age.

But without the right support, in addition to small adjustments to the home and ongoing maintenance, the ability to remain among familiar surroundings could become much harder.

My Aged Care should be your first port of call in your research.

The website (myagedcare.gov.au/ aged-care-programs/support-at-homeprogram) says the Support at Home program was introduced by the Australian government in November last year, replacing the Home Care Packages and the Short-term Restorative Care Programs.

The Support at Home program is designed to look after your health and wellbeing in the comfort of your own home – a home that also can be made clean, safe and manageable.

Home Care & Allied Health

It’s an option if you need a coordinated approach to the delivery of your help at home.

It aims to improve an individual’s access to services, products, equipment and home modifications to help them remain living independently for longer.

If eligible for government-subsidised costs, you and your service provider can discuss creating a personalised Support at Home plan tailor made to your lifestyle and needs.

Maybe you just want someone to ‘lighten the load’ with cleaning, gardening, putting washing on the line or walking the dog.

Perhaps your meal preparation needs some help or you’d like assistance with the weekly grocery shopping.

Thankfully, you have the freedom to choose your own service provider that is a ‘good fit’ for you, ticking all the boxes for your care.

“Under Support at Home, you have access to a defined list of services to support you to live at home for longer,” the My Aged Care website says.

“This can include support for: • clinical supports, such as nursing care, occupational therapy and podiatry • independence, such as help with showering, taking medications, transport and respite care

“It also includes services that support culturally safe care, such as help to join in cultural activities and access to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health practitioners and health workers.

“If you’re approved for Support at Home, you will receive a letter letting you know what services and funding you’re approved for.

“This includes any approvals for ongoing or short-term care, depending on your assessed needs.”

You can take the necessary steps to choose a service provider once your funding comes through.

Go online to see what’s available in your area. Services are provided by a variety of organisations across Australia.

There’s even organisations available to help you sort through the service providers in your area and find the best one for you, without the process becoming too overwhelming. Or ask a loved one, friend or neighbour to help in the search.

“Your chosen provider will discuss with you the mix of services to meet your assessed needs and budget,” My Aged Care says.

“You can request to change this mix at any time. You can also ask for a reassessment if your needs change at a later point.”

You might be surprised at how much

By RHYLEA THOMPSON

‘DANCE like nobody’s watching’ is a phrase many reserve for the privacy of their own home.

But new research suggests dancing could offer health benefits for older Australians.

Seasons Living has partnered with the University of Sydney and Gold Moves Australia to deliver a pilot study examining whether dance can help prevent falls in seniors.

The 10-week program involved 34 retirees, aged 65 and over, who participated in weekly dance classes at Seasons Mango Hill.

Seasons resident Frances Gallagher joined the study, hoping to improve her mobility after a knee injury left her reliant on a walking aid.

“It’s been life changing and I’m not exaggerating,” she says.

“When I started, I couldn’t do all the exercises and needed to sit down because of the pain. Now I can complete the entire session without a break.

“I’ve gone from taking eight Panadols a day to none or just two at most.”

For the first time in 12 months, Ms Gallagher can walk unaided and shower without a chair. She feels more

confident going to the store and walking her dog.

University of Sydney lecturer Dr Heidi Gilchrist says about one-third of people over 65 experience a fall each year, often resulting in long-term loss of confidence and independence.

“We know dancing supports balance, strength, brain function and social connection, but this study is an important step toward understanding whether it can directly reduce falls,” she says.

The research was funded by a Physiotherapy Research Foundation Seeding Grant.

Visit seasonsliving.com.au

HOW TO STAY IN CONTROL WHILE LIVING AT HOME, CHANGING YOUR AGED CARE PROVIDER AS NEEDED

MANY people receiving governmentfunded aged care support don’t realise they have the right to change providers.

If your current provider no longer meets your needs, or you feel your voice is not being heard, you can choose to move to a provider that suits you better.

Your funding is linked to your assessed needs, not the provider, reinforcing your right to choice and control.

All About Living CEO Leonie Fowke says many people stay with the wrong provider longer than they need to.

“A common mistake is choosing a

provider based on availability alone, or assuming it is too hard to change,” she says.

“People are often surprised to learn how much choice they have, and how important it is to find a provider that listens to what matters to them.”

People often consider changing providers when services feel rushed, communication is unclear, staff change frequently, or their needs have changed but support has not kept pace.

These concerns are common and are valid reasons to explore other options.

A good aged care provider should work with you. You should expect clear communication, respect for your independence, flexibility as your needs change, and involvement in decisions about your care.

You should also feel comfortable asking questions and raising concerns.

Changing providers is usually straightforward. Your new provider can help coordinate the transition to ensure services continue with minimal disruption.

Visit allaboutliving.com.au

questions, have a support person present and take time to consider your options.

MANY older Australians and their families tell us the same thing: “We know help is out there, we just don’t know where to start.”

When it comes to accessing funded aged care services, the system can feel confusing, overwhelming and, at times, intimidating. One of the most important steps is the aged care assessment.

This assessment is what helps determine what types of governmentfunded supports you may be eligible for, whether that’s help at home, respite or more ongoing care. Yet many people delay asking for an assessment because they worry it means losing independence, being judged or being pushed into services they don’t want. The reality is very different.

An assessment is not about taking control away. It’s about understanding what support could make daily life safer and easier, now or in the future.

You are always allowed to ask

Understanding the different funding types and pathways can also make a big difference. Knowing what you may be eligible for helps you plan ahead rather than scrambling when things become urgent.

Burnie Brae staff are always encouraging older people to put their life jacket on before they hit the water – in other words, engage with My Aged Care before it’s too late.

To help break this down, Burnie Brae is hosting a free education session on Wednesday, February 25, in Chermside to explain the assessment process, funding options and common myths in clear, everyday language.

To book a spot, visit burniebrae.org.au/ agedcareinfo or call 3624 2121.

WORDS: Aynsley Johnson, head of care and member services, Burnie Brae.

ENSURE THAT LIVING OPTIONS FOR RETIREMENT (AND BEYOND) REFLECT WHO YOU REALLY ARE

By LESA MACPHERSON

THE Christmas decorations are packed up and the new year has been celebrated.

We really hope 2026 is a good one for you and your loved ones.

Many of us have gathered together during the holiday period and enjoyed the company of our beloved family members.

However, sometimes, there can be worrying changes we can’t unsee easily.

These can be changes that spark conversations about lifestyle.

It is important to get any changes to our elder’s lifestyle just right.

‘Bespoke’ is a word that is used a lot these days, but it has real meaning when applied to choices for lifestyles in our later years and as our elders age.

In the discussions with older family members, or perhaps even reflecting oneself, when considering a change, it would help the decision making to ask:

• are you a people person who loves the company of others and would thrive in a bright and engaging community with lots to offer?

