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News
March 2015
Fifty~Plus News ­­­­­1
62,000 copies monthly
MARCH 2015
New Friendships Sealed with PARO
Sitting in her favourite
armchair in the sunshine
at Aurrum Brunswick, an
elderly lady gently stroked
the fluffy white fur of the
creature in her lap. She spoke
softly to it and in return, the
creature lifted its head and
made friendly, almost lifelike
sounds in return.
A new friend had been
made – in the form of PARO, a
robotic baby harp seal. PARO
is described by its inventor,
Dr Takanori Shibata as “a therapeutic companion robot,
designed to improve sociability and communication
between patients and caregivers.”
“A seal was chosen because no one has a preconceived
idea of how a seal should behave – unlike cats and dogs”
says Dr. Shibata.
PARO is a robot seal covered in pure white synthetic
fur with built-in intelligence providing psychological,
physiological, and social effects through physical
interaction with humans. Inside are two 23-bit CPUs
(central processing units), which can process voice
recognition and imitate animal behaviour, enabling PARO
to develop its own character. PARO has five different types
of sensors over the body that allows it to perceive people
and the environment, and respond to touch, light, sound,
temperature and posture.
Weighing about the same as a newborn baby, PARO has
the ability to learn new words and remember the voices
different people. At Aurrum Brunswick alone, PARO is
regularly spoken to in Greek and Italian as well as English.
PARO has been proven as a stimulating and engaging tool
for dementia sufferers all over the world. There are over
300’000 people in Australia living with dementia, with
that number expected to rise significantly over the next
decade, so the introduction of PARO to the Australian
market is great news for family members and carers of
dementia patients.
John’s 65 year old mother (see photo below) is a resident
at Aurrum Reservoir and he says since being introduced
to PARO, his mother is happier than ever. “When I saw her
this morning, I left the room for about five minutes and
when I came back in to sit with her she said ‘Are you still
here? I’ve got my PARO now – I don’t need you anymore!’”
he says laughing. “Whenever PARO is around the smile on
her face is just beautiful. She gets excited. She’s happy.”
Aurrum is planning to make use of PARO across all of its
sites in Victoria and New South Wales. “We wanted to
take part in a good quality initiative,” says Area General
Manager, Glenda Walker.
Not only is PARO extremely practical and therapeutic
for people with dementia, research has also shown that
it alleviates the symptoms of people who suffer from
depression and anxiety and in some cases even reduces
the need for medication.
PARO was developed in 1993 by Dr Takanori Shibata
and officially released commercially in Japan in 2005.
In 2009 PARO was introduced to Europe, with Denmark
at the forefront of adopting this innovative technology.
“I’ve been working on a few different kinds of PARO, each
designed for specific purposes. For example, this PARO
here is great therapy for elderly people, especially those
suffering with dementia.” Dr. Shibata says.
“In the cases for children with autism or Down
Syndrome, I’ve been developing a PARO that can be
used to train children in social skills. There are also ones
in development to deal specifically with developmental
problems and psychological problems.”
Professor Peter Disler is an accomplished senior
physician and academic at the University of Melbourne
and has seen the positive effects of PARO first hand in
his work with Aurrum. “I know as well as anyone how
difficult it is to deal with the behavioural side of things
with people with dementia.” He says. “There’s so many
electronic devices nowadays, that memory is becoming
largely irrelevant. But behaviour is a real challenge, and
whatever we have to improve it, is good. Through my
observations, I’ve found an improvement in behaviour
and satisfaction amongst residents and a generally high
acceptance of PARO. I think it’s a fantastic thing.”
Photo above - Another Aurrum resident Leigh with PARO
For more information: View source article:
agedcareonline.com.au/2015/01/PARO-The-TherapeuticRobot-Helping-The-Elderly
Or see the website www.parorobots.com
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News
Fifty~Plus News
March 2015
LIFE Activities Clubs
with Robert Geary
Brighton Bayside LAC
Ready for the ride in 2014
Brighton Bayside LAC’s Cycling Group will gather for
the third Autumn Cycling week at Bright at the end of
April for five days of cycling and great evenings with a
glass or two of your favourite tipple around the log fire.
Superbly organized by Joan Petterson, one of the BBLAC
cycling convenors and supported by a willing group of
helpers in catering and ride planning, this has become
one of the most sought after activities in the club. Most
hills have become thrilling downhill runs by skilful use
of the busbike system operating on the Bright Trail. The
wineries, towns and glorious autumn colours and the
more easy slopes of a rail trail make this and outstanding
experience. Cycling is one of several activities that attract
the younger and active retirees to our club. Contact us
and fill your life with fun and challenges. Contact the club
at bblac@life.org.au and get with the strength!
MORNINGTON LAC
A variety of bus and train trips are regularly convened and
well attended by our members. Such was our delightful
trip to Williamstown by train and ferry where we visited
the market and the boutique shops. Our barbeques
throughout the year are warmly attended as is our Happy
Hour and Dinner on a Tuesday evening. Our Annual
Committee Barbeque in March is to be held at the unique
location of Seawinds, Arthurs Seat Dromana. During the
summer months we make the best of the great outdoors
and enjoy barefoot bowling, walks, minigolf, golf, race
meets and picnic barbeques.
Join the LACVI Interclub Bird watching group
Birds! Fascinating creatures and so much to learn about
them. Members of ANY Life
Activities Club are welcome
to join in our interclub
birdwatching group. Maybe you
might even wish to join a Club
so you can participate in ALL
their regular activities, as well
as the birding. We don’t meet
regularly, but if you contact
Lindsay on lindoig@gmail.com
or phone him on 0414 733 930,
he will invite you to be part of
the group whenever they are
having an excursion – perhaps 3 or 4 times a year. There
are lots of great places to observe our feathered friends
around Melbourne – and perhaps even further afield.
Waverley LAC
Inner Melbourne Life Activities Club
Thirty IMLAC members welcomed in the New Year
with our now traditional New Year’s Day lunch at ‘Berth
Restaurant’ at Docklands. The weather was great and
members had the opportunity to reminisce on the past
year and look forward to a new and vibrant club year.A
stand-out event for 2014 was the club hosting of a lunch
as part of ‘Seniors’ Week’ celebrations when more that 150
seniors, mostly visitors,enjoyed a lunch on the balcony at
‘La Camera’ Southbank on a sunny, warm day.
Our 325 members take part regularly in one or more of
our 30 different interest groups. They range from Cycling,
Golf (2 groups), table tennis, and walking (2 groups) to
Patchwork Plus, Mah Jong, Rummikub, Cards (4 groups),
Music
Upcoming events include cinema, theatre and the free
MSO Sydney Myer Music Bowl concerts.
For information about IMLAC send an email to imlac@life.
org.au
Listening (2 groups), Armchair Travel, Exercises, Films,
and 5 different Dining Out groups ranging. From Brunch
to Coffee and Chat to International Lunches and Happy
Hour and Eat Out. One of our popular groups is held on
the First Sunday of each month where we travel free on
the trains and buses to interesting destinations using our
Myki. Added to our regular group meetings we have an
extra special outing every month. In April we have an
Anzac Day Commemoration Picnic at Jells Park and in
May we are visiting the Costume Collection at Bulleen.
Contact us on 9801 5797 or on our website www.life.org.
au/Waverley
Knox LAC
An interesting day will be spent on March 30. With carpooling organized, we‘ll be on our way to Keilor to visit
“Overnewton Castle” that was built by William Taylor in
1849 in the Victorian Tudor style. His inspiration came
from 16th Century English and Scottish architecture. This
homestead consists of 36 rooms, and remains much the
same as when originally built. Cost is $25:00 and includes
Devonshire Tea on arrival, and a tour of the castle. Please
ring for more information, or for a copy of our latest
newsletter. This is obligation free, and we are happy to
answer any questions. You can also reach us at www.life.
org.au/knox. Melva 9762 3764 or Helen 9729 1151
How to travel the world on a budget
For retirees living on a fixed income, home swap is a great know exactly what you expect.” However both agree that
way to travel the world on a budget. Australian retirees
are being forced to seek alternative ways of pursuing their
travels dreams, meaning sites like HomeExchange.com are
becoming an attractive proposition. Managing a budget
long term is a concern shared by many. Nevertheless, the
appetite for travel, both domestic and abroad, remains high.
In Australia, a 2014 study found that for a comfortable
lifestyle in retirement men aged 65 need to have amassed
$340,000 and women $370,000. However, the average
account balance falls alarmingly short of what is needed
— for males aged 60 to 65 the average account balance
is $114,000 and females $94,000. A fixed low income and
financial woes are preventing many retirees from realising
their goals to travel the world.
HomeExchange.com includes an active community of
retirees around the world. For this fast growing sector, home
swap is an alternative way to travel on a budget year-round.
77% of active retirees exchange their primary residence
while 23% list a second home, which enables additional
flexibility for non-simultaneous exchanges.
I spoke to HomeExchange members Cherryl and Rudi
Schmidt who have been exchanging their home on Russell
Island, QLD for several years. Their experience began as Rudi,
a very keen football (read round ball variety) fan wanted to
travel to Germany for the World Cup and to visit relatives.
Instead of staying in impersonal hotels for weeks or cramping
relatives they decided to look into home exchanges and
have not regretted it.
Cherryl says “it is easy to use the site and you list all your
criteria as to pets, children etc. so those viewing the site
the biggest factor is trust. Rudi says that it is a case of
working with the prospective exchanger and ensure there
is understanding prior to the swap and obviously know the
kind of people you want to swap with. For example they
have decided that their own home would not be suitable for
young children and have declared that on their listing.
Both Rudi and Cherryl admit they would never have been
able to travel so much if it wasn’t for home exchanging and
have made friends with whom they have swapped homes
more than once. Rudi suggests that if you find a home you
think you would like to swap with you can do a Google earth
check in conjunction with the photos on the listing. But
when looking for a possible holiday destination be aware
of what you want. Take into account travel infrastructure
if you want to get around but they have found that many
exchangers will allow the use of a car as well and your car
insurance agency will assist.
The travel opportunities for retirees are diverse: discover
the world, explore one’s own country, or visit children who
live faraway while enjoying the comfort of a real home. Home
exchange also offers a way of testing a retirement destination
in order to live “as a local” before moving permanently.
As a result, what started as a smart way to save on
accommodation has become a lifestyle for some avid
travellers, who have a chance to travel out of school holidays
and take advantage of “off season” plane tickets. “Except for
getting there, a home exchange does not cost any more than
staying home,” reminds Ed Kushins, CEO of HomeExchange.
com, a baby boomer himself and enthusiastic user of the site
he founded 22 years ago.
Sociable Senior Singles
Friends Getting Together Inc is a social
group for singles age 55 plus. We have been
based in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne
for 20 years. There are approximately
30 activities per month and low fees for
members.
Details: Janice 9888 2759 or Lee 0402 824
834
Check out our website too www.
friendsgettingtogether.org.au
garden RELEAF weekend is
coming up on March 7-8, 2015
Independent Garden Centres around
Australia running fun and informative
events to encourage people to get into the
garden and get planting. As gardening is
good for both physical and mental health,
the weekend will also be raising funds
to support beyondblue, so it will be a
weekend themed around ‘something blue’.
To find a garden centre near you, simply go
to www.gardenreleaf.com.au/events/
News
March 2015
Fifty~Plus News ­­­­­3
Self-funded retirees hit by falling interest rates
The decision to cut the official interest rate
will further erode the income of term deposit
holders, especially self-funded retirees, says
National Seniors Australia. The Reserve Bank of
Australia cut interest rates for the first time in 17
months from 2.5 per cent to 2.25 per cent.
National Seniors chief executive Michael
O’Neill said seniors living off simple investments
such as term deposits would be hit the worst.
“Seniors aged over 65 own 45.3 per cent of
bank and financial institution term deposits
and most of them are on low, fixed incomes,’’
O’Neill said. He added that official deeming
rates, used to determine age pension levels,
have not kept pace with falling interest rates.
“What’s probably most concerning is that the
cash rate is now more than a percentage point
lower than the highest deeming rate (3.5%) and
is close to the lower deeming rate (2%), making
it more difficult to earn decent returns. “It’s time
to drop the deeming rates again,” O’Neill said.
The news comes off the back of the RBA’s
November 2014 Monetary Statement which
highlighted that banks had reduced their
term and at-call deposit rates leading to less
competition. The report also said depositors
were continuing to move away from term
deposits as the interest rates on these products
“continue to be less attractive in comparison to
bonus saver accounts.”
“Term deposits are a preferred investment for
many pensioners and self-funded retirees in
particular because of the security and peace of
mind they provide,” O’Neill said.
O’Neill urged older investors to shop around
for the best rate, to be alert to maturing
deposits, avoid automatic rollover of funds at a
lesser rate and check that the term is right for
their circumstances.
Federal Government announces
Severe Behaviour Response
Teams
Minister Fifield has committed to maintaining
original funding levels but addressing this
issue in the long term will require greater
consultation.”
Ms Hills said the aged and community care
sector must now consider this proposal in detail
and work constructively with government, peak
bodies and the wider community.
“A key component of the success or failure
of this proposal going forward will be the
Government’s willingness to engage, consult
and address issues which arise over time. At
present, there is a willingness from Government,
the department and industry to work together
which is pivotal to ongoing reform in aged and
community care.”
Benetas CEO, Sandra Hills, has welcomed the
Government’s announcement of dementiarelated support for aged care residents as a step
forward.
“Since the cessation of the Dementia and Severe
Behaviours Supplement, there has been a serious
lack of support for dementia-related funding in
aged care,” Ms Hills said. “The announcement
represents a step forward in terms of providing
support for those living with dementia however
I would echo many of my colleagues’ comments
in saying this did not necessarily solve all issues.
Gorilla Rangers on Patrol
28 March – 31 May
Calling all rangers!
These
school
holidays take the
grandkids on a
guided
gorilla
patrol to help
monitor, track and
care for gorillas
at Werribee Open
Range Zoo.
