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Housing hardship THE REAL PLIGHT OF THE AGEING AND HOMELESS

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Editor’s note

t has not been a good year here. It is with great sadness that this month we announce the unexpected death of our much valued friend and colleague Russell Hunter. Russell has been writing for Your Time almost since we began and also has stepped in when I needed a holiday. He has shared with us his joy at the birth of his granddaughter and his grief after losing his life partner. He wrote from the heart and his words resonated with all of us. Last month, Your Time writer Julie Lake, whose husband died in March, was to meet Russell. They planned to compare notes on coping with bereavement. The day before their meeting, Russell advised he wouldn’t be able to make it as he had a dentist

Contents appointment. “Next time for sure,” he confidently told her. He was undergoing major dental work and implants. It was after that fateful appointment that he died, leaving us all reeling with disbelief. Russell had been working on a story about homelessness and was passionate about the topic. He felt it was more real than most of us realise. It was decided to proceed with printing that report this month as we know that this is what he would have wanted. A journalist to the end. Sadly, it now appears alongside a tribute to Russell. And we miss him. His death once again brings home that we have reached an age where the fragility of life becomes all too apparent. Along with our writers Julie Lake and Glenis Green — we have been working together since the 1970s — I have recently celebrated a milestone birthday (please indulge and let me add that at 65, I am the youngest of the three of us and we go up by fives from there). We decided that it’s best not to complain about getting old. At least we reached the milestone! Dorothy Whittington Editor

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FEATURE STORY BITS AND PIECES NEWS OUR PEOPLE CARE AFFAIRS BRAIN MATTERS HISTORY AGES AND STAGES ACTIVE LIVING MOTORING ON TRACK READER’S STORY COMMUNITY NEWS FINANCE TECHNOLOGY HEALTH WELLBEING WHAT’S ON RETIREMENT LIVING TRAVEL BOOK REVIEW TRIVIA QUIZ PUZZLES

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ON THE COVER Vietnam veteran Ted Robinson tells his story in Our People. Photo by Glenis Green.

PUBLISHER Michelle Austin 5493 1368. EDITOR Dorothy Whittington, dot@yourtimemagazine.com.au ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES 0438 717 210 or 0413 855 855. sales@yourtimemagazine.com.au FOR DIGITAL EDITIONS AND MORE yourtimemagazine.com.au DISTRIBUTION ENQUIRIES distribution@yourtimemagazine.com.au Your Time Magazine is locally owned and published by The Publishing Media Company Pty Ltd ATF The Media Trust (“the Publisher”). No part of this publication may be reproduced or copied in any form by any means without the prior written consent of the Publisher. The Publisher does not assume responsibility for, endorse or adopt the content of any advertisements published in Your Time Magazine, either as written copy or inserts, given such content is provided by third parties and contains statements beyond the Publisher’s personal knowledge. The information contained in Your Time Magazine is intended as a guide only and does not represent the view or opinion of the Publisher or its editorial staff. Professional advice should be sought before applying any of the information to particular circumstances. Whilst every reasonable care is taken in the preparation of Your Time Magazine, the Publisher and its editorial staff do not accept liability for any errors or omissions it may contain.

Please dispose of this magazine responsibly, by recycling after use.

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FEATURE STORY

Lost in the crowd with no place to call home It mostly hits women the hardest but being down and out could be only a pay cheque away for many. RUSSELL HUNTER investigates the very real plight of the ageing and homeless.

e see them on the street. Those poor folk – often with obvious mental issues – who sleep in alleyways, doorways and under bridges. But few of us imagine that we’re but two or three paydays away from sharing their fate. Homelessness is Australia’s and, increasingly, Queensland’s invisible scandal. The homeless tragedies we witness on our streets aren’t even the tip of the

iceberg. Most homeless people hide in plain sight. And increasingly they are women aged over 45. “People may not realise that the well-dressed woman you meet at a function is homeless and alone,” says Lynette Loffel of Housing for Older Women. “They are isolated. She could be a fugitive from domestic violence, divorced, cash poor and unable to afford a private

rental. The banks and mortgage lenders won’t touch her.” Some of them are couch surfing, others may be house sitting. Some sleep in their car if they have one. But all face, at some stage, the problems of clothing and feeding themselves as well as access to basic hygiene. It’s stressful and demeaning – particularly for women. “Single or divorced women over 40 find it hard to get a job,” says Ms Loffel. “They cannot be sure of being housed for the rest of their lives.” For people without a roof over their head the issue is simple, they just need to survive any way they can. But for those who seek to offer assistance and search for reasons, it can be a complex issue. “Women can become homeless for a range of reasons,” says Mark TuckerEvans, chief executive of Council of the Ageing (COTA) Queensland, a non-profit agency supported by the state government. “It could be a result of family breakdown leading to divorce. That’s just one cause.” But the common denominator is that many, if not most, are unable to buy a home. They are forced into the private rental market where owners – understandably – need to make the maximum return. As property prices escalate so too does the rent, so if the rent goes up and you can’t afford to pay there’s only one outcome. “There’s a need to ease the situation especially for women subject to domestic violence,” Mr Tucker-Evans says. “We

also advocate for alternative accommodation for renters when landlords resume their property.” And Queensland, he points out, is a state of regions. “This problem needs to be addressed at all three levels of government,” he says. “Government is looking at action plans, but we remain concerned that while some are doing well in the current circumstances, others struggle to make headway.”

“Not being able to buy a house again is an issue. Bosses think we are unemployable and it spirals down from there” Maggie Shambrook of Queensland Shelter agrees. “Yes, it’s a long and complicated story,” she says. “But where the will exists it can be addressed.” Gender inequality has fed into what is becoming a homelessness crisis. Women generally retire (if that’s the word) with substantially less superannuation than men. The pay gap contributes of course but many women will have worked in casual or part-time roles while simultaneously keeping a home and raising children. “And women tend to work in lowerpaid roles,” Ms Shambrook says.

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FEATURE STORY She cites the experience of one contemporary whose mother worked as a cleaner and earned more than the daughter who had a post-graduate degree. Over-60s women had their kids when single-income families were the norm. Such women have little if any superannuation. Their average super works out at about $80,000. It won’t fund their survival. “Many women now find themselves in a precarious position in the private rental market,” Ms Shambrook says. “Average occupancy is about two years, so these people have to move around, often sacrificing their social support groups.” Ms Shambrook estimates Queensland’s homeless at around 100,00. It’s a staggering figure. Many don’t identify as homeless, though. They may be living hand to mouth in private rentals, house sitting, house sharing – or worse. Q-Shelter, also a non-profit organisation, is working to have the problem addressed. “Your whole being goes into where you’re going to be,” Ms Shambrook says. “Health suffers. How to keep clean, clothed and fed are permanent worries. Getting the basics each day is a huge effort.” Some live in their cars, which means they have to keep a vehicle in reasonable condition. “You have to keep going,” Ms Shambrook says. “You’ll be moved on very quickly if you are found sleeping in your car. Access to showers and hygiene become more and more vital.” Yet they see themselves as needy rather than homeless.

BY THE NUMBERS Research conducted by The Salvation Army has highlighted that the most vulnerable in our community are struggling to pay for necessities such as housing, food and medications. A national survey of clients found 93 per cent were experiencing housing stress (paying more than 30 per cent of their household income on housing) and of these, 86 per cent were in extreme housing stress (paying more than 50 per cent of their household income on housing). With housing costs at an unprecedented high, those on government support payments are left with $11 a day, and those on minimum wage only $4 a day, after paying for housing. The Salvos have seen a six-fold increase in people on wages presenting to its services for help. In Queensland, 9 in 10 respondents experienced housing stress and 30 per cent reported that their housing costs exceed their income, while another 66 per cent couldn’t pay gas, electricity or phone bills on time, and 73 per cent said that being able to afford food was one of their greatest challenges. In Queensland last year, The Salvation Army assisted more than 20,000 people for emergency relief, offering nearly 31,000 sessions of care to people in need. “It is absolutely devastating to see the impact of Covid-19 on the Australian community,” Queensland public relations secretary Simon Gregory says. “The past year has shown us that anyone can find themselves in crisis, and this has manifested in The Salvos seeing people we have never seen before coming to us for support.”

In a modern nation of 25 million people it’s hard to accept that this is happening. Ms Shambrook believes it can be solved, if there is political will. “Housing is key to stability yet so many people are just two or three pay cheques away from being homeless because once you can’t pay your rent or your mortgage, that’s the road you’re on.” Lynette Loffel is, as she puts it, housed. However, since her divorce there has been a steady deterioration in her living standard. She now shares a rental property “but I am not housed for the rest of my life,” she says. And, statistically, women live longer. “So at 77, I can possibly expect another 20 years,” she says. “A long lease won’t help me. “I tried buying a property when I reached pension age but soon realised I couldn’t pay a mortgage. Not being able to buy a house again is an issue. Bosses think we are unemployable and it spirals down from there.” Part of the problem is that developers, for their own good reasons, tend to build housing estates that cater for families. That’s where they perceive their market is, but it leaves little room for nans and/or pops. “We need a new approach,” Ms Loffel says. “There needs to be new financial models so that older people can have security of housing instead of having to live at the whim of private landlords. “Some women, and men for that matter, are willing to share a house but that’s not suitable for all. There needs to be options.”

Vale Russell Hunter It is with great sadness that the team at Your Time announces the sudden and unexpected death of our dear friend and respected colleague Russell Hunter. Russell has been a long-time contributor to Your Time, most recently writing about coming to terms with bereavement after the death of his life partner last year. A journalist to the core, he would be pleased to know he had met his final deadline with this month’s feature, a topic he had identified as important. It appears as a closing salute to his work. Russell had a long and distinguished career. Born and educated in Dundee, Scotland, his work as a journalist, editor and newspaper manager has taken him around the globe. He was a daily newspaper editor in England and CEO of newspaper companies in PNG, Fiji and Samoa. Russell was co-owner of the Brisbane street paper Time Off, before moving to chief sub-editor of The Australian 1992-1996 and then editor of the Fiji Times in 1997. His devotion to the principles of democracy and media freedom resulted in his abduction and subsequent deportation from Fiji by the military dictatorship that seized government at gunpoint in 2006. He was well past 60 before realising his longheld dream of publishing a book. His thriller Solid Oil was picked up by an American publisher. In his so-called retirement years, he worked as a sub-editor for News Corp as well as being a regular writer for Your Time. Russell loved his work and had no intention of sitting about. He was already planning his next story. Russell was 73 in June. He is survived by his daughters Shonagh and Rhianna and his beloved two-year-old granddaughter Lila. He will be greatly missed by all of us.

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August 2021 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE

28/07/2021 2:32:58 PM

BITS & PIECES

LETTERS I READ about Peter Tyler and his lifelong passion for writing poetry in the July edition. What a wonderful life, reciting his poetry for organisations and competitions. Then I came to the part that hit home ... his development of “essential tremors” that limit not only his writing but all the fun of participation in presentations. He will be missed performing his verses I am sure. I agree with his sentiments exactly, that there is nothing bloody essential about them. I then started to cry as I believed I had found a soul mate. As a singer since I was four, I worked professionally most of my life but the last few years have been exceptionally enjoyable for me. In 2017 aged 75, I began presenting concerts in aged care homes. Being of the same generation as residents meant that when I sang the songs from my youth and throughout my married life I was singing “their” songs. Unfortunately, my tremors which only affect my vocal chords and chin, have now gotten worse and I recently made a very hard decision to give up singing. I had to contact 87 homes and cancel bookings and let others know I won’t be available. So Peter, I just want to let you know there is at least one person out here who knows exactly how you feel about “bloody essential tremors.” Maybe we could find a new name. Janet Heath

IN THE GARDEN — with Penny

AFTER reading Julie Lake’s article about dining last month, I came across this menu from The Living Room restaurant, from the early ‘70s. It’s both interesting and amusing. My brother took me to this restaurant for my 16th birthday (1967!) and my husband and I also enjoyed a night out here for a special occasion, probably a birthday or anniversary. “Dining out” was something we looked forward to back in the old days and was definitely an occasion for wearing our best clothes. Is that expression still used? Julianne Caplice

IT WAS nice to catch up with friends, listeners and readers at the recent Nambour Garden Expo. What a dedicated lot we are! Friday was a sea of umbrellas as everyone searched for their special plants in the rain. It’s too cold for any bugs at the moment but a great time to get physical, digging, pruning and mulching or making new garden beds. Lots of dandelions are coming up in lawns along with a few other species. You can either dig these by hand or use a selective herbicide or weed and feed. Do not let any weeds flower as you will have another crop to get rid of. Sweet peas are starting to flower along with roses. It has also been a good year for camellias. Keep the vege patch coming along with liquid fertiliser. It is also time to check your supply of seeds for spring plantings of corn, lettuce, spring onions, tomatoes, radish and cucumbers. Pansies, calendulas, zinnias and cleomes will brighten up the flower garden. Time to purchase fertilisers for the warmer months which aren’t too far away. Happy gardening!

Having inspected the menus, writer Julie Lake comments: The wine list shows the simplicity and sophistication of our tastes back then – how few wines were commonly available. And there’s not a truffle or aoli or jus or ceviche in sight! It was just good, plain meats with some enhancing but essentially simple dressings. But then look at the available seafood – lobsters! And the prices! On balance I think we have lost more than we have gained in Queensland when it comes to dining out.

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28/07/2021 2:34:30 PM

NEWS

Month to make connections QUEENSLAND Seniors Month is coming up in October, with hundreds of events and activities planned for people of all ages, cultures, and abilities. LISA HODGKINSON explains what it’s all about.

or the first time in its 61-year history, the celebration of Queensland Seniors will be held over an entire month so events can be enjoyed at a more relaxed pace. During the past six decades it has been held at different times between July and October, but by having Seniors Month in October, celebrations can begin on the United Nations International Day of Older Persons on October 1 and finish with National Grandparents Day on October 31. The first Seniors Week, or old People’s Week as it was then known, was initiated by COTA Queensland in 1960. This year’s celebration has the theme Social Connections. In the words of author Tony Robbins, “as humans, we need to feel connected with someone or something.

Connection often comes from love and affection. We seek connection with our family, friends or significant others; connection can also come from ideals and values. Generosity and kindness are cornerstones of this human need.” This past year and a half has been a bit tough. We have been separated, segregated, and yet somehow, most of us have found ways to stay connected. While our conventional ways of connection may have been replaced by video, emails and phone calls our basic human need to feel safe and secure; stretched and stimulated; connected to and part of the wider community; and a sense of meaning about life and what we do, to name a few, has not wavered. Feeling socially connected, especially in a COVID world, is more important than ever and

it can provide great health benefits and improve quality of life. In COTA’s recent national survey, The State of the (Older) Nation, the majority of the Queensland respondents (70 per cent) felt in-person social groups or clubs may help, in general, older Australians to feel less isolated or lonely. Whether it be attending a dance or a cooking class, a morning tea or concert, sharing a meal, an experience, a passion, or just having a chat with a neighbour over the fence, we simply feel good when we connect. Queensland Seniors Month is coordinated by COTA Queensland on behalf of the Queensland Government. Lisa Hodgkinson is COTA Queensland Seniors Month Coordinator. Visit qldseniorsmonth.org.au or phone 1300 738 348.

