Australian National Bowling and Lifestyle Vol1 No30

A Trip Down Memory Lane With Barry Crocker

Multi-award- winning Australian entertainer Barry Crocker AM is globally known for his work in film, television, theatre and music. During his extensive and iconic career, which spans six decades, Barry excelled in every facet of the entertainment industry and became a ‘’cultural icon.’’

His commitment to the arts and the Australian Entertainment industry reinforced his popularity as an outstanding and versatile performer, earning him critical acclaim and prestigious awards. His enduring popularity is attributed to his immense talent and magnetic charisma. Barry’s exceptional versatility has solidified his place in global entertainment history and showcased his ability to shine and captivate audiences in various formats across several generations. Included in Barry’s many achievements are, The GOLD LOGIE for Most Popular TV Personality in 1969. 3 Logie Awards for Best Variety show (The Sound of Music)

2 Entertainer of the Year Awards, 4 Mo Awards, 1 Sammy Award, 1 Penguin Award and 30 Gold Records.

In 1987 Barry was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AM) for his services to the performing arts and the community, and in 2013, he was inducted into the Mo Awards Hall of Fame.

Bowling and Lifestyle Magazine had the enormous privilege of interviewing Barry to discuss his phenomenal career.

Q & A WITH BARRY CROCKER

B&L : Congratulations Barry on your iconic career, you have had enormous success in the entertainment industry, and captivated the world with your talent as an actor, television personality, singer, comic and entertainer.

Can you share with our readers, how you have managed to succeed in all facets of the entertainment industry ?

BARRY : My career can only be described as (wild and wonderful) However, I do feel my success at times was due to my ambition for success, coupled with a blend of gratitude. I also acknowledge the opportunities I was given to develop my craft.

B&l : What prompted you to embark on such an uncertain future in the entertainment industry ?

BARRY : I came from a working class family, and there was nothing in my world that would indicate that I would find a career in Showbiz,

I knew I had a voice and I used it to sell papers in the streets of my home town Geelong. Also, my other specialty was impersonating Bing Crosby.

Many years later, I discovered amateur theatre and began being paid for my performances.

Meanwhile, I joined the other kids to be part of ‘Happy Hammonds’ 3GL radio show, where the kids would join him in popular sing-along songs. For this we would receive a dixy-cup Peters ice cream.

During that time, I also serenaded my mother with Bing Crosby impressions.

It would be at the age of 16 that I fell for an ENGLISH girl who belonged to an amateur theatre group called The Geelong Musical Comedy company (GMCC)

I immediately had found my place in the world; I’d come home! I was there (over 3 yrs) and would go from starting in the chorus to playing lead roles in the productions.

This all led to me becoming a professional in 1956 with ‘Variety on Parade’ a touring variety show.

B&L : Did you attend a drama institute to train as an actor in the early days or were you confident your ability as an amateur performer would garner success ?

BARRY : No, but I must credit the teachers at GMCC. I learned so much with these old pro’s who had given up their time to nurture we kids on our way to some future! However, when living in America I spent two years studying under the acclaimed Teacher

‘Lee Srasberg’ (Lee’s most famous students include Marilyn Monroe, Al Pacino, James Dean, Jane Fonda and Marlon Brando)

B&L : You made your acting debut in 1967 on an episode of ‘’Skippy the Bush Kangaroo’’ Can you tell us about the role ?

BARRY : I played the role of Alfred Mortimer a magician in one episode.

The episode was titled ‘’For My Next Trick’’ which aired on the 11th April, 1967.

Actually, my first film appearance came about in a movie called ‘Squeeze a Flower’ starring ‘Walter Chiari’ I played the small part of the head waiter in a restaurant scene.

B&L : Did your career continue to gain momentum after the Skippy role ?

BARRY :No, by that time I was involved in my television shows, live Cabaret, and many other Stage Productions which included SCAPINA, EUREKA and Barry Crockers’ ‘BANJO’ etc.

I was also involved with other theatre productions including the extremely successful Australian production of Topol’s ‘FIDDLER on the ROOF.’

B&L : What happened after completing the Fiddler on the roof production.

BARRY : I returned to cabaret, Television etc. and co-starred with Katy Manning in the play ’EDUCATING RITA, where we travelled across Australia playing all the major cities.

B&L : Are you and Katy still in contact ?

BARRY :Yes, Katy and I are partners, and have known each other for 37 years.

B&L : In the 1970’s you went on to enjoy phenomenal success by starring in the iconic films ‘’The Adventures of Barry McKenzie’’ and the sequel ‘’Barry McKenzie Holds His Own.’’

Can you tell our readers how these two films came about ? Continued on page 14>>

Q & A with Dr Nick Andrew –understanding cataracts

Dr Nick Andrew, MBBS, FRANZCO, PhD

Ophthalmologist and Eye Surgeon

See pages 26 -29

BOWLING & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE are giving one of our lucky readers the opportunity to win a copy of BRYAN BROWN’S new book “THE HIDDEN.’’ To be in the draw, email your entry to bowlsplus1@bigpond.com

Letter from the editor

Bowling & Lifestyle Magazine is celebrating sixteenth year. Welcome to the latest Birthday edition of Bowling & Lifestyle Magazine

The staggering success of Bowling & Lifestyle Magazine after 16 years speaks for itself, We target Lawn Bowling Clubs and Members We are fiercely independent and remarkably passionate about keeping the Lawn Bowls spirit alive.

‘’Bowls Plus Magazine’’ now known as Bowling & Lifestyle Magazine was established in 2010. The initial concept of the magazine was to promote the community aspect of Lawn Bowls, showcase player stories and encourage photos and narratives from Bowling clubs and bowls enthusiasts in Australia.

However, over the years the magazine has evolved into a widely read digital publication that aligns with shifting reader habits. It now reaches a wider audience, far beyond the Lawn Bowls community.

The Magazine continues the tradition of featuring the latest news from ‘’Bowls Australia.’’ However, the introduction of Lifestyle content has allowed the magazine to feature a wide range of lifestyle topics, such as Celebrity interviews, extensive coverage of the Royal Family, current affairs, special giveaways and inspiring Lifestyle stories. In the past, Bowling &Lifestyle Magazine has had the privilege of featuring exclusive interviews with Australian Showbiz Royalty such as Kamahl, Tony Bonner AM, Marcia Hines, John Paul Young, cricket Legend Brett Lee and Rugby League powerhouse Paul Harragon just to name a few. Today, the publication is regarded as iconic and continues to exceed all expectations. A special thankyou to the amazing and talented Barry Crocker who opened his home for a personal interview. Thankyou Barry...

Until next time

Publisher | Rosslyn Wren

Advertising and Editorial inquiries: 0424 672 796 or email to rwren7@bigpond.com

Artwork and Design | Adele Dhillon

Copyright: All material appearing in this magazine is copyright. Reproduction in whole or part is not permitted without permission from the publishers. Notice: To ensure the information in this magazine is accurate, no responsibility is

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BOWLING & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE IS CELEBRATING IT’S

Sixteenth Birthday!

The staggering success of Bowling & Lifestyle Magazine is attributed to it’s founder Rosslyn Wren. Rosslyn’s vision of producing an Online Australia wide Bowling & Lifestyle Magazine, 6 years ago from it’s Hard copy, successor that was produced separately in each state since 2010. Featuring targeted coverage of Lawn Bowls, is a personal triumph for her, as she is fiercely independent and passionate about keeping the Lawn Bowls spirit alive.

“Bowls Plus Magazine’’ now known as Bowling & Lifestyle Magazine was established in 2010. The initial concept of the magazine was to promote the community aspect of Lawn Bowls, showcase player stories and encourage photos and narratives from Bowling clubs and bowls enthusiasts in Australia.

However, over the years the magazine has evolved into a widely read digital publication that aligns with shifting reader habits. It now reaches a wider audience, far beyond the Lawn Bowls community. Australian Stars we have interviewed.

The Magazine continues the tradition of featuring the latest news from ‘’Bowls Australia.’’ However, the introduction of Lifestyle content has allowed the magazine to feature a wide range of lifestyle topics, such as Celebrity interviews, extensive coverage of the Royal Family, current affairs, special giveaways and inspiring Lifestyle stories. In the past, Bowling &Lifestyle Magazine has had the privilege of featuring exclusive interviews with Australian Showbiz Royalty such as Kamahl, Tony Bonner AM, Marcia Hines, John Paul Young, cricket Legend Brett Lee and Rugby League powerhouse Paul Harragon just to name a few. Today, the publication is regarded as iconic and continues to exceed all expectations.

STORY COURTESY OF CATHERINE COLUSSO

MAGICAL MERMAID BEACH ON THE GOLD COAST

Queensland’s jewel in her crown, the Gold Coast is one big playground where winter never really comes and sun-soaked excitement or blissful relaxation abounds for singles, couples and families alike. Come and join us.... Known as the vibrant beachside city renowned for its magnificent beaches and hinterland, world class theme parks, surfing, gourmet dining, renowned shopping outlets and trendy nightlife, the Gold Coast is also one of Queensland’s favourite holiday destinations with locals, interstate visitors and overseas visitors alike

Perched in the midst of this abundance is the welcoming accommodation and benefits of Montana Palms Resort.

Mermaid Beach is a beautiful near empty two-kilometre stretch of sand, bounded by Miami and Nobby's Beach to the south and busy Broadbeach to the north, which offers three pristine swimming areas patrolled by Mermaid Beach Life Saving Club (circa 1945).

A total of seven gold medals will be on offer for the sport of bowls for Glasgow 2026 following the latest developments from the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF).

Mermaid Beach got its name from the cutter HMS Mermaid, which explorer John Oxley sailed aboard in 1823 when he discovered the Brisbane and Tweed Rivers. Mermaid Beach is generally much quieter in contrast to its busy neighbours in Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise. This is likely due to the majority of the beach here being fronted by homes and units. Hedges Avenue runs parallel to the beach and has a dedicated pedestrian and bike lane, providing access to the beach at cross streets.

More than 200 events will be contested across the streamlined competition, the 23rd of its kind, with bowls set to be staged indoors for the first time in the event’s history.

The Mermaid Beach Surf Club is located back from the beach, across from the beachfront Ken Mansbridge Park. The park has tables and shelters. There's an eclectic blend of dining options a few blocks from the beach, particularly along the Gold Coast Highway.

The sport will see the singles and pairs disciplines contested in both the open men’s and women’s schedule,

PLAY OR RELAX

Mermaid Beach accommodation – Tucked among swaying palms and landscaped gardens, Montana Palms offers a number of fully self-contained, self-serviced apartments featuring two bedrooms and two bathrooms plus air conditioning, laundry facilities and free Wi-Fi. External onsite amenities include an extra-large swimming pool, spa and barbecue facilities, and when it’s time to explore, you’ll find the beautiful beach and a host of renowned cafes only a short, flat stroll away.

Excellent apartment with everything you need. There is secure onsite undercover parking with a fantastic pool and spa onsite and only a 2 minute walk to the beach and shops. Only about 15 minutes’ walk to the big Pacific Fair shopping mall and short walking distance to plenty of good restaurants around the place. Just across the street is a mini golf place called (Putt Putt) which was a great family fun. I will recommend 100% Montana Palms for your family stay destination.

DhirajBhartu

We could not fault anything, the swimming pool and bbq facilities And landscapes were very well maintained, and Steve and Julie were always courtesy professional and friendly. We would certainly recommend this resort to holidaymakers or residents. We will certainly be back David6611

Sydney, Australia

Goodwin Partners with Bowls NSW to Champion Active and Social Senior Living

Goodwin Aged Care is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Bowls NSW, joining the organisation as its o cial aged care partner.

A trusted leader in aged care and retirement living in Canberra since 1954, Goodwin has more recently expanded its services across the Greater Capital Region, including the Batemans Bay region.

In Batemans Bay, The Manor o ers Retirement Living and The Glen provides Residential Care, while Goodwin’s Home Care team provides services to clients along the South Coast with a footprint stretching to areas including Batemans Bay, Moruya, Tuross Heads, and Narooma.

productive in their community aligns perfectly with the sport of bowls, which fosters social connection, inclusivity, and lifelong participation.

"Bowls is a perfect t for Goodwin, embodying the active and social spirit we champion. We are excited to support this community, especially through our Home Care services, which are designed to help members stay independent at home and continue playing the game they love.

a partnership that perfectly aligns with shared deep roots in community and dedication to enhancing quality of life for older Australians in the Greater Capital Region and southern New South Wales. Seen here at Goodwin Village Araluen’s bowling green.

For over seventy years, Goodwin has been recognised as a multi-award-winning provider of aged care services, with foundations built on community and care. As part of the partnership, the Goodwin brand will be integrated across a range of Bowls NSW events and activations.

This includes being the Livestream Partner for key state events, such as the Women’s State Carnival and Senior Inter-Region events, providing strong brand exposure to the bowls community.

“

Bowls NSW CEO Tim Rowe welcomed the partnership, stating: "Like bowls, Goodwin has deep roots in community and a long-standing commitment to improving people’s quality of life.

Together, we will create opportunities that highlight the health, social, and inclusive bene ts of our sport, while showcasing Goodwin’s important role in supporting seniors across southeastern NSW and Canberra."

Mr Holmes concludes: “We are pleased to join the Bowls NSW family and look forward to a successful partnership in the year ahead.”

“ Bowls is a perfect t for Goodwin, embodying the active and social spirit we champion.

Bowel Cancer Screening

If you are aged 50 to 74, you may have received a free bowel cancer screening test in the mail every two years as part of the Government’s National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

But what happens after age 74, when you are no longer eligible for the Program, and the screening tests stop arriving?

It’s a question asked of Bowel Cancer Australia’s Helpline frequently and over the past six years the charity has been advocating for the expansion of the recommended screening ages.