• do you want to continue to travel and have your home easily secured and maintained while you’re away?

• do you have beloved grandchildren?

What facilities are available to share with them in the retirement living option you choose?

• are you a person who has wonderful memories of beach holidays – loved surfing and beach walks? Would you consider a move to a beachside area an exciting option?

• if you love nature, how will you reflect that within the community in which you live?

On a practical level, remember to think ahead about the availability of higher-level aged care facilities nearby.

These are the qualities of aged care we want to look forward to in our old age:

• a desire to know who we are

• quality, individualised care

• respect and kindness

• time to listen to our stories and precious memories

• having the time to do things we love.

We all have a story and memories. We are all individuals. We need to remember who we are and let our dreams for our future years be informed by our essence.

Brisbane Elder Law specialises in all aspects of elder law, including wills, estates, aged care and over-50s resort and retirement village contracts. Call 1800 961 622 or visit brisbaneelderlaw.com.au

ARE YOU MISSING OUT ON ENERGY SAVINGS?

LATEST data from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) reveals that almost 2.5 million Australian households are paying more than they need to for their electricity because they are at or above default offers.

The new Electricity Market Inquiry shows that someone who has stuck with the same energy plan for three years or more pays $221 more a year on average than a customer with a new plan.

But while many Australians are missing out on better deals, Compare the Market economic director David Koch says the message is starting to sink in.

“Last year, I challenged Australians to compare energy plans to see if we could move the dial on these statistics,” Mr Koch says.

the safety net

• more than half the customers analysed were on plans over a year old

“Just over a quarter (26.7 per cent) of customers are now on their retailer’s best offer – that’s up from 19.3 per cent last year, which is a pretty good effort.

“But there’s still a long way to go with nearly 2.5 million customers still paying prices at or above the safety net. If you are one of the thousands of Aussie bill-payers who haven’t compared plans, it’s time to join the rest of us and start saving.”

Other report highlights include: • about 36.5 per cent pay prices on or above the safety net

• customers on older plans paid an average 4.7 per cent more for flat rates and 4.2 per cent more for time-of-use tariffs.

The Default Market Offer caps the prices that energy retailers can charge for standing offer electricity plans in New South Wales, Southeast Queensland, South Australia and the ACT. These benchmarks exist to protect consumers but often there are much better offers available.

Mr Koch says the most frustrating thing is that often the savings are right in front of people’s noses.

WHY 1800 PEOPLE CHOSE TO DANCE IN A CEMETERY TO CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS

AN ESTIMATED 1800 people gathered at Centenary Memorial Gardens (CMG) for an event that sounds like a contradiction: a Christmas party within a sacred resting place.

But for the families who attended, it was a profoundly beautiful and necessary ritual that transforms grief into shared celebration.

The event, in its 10th year, began as a small gathering of 50 people nine years ago.

Its explosive growth to nearly 2000 attendees is a testament to its powerful purpose and what CMG offers: a safe and tranquil space that helps memories live on.

“Dancing in a cemetery? Who would have thought that could be such a beautiful thing?” a CMG representative says.

“We saw families from all over Brisbane

come together in our gardens to celebrate life, memories and love. Every joyous moment was a tribute to the lives we cherish.”

The event is intentionally designed to hold space for quiet remembrance and vibrant festivity. The success lies in the powerful sense of community.

“Christmas is a hard time of year now mum is gone,” attendee Jule Eyy says.

“I was grateful to be amongst a crowd who ‘got it’ when it comes to loss. It makes all the difference.”

While some attendees enjoyed the fireworks and dancing near the main stage, many chose to sit quietly further back in the tranquil gardens, simply enjoying the music in the company of their loved ones.

For many families, the annual

EXPLAINING THE ROLE OF PROPERTY DEBT FUNDS

GLOBAL financial markets continue to experience turbulence, driven by shifting economic policies and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty.

The uneven application of tariffs, slowing global trade and evolving inflation dynamics have contributed to persistent volatility across major indices. In this environment, investor confidence remains fragile. The challenge for policymakers is clear: balance inflation control with the need to support growth.

As central banks tread this delicate line, the appeal of traditional income-generating investments has diminished.

With interest rates fluctuating and equity markets unsettled, many investors are re-evaluating their approach in favour of more stable, asset-backed strategies.

Property debt funds are increasingly being viewed as a compelling option. These funds pool capital and lend to property developers, with loans secured by a registered mortgage over real estate assets.

This structure offers a built-in layer of protection: should a borrower default, the underlying property provides recourse.

In Australia, real estate remains a relatively robust sector and property

debt funds benefit from this stability.

Unlisted property debt funds are also shielded from the day-to-day volatility of public markets. Importantly, property debt funds provide consistent income through fixed interest payments made by borrowers – an attractive feature in a low-yield environment.

With banks continuing to scale back their lending to small-to-mid-sized developers due to regulatory constraints, private lenders are stepping in to fill the gap. This dynamic has opened the door for property debt funds to secure favourable lending terms, translating into higher potential returns for investors.

And as borrowing conditions improve with lower rates, the risk of default may also decline. For investors seeking a more measured approach in uncertain times, property debt funds offer a combination of income, security and resilience.

WORDS: Joe Christie, executive director, Capital Property Funds. Visit capitalpropertyfunds.com.au

This article is for general information only and is not financial advice. Readers should seek independent investment advice.

celebration is now a key part of their Christmas tradition, ensuring their loved ones remain central to the holiday spirit.

The success of the CMG Christmas Celebration underscores the memorial garden’s unique approach to remembrance.

Unlike conventional cemeteries, CMG is designed as a peaceful, 16-hectare sanctuary, offering more than 30 unique garden sections that provide vast and personal memorial options —from shady trees to secure, side-by-side plots.

Book a private tour on 3271 1222 or visit cmgcc.com.au

From edgy to elegant, Larissa brings your style to life with a twist of personality:

> Gothic, Rockabilly & Alternative vibes

> Men’s fashion with flair

> Contemporary styling for modern trendsetters

> Colour analysis to find your ‘wow’ shades

> Gift cards –perfect for stylish surprises!

Stronger social connections linked to better mental health

Research from the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA) at UNSW Sydney has found that social interactions in later life are largely shaped by life experiences –not genetics.

It also reveals that staying connected with friends, neighbours and the community may help protect older adults against depression.

Using data from CHeBA’s Older Australian Twins Study, one of Australia’s most comprehensive ageing research projects, researchers analysed more than 560 twins aged 65 and over across six years to understand how social connections relate to mental and cognitive health.

The study, published in the British Journal of Psychiatry , found that social connections – including friendships, family interactions and involvement in community or religious groups – were only weakly influenced by genetic factors.

That means they are mostly shaped by each person’s individual experiences and environment.