TGA RULES ON PHILIPS CPAP MACHINE RISK THE Therapeutic Goods Administration has announced that a large number of Philips ventilators and positive air pressure machines – also known as BiPAP or CPAP – need to be repaired. Some machines manufactured before April 26 this year contain soundmuffling foam that may break down and be inhaled when the machine is being used. “If your machine is one of the affected models, you should speak with your sleep doctor or GP about whether or not you should keep using your machine,” Australasian Sleep Association president Associate Professor Alan Young said. Positive air pressure devices are used to treat sleep

apnoea, keeping a patient’s airway open at night and allowing them to function properly during the day. Ventilators are used for people with shallow breathing due to lung disease or muscle weakness. “Patients really rely on these machines to keep them feeling well and productive and in some cases to keep them alive. It’s very important that you discuss your individual situation with your sleep doctor or GP and continue to use your machine until that time.” Symptoms that patients might experience from affected machines include headache, irritation of eyes, nose, airway or skin, cough, chest pressure, nausea/vomiting and sinus infection. Prof Young said the problem was rare and there had been no serious health problems but patients should register their machine with Philips, and discuss their individual situation with their sleep doctor or GP. Visit philips.com/srcupdate

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Sunshine Coast

28/07/2021 2:35:26 PM

NEWS

GROUP FINDS LEARNING A SIGN(ING) OF THE TIMES THE signs are all good for a group of Sunshine Coast retirement village residents who have found a way to train their brains, learn a new skill to help others and increase their friendship circle. Residents of The Avenue Maroochydore are learning Auslan sign language with the help of Nikki de Jonge, a diversional therapist from St Vincent’s Aged Care Services facility opposite the retirement community on Baden Powell St. Nikki started signing classes at St Vincent’s and The Avenue on the same day last year after Covid lockdowns halted visitors coming to the nursing home. “Nikki started teaching us basic greetings like ‘how are you today?’ As time has gone on, we’ve got better and grown really close as a group of about 10 doing the classes,” Val Merwood, a resident of The Avenue, says. Nikki introduced Mereaira Poutu to the retirees after she moved into St Vincent’s. Mereaira, who was born deaf, loves coming over to the village to join the signing classes.

The Avenue residents, from left, Margaret Fletcher, Val Merwood and Ilona Speed with St Vincent’s resident Mereaira Poutu and Auslan instructor Nikki de Jonge. “When the class is signing, Mereaira says she feels happy that the others are coming into her world,” Nikki says. Val says learning Auslan has been not only a valuable brain training tool but the participants now feel confident they could help if a deaf person in public needed support. “Not only would we be able to help someone but for us it’s important for our own mental stimulation. It is providing us with the same benefit as learning a new language. If we were to learn French, Spanish or

Latin how could we actually use it in our own lives now? But with signing we see the benefits and its usefulness,” Val says. “Now that we have been doing the classes for a few months we are trying to move into more conversation with our signing. We say ‘Allison tell us what you did this week’ and then Ilona will also reply.” The hour-long signing lessons are casual and friendly with two classes on Mondays and a beginners’ group on Tuesdays. Classes are open to the public, call 5479 6482.

DISABILITY EXPO A ONE-STOP SHOP FOR RESOURCES IN REGIONAL Queensland, people living with a disability and their carers struggle to find the same resources as those who live in larger cities, often because they simply don’t know what local services and support is available. But the good news is there’s often more resources on hand without having to travel long distances to metropolitan areas if you know where to look. The Sunshine Coast Regional Disability Expo in Caloundra next month is aimed at bringing the disability community together to empower, learn, share and experience latest technologies through a variety of exhibitors under one roof. Queensland mother Sharon Fulwood, who has two disabled children, began organising Regional Disability Expos when she was struggling to navigate the disability industry. She has used her personal insight and knowledge gained

over years to help others find the support they need. “Members of the community in relatively good health may ask why they would want to attend a disability expo, but there are people around you that have hidden disabilities such as mental health, or are in early stages of their conditions and are slowly losing mobility, hearing or sight,” she says. “Disability can and does affect people of all ages and whether you require a hearing aid or a walking stick or scooter to be mobile, a physiotherapist to keep you moving or something more, exhibitors can assist with living life to its fullest.” As well as a wide range of services and suppliers for people in the disability sector, such as wheelchairs, sports and fitness, speech aids, NDIS services and health services, there will be free workshops. The Sunshine Coast Regional Disability Expo will be held at the Caloundra Indoor Stadium in North St, Golden Beach on Thursday, September 16.

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28/07/2021 2:35:51 PM

OUR PEOPLE

Veteran helps his mates find their peace The peace and quiet of the Outback is helping restore the soul of the traumatised. GLENIS GREEN meets Vietnam war veteran Ted Robinson who turned to a hut in the bush as he came to grips with his own demons.

Ted Robinson with one of the old studio cameras used by his father Bill at Robinson Studios.

ustic, wide-open spaces and the screech of galah flocks could not be further from the sweaty, tangled jungles of Vietnam - and that’s just how

Ted Robinson likes it. A veteran of Vietnam’s bloody war, Ted has carved out a peaceful niche in Australia’s Outback as respite from the ongoing flashbacks of

combat and now shares it with other traumatised returned veterans and first responders, as part of a novel healing process. Many people will remember Ted, now 71, as chief photographer at the Sunshine Coast Daily newspaper. His father, Bill, operated Robinson Studios, one of the first studios on the Sunshine Coast. In his job, Ted covered the news from murder scenes and car accidents to new babies and fashion shoots. But when the PTSD of serving in Vietnam combined with his hectic job caught up with him some years ago, Ted realised he needed to slow down. “When I sort of fell over and gave up work at the Sunshine Coast Daily, my kids were still in primary school and I used to go out near Adavale where a mate was managing a property to get rid of the stress,” he said. “I used to think how great it would be to have a veterans’ retreat there.” When, while en route to the Birdsville races one day, he spotted an old hut at Adavale and two blocks of land around it for sale for the princely sum of $200, it seemed that fate had stepped in. He and two mates bought it from the

local council, which had reclaimed it due to unpaid rates. Situated 1000 km from his Sunshine Coast home with Quilpie as the closest major town, the hut was an old Cobb & Co staging post-cum-post office in Adavale, a tiny centre with a population of around 16. “For 20 years I’ve been going there … there’s nothing, just peace and quiet,” Ted says.

As president of the Sunshine Coast Vietnam Veterans Association, Ted originally centred the veterans’ retreat on a nearby property called Alaric, but after 14 years, access to the property had ceased, and the focus switched to Adavale.

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Sunshine Coast

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OUR PEOPLE ambulance officers, and their family members. As well as the PTSD from serving in the 102 and 105 Field Batteries of the Royal Australian Artillery in Vietnam during 1968 and 1969, Ted believes he also suffered the effects of being in contact with Agent Orange. In 2018 he underwent open heart surgery for an aortic aneurysm. His experiences have made him especially passionate about supporting and caring for veterans and he has been active in the RSL in pushing for Vietnam veteran recognition in particular, as well as holding key positions. “It’s very satisfying to help people to

understand what they’re going through,” he says. Now married to Pip, with whom he has two sons, Ted also has two sons from his first marriage to Marilyn and now five grandchildren. He knows from experience – and comments in the visitors’ book – just how much his efforts in creating a safe and peaceful space for veterans and first responders have meant for his own and other families. “Some of the comments – the wives say the change in their husbands in just a week at Adavale has been amazing. It’s just having a sympathetic ear and the quietness and life out there,” Ted says.

Ted Robinson at the hut at the Adavale retreat where veterans can get away from it all. A charity was formed and the hut and land transferred into its name and work began on cleaning up the property, building a lagoon and installing mining dongas donated by a generous benefactor. With eight rooms with ensuites, air conditioning and fridges, Ted describes the new facilities now as “unbelievable”. While hundreds of veterans from all over Australia passed through the Alaric retreat before it switched to its new site at Adavale, Ted says the therapeutic benefits remain the same. “There’s camaraderie, understanding … and magnificent sunsets … it’s a very

healing place. It’s quiet or you can go fishing or yabbying, hike or just read a book. You can do as much or as little as you want to.” Ted says Adavale is now looking to involve the Younger Heroes organisation based on the Gold Coast. It would provide a place for fathers traumatised by of war in places like Afghanistan, who may have disconnected from their children can come with their kids and chill out together. Four rooms are open and nominal fees are charged for the veterans, as well as stressed first responders such as fire and

An aerial view of the property where extra rooms have been added behind the original hut.

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August 2021 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 11

28/07/2021 2:36:42 PM

CARE AFFAIRS

Take care of your home care Much has changed during the past four years since home care was reformed. KENDALL MORTON reflects on the changes and what you should be asking.

ou choose your doctor, plumber and mechanic. You learn to trust them and if you can’t, you choose again. Until a few years ago, you did not choose your home care provider. Instead, you were matched with a provider who had the level of package for which you were eligible. This changed on February 27, 2017, when in a major reform, the federal government flipped the home care model on its head. Home care packages were assigned directly to the eligible person. We now have a system that is driven by consumer needs and choices. You can shop around, decide who will be your home care provider and take your package to another service if needs are not met. This is fine if you have good advocacy skills or a family member to help you. For some folks though, it’s not easy. They stay with their provider even if they are unhappy. Here’s an update on what you should be asking a potential home care provider. What are your management fees? All providers charge a management fee for administering your home care package. Fees can be up to 40 per cent. Higher fees will cut into hours of service. This could be the difference between having a

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physiotherapy session each week or missing out on shopping help. What other fees are there? You may be charged travel costs for your carer. All home care providers must meet award conditions and pay staff accordingly. Travel costs are legitimate. Check your monthly statement so you know what’s happening. Some providers charge for processing invoices. If you have a handyman in, a provider may add up to 20 per cent when they take the funds from your package to pay the tradesman. This adds up. Ask for an indicative budget. Do you have an exit fee? Despite the gains of the last few years,

some providers still charge exit fees. These can be as high as $2000. While there are some administrative processes when you leave a provider, these can be covered in the normal management fees. Excessive exit fees can act as a disincentive to changing. Ask if you will be charged an exit fee to move into residential care. The usual notice period for leaving a provider is two to four weeks. This will be on your service agreement. Remember, you sign a service agreement, not a contract. You are free to move your package whenever you want. When can I have help? Discuss your routines with your proposed provider and see what schedule you can agree on. Providers will do their best to meet your preferences. However some flexibility is needed as there is a critical shortage of care workers nationwide. Do I get a monthly statement? This should come in a timely manner to show what has been spent, what fees were charged and what funds are still available. The home care subsidy accrues daily. Unspent funds carry over to the next month. Mistakes can happen so it’s important to check regularly. How many different carers will come

through my home? Fewer carers is preferable. You are more likely to have regular carers if your weekly schedule is consistent. Carers want consistency too. What is the phone support like? Do some research: Call your proposed provider during office hours, in the evenings and on the weekend. Do they answer the phone? If not, that’s a warning bell. Is this provider a local business? Using a local service means you are dealing with fewer people. They get to know you. Local providers are part of your community. With a state-wide or national provider, you may find more of your funds are eaten up in administration charges. The purpose of home care packages is to support older Australians with significant health and mobility issues to live at home for longer. This is a worthy goal, but it is costly. These taxpayer funds need to be used in a fair and accountable manner to ensure home care services are sustainable and available for future generations. Kendall Morton is Director of Home Care Assistance Sunshine Coast to Wide Bay. Call 5491 6888 or email kmorton@ homecareassistance.com

Sunshine Coast

28/07/2021 2:37:04 PM

BRAIN MATTERS

Train your body – benefit your brain Like all living creatures, humans are designed to move, and when we don’t our health suffers. KAILAS ROBERTS explains how regular exercise can reduce the risk of dementia.

s with all lifestyle interventions, the earlier you start incorporating regular exercise into your day the better, but it is never too late to start. With age, there may be physical conditions that impact on exercise capacity – pain, stroke, heart disease and the like - but health practitioners such as your local GP, a physiotherapist or an exercise physiologist can usually still find ways for you to safely remain active. Regular physical activity is probably one of the most potent weapons we have against cognitive decline. Studies suggest that it helps the brain in a number of ways and reduces the risk of developing dementia. It may also help slow the rate of decline after dementia has set in, though more research is required to be sure of this latter finding. Even if it doesn’t alter the course of dementia, it provides a number of other benefits including better mental

health, improved energy and better sleep. So, how does it help? Well, there are two broad mechanisms. The first is through improving vascular health, meaning that we get better blood flow to the brain. The oxygen the blood carries as well as the nutrients it contains are better able to nourish the brain. The second is by increasing the levels of molecules that directly help in brain growth and maintenance. One in particular, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), has been shown to increase with exercise and this increase has been associated

with reduced shrinkage, and possibly even growth, of critical brain structures. Current Australian guidelines suggest exercising for at least 30 minutes most days a week (preferably all) at a moderate intensity. This means at a level where you can talk but not sing! Variety is also important – it is best to include aerobic exercise and resistance training. Aerobic activities include brisk walking, jogging, swimming and cycling. Resistance training means using your own body weight or other weights to promote muscle growth. I also encourage patients to have short periods of higher intensity exercise built into the regimen (as long as it is medically safe of course): there seems to be an especial benefit from this extra effort. There is also evidence to suggest that exercise in the company of others gives your brain more of a boost than

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that can help get and keep you going. An accountabili-buddy can be very helpful – ideally a friend or family member who exercises with you and who will be let down if you decide to pull out! Having fitness goals is also very motivating – make them clear, measurable and achievable. Keep moving – your brain will thank you for it!

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exercising alone. This may be because of the social connection, which is good for the brain itself, though also perhaps you may push yourself that little bit harder with others around. Then there is incidental exercise – all the physical activity we engage in where the exercise is a by-product. This could be walking to the coffee shop, gardening, or simply moving around the house. We spend much more time potentially doing this than prescribed exercise and it all helps. For those unaccustomed to exercise, it can seem a little daunting but there are a couple of things that can put and keep you on track. Firstly, it is probably fair to say that more benefit is to be had going from none to a little exercise than from a moderate to a high amount, so don’t worry about hitting the ideal target straight away. Secondly, there are strategies

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28/07/2021 2:37:50 PM

HISTORY

Rock a star since the Dream Time Dunethin Rock is our own grand monolith, offering a magnificent panorama of the Maroochy River and its surrounds. AUDIENNE BLYTH writes of its significance to generations on the Sunshine Coast.