In 2023, medical guidelines were updated and there is some good news.

If you are fit, well and healthy and would like to continue with your two-yearly bowel cancer screening beyond 74, you can request to do so when you next visit your GP after discussing the benefits and potential harms.

Your GP can then arrange a bulked billed screening test for you.

Bowel cancer risk increases with age.

In Australia, almost three-quarters of all bowel cancer cases are diagnosed in people over age 60, and the average age of diagnosis is 68.5 years. Bowel cancer screening is for people who do not already have bowel cancer, symptoms of bowel cancer, or any reason to have a high risk of bowel cancer.

If you experience symptoms of bowel cancer, visit your GP for appropriate investigation.

For more bowel cancer information, visit bowelcanceraustralia.org or call 1800 727 336.

“Brett went to the emergency department with stomach pain on September 9, 2020. 10 days later he went home with a colostomy bag and a Stage 4 bowel cancer diagnosis.

He had experienced symptoms for years and had discussed them with his GP but neither of them ever considered cancer. His bowel screen was in the cupboard; untouched. He started chemo, followed by a liver resection. Then more chemo. The cancer spread further.

More surgery and more chemo.

Across four years Brett did 85 chemo sessions, three surgeries, 85 nights camping and travelled to seven different countries. He was always willing to be honest about how overwhelming and scary it was having cancer. He told everyone to do their bowel screening test and be honest with their GP.

Brett spent his last days at home until he grew wings on November 2, 2024" ~ Paula.

Honouring Brett's memory, Paula shares their collective story to help raise much-needed awareness of bowel cancer, and support other people living with or beyond bowel cancer, and their loved ones.

Saving Queensland’s Tough Little Wallabies

High on Queensland’s rocky escarpments lives one of our state’s most endearing - and endangered - native animals: the brush-tailed rock-wallaby. With their soft brown coats, dark tails and bright, intelligent eyes, these little marsupials are built for life among the cliffs and boulders. They can leap more than two metres in a single bound and balance effortlessly on the steepest slopes.

But life for our “brushies” has become increasingly precarious. Over the past century, their numbers have dwindled due to habitat loss, introduced predators, and extreme weather events. Once thriving colonies are now reduced to just a handful of individuals, making each small group vulnerable to extinction.

That’s why Wildlife Queensland has launched the Brushtailed Rock-wallaby Appeal - a statewide effort to protect and rebuild wallaby populations before it’s too late. With support from caring Queenslanders, our field teams are restoring native vegetation, managing threats, and working with landholders to create safe corridors between isolated colonies.

Every dollar raised goes directly towards practical, on-ground conservation. Donations help fund monitoring cameras, habitat restoration and community workshops that empower locals to play a role in protecting these resilient little animals.

For many older Queenslanders, caring for wildlife is about leaving something meaningful behind - ensuring future generations can experience the same natural wonders we grew up with. Supporting this appeal is one way to do just that: a simple act with a lasting legacy.

Queenslanders have always been proud of our wild places. By standing together for the brush-tailed rock-wallaby, we’re helping to preserve that wild heart that beats within our state. To learn more or to make a tax-deductible donation, visit {Every Joey Deserves a Future}. Every contribution, large or small, helps bring the brushies back.

Algae bloom bombshell as ‘neurotoxin’ found on South Australian beaches

A rare species has been identified as the catalyst for toxic reactions across the state zeroed in on a toxic algal culprit behind South Australia’s marine crisis — and it’s a species never previously identified in local waters.

A little-known alga called Karenia cristata is now believed to be the potent toxin behind South Australia’s devastating algal bloom — a marine disaster that’s killed fish, sickened beachgoers, and left experts scrambling for answers.

It’s also the only one of five Karenia species detected in the current bloom known to produce the ‘neurotoxic brevetoxins’. “It’s very serious. As . it impacts the nervous system... [it] is a neurotoxin.”

Foam and dead fish on Christies Beach/O’Sullivan’s Beach South on November 4 Credit: Jo Squirrell/Facebook

The algae’s toxic effects have been felt far beyond the water. Locals living near the coast have reported respiratory issues, and surfers described the air as “like opening a bag of salt and vinegar chips and breathing in heavily.”

The findings warn that K. cristata poses “an emerging international threat with unknown consequences in changing ocean conditions,” calling it “amongst the most destructive and widespread marine ichthyotoxic HABs” — harmful algal blooms that kill fish — ever recorded.

Due to the advanced technology available to the research team, this marks the first time K. cristata has been identified in Australian waters.

Findings include that the cristata prefers cold water, thriving in temperatures between 14°C and 18°C — like conditions during past blooms in South Africa, making South Australia perfect for it to bloom.

This might be good news for beachgoers, as South Australian waters are soon to heat up with the warmer summer weather. Marino Beach in Adelaide’s south was full of foam following storms. Marino Beach in Adelaide’s south was full of foam following storms. Credit: Terry Hewitt/Facebook

The US Centers for Disease Control warns that inhaling toxins from the algae can trigger asthma attacks, bronchitis, and even pneumonia — symptoms that have been widely reported in South Australia since March.

Health advice for the current bloom remains the same, with beachgoers urged to avoid contact with discoloured water.

“The algae does not produce a toxin that is harmful to humans or one that could cause long-term effects. However, exposure can cause skin irritation, eye irritation, respiratory symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath.”

The South Australian Department of Primary Industries (PIRSA) website says these symptoms resolve within several hours after leaving the beach and adjacent area with people advised to “avoid swimming at beaches where there is discoloured water and foam, and to avoid walking on beaches if experiencing symptoms.”

If people are experiencing symptoms outside their homes, SA Health recommends they remain indoors with windows closed until the symptoms pass. If symptoms are more severe or do not resolve, then seek medical advice from a GP and call triple-0 in a medical emergency.

Researchers are now racing to determine whether K. cristata is a recent arrival — possibly introduced via cargo ships— or a long-overlooked resident of Australian seas. Previous blooms in Coffin Bay in 1995 and 2014 were blamed on K. mikimotoi, but scientists now suspect other species may have been involved.

“Our inability to determine whether k. cristata has long been present or not... highlights an urgent need to investigate marine microbial diversity,” the study said.

Dead pufferfish at a algae affected beach in South Australia. Dead pufferfish at a algae affected beach in South Australia. Credit: Andy Burnell/Facebook

As for what triggered the bloom, the government’s official line — blaming the 2023–24 Murray River floods, a marine heatwave (MHW) and coastal upwelling — might be up for a rethink. But the research cautions against jumping to conclusions.

“It is possible that the timing of bloom onset was unrelated to the concurrent MHW... or was triggered by other physicochemical conditions,” the research said.

Retirement Living on the Gold Coast Australia’s Favorite Retirement Destination

The Gold Coast has established itself as one of Australia’s premier retirement destinations, offering a balance of lifestyle, convenience, and community. With its renowned beaches, vibrant shopping precincts, and diverse recreational opportunities, the region provides retirees with an enviable setting to enjoy their next chapter.

Overview of Retirement Villages

Diverse Options: More than 67 retirement villages are located across the Gold Coast, each catering to different preferences — from active, social communities to tranquil, naturefocused retreats.

Amenities: Villages commonly feature onsite managers, salons, wellness programs, and organized community activities, complemented by convenient access to transport and shopping.

Independent Living: Properties are designed to support autonomy while offering the reassurance of a connected, supportive environment.

Real Estate Opportunities

Retirement villages present a wide range of real estate options, including homes and apartments tailored for accessibility and comfort. For those seeking ownership, these properties combine the benefits of independent living with the advantages of community support and shared facilities.

Leading Retirement Villages

The Pavilion North Kirra: A contemporary community with ocean views, a rooftop garden, wellness areas, and a café. Petfriendly and located near shops and public transport, it offers both convenience and lifestyle.

Noyea Riverside Retirement Village: Positioned between the Gold Coast and Brisbane, this village provides independent living in a peaceful, natural setting, ideal for those seeking tranquillity.

Lifestyle and Amenities

Retirement villages across the Gold Coast emphasize:

• Lifestyle Perks: Easy access to beaches, cultural attractions, and recreational activities.

• Community Focus: Clubs, events, and wellness programs designed to foster social engagement.

• Convenience: Onsite services such as transport, salons, and medical support ensure daily needs are met with ease.

Conclusion

The Gold Coast offers retirees a wealth of choice, from vibrant communities filled with activities to serene retreats surrounded by nature. With diverse real estate opportunities and thoughtfully designed amenities, the region provides an ideal environment for those seeking both independence and connection. Prospective residents are encouraged to explore individual village websites or arrange tours to find the community that best aligns with their lifestyle and aspirations.

<<Continued from page 3

BARRY :Barry Humphries and Bruce Beresford initially created the cartoon character of Barry McKenzie for ‘’Private Eye’’ Magazine in 1963. They then developed a plan to take the character of Barry McKenzie to the big screen.

Philip Adams played a crucial role in the endeavour by securing funds from the Australian Film Commission. The film was the first Australian film to surpass one million dollars at the Australian box office.

B&L : How did you react in 1987 after being awarded an AM for your services to the performing arts and community ?

BARRY :I was immensely humbled and delighted and viewed the award as a significant triumph and a career ‘’highlight.’’ My only regret was the fact that my mother and father had passed, I know they would have felt very proud!

B&L : Would you like to share with our readers your most memorable moments during the advancement of your career ?

BARRY : I am very proud of the fact that I was the first to be asked to sing the then new National Anthem at the 1977 AFL Grand Final …………..

At the time I was working in Las Vegas, and Gough Whitlam (then Australian Prime Minister) had requested that I be the first to sing the new Anthem. MGM gave me the weekend off, so I flew in, sang the song and flew back to Vegas on the first flight out. I am also very proud of being asked to compere the first Television Special from the Sydney Opera House months before the ‘Queen’ officially opened it in October 20th 1973.

(You could say I was the first Crash test dummy, to make sure everything was in tip-top shape) Another proud and memorable time for me was the fact that I was part of the team that kick-started the Australian

film industry. For many years the industry lay in the doldrums! No Aussie movie had ever made back a profit and therefore investors were thin on the ground. When the ‘Adventures of Barry McKenzie’ came home, Critics were quick to criticize the movie, and it looked like getting a theatre to screen it, would be almost impossible! But they hadn’t counted on the guile of Philip Adams, Bruce Beresford, Barry Humphries and me. We managed to pull off printable stunts for the Newspapers and Television and a ground swell of fans began to build, people wanted to see this film that everyone was talking about! Philip managed to pull off a deal with a movie house that was only then, showing repeat movies.

On opening night in Melbourne, the ‘ground swell’ grew, stretching two blocks down Swanston street and around the corner. At that first official screening, the audience roared with laughter, and we knew that we’d prove the critics wrong. The film would go on to be the first Australian movie to make, not only a profit, but be the first to break the million-dollar mark. Investors realized that money could be made making ‘AUSSIE’ pictures, and I feel that little movie had kick-started the industry back into gear.

B&L : What is next on the agenda for Barry Crocker ?

BARRY : would like to think that I will keep very busy with work of all various kinds after I reach the age of 90 later this year….I still feel that I have a lot to offer!

INTERVIEW

WITH BARRY CROCKER COURTESY OF CATHERINE COLUSSO

The Rise & Rise Of Katy Manning

Multi-award-winning British actress KATY MANNING has had a long and varied career in show business for 65 years. Her enormous success and career longevity, is the result of Katy’s passion as an artist, and the calibre of work she produces.

She is a stunning combination of beauty, talent and unrelenting positive energy. Throughout her career, she has managed to secure her status as a beloved showbiz icon who continues to fuel public interest globally. She is celebrated for her versatility, and bringing charm and humour to all projects she undertakes, her undeniable connection with her audience, has resulted in a sensational rise to fame.

As a child Katy’s ambition was to be a dancer, unfortunately a severe car accident at the age of sixteen ended her dancing aspirations. Katy spent almost two years in hospital recovering from a broken back, broken legs and severe facial injuries. However after recovering, Katy subsequently trained to be an actress at the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art in London.

Over the years, Manning has hosted television shows, starred in stage productions and voiced numerous audio dramas and animated projects. She has performed in theatres across three nations, from London’s West End to the Sydney Opera House and New York. However, she is best known for her ‘’standout’’ role as Jo Grant in the BBC science fiction series DOCTOR WHO. Katy initially played the role of Jo Grant from 1971 to 1973. However, after leaving Doctor Who, to pursue other acting opportunities, Manning predominantly appeared in stage productions, and reprised her role in the ‘’Doctor Who’’ spin-off (The Sarah Jane Adventures) in 2010.

Manning’s professional career began in the late 1960’s, her first major role was in the UK with the BBC drama ‘’Man at the Top.’’

She is the recipient of numerous awards for her work in theatre, film and animation. This includes Best Supporting Actress at the Melbourne Film Festival for ‘’WHEN DARKNESS FALLS.’’ Katy is still very active and touring, she has captured and maintained the heart of many nations and will continue to do so for many years to come.

STORY COURTESY OF CATHERINE COLUSSO

Norfolk Island YOUR NEXT BOWLS ESCAPE

Swap your local greens for an island adventure - Norfolk Island offers great competition, relaxed vibes, and a holiday atmosphere you won’t forget.

Dreaming of a bowls escape where the welcome is as warm as the weather? Look no further than Norfolk Island, nestled midway between Australia and New Zealand. The Norfolk Island Bowling Club truly lives up to its motto: "there are no strangers in this club, only friends you haven't met."

BOUNTY FOURS BOWLS

FRIENDLY COMPETITION, ISLAND STYLE!