The researchers say that this is

encouraging news. “Because social connections are not strongly determined by genes, they are highly modifiable,” lead researcher and social health expert Dr Suraj Samtani says.

“This means programs and policies designed to boost social engagement can genuinely make a difference for older people.”

With Australia’s population ageing, understanding what supports healthy brain ageing is a national priority.

MAKE BREAST HEALTH PART OF YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

MANY of us are thinking about how to be healthier in the year ahead.

New Year’s resolutions often include eating better, exercising more, or drinking less alcohol. For women, there is another important resolution to add: being breast aware and booking a breast screen.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women. In Queensland, about one-in-seven women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime.

Importantly, the study found that older adults who interacted more frequently with friends, neighbours and community members experienced fewer symptoms of depression – at the start of the study and six years later.

Even modest increases in social interaction had measurable benefits.

“These findings reinforce what many older people already know instinctively: that staying socially active helps support emotional wellbeing,” Dr Samtani says.

Co-author and Honorary Associate Lecturer at CHeBA, Dr Anne-Nicole Casey, says the twin design of the study offered unique insights into what shapes social lives in later years.

Depression, anxiety and dementia are among the leading causes of disability worldwide, and social isolation is on the rise – particularly among middle-aged and older adults.

This new research strengthens the case for community programs, culturally informed social support, and clinical screening for isolation among older Australians.

Given that social engagement in older age is largely shaped by environment – not genetics, there is substantial opportunity to improve mental health through community design, social programs and health services that actively promote connection.

The main risk factors are being female and getting older. More than 75 per cent of breast cancers happen in women over 50.

While these numbers may sound worrying, the good news is that finding breast cancer early can save lives.

Being breast aware means knowing what is normal for your breasts — their size, shape, and feel — and noticing any changes. If you find a lump, thickening, skin dimpling or changes in your nipple, see your GP straight away.

Breast screening is recommended every two years and is most effective for women aged 50 to 74. BreastScreen Queensland offers free screening for women in their 40s, and 75 and older. Call BreastScreen on 13 20 50 or visit breastscreen.qld.gov.au

NO AIR-CONDITIONING or power during a hot summer day? What’s your plan?

Every summer seems hotter than the last. For Australians aged 65 years and over, rising temperatures aren’t just uncomfortable, they can disrupt daily routines, reduce independence and affect health in ways people may not always realise.

For older adults, the summer heat can also be deadly. The increased risk that older adults face due to chronic illnesses, the taking of multiple medications and age-related changes that reduce the ability to regulate the body’s temperature often goes unnoticed until it’s too late.

Heatwaves kill more Australians than any other natural disaster, yet these deaths are largely preventable. So why do they keep happening?

Often, when heat warnings are issued, the advice seems simple: seek out public air-conditioned places to stay cool and reduce your risk of heat-related illness.

But for many older adults, the advice is not so straightforward. Navigating busy public places or unfamiliar environments can feel uninviting and impractical.

When creating cool places for older adults, what’s often missing isn’t ideas, but listening. Too many cooling solutions

are designed for older adults rather than with them. Griffith University researchers aim to understand what influences older adults’ use of public air-conditioned places during hot weather. By sharing your perspectives, you’re helping shape how Queensland responds to rising heat.

Researcher and Registered Nurse Sarah Rogers is completing research on older adults and their use of public air-conditioned places to stay cool during extreme heat and heatwaves.

Until the end of February, an online survey is available for Southeast Queensland residents aged 65 and older to complete. The data gathered from this survey will be used to understand the use of public air-conditioned places as a strategy to stay cool by older adults.

The research aims to improve heat resilience and adaptation for older adults in the face of rising temperatures due to climate change.

Email sarah.rogers2@griffithuni. edu.au to take part.

IF YOU’VE been feeling forgetful, foggy or simply struggling to stay focused, poor sleep may be playing a bigger role than you think.

Sleep is where the magic happens that allows for building, strengthening and protecting your memory.

Memory works in three key parts: learning, storing and recalling – and sleep supports each one.

Deep non-rapid eye movement (REM) sleep acts like the brain’s filing system.

During this stage, new information from the day is organised and stabilised so it can be remembered later. It also clears out unimportant details so your brain can focus on what matters.

REM sleep plays a different but equally vital role.

In this dream-heavy stage, the brain connects ideas, processes emotions and creatively reorganises information.

This is why ‘sleeping on it’ often brings clarity the next morning. REM sleep helps you better understand, integrate and apply what you’ve learned.

When sleep quality is disturbed, we lose the ability to store new information or recall it.

The first night of sleep after any learning is vital for locking in those memories properly.

Common disrupters of sleep quality, that can lead to brain fog and the inability to learn and remember important information, are alcohol, caffeine and untreated sleep apnea.

The good news is that improving sleep quality can have a powerful impact on memory, focus and overall wellbeing. If you snore or think you may have sleep apnea, CPAP Direct is ready to help. Drop into your nearest store to talk to CPAP Direct experts about what you can do to sleep better and wake up refreshed. Visit cpap.com.au

Over-50s resort set to break ground on $18m Country Club

A NEW era in over-50s living is about to take shape in Elimbah, with GemLife set to break ground on a state-of-the-art, $18 million Country Club – the centrepiece of its premium lifestyle resort.

Late last month, locals received a special preview of the facilities to come, with GemLife chief operating officer Andrew Coulter unveiling the master plan and walking guests through the club’s design and standout features.

The two-storey Country Club has been thoughtfully designed to elevate everyday living, GemLife Elimbah sales manager Glenys Lowry says.

“From relaxed morning swims in the magnesium-infused lap pool to friendly games in the fully equipped gym or championship-grade bowls green, it’s all about enjoying an active, social lifestyle,” she says.

“Upstairs, there will be a plush

cinema, inviting library and golf simulator that offers even more ways to connect, unwind and have fun.”

The Country Club draws inspiration from the laid-back lifestyle of Southeast Queensland, blending comfort and style to create a vibrant, uplifting space where residents can thrive.

Glenys says the Country Club will be a true lifestyle destination.

“It’s more than just a building – it’s where connection happens,” she says.

“It’s a space that brings people together, supports wellbeing and offers so many ways to enjoy life.”

Set on 26ha, including 8ha of green space, GemLife Elimbah is a lifestyle resort created especially for active over-50s.

It is located in the heart of the Moreton Bay region, within walking distance of local shops and services.

Visit gemlife.com.au/gelcc

AUSTRALIANS seeking to turn New Year’s resolutions into tangible change need to choose the right strategies, plan for bad days and attach new habits to existing ones in order to achieve concrete outcomes. That’s according to non-profit educational organisation Toastmasters.

With research showing that most New Year’s resolutions fail to endure past the end of January, Toastmasters has tips to help ensure resolutions prove achievable.