The view across the Maroochy River and canefields to Mount Coolum from Dunethin Rock in the 1950s.

he beauty of the views from Dunethin Rock may be one of the district’s best-kept secrets. It was an Aboriginal burial ground, an ancient tomb, and a gathering point and more recently, a part of life on the Maroochy River. A 1925 writer claimed: “Back in 1875, when living on the Maroochy River, a few miles from Yandina, at a place called Donathim, and close to a camp of over four hundred blacks, I saw an immense rock of a sort of sandstone formation, about 30ft high. “At the base of the rock, which was almost circular, there were a number of cavities of the shape of an inverted V about five feet high and four to six feet deep. Well, every one of those holes contained human bones in all stages of decay, while not far away from the rock there were several bodies bound round with sheets of bark, and resting on horizontal limbs of trees, not long dead. “This camp was the headquarters of a number of tribes, and the sepulchre was called Donathim. The camp in question was an ideal one. It was bordered by the river and a tidal lake of several acres in extent, from which an

unlimited number of fish could be obtained.” The carpet snake, Cabool, is believed to be the totem of the Aborigines of this area thus the name of a nearby creek is Caboolture Creek. Aboriginal man Andrew Ball gave the meaning of Dunethin or Doonathan, as he called it, as being “a lake”. Timber-getters collected rafts of logs at Dunethin and believed the Aboriginal word origin was “dhu” meaning trees, and “yungathin” meaning swim, place of swimming trees. It was spelt Dunethim until the 1970s, but since then has been officially spelt with the “n” at the end. The first European settlers came up the river, the highway into the hinterland, from the 1860s in search of timber. As early as 1873, Dunethin Rock was seen as a possible Reserve and no European was allowed to select any of the land around it. In 1901, a Recreation Reserve of 210ha was gazetted around Dunethin Rock. Within this area, reserves for a school in 1911, a School of Arts in 1913, recreation and sports grounds, camping grounds and roads have meant that the

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original area is much reduced. (The school closed in 1972 and the School of Arts in 1963). After the record flood of 1893, the Manthey family were successful in an application for two acres (just under a hectare) at the base of the rock. They explained that it was the only ground above flood level the length of the river, where they might find safety. From 1909 to the 1960s, riverboats delivered mail and supplies to the

families who lived along the river. By the 1960s cars and trucks became common and the road was used more than the river for transport. The cane industry dominated from the 1890s to the closure of the Moreton Mill in 2003. The first district tourism occurred in 1910 when a party of government officials toured the river. They believed it important to conserve beauty spots such as fine patches of scrub along the river. Dunethin Rock was included. By the 1920s and 1930s, cane trams and boats delivered visitors on excursions from cities and towns. They came to picnic, climb Dunethin Rock or to partake of the river’s abundance of fish and crabs. Dunethin Wharf served the community well with swimming carnivals and regattas. The Nambour and District Scouting Association leases an area for scout camps and a number of buildings have been relocated there. Dunethin Lake is part of the Maroochy River canoe trail. Audienne Blyth is a member of the Nambour Historical Museum, open Wednesday to Friday, 1pm-4pm and Saturday 10am-3pm. All welcome.

The view from Dunethin Rock to Mount Coolum today.

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AGES & STAGES

by Mocco Wollert

RECENTLY, I was going to introduce my friend Annette to an acquaintance when my mind went blank and I could not remember her name. This woman who I have known for more than 60 years, the woman who is my best friend. For the life of me, I could not remember her first name. I mumbled something, totally embarrassed, when my friend stepped in and said, “my name is Annette”. We all laughed and assured each other that forgetfulness was part of our lives. If you came into my office, you would see that my desk is covered in yellow post-its, each one reminding me of something I have to do or the name of someone I have to call. I also have a large paper desk diary because I don’t trust myself with putting things into my phone to remind me of things to do – because I forget to look at my phone. On my kitchen bench is a small

jotter block with a pencil so I can write down immediately any food I need to buy. Have you ruined a pot or pan by leaving them on the stove too long? I have, a few! When I put something on the hotplate to boil, I have the tendency to walk away just for a minute. Then, I become engrossed in whatever I am doing and that boiling saucepan has gone completely out of my mind. So far, I have been lucky, no fire in the kitchen. Now I have trained myself to set my kitchen timer whenever anything is on the stove. One of the worst occasions of forgetfulness was when two couples turned up at my door for a small dinner party. I couldn’t have – surely, I couldn’t have, put the wrong date into my desk diary – or could I? I had not set a dinner table, I had not cooked a meal, had not prepared pre-dinner nibbles but thank God we had a couple of bottles of wine in the fridge. We made a night of it by calling in pizzas and I did not lose them as friends. I do crosswords, I play scrabble, I read, I write this column every month and lots of poetry and short stories in-between. I torture my body in the gym to be physically strong and mentally alert so you would think that my brain gets exercised enough to stay alert. Obviously not. I often wonder why we become forgetful. Is it a natural progression, a natural part of our deterioration as we age? Or is it all those wonderful glasses of wine I have enjoyed in my life, the cocktails that turned an evening into a fairy tale? If so, I feel it was worth it. There is one thing about forgetfulness which is good: when our brain eliminates bad experiences from our memory which we had in the past; when memories of hurt and hardship experienced during our life become indistinct or fade away altogether. May you remember good things and forget the bad.

by Cheryl Lockwood

IT’S amazing how many thoughts you have when you are airborne. Admittedly, my feet were barely 30cm off of the ground, but that was enough time to think about an appropriate landing. I went with a land and roll. The alternative was a sprawl on to the concrete and possible gravel rash. Perhaps the landing technique was learned from my one and only parachute jump. As a 22-year-old, I agreed to this activity after a few drinks at the pub. It was the 1980s and apparently acceptable to jump solo from a plane after only a weekend of training. Obviously, my mates and I survived. Recently, I was out on one of my shuffle/jogs when a young dog ran up to me. I was in a dog off-leash area and happy to greet friendly canines. Unfortunately, in his enthusiasm, the dog ended up under my feet, sending me through the air towards the unforgiving path. The fall was anything but graceful. The dog was excited that I was now sitting on the ground and thought that the full tail-wagging, face-licking treatment was needed. With a mortified look, the dog’s owner offered countless apologies and helped me up. Luckily, I was unhurt and

found it funny. I felt bad when the hapless pup was promptly put back on his lead. He had been having a great time until I came along. It got me thinking about “taking falls” – under 50, we trip or stumble; over 50, we take a fall. “What happened?” they ask. “She took a fall.” This is met with a knowing nod. As if they’d said, “she took a holiday.” We don’t need to leave home to become a victim. My Mum recently tripped over the vacuum cleaner. “Oh no,” I exclaimed, “What did you hit?” “Just the carpet.” I had meant what body part. She said, “just my head”. Fortunately, she was fine, but many older people suffer injuries, from a bit of bruising to broken bones. According to the Australian and New Zealand Falls Prevention Society, 30 per cent of people over 65 fall over once a year. Interesting. Not just the statistic, but the fact that such a society exists. There are even classes for older people on preventing falls. I doubt I’m ready for that class, but I hope not to “take a fall” in the future. I prefer to take baths and naps. Sometimes at the same time. Take care and stay upright!

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1300 899 222 | mckenzieacg.com 16 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / August 2021

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Sunshine Coast

28/07/2021 2:39:00 PM

ACTIVE LIVING

Build up strength and find Arthritis Moves Living with arthritis is a daily challenge, with swollen joints, chronic pain and disturbed sleep all taking their toll. TRISTAN HALL recommends a new online course that focuses on strength training.

rthritis can stop you doing the things you love and isolate you from others. You are less inclined to be active so your muscles can weaken and waste away. Cold winter days don’t help. So what does? According to Arthritis Australia, strength training is one way forward. It can help you improve your posture, balance and mobility. You become less fatigued. Strength training can stop your muscles wasting away. In fact, research shows muscles can grow with strength training. You can gain stamina and lose weight. It is also good for mood and general confidence. With strength training, the muscles work harder than in everyday activities. You work against resistance. This is done by using hand weights, exercise bands, household items or your own body weight. For instance, bench push-ups and squats are strength exercises.

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Walking in itself is not a strength exercise but standing on one leg builds strength. It’s important to get professional help so you are exercising the right way, avoiding pain and extending your skills. It’s easy to stick with a familiar exercise routine but you will gain more benefit from a varied program. Our bodies tend to stagnate if we don’t mix it up. To help with professional guidance, Arthritis Queensland has been funding online exercise programs. The next program is called Arthritis Moves and will run for 12 weeks. The program focuses on strength training to reduce

pain and increase mobility and flexibility. Groups are kept small so instructors can give individual help as needed. Each instructor is a health professional such as an exercise physiologist. You can access the classes for free or contribute according to your circumstances. There is a pre-assessment. Once you register and select your preferred time and day, you will be assigned to a group. Given the online nature of this program, you may be assigned to a teacher from anywhere in Queensland. Having the sessions online means they are accessible if you are housebound, in lockdown or living in a remote community. To find out more visit the Arthritis Queensland website and look for Arthritis Moves. Alternatively, call them on 1800 011 041. Tristan Hall is an exercise physiologist with Full Circle Wellness. Call 0431 192 284 or visit fullcirclewellness.com.au

FIT HAPPENS With Tom Law A NUMBER of years ago I was contracted by Community Assisted Transport to give some of their clients a beachside experience. The clients were bussed to Redcliffe, and I was there to meet and greet them then take them for couple of hours to enjoy the beach. They were, in some instances, not the most mobile. Some were, but they were mainly women and without telling how old they were, all of them were past retirement age. I would take them for a little walk and then get them to take off their shoes and wade in the seawater. Once or twice the sea was full of seaweed and not suitable so I got them to wade in the local lagoon at Redcliffe. In most instances they needed assistance to walk on the sand and beach and once or twice I carried them to the water. I would dry their feet for them, put on their shoes and we would buy some chips and sauce and just enjoy the scenery and talk about whatever they wanted. It was hardly work for me as I loved it and so too did the clients.

Is it any wonder? Seawater is full of minerals and apart from being really good for us, there is something nice about taking off your shoes and getting sand between your toes while cool water swirls around your feet. Studies tell us that sunlight is great for us and is thought to release the hormone serotonin into the body. Serotonin can lift your mood, calm you and even help concentration. How about just taking in the fresh salty air that the beach provides? Not everyone lives on the beach in Australia, although 80 per cent of us live near the coast. A trip to the beach every now and then has so many benefits. Even if you just sit, rest and daydream, the elements provide great rehabilitation for body and soul. Regardless of being active, still working or retired, I recommend regular visits to the beach even if swimming is not on the agenda. Tom Law is author of Tom’s Law Fit Happens.Visit tomslaw.com.au

August 2021 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 17

28/07/2021 2:39:24 PM

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MOTORING

Stylish family wagon ticks all the boxes Finding the right mix of people mover and sports utility vehicle is an enduring challenge. BRUCE McMAHON suggests the Hyundai Palisade could be just what it takes to change the perceptions of both.

This Palisade is the company’s flagship, tagged as an SUV. Yet, despite some models being offered with all-wheel drive, these are unlikely to get a work-out in the rough-andtumble of the Australian bush like, maybe, a Land Rover Discovery or its ilk. No, this Korean-built, Australian-chassis tuned machine is a neat compromise between often lumbering SUVs with full off-road capabilities and a bare-bones, conservative MPV. For the Palisade – especially if

you have the cash for a $65,000 version with turbo-diesel, all-wheel drive and a swag of comfort and convenience gear plus eight seats – is a wellbehaved luxury wagon with good road manners and the ability to handle indifferent road surfaces. It goes (with a proper prod), slips through the eight-speed automatic transmission with intelligence (or the use of paddle shifters if need be) and stops and steers with confidence considering its bulk. The only

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downside here was around-town fuel consumption trending over 10 litres per 100km. And for that all-important look-at-me effect, the Hyundai is a handsome machine with a fair bit of flash about it. The grille and frontal treatment is bold and it has a road presence which wouldn’t look out of place in downtown Hollywood. Yet it’s the cabin’s interior that most impresses, with comforts, conveniences and modern technologies for up to eight occupants, beginning with an audio system which can amplify a driver’s commands to unruly third-row passengers plus push buttons for the transmission (then again, didn’t the De Soto sedan have that back in the 1950s?). There are, of course, all manner of aids and sensors to stop a driver a) moving out of the traffic lane; b) reversing into a post or pedestrian; c) side-swiping the car next door; d) falling asleep

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and more. There are traction and stability controls while all-wheel drive Palisades feature switchable driving modes for various road conditions from snow to rock to sand. And everyone, from driver to back seat passengers, has decent comforts and seating positions. There’s air conditioning and USB ports for all, plus the ability to turn down rear audio speakers to allow drivers to rock on while others nap. Entry to the third row is helped by electric functions for folding and moving second row seats. Clever stuff includes a Rear Occupant Alert which, for 24 hours after locking up, monitors movement inside and hits the horn if the dog has been left behind. The Hyundai Palisade is a good-looking, well-sorted family wagon with style, comfort and substance. It will be far bettered suited to some families than many of today’s so-called SUVs.

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ack in the 1980s, people movers or mini-vans or MPVs, became a bit boring, a bit old-school. Useful, yes, but staid and too suburban for some tastes. Even the best of the seven and eight-seaters – the Chrysler Voyager, Toyota’s Tarago and the Honda Odyssey – couldn’t escape being scorned as a soccer mum’s taxi. Compounding their social fall was the emergence around then of better Sports Utility Vehicles, comfortable wagons with four-wheel drive and off-road ability, often as many seats and tonnes more cool. Yet today it’s those shiny, unmarked Prados and such which are used for school runs that draw the cynical smiles. Very yesterday. So along comes a $60,000plus Hyundai wagon to add fresh style and substance to school and sport drop-offs – a multi-seat wagon that neatly blurs the line between SUV and people mover.