Flights, airport transfers on-island, accommodation, car hire + bonuses

This renowned friendliness draws bowlers of all skill levels to their annual tournaments, ensuring a memorable experience both on and off the greens.

Getting into "Island Mode" is easy here. There are no traffic lights and only three roundabouts, so you can forget about traffic jams! Whether you're with a team or a larger club group, you'll enjoy top-tier play and plenty of socialising, both on and off the greens, as you soak in the island's unique charm!

TAKE YOUR GROUP ANYTIME

PLAY THE GREENS IN A PACIFIC PARADISE

Flights, transfers on-island, car hire, accommodation, green fees + more  BRISBANE • 7 NIGHTS from $ 2 , 995 * pp twin

SYDNEY • 7 NIGHTS from $ 3,045 * pp twin

Making you feel Right at Home

Right at Home is your local, quality, in-home aged care and disability support provider, providing care and support that allows our clients to remain safe and independent in their own homes.

Right at Home have 59 offices in Australia throughout New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, ACT and now also in the Northern Territory.

Right at Home office owners aim to provide their communities with the best in-home care services, when and where you need them.

Right at Home’s mission is ‘to improve the quality of life for those we serve’TM. At Right at Home, our clients, their families, and our caregivers are at the centre of everything we do.

At Right at Home, you can expect exceptional, 24/7 customer service, 365 days a year. We offer free in-home consultations and care planning as well as free support navigating the government-funded Home Care Packages scheme (HCP). We are an Approved HCP Provider for levels 1 to 4 and can offer plan and self-managed support to NDIS participants, as well as care and support for private pay clients. We don’t charge package management fees for government funded clients, meaning you get more hours of care for your budget.

Right at Home understand that care decisions for you and your loved ones are important. We believe in the Right ApproachTM, so we carefully match our carers and support workers to our clients and participants. A personal introduction to your carer or support worker helps to ensure that you feel safe and comfortable prior to the start of your service. Our caregivers are highly trained, screened and insured prior to entering a client’s home. Because every client is different, we adapt our services to suit the client’s specific needs with a custom

care plan. We also offer free supervisory visits to ensure carers are following the Right at Home customised care plan and meeting your expectations.

Planning and organising the right home care services for your loved ones can be a daunting task, so why not let the Right at Home team of highly trained and experienced staff guide you during this time of inevitable change. Chat to our friendly owners to find out how we can support you and your family. Call us on 1300 363 802 to reach your local office or visit us at www.rightathome.com.au

Right at Home is the naming rights partner of the Australian Jackaroos and supports the inclusivity and community connection that the sport of bowls provides. Click here to see the story on Bowls Australia website

Right at Home are leaders in quality homecare and support, delivering services that allow our clients to remain safe and independent in their own homes. Your local Right at Home family is ready to look after yours when you can’t. We have offices throughout QLD, NSW, WA, SA, ACT and Victoria, catering for government funded and private pay clients.

Right at Home are leaders in quality homecare and support, delivering services that allow our clients to remain safe and independent in their own homes. Your local Right at Home family is ready to look after yours when you can't. We have offices throughout QLD, NSW, WA, SA and Victoria, catering for government funded and private pay clients.

- 24/7 On Call & 24/7 Care Service - Flexib le, Reliable & Certified Carers - Supervised, Individual Care Plan

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BLACK MAKES HISTORY WITH SECOND BPL MVP CROWN AS VAN NIEROP AND SHERRIFF MAKE UP BPL22 ALL STAR SQUAD

by Val Febbo

on November 1, 2025

The BPL22 All Star team and Most Valuable Player have been crowned with a familiar face stealing the show as the tournament’s best athlete after an exhilarating count.

In one of the closest races in history, the Sydney Lions’ Nathan Black became the sixth player in tournament history to win multiple MVP awards after polling 47 from a possible 66 votes across the 22 home and away rounds to also make his second All Star squad.

Black edged out six-time MVP winner Aron Sherriff and BPL11 winner Aaron Wilson by just one vote to take the award, with Sherriff claiming the All Star mantle for the fifth time as adjudicated by an independent judging panel.

Joining the pair in the team is the Perth Suns’ Kristina Van Nierop who is awarded her first cap following an exemplary display across the five days in the franchise’s

first run to the finals since BPL12.

The Steamers’ Kevin Anderson would be named as the coach of the team.

Karen Murphy AM was judged as the second ever Grand Final MVP after his stellar performance in the decider.

BPL21 MVP top five votes:

1 – Nathan Black – 47

2= – Aron Sherriff – 46

2= – Aaron Wilson – 46

4= – Alex Marshall – 34

4= – Corey Wedlock – 34

Leading women’s poller

Kristina Van Nierop – 25

Bowls Premier League BPL BPL22

Property-Backed Income:

How Investor-Funded Non-Bank Lenders

Bridge the Development Finance Gap

When you invest in a real-estate credit fund such as Capital Property Funds (CPF), your capital is pooled with that of other investors and deployed as loans to experienced property developers. In effect, the fund acts as a purpose-built non-bank lender: it sources capital from private investors rather than depositors, then lends those funds on secured terms that suit the commercial realities of a development project. For investors, this model can offer a compelling blend of regular income and robust collateral; for developers, it provides the speed, flexibility, and certainty they need to keep projects moving. Below is a closer look—through an investor’s lens—at why developers choose this form of finance and how that choice can translate into strong, propertybacked returns for you.

The development funding gap—an opportunity for private capital

Traditional banks still finance the lion’s share of Australian property development, but regulatory capital rules and risk-weighting requirements have tightened considerably over the past decade. That has left a funding “gap” between the equity developers can contribute and the amount banks are willing to advance. A professionally managed credit fund steps into that gap, providing senior-ranked (and, where appropriate, mezzanine) loans at defined loan-to-value ratios (LVRs). The developer secures the finance they need to progress the project, while investors receive a margin over bank rates in exchange for supplying capital at a critical point in the project lifecycle.

Investor capital working at the top of the security stack

CPF lends primarily by way of first-ranking mortgages. This means the fund sits at the top of the repayment waterfall and has legal control over the property should the borrower default. Where a project benefits from a small mezzanine tranche, CPF will only provide that mezzanine debt when it also controls the senior loan. By holding both positions, the fund preserves decision-making authority and maintains a clear line of sight over all cash flows, drawdowns, and covenants—an additional safeguard for investors that is rarely available when mezzanine and senior debt are split between unrelated financiers.

Why developers favour a fund-backed non-bank lender

successful, as these holding represent ownership in the project.

Developer Priority

Speed & certainty

Site options and construction contracts are time-sensitive.

Fund-Backed Solution

As an investment moves higher in the capital stack, its risk increases accordingly, warranting a higher return to compensate for that risk. This principle, known as "riskadjusted return", states investors should be appropriately rewarded for the level of risk they assume.

Flexible structures

Projects rarely follow a straight line; costs and timelines can shift.

Lean credit committees and direct access to decision-makers allow approval and settlement in days, not months.

By understanding the nuances of the capital stack and risk-adjusted return, investors can be a little more informed navigating Australia’s growing private credit market.

Drawdowns matched to construction milestones; interest capitalisation; tailored covenants that reflect project realities.

Past performance is not indicative of future performance. The distributions and investment returns depend on the performance of the underlying investments. Information contained within this article does not constitute financial advice, nor is it a personal recommendation. Capital Property Funds is not authorised or qualified to provide financial advice or to make an investment recommendation. Information contained within this article is general in nature and has been prepared without regard to the individual objectives, financial situation, or requirements of any person. Prospective investors should seek personal financial and legal advice before deciding to invest.

Whole-of-stack funding

One lender, one set of documents, one monitoring process.

Relationship lending

Developers value partners who understand property, not just spreadsheets.

CPF provides senior (and, if appropriate, mezzanine) debt under unified terms.

Investor Benefit

Minimises “warehoused” capital; interest starts accruing quickly once the loan settles.

Better alignment between loan cash flows and project risk reduces default risk.

Single lender control reduces inter-creditor disputes and preserves recovery options.

CPF’s team includes developers, quantity surveyors, and valuers who speak the same language.

Deep, ongoing due-diligence protects capital and surfaces issues early.

Continued from page 23

Risk controls built into every loan

1. Conservative advance rates – Senior loans are typically capped at 65 % of end-value, giving a substantial equity buffer.

2. Third-party reports – Independent valuations, QS cost-to-complete assessments, and legal due diligence are mandatory.

3. Staged drawdowns – Funds are released only after certified construction milestones, reducing exposure to cost overruns.

4. Regular monitoring – Monthly site inspections and cost-to-complete reports allow swift action if metrics drift.

5. Step-in rights – Should a borrower default, CPF can appoint a receiver or project-manage completion to protect security value.

These protections mean investor returns are driven not by speculative property price growth, but by contracted interest coupons backed by real assets and enforceable security.

Return profile for investors

Because the fund lends where banks are constrained, it can earn an interest margin that is passed through to investors as quarterly distributions. Typical seniorsecured loans currently price in the high single-digit to low double-digit range, depending on project complexity and leverage. Importantly, interest is generally paid monthly in arrears from the loan (or capitalised into controlled drawdowns), so returns are not dependent on presales or the final sale of the property.

For investors, this translates to:

1. Regular, predictable income – ideal for SMSFs, retirement portfolios, or anyone seeking consistent cash flow.

2. Lower volatility than equity markets – loans rank ahead of developer equity and are repaid before profit is realised.

Putting it all together: why it works for both sides

Developers secure agile, relationship-driven capital that lets them seize opportunities, keep programs on schedule, and avoid costly delays.

Investors receive an income stream underpinned by registered mortgages and a hands-on asset-management approach.. Because the fund controls the entire debt stack, there is clarity around decision-making and a single set of recovery levers should they ever be required.

Conclusion

In the current market, well-structured development loans can offer investors an attractive balance of income, security, and diversification—provided they are originated and managed by an experienced lender with full control over the senior position. By investing through a credit fund such as Capital Property Funds, you are not merely lending to a developer; you are participating in a disciplined, property-backed finance business that is designed to protect capital first and deliver strong, consistent returns second. As banks continue to ration development credit, this specialised niche will remain an essential—and rewarding—component of Australia’s property-finance ecosystem.

This overview is provided for general information only and does not constitute personal financial advice. Investors should read the relevant offer documents, seek professional advice and consider their own circumstances before investing.

Dr Nick Andrew, MBBS, FRANZCO, PhD

Ophthalmologist

and Eye Surgeon

Dr Nick Andrew, MBBS, FRANZCO, PhD

Dr Andrew is a Gold Coast ophthalmologist (eye specialist) with international training in complex ophthalmic surgery. He is fortunate to have a relatively unique skillset, being the only ophthalmologist in the entire Asia-Pacific region to have completed the prestigious GAASS Fellowship in Toronto with Dr Ike Ahmed, who is ranked as the most influential ophthalmologist in the world. Dr Andrew has published over 50 scientific articles and is an Associate Professor at Griffith University. He also co-hosts a leading podcast for ophthalmologists.

His special areas of expertise include advanced cataract surgery, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), refractive surgery, correction of previous cataract surgery, pterygium surgery, and repair of iris injuries.

What is a Cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s lens. The lens is located just behind the iris (the coloured part of the eye). It is approximately the size of a Smartie®, and it is responsible for focusing the incoming light onto the retina, which is the ‘camera film’ at the back of the eye.

As your lens becomes cloudy, it obscures the incoming light from reaching your retina. Cataract therefore reduces your quality of vision. Cataract formation is accelerated by UV light, diabetes, short-sightedness, eye trauma, eye inflammation (iritis), certain eye surgeries, and corticosteroid medications.

Cataracts tend to occur after age 60. Cataract formation affects thousands of Australians every year and cataract surgery is one of the most common, and most successful, surgical procedures worldwide.

A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s lens.

As your lens becomes cloudy, it obscures the incoming light from reaching your retina. Cataract therefore reduces your clarity of vision.

Even though cataract is a simple problem to understand, cataracts cause a wide range of different eye symptoms. This is because cataract doesn’t only make the lens cloudy - it also changes the colour of the lens and its focusing power.

Cataract Surgery

Sharpen your vision and reduce your need for glasses. Cataract surgery is Dr Andrew’s core area of work.

Vision Correction

Reduce your need for glasses

Why choose Sight Specialists?

RESULTS

Retinal Diseases

Advanced retinal diagnostics.

Retinal laser and intravitreal eye injections.

Dr Andrew’s approach to eye surgery is incredibly meticulous. His goal is to consistently achieve results at the forefront of what modern technology permits.

PATIENT CARE

We understand that eyecare can be daunting, and we want you to feel at ease. Our friendly team delivers care that is warm, welcoming and personal. Additionally, we provide:

• Easy car parking

• Complimentary hot and cold drinks

• Short appointment waiting times

STATE OF THE ART TECHNOLOGY

Our clinic has the very latest diagnostic equipment.

Micro-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery

Improve your eye pressure and free yourself from glaucoma eyedrops.

Contact our friendly team today.

Pterygium Surgery

Improve the appearance of your eye and restore optimal vision.

Level 2, 95 Nerang St, Southport QLD 4215.

Phone: 07 56475777

Fax: 07 56365549

Email: reception@sightspecialists.com.au

www.sightspecialists.com.au

Opening hours Monday to Friday: 8am – 4.30pm

Q & A with Dr Nick Andrew –understanding cataracts

What is cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy cataract and replacing it with a new, high-definition lens implant. This implant lasts for life and permanently refocuses the person’s vision. In my biased opinion, it is the most elegant procedure in medicine!

I perform cataract surgery as a “walk-in, walk-out” hospital procedure under deep sedation. Most patients are back to normal activities within 48 hours.

Can cataracts grow back?

No, a cataract can never grow back.