1. Choose the right resolutions. It is easy to dream big, but focusing on what is holding you back, rather than just imagining what you want, can provide just as much value. Instead of asking, “What do I want?”, try asking, “What am I always putting off that would really make my life better?”

2. Less is more. It is easy to come up with a long list of resolutions, but that might not be the best approach. Instead, try setting some SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-bound) goals. That way, you will avoid feeling swamped.

3. Get your goals organised. Goals are just goals unless you have systems in place. Jot them down, stick them on the wall and concentrate on making systems that will help you get there. Shifting your mindset from “lose 10 kilos” to “train three times a week, no exceptions” takes away the room for compromise and lets you focus on what you need to do today.

4. Plan for bad days, not great days. Chasing goals is fine when you are motivated. The challenge comes when motivation fades, work gets busy, you are tired and you do not feel like it. This is why the systems you set in place must be

doable on all days, not just the good ones. Lower the minimum standard. On brutal days, sometimes just five minutes for a few push-ups may be enough.

5. Don’t trick your brain. It is a good idea to share your goals with friends and family to keep yourself on track, but remember that we can easily convince ourselves that we are satisfied just by talking about it, rather than doing it.

6. Attach new habits to existing ones. It can be tricky to overhaul your daily routine and include new habits. A more achievable approach is to attach these new habits to your current routines. For example, you could say, “I’ll read after brushing my teeth” instead of “I’ll read once a day”. Or, “I’ll go to the gym after work” instead of “I’ll go to the gym three times a week”. By connecting the new habits to what you already do, they can support each other, rather than competing for your attention.

“If I had one word of motivation or advice, it would be to keep your goals attainable while still challenging, like scheduling in runs after work for fitness, or improving your public speaking skills through Toastmasters,” says Shubi Chatterjee, Toastmasters District 69 club growth director.

Toastmasters teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. In Queensland alone, there are hundreds of clubs operating across the state under District 69, offering individuals the opportunity to develop crucial communication skills in a supportive environment.

To find a local Toastmasters club, visit toastmasters.org/find

A century of memories in Rosa’s inspiring life journey

The week that Rosa Tominich was born, the world’s first Surrealist art exhibition opened in Paris, Lon Chaney stunned movie audiences with The Phantom of the Opera, and archaeologists began unwrapping the mummy of Tutankhamun.

Rosa celebrated her 100th birthday on November 13 – the latest milestone in a well-lived life that has taken her from Europe to Queensland.

The Carinity Wishart Gardens aged care resident was born Rosa Giambri in Frosinone, Italy, in 1925.

Rosa’s father worked in the courts while her mother was a dressmaker who managed the household and cared for their children. Rosa was the only girl among the four Giambri siblings.

Rosa came of age during the hardship of World War II. Her memories of that time include long walks to get bread for her family, sneaking fruit from neighbourhood trees, swimming with her brothers, and helping her mother mend clothes.

In 1947, at the age of 21, Rosa married Stelio Tominich in Trieste. The couple later embarked on a new chapter, moving to Australia by ship in 1954. After spending two years in the Bonegilla immigration camp in regional Victoria, Rosa and Stelio

settled in Sydney, where they raised two sons and built a life through hard work and dedication. Rosa became an Australian citizen in 1960.

Rosa’s working life was as diverse and industrious as her story – from making underwear at the Bond’s factory and assembling nose pieces at a glasses manufacturer, to bartending at the Apia Club in Leichhardt.

HUMOUR and playfulness are strengthening relationships between aged care workers and residents through a program being delivered at Lutheran Services’ Queensland sites.

She also spent time at a tobacco farm in Tenterfield, where she not only twisted tobacco leaves but also prepared the workers’ meals and did their laundry.

In 1980, Rosa and Stelio moved to the Gold Coast, where she lived until Stelio’s passing. Rosa relocated to Bargara to be closer to family, then moved to Carinity Wishart Gardens last year.

Despite the heartache of losing her husband in 2009 and her youngest son eight years later, Rosa remains, in the words of her family, a “pillar of strength”.

Her granddaughter Kristy Tominich says Rosa’s life is “one of constant motion, always driven by a sense of duty and deep care for others”.

Rosa enjoys spending time at the beach

and shopping and is known for her deep love of animals, especially cats. Animal videos still light up Rosa’s face with joy and laughter.

“One of her most memorable stories involves sneaking home a kitten under her shirt at the age of 80, much to her husband’s dismay! That beloved cat, Poochie, was her companion for more than 16 years,” Kristy says.

With six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, Rosa is the proud matriarch of a growing family. Her favourite saying is: “Every day is a bonus; just keep on going”.

“She’s not only the eldest and only surviving sibling from her family, she continues to be a source of love, wisdom, and generosity,” Kristy says.

Developed by Clown Doctors Australia, the Laughter Boss training program inspires connection, fun and wellbeing for residents and staff. Lutheran Services creative engagement lead Natalija Pearn says the program celebrates the human side of care.

“Our staff are incredibly dedicated, but not always sure they have permission to connect with residents in such a playful way,” she says. “The techniques taught by Clown Doctors gives them that permission.

“It reminds us that connection doesn’t always need to be serious: there’s joy in being present, listening and laughing together. Supporting a workforce that truly connects with every resident is central to how Lutheran Services delivers its model of care.”

Clown Doctors Australia, a longstanding not-for-profit best known for delivering therapeutic humour behind red noses to children in hospitals, now extends its social care expertise to aged care staff. Personal carers are coached in creative techniques that bring warmth and joy to everyday care.

● Fixed rate with no hidden fees ● Fully licenced Property Manager

● Regular routine inspections with photo reports

● Flexible owner payments, and same day statements

● Strict property application processes with thorough tenant checks

● Limited number of managed properties to ensure top quality service

FOR THE DIARY:

February

HERE’S some dates to keep in mind this month:

• February 2 World Wetlands Day

• February 4 World Cancer Day

• February 9 World Pizza Day; International Day of the Dentist

• February 11 World Day of the Sick; International Day of Women and Girls in Science

• February 14 Valentine’s Day

• February 17 Chinese New Year; Shrove Tuesday

• February 18 Ash Wednesday

• February 19 Tug of War Day

• February 20 National Love Your Pet Day; World Day of Justice

• February 22 World Thinking Day; Be Humble Day

• February 26 Carpe Diem Day

• February 27 International Polar Bear Day; International Stand Up to Bullying Day

• February 28 Rare Disease Day.

CLASSIC HITS TAKE CENTRE STAGE IN TWO CONCERT EVENTS

REDLAND Performing Arts Centre (RPAC) is starting the new year on a high note, offering an evening out and a daytime concert experience for lovers of classic hits and unforgettable songbooks.