Lead
by
an
experienced Head
Ranger, the kids will
head out into the grounds to look for gorillas, trekking through different
kinds of habitat, using their tracking skills and learning more about
these endangered animals.
Entry to the Zoo is free for kids under 16 during the school holidays and
kids can also explore the new Gorilla Ranger Hut and enjoy self-guided
gorilla missions, storytelling and dress-ups. Bring your binoculars and
pack light for this very special gorilla patrol!
The adventure begins at the Zoo’s indoor play space Ranger Kids,
which has been transformed into a gorilla sanctuary with ranger dress
ups and lots of plush primate patients to look after. Climbing aboard the
wooden helicopter, kids can look for injured gorillas and help transport
them back to the field hospital for bandaging and treatment. Under
the canvas roof of the hospital, complete with a surgery and research
area, budding vets can diagnose, treat and care for their gorilla patients,
before releasing them back into the wild. The littlies will also enjoy
storytelling with new and much-loved stories all about gorillas.
Throughout the day rangers can venture out on a self-guided gorilla
mission, or report for duty at 13:30 hours for the daily Guided Gorilla
Patrol. During the trek, kids will explore different kinds of habitat and
use their tracking skills to find and learn more about gorillas. They’ll also
learn about the important role that rangers and vets play in protecting
gorillas in the wild.
Finally the patrol will come face to face with gorillas Motaba, Yakini
and Ganyeka as they forage for leafy greens. It concludes with a public
Keeper Talk at 2pm.
IN THIS ISSUE
COTA (Vic) comment
4
National Seniors comment
4
Computer Tips
7
Genealogy7
Managing Money
9
Classifieds
14
Lifestyle
15
Virginia Hill
15
Ben Knight
15
Mindgames Puzzles 16
Body & Mind
17
Going Places
18
Arts & Entertainment
20
Arts & Events Digest
22
Let’s Go
23
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Fifty~Plus News
Flying Doctor medical
centre welcomes
Outback travellers
Birthplace of the Broken Hill Proprietary
Company (BHP) and the Australian union
movement, home to some splendid 19th
century architecture and a wealth of galleries,
museums and stunning natural landscapes,
the newly Heritage Listed mining town of
Broken Hill attracts thousands of tourists each
year. Its spectacular Outback terrain offers
great options for camping, fishing, hiking and
off-road driving holidays.
Situated 935 km north-west of Sydney, 725 km
north-west of Melbourne, and 420 km northeast of Adelaide, the so-called “Silver City” is
the last major population centre for travellers
heading to Queensland, South Australia and
the Northern Territory.
With services at a premium in some remote
areas, Broken Hill is also a gateway for accessing
health services in Far Western New South Wales.
It boasts the Royal Flying Doctor Service, South
Eastern Section (RFDS SE) Base, a hospital and
various other health services.
Unfortunately, up to a quarter of RFDS
emergency medical evacuations involve
travellers who get into trouble during their
Outback adventure. In many cases, preparation
for the rigours of travelling in isolated areas can
help prevent an emergency.
Those travellers and visitors with nonemergency medical needs are now welcome to
use the recently opened Clive Bishop Medical
Centre, which also provides a range of medical
services for visiting RFDS SE Section patients
and staff. It offers state of the art facilities and is
staffed by a GP, a registrar and a nurse. Services
offered include:
• family medicine
•
•
•
•
•
men’s health
women’s health
minor surgical procedures
immunisations
chronic disease and GP management
care plans
• children’s health checks
• wound care management
• skin checks
• health assessments for over 75 yearolds
• driver’s licence medicals
While the Centre offers Medicare bulkbilling for Australian residents, not all
services are included under Medicare
guidelines.
The Clive Bishop Medical Centre is situated at
the RFDS Base on Airport Road, next to Broken
Hill Airport. It is open from 9am to 5pm from
Monday to Friday. For an appointment call (08)
8080 3780.
The RFDS Base is also home to the Bruce
Langford Visitor Centre and shop, voted No. 1
local tourist attraction on Trip Advisor’s Things
to Do. A Base tour includes a look behind the
scenes at the work in the aircraft hangar and
a visit to the Visitor Centre museum, which
explores the story and evolution of the RFDS
through a series of: exhibits, artefacts, models,
films and interactive displays.
The Bruce Langford Visitor Centre is
open 7 days a week, Monday-Friday 9- 5,
Saturday-Sunday and public holidays 10- 3.
­­­­­4
News
Fifty~Plus News
March 2015
A new season but the same focus
Comment
with Sue Hendy, CEO, COTA Victoria
The mellow season of autumn is with us and we have
survived another summer. Fortunately this summer was
not as hot as expected compared to the previous summer
heatwaves but still it may not be over yet.
Over the last few years, COTA Victoria’s information
service has organised a public awareness program by
holding seminars on how to deal with the heat and
publicising prevention measures on our website and
Facebook. In the January 2014 heat waves, 139 people
died from heat stroke and many of these deaths could
have been prevented. Others suffered serious health
setbacks. Along with the Victorian Department of Health
initiatives, our public awareness program is an important
way to inform the community so that we can protect older
people from the risks of heat. The CSIRO tells us that we
can expect more heatwaves and at greater intensity in the
future and this is a major consequence of climate change.
Also 2014 was our hottest year on record.
We have a group of concerned seniors in COTA, the
Green Sages, who organise a range of activities to increase
awareness of climate change and its consequences. You
can find out more about their activities on our website:
www.cotavic.org.au
Autumn is also the time of the year when we draw
attention to our submission for the Victorian Budget
which comes down in May. After months of speaking
with and listening to older people we submitted our
brief to Government and all politicians so that they know
what older Victorians want from the Budget. From this
extensive consultation with older Victorians, our short
list is prepared and our proposals are sensible and cost
effective, aimed at making life better for older Victorians
particularly for those who are doing it tough.
This year our key concern is the issue of suitable and
affordable housing. We recognise that quality housing
is the key determinant of health and wellbeing. House
prices and rents have escalated over recent years and
there are limited options for older people with many at
the risk of homelessness. The focus has been on private
sector investment with high revenue retirement villages
that many cannot afford. The lack of social and public
housing, skyrocketing private rentals and insecure tenure
are critical issues. This scarcity of public and social housing
is causing stress for an increasing number of older people.
We are asking the Government to hold an urgent inquiry
into this. At the moment we are supporting HAAG
(Housing for the Aged Action Group) whose funding for
their successful support service will run out this March.
A Tough Dcision
Probably the toughest choice that most of
us will have to make as we age is when to stop
driving – after all, how does anyone manage
without a car.
Victoria has a system of voluntary licence
surrender, unless VicRoads asks you to
undertake a competency driving test and you
fail. Victoria has a “dob in” system whereby
another person can contact the police or
VicRoads and say that they think you are unfit
to drive. Or the police can refer you to VicRoads
if they observe a perceived driving problem. Vic
Roads will arrange a driving test.
If you have the misfortune to suffer a medical
episode that gives you a physical disability,
the hospital or your GP will ask VicRoads to
arrange a driving test with a specially trained
occupational therapist.
This testing must be fair. We had one elderly
member who had driven stick shifts all his life
and the VicRoads tester turned up with an
automatic, insisting that our member could
not use his own car. Of course he failed. But
we helped to get him a retest with a stick shift
and he passed. He’s still looking for the family
member who dobbed him in.
Unfortunately the topic of ’Older Drivers’ hits
the news regularly and we have to try to defend
our reputation. Here in Victoria we have one of
the world’s premier research organisations into
road accidents, the Monash University Accident
Research Centre (MUARC). They are currently
doing a 5 year driver study in partnership with
a similar Canadian research organisation. Local
journalists only have to contact MUARC to get
the facts.
Often statistics will state that the over-65s
feature highly in road deaths. MUARC studies
tell us that:
1. We are more fragile as we age and less
able to withstand trauma.
2. As a general rule we drive older cars,
especially rurally. They do not have
multiple air bags and all the other
latest safety gadgets.
Other research findings are:
1. Our cognitive ability reduces. We
take longer to process information
in a strange road environment. This is
why VicRoads has a conditional licence
restricting the driver to a certain distance
from home.
2. Our night driving ability diminishes
as we find glare difficult. This is why
VicRoads has a daytime licence option.
3. By and large we obey speed limits. We
are not time challenged. Unfortunately
that makes us a target for tailgating.
4. Our reactions are slower, but we factor
that in and try to leave more time and
space for emergencies.
5. Provided we are medically fit we are
not a danger.
6. Age-based testing does not give any
better accident statistics and wastes
resources.
All the other states have abandoned
compulsory age-based testing, except NSW
which requires a practical test every 2 years
when drivers reach 85. All except Victoria have
moved to requiring an annual medical “Fitness
to Drive” report from a GP generally from 75
except for South Australia (70) and Western
Australia (80), meaning annual licences. South
Australia also requires an annual eyesight test.
Victoria has a 3 year licence from 75. If you
reach 75 with more than 3 years left on your
10 year licence, you can use the 10 year licence
until it expires. However we expect Victoria to
come into line with the other states and require
medical certificates. Who carries the cost will
be an interesting debate. Some states have
pensioner concessions but some don’t.
For a copy of VicRoads’ excellent booklet
The Victorian Older Drivers
Handbook, call 13 11 71.
Arnie Bates
National Seniors Victorian
Policy Chair
Their service has helped over 800 people in the last year to
relocate from precarious housing to long term affordable
accommodation. They will have to close shop on March 31
unless the State government provides funding.
Of course the transport needs of older Victorians,
particularly for those in country regions where there is
limited access is central to our concerns. Our budget
submission has a number of recommendations that
would help alleviate transport difficulties and at little cost.
At a time when living costs go up year by year, the issue
of concessions is vital. COTA wants concessions reviewed
and extended to include a concession for internet
connection as the internet plays an increasingly vital
role in the lives of older people. We do not want to see
Commonwealth cuts lessen the value of concessions and
we need the State Government to maintain and increase
concessions in accordance with the cost of living index.
You can read the Budget submission on our website:
www.cotavic.org.au
Finally, COTA urges the State Government to continue its
support of our work and that of local councils in creating
age friendly communities. Do you want to see an age
friendly Victoria? If so write to your local MP and let them
know you support COTA Victoria’s budget submission.
Inaugural Graduating Class for
Jewish Care and Selmar Partnership
The inaugural graduation of
students who have completed
Certificate III in Aged Care/ Home
and Community Care took place
this week at Jewish Care, with
ten graduates receiving their
qualification.
The
nationally-accredited
aged care course was delivered
on a part-time basis, over a six
month period, which included
a combined 140 hours of work
placement in one of Jewish Care’s
residential aged care facilities.
Jewish Care, together with
preferred Registered Training
Organisation (RTO) partner Selmar
Aged Care Education Institute,
offered this Dual Certificate III in
Aged Care/Home and Community
Care in-house for the first time.
The course prepared the students
for work as a Personal Care Worker.
It is designed to teach the skills
and provide the knowledge to
enable graduates to assist elderly
people in maintaining their
personal care and daily activities in
their own homes or in a residential
setting. Work placement at one of
Jewish Care’s aged care residences
was offered to complement the
studies, with the prospects of a
long-term job placement now that
their course is completed.
“The course not only gave me
the confidence to help the elderly,
but made me understand Jewish
heritage and cultural values”, says
graduate Pawanpreet Kaur, who
now has secured herself a full time
job at Smorgon Family Nursing
Home.
The blended learning approach
included
classroom
based
workshops and practical work
placement in a supportive
environment with access to a
range of resources and services to
assist participants during studies.
The course is designed to explain
the ethics and culturally-sensitive
values of the Jewish community
and policies and procedures of
Jewish Care.
Five of the graduates have
already commenced work at
Jewish Care, two in residential and
three in community care.
The next intake commences on
3rd of March 2015.
For
further
information
please
contact
jewishcare@
selmarcourses.com.au
or
Education Coordinator Yael Bayer
on (03) 8517 5986.
Caption: Some of the proud graduates
of the Jewish Care/Selmar Certificate III
in Aged Care/ Home and Community
Care course with Selmar trainer Jenny
Astorino (left), Jewish Care CEO Bill
Appleby(back) and Selmar CEO Marcus
Sellen (right)
Caption: Bill Appleby, Jewish Care CEO
(left) and Marcus Sellen, Selmar CEO,
present graduate Pawanpreet Kaur with
her certificate.
March 2015
Fifty~Plus News ­­­­­5
News
VICTORIAN ORGAN DONORS SAVE EVEN MORE
LIVES IN 2014
Last year the number of Victorians who
donated their organs at death reached 117,
exceeding the previous record outcome of 110
deceased organ donors in 2013, according to
the latest national data released recently. This is
the highest ever annual outcome for any state
and territory in Australia.
DonateLife Victoria State Medical Director and
National Medical Director of the Organ and
Tissue Authority, Dr Helen Opdam commended
the generosity of organ donors and their
families.
“Their generous decisions to say ‘yes’ to
donation have transformed the lives of 352
Australians and their families – that’s 66
more people than the year before,“ she said.
“Thousands of Australians are alive today
because of the decisions families made at a time
of loss for their loved one to be an organ donor.
On behalf of the Victorian community I thank
each and every one of these families for their
generosity,” Dr Opdam said.
Dr Opdam acknowledged the important
contribution made by Victoria’s donation and
transplantation sector, “I thank our dedicated
DonateLife
Victoria
and
hospital
transplantation staff across Victoria for their
extraordinary commitment and determination
to continue to increase our donation rates in
order to save and transform more lives.”
“We cannot stop here - over 1600 Australians
are on organ transplant waiting lists at any time
and organ donation is only possible in less than
1% of all hospital deaths’, Dr Opdam said. “So
to save even more lives, I ask that we all do our
part today by discovering the facts about organ
and tissue donation, deciding and registering
that decision on the Australian Organ Donor
Register and discussing it with our loved ones,”
Dr Opdam said.