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Sunshine Coast

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August 2021 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 19

28/07/2021 4:28:03 PM

ON TRACK

By the numbers – where you fit into retirement Are you retired? JUDY RAFFERTY looks at the statistics for you to work out where you might fit in the profile of retired people in Australia.

ccording to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the definition of retirement no longer requires people to have worked in a job for at least two weeks. The definition now requires only having worked in a job for any duration, including jobs that lasted for less than two weeks. Given this definition, the following statistics have been identified. In Australia at the last census, there were 3.9 million retirees – that’s quite a large percentage of the voting population. Added to the 3.9 million, were another half million who said that they intended to retire within the next five years. Of existing retirees, 55 per cent were women, with the population of retired women increasing more than men. Women retire sooner than men. On average, people said that they intended to retire at 65, but interestingly, the average retirement age (this includes all retirees) was 55.4 years – 55 per cent of those over 55 were retired. THE TOP 3 REASONS RETIREES LEFT THEIR LAST JOB WERE: • Reached retirement age or eligible for superannuation (46 per cent) • Own sickness, injury or disability (21 per cent) • Retrenched, dismissed or no work available (11 per cent) Retired women were more likely to have left their last job to care for an ill, disabled or elderly person than men (8 per cent compared to 2 per cent). Those intending to retire stated that the main factor that

would influence their decision about when to retire was financial security. But there is a significant gender difference in achieving financial security. The government pension is the main source of income for most retirees – for 49 per cent of retired men aged 45 years and over versus 44 per cent for retired women aged 45 years and over. Superannuation was the main source of income for 30 per cent of men compared to only 17 per cent of women, and 7 per cent of men had no personal income compared to 30 per cent of women. Lack of superannuation and personal income put women in a precarious financial position in retirement. Of retired women, 36 per cent relied on their partner’s income to meet their living costs at retirement compared to 7 per cent of retired men. However, a third of women are not in a relationship by retirement age and so do not have a partner to rely on. Some 34 per cent of single women over 60 live in permanent income poverty compared to 27 per cent of single older men and 24 per cent of couples, according to the research by Adjunct Associate Professor

Dr Susan Feldman and Dr Harriet Radermacher from Monash University. Single women aged over 60 and living in Australia belong to the lowest income earning family group. This group, according to the 2017 HILDA survey, earns on average, less than $30,000 a year. Therefore, it’s also the most likely household type to live in poverty. There is a real cost to the gender pay gap, to being a carer (women make up over two-thirds of Australia’s primary carers and 55 per cent of all carers) and to taking on average a six-year break for child bearing and rearing. The Women in Super report states that for a 30-year-old on an annual salary of $50,000, a six-year career break costs $77,000 in lost super accumulation at retirement. But would you trade your offspring for more super? Regardless of gender, if you are feeling a little downhearted after reading these statistics take heart from the good news. The Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension Index compared the retirement systems of 39 countries around the world and ranked Australia fourth. We follow the Netherlands, Denmark and Israel. Even though Australia has dropped from third to fourth place, it is still not bad going. I am happy to live here and I hope you are too. Judy Rafferty is the author of Retirement Your Way, A Practical Guide to Knowing What You Want and How to Get It. Available at all good bookshops and online.

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TEN FINANCIAL TIPS for happy days By Patricia Howard 1. Don’t grow old and grey. Go harlequin! Don’t live your retirement the way your parents did or according to some outdated rule book. Don’t skimp on the here and now, so you can leave a nest egg for your children. 2. Your half a million nest egg Every Australian is eligible for the age pension. While it is means tested, this is the equivalent of having $500,000 in retirement savings. More, it’s secure, indexed for inflation and you will never lose it – it’s your long-lost retirement nest egg. 3. Make good choices Just as a healthy diet focuses on good food choices, choose good investment options. Think high-yielding dividends spiced up by franking credits and served with a dish of capital growth on the side. 4. Give up the (financial) smokes By focusing on needing a million to retire, the financial industry makes people anxious which prompts risk-taking. Don’t put your money into anything you don’t understand. 5. Live like a millionaire Learn to live off investments just like millionaires do. As John Travolta once said, “I learnt very early how millionaires live. They never spend their capital, just the income it generates and they always get good advice”.

7. Families – love ‘em and leave ‘em Families can be a financial burden as well as a source of happiness. Never speak to your family or loved ones about your financial situation except in general terms and never allow your savings to become part of regular conversations. 8. Sexually transmitted poverty Love lives and financial affairs can easily become intertwined. If you are living alone, take control of your financial situation. Be wary of romantic involvements and the scams that can come with them. Look upon any money you give as a loan. 9. Build your “escape hatch” Have a strategy outlining what you will do if all goes wrong but remember you will always qualify for the age pension and it will last as long as you do. 10. Enjoy your retirement Make good decisions to maximise your income and then get on with enjoying life. Do not spending all day counting your pennies. Patricia Howard is the author of The No-Regrets Guide to Retirement: how to live well, invest wisely and make your money last. Visit patriciahoward.com.au

6. Slide into retirement Few people just stop working at age 65. Find a new mojo and slide your way into retirement. Find a side hustle, volunteer or turn a hobby into a business. You just need to find your groove.

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Sunshine Coast

28/07/2021 2:40:40 PM

READER’S STORY

New Store Open

The Verdict A short story by Ces Hartzenberg

he courtroom was packed. The accused, Raine Crawford, a private investigator, had been accused of murdering an associate. He had been heard to threaten to kill the man, who had then disappeared. A subsequent police investigation had apparently established sufficient evidence of foul play. It led to Raine Crawford bring arrested and charged with his murder, even though a body had never been found. The trial had lasted three weeks. The jury had retired to consider its verdict and, after just two days of deliberation, announced that it had reached a unanimous decision. The court had reconvened. “The accused will please stand,” the judge intoned. Raine Crawford rose to his feet and stood impassively waiting. “Foreman of the jury, you have reached a verdict?” “We have, Your Honour,” the man responded. “Will you please read out the jury’s verdict?” she asked. “Yes, Your Honour. We the jury find the defendant Raine Crawford guilty of the charge of premeditated murder.” There were murmurs in the courtroom. Raine caught the eye of Robert Salinger, the prosecutor, who gave him a triumphant smirk. Unexpectedly, he smiled back at him. Then, he turned to the judge, and asked deferentially, “May I say something, your honour?” Judge Caroline Spano looked at him for a moment, then said, “That would be highly unusual, Mr Crawford, but yes. Keep it short, please.” “Thank you, your honour. I will keep it short. The prosecution case was completely manufactured by corrupt forces within the police department, with the collusion of Mr Salinger, the prosecutor ...” The judge interrupted, “These are serious charges Mr Crawford. Why didn’t you raise these before in your defence?” “I do apologise, Your Honour, but I needed to see how far the prosecutor was prepared to go. No body was ever found, the whole case was entirely

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circumstantial as you know, but they were skilful enough to manipulate the evidence, to convince the jury, and they’ve done this before.” “This is outrageous!” Salinger was on his feet. “You’ve been found guilty, you’re making baseless accusations, you don’t have any right to, and you have no evidence! Your Honour, he has no right!” he appealed to the judge. She opened her mouth, but before she could say anything, Raine said quietly, “I can prove it, Your Honour.” He looked at the door of the courtroom, and raised a hand. A young woman got up and walked to the door. She opened it, and a young man walked in. There was a collective gasp from those seated inside. “This is the man I am supposed to have murdered. Perhaps Mr Salinger could explain where all the evidence of the supposed murder he presented in such great detail came from?” Salinger slumped back in his chair, his face pale. There was uproar in the courtroom. The judge banged her gavel and demanded silence. In the quiet, she asked, “Mr Crawford, I am not pleased my court has been used in this way. An explanation please?” “Your Honour,” Raine said earnestly, “I have been investigating similar alleged miscarriages of justice under the prosecutor’s watch. I felt this was the only way to expose the lengths to which the prosecutor was prepared to go.” “I see,” the judge said slowly. “I have much to consider about this, however, I trust the authorities will conduct a thorough investigation into this matter. The verdict is set aside. Mr Crawford, you are immediately released from custody and free to go.” Raine gave the prosecutor a long challenging look, then, amid the uproar, left the courtroom with his defence team. Ces is a senior, a local and a prolific author of short stories. He travelled the world extensively after retiring from a long career as a librarian in Melbourne which has enriched his imagination and produced a diverse collection of stories. Visit cesmotales.com

A Bra For Every Woman Now stocking more brands and the largest size range from AA to K. Great news for the women of thee Sunshine Coast who struggle to find a well - fitting bra. as Our new bigger brighter store has enabled us to expand our range to include sports bras, full figuree and maternity as well as our r. traditional post mastectomy wear. Our goal is expertly fit your bra so you feel amazing in your nd clothes. Visit our new store and ice. experience the Tracey G service.

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WWW.TRACEYG.COM August 2021 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 21

28/07/2021 2:41:07 PM

COMMUNITY NEWS

WELSH GATHER TO OPEN THEIR TIME CAPSULE

BUDERIM PROBUS WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS BUDERIM Mountain Probus Club is a mixed, friendly social club for active retirees. It provides social interaction with activities such as walks, golf, outings, theatre visits and a coffee morning at a

local venue. Quality speakers are a highlight of the monthly meetings which are held on the second floor (lift) overlooking the ocean at Maroochydore Surf Lifesaving Club. Call Evelyn 54771218

WOMEN’S NETWORK FULL OF FUN AND FRIENDS MAROOCHYDORE branch of the Older Women’s Network welcomes visitors and members to its monthly meetings to meet new women, join in social activities and make friends. The next meeting is Monday August 16, 2 pm, at the community room at The Avenue Maroochydore Retirement Village, 32 Baden Powell St. Call Lee 0429 831414 or visit ownqld.org.au

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THE Welsh Society and Friends of the Sunshine Coast will celebrate 28 years of gatherings on the Sunshine Coast with a family picnic to recover a time capsule on Sunday, August 15. The capsule was buried on October 8, 1998, at the Cwm Glas property at Belli, near Eumundi, (pictured) and its contents kept secret. The site is guarded by a stone circle and two Custodians of the Capsule were appointed. Five children who were at the first gathering of the society were appointed Junior Custodians of the Capsule. James and Gwenllian O’Neil founded the Welsh Society and Friends of the Sunshine Coast on March 1, 1993, when 22 adults and five children gathered at The Lions’ Park at Coolum Beach. They introduced themselves, sang the Welsh National Anthem with gusto and enjoyed a picnic. Gatherings have continued with a lunch on St David’s Day on March 1; an annual Cymanfa Ganu celebration of Welsh music, singing, and culture; Christmas lunch in December; and social gatherings for further opportunities to meet like-minded friends. The society welcomes those born in Wales, who have lived in Wales, have

Welsh roots or simply an interest in Wales to celebrate Welsh culture and history. For more details email wssc@ welshsunshinecoast.com or call Evan Jenkins 0428 224 503. Visit welshsunshinecoast.com

Sunshine Coast

28/07/2021 2:42:49 PM

COMMUNITY NEWS

VIEW CLUBS GET TOGETHER WITH A PURPOSE

FAMILY HISTORY GROUP A WINNER

View Clubs raise funds for the Smith Family and the Learning for Life Program in all their activities. Clubs support Learning for Life students on the Susnhien Coast. Visit view.org.au

CALOUNDRA Family History Research Inc. helps members research family history, offering informative guest speaker presentations, eight interest group meetings a month and access to resources such as books, computers and databases at its Caloundra rooms. After the pandemic hit, meetings were moved to online via Zoom and instructions on how to join meetings were prepared and distributed. When needed, members trained many individuals over the phone. Headsets, cameras and microphone were located. There was hardly a session missed while it was being set up. As well as regular meetings, a fortnightly Share, Show, Tell and Chat via Zoom was started so that members feeling isolated could stay in touch. Guest speaker at the Zoom presentation for National Family History Month on August 10, 10.30am, is Shauna

Jeannie Black who assists with raffles, and Sandi O’Brien. MAROOCHYDORE View Club had an interesting July with Walk With A View, a national fundraiser for The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. The Friday luncheon was hosted by Ralph Devlin AM as the speaker, and the theme was a festive Christmas in July. The August luncheon will celebrate the club’s 20th birthday with the theme Black and Bling. Members are encouraged to embrace the bling! Guest speaker will be radio announcer Caroline Hutchinson and there will be raffles, a bring-and-buy table and books on sale. The lunch is held on the fourth Friday of the month at 11am for 11.30am start and guests are always welcome.

GLASSHOUSE Country View Club celebrated its 18th birthday with a party themed Pearls and Tiaras. There was a photo booth where the ladies showed off their bling, lots of fun and games and a great buffet lunch provided by Glasshouse Country RSL. The outing on August 4 will be morning tea at the Mountain Café at Mary Cairncross Reserve at 10am. It will be followed by a walk and lunch on August 18, will be at the Mooloolah Country Club, Valley at 11am for 11.30am start. Guest speaker will be Margaret Elliott. Any women who would like to attend or join the club should call Jill 0417 793 708 or Janet 0448 845 303.

Roz Kuss, Fran Kitto and Valerie Thornton at the recent 2021 Fisher Community Awards where the research group was a finalist in the Senior Community Group of the Year section. Hicks speaking on “Diaries and Letters: Fleshing out the Family History”. She will reveal how letters and diaries can add context to family history even if they are not written by direct ancestors. Visit caloundrafamilyhistory.org.au or phone June 0409 932 229 for more information.

TUNE IN WITH PIANO CLUB

Glenda, Esther and Irini enjoy the 18th birthday celebration.

PIANO Club is a gathering of anyone with an interest in piano or keyboard music, irrespective of ability to play, experience, or music genre. Meetings are on the third Tuesday of each month at the Pelican Waters Bowls Club, 49 Nelson St, Golden Beach, 9.30am-11.45am. The bowls club has allowed the Piano Club to use its piano and facilities at the cost of a $2 coin a person. To access the building, walk along the side of the club and enter the back door at the far end. This is a fun morning when members play to a suggested theme, or just come and listen. Everyone is welcome. Call Gwen 0407 753 491.