On Friday, February 13, at 7.30pm, two of Australia’s most celebrated performers, Darren Coggan and Damien Leith, take to the stage for Two Of Us – The Songs Of Lennon & McCartney.This intimate acoustic concert pays heartfelt tribute to the extraordinary partnership that shaped modern music.

Audiences will be transported through a lifetime of favourites, from Beatles masterpieces to the richness of Lennon and McCartney’s solo careers. With hits such as Hey Jude, Yesterday, Imagine, All You Need Is Love, Eleanor Rigby and Let It Be, accompanied by The Strawberry Fields Stringed Quartet, this two-hour performance promises an evening of pure nostalgia and timeless artistry. For those who enjoy their live music

earlier in the day, don’t miss The Great British Songbook, Volume II on Wednesday, February 18, at 11am

After multiple sell-out performances, Craig Martin returns by popular demand with a new celebration of British pop history.

Backed by his six-piece band, Martin delivers more crowd-pleasing classics from beloved British bands and artists including The Rolling Stones, Dire Straits, The Beatles, The Searchers, Gerry and the Pacemakers, Rod Stewart, Tom Jones, Elton John, Helen Shapiro, Cliff Richard and many more. Expect more than 20 hits

— Twist & Shout, Crocodile Rock, Maggie May, Walk of Life, I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) and Angels — in a lively, sing-along concert that opens the 2026 Musical Melodies Concert Series.

WHERE: Redland Performing Arts Centre, 2-16 Middle Street, Cleveland.

TICKETS: Visit rpac.com.au or call the Box Office on 3829 8131.

BREAKFAST BRUSCHETTA

Makes 2

HERE’S a delicious way to start the day right on February 14. What better way to show your love this Valentine’s Day than with breakfast in bed. This popular, romantic gesture has its foundations among the wealthy Victorian women of the 19th century, symbolising pampering and relaxation.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices brioche or ciabatta

• 3 tbsp cream cheese

• 10 strawberries, washed, hulled and sliced

• 1 tbsp pure honey.

Method:

1. Toast your bread of choice.

2. Slather across a thick lining of cream cheese.

3. Pile high with sliced strawberries.

4. Drizzle with honey.

Optional: We realise this means an extra ingredient, but we highly recommend that if you have a bunch of fresh basil, pick the smaller young leaves and scatter across the toast. They add a fresh pop of colour and complementary flavour.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY Q&A FILM EVENT

GARAGE Entertainment has announced the launch of a new film about an extraordinary six-year journey on the longest trail in the world.

500 Days in the Wild is an independent documentary film which follows filmmaker Dianne Whelan’s journey on all 24,000km of the land and water trails of the Trans Canada Trail, weaving together a total experience of adventure, personal reflections, stunning wildlife and landscapes. 500 Days dives deeply into the physical and emotional travails of tackling an almost impossible task – one which no one else has accomplished to date.

Whelan, who started out at the age of 50, began the journey with ideas about solitude, self-sufficiency and connection.

That changed radically over the course of the six years, as the realisation sank in that she needed to be with nature as opposed to struggling to conquer it, and that she needed the help of friends –

people to share parts of the trail that couldn’t be done alone.

Learning different ways of seeing from Indigenous Elders along the way was instrumental in the changes in her understanding of being on the land and connecting with people as well as the evolution of her own self-knowledge.

Join Dianne Whelan for a special International Women’s Day Q&A event, screening at 4pm on Sunday, March 8, at New Farm Cinemas. Book at garage. com.au/500-days-in-the-wild/

CAPTURING EVERYDAY MOMENTS THAT SHAPE CULTURAL LIFE

IF ONE picture tells a thousand words, imagine what incredible stories are created from an entire exhibition that reveals the everyday exchanges, rituals and celebrations of our diverse and vibrant community.

As part of Picture Culture: Here & Now photographic exhibition, Sunshine Coast locals with diverse backgrounds, traditions and customs have been sharing photographs depicting their cultural life. Selected works will be exhibited at the Old Ambulance Station Gallery, Nambour, from May 1-30 as part of Horizon Festival 2026.

Sunshine Coast Council strong community portfolio Councillor David Law says it is a rare privilege to be granted access into people’s lives.

“Whether we realise it or not, the way we greet family and friends, the food we prepare and how we celebrate love and life are all uniquely shaped by our culture,” Cr Law says.

“To see those moments pieced together is a wonderful way to honour, celebrate and better understand, the many cultures that make up our community. I encourage everyone to share their moments. Whether you use a phone or a camera, have no experience or are a professional, your stories are important and we want to see them all.”

Horizon Festival is on May 1-10 across the region and selected works will be exhibited at the Picture Culture: Here & Now photographic exhibition during the festival.

Adaytripbyroad orrail Ipswich

entertainment and themed markets. The area is also home to two libraries with co-working pods, recording studios and dedicated kid zones. A few steps away is a plethora of places to lunch, with dining that spills out onto the footpath such as Stellarossa, and dinner drawcards including Kickin’ Inn’s seafood experience, sans cutlery (yes, full permission to eat that Moreton Bay bug with your hands!).

Also bringing people to the Nicholas Street pedestrian mall are the entertainment options. Hoyts’ new six-screen cinema has daybeds and D-BOX motion recliners which synchronise movement and vibration with thrilling moments on the screen.

And there’s the state’s first General Public: a venue with eatery, tenpin bowling, arcade games, golf simulators, darts and Mini Bounce for children with trampolines and ball pits. It’s little wonder that the Nicholas Street Precinct won the Minister’s Award for Urban Design, as well as the Movement and Place Award in 2024.

A smooth journey toward history, culture and cuisine

CATH JOHNSEN takes a day trip and discovers a city with rich heritage, grand old buildings and a thriving arts and dining scene, not too far from home.

It’s a rainy late afternoon in Ipswich – one of Queensland’s oldest cities – and I step inside The Hotel Commonwealth to seek refuge, just as weary travellers and local revellers have been doing since 1910.

Feeling cosy inside the terracottacoloured exposed brick walls, I peruse the menu over a glass of wine. I decide on whipped smoked feta cheese with marinated beetroots on Romana bread, followed by barramundi with braised peas, potatoes and bearnaise sauce. It’s a gourmet selection, but traditionalists will be pleased to know the menu also features pub classics such as parmi and schnitzel.

Sitting under the oversized lampshades that hang from the high ceilings, I watch as a local band begins tuning up for the dinner

entertainment slot, and a party of family and friends commandeers the long table next to me to celebrate a 21st birthday.

The hotel, situated in the newly revitalised Nicholas Street Precinct, is positively buzzing.

Earlier in the afternoon, I walked the length and breadth of the new $311 million precinct, almost unrecognisable from its former incarnation, with its modern facades, new eateries and world-class facilities. But upon closer inspection, the older Federation-era architecture can still be spotted, with well-preserved buildings such as the Soldier’s Memorial Hall.