Cataract surgery is a once-in-a-lifetime procedure. However, often a cloudy film will form behind the artificial lens implant after several years, which is cured with a simple laser treatment performed in the clinic.

Are there different lens implant options?

Yes, there are now hundreds of different lens brands, models, and powers available. Each lens implant will give different clarity of vision, and different range of vision without glasses. Although lens technology has improved enormously, it’s optically impossible for an artificial lens to be “perfect”, and every product has trade-offs. Therefore, selecting the lens implant that will be best for each patient is complicated, but it’s the critically important step.

It’s actually not the lens implant that dictates someone’s vision, but it’s the combination of their lens implant and their eye working together. For example, the same lens implant in ten different eyes will give ten different results. Therefore, modern cataract surgery needs to be highly customised to each person. The art of cataract surgery is

in measuring the shape of each eye precisely, and then using this information to select the model and power of lens implant that will give that patient the best vision possible.

Do people still need glasses after cataract surgery?

It’s now possible to give someone good vision without any need for glasses, but this outcome depends on the underlying health of their eyes. I tell my patients that they can expect to be free from glasses for most everyday activities, but they will likely still use a light pair of glasses for fine print. There is an unavoidable trade-off between clarity of vision and range of vision, and I find that most patients prefer to use readers occasionally in exchange for seeing the world with higher clarity and vibrancy.

Can cataract surgery be redone?

Yes, it can- and this is actually a special interest of mine. My first goal is to work out what the problem is and what the patient would like to improve about their vision. Usually, the patient received a lens implant that their eye wasn’t suited for. I will then correct this by removing the lens implant they have, and replacing it with a different style of lens.

What sparked your interest in cataract surgery?

Well - it’s beautiful surgery to do, most patients are incredibly happy, and it’s satisfying to continually get better. Achieving the best results from cataract surgery requires a big commitment – a big investment in stateof-the-art technology, a highly consistent surgical technique, and close analysis of your results. Optimising my outcomes has become a professional obsession of mine - I’m now supervising a doctor who is doing their PhD research on this. Together we are improving every aspect of cataract surgery, especially the mathematical techniques for choosing lens implants. I was also fortunate to be selected for prestigious training in Toronto with a very famous eye surgeon, which gave me rare experience in performing revisions of cataract surgery. Seeing unhappy patients, working out what went wrong, and then correcting them, teaches me a lot.

Contact our friendly team today.

Phone: 07 56475777

Fax: 07 56365549

Email: reception@sightspecialists.com.au www.sightspecialists.com.au

WW1 LEGENDARY WAR HERO

JOHN SIMPSON

My last articles told the story of two wonderful Australian War Horses, ‘Bill the Bastard’ and ‘Sandy.’ This story covers another fourlegged animal, and a soldier in WW1. John Simpson Kirkpatrick, along with his brave little donkeys, will be remembered as the first stretcher-bearer on Gallipoli, who transported wounded soldiers to the (first-aid) station at Anzac Cove using several donkeys.

STORY COURTESY OF TONY BONNER AM

John Simpson Kirkpatrick was born in July 1892, in Tyne Dock , Southshields, County Durham to Scottish parents, one of eight children. At 16 he volunteered to join the British Army, as a gunner. Then in 1909 joining the merchant navy. A year later he deserted his ship while at port in Newcastle, NSW Australia.

He then moved around the east coast of Australia, cane cutting in Queensland, then to the coal mining fields in the Illawarra district of NSW. Over the next few years on the lead up to WW1 he worked as a stoker, greaser and steward on coastal shipping. It was obvious to all that John had left political leanings, hoping that a worker’s uprising, a revolution back in England against the

wealthy, the millionaires, Lords and Dukes would put a Labour Party back into power. They say he was a member of the Workers of the World Party, a labour movement. Simpson then enlisted in The Australian Imperial Force, dropping his last name to avoid being detected as a deserter, so he became John Simpson. His reason for this action was a means to return to England. He enlisted as a stretcher bearer, this position only given to the physically fit, strong men. He was now sent to The Swan Barracks in Perth to undertake his training. On completion of this training he, along with the Anzac forces set off to war.

They arrived, landing at Gallipoli on April 25th 1915 Anzac Day. After the initial hell of that landing, several days later, he was bearing a wounded soldier on his shoulders, when he noticed, a

donkey, (not in use as a pack animal) so quickly used this donkey to carry the wounded soldier. Simpson would sing and whistle as bullets whizzed past them. Simpson and his donkey became part of this landscape of war. He now had five donkeys at his disposal, Murphy, Queen Elizabeth, Abdul, Duffy, and Duffy 2. These little hero’s were to suffer from bullets and shrapnel, so not all made these trips of mercy with Simpson also wounded at times. Fellow Australian stretcher bearers who saw or knew of what Simpson was doing also used donkeys to help or save the wounded.

Colonel (later General) Monash noted that Private Simpson and his donkeys had gained the admiration of all the battlefield. These stretcher bearers worked day and night since that faithful landing. Simpson knew no

fear, moving with his little brave friend through bullets and shrapnel, he was applauded for his bravery. The terrain at Anzac Cove was perilous, from the hills then through the hell of Monash and Shrapnel gullies, then onto the front line to retrieve the wounded, soldier and his donkey together, Simpson whistling, courage comes in many guises. On May 19, during the third attack private John Simpson was shot, killed by Turkish machine gun fire. Private Laidlaw of the 2nd field ambulance noted in his diary at the time, that a private from the 1st field ambulance had been shot through the heart, bringing the wounded down on his donkey. This death was witnessed by many, not only the Australian soldiers, but also The Turks, who also noted that this soldier, Private Simpson, had died a soldier.

The service to the wounded did not end with the death of Simpson. A member of the New Zealand Medical Corps, Richard Alexander Henderson had heard of the work and service that Simpson and his donkey had done. Henderson took charge of one of Simpsons donkeys, ‘Murphy’ and continued the service to the wounded soldiers. Many had not heard of Simpson’s death and presumed that Henderson was Simpson. It was only when a battlefield photo was taken that this fact was discovered. Henderson continued Simpson’s work, rescuing the battlefield wounded. Henderson was later to receive The Military Medal. Several paintings of Simpson and his donkey, were in fact the New Zealander Henderson. The fame and service that Private John Simpson had achieved at Gallipoli was in 1916 filmed as a silent film, titled ‘Murphy of Anzac,’ also a radio play in 1938 with the title ‘The Man with the Donkey’ which was popular at the time. In 1965, the 50th anniversary of the Gallipoli Campaign, there was a call for a Victoria Cross to be awarded to Private John Simpson. This was rejected by The Australian Federal Government. In 1967 an Anzac Commemorative Medal was awarded to Gallipoli veterans, and their next of kin. There was also a series of postage stamps featuring Simpson and his Donkey. In 1997 The RSPCA awarded a posthumous Purple Cross for performing acts of bravery towards humans, the little courageous donkeys had also been recognised and awarded.

In 2011 The Australian Government noted that Private John Simpson was one of thirteen servicemen to be examined regarding, ‘unresolved recognition for past acts of military bravery.’ Private John Simpson was survived by his mother and sister who were still living, at the time in County Durnham. Private John Simpson Kirkpatrick was buried in the beach cemetery Gallipoli, Turkey.

A footnote. Like their big brothers, The Light Horsemen in battle in Gallipoli, who could not come home, our courageous little donkeys who were not killed in battle, remained in Turkey. The Turks would have treated them with the same respect accorded to any Australian who fell there in battle.

God bless you little courageous braying rascals.

LEST WE FORGET

TONY BONNER AM

Tony Bonner’s interest in Australian Military History began during the making of the 1987 critically acclaimed film

‘’The Lighthorsemen.’’ The film based on a true story, addresses the horrors of World War 1, and the exceptional calibre of the men who served in the ‘’Light Horse Regiment.’’

QIMR Berghofer 80th Anniversary Gala Dinner

Held at The Royal International Convention Centre (Royal ICC), 600 Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills Queensland

Joined by special guests to mark this iconic celebration, a momentous milestone – the 80th anniversary of QIMR Berghofer. This gala dinner honoured eight decades of ground-breaking medical research, commemorate our history, and provide an insight into the future of QIMR Berghofer. The night as promised was an unforgettable experience, with fine dining, live entertainment, inspiring speeches, and special fundraising opportunities. A big difference to the Army Hut we started in, on 1st November 1945.

QIMR Berghofer: 80 years of transformative medical research

Eighty years ago (on 1 November, 1945), in an abandoned World War Two army hut in Victoria Park/Barrambin in central Brisbane, a revolution in medical science was underway.

Dr Edward Derrick, a visionary from the Queensland Health department, saw the urgent need to combat infectious diseases such as Q fever, scrub typhus, and leptospirosis, which were ravaging northern Australia. His determination led to the founding of the Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR), with just seven scientists at its inception. From this humble beginning, a remarkable legacy began—one that would go on to reshape medicine in Australia and beyond.

From local beginnings to global impact

QIMR Berghofer’s journey is defined by a series of groundbreaking discoveries. The institute was instrumental in identifying Ross River fever, advancing cancer immunotherapy, and unlocking genetic and epigenetic insights into heart disease, mental illness, and melanoma. Today, over a thousand scientists, staff, and students work together at QIMR Berghofer, united by a mission to improve health and wellbeing through impactful research.

Leading the way in mental and brain health

The institute has taken the lead in some of the world’s largest and most comprehensive studies on the genetics of eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and brain volume. Professor Eske Derks’ identification of 30 genome regions associated with OCD is reshaping mental health care, paving the way for earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment, and reducing stigma by revealing the biological roots of the condition.

QIMR Berghofer’s research into the genetics of ADHD and Parkinson’s disease is also revolutionising how these neurodegenerative conditions are understood and managed. The Australian Parkinson’s Genetics Study— now the largest of its kind globally with over 15,000 participants—has enabled the development of digital biomarkers for real-time symptom monitoring, moving the field closer to truly individualised care.

Breakthroughs in cancer research

QIMR Berghofer’s cancer research is changing lives and offering hope for some of the most challenging conditions. Professor Sudha Rao has launched a world-first clinical trial for metastatic triplenegative breast cancer, a particularly aggressive and treatment-resistant form of the disease. In collaboration with Kazia Therapeutics, this study is testing a combination of the brain cancer drug Paxalisib with immunotherapy, giving new hope to patients with limited options.

In the field of childhood brain cancer, Professor Bryan Day and his team have developed a targeted therapy that destroys tumour cells in preclinical modelsoffering promise for children with medulloblastoma, glioblastoma, and diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), some of the most difficult-to-treat brain cancers. Meanwhile, the Consortium of Investigators of Modifiers of BRCA1/2 (CIMBA) Plus consortium, led by QIMR Berghofer’s Professor Georgia ChenevixTrench, is spearheading research into rare breast cancer gene mutations, involving more than 20,000 carriers worldwide. This international effort aims to provide personalised risk assessments, empowering individuals and families to make informed healthcare decisions.

Continued on next page>

Innovations in diagnostics and treatment

QIMR Berghofer’s spirit of innovation extends across multiple fields. At Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Dr Siok Tey has led a clinical trial using in-house CAR T cell therapy, offering a lifeline to 27 blood cancer patients who had exhausted all other treatment options. In eye health, QIMR Berghofer researchers led by Professor Stuart MacGregor have developed genetic tests for glaucoma, macular degeneration, and keratoconus, now available in Australia and the US, enabling earlier detection and intervention.

In heart health, Professor James Hudson’s team is advancing treatments for inflammation-driven heart conditions, bringing new therapies closer to clinical reality for patients with complex cardiac diseases.

Supporting patients and communities

QIMR Berghofer’s commitment to real-world impact is evident in its support for patients and communities. The PRoCESS trial, in partnership with PanKind, recognises the vital role of carers for pancreatic cancer patients, addressing their unique needs alongside those they support. The institute has also partnered with Haemochromatosis Australia to develop the world’s first cloud-based registry for iron-overload conditions, set to revolutionise research and treatment for haemochromatosis.

Through the Queensland Aging and Dementia Study (QADS), QIMR Berghofer is expanding research cohorts and pioneering new diagnostic tools for early detection of dementia, bringing tangible benefits to patients and families.

Powered by philanthropy, partnerships, and passion

QIMR Berghofer’s achievements are fuelled by generous philanthropy, strong partnerships, and a passion for translating scientific discoveries into real treatments. Working closely with global research networks, the institute continues to pioneer world-first innovations and bring cutting-edge solutions to patients.

As QIMR Berghofer celebrates 80 years of groundbreaking research, its unwavering commitment to discovery, sustainability, and impact ensures it will remain at the forefront of health innovation in Australia and around the world for generations to come.

Your legacy

Choosing to leave a Gift in your Will (also known as a bequest) is a deeply personal choice, a decision that takes time and thought, and we are extremely grateful to you for considering us.

By including QIMR Berghofer in your Will you are giving a gift to future generations who will benefit through vital medical research. Your Gift will have an impact now and in the future that is immeasurable.

A Gift in Your Will to QIMR Berghofer –

a Legacy for the

Future

QIMR Berghofer is a world-leading medical research institute, renowned for our efforts in both discovery and real patient outcomes. Celebrating eight decades of delivering ground breaking medical research

Gifts in Wills for medical research are the gifts that keep on giving. The research and knowledge that is achieved because of your generosity will continue, and advances that are made today will have the potential to change the lives of Australians now and generations to come.

YOU WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Leaving a Gift in your Will to QIMR Berghofer is a personal way to make a difference and create a lasting impact for future generations.

QIMR Berghofer has more than 650 researchers working on discovering better treatments and understanding of, Cancer Research, Brain and Mental Health, Infection and inflammation and Population Health in more than 60 specialised laboratories. Gifts of all sizes are important, they are essential to fund the Research and the impact it has nationally and globally.