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Everything disability under one roof! Sunshine Coast

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August 2021 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 23

28/07/2021 2:44:00 PM

FINANCE

Elder law a specialist job for old school trusted advisors Lawyers for seniors, known as elder lawyers, are trained by life and skills to offer specialised advice covering the full range of legal issues that come up in our later years. DON MACPHERSON explains.

lients of a certain age tend to be “old school” in terms of values. Trust is vital. While cost is, of course, always important, elder law clients tend to look for professionals – doctors, accountants, lawyers – as longer-term trusted advisors to guide them over a number of years. They are less transactional, less focused on changing from supplier to supplier, and

more focused on developing a relationship of trust, integrity, and familiarity. Elder years are no time for mediocre decisions or advice. The internet is not a panacea for knowledge on all the issues that elder clients may encounter. Specialist advice, mindful not only of the law, but also the client needs, is essential. Elder lawyers need to be focussed on the same old school values of their clients

Don Macpherson is an elder law expert at Brisbane Elder Law. Call 1800 961 622 or visit brisbaneelderlaw.com. au

and offer the reliability and comfort of knowing that every phone call is not being billed, every event is not recorded on a time sheet, and that a global, rather than transactional approach is taken to inquiries. The role of the elder lawyer is akin to the traditional GP role – service is offered for a fee, but the relationship is intended, on both sides, to be long term, so billing and advice occurs in that context. Issues faced at this time of life include wills, estate management, retirement village purchases, aged care contracts, granny flats, loan agreements with children, elder abuse and financial coercion, and property sales and transfers. Elder clients are not files, not numbers

– they are people who are entitled to be treated with the dignity and respect accorded those who have built this country and are simply embarking on another part of their life journey. Don Macpherson is an elder law expert at Sunshine Coast Elder Law. Call 1800 961 622 or visit sunshinecoastelderlaw.com.au

SPEND THEIR INHERITANCE – THE KIDS ARE COOL CASH in on the kids’ inheritance and spend up big on retirement plans – that’s the message from new University of South Australia research that reveals older people are keen to spend their well-earned savings. And while it may seem like bad news for the younger generation, the research also confirms that the kids are just fine with this scenario, claiming that no one owes anyone anything. The surprising findings are part of a new study that explores contemporary attitudes towards wealth transfer taxation in Australia and showed that public resistance to inheritance and estate taxes may have declined in the 40 years since they were abolished here. Inheritance is the only major form of income that is untaxed in Australia – a person who works for their income pays tax on it while someone who receives a bequest is not liable for capital gains tax. Social policy expert, Dr Veronica Coram from UniSA’s Australian Alliance for Social Enterprise said the apparent decline in the bequest motive presented a significant opportunity for Australian tax

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reform, and a valuable chance to address social inequalities. “There’s nothing more certain than death and taxes but while people generally assume the combination is notoriously unpopular, our research suggests otherwise,” she said. “We talked to young adults and senior Australians and two-thirds thought Australia should consider reintroducing taxes on estates worth more than $3million, while only 1 in 10 were definitely opposed.” She said inheritances generally went to people who were already well-off and didn’t need them. “The Australian government needs to find ways to raise revenue to support increased spending demands generated by Covid, an ageing population, pressure on health systems and increasing environmental disasters,” Dr Coram said. “Reintroducing inheritance or estate taxation is a way of increasing government revenue, while reducing a key driver of inequality at the same time.” She said the findings reflected changes to social norms in Australia.

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28/07/2021 2:44:28 PM

TECHNOLOGY

And now … it’s time for another update Every time we turn around there seems to be another computer update. NATHAN WELLINGTON looks at the features and improvements in the new Windows 11 and what it means for you.

hether it’s a security update, a program update or another Windows update, there is always something happening, but did you know that Windows 10 has now been around for six years? Time does fly! Earlier this year Microsoft announced its new operating system Windows 11, so what does this mean for you? Microsoft has not yet given a release date for the update, but the industry is expecting to see it in around September or October to coincide with shipping new computers with the Windows 11 platform. Upgrades to Windows 11 from Windows 10 will remain optional. Don’t worry though, Windows 10 will be around and supported until 2025 so there is no rush. There are minimum requirements for the operating system and for the techsavvy readers, here’s a list: • A modern 1Ghz 64-bit dual-core processor • 4GB RAM • 64GB drive • 9-inch display • 1366x768 resolution

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• UEFI, Secure Boot & TPM 2.0 compatible • DirectX 12 compatible graphics / WWDM 2.x Windows has had its share of hit and miss operating systems. We all remember Windows 8 that was touted as a revolution but fell completely flat. Windows 10 was launched to get us back to some semblance of familiarity and Windows 11 has been designed to make it even easier to use, so we are not thrown into a tailspin learning to use it. Some of the new features don’t require an IT degree to understand, starting with its screen display, or User Interface as they like to call it. With a cleaner look, Microsoft has built a new Start menu and Taskbar experience, now centred by default. Pinned and running apps in the Taskbar are also centred, and there are many new subtle animations when clicking and moving things around. There is a Snap Navigator that lets you easily customise the layout of your menu with apps you use regularly. Gone are live tiles, and in their place is a grid of app icons that can be rearranged. There’s also a new Chat app built into

the Taskbar which lets you share files, text, and video with friends or family through Microsoft Teams. Microsoft is integrating Teams into Windows 11 in other ways, such as with the ability to share an app window into a Teams call directly from the Taskbar. There’s also a new lock screen, and File Explorer interface that is sleek and clean. A new “Widgets” panel houses features such as to do lists, calendar, photos, and a news feed. If you have a Windows tablet or touch screen the new touch interface is a lot better with several new gestures to make it easier to use, including enhancing the pen interaction. Microsoft is also building a new app store so that you can easily find new apps to download, including games. Lastly, Microsoft also announced that it will release only one major update a year as opposed to the two it was releasing through Windows 10, which is a welcome relief. If you are running a Windows 10 computer that is compatible, expect a notification on your screen somewhere between September and December to ask

you if you want to upgrade. You have the option to upgrade for free or to stay with Windows 10. In my experience through the launch of Windows Vista, 7, 8 and 10, I generally suggest waiting for a few months before upgrading because this is the time when they find out what works and what doesn’t, as well as which computers are compatible, and which aren’t. Bear in mind there are hundreds of thousands of components within the computer industry made by hundreds of manufacturers and each one would not have been fully tested prior to the Windows 11 launch. I generally err on the side of caution and wait for at least three months so the bugs can be explored and an update released that resolves any issues and therefore, you are more likely to find a stable new operating system to explore. If you’re not a fan of the upgrade, don’t worry, you can continue using Windows 10 for a while yet. Nathan Wellington is a computer whiz who comes to you. Call 1300 682 817 or email info@hometechassist.com.au

August 2021 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 25

28/07/2021 2:45:08 PM

HEALTH

Why magnesium matters Magnesium can relax cramping muscles, aid sleep and calm restless legs, but, writes GARTH GREENWAY it can also do much more than that.

agnesium helps build strong bones, balances excess calcium, and helps alleviate common problems such as muscle pain, migraines, menstrual pain and depression, helps with insomnia and increases energy levels. It also has more medical research and scientific backing than most drugs on the market. “Most doctors are wary of supplements that come with promises and miracle stories,” writes Dr Jay S. Cohen, author of The Magnesium Solution for High Blood Pressure. “Fortunately, magnesium comes with scientific evidence that dwarfs the evidence presented for many top-selling prescription drugs.” Dr Carolyn Dean, author of 33 health books including The Magnesium Miracle, has researched thousands of Americans and found that calcium levels were several times the recommended amount, leading to a raft of health issues. This imbalance lies in the changes to the food chain. Our soils, farming techniques, lifestyle and eating habits having changed during the past 30 years. The magnesium (ancient sea salts) has been stripped from the soils by constant

use, superphosphate, fertilising and chemical use, leaving most of us magnesium deficient. But the calcium supply keeps growing due to the promotion of the dairy industry over the past 30 years. “This excess calcium then leaches out of the bones and gets into the joints, artery walls and inside the cells where it should not be,” Dr Dean says. Oral forms of magnesium can get lost in the digestive system, with Dr Norm Sheely demonstrating that 60 per cent passes straight through our bodies and is often poorly absorbed. Topically applied magnesium chloride does not, and is fast acting. The skin is the largest organ and magnesium can be absorbed more effectively than if taken orally. Buderim Magnesium House has been specialising in providing strong effective magnesium chloride solutions for more than a decade, with fast-acting magnesium sprays, massage gels, moisturising lotions, bath and footbath flakes and in-house warm magnesium massages. Garth Greenway is at Buderim Magnesium House. Call 5476 5454 or visit rejuvehealth.com.au

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KNOW YOUR SKIN CANCER RISK MELANOMA is among the top five causes of cancer death in Australia, claiming one life every five hours. In fact, Australia leads the world in skin cancer cases, with around 800,000 diagnoses each year yet, 71 per cent have not had the recommended skin cancer check in the past year, and 39 per cent have never had a professional check. “Many Australians don’t understand their risk of skin cancer, including potential deadly melanoma,” says Dr Alvin Prakash at the National Skin Cancer Centres. “Skin cancer can affect anyone, occur anywhere on the body, and show no symptoms until an advanced stage. That is why it is so important to be aware of your own skin cancer risk.” Ninety per cent of those diagnosed with skin cancer are over age 40. The risk is higher for anyone who has ever been severely sunburnt, used a solarium, worked outdoors, or had skin cancer before. Other high-risk groups include people with multiple moles, fair skin or skin that burns easily, or light-coloured hair or eyes. For the earliest skin cancer detection

BLOOD PRESSURE GOES UP FOR WOMEN HIGH blood pressure or hypertension is becoming more prevalent among Australian women, particularly those aged 55 years and over. A normal blood pressure level is less than 120/80 mmHg. Blood pressure varies from person to person and can fluctuate throughout the day based on activities, but consistently having measures above normal may result in a diagnosis of high blood pressure or hypertension. The higher the blood pressure level, the greater the risk of developing other health problems, such heart issues and stroke. As women age, they may be more at risk of developing high blood pressure than men of a similar age. Researchers have observed

ĆȓǾȪ͗ƱźȪƱǀɜ͗ƱźȪ͗ưǀ͗ǾȪʗǾɤǾưȖǀ͗ɰȵ͗ ɰǹǀ͗ȪźȓǀƸ͗ǀʣǀ̵͗ ͗ɤȓǾȪ͗ƱźȪƱǀɜ͗ ƱǹǀƱȓ͗ƱȵʀȖƸ͗ɤźʗǀ͗ʣȵʀɜ͗ȖǾǰǀ̵ 6źȖȖ͗ʀɤ͗ȵɜ͗ưȵȵȓ͗ȵȪȖǾȪǀ͗źɰ͗ ɤȓǾȪƱźȪƱǀɜƱǀȪɰɜǀɤ̵ƱȵȨ̵źʀ ĆȓǾȪ͗ĆʀɜʗǀǾȖȖźȪƱǀ

26 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / August 2021

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Ph: 07 5473 0724 www.kansha.com.au

physiological differences in the cardiovascular systems of women, which include types and levels of hormones involved in regulating blood pressure. Some of the warning signs and symptoms of high blood pressure and hypertension include severe headaches, nosebleed, fatigue or confusion, vision problems, chest pain, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, blood in the urine, and pounding in your neck chest and ears. Lifestyle factors that can help regulate high blood pressure include a diet high in potassium, moving more, controlling weight gain, keeping a lid on alcohol and quitting smoking. Visit: bloomsthechemist.com.au/ blood-pressure-evaluation

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total body photography/mole mapping is recommended for these high-risk groups. Melanoma can also run in the family. If your parent, sibling, or child has had melanoma, your own risk increases by 50 per cent. Men have a 60 per cent greater chance of developing the disease. Experts recommend an annual head-to-toe skin cancer check, as picking up small changes early can significantly improve chances of successful treatment. In fact, 99 per cent of skin cancers are curable if detected and treated early. “Early detection through regular full-body skin cancer checks is the best defence,” says Dr Prakash. “Our mission is to detect skin cancers in the early stages to minimise complex, invasive, and expensive treatments, and ultimately save lives.” Visit skincancercentres.com.au

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Sunshine Coast

28/07/2021 2:46:37 PM

WELLBEING

When you’re tired of feeling tired Many people operate in a constant state of fatigue. Life goes on and eventually weariness becomes the norm. TRUDY KITHER revisits the factors behind fatigue, which too many have learnt to simply put up with.

id you know that 1 in 5 patients complain of fatigue on a daily basis? Of those, only 3 per cent have a diagnosed cause. There are four identifiable factors as to why most people are fatigued most of the time: Adequate Nutrition – the key nutrients which are required to produce energy to maintain mitochondrial function (the powerhouse of every cell in your body) are iron, acetyl L-carnitine, lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10, magnesium and all of the B vitamins. These contribute to keeping the mitochondrial function going. A reduction in these nutrients will inevitably result in a lack of energy production. Thyroid Function – the thyroid runs the body’s metabolic rate and is closely related to energy production. Supporting normal healthy thyroid function is important to maintain optimal health and energy levels. Many factors affect thyroid health and these all need to be checked in the fatigued person. Thyroid hormones require iodine, selenium and zinc for their activation. However, with the right

flora in the small intestine to be inundated with ba” bacteria and contribute to leaky gut and associated symptoms of fatigue. Increased oxidative stress is caused by toxicity in household products, foods consumed and products used on the skin and hair, plus many other external environmental factors that will all affect and reduce cellular energy production. Immune Support – for people experiencing prolonged fatigue, it is important to address the immune function. Chronic or recurring infections can cause fatigue and again, this is possibly due to the inflammatory effects on the mitochondria (cell energy production). Allergies, food intolerances, irritable bowel and other gut problems are all drivers of impaired immune support. With the right balance of nourishing the nervous system, ensuring adequate nutritional support, and supporting a healthy stress response, fatigue can be effectively treated and eliminated from your life. Trudy Kither is a qualified naturopath. Call 0408 900 596 or visit naturestemple.net

balance of nourishing herbs and supplements they will be able to support the health and function of the thyroid. Acetyl L-carnitine and tyrosine will regulate the effects of stress and fatigue on the thyroid’s function. Detoxification – when anyone mentions “detox”, it is common to immediately think coffee, alcohol and drugs. But there are many other external lifestyle and environmental factors that can influence the health of the cells, gut and liver and contribute to symptoms of fatigue. For example, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) causes the

Looking for the right surgeon isn’t rocket science - it’s brain surgery.

TIPS TO STAY ON TOP Take a high quality vitamin B complex along with vitamin B6 (found in wild tuna and salmon, bananas, grass-fed beef, sweet potatoes, turkey, hazelnuts, garlic and cooked spinach). B6 helps to prevent and relieve fatigue and supports a healthy immune system. Vitamin B12 (found in sardines, tuna, raw cheese, cottage cheese, lamb, raw milk, eggs and wild salmon) is required for methylation, which is needed for critical functions – energy production, mood, detoxification, inflammation and nerve function. Magnesium helps fight fatigue and also supports healthy blood sugar levels, nerve functions and blood pressure regulation. Potassium is responsible for electrolyte balance. Foods rich in potassium include avocados, spinach, sweet potatoes, bananas, coconut water, dried apricots and mushrooms. Potassium-deficiency symptoms also include cramps and irritability. A regular bed time, exercise, rest and avoiding stimulants, such as caffeine and alcohol, also go a long way to keeping on top of fatigue.

Sunshine Coast Neurosurgery is the specialist practice of Dr Stephen Byrne, where we apply cutting-edge technology and the latest techniques to deliver world-class healthcare and personalised medicine. Our List of Services Sunshine Coast Neurosurgery have a specialist interest in minimally invasive brain & spine surgery and use their extensive experience to treat many common conditions such as: • Cervical and lumbar degenerative conditions • Brain tumours • Spine tumours • Pituitary tumours • Chiari malformations. All patients receive one-to-one pre-operative counselling and tailored personalised care using the latest techniques. Please contact us - or speak with your GP for a referral - and we look forward to helping you along the road to recovery.