At the northern end of Nicholas Street lies the Bremer River. Just before that is a public space which regularly stages local

After checking out all the new and shiny attractions, I’m ready for something a little slower paced, and so I while away a few hours at the Ipswich Art Gallery.

Housed in a Heritage-Listed building at the southern end of Nicholas Street, originally constructed in 1911 as St Paul’s Young Men’s Club, the space also served as a soldiers’ rest room during World War I.

Today, it’s the city’s cultural hub, showcasing the work of local artisans, as well as national treasures.

Rachel North’s Anthology of Memory was particularly captivating. The talented ceramicist and textile artist hails from Ipswich, and her work explores “connections between the landscape and memory and how the colours and textures of a place can hold, heal or hinder memory”. Hers is one of many ever-changing exhibitions, displayed among the gallery’s permanent collection.

If your day trip spills into the evening, as mine does, the Ipswich Civic Centre –opened in 1975 by former prime minister Gough Whitlam – offers a variety of shows

from tribute bands to Shakespearean theatre in an accessible venue.

On the evening that I visit, I watch a line-up of amateur comedians test out their material on a willing audience. I doubt I’ve witnessed the ‘next big act’ in comedy, but a few punchlines elicit hearty laughs.

For a warm-up drink before you hit the civic centre, I can recommend the Rusty Nail: a moody and dimly lit bar which serves up beer, wine and classic cocktails alongside a tapas menu.

The Rusty Nail cocktail (Scotch whisky and Drambuie served over ice) is one no-nonsense item on their drinks menu. However, I opt for a bougie Elderflower Spritz, albeit a bit incongruent with the rain still pelting down outside.

The bar looks out over the Nicholas Street Precinct, which is situated only an hour from Brisbane. A day trip from Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast means there’s time to not only check out the city centre, but also other attractions that are just outside town.

In nearby Bundamba, a yarn with Jason and Maree at the Imbibis Craft Distillery is high on my list of must-dos.

The two have deservedly won a string of international accolades for their gin, with a standout being their purple Jacaranda Gin (coloured by butterfly-pea flowers), which earned silver in the 2024 London Spirits competition. Try a tasting and I challenge you to leave without a purchased bottle tucked under your arm.

There is so much to see and do in the heritage city that it can feel difficult to know where to start.

Do you want to hike to the top of Flinders Peak or don an Akubra at the

CMC Rocks country music festival?

My advice is to begin your trip with a stop at the Ipswich Visitor Information Centre.

Pick up a visitor’s guide and then find a café to peruse and create a personalised itinerary.

And if I may make one more suggestion, head to the retro Ungermann Brother’s Milk Bar on Brisbane Street (only a short walk from Nicholas Street)

to begin your day’s adventures. Over a burger, sundae, malted milkshake or cappuccino, you can soak up the nostalgia, plot your next stop and ease into the day at your own pace.

By the time the sun is setting, you’ll leave with a newfound appreciate of this corner of Queensland.

*The writer travelled courtesy of Discover Ipswich.

SIGNATURE DAY TOURS 2026

Tuesday 10th February

MONTVILLE AND YANDINA GINGER FACTORY

Includes Morning Tea. Lunch is at own expense.

Thursday 12th March

MOOLOOLABA CANAL CRUISE

Free Time & return via Scenic drive of Caloundra. Includes Morning Tea, Lunch is at own expense.

Tuesday 21st April

GALLERY WALK & CEDAR CREEK WINERY

Morning Tea at own expense. Lunch is Included

WHERE IN THE WORLD

GREENLAND has been in the news lately for reasons other than travel.

But for those who like to go to the ends of the Earth to see how villagers live, the harsh conditions they must endure and how happy they are to be in their precious corner of the world, you can’t go past Qaqortoq (meaning ‘white’ in the Greenlandic language).

Qaqortoq in southern Greenland has a population of about 3000, which makes it the country’s fifth-largest city.

On last year’s 25-night Holland America Line cruise to Canada, New England, Iceland and Greenland, passengers walked up and down streets to see houses painted in colours of the rainbow, uncover ‘the Big Snow Boot’ (a traditional Inuit boot outside Qaqortoq Hotel), marvel at the quirky rock sculptures and carvings, hike Lake Tasersuaq and soak up lively cafes and bars including Pluto Nuann.

Thursday 14th May

SUMMERLAND CAMEL FARM & DUGANDAN HOTEL

BOONAH & SCENIC RIM

Morning tea and Lunch included.

27-29 March (3 Days, 2 Nights)

WARBIRDS OVER SCONE - GOLD CLASS ENTRY. ARMIDALE, TAMWORTH, AIRSHOW, STANTHORPE.

Includes Accom, Entry to Warbirds, 2 x breakfast & dinner

$990 per person

For convenience, we offer a variety of pick-up locations primarily on the northside of Brisbane, specifically the Redcliffe and Sandgate areas.

We also serve Taigum and Aspley Hypermarket Shopping Centres, making it easier for our passengers to access our services.

Additionally, we provide pick-ups at the Eternal Flame in Ann Street, City, and, on tours heading south, we include Palmdale Shopping Centre for added convenience.

Dates and itineraries are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances that are out of our control.

TO FIND A

FOR one Queensland veteran, a simple invitation to join a trip to Norfolk Island became the beginning of a remarkable personal transformation.

Encouraged by his RSL welfare supervisor, John joined a Blue Bus Tour with little expectation — and returned home a changed man.

Living with PTSD, anxiety and periods of depression, he found unexpected support among the passengers travelling alongside him.

LEASE OF LIFE ON THE ROAD

Their warmth and companionship helped him reconnect with joy, confidence and a sense of belonging. Even his psychologist was astonished by the improvement.

That first tour sparked a new passion.

In just three years, he completed 24 Blue Bus Tours, each one strengthening his mental wellbeing and expanding his social world.

What keeps him returning is the combination of luxury, comfort and genuine human connection.

He speaks fondly of the friendly crew, the experienced driver who knows every scenic backroad, and the simple pleasures — morning tea in the park, shared laughter

and cool, filtered water available for his water bottle. His favourite journeys include the life-changing Norfolk Island tour, the Outback Pubs and Opals tour, the Backroads and Silos tour, the Tasmania adventure, and a nostalgic visit to Williamtown and the old Gan Gan Military Camp, where memories from his early military days resurfaced.

For John, Blue Bus Tours is more than travel. It’s companionship, healing and proof that new chapters can begin at any age.

Call 3820 7815 and visit bluebustours.com.au

BE A SCIENTIST IN THE LAND OF ICE AND WHALES

IN THE frozen expanse of the Antarctic, where icebergs drift silently and the waters teem with life largely unseen by most of the world, a rare adventure awaits.