For more information on leaving a Gift in your Will and a legacy to fund important medical research Visit qimrb.edu.au

Or call the Gifts in Wills team for a friendly and confidential chat. Free Call: 1800 993 000 | Email: giftsinwills@qimr.edu.au

If you have left QIMR Berghofer a Gift in your Will please let us know, we would love to thank you and ensure you receive the latest research news. www.qimrb.edu.au

Queensland & Northern New South Wales Lions Medical

Research Foundation: Backing Breakthroughs for Over 60 Years

The Queensland and Northern New South Wales Lions Medical Research Foundation (LMRF) has been a quiet powerhouse in Australian medical research since 1963. By funding early-career medical researchers, LMRF has helped spark discoveries that have changed lives—including the development of the Gardasil cervical cancer vaccine. We support research in:

• Cancer (ovarian, cervical, and more)

• Diabetes and gestational health

• Mental health and adolescent wellbeing

• Parkinson’s, kidney disease, and beyond

With the help of generous donors, we continue to focus on advancing medical research that improves lives—now and for generations to come. Join us in shaping the future of health. www.lionsmedicalresearchfoundation.org.au

S U P P O R T T O M O R R O W ’ S MEDICAL BREAKTHROUGHS - TODAY

Since 1963, the Queensland & Northern New South Wales Lions Medical Research Foundation (LMRF) has helped launch the careers of brilliant medical researchers From cancer detection to breakthroughs in diabetes and neurology, your support helps us fund research that saves lives

Your donation helps us back the brightest minds in medical science

�� Tax-deductible contributions

�� Community-driven, volunteer-supported

�� Focused on real-world health outcomes

Make a difference today

The Meaning & Origins of Christmas

CHRISTMAS means something different to everyone. For many people Christmas is a time to celebrate with family and friends, decorate Christmas trees, exchange gifts, sing Christmas carols and attend church services. However, for many people it is a time of reflection and sadness, with financial stress, loneliness and family tensions all contributing to the disappointment that often occurs during this time of year, which is focused on joy and togetherness. The Christian population around the globe celebrates Christmas on the 25th December annually. This date is observed to honour the birth of Jesus Christ, who is regarded as the creator and spiritual leader of Christianity. This historic event is still impacting on the world 2,000 years later. Additionally, the day is also regarded as a global cultural holiday in several countries. The first recorded date of celebrating Christmas in Rome, by the Roman Church was on the 25th December in 336D.

Roman Emperor Constantine, also known as ‘’Constantine the Great’’ is attributed as the first Emperor to convert and adopt Christianity as the religion of the empire. Today Christmas celebrations around the world can vary dramatically, this of course is a reflection of different traditions and cultures. In many countries around the world however, there is a widespread view that Christmas has become too commercialized, which can ultimately lead to a diminished understanding of its deeper meaning. However, to most people Christmas means a combination of religious and secular traditions, which include the birth of Christ and spending quality time with family and friends. What started as a Christian festival, has evolved into a cultural celebration which includes gift-giving, Santa Claus Christmas carols and holidays. WISHING EVERYONE A MERRY

CHRISTMAS The Bowling&Lifestyle Team

STORY COURTESY OF CATHERINE COLUSSO

Discover Comfort, Community and Care at Mercy Place Yarrawonga Woods Point

Set on the picturesque shores of Lake Mulwala, Mercy Place Yarrawonga Woods Point offers highquality, personalised, around-the-clock aged care in a warm and welcoming environment.

Operated by Mercy Health, a trusted not-for-profit Catholic provider, the home is guided by the values of compassion, respect and community. People from all backgrounds and faiths (or no faith) are warmly welcomed.

Residents enjoy a vibrant lifestyle program that includes entertainment, social activities and outings, and the popular Intergenerational Program, where children from local schools and kindergartens visit regularly. Both classic and deluxe rooms are available, designed for comfort and long-term residence.

With registered nurses on-site 24/7, a dedicated team of enrolled nurses and care staff, and access to a wide range of services, residents feel supported every step of the way. The home also features beautifully landscaped gardens, a hairdressing salon, private and shared ensuites, and modern in-room amenities.

Whether someone is planning ahead or ready to move now, Mercy Place Yarrawonga Woods Point offers the reassurance of care, connection and comfort.

Exclusive Offer at Mercy Place Yarrawonga Woods Point:

Enjoy 4 weeks of respite care for the price of 2*. This limited-time offer is only available until 31 January 2026

Speak with our friendly staff or call 1300 164 833 to book a tour today.

*Terms and conditions apply. For more information visit www.mercyhealth.com.au/respite

Mercy Place Yarrawonga Woods Point 75-85 Orr Street, Yarrawonga, VIC

MHF’S KOKODA

MIGHTY MISSION

October 2025 saw The Mark Hughes Foundation complete one of its most extraordinary challenges yet — a double crossing of the legendary Kokoda Track.

Led by MHF Founder Mark Hughes, the 25-strong group — including ambassadors Danny Buderus and Bill Peden — took on the 192km track through intense humidity, steep mountain ranges, and dense jungle, retracing the footsteps of our Aussie WWII diggers and

honouring their courage and sacrifice every step of the way.

Over nearly two weeks, the trekkers covered more than 300 kilometres through some of the toughest terrain on earth — climbing the Maguli Range, crossing countless rivers, and holding moving remembrance services at Brigade Hill and Isurava to pay tribute to the bravery of Australian soldiers.

They battled mud, rain, and relentless heat, yet found moments of connection and joy — playing games with local children, sharing stories with villagers, and supporting each other through every climb and descent. >>

<<After an incredible 5½-day push, the team reached Kokoda Village, completing their first crossing at a remarkable pace. But there was little time to rest. With packs restocked and spirits re-centred, they turned around and began the journey all over again.

Halfway through the return leg, the trekkers received a surprise burst of energy when Paul “The Chief” Harragon joined them on the track — a timely morale boost as they prepared for the final, brutal ascents.

After 12 demanding days, the team emerged back at Owers Corner, where their journey had begun, bonded for life by an experience few will ever share.

Before the trek, Mark Hughes said it best: “Kokoda represents mateship, resilience and courage – qualities that perfectly reflect the fight we’re in against brain cancer. Tackling this trek twice, back to back, will test every part of us physically and mentally, but that challenge is nothing compared to what patients and families face every single day.”

Danny Buderus, MHF Ambassador and former NSW Blues and Knights captain, added:

“We’ve taken on plenty of epic challenges over the last decade — Mt Everest, Mt Kilimanjaro, cycling through Vietnam and Cambodia — but Kokoda Back-to-Back was our toughest yet. It demanded resilience and mateship, and that’s exactly what this cause is all about.”

Their monumental effort has already helped raise almost $600,000 through sponsorship and donations — funds that will directly support the MHF Centre for Brain Cancer Research at the University of Newcastle.

These funds will help launch a groundbreaking new clinical trial exploring how effectively a simple blood test can track tumour progression compared to the current gold-standard MRI.

“In the same way that PSA is monitored for prostate cancer, a patient’s blood sample could soon be used to track tumour progression and guide treatment,” explains Professor Mike Fay, MHF Foundation Chair and Director of the MHF Centre.

“This exciting pilot study — developed in collaboration with our colleagues in Queensland — could be a game-changer, particularly for patients in regional and remote areas who face significant barriers to accessing frequent scans.”

OUTDOOR CHINA

15 DAY FULLY GUIDED

Hiking and Cultural Holidays (SP3 & SP4)

June or July Departures from $5300 Fully inclusive of all China Content

Based in the ancient walled city of Songpan, nestled in a valley and surrounded by the foothills and snowcapped mountains. Hiking the pine clad hills, silhouetted against clear Sichuan sky. Explore Tibetan villages, walk amongst Yaks and wild horses. Explore colourfully lit market stalls at the days end or an evening walk to lofty West Gate, high above the small city. This holiday features a series of easily managed day walks and an optional 5 day walk in the mountains camping under unbelievably clear starlit sky.

• PACK FREE HIKING

• NO VISA REQUIRED

• FULLY GUIDED

• AGE NO BARRIER – PROVIDING YOU ARE FIT – OUR AVERAGE AGE IS 64 (many clients have been in early 70”s)

• AVERAGE WALK LENGTH 12K

• INDIVIDUALS OR COUPLES

• BRING YOU SPOUSE or PARTNER FOR PART OF THE HOLIDAY (See details on website)

• MULTIPLE DAY WALKS

• PACK HORSE SUPPORTED – 4 NIGHT CAMPING TRIP

• COMFORTABLE 4 STAR ACCOMMDATION

• SMALL GROUPS

• EXPERIENCE TIBETAN CULTURE & HOSPITALITY

• ANCIENT FORESTS, PRISTINE VALLEYS & WATERFALLS

• SINGLE SUPPLEMENT AVAILABLE Words cannot do justice to the beauty of the location and the friendliness of this multiethnic area of China. Join Ping & I on a hike of a lifetime. Scan the QR code for detailed information from our website.

15 Day “Hiking Holiday Songpan” June 11 to June 25 2026 (SP3) & July 7 to July 21 2026 (SP4)

Contact Paul 0408 918 249 or griggpaul@hotmail.com

NOTE Return Airfares to Chengdu China in June 2026 from as little as $1250

CLUB IN FOCUS: NORTH PERTH BOWLING AND RECREATION CLUB

by Connor Munnings

on November 4, 2025

Boasting 853 members, 95 of which are bowling members, the North Perth Bowling and Recreation Club has a long and rich history that dates back to 1907 when the Club was established.

Like all clubs, the North Perth and Recreation Club struggled during the COVID era, but this created an opportunity with more members of the local community joining as members as they looked to connect and enjoy the facilities on offer. This saw participation in pennants increase dramatically, with many new bowlers taking up the sport over the past six years.

In 2017/18, the Club’s highest Saturday pennant side was Division 4, now they have a team in Division 1 White.

In fact, the increase in the number of players also meant more success on the green, with seven pennant flags collected since 2021/22.

The North Perth Bowling and Recreation Club recently installed a new synthetic green, replacing one of their grass greens and ensuring they can welcome visitors to try bowls all year.

The Club is a popular place within the local community, having proudly branded itself as North Perth’s Favourite Backyard – a place where everyone feels welcome. This welcoming and warm environment is translated to many of the Club’s regular events, including Friday night community nights, which has families stopping in for live music, food trucks, meat pack raffles and barefoot bowls.

The Club has run multiple Jack Attack programs over the last five years, with many pennant players having started out in Jack Attack.

Each year, North Perth Bowling and Recreation Club hosts a community fun day called Bowlapalooza, which attracts more than 300 visitors to the club for barefoot bowls, kid activities, food and live music.

The Club’s biggest event on the calendar, and their proudest achievement, is their Charity Month initiative which sees the Club raising funds for chosen charities.

Each Charity Month culminates with a Charity Fours Bowls Carnival and Sunday Session Family Day.

Since 2020, the Club has raised more than $215,000 for various charities.

Looking ahead, the Club is committed to growing membership and strengthening its role as a central hub for the local community, while also continuing to improve its facilities with plans to potentially expand spectator areas and enhance the overall experience for everyone who visits.

When Only The Best Will Do

Who are CSC Accountants?

CSC Accountants are a well-regarded and trusted accounting firm based on the Gold Coast, delivering exceptional service and expert advice in accounting, taxation and business advisory. We proudly serve a diverse range of industries across Australia, focusing on building long lasting relationships with our clients through quality advice, trust and transparency. Our purpose and core values are the foundation of everything we do. Built on strong family values and principles, we are dedicated to serving individuals and family groups with professional personalised service, integrity and honesty where our clients feel welcomed and not just another number.

We believe the heart and soul of our firm starts with the incredible team who represent who we are. CSC Accountants regards itself as being different from others in prioritising our team’s individual career goals and aspirations by fostering a thriving culture within our workplace where staff love coming into work each day and feel supported through every stage of their career. What truly sets us apart from other accounting firms is our commitment to getting to know you and a genuine care for our clients ensuring they feel supported and valued.

enquiry@cscaccountants.au GIVE US A CALL (07) 5535 5133 www.cscaccontants.com.au

Committed to helping individuals, families, and businesses achieve their financial goals through quality service, trust and transparency. Our priority is to understand our clients unique needs by getting to know you and building long-lasting relationships. cscaccountants.au

“Melania Trump’’

EARLY LIFE & BEYOND

Former model Melania Knauss Trump was born in 1970 in the small town of Sevnica in Slovenia, then part of Yugoslavia. The town is sparsely populated by only 5,000 people, and fast becoming a popular tourist destination since Melania became America’s first lady.

Melania is the first naturalized citizen to become first lady, and the second Catholic first lady after Jacqueline Kennedy. At the age of sixteen, Melania was spotted by fashion photographer Stane Jerko, while she was appearing in a school-sponsored fashion show. Stane Jerko, immediately recognised her potential and promptly arranged a photo shoot in his studio. Melania’s modelling career slowly started gaining momentum, however her breakthrough did not eventuate until 1992 when she entered “Slovenia’s Look of the Year fashion contest.’’ In which she was “runner up.’’

Melania spent the following eight years traveling Europe in search of modelling assignments.

She was now 24 years old, and had already made Paris her primary residence.

In 1995 she met “Metropolitan Models’’ co-owner Paolo Zampolli, who encouraged her to continue modelling despite an unremarkable modelling career thus far. Zampolli was also a friend of her future husband, Donald Trump.

In 1996 Paolo Zampolli sponsored Melania’s immigration to the United States.

She subsequently continued working as a model in Manhattan. In 1998 Zampolli finally introduced her to the real estate developer Donald Trump.