Families who have discussed and know the
donation decision of their loved ones almost
always say ‘yes’ to donation proceeding. One
organ and tissue donor can transform 10 or
more lives – and your conversation with your
family today could one day save lives. Visit www.
donatelife.gov.au for m
The No.1 Benign Tumour in Men
If you know someone or a loved
one who is suffering from poor
prostate health, you’re not
alone, it’s a common problem
and help is available.
The Prostate
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that
wraps around the urethra at the point of
the bladder. Prostate gland enlargement
can be caused by prostate cancer, but
80% of the time it is attributable to
benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).
As men age, the prostate gland increases
in size, making BPH one of the most
common age-related conditions in men.
The enlarged gland puts pressure on
the urethra, acting like a partial clamp
and thus causing numerous urinary
symptoms. BPH affects more than 50%
of Australian men in their sixties and
90% of men above the age of seventy.
How Magnus Shield® Helps
The Prostate
Magnus Shield® is an extract created
from the pollen (the male seeds that
enable flowering plants to reproduce) of
various plants, including rye grass.
Magnus Shield® has anti-inflammatory
properties which decreases swelling and
improves urine flow. Magnus Shield also
works on the urinary tract by relaxing
the smooth muscle tone of the urethra,
thus improving urine flow, increasing
bladder muscle contraction to push the
urine out, and relaxing the sphincter
muscles, which help hold the urine in
the bladder. Together, these actions
would improve the urine flow rate and
reduce the amount of urine remaining
in the bladder after urination, thereby
decreasing urinary frequency.
Research Validates Magnus
Shield’s® Effects
A number of impressive trials conducted
have concluded that Magnus Shield®
has a beneficial effect in the management
of BPH.
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled
study, 60 men suffering from BPH were
treated with Magnus Shield® or placebo
for six months. Nocturia (frequent
urination at night time) was improved or
eliminated in 60% of the patients treated
with Magnus Shield® compared to 30%
of the patients treated with placebo. In
addition, 57% of patients treated with
Magnus Shield® showed improvement
in bladder emptying compared to only
10% in the placebo group. Residual
urine volume and prostate gland size
also decreased significantly in the
patients receiving Magnus Shield®.
Safe and Non-allergenic Magnus
Shield® is safe and well tolerated. No
adverse reactions to its use have been
reported. Magnus Shield® taken orally
did not cause allergies in patients who
are usually allergic to pollen.
Testimonials
According to Mike B from NSW “9
Months ago, I have tried Magnus
Shield for prostate medication made
by Graminex Australia, I can say that it
helps me mainly in reducing my night
time urination, a year ago, I used to
wake up 6-7 times a night, and now I
only wake up once or twice, and during
last Christmas, I had 1 beer during
the party, and I got up 3 times. Thank
You for Graminex and I definitely will
recommend this product” - from Johns
Park, NSW
David Norton from Victoria Market
Pharmacy said that at Victoria Market
Pharmacy, we have been selling Magnus
Shield for five and a half years, many
of own customers are regulars who
have benefited greatly, especially in
the reduction of night time urinary
frequency.
Summary
Magnus Shield® is available direct
from Graminex Australia Pty Ltd or
at your good pharmacies or health
food shops. For more information
about nearby stockists, please call
1300 360 289.
Visit
our
website
at
www.
magnusprime.com or call 1300 360
289 (Toll Free) for more information.
Our boutique
retirement
village has it all!
• Spacious Apartments
• State of the art security
system & 24 hour
emergency call service
• Short walk to the
railway station, shops,
cafes or even The Glen
Shopping Centre
• Adjoining beautiful
parklands
AVAILABLE NOW
EXTRA LARGE
1 BED APARTMENT
• $290,000
Grace Gardens Retirement Village
1 Grace Street, Glen Waverley
Ph for appointment 9562 5814 or Mobile 0412 337 243
DanceRetro – Do you love Retro Music and dancing to music of the 70s,
80s, 90s and today? Join us for fun sessions on Tuesdays at The Exclusive
Beats Boutique Studio, 192 Canterbury Rd, Canterbury 6.30-7.30pm or
Wednesdays at The Breslin Gallery, 254 Neerim Rd, Carnegie 7.45-8.45pm.
No need for a partner. Dance for the health of it!!
Contact Kate 0417 545 024 www.danceretro.com
Enlarged Prostate?
Call 1300 360 289
Do you suffer from these
symptoms?
• Frequent urination
• Painful urination
• A weak stream
• Constantly feeling that your bladder
isn’t empty
Seek advice from your doctor if you suffer from these symptoms.
1 in 3 Australian men above 50 will suffer
from an enlarged prostate.
Magnus ShieldTM contains CernitinTM, the
Swedish pollen extract proven in extensive
clinical trials to support a healthy prostate and
treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
“Thank you for sending out Magnus Shield. I really
believe they have been a great benefit to me.
Before Magnus Shield, I was going to the toilet 3
or 4 times a night, now using Magnus Shield I’ve
been going once a night, sometimes not at all.” John W, Benalla VIC, 18 Jan 2010.
“I found these tablets Magnus Shield from a
magazine. I found it helps me to empty my
bladder in night time, relief the pain while passing
water. It really works for me. I’m feeling better
now. Thank You.” Paul E, Ormond VIC, 22 April,
2008.
Visit www.magnusprime.com for clinical studies.
Now Available
Magnus ShieldTM is available at good pharmacies
and health food stores. Ask your pharmacist or
call 1300 360 289 for more information, if our lines
are busy please call again.
Featured Stockists in Victoria
Victoria Market Pharmacy
523 Elizabeth St, Melbourne 3000
Evelyn Faye Nutrition
Lower Mezzanine, 360 Bourke St, Melb 3000
Pyman Pharmacy
84 Wellington Pde, East Melbourne 3002
The Second Blessing Health & Nutrition Product
73 Anderson St., Yarraville 3013
Greenbrook Guardian Pharmacy
Shop 6 Greenbrook Shopping Centre,
53 McDonalds Rd, Epping 3076
Harp Village Pharmacy
637 High St, Kew East 3102
Macedon Plaza Pharmacy
Shop 14 Macedon Plaza,
325 Manningham Rd, Lower Templestowe 3107
M A Johnson Pharmacy
1 Macedon Rd, Lower Templestowe 3107
Chirnside Park Health Shop
Shop 501A, Chirnside Park Shopping Centre
Chirnside Park 3116
Sophie Tanaghow Pharmacy
283 Waverley Rd, Malvern East 3145
National Pharmacy
190 Jells Rd, Wheelers Hill 3150
Mountain Gate Health Foods
Shop 16, Mountain Gate Shopping Centre
Ferntree Gully Rd, Ferntree Gully 3156
Glo Health
358 Glenhuntly Road, Elsternwick 3185
Customer hotline:
1300 360 289
Approval No: CHC36636-04/07
Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist seek the advice of a healthcare practitioner.
AUST L: 123642
­­­­­6
Fifty~Plus News
March 2015
News
VIEW Clubs of Australia
Around the Clubs with Carole Smith
NEW CLUB
Last month a group of ladies had an interesting meeting
and voted to form a new club to be named “The Village
VIEW Morning Tea club.” A second meeting will be held
on Tuesday March 10 at the Dingley Community Centre,
Marcus Road, Dingley at 10am. If you live in the Dingley
area and are looking to become involved in your local
community and develop warm friendships, you will be
made to be most welcome. Contact Mary 87746133 or
Shirley 95801186.
BENDIGO
After a fun-filled 2014 our club recommenced this
year’s first meeting holding our AGM where our 2015
committee was successfully formed with some of our
newer members taking on positions. Our Area’s Zone
Conference will be held at The Bendigo Club on May 2
at 9.30am. A great day has been planned with group
discussions with a speaker from The Smith Family.
Lunch will be served, followed by a fashion parade of
Blue Illusion clothing. The next meeting of our club will
be held on the 4th Wednesday of the month also at The
Bendigo Club, Park Street, Strathdale at 6.30pm for 7pm
commencement. For details phone Jenny 0448261143.
BERWICK EVENING
Our club is calling on women who are community minded
and would like to join a happy group of women for fun,
fellowship and fundraising. We meet the third Monday of
the month at The Central Hotel in Beaconsfield at 7pm.
Phone Kaye 97697762 for further details.
BERWICK SPRINGS
We recently held our annual Chicken and Champagne
lunch where funds were raised on the day going
toward our Learning for Life students. We meet on the
third Monday of each month followed by a two-course
luncheon. The next general meeting is on March 16 at
Café Luca, 264 Clyde Road, Berwick commencing at
11.30am. New members are always welcome. Phone
Patricia on 87865557 for further details.
CRANBOURNE
To date, we have enjoyed two coffee mornings, and have
trips already planned to Cloudhill gardens at Olinda,
a coach trip to Philip Island and a visit to Block Arcade
including a visit to the Hopetoun Tea Rooms. One very
important function coming up is on the 13th March is the
International Women’s Day Luncheon at Amstel Golf Club,
one of many luncheons held at various venues around
Melbourne. Our guest speaker will be Rose Batty. Our
next meeting will be will be held at the Amstel Golf Club,
Sladen Street, Cranbourne on March 4. For details phone
Lorraine 97828797 or Jean 59969618. Big congratulations
go to our member Rita who became Senior Citizen of the
Year for the City of Casey. Well done Rita – we are very proud
of you.
DANDENONG
We are celebrating our 29th birthday this month. We have
planned a Bavarian Night and will be entertained by The
Austrian Dancing Group. Our speaker will be Don Cross
who will talk about the Victoria Cross. We meet on the
first Tuesday of every month at the Dandenong RSL, 4450 Clow Street, Dandenong at 7pm. For further details
contact 97951222.
RINGWOOD
Our next meeting will be on March 11 at 11am at Natalie’s,
669 Maroondah Highway, Mitcham, followed by a twocourse lunch with tea or coffee. Our speaker will be a
representative from Ambulance Victoria. VIEW supports
the Learning for Life program. Contact Glenys 97331888.
TEMPLESTOWE
Wednesday March 4 is our next meeting at our new venue
“The Yarra Valley Country Club”, 9 Templestowe Road,
Bulleen 6.45pm for 7pm commencement. This month we
are celebrating our 27th birthday. We welcome new ladies
to join us. Contact Jan on 98468378.
MORNINGTON
Our next luncheon meeting is on the Friday 27th March.
Our first meeting for the year was our Annual General
Meeting where a 2015 committee was formed, followed
by the presentation of badges of office. (see photo) We
are looking forward to a variety of planned activities
throughout the coming year. For details on our club
phone Pam 59753846.
Material to reach me by the second Thursday of the
month, for publishing in the following month’s column.
Smithsainter10@hotmail.com
The Waverley Retirement Activities Group
(WRAG) began in April 1974 and is the ‘umbrella
organisation’ for over 30 leisure activity Groups for the
‘over 50s’ living in and around the Monash / Glen Waverley
area in Melbourne. We are a non-profit, community-based
organisation with over 350 members run by volunteers
with support from the Monash City Council. Our activity
Groups meet in Council halls, public places and private
homes. We assist in you meeting new friends and making
retirement more enjoyable.
Recent Activities
February Golden Club Lunch:
Thursday February 12 saw some 20 WRAG members
partake in a most enjoyable lunch at the Mulgrave
country club. The reason they were there? They are all
members of a special group i.e. they have been married
for fifty years or more.
Bill L. has been the convenor for the group for some
time and he can be reached on 9795 0078. (The Golden
Club is open to members who are or were married to
the one person for 50 years or more. If you are eligible
please contact the Convenor. You are assured of a warm
welcome. We meet for lunch 4 times a year (Feb, May, Aug
& Nov) on the second Thursday of the month at 12 noon.)
Caravan and Cabin Group:
On Monday February 9 the six monthly picnic of the
Caravan and Cabin Group was held at Jells Park. Apart
from enjoying the day with friends, the purpose is to
‘map out’ the next 6 monthly trip. The consensus this
time was to stay at the Mornington Gardens Holiday
Village from April 8 to April 15. The
convenor for this group is Morrie
W. who can be reached on 95600794 We enjoy 2 holidays a year
in autumn and spring, picnics and
reunion evenings. Each holiday is
usually 7 nights away and locations
are usually within a 4 hour drive of
Melbourne. This is one of the most
popular activity groups. You need
to book early for the holidays as they
fill fast. New members are welcome.
(You do not have to own a caravan as most parks have
cabins.)
Some routine WRAG Inc.
activities:
Badminton: (Thursday) Mulgrave Badminton Club
Convenor: Liz 9795-8843 We play from 10am to 12noon
every Thursday at the Southern Community Centre,
Rupert Drive, Mulgrave. (Melways 80 F5) and enjoy a
“cuppa” and chat afterwards. This group is for more senior
social players. New members welcome.
Card Making: Convenor: Margaret 9561-8991 We make
greeting cards and meet at 12noon on the third Friday
of every second month in member’s homes,i.e. January,
March, May, July, September & November. BYO paper and
tools.
Cards – Samba: Convenor: Gwen 9560-2128 We play in
member’s homes at 7.15pm on the second Wednesday of
the month. A light supper is provided by the host. New
members are welcome.
CONTACT US
Post: WRAG, PO Box 1015, GLEN WAVERLEY, Vic 3150
Please contact any of our committee members if you live
in the Monash/Glen Waverley area and wish to find out
more about the satisfaction of being a member of WRAG.
Members of local senior citizens clubs and social clubs
most welcome. Membership is only $10 per year and
enables you to participate in all WRAG Activity Groups.
More details are available on our updated website:
http://www.wrag.org.au/
President: Helmut M Ph. 9574-8090
Secretary: Bill S Ph. 9560-6350
New Members Officer: Erica J Ph. 9878-1627
Speaker Organiser: Morrie W: 9560-0794
Committee member: Lawrie S: 9807-3995
March 2015
Fifty~Plus News ­­­­­7
News
Desperately Seeking Uncle Stan
Genealogy
It was almost as if this Uncle’s ghost
did not want to reveal his history to
me: the doors that I tried to prise open,
seemed bolted. After many years of
research I had only three documents –
his certified English death certificate,
the probate of his will and a photo of his
grave site. In total, it amounted to just
three pages!