With Quark Expeditions, you can join the Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales & Seals itinerary, which gives you the chance to step into the shoes of real scientists and turn every observation into a contribution to global conservation. This is citizen science at its most exciting and hands-on.

From the moment World Voyager sets course along the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, you are immersed in a world of research.

Co-developed by Ari Friedlaender, founder of the renowned Friedlaender Lab, the itinerary is designed to maximise opportunities to see migratory whales, including minke, humpback and fin whales. Guided by a research associate from HappyWhale, you actively identify individual whales, adding your observations to a global database.

Each photograph and note helps track populations and migration patterns, supporting conservation in one of the planet’s most untouched regions.

The onboard Science Hub is the heart of the experience. There, you meet expert scientists, join interactive workshops and learn how to recognise whales and other

marine mammals. Talks from polar specialists cover Antarctic wildlife, glaciology and marine ecology, giving every observation context and meaning.

Penguins and seals are observed not just as charming residents of the ice, but as key indicators in a complex ecosystem.

Birds are recorded as part of the bigger picture, helping researchers understand this fragile environment.

This Quark expedition is more than a cruise. It is a chance to contribute to science, play an active role in protecting marine life, and experience the Antarctic in a meaningful way.

Contact your local Travellers Choice agent to save up to $3100 and receive 25 per cent off with Quark Expeditions when you book by February 28.

Visit travellerschoice.com.au

APRIL 2026

Alpine High Country to the Murray Delta (11 Days)

MAY 2026

O’Reillys Rainforest Retreat (4 Days)

Wallaroo Outback Retreat (7 Days)

JUNE 2026

Darling River Run (15 Days)

Red Centre & Top End (18 Days)

JULY 2026

Lightning Ridge (7 Days)

Broome to Darwin (12 Days)

AUGUST 2026

North Queensland Savannah (11 Days)

Tropical North Queensland (12 Days)

SEPTEMBER 2026

Fraser Island (5 days)

Wallaroo Outback Retreat (7 Days)

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers (4Days)

Spring Gardens & Floriade (11 Days)

OCTOBER 2026

Wild Wild West of WA (13 Days)

Fraser Coast & Lady Musgrave Island (5 Days)

NOVEMBER 2026

Tasmania (15 Days)

DECEMBER 2026

O’Reillys (4 Days)

NSW Central Coast & Blue Mountains (11 Days)

Quark Expeditions is all about polar exploration, led by a team of the world’s most seasoned, passionate, and respected guides who ensure you get off the ship and into the adventure. Whether by helicopter, Zodiac, kayak, bike, on foot, camping, hiking or immersing in local culture, Quark offers countless ways to explore on every voyage.

South Greenland Adventure:

The Majestic Alpine Arctic

Journey through South Greenland’s fjords, glaciers and mountains with exclusive Quark excursions, helicopter access aboard Ultramarine and activities for every pace.

Departs 29 August 2026 • 14 days from $17,022*pp

Svalbard

Explorer:

Best of High Arctic Norway

Experience an immersive Arctic adventure with expert-led exploration of Svalbard’s wildlife, tundra landscapes, polar history and the remote Norwegian Arctic Islands.

Departs 22 May 2026 • 11 days from $17,234*pp

Antarctic Marine Mammals:

The World of Whales and Seals

This voyage focuses on citizen science, guided by whale experts, maximising whale sightings while supporting conservation efforts across the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.

Departs 05 March 2027 • 11 days from $18,802*pp

THE SEARCH PARTY

By Hannah Richell

Thriller

Reviewed by Jan Kent

WHEN old friends are invited for a glamping weekend in Cornwall, the book’s title indicates all will not go well.

As this plays out with the developing plot, the reader is drawn into the drama of past resentment and hurt from their student days, with the conflict between their offspring fuelling the mounting tension. With a storm threatening, emotions run high when one of the party goes missing and the group is cut off from the outside world.

So cleverly structured is the plot that the reader is constantly conjecturing: who’s missing? Which character is lying in a hospital bed? Whose body is discovered at the bottom of the cliffs?

While the number of characters at the start seems too complicated, as the story unfolds, the development of these is masterful, leading you to empathise with some and inwardly shout at others.

As the story drew to a conclusion, it compelled me to read on with some urgency, unable to foresee what was coming.

Isn’t that what we look for in a thriller?

This book had it all. Highly recommended – and I’ll be searching for the author’s past titles for my must-read list.

THE TERROR

THE IMPOSSIBLE FORTUNE

By Richard Osman

Murder

mystery

Reviewed by John

Kleinschmidt

THE Impossible Fortune is the fifth book in a series by Richard Osman that utilises the skills, contacts and talents of The Thursday Murder Club

The club is an exclusive group comprising four central characters: Elizabeth, Joyce, Ron and Ibraham – all residents of Coopers Chase Retirement Resort. At the wedding of Joyce’s daughter Joanna, best man Nick Silver tells Elizabeth that someone had tried to kill him that morning by placing a bomb under his car. Then Nick disappears.

Holly, his business partner, is murdered, revealing the existence of an accidental Bitcoin fortune secreted away in Cold Storage: an underground, high-security compound that can only be accessed using a secret code of two parts – one held by Holly and the other by Nick. Osman layers his plot with clever misdirections and intrigue. Fans will not be disappointed by the quirky contributions of our four amateur sleuths

By Dan Simmons, Historical horror

Reviewed by Annie Grossman, of Annie’s Books on Peregian

DAN Simmons’ books span the genres of science fiction, fantasy, horror and suspense.

This new book is a very clever blend of true history and supernatural horror – neither of which are my preferred genres! However, I have long been fascinated by the stories of the ill-fated Franklin Expedition which set sail in 1845 to find the rumoured North-West Passage.

The true story is frightening in itself: 120 men abandoning their ice-bound ship and vanishing into the remote, icy wilderness of the

Arctic. Simmons has stayed true to the story, using real historical characters, but has used his storytelling skills to create a tale of why the men perished, introducing a threatening and terrifying beast which has chosen to prey on the seamen.

This is a an adventure, set in one of the most remote parts of the globe, with a cast of real characters.

A unique setting and an intriguing storyline.

OF AIR AND MEN

By Damien Lay

Non-fiction/Historical mystery

AWARD-winning Australian filmmaker and explorer Damien Lay released his first book Of Air and Men about the life of famed aviator Charles Kingsford Smith recently and it has been resonating with readers, climbing best-seller lists and attracting five-star reviews.

Kingsford Smith was the first person to circumnavigate the globe and is one of the greatest long-distance flyers in history.

The book’s release coincided with the 90th anniversary of the disappearance of Kingsford Smith’s legendary Lockheed Altair 8D aircraft Lady Southern Cross.