The couple began dating and Trump was instrumental in securing more modelling assignments for her...

MRS DONALD TRUMP

“at last’’

Melania returned the favour by supporting Trump during his 2000 presidential campaign.

Donald Trump and Melania married in 2005.

Their son Barron was born the following year.

TRUMP, who was at the time affiliated with the Democratic Party, dropped out of the 2000 Presential Campaign in February of that year.

He named “internal conflict’’ as the main reason he exited the party. However, he still managed to win the primaries in California and Michigan.

Melania dedicated most of her time to their son Barron during his infancy. Therefore, was unable to join her husband at events.

However, she encouraged Donald to run for president in the 2016 presidential election.

Donald Trump won the 2016 presidential election and was inaugurated in January 2017.

After the inauguration Melania delayed her move to Washington, choosing to move into the White House months after the inauguration.

She spent the majority of her time in New York City and Palm Beach, Florida.

Historical data show that Melania only made very few public appearances during her tenure as first lady. She chose to live in Manhattan, which allowed their son Barron to finish school.

According to reliable sources, she chose to help Donald strategize over the phone, while her stepdaughter Ivanka fulfilled numerous “first lady’s traditional duties.’’

In conclusion, Melania is unlikely to move to Washington full time, however aides insist she would still be present for major events.

“A HIDDEN SYDNEY GEM’’

Story courtesy of Tony Bonner AM

On discovering this hidden gem here in Sydney, the story of its past immediately interested me. I had passed it’s location many times in my travels around Sydney without knowing what lay behind the advertising billboards that kept this historical gem hidden, Mortuary Station. This art deco former railway station had been opened for 150 years as the then transport station facility for the transportation of Sydney siders who had passed away. The bodies were then subsequently taken to the Rookwood Cemetery, some sixteen kilometres to the west of the city. The bodies were carried in specially built

CARRIAGE FOR TRANSPORTING THE BODIES

carriages. There were at this time two other cemetery’s on the outskirts of the city area, one at Newcastle the other at Woronora. Sydney’s Mortuary Station was within a slight distance where today’s Central Railway Station was constructed.

CARRIAGE FOR TRANSPORTING THE BODIES

Around the mid 1840’s the burial cemetery’s in the city area of Sydney were rapidly reaching their capacities. Church leaders of the time were lobbying the NSW Colonial Department (the forerunner of the council) to find another cemetery on the outskirts of the city area as the population was speedily growing. The principal burial cemetery at the time was (mid 1840s) where our Sydney Town Hall now stands, it had been in service since 1792, this cemetery had several names, George St. Burial Ground, Cathedral Close Cemetery and Town Hall Cemetery. This site had been chosen by Governor Phillip and The Reverend Richard Johnson. The site was expanded in 1792, and a Cathedral was also commissioned to be built, St. Andrews rose on the site, and remains there to this day.

The Town Hall Cemetery reached its capacity by 1820, so a new city cemetery was created where our Central Station now stands.

The now closed Town Hall Cemetery became a haven for bad, unruly characters and vandalism abound. Stray dogs, goats and horses became unruly, chaos became the norm. The vandalism to the lead lined coffins buried there created violence amongst the villains. From the now opened graves, the smell became unbearable to residents of the area.

The now Central Station Cemetery very quickly also filled rapidly, outgrowing its perimeters, so several other smaller cemetery’s were opened in the Sydney area to handle this problem.

MORTUARY RAILWAY STATION aka REGENT STREET RAILWAY STATION

It was obvious that a larger and more permanent cemetery was needed, well outside the Sydney perimeter. To service this new cemetery, Rookwood, a railway station was constructed to transport the bodies, and the family who mourned the loss of their loved ones. Mortuary Station was born. This began in 1867 and operated until 1948.

This railway line to Rookwood Cemetery, which was originally called Rookwood Necropolis, was to be built in five junctions for the line, the first at Mortuary Station, then four more to finish at Rookwood Cemetery. The four junctions on the route were to stop and take the bodies and the mourners onto Rookwood. There were two types of ‘hearse carriage’s that were coupled to the rear of the main train that carried the mourners. One of the ‘hearse carriages’ transported twenty bodies, another version transported thirty. The bodies were unloaded at Rookwood station, the mourners would then take their family member or friend to their allocated burial plot. When the various

burials had been completed, the mourners would regather at Rookwood station and return to Sydney.

The Mortuary Station closed in 1938, laying dormant and unused until 1948. The Mortuary Station then became alive again, because of its charm and art deco beauty, it became a venue for weddings and professional photographers used its charm in many advertising magazine and media publications. The vibrant steam train lovers enthusiastically used the station as a start to their trips around NSW, I can imagine the wondrous sound, smell, whooshing steam of an iron Beauty as she pulls slowly out of this Iconic station. To me this is a fascinating part of my city’s history, I hope you have the opportunity, at some time you also become fascinated by this Icon.

Thank you for letting me share.

STORY COURTESY OF TONY BONNER AM

TONY BONNER AM has appeared in an eclectic mix of critically acclaimed films, television shows and live theatre during his phenomenal career. He was nominated for “The Best Actor in a supporting role’’ by the Australian Film Institute in 2003 for the film “LIQUID BRIDGE’’ and also received a “Lifetime Achievement Award’’ from The Australian Screen Industry Network Awards’’ in 2011. Bonner was appointed a “MEMBER OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA’’ (AM) in 2017 for his services to the performing arts as an actor, surf lifesaving and to the community through charitable organisations.

Scandal Continues To Haunt The Royal Family

The British Royal Family have had their share of scandals over the years, with various senior members of the family causing catastrophic damage to the monarchy through carelessness and irresponsible behaviour.

It seems that one of the main scandals impacting the Monarchy at the moment, is the scrutiny of Prince Andrew relating to his past association with the late “convicted sex trafficker’’ Jeffrey Epstein. Unfortunately, the recent release of Virginia Giuffre’s (an alleged victim of Sex trafficking) posthumous memoir has renewed interest in Prince Andrew by providing further detailed accounts of Virginia’s encounters with the Prince and Jeffrey Epstein. Giuffre’s allegations have caused further public embarrassment for the Monarchy and intensified the scrutiny already surrounding the Prince, leading to renewed interest from the public and the media. The memoir has also highlighted the ongoing public discourse relating to Prince Andrew’s role and status, which has included the Prince being stripped of his military titles and honorary positions

in 2022. In addition to this ongoing saga, recent revelations regarding Prince Andrew’s controversial living arrangements at “Royal Lodge, ’’ a sprawling 30-room mansion in Windsor Great Park, he shares with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson. This situation has put enormous pressure on King Charles (who is battling cancer) to distance the Monarchy from Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson. According to multiple sources King Charles is facing increased pressure from the British Government and British Tax-payers to increase pressure on Prince Andrew, (who is now considered a liability) to voluntarily give up the residence.

Unfortunately, Prince Andrew has a 75-year lease on the property and cannot be evicted due to an “cast iron’’ lease agreement with the Crown Estate. However, a formal notice has now been served to voluntarily surrender the lease, and move to alternative private accommodation. It is understood Prince Andrew will now move to a property on the private Sandringham estate in Norfolk, which will be funded by King Charles.

STORY COURTESY OF CATHERINE COLUSSO

Will Sarah Ferguson Survive Her Latest Royal Scandal, or Will Her Royal Redemption Strategy Result In A Royal Nightmare Of Debt & Deceit

Sarah Ferguson (Duchess of York) and former wife of disgraced (senior royal) Prince Andrew, has so far managed to survive numerous scandals, and bounce back from many embarrassing encounters. However, this latest royal scandal involving her association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein could be her biggest challenge yet. Unfortunately, a newly surfaced email to the late Jeffrey Epstein, from the disasterprone Duchess of York, reveals her “heartfelt apology’’ to him after she publicly disowned him in the media.

According to multiple reports, Ferguson’s email allegedly refers to him as a “steadfast, generous and supreme friend’’ despite his conviction for sex offenses. Consequently, and as a result of this email, The Duchess of York may have put an end to her royal rehabilitation strategy. Until now, she had been enjoying a royal comeback under the reign of King Charles III. However, a spokesperson for Ferguson has said the email was sent to Epstein to counter a threat Epstein had made to sue Ferguson for defamation. According

to reports, Ferguson sent the email to Epstein in 2011, just weeks after giving an interview in which Ferguson said she would never contact him again. However, it is believed Ferguson had accepted several million dollars from Epstein to help pay her outrages debts and avoid bankruptcy.

Since the news of Ferguson’s toxic association with Epstein broke, six charities have rushed to dump the Duchess and sever all ties with her.

For decades the Duchess, who seems to have an insatiable appetite for living beyond her means, has been renowned as a foolish money-grabber. It is believed that during that time (2011) Ferguson was facing more than $10 million in debt, which coincided with her acceptance of millions from Epstein.

Only time will tell if Sarah Ferguson’s latest Royal scandal of debt and deceit will contribute to her ultimate downfall, yet again.

STORY COUTESY OF CATHERINE COLUSSO

MORE HISTORY MADE BPL22

by Val Febbo

on November 3, 2025

The recent edition of the Bowls Premier League (BPL) at Club Pine Rivers has seen more history made following one of the most exciting and closely fought editions to date.

Let’s take a look at some of the numbers from a brilliant BPL22.

Six-time Sherriff back at the top of the pecking order Aron Sherriff became the second player in BPL history to win a sixth title after Aaron Teys achieved the feat at BPL20 in 2024. Sherriff added to the five previous titles he won at BPL04-07 and 17 to help the Moama

Steamers to more glory at the tournament.

Sherriff goes clear with his fifth All Star nod

The six-time champion was awarded his fifth All Star cap following another brilliant display for the Steamers, moving one clear at the top of the pecking order.

The 40-year-old becomes the first player to make five All Star squads following his inclusions in the BPL14, 15, 17 and 18 teams.

He was previously equal with Aaron Wilson on four.

Nathan Black, the king of Club Pine Rivers once again

The South Australian became the sixth player in tournament history to win multiple MVP crowns, adding to his memorable BPL20

accolade in 2024.

He joins the likes of Sherriff, Aaron Teys, Ryan Bester, Alex Marshall and fellow South Australian Scott Thulborn as players who have won it more than once, sitting in an elite group for someone that is only 21.

Black has now cemented himself as the current king of Pine Rivers with no signs of slowing down.

Van Nierop caps off stellar event with All Star nod

Kristina Van Nierop became the first player from the Perth Suns to receive an individual accolade at the BPL after being named in her first All Star squad.

Skipping the first sets for the Suns, Van Nierop helped Perth to the best first set record across the entirety of the competition.

Murphy’s greatness continues to show Karen Murphy AM became the first player to play in eight BPL Grand Finals, astonishingly all for the Lions.

Murphy’s recognition as the Grand Final MVP makes her fittingly the first female to receive the award after her sensational opening set in the decider.

Dream debut for Baus

Moama’s Matthew Baus became the eighth player to win the tournament on his debut following the Steamers’ victory.

He joins APL01’s Mark Casey, Kelvin Kerkow and Robbie Wild, APL02’s Alex Marshall MBE and Ryan Bester and BPL10’s Chloe Stewart and Kurt Brown to have achieved the feat.

The Aaron/Aron All Star streak lives on

In a more bizarre stat, the recent All Star team marks the eighth occasion from nine events that a player with the name of Aaron/Aron has made it.

The only time where it has not featured has been BPL16 (Corey Wedlock, Gary

Kelly and Rebecca Van Asch).

Steamers become third team to notch up fourth title

The Moama Steamers joined the Tweed Ospreys and Sydney Lions as the only franchises to clinch four BPL titles.

Moving within one of the overall record once again, the Steamers have cemented their place as one of the greatest franchises in the event’s history.

Steamers

play in 14th finals series

A 14th finals series for the Moama Steamers marked the end of three consecutive misses and extended their gap at the top of the tree to two ahead of both the Moreton Bay Pirates and Lions on 12 each.

Steamers and Lions rivalry goes to new heights Meeting in an unprecedented fourth grand final against each other, the two franchises renewed their rivalry once again with Moama squaring the ledger and two apiece.

The teams also extended their records for most Grand Final appearances to reach eight each, three ahead of Moreton Bay on five.

Suns reach first finals series in 1,706 days

The Perth Suns finally made it back to the finals following a second place finish on the table, the highest in franchise history.

It was the team’s first appearance on Friday night since BPL12 when Ray Pearse, Genevieve Delves and Lee Schraner took the Suns to the elimination final.

While the team is still yet to register a finals victory, it was a big step in the right direction for the Bowls WA franchise.

Most tiebreaks ever at a BPL

Just to prove how tight this tournament was, BPL22 broke the record for the most tiebreaks ever with 72 across the five days, eclipsing BPL21’s 59.

A Day In The Life Of Les Taylor

Aurora Australis in Operation for Thirty Years

By The Maritime Executive

2019-11-18 18:37:11

The Australian Antarctic Division is commemorating the 30th birthday of the Antarctic research vessel Aurora Australis this year. It is also expected to be her last year of service, as she is to be replaced by the Nuyina currently under construction by Damen Shipyards.

Aurora Australis master Gerry O'Doherty says: “We're very fond of the old girl. It will be sad to see it go, but it's the end of an era, and this is the last season of this contract for the ship. Look, it may come back to Antarctica in a different role, who knows. But certainly the role that this ship performs now will be superseded by the new ship Nuyina.”

Aurora Australis is named after the southern hemisphere atmospheric phenomenon, the aurora australis.

Designed as a multi-purpose research and resupply ship, she was built by Carrington Slipways in Newcastle for P&O Polar and launched in September 1989. The ship is 94.9 meters long and 3,911 tonnes in weight. She has a cruising speed of 13 knots and accommodates 116 passengers.