So in frustration, I laid Uncle to rest in a
yellow manila folder marked:
Schlosser, Stanisław Galicia,
Austria-Hungary 31.01.1908 –
Yorkshire, England 17.09.1973
The Uncle in question was my father’s
brother-in-law. At Hitler’s invasion of
Poland on 1 September, 1939, both he
and my father were conscripted into
the Polish Army. Unlike my father, who
was captured by the Nazis and became
a Prisoner of War (POW), Uncle faced
a different fate. When Stalin invaded
eastern Poland on 17 September, 1939,
it became clear to the Polish leadership
that the situation was grim. Stalin and
Hitler had agreed to divide Poland
between them, so the Poles were now
fighting on two fronts - against Hitler
and against Stalin.
Polish land and air forces east of the
river Bug were commanded to retreat.
This involved approximately 100,000
military personnel. According to family
stories, my Uncle was one of them. They
were transported by truck to ports on
the Black Sea from which they sailed to
the Middle East. There the Polish forces
reformed under Allied command.
Last year I dug up Uncle’s folder out of
a niggling curiosity. His death certificate
had described him as a retired radio
mechanic. According to family folklore
he had been a driver during WWII. I was
desperate to prove our family’s oral
history.
When I joined the Melbourne based
Museum and Polish Archives (MAPA), I
was asked whether the UK Ministry of
Defence had Uncle’s file. Within a month
of writing away to Middlesex, I had
confirmation that indeed they had and,
after forwarding the Ministry a cheque, I
received a wad of documents on Uncle’s
military service.
These indicated that Stanisław
Schlosser was born in the eastern
European city of Lemberg, then in
Austria-Hungary. It became Lwow,
Poland again, between the World
Wars, and is now L’viv, Ukraine. From
1 September until 20 September,
1939 Uncle served as a Corporal in the
Polish 10th Artillery Battalion. On 20
September his battalion was evacuated
via Hungary to Beirut, Lebanon, where
he served under French command. He
made his way to England and on 29
December, 1940, joined Polish Forces
under British Command. After the 1944
D-Day landing in Normandy, and as
MISSED OUT ON THE FAT DUCK?
HAVE A SECOND QUACK.
Anglicare Victoria launched
Second Quack, a foodie fundraiser,
the same day that The Fat Duck one of only four restaurants in the
UK to hold three Michelin stars,
opened at Crown. Second Quack
encourages Victorians to invite
one or more people to dine at their
home on Saturday, March 21st and
for them to raise a minimum $525
for Anglicare Victoria’s homeless
program.
Paul McDonald, the organisation’s
CEO, said: “We’re not known for
our culinary excellence but we
do make 25,000 breakfasts each
year for the homeless. Today we
launch Second Quack, the perfect
antidote to those foodies who
missed their chance to dine at The
Fat Duck.”
More than 89,000 people were
prepared to part with $525 each
for the chance to experience
the iconic cooking of Heston
Blumenthal but only 14,000 were
rewarded with that chance in the
global ballot.
Mr McDonald said: “The idea
behind Second Quack is simple. It
is about bringing people together
to enjoy a meal while raising
money to support Victoria’s most
vulnerable.”
There is no set way to taking
part in Second Quack. A host can
organise a street party of 525
people, an intimate gathering
for two or a boisterous evening
with ten people – as long as
each hosted dinner raises $525
for Anglicare Victoria’s Homeless
Services program. Restaurants and
pubs are also taking part in the
Second Quack, hosting meals for
diners on Wednesday 18 March.
Beyond the initial $525, the
highest fundraiser will be in the
running to win a table for 10 at
Gastronomique, valued at $3,000.
Gastronomique is a fundraising
feast for the senses supported
by some of Victoria’s finest
restaurants. In 2014 Pei Modern,
Estelle, Cumulus Inc., Bottega and
Chateau Yering were involved.
Anglicare Victoria has been
behind Gastronomique (formerly
known as Dinner with the Angels)
for 11 years.
Fact File - Second Quack
Date: Wednesday 18 & Saturday
21 March 2015
Venue: At your home or a
restaurant or pub
Cost: $525 per dinner
Public enquiries: http://www.
secondquack.org.au
Phone: (03) 9412 6157
part of the 1st Polish Armoured Division,
Uncle saw action at Falaise in France,
Ypres in Belgium and on the river Maas
in Holland. He was promoted to the
rank of Staff Sergeant.
After so many years hidden in that
yellow manila folder, my uncle ‘Stan’ was
finally coming back to life!
Importantly, I was able to confirm
the family folklore. My uncle’s trade on
enlistment was driver. One document
explained how he came to have this
role: he was in fact, an auto mechanic.
Another document asked the
question: ‘If you had the opportunity to
retrain, what civilian career would you
choose? Uncle wrote: radio mechanic.
So now I could put one chapter of my
uncle ‘Stan’s’ life to rest.
There are now new mysteries to solve:
for example, what became of the Polish
Army Medal, British and French Star and
Defence Medal he was awarded?
I now have many new leads, so my
uncle ‘Stan’ won’t be relegated to that
old, fading yellow manila folder for
many years to come!
Maria Irene Picyk©
At the Genealogical Society of Victoria we
help members plan their family history search.
This month’s author is a member of the GSV
Writer’s Discussion Circle. See www.gsv.org.au
for more information, or email gsv@gsv.org.au
or phone (03) 9662 4455 for information about
the Society.
FREE SOCIAL DANCE CLASSES ARE HELD
EVERY THURSDAYS (EX SCHOOL HOLIDAYS)
@ GLEN HALL, Cnr. GLENGALA RD. & SIMMIE
ST. SUNSHINE,
MELWAYS 40 –D 2.
7-30 TO 8-30 PM. OR RING NOEL 9331 6580
ALL HOURS.
START BACK DATE:THURS. 5th. FEB. 2015
@7-30 pm
LEARN FROM THE FORMER VICTORIAN,
AUSTRALASIAN & COMMONWEALTH
CHAMPIONS
FOR GROUPS (MINIMUM 20 HEAD) THAT
WOULD LIKE FREE TUITION IN A SPECIFIC
STYLE PLEASE EMAIL YOUR DETAILS,
CLASSES WOULD BE FROM 8-30 PM TO 9-30
PM @ THE ABOVE VENUE.
Computer Tips
with Barry Coaker
Cookies - Yes or No?
Cookies can be spyware. Some cookies are
dangerous. Cookies invade your privacy.
Those are the statements that circulate
amongst the people who don’t understand
them or even want to stamp them out
What is a cookie?
A cookie is a tiny record consisting of a
domain that set the cookie, an expiration
date and the name/value pair. The value
of the name/value pair could contain any
type of text information. Cookies are highly
restricted by the browser and can’t be made
to compromise your computer. Cookies are
simply text and nothing more. They can’t
execute like a program, neither can they be
used to spy on you.
Do cookies invade your privacy without
your consent?
It’s true that cookies can possibly contain
private
information.
However
the
information can only be put into a cookie if
YOU intentionally enter (type in with your
keyboard) your private information into a
Web site via a Web form and the Web form
sets a cookie with your information tied to it.
Even still, no other Web site is going to be able
to get to that information other than the site
that set it, the very site you submitted that
information to. Browsers are very restrictive
and do NOT allow other sites to read cookies
not belonging to that specific Web site. If you
trusted that Web site, such as your Bank and
the organisation behind it with your personal
information, the cookie is no more dangerous
than your trusted Web site.
Cookies are very useful.
Cookies are very helpful. They enable you
to have automatic login to most online
forums. They help you recall user names and
passwords for logging into various other
places that utilise user names and passwords.
If you delete all your cookies you will notice
when trying to access certain websites that
you have joined or belong to then it will
be necessary and annoying to enter your
username and password each time.
As a general rule allow those cookies onto
your computer. They are your friend—not
your enemy.
­­­­­8
News
Fifty~Plus News
March 2015
Age Management Toolkit for Employers
The National Stroke Foundation’s
StrokeSafe Ambassadors deliver
professional and engaging talks
about stroke to help all Australians
understand how they can reduce
their risk of having a stroke and
also recognise a stroke.
This talk is free and available
for any groups interested in
becoming StrokeSafe. As discussed, we recommend
you book your StrokeSafe talk in
before June 30 this year to ensure
we can provide a speaker. The talk
takes approximately 30 minutes
and covers:
What stroke is
How to prevent stroke
How to recognise the signs of
stroke
What to do if someone is having a
stroke.
If you and your group is interested
in becoming StrokeSafe, you can
fill out the online form at www.
strokefoundation.com.au/invitea-speaker-form or call 03 9918
7206. National Seniors Productive Ageing Centre is pleased to announce the launch of our Age
Management Toolkit for Employers. Governments are increasingly encouraging greater
involvement of mature age people in the labour force to ensure the skills and experience of
this cohort are fully utilised and to assist the economy to adapt to demographic change. For
employers, implementation of strategies that attract and retain mature age workers can ensure
the utilisation of valuable skills and experience of the over 50s. The Toolkit provides a ‘one-stopshop’ of comprehensive and practical information for employers, supervisors, managers and
HR professionals to successfully initiate, implement and evaluate effective age management
strategies. Importantly, the Toolkit is designed for employers to tailor the best age management
initiatives according to unique strategic goals, size of organisation and workforce age profile.
The Age Management Toolkit also provides links to reputable resources, guidelines and good
practice examples sourced from a wide range of leading national and international agencies
and expert bodies specialising in the fields of employment, management and workforce ageing.
Overall, the Toolkit assists employers to break down barriers and strengthen enablers to mature
age employment in a proactive and engaging way.
To access the Toolkit, please check out the website: http://www.nationalseniors.com.au/amt
If you have any enquiries please contact the National Seniors Productive Ageing Centre on
(03) 9650 6144 or email info@productiveageing.com.au.
Contact U3A for details of your nearest Club.
Postal Address 8/341 Queen Street Melbourne
PH: (03) 9670 3659
Email: info@u3avictoria.com.au Web: u3avictoria.com.au
Many Happy Returns to U3A Moreland. After a three
year interlude, a local committee is working hard to
re-establish U3A activities throughout the Moreland
municipality. Committee members have been in
discussion with Council Officers, Neighbourhood House
Coordinators, and local Librarians in an endeavour
to secure volunteer class leaders and venues across
Brunswick, Coburg and Glenroy. When this U3A is
welcomed at the quarterly Network Victoria Council
meeting on 18 March, it will be the 107th U3A formation
in Victoria. Its first classes will start after Easter. For more
information contact Jan Angus on 0406-031-057 or Harry
Dobson on 0413-079-394.
U3A Horsham have been touring the eastern Grampians
reservoir system. Led by knowledgeable Bob Mc Ilvena,
the group followed in the footsteps of explorer Major
Mitchell, first visiting the Horsham Livestock Exchange,
next stop was Green Lake the first of the 12 man-made
lakes in the area. Lake Green was built in 1933 from a
series of swamps. The tour included the Drung Soldier
Settlement area where 28 World War II soldiers took up
land after they were de-mobbed in 1945. Dairying was
the main farming practised. Salt pans formed by seepage
from the lakes provide a stopping off point for migratory
birds to de-louse their feathers.
U3A Lakes Entrance has
added Playalong to their
musical offerings. Using a
mixture of instruments –
guitars, piano accordion,
flute, banjo, harp, recorder,
piano, clappers as well as
voices, the group now has
a repertoire of 35 songs. All
participants reap a benefit
from making music together.
U3A Kilmore & District members will be getting to
know their bodies at the owners and trainers room at
Kilmore racecourse and/or researching People from
History. All members of the class are encouraged to
research a designated person e.g., Winston Churchill one
week, perhaps Elvis Presley the next.
U3A Benalla has been clever to secure a community
grant to enable them to offer an e-reader book group.
While U3A Latrobe valley is running their own Open
Garden scheme. The garden group exchanges plants,
produce and ideas as well as setting out “convoy-style” to
visit as many gardens as possible. Members of U3A Bright
are cycling along the old rails lines in the Buckland and
Wandiligong valleys whilst others tap dance to success
or discover “fun and friendship” playing Life Ball games at
Mount Beauty. At U3A Kyneton photography students
are getting the most out of their cameras, investing in
the Stock Market or metaphorically digging up their
ancestors in the Genealogy class. Lucky horseshows may
abound at U3A Upper Yarra where blacksmithing is
part of the curriculum. Completing projects that require
a heavy hammer and a lot of elbow grease, students
will produce tongs, hooks, pokers, fire rakes and bottle
openers.
Whilst U3A Middleborough students have been visiting
Fountain’s Abbey and Ripon, U3A Werribee have rambled
through history from Roman times via the Anglo-Saxon
and Viking raids to life in the middle Ages. Other students
have enjoyed “Music You Like to Hear” experiencing
overtures, interludes, intermezzos and waltzes as well
as macabre music by Grieg, Dvorak, Berlioz as well
as movie sound tracks. Wyndham Council has been
especially helpful, enabling a bus to provide door to
door pick up so that the new Hogan’s Road venue could
be used. In line with U3As role as the major provider of
technology skills for Seniors, Werribee students are able
to access a comprehensive range of computer courses.
Using Word, Excel, Power Point as well as mastering their
iPad or Tablet. This year’s group will learn how to make
and upload their own YouTube videos. At U3A Ballarat
students are introduced to Blogging and at U3A Kilmore,
Technology for Dummies is popular. Whilst other Kilmore
members study Women’s Business or Get to Know Your
Body. In 2015 U3A Ballarat members have the chance
to help secure a more peaceful world by participating
in the world wide Weave Your Own Stars project. Other
Ballarat students are investigating the contribution of
the Cornish people to the city’s heritage.