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August 2021 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 27

28/07/2021 3:00:24 PM

WHAT’S ON

Cheryl Harris, Fiona Simpson, Bob Townshend and Tanya Dave at the event launch.

QUEENSLAND BALLET CELEBRATES SENIORS

EXPO HAS SOMETHING JUST FOR YOU THE I Age Well Expo, established in 2017 to empower, connect, inspire and inform the Sunshine Coast’s over 55 community, is coming up. Each year the Expo works closely with the over 55 community to build community engagement and collaborate with businesses to create opportunities to showcase their services. The goal is to challenge social norms that limit growth and hinder potential to live life to the fullest. The intention is to encourage the over 55s to strive to create a community where

people not only age well but thrive. There will be more than 100 exhibitors, entertainment and food stalls. Among the exhibitors will be the Caloundra Family History Research Group which will display a number of research aids and have family history journals as giveaways. A laptop with access to the internet and will be used to demonstrate how to research ancestry. Nambour Showground Thursday, August 5, 9am-3.30pm. Visit iagewell.com.au

GET out and get active with the Queensland Ballet workshops coming up as part of Seniors Month celebrations in October. Movement is a great way to increase improving poise, core strength and stamina while having a lot of fun. The workshops are designed to stimulate participants both physically and mentally. They are suitable for all levels of dance experience, including those who have never considered ballet before. There are three types of ballet workshop available:

Morning sessions: 9am-10am – ballet for seniors 10am-10.30am – morning tea break, 10.30am-11.30am – seniors stretch class Afternoon sessions: 12.30pm-1.30pm – seniors jazz class, 1.30pm-2pm – afternoon tea break, 2pm-3pm – Seniors stretch class.

drums to present Fabulous Songs from the 20th Century. Clark has sung in many settings from duos and small combos to big bands and has headlined in jazz clubs in the UK and Prague while Stroud’s fluid guitar sound has complimented a diverse range of solo artists, duos, combos, and big bands. On August 28, it will showcase eight local up-and-coming high school jazz enthusiasts at the Youth n Jazz bursary. These talented young students will present their two chosen pieces in either vocals or Instrumentals. Rick Best and the Day Trippers will

provide the backing. It’s a fun day to meet the artists of the future and this is reflected in reduced admission prices. Di Clark and D’Nossa Quintet Caloundra Power Boat Club Sunday, August 15, 1pm for 1.30pm. Tickets $25, seniors $22.50, members $20. Bookings recommended.

Venue 114, 114 Sportsmans Parade, Bokarina. Friday, October 15. Tickets $10 a workshop and $15 for a delicious morning or afternoon tea. Bookings call Venue 114 on 5413 1400 or visit venue114.com.au

TWO BIG DATES COMING UP WITH THE JAZZ CLUB THE Sunshine Coast Jazz Club has two big events coming up this month. On August 15, is Di Clark, a powerhouse of the Brisbane jazz scene for more than a decade, and D’Nossa Quintet. Clark and Greg Stroud, as the vocal/ guitar D’Nossa Duo, have a broad repertoire of songs emphasising the Great American Songbook and Latin standards in addition to contemporary songs given a unique jazz and/or Latin flavour. They will be joined by Peter Uppman on trumpet; Jo Hawthorne, keys; John Conley, bass; and Rod Ford,

Youth n Jazz Caloundra Power Boat Club Saturday, August 28, 1.30pm Tickets, family up to 4 $20, adults $10 Bookings sunshinecoastjazzclub.net. au/bookings or Richard 0427 782 960.

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28/07/2021 3:00:56 PM

WHAT’S ON

A CELEBRATION OF SWING

A SPECTACULAR matinee concert of nostalgic music from the greatest big bands of the 1940s presented by 15 Australian musicians and singers is coming up. The Celebration of Swing is a big band concert starring John Morrison’s Swing City. It will take audiences on a musical journey through the history of the American big band swing era in the early 1940s. Musical Director, John Morrison is one of Australia’s leading jazz drummers, band leader and educator. As well as some of Sydney’s top instrumental jazz soloists, two esteemed singers, Gregg Arthur and Jacki Cooper, will be showcased. The program will include the music of Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman and Count Basie. The Events Centre, Caloundra, Sunday, August 22, 3pm. Tickets $79.90 - $84.90. Bookings Call 5491 4240 or visit theeventscentre.com.au

ART EXPO RECOGNISES JOY OF COMMUNITY BUDERIM Craft Cottage is to open an eye-catching exhibition featuring original art from more than 40 painting group members. This highly regarded group will show vibrant oil, watercolour and acrylic paintings and hopes to inspire others to join them at weekly art sessions. The theme this year is “The Joy of Community” with members drawing inspiration from the comfort and support community has provided over the past year. The Cottage has now been established for more than 50 years and president Kay Weber is delighted by the creative talent and effort members continue to put into their work. “The Painting Group has grown to over 50 members, including both experienced creatives and beginners,” she said. “Art Expo will reflect the interests, techniques and varied life experience of this group who exhibit together and share studio space at the Cottage.” Buderim Craft Cottage, 5 Main St, Buderim. Thursday August 12 to Sunday August 15, 9am-4pm. Entry free and all work available for sale. Refreshments available. Visit buderimcraftcottage.com.au or follow on Facebook

CROONING AND SWOONING THE Buderim Male Choir is back to try again after Covid cancelled its July performances. They will be crooning to have you swooning at concerts in Caloundra and Buderim this month. The programs includes songs from the great crooners such as Tom Jones, Cleo Laine, Julie London, Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble and the Great Satchmo. The boys of the BMC will be joined by guest artists Juanita and Henryk Van Wyk at St Mark’s and intrepid music director Mitch Meyer at Caloundra. Caloundra Uniting Church, August 7,

at 2pm and St Mark’s Anglican Church, Buderim, August 28, 2pm. Tickets $20 include afternoon tea at interval

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NIGHTQUARTER August 2021 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 29

28/07/2021 3:02:24 PM

WHAT’S ON Songs from the American Songbook will bring new life to beloved songs from the American songbook. Suttie’s virtuosic scatting is reminiscent of Ella Fitzgerald and Mel Torme and the band’s mastery of their instruments takes the classic songs to greater heights. The band has some of Queensland’s finest jazz musicians with Shannon Marshall on trumpet; Marnix van Bruggen, piano; Owen (OJ) Newcomb, bass; and Paul Hudson, drums. A Coffee Crew van will be on site from 12.30pm and guests are welcome bring food or nibbles. There is a BYO drink licence, but no glass permitted.

AMERICAN SONGBOOK JAZZ THE Jazz and Blues Collective presents Renae Suttie and The New School Jazz Quintet.

Millwell Road Community Centre, 11 Millwell Rd East. Maroochydore Sunday, September 5, doors open 1pm for 1.30pm. Call Graeme 0417 633734.

VOICES AND STRINGS TOGETHER FOR A MASTERPIECE THE Sunshine Coast Choral Society and the Sunshine Coast Chamber Strings come together to present Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas. It is a magnificent example of English Baroque music, with lively dances and passionate aria sections that demonstrate Purcell’s masterful compositional and choral writing skill. Based on a libretto by Nahum Tate, it was first performed in 1689, comprises

three acts and lasts about an hour. Dido and Aeneas contains all the elements for a successful opera including a shipwreck, sorcery, love and lost love and death. Gregson and Weight Memorial Chapel, 159 Wises Road, Buderim. Sunday, August 29, 2pm. Tickets $30, concessions $25, include afternoon tea Bookings Yvonne 0431 550 713

WO R K S H O PS

CALOUNDRA Chorale and Theatre Company presents a pleasant Sunday afternoon of entertainment in September. The talented men’s quartet (pictured with Margaret Humphreys and Yvonne Everard) will be a feature. The CCTC is delighted that after more than a year, it can return with concerts and shows. Musical director Margaret Humphreys and producer Yvonne Everard have come up with a repertoire to soothe the soul and lift the spirits during Covid times. Also coming up is Pop Op, a collection of stirring choruses, poignant love songs and rollicking operetta numbers with a couple of exciting drinking songs thrown in for good measure. A tribute to life, love, and champagne it features selected soloists known for

this show only as the the Caloundra Opera Chorus. Travel to Vienna and Paris, Italy, Egypt, Spain, ancient Greece, and Vietnam with music from four centuries. Sunday afternoon: CCSA Hall Nutley St Caloundra (behind the Event Centre). September 5, 1.15pm for 2pm start. Tickets $10 at the door. Members $5. Pop Op: CCTC Theatre, Piringa St, Wurtulla Wednesday 15, 7.30pm, special preview $23. Fridays 17 and 24 at 7.30pm; Saturdays 18 and 25, Sundays 19 and 26, at 2pm. Tickets $33, concessions $30, members and groups $27. Bookings 0490 329 912. Pre-show wine and cheese available at booking $10.

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30 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / August 2021

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Sunshine Coast

28/07/2021 3:04:08 PM

EXPERTS PROMOTION

INDUSTRY EXPERTS ENTITLEMENTS

LEGAL

XRAY & IMAGING

ORTHOPAEDIC

Having trouble calling Centrelink?

As the purse is emptied, the heart is filled

New reflux test has symptoms covered

Non-operative ways to treat pain

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a digestive disorder that can affect people of all ages, and occurs when acidic stomach juices, food or fluid reverse flows from the stomach into the oesophagus. GERD immediately comes to mind when symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation are mentioned, but it is not often thought of for symptoms such as chronic cough, sore throat, voice hoarseness or recurrent ear infections. X-Ray & Imaging now offers a bulk billed, non-invasive gastroesophageal reflux test. Unlike other diagnostic tests for reflux that are limited to detecting reflux in the oesophagus, this test also detects reflux contamination throughout the head, neck and lungs. Contamination of reflux throughout the head and neck can be the cause of ear and sinusitis infections, sore throat and difficulty swallowing. Reflux can also irritate the airways and be aspirated into the lungs causing chronic cough, recurring chest infections, bronchitis, or pneumonia. If you suffer from any of these symptoms and think you might benefit from the gastroesophageal reflux test, ask your GP for a referral to X-Ray & Imaging.

Before recommending surgery to someone suffering with hip or knee osteoarthritis, I recommend exhausting all non-operative methods of treatment first. These include physiotherapy, weight management, lifestyle modification, medication and, potentially, injection therapy. Visit a physiotherapist for range-ofmotion and strengthening exercises for managing the symptoms of joint pain. Maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle is vitally important. Ask your GP to check your BMI and suggest effective methods of weight loss if necessary. It is important to modify the activities you perform if you suffer from joint pain. Choose low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and cycling. A good medication for joint pain is Panadol Osteo (or equivalent), but always check with your GP before commencing, particularly if you have liver disease. There are also injections available to help treat joint osteoarthritis. These can be discussed at the Sunshine Coast Injection Clinic. Being educated about your condition is important. Consult an orthopaedic surgeon about the best course of treatment for you or attend one of our knee patient education seminars.

DR HANS VAN DER WALL NUCLEAR MEDICINE PHYSICIAN X-RAY AND IMAGING 5436 0888, XRAYIMAGING.COM.AU

DR DAEVYD RODDA SUNSHINE COAST ORTHOPAEDIC GROUP SUNSHINE COAST UNIVERSITY PRIVATE HOSPITAL. SUITE 12, 3 DOHERTY STREET, BIRTINYA. 5493 8038 SCORTHOGROUP.COM.AU

In the last two weeks I have been able to connect with Centrelink only once via the telephone and it felt like I had won the lottery … I know, it’s sad. I have not even tried to call the complaints line because I can imagine it would be the same. What can you do? I would recommend that you write a note with your enquiry etc and upload to your MyGov account. That way it is on record. Your other option is to visit a Centrelink office. They have a new appointment system, but unfortunately you cannot call to make an appointment as the lines are congested. When you visit a Centrelink office you can make an appointment for another day. This minimized the wait time, and my experience is that they are pretty much on time with their appointments OR you can choose to wait (depending on the office) and as usual, take a good book. If you are still frustrated, give us a call and we can talk through your options with you.

NARELLE COOPER DIRECTOR CAPA SERVICES CENTRE FOR AGE PENSION ADMIN SERVICES 07 5354 0144 OR 1300 043 197 ADMIN@CAPASERVICES.COM.AU

Sunshine Coast

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Have you made (or are you intending to make) a gift to a charity in your Will? What if the charity ceases to exist? This issue recently faced the Queensland Supreme Court for determination. Mr Graham died in 2016. His Will gifted half of his sizable estate to the Stroke Association of Queensland (SAQ). Unfortunately, between the date on which Mr Graham died and when the gift was to be paid, the SAQ had ceased to exist. Other ‘stroke’ charities, being the National Stroke Foundation Ltd (NSF), Synapse Australia Ltd (SAL) and the Stroke Recovery Trial Fund (SRTF), were informed of the failed gift and sought a share of the benefit. The Court had a responsibility to give effect to the intentions of Mr Graham and apply the gift to a scheme closest to his intentions. The Court ultimately divided the gift 45 per cent to NSF, 45 per cent to SAL and 10 per cent to SRTF. A carefully drafted clause in your Will can cater for circumstances where a gift to a charity has failed – avoiding the need for costly Court applications.