The Aurora Australis regularly sails across the Southern Ocean where storms can generate 10 meter high seas and winds of 120–150 km/h. The ship has been known to roll up to 45 degrees in big swells. In these situations the angle of the deck is far steeper than any streets in Australia.

The ship is capable of breaking ice up to 1.23 meters thick and is fitted with a helipad and hangar facilities for three helicopters. She has a trawl deck, purpose designed for marine science and oceanographic work. A wide range of science is conducted in onboard laboratories including biological, oceanography and meteorological experiments and observations. Expeditioners are accommodated in small cabins that sleep three or four people on bunk beds. The beds fold away into couches to save space, and each cabin has its own bathroom and toilet. The ship also has a gym, library and recreation areas.

On a six week voyage, the ship’s kitchen can go through 4,500 eggs, 1,000 kg of potatoes and 280 liters of ice cream. The ship can produce up to 45,000 liters of fresh water per day.

Australian Antarctic Division: Leading Australia’s Antarctic Program

The Aurora Australis is Australia’s Antarctic flagship. It was named after the southern hemisphere atmospheric phenomenon, the aurora australis.

Designed as a multi-purpose research and resupply ship, the Aurora Australis was built by Carrington Slipways in Newcastle for P&O Polar and launched in September 1989. The ship is 94.9 metres long and 3911 tonnes in weight. It has a cruising speed of 13 knots, and accommodates 116 passengers. It is capable of breaking ice up to 1.23 metres thick. The ship is also fitted with a helipad and hangar facilities for three helicopters.

The Aurora Australis regularly sails across the Southern Ocean where storms can generate 10 metre high seas and winds of 120–150 km/h. The ship has been known to roll up to 45 degrees in big swells. In these situations the angle of the deck is far steeper than any streets in Australia. The Aurora Australis is painted a very bright orange, thus allowing it to be easily seen in ice-strewn waters.

The Aurora Australis is well equipped

with a trawl deck, purpose designed for marine science and oceanographic work. A wide range of science is conducted in onboard laboratories. This includes biological, oceanography and meteorological experiments and observations.

On a six week voyage, the ship’s kitchen can go through 4500 eggs, 1000 kg of potatoes and 280 litres of ice cream. The ship can produce up to 45,000 litres of fresh water per day for use on board for both drinking and other uses.

With satellite communications, people on the ship can phone anywhere in the world at any time. Expeditioners are also able to stay in contact with friends and family via email. Expeditioners are accommodated in small cabins that sleep three or four people on bunk beds. The beds fold away into couches to save space, and each cabin has its own bathroom and toilet. The ship also has a gym, library and recreation areas. Everybody eats together in a large communal mess.

OUTBACK QUEENSLAND SILOS AND PUBS

Outback of Australia is dotted with historic pubs. Many are in remote locations, most are old and all of them have a fascinating history. Often, they are much more than a pub – they can be the centre of their community, often acting as post office, general store, cafe, church and even the police station! What is common with most of them is they are run by outback characters who in turn attract all sorts of personalities - from local stockmen and farmers to truckies, backpackers, seasonal workers and all sorts of travellers who are roaming through the heart of the country. We will stay in a range of motel style accommodation and enjoy some stunning outback scenery.

Day 1 (D) HOME TO MOREE Monday 16th February 2026

We have a fabulous 10 days ahead of us, visiting some silo art and country pubs. No doubt, along the way, we will meet some real characters as we travel from the coast to outback Queensland. We have a travel day today so sit back and meet your fellow adventures taking in the ever-changing landscape. We make stops along the way including a stop at the Royal Hotel in Guyra for lunch before arriving late afternoon to Moree for our overnight accommodation. Morning tea from the coach | Lunch at the Royal Hotel, Guyra and dinner in motel

Artesian Spa Motel, Moree | 1 night

See Cobb & Co Changing Station Museum to Big Shows

Wonderful Country -Historical Hotels -Amazing Silos – Clarence River Estuary and more -Meet new friends Great meals & Accommodation

• Day 2 (BLD) MOREE TO ROMA

• Day 3 (BLD) ROMA TO CHARLEVILLE

• Day 4 (BLD) CHARLEVILLE TO QUILPIE

• Day 5 (BLD) QUILPIE TO THARGOMINDAH continued

• Day 6 (BLD) THARGOMINDAH TO CUNNAMULLA

• Day 7 (BLD) CUNNAMULLA TO ST GEORGE

• Day 8 (BD) ST GEORGE TO GOONDIWINDI

• Day 9 (BLD) GOONDIWINDI TO BALLINA

• Day 10 (BL) BALLINA TO HOME

TOUR INCLUSIONS

• 9 night’s motel accommodation

• 9 motel breakfasts

• 9 motel dinners

• 9 included lunches – see below

• Lunch at the Royal Hotel Guyra

• Entry and Lunch at the Cobb & Co Changing Station

• Entry to the Night Show-Roma Big Rig

• Lunch at Hotel Corones, Charleville

• Tour + Beverage with Hotel Corones Stories Tour

• WWII Base and Tour USAAF Top Secret sites, Charleville

• Big Sky Twilight Session at Charleville Cosmos Centre & Visitors Centre

• Quilpie Town Tour

• Lunch at Quilpie Heritage Inn

• Tour and morning tea at Eromanga Natural History Museum

• Lunch at Noccundra Hotel

• Locally guided tour of Thargomindah

• Lunch at Eulo Queen Hotel

• Entry and self-guided tour of the Artesian Time Tunnel, Cunnamulla Visitor Information Centre

• Tour, morning tea and ploughman's lunch at Charlotte Plains Cattle Station

• Visit the Sir Henry Parkes School of Arts, Tenterfield

• Entry and lunch at Behind The Hedge, Tenterfield

• Lunch at The Anchors Wharf Café, Urunga

$4,272 pp twin | + $1,079 pp single sup

$850 pp deposit

For more information or to book; Phone 02 6583 3330

Email: admin@portbus.com.au

Website: https://www.portbus.com.au

Online @ https://events.humanitix.com/QLD-outback-silos-26

KIMBERLEY AND WA TOURS -

SMALL GROUP 4WD SPECIALISTS

Put on your hiking shoes, have your swimming gear handy and get ready for breathtaking Kimberley and WA scenery, endless gorges, and Aboriginal culture as you tour with Kimberley Safari Tours - the specialists in the Kimberley and Gibb River Road Tours. We have fantastic Broome to Broome Kimberley Tours and we also have Perth to Broome Tours via Karijini, and the magnificent WA coastline. Explore the best of Kimberley and WA with the experts. Kimberley Safari Tours is a family-based business passionate about our beautiful state and our rich culture and history.

Tour in small groups (typically 16-19 people) in modern, 4WD air-conditioned coaches, built for the tough Kimberley conditions. Journey with experienced guides ready to inform you at every corner. Comfortable camping (stand up tents, 70mm mattresses, pillows, comfy chairs with back / arm rests) with accommodation, park fees and most meals included. Travel to the spectacular and remote Mitchell Falls and the impressive and ancient Munurru Rock Art Sites (few operators go to the Mitchell Plateau). Visit the impressive Wolfe Creek Crater (few tour operators regularly visit this).

Experience WAs magnificent Ningaloo Reef and walk in the Gorges of Karijini on our Perth to Broome Tours. Enjoy camp oven meals, explore gorges, be refreshed swimming in plunge pools and waterfalls, and ponder over ancient rock art. Walks are carefully planned so they are achievable for active travelers of all ages. Defibrillators, First Aid trained staff, remote communication, and safety equipment for peace of mind. Join Kimberley Safari Tours, a family run business, for the adventure of a lifetime!

Kimberley Tours, 'Broome to Broome' depart May through to August

'Perth to Broome' departs May (combine with our Broome to Broome tours at a reduced price

Founded in 2014 Kimberley Safari Tours has a goal and desire to enable others who perhaps don’t have access to a 4WD and camping equipment, to experiences the Northwest of Western Australia in particularly the Kimberley and the Gibb River Road in a comfortable group setting. In October 2023 the business changed ownership to Glenn and Jaye Ursino who are committed to continuing to provide the great comfortable camping tours.

We are a small family business run by a husband a wife team. Each tour has a tour leader and tour guide/helper to assist the tour leader and guests. We intentionally keep our business at its current size so we don't lose the family touch.

Our

Mission

To share our love for the Kimberley through the provision of high quality small group comfortable camping tours, predominantly Kimberley Tours, at an affordable price for active travelers of all ages.

Our

Values

All people are created as equals and are treated with respect and honour. The land and its creatures have been created for humanity to care for and cherish. We only take photographs and create memories whilst leaving no trace of our presence. We value fun, culture and doing things well.

What a Story!

There is a wonderful book called “A Higher Call” about this TRUE story below. The 21-year old American B-17 pilot glanced outside his cockpit and froze. He blinked hard and looked again, hoping it was just a mirage. But his Co-Pilot stared at the same horrible vision. “My God, this is a nightmare,” the Co-Pilot said.

“He’s going to destroy us,” the Pilot agreed.

The men were looking at a gray German Messerschmitt fighter hovering just three feet off their wingtip. It was five days before Christmas 1943, and the fighter had closed in on their crippled American B-17 bomber for the kill.

Brown’s Crippled B-17 Stalked by Stigler’s ME-109

The B-17 Pilot, Charles Brown, was a 21-year-old West Virginia farm boy on his first combat mission. His bomber had been shot to pieces by swarming fighters, and his plane was alone, struggling to stay in the skies above Germany. Half his crew was wounded, and the tail gunner was dead, his blood frozen in icicles over the machine guns.

But when Brown and his Co-Pilot, Spencer “Pinky” Luke, looked at the Fighter Pilot again, something odd happened. The German didn’t pull the trigger. He stared back at the bomber in amazement and respect. Instead of pressing the attack, he nodded at Brown and saluted. What happened next was one of the most remarkable acts of chivalry recorded during World War Il .

Luftwaffe Major Franz Stigler Stigler pressed his hand over the rosary he kept in his flight jacket. He eased his

index finger off the trigger. He couldn’t shoot. It would be murder. Stigler wasn’t just motivated by vengeance that day. He also lived by a code. He could trace his Family’s Ancestry to Knights in 16th Century Europe. He had once studied to be a Priest. A German Pilot who spared the enemy, though, risked death in Nazi Germany. If someone reported him, he would be executed.

Yet, Stigler could also hear the voice of his commanding officer, who once told him: “You follow the rules of war for you -- not your enemy. You fight by rules to keep your humanity.”

Alone with the crippled bomber, Stigler changed his mission. He nodded at the American Pilot and began flying in formation so German anti-aircraft gunners on the ground wouldn’t shoot down the slow-moving bomber. (The Luftwaffe had B-17’s of its own, shot down and rebuilt for secret missions and training.) Stigler escorted the bomber over the North Sea and took one last look at the American Pilot. Then he saluted him, peeled his fighter away and returned to Germany.

“Good luck,” Stigler said to himself. “You’re in God’s hands now...” Franz Stigler didn’t think the big B-17 could make it back to England and wondered for years what happened to the American Pilot and crew he encountered in combat.

Charles Brown, with his wife, Jackie (left), with Franz Stigler, with his wife, Hiya. As he watched the German fighter peel away that December day, 2nd Lt. Charles Brown wasn’t thinking of the philosophical connection between enemies. He was thinking of survival. He flew his crippled plan, filled with wounded, back to his base in England and landed with one of four engines knocked out, one failing and barely any fuel left. After his bomber came to a stop, he leaned back in his chair and put a hand over a pocket Bible he kept in his flight jacket. Then he sat in silence.

Brown flew more missions before the war ended. Life moved on. He got married, had two Daughters, supervised foreign aid for the U.S. State Department during the Vietnam War and eventually retired to Florida.

Late in life, though, the encounter with the German Pilot began to gnaw at him. He started having nightmares, but in his dream there would be no act of mercy. He would awaken just before his bomber crashed.

Brown took on a new mission. He had to find that German Pilot. Who was he? Why did he save my life? He scoured Military Archives in the U.S. and England. He attended a Pilots’ Reunion and shared his story. He finally placed an ad in a German Newsletter for former Luftwaffe Pilots, retelling the story and asking if anyone knew the Pilot.

On January 18, 1990, Brown received a letter. He opened it and read: “Dear Charles, All these years I wondered what happened to that B-17, did she make it home? Did her crew survive their wounds? To hear of your survival has filled me with indescribable joy...”

It was Stigler.

He had had left Germany after the war and moved to Vancouver, British Columbia, in 1953. He became a prosperous Businessman. Now retired, Stigler told Brown that he would be in Florida come summer and “it sure would be nice to talk about our encounter.” Brown was so excited, though, that he couldn’t wait to see Stigler. He called Directory Assistance for Vancouver and asked whether there was a number for a Franz Stigler. He dialed the number, and Stigler picked up. “My God, it’s you!” Brown shouted as tears ran down his cheeks.

Brown had to do more. He wrote a letter to Stigler in which he said: “To say THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU on behalf of my surviving crew members and their families appears totally inadequate.”

The two Pilots would meet again, but this time in person, in the lobby of a Florida hotel. One of Brown’s Friends was there to record the Summer Reunion. Both men looked like retired businessmen: they were plump, sporting neat ties and formal shirts. They fell into each other’ arms and wept and laughed. They talked about their encounter in a light, jovial tone.

The mood then changed. Someone asked Stigler what he thought about Brown. Stigler sighed and his square jaw tightened. He began to fight back tears before he said in heavily accented English: “I love you, Charlie.”