U3A Croydon Bushwalkers
U3A Croydon is very fortunate
to have the Dandenong Ranges
close by and the bushwalking
group makes good use of the
many tracks that criss-cross
the hills. Spoilt for choice
there is also the Christmas Hills
area close by; the Warburton Trail; Lysterfield Park and
Warramate Hills.
U3A involvement in ASPIRING research project.
A study of the Ageing Services and Supports in Rural
Environments, (ASPIRE) is currently being conducted by
La Trobe University and the University of Queensland,
with the support of both State Governments. They are
investigating the relationship between rural living and
wellness, to determine what services and supports
older people need in their country towns. Because the
study is investigating the links between the provision
of community services and the degree of wellbeing for
those over 65, both U3A Network Vic and U3A Network
Queensland see this research as an opportunity to
promote the U3A movement. Participation in such
research ventures highlights the important contribution
that U3As make to community wellbeing and their value
as a resource for government when communicating
with seniors. U3As involved in the three selected
research areas are U3A Dunmunkle (Minyip, Murtoa and
Rupanyup), U3A Bright and U3A Alpine (Mt Beauty), and
U3A Yarram. For more information about this project
contact Ms Turi Berg on 1800-664-731.
Asia Pacific U3A Conference in Kathmandu, Nepal in
October 2014
Geoff Steventon, U3A Croydon President, was one of 250
delegates to attend the Asia Pacific U3A Conference in
Kathmandu, Nepal in October 2014. The theme of the
conference was “Active Life for Social Change: Promoting
Multi-generational Learning and Sharing
Patal Hiun Chuli 6441m a Nepalese giant
News
March 2015
Fifty~Plus News ­­­­­9
Managing
Money
The Four Aged Care Fundamentals
with Thabojan Rasiah
Private client advisor Shadforth Financial Group.
With the ever-changing landscape in the area of Aged
Care, it is important to remember the key areas on
which to focus when structuring your financial affairs.
In recent times there has been an evolution in the
way the Aged Care system is structured. This has only
increased complexity and made it harder to understand.
However, the four fundamentals to be considered remain
constant. These four fundamentals need to be the focus
of making any financial decisions in relation to aged care
planning. They are all linked and impact on each other, so
all needed to be considered in conjunction.
The first fundamental is aged care fees. Without going
into the detail of the different kinds of fees and how they
are calculated, we need to manage the cost of aged care.
There are a number of strategies that can be used to
manage costs, so they should be explored. Not only for
2015 BLACK HARMONY
GATHERING ANNOUNCED
Gather in harmony on the banks of the Yarra
The 2015 Black Harmony Gathering will present
an exciting program of live music, dance, food and
activities on Sunday 15 March, 1pm-5.30pm, FREE at
Fairfield Amphitheatre that will bring together the
diverse local Indigenous and newly arrived cultures
in Victoria. The day will feature: one of BHG founders
Kutcha Edwards and Friends, the sensational Alt-Latin
band Funkalleros, eminent guitarist and singer Dave
Arden, The Burundian Drummers, Sounds of Polynesia,
young soul star Lawrence Austin Jnr, a special Koorie
BBQ featuring kangaroo and emu from Warburton,
dance workshops, kids’ activities and more.
The first gathering in 2004 held in Melbourne’s
northern suburbs saw a small group of local Koories,
those entering aged care, but also for those already in the
system.
The second fundamental is social security. When
structuring the financial position of a resident, it is
important to factor in the impact on social security
benefits. Whether it is Centrelink or DVA, the wrong
financial structure can lead to a negative impact. This in
turn can affect the ability to pay for aged care fees and
cover other personal expenses.
The third fundamental is tax. Holding assets in various
structures will lead to different tax outcomes. It is
important to ensure that both annual income tax and
future capital gains tax is considered. Managing annual
income tax will provide flexibility in cash flow. Managing
future capital gains tax will lead to a greater estate that
can be passed to beneficiaries.
South Africans and Somalis come together at a
neighbourhood BBQ to share ideas about how to help
each other overcome discrimination. Over time the
BBQ has evolved to become a staple gathering for the
community and a popular and important feature of
Melbourne’s cultural calendar, showcasing hundreds of
established and emerging Indigenous and multicultural
artists and craftspeople. Black Harmony Gathering
promotes reconciliation, diversity, social inclusion,
respect and the breaking down of racism.
Now in its 12th year, the annual Black Harmony
Gathering continues to coincide with Victoria’s
Cultural Diversity Week celebrations and embraces
the principals of reconciliation with a commitment
to respect the beliefs and customs of Australia’s First
People and newly arrived cultures.
Celebrate Victoria’s Indigenous and newly arrived
exceptional talent on this significant day with a picnic
rug, cushion and your dancing shoes for a fun afternoon
This brings us to the fourth fundamental, which is cash
flow. Without sufficient cash flow, one cannot cover the
costs of aged care and personal expenses. This is a critical
factor that is often overlooked and if not addressed from
the beginning, can force residents into unfortunate
positions. This can include being forced to sell assets that
would ideally be retained.
So they are the four fundamentals in planning for
aged care. None can be ignored, nor should any be
considered in isolation. They all impact each other and
are inextricably linked. Considering all four fundamentals
will lead to a successful aged care strategy outcome.
Thabojan Rasiah is a highly regarded financial adviser and
commentator. If you would like to clarify your position, get a second
opinion or review opportunities available to you, we offer an obligation
free private discussion. To arrange, contact Thabojan on 03 9649 2400
or send an email to thabojan.rasiah@sfg.com.au
on the gorgeous
banks of the Yarra!
BLACK HARMONY
GATHERING
Sunday 15 March
1pm–5:30pm
F a i r f i e l d
Amphitheatre,
Fairfield Park Drive
(off
Heidelberg
Road), Fairfield
FREE
Walk or ride the Main Yarra Trail or catch the train to
Fairfield Station, just 16min from Melbourne’s CBD.
BLACK HARMONY FORUM
Friday 20 March, 6.30pm–8.30pm
Reading Room, Fitzroy Town Hall, 201 Napier St, Fitzroy
FREE
Can you help these researchers find
the answers?
Together with an enthusiastic research team,
Associate Professor Allison McKendrick from the
Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences
at The University of Melbourne is trying to
improve understanding of how healthy normal
ageing affects vision, how older adults use
vision in natural environments, and how vision is
affected in common eye-diseases in the elderly.
Current clinical tests for vision (for example,
the familiar letter chart) only test a subset of
visual functions and do not fully represent the
ways that vision is typically used.
The research team also studies other key
aspects of visual processing, such as how we
perceive objects and motion in both central
and peripheral vision, as well as how visual
information is combined with information from
other senses like hearing.
Through the study of visual processing, the
researchers hope to gain insight to how the
brain compensates for reduced visual clarity
with age, with the end goal of improving clinical
tests for age-related eye diseases.
A particular interest of the group is the agerelated eye-disease glaucoma. Glaucoma is a
progressive disease of the optic-nerve (which
sends visual signals from the eye to the brain)
and increases markedly in prevalence over the
age of 60.
These projects are funded by government
(Australian Research Council) and industrial
grants to the research team. We are always
looking for healthy older adults to participate in
our research. More information can be obtained
by contacting the researchers on 9035 9979, or
email allisonm@unimelb.edu.au.
Volunteers Wanted
Vision Research Project
People with normal, healthy vision
between the ages of 60-77 are wanted for
a research study assessing changes in
vision with ageing. Up to three test
sessions of approximately 2 hours are
involved which will include an abbreviated
eye examination and computer based
testing of vision.
Volunteers will be reimbursed $20 per
session to assist with any out-of-pocket
expenses incurred in attending.
Enquiries:
Contact the study team on 03 9035 9979
or email: A/Prof Allison McKendrick
allisonm@unimelb.edu.au
Department of Optometry & Vision Sciences,
The University of Melbourne.
HREC 1441571.2
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www.masterlifts.com.au
­­­­­10
Fifty~Plus News
James Boon: Keeping
an Eye on his Diabetes
James Boon knows all about diabetes and
the damage this disease can cause the body,
including the eyes. He is just one of over 1.1
million Australians diagnosed with diabetes
(1) and all of them are at risk of losing their
sight due to diabetic retinopathy, a common
complication of diabetes and the leading cause
of blindness among working age adults in
Australia.
The retired police officer and keen
motorcyclist from Sydney was diagnosed with
type 2 diabetes over 10 years ago. These days
he says managing his diabetes, which includes
a healthy lifestyle and regular eye tests, is vital
to maintaining good health and sight.
“I follow a healthy diet, I try to exercise regularly
and I am absolutely committed to having
regular eye tests – to me that’s most important,
and it’s so easy to do.”
Julie Heraghty, CEO of the Macular Disease
Foundation Australia, says early diagnosis,
management and treatment of diabetic eye
disease can prevent over 90 per cent of vision
loss. “There may be no symptoms initially, and
damage can occur before there is any change
to vision. Sometimes disease progression can
be rapid, so early diagnosis and, if necessary,
treatment, is critical to saving sight.”
Importantly, Julie said, just one eye test is
News
not enough. “Many people with diabetes have
their eyes tested by an eye health professional
once, maybe twice and get the all clear. Then
they think they are in ‘safe mode’ – they don’t
think they are at risk of diabetic retinopathy any
more. But in fact, their eyes are in ‘unsafe mode’
because for every year a person has diabetes, the
greater their risk of developing this blinding eye
disease. I cannot stress enough how important
it is for all those living with diabetes to have a
comprehensive eye examination at least every
two years, or more often if recommended, and
to follow your optometrist or ophthalmologist’s
advice to reduce the risks of vision loss from
diabetic eye disease,” says Julie.
A free information booklet, ‘Diabetic Eye
Disease’, is available from the Macular Disease
Foundation Australia. Visit www.mdfoundation.
com.au or freecall 1800 111 709.
Three simple rules to follow:
If you have diabetes, visit an optometrist or
ophthalmologist at least every two years for a
comprehensive eye exam.
If you have existing diabetic eye disease, more
regular checks may be required, even if vision
appears to be perfect.
Be guided by your optometrist or
ophthalmologist and do not cancel or delay
appointments.
References:1.diabetesaustralia.com.au/UnderstandingDiabetes
Women in Super Mother’s Day Classic
(Sunday May 10, 2015)
It’s pink, it’s fun, it’s helping make breast cancer
history: register now for Australia’s largest
Mother’s Day event
The Mother’s Day Classic fun run/walk has
become a calendar must-do for thousands of
families, friends and community groups, who
revel in a festive event that supports a serious
cause - funding research into breast cancer,
Australia’s most common female cancer.
Registrations are open now, to take part in a
national event that last year involved 130,000
Australians in 98 locations, including 87 regional
towns and every capital city.
“It doesn’t matter how you walk or run, or even
how fast, it just matters why,” Ms Davidson said.
“Money raised supports research into new
treatments, diagnostic techniques and of course
the end goal of finding a cure. The more we
raise, the faster a cure can be found,” she said.
Bring the family, set a fitness goal, the 2015
Mother’s Day Classic provides discounted family
tickets nationally and is planning more family
activities and entertainment at the large events.
“Each year we see growing numbers of fitness
groups, and groups of friends, who are using
the event to motivate themselves and their
friends to achieve health and fitness goals,” Ms
Davidson said. We think that’s fantastic and
we’d encourage everyone to set a fitness goal,
gather your friends and register for Mother’s
Day Classic 2015.”
To register, fundraise or volunteer go to www.
mothersdayclassic.com.au
For more information regarding the National
Breast Cancer Foundation and its work, visit
www.nbcf.org.au
March 2015
Be Brave & Shave
this March!
The Leukaemia Foundation’s
World’s Greatest Shave is back
March 12-15 and we’re asking you
to take part.
Decide to shave or colour your
hair, then ask family and friends to
sponsor you. Money raised will be
used to find life-saving treatments
and provide free, emotional
and practical support such as
accommodation for regional
families who need to move to the
city for treatment.
Every day, 31 Australians will be
given the devastating news that
they have leukaemia, lymphoma
or myeloma. Do something
amazing to help beat blood
cancer.
Be brave and shave. Sign up now
at www.worldsgreatestshave.com
or call 1800 500 088.
70 and 74-year-olds added
to National Bowel Cancer
Screening Program
From this year, 70 and 74-year- two years. Research** shows that
olds will receive at-home bowel
cancer screening kits as the
National Bowel Cancer Screening
Program continues to widen
screening to include additional
age groups.
The risk of bowel cancer
increases with age from 50 and
is asymptomatic in its early
stages. Bowel cancer is the most
common cancer affecting both
men and women but has a very
high cure rate if found early.
Approximately 80 Australians
die each week from bowel
cancer.*
Minister for Health Jill Hennessy
encourages
Victorians
to
participate in the National Bowel
Cancer Screening Program. “Early
detection can be key to surviving
cancer and I encourage everyone
who receives the free kit to
complete the test. It’s simple, it
can be done in the privacy of your
own home, and it’s so important.
It could save your life.”
The faecal occult blood test
(FOBT) looks for the early signs
of bowel cancer and involves
taking a minuscule sample from
two separate bowel motions
using a test kit. Samples are then
sent to a laboratory for testing.
Participants with positive results
are advised to discuss their result
with their doctor and undergo
further testing.
Cancer
Council
Victoria
Screening Manager Kate Broun
said that while currently the
National Bowel Cancer Screening
Program is restricted to certain
age groups, the Cancer Council
recommends more frequent
screening.
“Cancer Council Victoria is
invested in not only making 70
and 74 year-olds aware of the
program’s extension and its
significance, but also in reminding
all Australians between the ages
of 50 and 74 that they should be
screening for bowel cancer every
biennial screening can save up
to 500 lives a year and will take
pressure off the health system.”
FOBTs are designed for women
and men aged 50 and over
without symptoms or a strong
family history of bowel cancer.
Those with a strong family history
of bowel cancer or any symptoms
should see a doctor. FOBTs can
be purchased from the Cancer
Council online or by calling 13 11
20.