In 1935, Kingsford Smith and co-pilot Tommy Pethybridge went missing while attempting to break the flight speed rec ord between England and Australia. The final resting place of the pilot, crew and plane has baffled historians for generations – until now.

Of Air and Men follows and tells this dramatic tale, offering the final unwritten chapter in this amazing story, now more than 90 years in the making. Lay, considered one of the world’s leading authorities on the disappearance of the Lady Southern Cross, has spent more than 20 years researching and documenting the historic event.

The wreckage was first discovered in 2009, about two kilometres off the Burmese coast on the floor of the Gulf of Martaban, using sonar imaging. It took Lay and his team 18 expeditions to Myanmar (Burma) – a country marred by political turmoil, war, pirates, militias and some of the worst diving conditions on Earth – to recover about 45 pieces from the wreck.

Of Air and Men is now available in paperback and hardcover through Amazon and good bookstores.

BRISBANE, 1975:

TENDERFOOT

By Toni Jordan, Coming-of-age nostalgia

Reviewed by Karen Weiber, of Books@Stones, Stones Corner

Andie Tanner’s world is small but whole.

Her mum is complicated, but she adores her dad and the kennel of racing greyhounds that live under their house.

Andie is a serious girl with plans: finish school with her friends, then apprentice to her father until she can become a greyhound trainer, with dogs of her own.

But real life rarely goes to plan, and the world is bigger and more complicated than Andie could imagine. When she loses

everything she cares about – her family, her friends, the dogs – it’s up to Andie to reclaim her future. She will need all her wits to survive this new reality of secrets and half-truths, addictions and crime.

Tenderfoot is the eighth novel by Brisbane’s Toni Jordan. Jordan evokes her setting and era with ease. This is a story that will certainly strike a chord with the baby boomers, with plenty of references to the pop culture of the day. A compassionate, heart-wrenching story, intertwined with resilience and strength.

With Quizmaster Garry Reynolds

1. What is the capital of Tanzania?

2. Who was the birth father of Peaches Geldof?

3. What is the main river flowing into Sydney Harbour?

4. What was the name of the cat on Matthew Flinders’ ship?

5. What is the triatomic form of oxygen?

6. Who had the hit song Roar?

7. How many points are on the largest star of the Australian flag?

8. What is the term for a pig’s foot?

9. Which nation banned the use of Q, W and X from 1928-2013?

10. What gets stuck in your head if you have an earworm?

11. Which state contains Brisbane Ranges National Park?

12. What is the safe light developed for underground coal mining?

13. What do New Zealanders call thongs?

14. Who was the woman, born in Newgate Prison, in Daniel Defoe’s novel?

15. What is the name for an Israeli collective?

16. In opera, what is the libretto?

17. What was the winning yacht in the first Sydney to Hobart race?

18. What was the first product barcode scanned in an Australian store?

19. What is the term for an elderly Russian lady?

20. What area was set aside as the port for Canberra?

20. Jervis Bay.

A song. 11. Victoria. 12. Davy Lamp. 13. Jandals. 14. Moll Flanders. 15. Kibbutz. 16. Text. 17. Rani. 18. Vegemite.

3. Parramatta. 4. Trim. 5. Ozone. 6. Katy Perry. 7. Seven. 8. Trotter. 9. Turkiye.

2.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

DOWN

1 Contractions father’s included in text(6)

2 Looks at painting of fish in vibrant colours(7)

3 Slogan agitated crowd running around at church(9)

4 A lout involved with swindle is surviving(10)

5 Divide up gin(4)

6 Draw near, somehow bypassing new location finder(5)

7 Stranger residing at rear of place is a battler(7)

8 Escape finishes after leader of desperados falls(8)

13 Detective tossed the rope at confidential informer(4,6)

ACROSS

1 Rugby gathering, tucking into beer, didn’t do well(6,3)

6 Fleet quietly moved in to invade(5)

9 Half of army understood group’s peculiar language(5)

10 Secretion from weeping wound doctor linked to operations(9)

11 Core of magma in planet contains methane(5,3)

12 Unloved dog taken in by faithful tramp?(6)

14 Fiery step-mother ordered claret, say(5-8)

17 Clumsy pair connected in a strange way(8-5)

21 Piece of auntie’s pie definitely is spotted(6)

23 Crested wave reformed with speed in the opposite direction(8)

25 Counterfeit coin fool spent in function under an assumed name(9)

26 Page, one painted in water colour(5)

27 Partakers of banquet ate roast potato(5)

28 One immediately restricted by less flexibility(9)

15 Lack of cultivation damaged root in area of gum(4,5)

16 Latitude provided in part’s renovation(4,4)

18 Imitator’s first to yield in business pact strangely(7)

19 Fugitive is to get relief after rescheduling of case(7)

20 Leaders from Slovakia and Sweden hosting summit talks(6)

22 Enthusiastic teenager missing out on a perfect score in gymnastics(5)

24 Young lady lifted equipment and left(4)

WORDFIND

QUICK CROSSWORD

Today’s Aim:

8 words: Good

12

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

1 Foot covers(5) 4 Rash; hasty(9)

Parallel(7)

10 City in northern France(7) 11 Skull(7)

12 Assistance; public amenity(7)

13 Pathological selfadmirer(9)

15 Speak whiningly(4)

17 Island(4)

19 Not seasonal(4-5)

22 Arrives at(7)

25 Town in France with a shrine to St Bernadette(7)

26 Marine bird(7)

27 Playhouse(7)

28 Divider(9)

29 Jobs undertaken(5)

1 Takes without permission(8)

2 US city known as ‘The Windy City’(7)

3 A group with a common interest(9)

4 Compensation(9)

5 Due respect(coll) (5)

6 10th US president(5)

7 Address(7)

8 English county(6)

14 Quack(9)

15 Stout(9)

16 Character in Homer’s Iliad (8)

18 Reading or copying machine(7)

20 Modernises(7)

21 Support(4,2)

23 Beauty of Muslim paradise(5)

24 Egyptian peninsula(5)

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

WORD STEP

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

CLIMB

PROSE

On display will be the latest resort style developments, as well as established villages from many different organisations. All offering a wide range of services & facilities, sizes, prices & locations, all under one roof with free admission. Don’t miss this wonderful event!

Construction is Completed - Ready and Waiting For You.

Comino, The Cove offers spacious, architect-designed apartments set directly on the Pelican Waters waterfront.

The residences feature generous two and three bedroom layouts, expansive balconies, luxury finishes, secure parking, lift access, and beautifully maintained common areas designed for everyday comfort and ease. All within a private, gated precinct. Walking distance to local amenities.

Only a small number remain. This is a rare opportunity to secure northeast-facing luxury waterfront residences. Premium