Stigler had lost his Brother, his Friends and his Country. He was virtually exiled by his Countrymen after the war. There were 28,000 Pilots who fought for the German Air Force. Only 1,200 survived. The war cost him everything. Charlie Brown was the only good thing that came out of World War II for Franz. It was the one thing he could be proud of. The meeting helped Brown as well, says his oldest daughter, Dawn Warner.

They met as enemies but Franz Stigler, on left, and Charles Brown, ended up as fishing buddies.

Brown and Stigler became pals. They would take fishing trips together. They would fly cross-country to each other homes and take road trips together to share their story at schools and Veterans’ Reunions. Their Wives, Jackie Brown and Hiya Stigler, became

Friends.

Brown’s Daughter says her Father would worry about Stigler’s health and constantly check in on him.

“It wasn’t just for show,” she says. “They really did feel for each other. They talked about once a week.” As his friendship with Stigler deepened, something else happened to her father, Warner says “The nightmares went away.”

Brown had written a letter of thanks to Stigler, but one day, he showed the extent of his gratitude. He organized a reunion of his surviving crew members, along with their extended families.

He invited Stigler as a Guest of Honor. During the Reunion, a video was played showing all the faces of the people that now lived -- Children, Grandchildren, Relatives -- because of Stigler’s act of Chivalry. Stigler watched the film from his Seat of Honor.

“Everybody was crying, not just him,” Warner says.

Stigler and Brown died within months of each other in 2008. Stigler was 92, and Brown was 87. They had started off as Enemies, became Friends, and then something more.

After he died, Warner was searching through Brown’s library when she came across a book on German fighter jets. Stigler had given the book to Brown. Both were country boys who loved to read about planes.

Warner opened the book and saw an inscription Stigler had written to Brown:

In 1940, I lost my only brother as a night fighter. On the 20th of December, 4 days before Christmas, I had the chance to save a B-17 from her destruction, a plane so badly damaged, it was a wonder that she was still flying. The Pilot, Charlie Brown, is for me as precious as my Brother was.

Thanks Charlie.

Your Brother, Franz

By Les Taylor Banora Point Bowls Club

COMMUNITY LED REFUGEE PROGRAM IS HERE TO STAY

In February, the Australian Government has announced that a program that allows refugees to be sponsored by local community groups will be made permanent in 2026.

So far, the program has enabled around 550 refugees to be settled in towns and cities across Australia with the support of community groups.

What is CRISP?

The Community Refugee Integration and Settlement Pilot (CRISP) is a program which connects refugees to volunteer community groups, who provide practical and financial support and

assistance to the individual or family for 12 months. The government has been running it as a pilot for three years.

The CRISP provides an alternative resettlement pathway for refugees referred by the UN Refugee Agency, but who do not have family links in Australia.

Under the program, refugees receive wraparound settlement and integration support directly from trained community groups to help them navigate life in their new country – from meeting at the airport and providing temporary accommodation, food, household goods and short-term financial support, to assistance with securing long-term housing, registering for services, enrolling in school and adult education classes, and applying for jobs.

Participants can access the same government services as other humanitarian visa holders, such as Medicare and Centrelink.

The My New Neighbour campaign and community sponsorship model.

Our My New Neighbour campaign launched in 2018 calling for a fair and just community sponsorship program for refugees.

At the time, the Government’s existing Community Support Program was a small, private model of sponsorship with significant limitations: the costs were exorbitant, it had strict age and English Language requirements, and it prioritised those who were willing to work in regional Australia, rather than those in urgent need of resettlement. Along with other civil society organisations, we developed an alternative model that argued that community or faith-based groups could sponsor those UNHCR identified as in most need, who did not have family links in Australia and were not yet job-ready.

We recommended that the Australian community could support the sponsorship of around 10,000 refugees per annum through a community sponsorship program.

Our supporters threw their support behind the campaign, with almost 40,000 signatories. The My New Neighbour campaign gained support from local Councils around Australia, who pledged their support for a new community sponsorship model, similar to Canada’s.

“The success of the CRISP shows the solidarity and big heart of the Australian community in welcoming and supporting refugees. We have long advocated for such a program.“

Zaki Haidari, Amnesty International Australia’s Strategic Campaigner on Refugees

CRISP in action.

After years of Amnesty’s advocacy and following a groundswell of action from supporters, the community, civil society groups, local councils and state governments, at the end of 2021 the Government announced the CRISP pilot, providing 1,500 places over four years.

It also finally agreed to significantly reduce the cost of the existing Community Sponsorship Program, addressing our concern that sponsorship must be affordable and accessible for everyday Australians to participate and welcome refugees into their communities.

In September 2022 the first refugee families from Syria, Afghanistan and Myanmar arrived in Australia under the program. Since commencing in 2022, this live-saving initiative has enabled 140 community groups around the country to support more than 550 refugees to rebuild their lives in safety in Australia.

What’s next?

We still have improvements to make – such as increasing the number of places allocated. Since the Government has finally recognised the important role communities and everyday Australians can play in humanitarian settlement, this now feels all the more possible.

We’re continuing to advocate for the Federal government to raise Australia’s refugee and humanitarian intake to at least 30,000 places, and for this program to exist in addition to it.

Click here to take action and call on the Federal Government to increase Australia’s Refugee and Humanitarian intake.

Nancy Wake

Was One of The Most Highly Decorated Women of WW2.

Story courtesy of Tony Bonner AM

It would be impossible of me to cover correctly this woman’s life’s journey in the space I have been allotted, so if I may implore you to read her autobiography, I will be very happy.

The German gestapo called her “The White Mouse.’’ Nancy Grace Augusta Wake AC GM. Born in New Zealand in 1912. In1914 the Wake family moved to Sydney Australia, where she grew up. Nancy was from the start going to be a woman who marched to the rhythm of her own drum.

At 16, she ran away from home working as a nurse for a short time. Then as luck would have it, inherited two hundred pounds (approx. $K4) a princely sum at this time. This money took the feisty young woman to New York City, then onto London where she trained herself to be a journalist. In the 1930’s, Wake went to Paris to work for the famous Hearst Newspapers, where she witnessed first hand, the rise of Adolf Hitler and the nazi movement. In 1937 Nancy met Henri Fiocca an industrialist, and subsequently married him in 1939, the outbreak of WW2. By 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany, with

Nancy becoming a courier for an escape network, the Pat O’Leary Network, led by Ian Garro. This brave network assisted allied airmen who had been shot down to evade capture by the Nazis to then escape to a neutral Spain at the time. This of course was desperately dangerous work for Nancy and the network organising this under the noses of the Germans, it was death to this brave network if detected. By 1943 the Germans became aware that escapes were being made by the shot down airmen, and the name of Nancy was becoming known by the Germans, so she now needed to escape. So the route to Spain was now to be used by Nancy. This was a success, she then went onto London to report of her and the networks activity in France…. At this time it had become known that Nancy’s husband, Henri Focca was arrested and shot for his part in the escape network, so it was good fortune for Nancy that she had escaped when she did.

Nancy now in London became even more involved with the escape network in France. She joined Special Operations there in London, with the code name of H’el’ene and in 1944 with two others parachuted back in occupied France. She now liaised between HQ in London and the networks in France… the centre of the network’s focus was in the Marquis and Auvergne region in France. By now the Germans had given her the name of ‘The White Mouse.’ In 1944 Nancy and the Marquis force were involved in a major battle with the Germans, they were defeated and Nancy needed to escape to report this defeat. Nancy stole a bicycle and rode the 500 kilometres to a friendly contact to report this defeat to London. In August 1945, The United States dropped an atomic bomb on Nagasaki. World War 2 officially ended on the 2nd September, 1945. In 1945 Nancy was awarded the George Medal from The United Kingdom and the Medal of Freedom from The United States of America. Then in 1947 The L’egion D’homnure from France. The Companion of the Order of Australia was awarded to her in 2004 and also The Badge of Gold from New Zealand. What a woman indeed. Nancy returned to Australia in 1949. As I mentioned in the beginning of this journey that I recommend reading her autobiography. I hope I have wet your

appetite, there is so much detail for you to discover. She stood as a liberal candidate, not successful on this occasion to run again in 1951. She returned to London to work for The Air Ministry. In 1957 Nancy married and returned to Australia with her RAF husband John Forward, she maintained her political interests, and wrote her autobiography. God bless The White Mouse.

Lest We Forget.

STORY COURTESY OF TONY BONNER AM

BOWLING & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE are giving one of our lucky readers the opportunity to win a copy of BRYAN BROWN’S new book

“THE

HIDDEN.’’

To be in the draw, email your entry to bowlsplus1@bigpond.com

Winner will be advised by email.

BRYAN BROWN’S latest book

“THE HIDDEN’’ is a captivating crime thriller set in “The Heads’’ (a small village) on the NSW north coast. The story revolves around the unsavoury activities below the surface of the village, after a shipment of coke is delivered to the town. This debacle, proves to be problematic in the community, which is currently consumed by inconsequential everyday difficulties. However, this latest disaster can only be described as a catastrophic nightmare. Unfortunately, the community now faces the ultimate involvement of a crime squad investigation and a drug overdose.

CAREER

BRYAN BROWN AM has been lighting up our screens for over four decades and is recognised and respected as one of Australia’s most treasured screen icons. He has starred in over 80 films and television productions since the late 1970’s both in Australia and abroad. He subsequently achieved enormous success and fuelled public fascination in 1980 with his critically acclaimed performances in BREAKER MORANT and A TOWN LIKE ALICE, which propelled him onto the world stage. Bryan’s other notable productions include,

THE THORN BIRDS (1983) COCKTAIL (1988) GORILLAS IN THE MIST (1988) TWO HANDS (1999) BEAUTIFUL KATE (2009) & AUSTRALIA (2008).

In 2019 he starred and produced the Australian drama PALM BEACH. The movie was directed by Brown’s wife Rachel Ward. The film featured a stellar cast which included Sam Neill, Greta Scacchi and Bryan’s daughter Matilda. The film’s popularity and cult status resulted in positive reviews and an extraordinary career revival for Brown, which also garnered a significant place in the hearts of all Australians and Australian cinematic history. However, it was his outstanding performance in the (1983) television miniseries THE THORN BIRDS which achieved a Golden Globe and Emmy Award nomination. Bryan received the Australian Film Institute Award for Best Actor in a supporting Role for BREAKER MORANT (1980) and for TWO HANDS (1999) He was inducted into the Logie Hall of Fame in 1989, and was made a member of the Order of Australia in 2005 for services to the community through a range of charitable organisations, and for his commitment to the Australian film and television industry.

Bryan started his writing career in 2021. His debut book “SWEET JIMMY” was a commercial success selling over 16,000 copies. However, Bryan still remains active in the entertainment industry as an actor and producer……….

STORY COURTESY OF CATHERINE COLUSSO

HOLLYWOOD SCREEN LEGEND, ROBERT REDFORD

PASSES AWAY.

1936 – 2025

The world mourns following the death of Hollywood Legend, Robert Redford, a giant of the big screen for more than 6 decades. Redford’s death has resulted in an outpouring of global emotion from heartbroken fans and caused an unrepairable void in the entertainment industry. Tributes from Hollywood’s elite, including Jane Fonda and Barbra Streisand, have highlighted Redford’s immense popularity as an actor, director, producer and environmental activist. Redford’s passing has also subsequently resulted in increased global-attention, and brought his long-standing work as an activist back into the spotlight.

Robert Redford was born in Santa Monica (USA) in 1936, he went on to study at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, and made his Broadway debut with a small part in 1959’s

‘Tall Story,’ followed by a lead in the 1963 movie ‘Barefoot in the Park’ opposite Jane Fonda, which resulted in his big Hollywood break. Redford, then continued his success by playing ‘The Sundance Kid’ to Paul Newman’s ‘Butch Cassidy.’ The movie became the highest-grossing movie of 1969. More success followed with roles in ‘The Sting’ and ‘The Way We Were.’ In 1980 Redford made his directorial debut with the extraordinary movie ‘Ordinary People’ which won the 1981 Best Picture and Best Director Academy Awards. Robert Redford will be remembered as an Oscarwinning Hollywood Legend who helped define American cinema. Redford’s legacy will also live on through his iconic films and his activism for environmental causes that he championed. Redford’s influence also extends to all the filmmakers he mentored and the extraordinary impact he had on those who knew him.

STORY COURTESY OF CATHERINE COLUSSO

MAKE A BRIGHTER FUTURE YOUR LEGACY

For 60 years Amnesty International has campaigned for a world where human rights are enjoyed by all. We believe everyone is entitled to live in a world where their human rights are recognised, realised, and protected. At the very core of Amnesty International is the belief that the actions of each individual can make a difference. What better way to demonstrate this than by making a gift in your Will and helping to transform the future for the better?

Organising your Will is a way to ensure that everything you have stood for in your life, everything you believed in and cared so deeply about, lives on for the next generation. A Will is more than a piece of paper, it is absolutely vital to preserving and protecting the fundamental rights that underpin everything else we hold dear.

When you choose to make a gift in your Will to Amnesty International, our promise to you is to continue to uphold our shared values long into the future. We are proudly independent and non-partisan, which means gifts in Wills are critical to our work. We rely on the generosity of our supporters to help us search out the facts, expose what’s happening and rally people

together to pressure governments and those in power to respect human rights.

It’s more important than ever to hold on to what you believe in, and what you know is true. No matter the size of your gift, it’s a way of ensuring that the struggle to uphold our shared values of freedom, equality and justice will continue in the world we’re leaving our children and grandchildren.

Your gift to Amnesty International will help safeguard a future world where human rights are respected, defended and upheld. It’s a gift that will ensure that your values will live on for your loved ones and across generations to come.

For more information, please reach out to the team at Amnesty at bequests@amnesty.org.au or visit www.amnesty.org.au to find out more

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