Frank Clarke, 77, of Vermont
South says he has the FOBT kit
to thank for the early detection
of his bowel cancer in 2007. “I
had absolutely no symptoms
when I was diagnosed and I
was lucky the kit picked up my
cancer early. I got the ‘all clear’
from my specialist in August and
now the only reminder I have of
my battle with bowel cancer is
my abdominal scar. “I plead to
my fellow Australians to do the
bowel screening test before it’s
too late,” Mr Clarke said.
The National Bowel Cancer
Screening Program began in
2006 and has been progressively
expanding the age groups invited
to participate. With the addition
of 70 and 74 year olds in 2015,
the age groups currently invited
to participate are people aged 50,
55, 60, 65, 70 and 74. By 2020, all
Australians aged 50 to 74 will be
invited to participate every two
years.
*Source: Australian Institute of
Health and Welfare & Australasian
Association of Cancer Registries 2012.
Cancer in Australia - an overview
2012. Cancer series no. 74 Cat. No.
CAN 70. Canberra: AIHW
**Source: Pignone P.P, Flitcroft K.L et
al: Costs and cost-effectiveness of full
implementation of a biennial faecal
occult blood test screening program
for bowel cancer in Australia. MJA
2011.
March 2015
Community
LearnTen Pin Bowling
Blind Sports Victoria and the Victorian Ten Pin Bowling
Association partner to bring the Bowling 101 program to
people with a vision impairment.
What is Bowling 101?
The Bowling 101 Program is designed to introduce
the sport to new participants as well as develop the
fundamental skills of current bowlers. Bowling 101
consists of eight sessions that steadily introduce new
skills each week. The emphasis of the program is for
participants to have fun, learn new skills and improve
their bowling.
Who can participate?
The Blind Sports Victorian Ten Pin Bowling Association
program is open people who are blind or vision impaired,
and their family and friends.
When: Every Thursday from 12th March 2015 for 8 weeks.
Time: 11am
Cost: $5 per session (Each participant will receive a
welcome pack that includes a backpack, drink bottle and
much more!)
Where: AMF Moorabbin, 938 Nepean Highway,
Moorabbin, Vic, 3189
How to get there:: AMF Moorabbin is a short 100 metre
walk from Moorabbin Train Station and directly opposite
the Moorabbin Police Station.
Registration and further information: To register or
further information contact Blind Sports Victoria on 03
9822 8876 or Ten Pin Bowling Victoria on 03 9532 2219.
Are you retired or working part time and thinking about
a Volunteer role within your Community? Do you have
an interest in local history, architecture or both? If so
you may like to consider joining the friendly team of
volunteers who manage on behalf of the National Trust,
the Portable Iron Houses at South Melbourne. If you
think you might be interested in finding out more about
what is involved and visiting the property you can email
volunteers@nattrust.com.au.
Altona community choir is looking for a permanent parttime piano accompanist. The position would require 2
Monday night choir practices per month and a 1 hour
concert time on either a Wednesday or a Friday afternoon
throughout the year.
News
Fifty~Plus News ­­­­­11
This is our Community page bringing you information on smaller organisations and / or services within the community
you may not be aware of. The listings here are free. Advertisers on this page are ‘Champions’ for the page. Please support
them where possible and in doing so help listed organisations and those they assist.
To enquire if your organisation qualifies for a free listing on this page or to become a “Champion for the page’ email
contact@fiftyplusnews.com or send details to PO Box 473, Hastings Vic 3915 by the 15th of each month. I welcome all
enquiries for this community service.
Interested? Call Paula on 0409 215 352 for further details.
Berwick Evening View Club
With a Government subsidy to some families to be cut
I feel the start to the school year of 2015 may see the
need for student support greater than in the past
.Funds to meet the demands of modern education
may well strain household budgets to the extreme. I’m
calling to any women in our area who needs variety in
their lives and like to be useful. Start by coming along
to our monthly dinner meetings on 3rd Monday of the
month at Central Hotel, Beaconsfield at 7pm. Join us
for fun, fellowship, & fund raising. We’re the Berwick
Evening VIEW (Vision, Interest, Education for Women)
Club who, under the umbrella of the Smith Family, help
sponsor educational needs of some local children. These
students may otherwise not have all that they need to
reach their full potential at school. While doing this we
have fun together, and in turn learn as well. You’d be
most welcome. Bookings can be made by phoning Kaye
on 97697762
Blackburn TOWN club meets every Monday at 0930am
Venue, Eley Park Community Centre, Eley Road,
Blackburn South. No pills or diets just sensible eating,
encouragement, rewards & incentives. Details, Judith
98789914. Rene 98744043
Mount Waverley Ladies Probus.
Join our club for friendship & activities.
Meetings take place on 2nd Wednesday of the month
10am to 12noon.
Venue, Youth Centre Mount Waverley next to the library.
Activities include, Outings, Cinema, Walks, Lunch,
Speakers, Morning Melodies.
Details Judith 98789914. Barbara 98850471
The Sunbury Library Chess club meets on Tuesdays
Location : 44 Macedon St Sunbury
Meeting times are from 4 pm until 8 pm
Telephone : (03) 9356 6970
Website : www.humechess.webs.com
The Melton Library Chess Club is looking for players who
would like to join in and play on a weekly basis
The Melton Library Chess Club meets on Thursdays
Location 31 Mckenzie St Melton Meetings times are from
4 pm until 8 pm
Telephone : (03) 97475300
Website : www.meltonchess.weebly.com
Greensborough Probus Club has vacancies at the
moment. We meet on the first Monday of each month at
10.am at Greensborough RSL. We have special interest
groups including craft, theatre, dining out, trips, music,
computers, writing and walking. Please contact 9434
1511 if you would like to come and visit.
HEATHMONT MENS PROBUS CLUB. A limited number of
vacancies currently exist for semi-retired or retired men
to join Heathmont Probus. This is a great opportunity
to expand your interest and meet new friends. The
Club meets on the first Monday of each month at the
Heathmont Bowls Club, 9 The Greenway, Heathmont.
Contact Bill Horman on 9729 4342 for details.
Are you retired or working part time and thinking about
a Volunteer role within your Community?
Do you have an interest in local history, architecture or
both? If so you may like to consider joining the friendly
team of volunteers who manage on behalf of the National
Trust, the Portable Iron Houses at South Melbourne. If
you think you might be interested in finding out more
about what is involved and visiting the property you can
email volunteers@nattrust.com.au.
Impact Volunteering provides services & resources
to boost volunteering opportunities for organisations
and individuals. We register and refer 100’s of
volunteers each month and we aim to put you in
touch with opportunities you feel are the best match
for your interests and goals. Visit our new website
WWW.IMPACTVOLUNTEERING.ORG.AU
­­­­­12
News
Fifty~Plus News
March 2015
Acting on Age Discrimination - Your Options
Many reports of age discrimination relate to work opportunities. However, age
discrimination occurs in a wide variety of situations.
require the making of reasonable adjustments and … the taking of special measures’.
The federal Age Discrimination Commission offers a complaint and conciliation process.
What is age discrimination?
If a person uses your age or apparent age as a reason to treat you unfavourably or to
create extra hurdles, their behaviour is discriminatory. Such behaviour can occur when
you pursue opportunities for training or promotion or, for example, when seeking
access to a venue normally open to the public.
Victoria’s Equal Opportunity Act makes it unlawful to discriminate against people based
on their age. There are lawful exceptions. It is permissible, for example, to provide ageappropriate services in response to a person’s particular needs.
In the employment context, the law is clear that work entry, training and promotion
should be based on people’s abilities relative to the requirements of the job, not on
their age.
Why is protection from age discrimination important?
Where there is age discrimination, the opportunities for older people to have satisfying
work, participate fully in the community, act independently and enjoy life are likely to
be restricted. The two Acts aim to promote equality before the law and recognition that
people of all ages have the same fundamental rights.
What should you do if you face age discrimination?
If you experience age discrimination, you may refer the issue to the Victorian Equal
Opportunity and Human Rights Commission. Usually the Commission will seek to
resolve the matter between you and the other party, which may be an organisation,
a person acting on its behalf, or both. Matters that are not settled through dispute
resolution may be referred to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
If the discrimination is serious or systemic, the Commission has powers to conduct
an investigation and make a report to the attorney-general or to parliament. If your
complaint is about discriminatory advertising, the Commission may bring proceedings
against those responsible.
Commonwealth Law
The Age Discrimination Act makes age discrimination unlawful in the areas of
work, education, access to premises, provision of goods, services and facilities,
accommodation, disposal of land and requests for information.
Some important exceptions are made for positive discrimination in age-related
programs and in the conditions of membership of voluntary bodies. Allowance is also
made for the customs of religious bodies and for differences in various financial services
that are based on actuarial and statistical information. There are similar exceptions in
the Equal Opportunity Act, which states: ‘the achievement of substantive equality may
NEW LAWS FOR POWERS OF ATTORNEY
The new Powers of Attorney Act will commence by 1 September 2015. It introduces
substantial changes to enduring powers of financial attorney and enduring powers of
guardianship. However, your existing enduring powers will remain valid. It is prudent
to have such powers in place.
I will give a detailed outline of the new legislation closer to the commencement date.
In the meantime, readers may wish to note that the Act creates an additional ‘supportive
attorney’ role, whereby the ‘principal’ makes his or her own decisions with assistance
from the supportive attorney. The supportive attorney might assist, for instance, by
obtaining information that the principal needs before making a decision. If you appoint
a supportive attorney, you may authorise your appointee to put your decisions into
effect, excepting those that involve ‘significant financial transactions’.
When the new legislation commences, you will still have the opportunity to appoint
someone to act on your behalf rather than merely to assist by supporting your decisionmaking.
Rosamund Krivanek’s legal practice includes wills, powers
of attorney, estates, planning & environmental matters, and
property and accommodation options for older people. You may
contact her on (03) 9815 1218 or at landcraft@lizzy.com.au
Advertorial
Relieve the Stress of
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the Lifestyle you Want
Are You Downsizing?
If you’re downsizing then you’re probably
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Happy to be moving into a new home but
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Pieces you’ve loved and cherished for many
years. Will they fit? Are they too old and
worn?
Grace Interior Designs will design your
perfect new home by understanding your
needs, your interior design preferences and
then helping you decide what to keep, sell
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Downsizing is a great opportunity and with
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realise your ideal lifestyle with the perfect
combination of new and existing pieces.
Call Trish Khoury, Interior Designer
on 0499 656 737 or email trish@
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initial chat to discuss your circumstances.
Servicing suburbs within 30kms from
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Are you downsizing into an apartment or
smaller home? Recently Grace Interior Designs
worked with a client who was downsizing from
a big family home in Templestowe to a much
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stress of moving this client was unsure about
what furniture to take, would it fit, would it
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Most importantly the client wanted to create
a new interior design that truly reflected her
personality and new empty nest lifestyle but
wasn’t sure if her existing furniture was suitable.
Grace Interior Designs created an interior design
that suited the client and her new home. We
then carefully selected which existing pieces
she should keep as well as chose fantastic new
pieces to achieve the client’s ideal lifestyle.
A CBRE Sales Executive with many downsizing
clients says; “What people downsizing need to
remember is their old furniture doesn’t work in
a new modern apartment setting.” Downsizing is an exciting fresh start, get it
right by working with Grace Interior Designs
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Call Trish Khoury, Interior Designer on 0499
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COUNTRY & WESTERN ROUND UP ON
WEDNESDAY 26th NOVEMBER 2014
a huge success!
The dedicated team from Celebration of Life Events staged another
fantastic event, at the Collingwood Town Hall. The theme for this event
was “Country and Western”, with many guests dressing in appropriate
attire. eighteen facilities were in attendance with some 280 people
present.
The entertainment was provided by the “Huffers and Puffers”. The 27
piece retired musicians big band were outstanding. Father Bob McGuire
opened the event with Paul “Slim” Brophy as MC. The event was an
outstanding success due to the collaborative effort of the organising
group.
Trish Quinn from Mary McKillop Aged Care and her team of wonderful
volunteers were instrumental in setting up the event. The next event
is planned for Wednesday 27th May 2015 titled “A Winter Wonderland.”
If your group wants to find out more contact Paul Brophy via email
brophy@bsl.org.au
Lifestyle
March 2015
Fifty~Plus News ­­­­­13
FOR WRITERS AND READERS
Take your Partners by Ruby King
“Why is Granny so sad?” asked Tom as Jean drove away
from the nursing home. Like her grandson, Jean was
worried about her mother.
“Granny is quite old now and has lots of pain in her arms
and legs. Most of all; she misses Grandpa. You remember
he died last year and Granny can’t live by herself anymore.”
The nursing home staff were kind and caring but Dorothy
just couldn’t adjust to her new life. Jean visited when she
could and today she had brought Tom, Dorothy’s only great
grandchild. Even he could not cheer up the old lady.
“Hello Jean, it’s Angie from Lavender Lodge. I know you’re
worried about Dorothy. Doctor has suggested that an
infusion of a new drug might ease the pain of her arthritis.
Would you agree to that?”
“If Doctor thinks it might be helpful then by all means go
ahead. I may not visit next week but will definitely be in the
following weekend.”
“Dorothy, it’s Angie, can I come in? How are you feeling?”
“I don’t seem to have so much pain through the night so
that’s good.”
“Would you like to come to the day room? A musical group
is playing. No? Well I’ll leave your door open so you can hear
the tunes.”
Dorothy settled in her chair, closed her eyes and listening to
the music fell into a doze. Suddenly she woke up. What was
that tune she could hear? ‘Night and Day’? Yes it was. Could
she remember the words?
“Night and day, you are the one. You just you beneath the
moon and under the sun..” A slow foxtrot. How she loved
to dance with Ray when they were courting. She enjoyed
many of the dance tunes but ‘Night and Day’ was their song.