TRENT WAKERLEY DIRECTOR, KRUGER LAW LEVEL 3, OCEAN CENTRAL, OCEAN STREET, MAROOCHYDORE. 5443 9600 KRUGERLAW.COM.AU

August 2021 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 31

28/07/2021 3:09:52 PM

RETIREMENT LIVING

MOVE TO A COMMUNITY, NOT JUST A HOME

PALM Lake Resort is in the business of building award-winning homes and world-class facilities, but this familyowned Australian company is also in the business of building great communities. Over 50s not only buy a home but also a lifestyle among like-minded neighbours. While sporting pursuits, creative hobbies and social interests have been found to bring Palm Lake Resort homeowners together, so does a great meal

– every new resort country club has a fully-equipped commercial kitchen. Palm Lake Group founder/director Walter Elliott, who has been at the helm of his family company for 44 years, says he loves to see Palm Lake Resort residents enjoying each other’s company – generally around a table of food and wine. Experienced chefs in the impressive kitchens prepare great weekly menus fresh on-site. Each of the newest Palm Lake Resorts also offer a free meal per home per week at one of the weekly resident meal sittings. This provides the perfect excuse for neighbours to come together and catch up over a delicious lunch or dinner with maybe a bubbly beverage or two. Palm Lake Resort Beachmere Bay’s kitchen is overseen by Kay Smoothy who has been with Palm Lakes for eight years. To book an inspection call 13 72 56 or visit palmlakeresort.com.au

SWITCHING PROVIDER IS YOUR RIGHT the care and service provided in the new home does not live up to the advertised or promised expectations. Whatever the reason, it is important to know that you have the right and freedom to switch to another provider. McKenzie Aged Care, with five locations on the Sunshine Coast, provides warm and welcoming homes where people are cared for and cared about. Switching to a McKenzie home is easier than you may think. Help is at hand to assist and guide you through the process of switching to care that better meets your wants and needs. The process is made as smooth and stress-free as possible for everyone involved. McKenzie liaises with the current provider on your behalf, or with you, to ensure both parties efficiently manage the changeover. Call 1300 899 222

MOVING into residential aged care is one of life’s big decisions, affecting not only the person needing the care, but also close family members. More often than not, the decision is discussed by the family and can be a stressful and uncertain time for all. Since the move into aged care is a high-involvement and intensely considered purchase, it can be upsetting if

DESIGNER INCLUSIONS A CUT ABOVE

FIVE SIGNS IT’S TIME TO DOWNSIZE

ONE of the most common remarks made by over 50s considering buying a home at a GemLife resort relates to the quality of the inclusions. From ultra-high ceilings and energyefficient solar panelling to premium kitchen appliances and tapware, prospective homeowners are frequently surprised, delighted and impressed by the quality and breadth of inclusions on offer. GemLife interior design manager Jenn Kyle said that as part of its commitment to quality, GemLife wanted to ensure standard inclusions provided everything buyers could need. “All the details have been thoughtfully considered in order to minimise the necessity for inclusions’ upgrades – something quite common with many other residential builders and adding to homeowners build costs,” Jenn said. “GemLife aims to be market-leading and by listening to the feedback of buyers and residents, we constantly refine and improve our inclusions offering.” Sales manager at GemLife’s

IF YOU have been thinking about downsizing your home, but are unsure if you’re ready to take the plunge, here are five ways to tell it might be time to sell up and move into a more relaxed stage of life. • Your current home’s layout is no longer working: When you bought your home, stairs weren’t a problem and the bath wasn’t a fall waiting to happen. Having the microwave out of reach of little hands was good, but now you struggle to reach it. • Maintenance is overwhelming: Homes are forever needing something repaired, particularly older ones. Now is not the time to be climbing ladders, yet paying someone to do it is expensive. And who wants to spend their weekends cleaning windows and mowing lawns? • Too big: You live in a five-bedroom house, but four are empty. You spend half your time cleaning. Larger homes also cost more to heat and cool. • You want to free up some cash: With the kids grown up and with free time on your hands, perhaps you could go travelling. Selling your home and buying a smaller,

Maroochydore resort Jo Michalowsky said first-time visitors to the resort consistently were blown-away by what they saw. “They love our standard inclusions. For example, all our kitchens come with upmarket Smeg appliances including the microwave, oven, induction cooktop, and Fisher & Paykel dish drawers,” she said. “People also love that we provide the security screens and the window furnishings because that means they can move straight into the resort because everything is already done for them.” Call 1800 910 278 or visit gemlife.com.au

cheaper one can give you some money to do that. • Location: Priorities change over the course of our lives. While it was once important to be close to the school, now you’d rather be near the beach, and closer to family and amenities such as doctors, shopping and the golf course. If you decide it’s time to downsize, start your search by learning more about life in a retirement village. IRT has purpose-built retirement villages in North Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. Call 134 478 or visit irt.org.au/retirement-villages

DO YOU NEED TO DOWNSIZE OR RELOCATE? We are a warm and friendly clearing and relocation service helping Seniors. We will make things easy!

www.colomba.com.au 32 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / August 2021

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- Sunshine Coast -

Call Jeanne on: 0402 126 157 Sunshine Coast

28/07/2021 3:10:30 PM

The WORLD in Your Hands

Travel in Your Time

Outback Queensland – a road trip by design

The Waltzing Matilda Centre in Winton.

triking contemporary architecture is not the first thing that springs to mind when planning a trip to the Queensland Outback, yet a series of tourist attractions has become an unlikely architectural trail that’s making a difference to the economic prosperity of Barcaldine, Longreach and Winton. From a tiny museum that seems to rise from the earth to a whimsical, pink interior that nods to the Sydney Opera House, each project is worth a visit for the architecture alone. Beyond aesthetics, good design is making a significant contribution to the region’s future. Architect Michael Lavery is a director of m3architecture, a Brisbane-based practice that has built a strong relationship with Barcaldine. “‘The Barcaldine Regional Council has demonstrated courage and leadership by investing in design,” he says. Working in collaboration with Brian Hooper Architect, m3architecture was first commissioned to work on Barcaldine’s Tree of Knowledge, the birthplace of the Australian Labor Party. At the same time, the council had purchased the Globe Hotel,

a decrepit pub that was slated for demolition. ‘’While working on the Tree of Knowledge, we saw the potential to encourage passing tourists to spend more time in town,” Michael says. “The architects convinced the council to invest in a master plan and retain the Globe.” Seven years later, the re-imagined Globe Hotel represented Australia at the 2018 Venice Architecture Biennale. The projects have received a string of local and national awards for urban design, architecture and heritage. A lookout designed by m3architecture and Brian Hooper Architect is currently under construction alongside the Globe, and the master plan also includes a future performing arts centre and gallery. The Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Outback Heritage Centre in Longreach was affectionately dubbed the Opera House of the Outback when it opened in 1988, a reference to its distinctive curved form by Feiko Bouman Architect. The museum, which pays homage to Australia’s bush pioneers, had been in slow

IMAGE: CHRISTOPHER FREDERICK JONES

decline. Exhibits and amenity no longer met contemporary standards, and with no master plan, 30-plus years of disjointed works had gradually made the entire operation dysfunctional. The transformative redesign has reinstated the museum as a top-ranking tourist destination. Cheeky references to the Opera House and new, technology-rich exhibits have captivated audiences. Another Longreach design drawcard is the Qantas Founders Museum Airpark Roof. Adjacent to the existing Qantas Museum and 1922 heritage hangar, Airpark Roof by Noel Robinson Architects is a dramatic, 8000sq m floating structure that houses several historic aircraft, including a Boeing 747. Visitors can explore the aircraft up close from viewing platforms. The aircraft and soaring roof provide the canvas for “Luminescent Longreach”, a state-of-the-art light show designed by Buchan that explores aviation history. Last stop Winton, population 945. An hour from Longreach, Winton has two awarded architectural works by national practice COX. The relationship began in 2012 with the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum, a tiny jewel 24km south-east of the town. Sitting atop a remote mesa, the

Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum museum provides an insight into one of the world’s most significant and cohesive dinosaur fossil collections, which local farmer-turned-palaeontologist John Elliot stumbled upon in 1999. It won the State’s top award for public architecture in 2013. Back in town, COX was engaged to re-design the Waltzing Matilda Centre, which burnt down in 2015. The only museum in the world dedicated to a song, it houses an extensive collection of artefacts, memorabilia and collateral related to Banjo Paterson’s 1895 ballad. There is one other regional treasure for the intrepid design tourist. A side trip to Muttaburra – officially Queensland’s geographic centre – reveals Brian Hooper’s Muttaburrasaurus Interpretation Centre, a sculptural insertion into the landscape that tells the story of a dinosaur fossil found near Muttaburra in 1963.

IMAGE: CHRISTOPHER FREDERICK JONES

A series of award-winning architectural projects has turned outback Queensland into an unlikely design destination. PIPPA HURST explores the cultural and heritage trail from Barcaldine through Longreach to Winton.

The Globe Hotel in Barcaldine was saved from the wrecker’s ball and became a showpiece.

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Day Tours - with Pick ups 10 Aug 12 Aug 16 Aug 1 Sept 9 Sept 11 Sept 15 Sep 25 Sept 15 Oct 4 Nov 4 Nov 18 Dec

Brisbane EKKA Sth Stradbroke/Tippler’s Lunch Kenilworth & Lunch Gunabul Homestead Scenic Drive Mt Mee and Birches Lunch Pumicestone Passage/Lunch Sandstone Pt Anthony Warlow QPAC Burnett Region winery & Lunch Riverfire John Williamson in Concert QPAC Elvis, If I can Dream QPAC Helen Reddy Invincible QPAC Spirit of Xmas QPAC

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Extended Tours - Small Groups! 31 Aug 6 Sep 23 Sept 27 Sept 5 Oct 26 Oct 26 Oct 29 Oct 9 Nov 18 Nov 20 Dec 1 Mar

Tangalooma - 3 Days Mt Isa, Richmond, Charters Towers, TSV Toowoomba Carnival Flowers - 3 Days Launceston, Cape Grim, Stanley, Arthur River-7 Days Sydney Vivid - 4 Days Phantom – Sydney Opera House – 3 Days Lady Elliott & Fraser Island Tassie-Bruny & Maria Islands - 7 Days Three Day Mystery Tour Tweed River Cruise & Ballina - 2 Days Christmas Hunter/Hawkesbury Valleys Norfolk Island - 8 Days

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August 2021 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 33

28/07/2021 3:13:38 PM

TRAVEL

GET MOVING AND HIT THE ROAD TO MAKING HOLIDAY MEMORIES

One of the many beauty spots of the Carnarvon Gorge National Park. FROM watching whales off the Fraser coast to stopping to smell the roses in Toowoomba, you don’t have to travel far to feel you are on the road to discovery. Whether it’s a quick getaway for three or four days or a longer seven-day excursion, if you’re ready to get out and about there’s a luxury coach waiting to carry you away. “A spacious, modern air-conditioned luxury coach is the most comfortable and safest way to get out on our highways and by-ways,” says Paul Brockhurst of CT Travel. “Passengers can sit back and enjoy the views without stress; chat to neighbours and socialise rather than

having eyes glued to the road and worrying about where to park.” If your feet are starting to itch, Paul has a range of itineraries coming up to get going. Over seven days from August 26, explore the scenic gem that is the Carnarvon region. After a drive to Roma via Chinchilla, it’s easy cruising around “big sky” country. Retired farmers and graziers lead a tour of the Roma Saleyard, the largest in the southern hemisphere, while another local guide will show off the town. Then it’s off to see Injune before checking in at the Wallaroo Outback

Retreat for four nights. It’s the perfect base for day trips with experienced guides to the Carnarvon Gorge National Park, the Carnarvon Ranges and Arcadia Valley Escape, a 17,000acre cattle station. Boobook Eco Tours local guides lead the way through privately owned and operated coal seam gas fields, showing world class farm and conservation properties to give a real-life insight to how industries coexist with environment. September is Carnival of the Flowers time in Toowoomba. It’s the longestrunning event of its kind in Australia and a cultural feast of local food and produce, entertainment and all things spring. Spend three days from September 17 visiting a multitude of magnificent gardens and watch the Floral Parade from reserved seating. All aboard for Fraser Island for four days from September 6. If you’ve always wanted to see the places that everyone talks about without the stress of driving a 4WD, then this is the chance to catch it all. From Kingfisher Bay Resort, head off to Central Station, Lake McKenzie, 75 Mile Beach, Eli Creek, the Maheno Shipwreck and Eurong. As well as as the guided Beauty Spots Tour, there’s a whale watch adventure cruise to see the humpbacks playing in the sheltered waters off Fraser. A four-day excursion to the Fraser Coast from October 11, includes trips

around Bundaberg and Bargara, as well as a day cruise to Lady Musgrave Island on the Sea Empress. The Hinkler Hall of Aviation, Bundaberg Rum Distillery and the Bundaberg Brewing Company’s “The Barrel” are all on the list. Once you’ve caught the bug, spread your wings in October for a seven-day excursion to Lightning Ridge, the only place in Australia where the prized black opal is found. There are three days to explore the region, including Grawin, Glengarry & Sheepyard Opal fields, as well as time to visit Miles, Roma, St George and other attractions along the way. Next year, it’s a short flight to Norfolk Island for eight days immersing in history, culture and natural beauty, from steep ocean clifftops to convict ruins and the famous Norfolk Pines. This fully escorted tour is a trip overseas without leaving Australian territory. Bookings are now open. “Coach tours are economical,” Paul says. “Fuel prices aren’t your problem and accommodation and most meals are already sorted as part of the package. On top of that, there’s a direct line to the locals to tap into their knowledge of their home.” Full tours details and a list of upcoming tours where you can choose your destination and duration, are on the CT Travel website. Visit cttravel.com.au

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Penny Hegar ty 07 5 4 41 281 4 | 0416 028 787 penny.hegar ty@gmail.com 34 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / August 2021

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Sunshine Coast

28/07/2021 3:14:06 PM

TRAVEL

DREAMING OF ITALY

Cinque Terre WITH international travel still a long way off, Isabella Dusi has decided that the next best thing is to keep the dream alive by sharing her passion for Italian art, history, wine, food and language. She has launched Italy Dreaming to keep everyone connected with their dreams through fortnightly presentations and language conversation mornings. “We cannot go … yet … and it seems so far away, but we can dream,” she says. “Italy Dreaming offers two ways to keep us motivated and to keep our brains ticking over. No matter our age we need to be learning, absorbing and doing, even if we aren’t going anywhere for some time.” Isabella returned to her home in Noosa three years ago after living in Italy for 24 years. She studied art history while living in a grand old stone palazzo in Florence and travelled the length and breadth of the country, learning about the art, sculpture, architecture and archaeology.