Rising from the chair Dorothy picked up her stick and
made her way slowly to the day room. Some residents were
dancing and fro the first time in ages Dorothy smiled.
“How lovely to see you up and about,” said Mavis, another
resident. “Come sit with me and have some afternoon tea.”
“Hello Mum, just a quick call to see how you are. I’m sorry
but I can’t come this weekend. Young Tom has his first footy
match and I promised to go and watch.”
“Maybe one day I could come and see him play. I’m feeling
much better with the new medicine.”
“Oh mum I’m so pleased! I could pick you up, we’ll watch
the footy and then you can stay for tea.”
Jean hung up the phone and felt less anxious about her
mum. Maybe everything would be better now.
Jean and Tom arrived at Lavender Lodge and Tom went
racing down to see his granny.
“Nan, she isn’t there. Is granny sick again?”
Jean paused at reception and was told maybe she should
go down to the day room. Music echoed along the corridor
as she and Tom approached.
“Look there’s granny.”
And there indeed was Dorothy, dancing, albeit slowly, with
Mavis. Her hair was freshly waved and she was wearing a
dress that Jean had not seen for a long time. Catching sight
of Jean and Tom, Dorothy came over and sat down.
“Hello young Tom, how’s the footy going? Have you scored
many goals?”
Tom smiled and gave his gran a big hug. Dorothy’s eyes
shone and with tears Jean felt her own eyes prickle.
“Lovely to see you looking so well Mum. Next week I’ll
come and pick you up on Sunday to watch Tom’s footy.
What would you like for tea?”
“Yes, Sunday will be fine but not Saturdays from now on. I
don’t want to miss the dancing.”
A DIFFERENT EARTH
BY
MAX C. S BECK
Based on a True Story.
Arriving from Cornwall at the Burra copper mines in South Australia in 1851 Jane Dunstan
and her family faced dramatic times with floods, a new baby born underground and the tragic
loss of her husband and two daughters.
When gold was discovered in Victoria this resilient pioneering lady, who refused to be deterred
by adversity, hired a bullock driver and dray to carry her meagre belongings and undertook a
courageous six week, 550 mile overland trek with her six children to Castlemaine. Her epic
tale is told in A Different Earth. The book is the first to provide a comprehensive narrative of
the amazing, almost unknown, historical overland journey undertaken by many gold diggers
from South Australia to Forest Creek.
After arriving at the diggings Jane married
Thomas Rodda and had three more
children, bringing her total issue to 11. She
eventually had 59 grandchildren. Author
Max Beck, a great grandson of Jane is a
retired magistrate and coroner.
Published by Palmer Higgs Pty Ltd. It is
available online and at all good bookshops
including
www.angusrobertson.com.au
www.bookdepository.com.au
www.booktopia.com.au
www.bookworld.com.au
www.readings.com.au
Paperback RRP $36.99
ISBN 978 0 992 5494 5 9
eBook RRP $9.95
ISBN 978 0 992 5494 6 6
A Time of Secrets by
Deborah Burrows
I love a good mystery
especially when I can
learn about times past
along the way. In wartime
Melbourne loose lips sink
ships, so when Australian’s
Women’s Army sergeant
Stella Aldridge overhears
soldiers
whispering
about a revenge killing.
She follows her instincts to investigate, despite
finding herself drawn to one of the soldiers. I’m
not going to tell you anymore. This is a fantastic
read. Published by Macmillan. RRP $29.99 ISBN
9781743532997
How To Get A Good Job
After 50 by Rupert French
Although this book is
targeted for those over
50 the truth is this is a
great guide for anyone
searching for a job or a
way to change direction
in careers. It provides a
positive approach and is
set out clearly with tools
and strategies to put the odds in your favour.
A great guide and a must if you are feeling as
though the job market is passing you by, Also
check out Rupert’s website for free support
materials http://www.jobwinnersguides.com/.
Published by Exisle Publishing RRP $29.99 ISBN
9781921966644 Also available as an eBook. See
www.exislepublishing.com.au
Attorney Sabre Orin Brown’s job
is to protect her minor client.
Her obsession is to solve the
mysterious disappearance of her
brother. When Sabre’s search for
her brother and her career as a
juvenile court attorney collide, her
own life is threatened. As Sabre’s
passion to find the answers
intensifies, she discovers a twisted
history of desperation, deceit,
and revenge. Will she be able to
protect herself and the child she
represents from the obscure and
treacherous truth?
The Advocate by Teresa Burrell is
available on Amazon in Paperback,
on Kindle in digital form, and on
Audible in audio. Available on
Kindle right now for only $2.99.
Are you a self published author?
Need assistance in marketing your
book?
This space could be yours!
Call Genine on 0418 383 152 or email
contact@fiftyplusnews.com
We can help!
­­­­­14
Fifty~Plus News
New supporters
of Seniors Card
“TO KEEP UP TO DATE
WITH NEW SENIORS
CARD SPECIAL OFFERS
AND DISCOUNTS, VISIT
www.seniorsonline.vic.
gov.au
Pharmacies
Sable Pharmacy Brunswick
Brunswick, 362-366 Sydney Rd
03 9380 4619
10% off ticketed item at normal RRP, excl,
prescriptions & sale items.
Health & Wellbeing
True Hearing
Camberwell, 1345 Toorak Rd
1300 878 343
10% off all hearing services for Senior Card
holders.
www.truehearing.com.au
Sporting Goods
Dolomiti
Ivanhoe, 1075-1087 Heidelberg Rd
03 9982 1440
10% off all advertised rates.
www.dolomiti.net.au
Classes & Courses, Education & Training
ishowU Technology Instructors
0428 614 413
10% disc, one on one instruction, in your own
home.
www.ishowu.com.au
Food & Drink, Restaurant
PizzaHut Shepparton
Shepparton, 525-535 Wyndham St
03 5822 2378
$9.95 all you can eat, lunch only. Excl drinks &
juices, weekends & public holidays.
Vivere Restaurant Café Bar
Point Cook, Shop 129 Pt Cook Town Centre
03 9395 0520
10% off total bill, including drinks food, for
lunch, dinner & Sat/Sun breakfast. Excl public
holidays.
www.vivererestaurant.com.au
Lets Do Coffee
Echuca, 234 Pakenham St
03 5482 4488
10% off all food & beverages
Michel’s Patisserie Sunshine
Sunshine, Shop 9, Sushine Market Place, 80
Harvester Rd
03 9311 0121
10% disc, for any coffee,cakes or any meal
purchase, excl, cold drinks & bottled drinks.
Gardening Products & Services
Healesville Supersoil
Healesville, 82 Maroondah Hwy
03 5962 5054
10% off all fully priced products, nursery, bulk
garden & building supplies. Excl discounted/
multi buy products. www.supersoil.com.au/
healesville
Health & Beauty/Health Foods & Products
The Happy Herb Company 02 6679 5227
10% off full priced items, some exclusions may
apply www.happyherbcompany.com
Lifestyle
FOR FURTHER
INFORMATION,
CONTACT, 1300 797 210
OR EMAIL
seniorcard@health.vic.
gov.au
Home Building & Renovations
Kitchen Kiosk
Mitcham, 2/39 Deep Creek Rd
03 9872 4140
25% discount on placement order for new
kitchen cabinets. Excl bench tops, trades or
splashbacks.
www.kitchenkiosk.com.au
Leisure & Recreation/Racing
Hearts Racing
Malvern, Suite 215, 19 Milton Pde
03 9822 0559
10% discount on all online services
www.heartsracing.com.au
Music & Musical Instrument
Bilarm Music
St Kilda, 21 Fawkner St
03 9646 3083
10% off CD’s + free postage. Barry Humphries
favourite gramophone records. Smacka,
Graeme Bell, Don Burrows, plus many more.
View the full catalogue at: www.bilarm.com.au
Sam Green
St Kilda East, 17 McHenry St
0412 564 404
20% discount performance, if not overbooked.
www.mrmusicman.com
Health & Beauty/Natural Therapies
Enosis Medi-Spa & Wellness Centres
Ringwood, 3-5 Loughnan Rd
1800 Enosis
10% off all purchases at Enosis Medi-Spa &
Wellness Centres. Services include: massage,
naturopathy, weight loss and more.
www.enosis.com.au
You Relax Massage
Caulfield, 211 Hawthorn Rd
0414 344 239
50% off all relaxation, therapeutic or remedial
massage services. Book online selecting the
concession rate.
www.yourelaxmassage.com.au
Arts & Handcrafts
JM Embroideries & Collectibles
Morwell, 236 Commercial Rd
0417 670 160
10% off all items store wide, excl. marked down
items, stitch –out & repair services.
www.embroideries.com.au
Tourist Attractions & Activities, History &
Heritage
Narre Warren & District Family History Group
Narre Warren, Overland Dve
03 9704 7372
10% discount on all publications of Narre
Warren & District Family History Group.
www.nwfhg.org.au
March 2015
Fifty~Plus News
Classifieds
BUY, SWAP, SELL...OR FIND A TRADESMAN!
Wanted
to Buy
Collector seeks Enamel signs
Oil bottles
Rabbit traps
Old fishing gear
Rock ‘n roll records
Australian Military
items (WW1/WW2)
Old toys
Cast iron items
Top Cash Paid
Call 5428 2848 or
0417 415 336
Piano Lessons
Introductory piano
workshops. Learn
with others in a
group of four or five.
Begin from scratch
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Ongoing workshops
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(Individual lessons
also available)
Studio4Music,
Glen Waverley.
9561 2414.
0428 903 827
Slides and
Movies to Disc
and DVD
Garden
Services
Photos and Music to
Disc
35mm slides + photos
+ negatives to DVD.
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background music.
3” x 8mm film roll to
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VHS Video cassette .
Mini and Standard to
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Music Records and
Cassettes to C.D. U.S.B.
For the price of a local
call Thomas on
03 87746868
or 0452210229 for
a quote or further
information
Pickup and Delivery
Available.
JAMES
GARDENING
SERVICES
Seeking
Employment
Mature lady seeking
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Handyman Service
I & A Handyman Services
All carpentry jobs, Decking, Fencing
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Servicing all suburbs within 20 mins drive
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For a free no obligation quote call
0458 345 282
mail@iahandymanservices.com.au
www.iahandymanservices.com.au
All Garden Maintenance
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Hedges
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Rubbish removed (6x4
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COMPUTER
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You are
reading
50+
News
Want to advertise in our Classified
section?
Contact Genine on 0418 383 152 or
email contact@fiftyplusnews.com
Make your business stand out.
Lifestyle
March 2015
Fifty~Plus News ­­­­­15
A Ticket to Dine in 2015
Pastiche
with Virginia Hill
If you’re fifty plus chances are you have been eating out
over the last three decades whilst Australia has become a
foodie nation with almost 80,000 restaurants, cafes and
takeaway outlets in the land, according to the Fair Work
Ombudsman.
The supply of restaurants have increased by over 400%
since the 1990’s whilst the population has increased only
20% so it’s fair to assume that we have an oversupply of
restaurants especially in Metropolitan Melbourne (and
Sydney), cities currently oversupplied by around 30% of
eateries.
As a casual diner or someone that eats out in the
evenings towards the end of a week when the restaurants
are usually full you could be excused for thinking that
restaurants are generally full, especially if you are unable
to make a booking and asked to queue, or forced to dine
at the inconvenient sitting times of either 6.30 or 8.45
p.m., policies which lead to a general perception that
restaurants are making a lot of money.
The reality is with an oversupply of restaurants there
are just not enough customers to go round, thus most
outlets’ profits are slim and whilst accurate figures are
hard to come by according to the Taxation Office and the
Restaurant and Caterers Association, restaurants make
between 4-5% profit, in other words, not a lot.
Meantime the costs of running restaurants are higher
than the rate of inflation particularly in the areas of
wages and food purchases, whilst menu pricing remains
stagnant and customer expectations high, driven by the
media pushing views that contemporary lifestyle rotates
around the art of food.
And then there is the behavior of present day tech
savvy mobile phone customers to contend with – diners
who linger at tables sharing a bowl of soup or sipping a
babycino for hours to use the free wi-fi; three mothers
with prams taking up a table for six and leaving without
tipping and these days anyone with taste buds becoming
a critic on Urban Spoon or a food blogger who can resort
to intimidation when airing their gripes.
So as margins have eroded restaurateurs have responded
in different ways such as the no bookings policy aimed at
protecting against groups of diners booking 3 restaurants
for weekend dining and then choosing one at the eleventh
hour without cancelling the alternative bookings.
This year you will find a la carte menus being displaced
by fixed price menus so customers know exactly what to
expect thus won’t be able to sit on a couple of entrees
in opulent dining rooms for hours. Otherwise, diners can
opt for a set minimum spend of two courses for $50 or
three for$60, and two sittings, to ensure the viability and
longevity of restaurants.
New technology for bookings via the United States
is making its way here to fine dining restaurants who
have always been plagued by no shows and last minute
cancellations. This is a ticketing system of pre-payment,
upfront, to reserve and print out your seats, by selecting a
time and the number of diners and then paying by credit
card. Prices vary depending on the time of the week and
do not include wine. Like entertainment events there
are no refunds for non-attenders but of course you can
always pass your reservation on if you can find someone
to pick it up, and this is one way of avoiding queuing!
Food trends to watch out for this year are a vogue for vegies
with golden oldies such as cauliflower, sweet potatoes
and broccoli becoming the main ingredient providing a
meat free day. Burgers are back, with fine dining chefs
turning to fast food. Ancient grains like Peruvian quinoa
are increasingly popular
whilst the foods of Chile,
Peru
and
Argentina
are now emerging interestingly on a recent
trip to Buenos Aires I
found their simple and
speedy way of cooking
fresh water trout my most
memorable meal.
www.virginiahill.com.au
BUTTERFLIED
TROUT WITH HERBED BUTTER Serves 2
Grape Expectations
with Ben Knight
2014 Hither and Yon Young Shiraz,
McLaren Vale, Sth Australia
The grape Shiraz won’t be new to
any of you; it’s the workhorse grape
of Australia and at the same time
the flagship grape. With Penfolds
Grange and Henschke Hill of Grace
at the forefront in peoples mind
when thinking of the biggest and
the best, these iconic wines have
borne a tsunami of replicas and
wannabees.