She had worked as an interior designer in Noosa in the 1980s, and also ran interior decoration classes. In Italy, she wrote three books about the country and was published by Simon & Schuster UK. “In between studying art history in Florence, I led hundreds of small art, history and lifestyle journeys through Italy,” she says. “Until Covid, I continued to travel twice a year to Italy. Who knows when will get back again.” To get moving, she launched Italy Dreaming, saying if she can’t go to Italy, then she will bring Italy here. “Without things to keep my mind occupied, to keep learning and absorbing, I was tending to isolate, and my mind was stagnating so, I thought, why be isolated and stagnate when there are so many fabulous stories to share.” Join Italian Conversation at Fine Espresso and Spa, 239 Gympie Tce, Noosaville, to chat in everyday Italian with a small group of friends, beginners to advanced, on August 5 and 19, 10.30am. The group for illustrated Italy and Travel Talks is at Noosa Surf Museum, Noosa Lakes Resort, 3 Hilton Tce, Tewantin. Free parking at rear. Buses 626 and 627 stop at Museum door. Topics range from Italian history and politics, Renaissance art and the Sicilian Mafia to how to buy a house in Italy and a guided walk through Florence. Email isabelladusi039@gmail.com

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35.indd 3

Share/Double $2500.00pp / Single $3130.00 September 6-9, 2021 (4 Day Escape)

GIRLS KEEP ON TOURING FOR the past 15 years Judy Polkinghorne has been making travel dreams come true for women from around Australia and NZ. The founder of the locally owned and operated Girls on Tour, Judy has pioneered women-only travel in Australia. “If you’re single, widowed, divorced, married or you just don’t have someone to travel with, Girls On Tour is for you,” she says. “More than 35 per cent of business is return travellers so it’s clear that women love travelling with Girls On Tour.” And with overseas travel out of reach, Judy is exploring Australia with tours for 2022 including the Kimberleys, Uluru, Northern Territory National Parks, a day flight over Antarctica and, for the first time, Cape York. “It’s true to say that my clients are really keen to travel again with my 2022 Cape York trip selling out in only 36 hours

Call for more info

February 2022 Norfolk Island (7 Days) March 2022 O’Reillys Rainforest Retreat (4 Days) Carnarvon Gorge & Wallaroo (7 Days) April / May 2022 Stanthorpe & New England in Autumn (4 Days) OB NSW - The Darling River Run to Broken Hill (15 Days) May / June 2022 Carnarvon Gorge & Wallaroo (7 Days) O’Reillys -Winter Escape (4 Days)

September 17-20, 2021 (3 Day Escape)

August 2022 Lightning Ridge (7 Days)

October 11 - 14, 2021 (4 Day Escape)

September 2022 Nth Qld Savanah Way ( Days) Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers (3 Days)

Share/Double $1300.00pp / Single $1525.00

November 2022 Tasmania (14 Days)

Share/Double $995.00pp / Single $1095.00

Bundaberg – Bargara – Lady Musgrave Isl

Penny’s tours this year have been fully booked. “Group travel is a great way to meet new people and of course everything except the packing is done for you,” she says. “With transport, accommodation, most meals and entry fees included in the cost, there are no hidden extras.” Penny recommends booking early to be sure of a spot.

2022 Tour Program

July 2022 Western Qld Loop inc Birdsville (11 Days)

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers

and 95 per cent of those booking being return clients” Judy said. The “On the Trail of Giants” tour next year will follow the dinosaur trail to Winton to visit Lark Quarry and Age of Dinosaurs and then down to the Eromanga Natural History Museum. Call Judy 0409 057 417, visit girlsontour.com.au or join the Facebook group girlsontouraustralia

BE SAFE AND SEE QUEENSLAND MORE lockdowns and border closures make Queensland the obvious choice for travellers and with so much diversity from the coastline to the Outback, there is plenty to see. “We could travel for five years and still not see it all,” tour leader Penny Hegarty says. “Some tours cover everything, from beaches and rainforest to the west where there’s always a warm country welcome.”

Fraser Island Whale Watch Tour

Share/Double $1530.00pp / Single $1771.00

Girls on Tour at Uluru.

Bookings PHONE (07) 5391 1648 M 0409 278 971 E tours@cttravel.com.au For more detailed itinerary information on any of these tours, please visit our website:

www.cttravel.com.au August 2021 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 35

28/07/2021 3:14:33 PM

BOOK REVIEW

MARY BARBER I found this book quite bleak at first, but the characters grow on you. Young Shuggie Bain pulls you into the story. I wanted things to turn out well for him. His mother is a desperate alcoholic who is always making promises she cannot fulfil. Shuggie is mature beyond his years. He keeps her as safe as he can, often skipping school. This book deals with alcoholism as a disease and the fallout for the family. There are plenty of drinking companions to pull Shuggie’s mother back into the beer and other beverages anytime she tries to break free. Does the book have a happy ending? You will have to read it to find out.

BILL MCCARTHY Major Literary prize winners normally raise a red flag for me. Probably excellent use of language but boring or inscrutable stories. This one is a real downer. A story about an alcoholic mother, a mostly absent and violent philandering husband with two sons, the youngest a boy of uncertain sexuality set in the dystopian slums of Glasgow in the 1980s. The destructive love of the mother for her youngest set against the fierce protective love he has for her is at times moving. Contrary to the reviews on the cover, I did not find it compassionate or miraculous and struggled to finish, skipping long desolate descriptions of the downward spiral of their lives.

TONY HARRINGTON

BOOK review SUZI HIRST Shuggie Bain has been one of the most heartwrenching books I have read in a long while and left me feeling quite depressed. The strength of the writing leaves little to the imagination and puts you very much in the lives of these working class families dealing with addiction, alcoholism, poverty and the day to day struggles of a young child and his love for his alcoholic mother. I was equally sorry for Shuggie and his mother Agnes and the relationship the two of them share is at times heartbreaking. His belief that he could make her better and his constant care for her no matter how drunk, filled me with a deep sadness. Not an easy read.

SHUGGIE BAIN by Douglas Stuart

JOHN KLEINSCHMIDT Shuggie Bain is not an easy read. It is at times a brutal journey into the lives of its flawed characters, struggling to survive the agonies of a Scotland riven by recession and unemployment in the 1980s. Shuggie is growing up surrounded by intolerant men, a mother drowning under the weight of alcohol addiction and everyone desperate for food, love and affection. One critic suggests that “readers need to be in a good headspace before embarking upon the emotional journey that is Shuggie Bain”. It is a depressing book with few fun moments and no fairytale ending. I was frequently tempted to put the book down.

Hugh “Shuggie” Bain is a sweet and lonely boy who spends his 1980s childhood in run-down public housing in Glasgow, Scotland. His mother Agnes walks a wayward path. Married to a philandering taxi-driver husband, Agnes keeps her pride by looking good but under the surface, she finds increasing solace in drink, and drains away each week’s benefits – all the family has to live on. Her older children find their own ways to keep a safe distance from their mother, abandoning Shuggie to care for her. Meanwhile he is struggling to become the normal boy he desperately longs to be. A heartbreaking story of addiction, sexuality and love, Shuggie Bain is an epic portrayal of a workingclass family and winner of the 2020 Booker Prize.

JO BOURKE An unforgettable and astounding novel with autographical shades from the writer’s own family trials. By the first 50 pages the bombardment of lechery, bullying and alcoholism all under the dark depressing Glasgow weather had me moving fast to put the book aside and sit outside to drink in our Aussie’s sun’s warmth and clear blue skies. Not for long though, as the talent of the writer called me back to his skilful development of the story and an insight into Glaswegian life at that time. The main characters will stay vividly in my memory for a long time. Yes, it is a bleak story and won’t be everyone’s cup of tea. Very little joy or hope in this story, rather just resignation that “it is what it is” – and luring the reader into the same conclusion of pessimism. Strongly recommended for those who are game enough to read it (given the reviews) and are prepared to have other books pale into mediocrity afterwards.

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This is the story of Shuggie “he no right” Bain growing up in Glasgow as a young gay boy in a depressingly immersive environment of poverty, machoism, domestic violence and skid row alcoholism. Set during Margaret Thatcher’s prime ministership, the economic gains of the 1980s came at great social cost to the people of Clydeside. Stuart’s childhood’s experience, knowledge and insightful descriptions are nothing short of brilliant. For work and recreation I visited the Glasgow Royal Infirmary ED several times during the 1980s where the ED was treating up to half dozen stab wounds to the heart each night. Alcoholism and violence prevailed. The adjacent building where Joseph Lister did his work on surgical disinfection had to be closed down because it was so filthy. This tale reignited my memories of a dirty, dark and depressingly grey city. Shuggie’s love for his alcoholic mother is the only light in this mire of human misery and tragedy. 8/10

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

1 6 7 3 9 8 4 5 2

8 3 2 5 6 4 7 1 9

9 5 4 7 1 2 6 3 8

4 8 6 2 3 5 9 7 1

SUDOKU (EASY)

D U E B I I T H S E

H E E L S A D T N T I N E G T W A R I N A B O R O O N E D U S T H A I C C S S A K A U D N P L E A D E M I R O Y E D

5 7 9 4 8 1 2 6 3

3 2 1 9 7 6 8 4 5

2 4 3 8 5 7 1 9 6

6 9 8 1 4 3 5 2 7

7 1 5 6 2 9 3 8 4

5 8 7 6 2 9 3 1 4

6 1 9 8 4 3 2 5 7

CODEWORD ZW S U I L H E K R D J N 2

4 5 1 2 3 6 9 7 8

7 9 6 4 1 8 5 2 3

8 3 2 9 5 7 1 4 6

9 6 5 1 8 4 7 3 2

3 2 4 7 9 5 6 8 1

1 7 8 3 6 2 4 9 5

Secret message: Australian wonders

9-LETTER WORD

C V G B Y T X F QA OM P

2 4 3 5 7 1 8 6 9

WORDFIND

SUDOKU (MEDIUM)

M P L I N G S I E E A S O N A R G E R D R A M E U S U A L A N L D A M D R A G A F T A R N A T E I R C A G E M O U O F M E L B L U E D E R L S D E S T

WORD STEP SPOTS, SHOTS, SHOWS, CHOWS, CHEWS, CHEWY

acne, acre, afire, cafe, cairn, cane, canine, cannier, care, crane, earn, erica, face, facer, fain, fair, fancier, farce, fare, fear, feria, fiance, finance, FINANCIER, franc, inane, infra, nacre, near, niacin, race, rain, rani

1. True or false: “Enervate” means to give someone lots of energy. 2. Approximately how long is NSW’s border with the Northern Territory: 0km, 100km, 450km? 3. In our calendar, how many months have 31 days? 4. On what island is the holiday destination Kuta? 5. On what continent did the Lutheran church originate? 6. How many feet are closest to 183 cm? 7. In what month of 1969 did Neil Armstrong first set foot on the Moon? 8. What colour is the “S” on Superman’s costume? 9. In British commerce, what does VAT stand for? 10. What word of four letters can be a black bird and also mean to brag? 11. How many times has Queensland hosted the Commonwealth games? 12. What breed was the television dog Lassie? 13. After whom was the Russian city Stalingrad named? 14. What food is typically sold in a punnet? 15. Which Australian artist painted The Pioneer in 1904? 16. How many antennae does a wasp normally have? 17. In Scrabble, what is the value of the letter Q? 18. The stripes on the Indian flag are saffron, white and what other colour? 19. What is the correct spelling of the joint disease: arthritis, athritis, arthritus? 20. Australia’s largest casino, The Crown, is in what city?

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS QUICK CROSSWORD

N C O O M P T E R E E

With Quizmaster Allan Blackburn

L I G H T S U P

TRIVIA

There may be other correct answers

1. False – means the opposite, to drain energy; 2. 0km – NSW has no border with NT; 3.Seven; 4. Bali; 5. Europe; 6. Six; 7. July; 8. Red; 9. Value Added Tax; 10. Crow; 11. Twice; 12. Collie, specifically Rough Collie; 13. Stalin; 14. Berries or vegetables; 15. Frederick McCubbin; 16. Two; 17. 10; 18. Green; 19. Arthritis; 20. Melbourne.

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37.indd 3

Kendall Morton Director August 2021 / YOUR TIME MAGAZINE 37

28/07/2021 3:16:02 PM

PUZZLES

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD 1

No. 3001

29 Strips off backing applied to nap (5) 30 Small ancient town, in a notable achievement, is wiped out (9)

11 13 15

17 18

21 22

26 27

ACROSS 1 Get rid of/sling cooked/boiled balls of dough (9) 6 The male golfer of some note follows well (5) 9 Epicene offspring is a wild animal? (5) 10 South American variety of tangerine (9) 11 Tipsy sleuth, with gold ﬁlling, knocked back normal drink (3,5) 12 Damage in a docking facility (6) 14 Recalled processed cheese (4)

No. 049

DOWN

CODEWORD

16 Intimidated doctor, one imprisoned by a greatly admired man (9) 18 Human transporter engaged by native (9) 20 Person from Asia that almost ﬁnished off one (4) 23 Worship a God primarily in dwelling place (6) 24 Lashings of light, creamy dish, also known as Greek food (8) 27 Fish camouﬂaged by a sort of subtle metallic colour (5,4) 28 Pressure applied to conduct petition (5)

1 Foundation ﬁxed up its accounting entries (6) 2 Wrongly interpreted dream is wrongly interpreted (7) 3 Head of Ladbrokes terminates loans (5) 4 Errand a fan distributed over great distances (4,3,3) 5 A great, uplifting story (4) 6 Waste time on a bag misplaced in hut (4,5) 7 New-fangled diet, one dealing with issue (7) 8 Property managers waste developed roads (8) 13 Male escort, dressed quite oddly, delayed people (4-6) 15 Parents, supporting mother, arrange ﬂowers (9) 17 Weak superior starts to smoke (6,2) 19 Turn up outside for a leading entertainer (7) 21 Amusement centre giving up right next to my school (7) 22 Frank and I invested in recorded music (6) 25 Great power wielded by litigant (5) 26 Fellow ran and took off (4)

WORDFIND

The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.

No. 049

COORONG

STRZELECKI

DAINTREE

STURT

DALRYMPLE

WILSONS PROM

GRAMPIANS

YARRA RANGES

KINGLAKE KOSCIUSZKO KURANDA NAMBUNG NULLARBOR

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For more information or enquiries please contact GREG & DONNA ROSS. PH: (07) 4129 7132 OR 0427 297 132 e: rossbuscharters@bigpond.com www.ganddrossbuscharters.com.au 38 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / August 2021

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Sunshine Coast

28/07/2021 3:16:40 PM

PUZZLES

QUICK CROSSWORD

No. 3677

9-LETTER WORD

No. 049

Today’s Aim:

C E

16 words: Good

N I

33 words: Excellent

R I

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”.

1 Plant yielding oil (6) 4 Band (8) 9 Existence (5) 10 Subdue (9) 11 Additional (5) 12 Assessed too highly (9) 13 Fruit (plural) (8) 15 Monty Python member, — Chapman (6) 16 German capital (6) 18 To weave strands through (8)

23 Professors (9) 24 Fossil resin (5) 26 Brazen (9) 27 Baghdad native (5) 28 Developing (8) 29 Frisk (6)

DOWN 1 Corrupt (7) 2 Woman’s garment (5) 3 Nomad (7) 5 Family members (6) 6 Sovereign (7) 7 Enchanted (9)

8 Domain of an earl (7) 10 Layer that absorbs most of the sun’s UV radiation (5) 14 Citrus preserve (9) 16 I don’t know (colloq) (5,2) 17 Titanic sinker (7) 19 Entertainers (5) 20 Assay (7) 21 Twirling religious fanatic (7) 22 Cooing bird (6) 25 British PM, 1997–2007 (5)

Level: Easy

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

SPOTS

_____ _____ _____ _____

2 4 6 9 8 5 5 2 8 6 1 3 8 7 5 8 2 6 3 4 7 2 8 1 5 9

WORD STEP ACROSS

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

24 words: Very good

SUDOKU

Level: Medium

4 7 8 9 3

2 5 8 4 1 7 2 3 5 6 3 1 8 3 8 9 7 5 9 8 3 6

August 2021

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28/07/2021 3:17:57 PM