While most of the Shiraz you will
have tasted will be built in the same
mould as these wines - big, bigger,
best - there are more and more
new comers making fruitier and
livelier expressions of Shiraz. The
Hither and Yon Young Shiraz from
McLaren Vale in South Australia, is
just this type of wine.
The simplest way to make more
juicy examples is to use less oak in
the ageing process. The greater use
of stainless steel for ageing allows
wine to retain bright fruity aromas
and flavours; whereas wood not
only adds a deeper baking spice
element it also knocks back fruit
expression. This Shiraz is also
released as a very young wine,
again allowing the juicy, supple
fruit to be at its zenith.
As the wine pours out, the glass
is stained with a vibrant purple
splash. The nose smells of ripe
berries and cream, with a little
spice too. This wine does see a little
oak, but only for two months. In
essence this is unwooded; certainly
its fruit expression is all about
freshness and slurpability. This
would work perfectly with a simple
antipasto with a little chill on the
wine, or equally well with classic
roast lamb or beef.
Don’t expect to be weighed
down by this wine; its beauty is its
simplicity, vibrancy and ridiculous
value for money.
Available
online
or
in
independent retail for around $22.
www.hitherandyon.com.au
2 x 300g butterflied whole Rainbow trout, bones
& heads removed
Salt and pepper
2 tbs. oil
2 tbs. unsalted butter infused with
1 tbs. mixed fresh herbs, finely chopped
1 lemon’s zest
Preheat the oven to a hot 250 C
Brush lightly with oil, place on prepared tray
skin side down
Cook on the top rack of the oven 7-8 minutes
until the flesh is opaque.
Top each fish with a tablespoon of herbed
butter
Cover a baking sheet with foil lightly oiled
Season the prepared fish well with salt and
pepper,
Tip: Butterflied trout barbeques well
HIP PAIN RELIEF by Frank Ford
Garnish with lemon zest and serve with a crisp
green salad.
HIP PAIN
After fourteen years of trial and
error I discovered the cause of my
hip pain. I first noticed that as my
work boots s got old and ragged my
hips, knees and ankles became sore.
Not enough to affect my mobility
If your hip is as painful as mine was
but uncomfortable. After wearing a
you will love this message
new pair the pain slowly subsided.
Then I started modifying the old
boots by grinding the lower surface
https://faford.wordpress.com
level with a large metal grinder. This
ph (03)9819 3946
worked for a while but made the
mb 0419 165 983
boots generally uncomfortable.
em faford@iprimus.com.au
To cut a fourteen year story short I
went from heel inserts to studying
the heel shape of boots and shoes.
properly shaped heels was a slow cure.
Just as well because my hip pain had
Instead of only being able to take four steps
dramatically increased and spoilt the latter
without severe pain I can now walk for four
part of an overseas holiday.
hours. The ad in this issue of Fifty Plus News
However I was hot on the heels of a
refers to a blog I recommend you to read.
solution (no pun intended). I had measured
Hopefully any reader with a painful hip will
a worn boot quite accurately and found
have the same success as I have.
the forces generated by a poorly shaped or
The blog sounds very technical but have
worn out boot heel were enormous. Every
been assured it delivers the message.
time my right foot touched the ground it
Reading is free unless you have your
sent my leg bone into a small painful area
mobility returned and would like to reward
of my hip with a force of 2000 pounds per
my fourteen year effort.
square inch. Wearing shoes and boots with
RELIEF
­­­­­16
Body & Mind
Fifty~Plus News
Solution to December/January chess puzzle 1.Nxe5 BxQ
2.Bxf7# Ke7 3. Nd5 ## Checkmate
Mindgames
W
March 2015
ELCOME to the Fifty-Plus News Mindgames page. In
each issue, we bring you a crossword and a Wheel Words
or Sudoku in alternating issues. Good luck and happy puzzling!
Chess Tactics (Part 4)
Overload.
Employ multiple attacks on a
selected piece or pawn preferably
a “pinned” piece and keep
attacking it until there is no
defending pieces being able to
defend it or mobilize effectively
towards it. Two attacking versus
two defending holds fast, three
attacking pieces versus two
defending pieces wins the piece or
pawn and position. Always count
the defenders and the attackers
and compare figures which have
to be greater to win it.
Author : Roye Burgess works at
being a freelance Chess Coach
Solutions are on page 21
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
March Chess Puzzle
White to move and mate in 6 moves
19
20
21
22
23
WHEEL WORDS
24
25
ACROSS
1. Arm joint
7. Supplied funds for
8. Too sentimental
10. Consecrates
12.Beer-lemonade
beverages
14. Inhale sharply
16. Swing to & fro
17. Public disturbance
20. Freehold land (4,6)
23. Father Christmas
24.Romania’s
neighbour
25. Rudely ignores
T
DOWN
1. Predatory birds
2. Delighted cries
3. Brass metal
4. Eiffel Tower city
5. Mobilises
6. Tots up (4,2)
9. 3-foot units
11. Pleasant tasting
13. Ostrich relative
15. Illegally helps
16. Scours
18. Inuit boats
19. Untamed
21. Snip
22. Make (profit)
L
D
I
A
E Q
15 GOOD
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
U
I
Your aim is to create as many
words of 4 letters or more
using the given letters once
only but always including the
centre letter. Do not use
proper names, plurals or
foreign words. See if you can
find the 9-letter word using up
all letters.
9-LETTER WORD
20 VERY GOOD
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
25+ EXCELLENT
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
© Lovatts Puzzles
Solution: Adit, Aide, Dale, Date, Deal, Dial, Dual, Idea, Lade, Laid,
Late, Laud, Lead, Quad, Tail, Tale, Teal, Adieu, Adult, Ailed, Audit,
Dealt, Delta, Equal, Ideal, Quail, Tidal, Detail, Dilate, Tailed,
Liquate, Quailed, Tequila, Liquated.
Be online, browsing the web and sending
emails in under an hour
Nine-letter word: LIQUIDATE
Simple to operate Windows computer software allows seniors to embrace the
technological age with confidence and enjoy its many benefits.
Wheel Words 555
Do you look on in awe at your children and grandchildren as they use their computers
to get information, chat with family and friends, share photos and shop online? Well,
you don’t have to be left behind!
With the Simplicity ‘ENVELOPE’® there’s no need to feel daunted - you can be online,
browsing the web and sending emails in under an hour. The Simplicity system, is
exactly as the name implies, it’s simplicity itself!
The software can be installed on your existing Windows computer (as long as it’s
not too old) or pre-installed on new equipment. The Simplicity screen automatically
opens up when you start the computer; it contains everything you need to browse the
web, email, manage photos, create documents and Skype but hides all the fiddly icons
and confusing toolbars that are often small and difficult to see.
David Lumb of SilverSurf Technology, reseller of Simplicity ‘ENVELOPE’® system
understands that, as simple as it is, many new users still want someone to show them
how to use the software and offer support.
‘Friends and family are often too busy or don’t have the patience to be of much
help,’ David explained. ‘As an established computer training and support organisation
working specifically with seniors, SilverSurf can install the software or set up your new
computer, teach you how to use it at a pace that suits you, and provide that ongoing
support – and all in the comfort and privacy of your own home’.
For further details contact SilverSurf Technology on 1300 725 855
Body & Mind
March 2015
Fifty~Plus News ­­­­­17
The Blinding Reality of Diabetic Retinopathy
It’s a little known fact: People living with
diabetes are at significant risk of going blind
– even if they have their diabetes under
control and have been given the ‘all clear’ in
the past by their optometrist.
That’s
the
new
message
being
communicated by Paul Mitchell, Professor of
Ophthalmology at the University of Sydney
and an internationally respected expert on
diabetic eye disease. “Diabetic retinopathy is
a common complication of diabetes and the
leading cause of blindness among working
age adults in Australia.” He said many people
with diabetes have their eyes tested by an eye
health professional once, maybe twice and
get the all clear. “Psychologically they move
into ‘safe mode’ – they don’t think they are at
risk of diabetic retinopathy any more. But in
fact, their eyes are in ‘unsafe mode’ because
for every year a person has diabetes, the
greater their risk of developing this blinding
eye disease.”
Professor Mitchell said “almost everyone
with type 1 diabetes will develop some form
of diabetic eye disease within 20 years of
diagnosis. Of particular concern however is
that many people with the more common
type 2 diabetes will have already had the
disease for many years by the time they
are diagnosed. A large proportion of these
people will develop potentially blinding
diabetic retinopathy within 5 to 10 years of
their diabetes diagnosis. Since everyone with
diabetes is at risk of retinopathy, it is essential
to have regular eye tests.
Julie Heraghty, CEO of Macular Disease
Foundation Australia, said almost all cases
of sight-threatening diabetic eye disease
can be avoided. “Careful management
of diabetes risk factors (especially blood
glucose, weight, blood pressure, lipids and
cessation of smoking), as well as a healthy
diet and lifestyle; supported by regular eye
examinations and specific treatment when
required are essential to preventing vision
loss from diabetic eye disease,” she said.
Diabetic eye disease can progress to
advanced stages without any effects on vision
and so it can easily go unnoticed. Detecting
early evidence of diabetic retinopathy with
regular eye tests is essential. Some people
need treatment which is highly effective if
delivered early.
Once symptoms develop, vision loss can
occur rapidly and can be permanent. “If any
changes in vision occur such as dark areas,
blurred, distorted, dim or double vision or
difficulty seeing at night, people should
make an appointment with an eye specialist
immediately, through a GP or optometrist
referral” said Julie.
Want a better night’s sleep?
We all know that when you sleep better all night, you feel better all day.
Superior Therapy’s simple solution is to give you a better quality of life
through our adjustable therapeutic massage beds and lift & recline chairs.
Superior Therapy has been operating in Brisbane since 2008, helping
our customers maintain their quality of life and independence in comfort.
With our wealth of experience we now bring our proven sleep system to
Victoria.
The secret of our success is the way our Superior Therapy beds and chairs
raise and lower to support the whole body from head to toe. You can use
the remote control to incline and elevate both the head and foot of the
bed to achieve the most comfortable and supporting position that is just
right for you.
Our Memory Foam mattresses relieve pressure, by molding to your body
and distributing weight evenly which simply feels great. Superior Therapy
adjustable massage beds are available in a range of sizes from Single to
Queen and we have Dual Queen & King Systems for couples who want
to sleep side-by-side but be in control of their own bed. Additionally our
beds and recliners feature relaxing massage functions.
To take advantage of our special introductory offer for Fifty-Plus News
readers to Win a Bamboo Pillow -see our puzzle competition below.
For more information call 1300 825 931 or visit our website
www.superiortherapy.com.au
For a free information publication on diabetic
eye disease contact the Macular Disease
Foundation Australia on 1800 111 709 or visit
www.mdfoundation.com.au.
References
1. “Out of Sight” A Report into Diabetic Eye Disease
in Australia. Baker IDI & Centre for Eye Research
Q
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Mail Entry to: FGPO
reepost 234, Melbourne,
Mount Waverley, Box 15485,
3001 3149
ENTRIES CLOSE 31ST MARCH
The Phone Shop 02 7560 8800
By submitting this Coupon to Superior Therapy you agree to a Free
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* While stocks last. Must be over 18 years of age to enter
­­­­­18
Going Places
Fifty~Plus News
March 2015
2015 Equine & Wild Art Exhibition
Old Post Office Seymour
50 Emily St, Seymour
Opening Sunday 1st March 11am to
4pm
An exhibition of more than 200 traditional, contemporary, experimental
and interpretative original works of Art by over 30 Australian Artists.
Feature artists include Amanda Hyatt, Fiona Anderson, Paul Margocsy, Linda Weil,
Elizabeth Cogley, Janet Flinn, Kris Peter, Brett Jarrett, Robyn Koiker, Julie Stephens,
Lynette Orzlowski, Agnes Szetey, Karen Gingell, Vida Pearson, Lyn Mellady, Yelena
Kolotusha, Antje Collis,Craig Penny, Alison Clark, Rodger Scott, Ross Paterson, Carole
Foster, Helen Cottle, Kate Jenvey, Laurel Foenander, Lesley Barrett & sculptors.
Continues Wed to Sun 11-4 & Wed to Sat evenings from 6pm
Until 12th April.
Free Entry at all times – browsing welcome.
Women of Empire 1914 – 1918
The costumes of an era and the personal experiences of Australian
and New Zealand women during the First World War.
23 February – 17 May 2015
National Wool Museum Geelong
2015 Entries Open
Coastlines are all at once comforting
and terrifying, they are memories,
the epicentre of environmental issues
and landscapes unto themselves; like
C OA S T L I N E S
National Wool Museum
5 June - 2 August 2015
A little bird told me – scratch board by
Lesley Barrett
On the bit – graphite by Kate Jenvey
a scarf each with its own inherent
personality and its own story to tell.
What direction will you take?
To participate visit:
www.nwm.vic.gov.au
Entries close 5pm Friday 8 May 2015
Dude so not a pillow –
Pastel by Fiona Anderson
26 Moorabool Street, Geelong
T 03 5272 4701
www.nwm.vic.gov.au
KILMORE ART EXPO
2015
Since its inception
in 2008, the Kilmore
Art
Expo
has
evolved as a ‘must
enter’ event on
the regional arts
calendar, and is
held annually; the
exhibition is open
to both Regional and Melbourne artists.
With almost $6000 in art awards, the Expo
encourages high quality entries from
established artists, as well as from young
and emerging artists.
The Expo focuses on exhibiting high
quality paintings, photographic works,
woodwork, ceramics and jewellery all work being for sale. There are over
500 paintings exhibited each year and
demonstrations are given on painting
techniques by well-known and respected
professional artists throughout the
weekend.
The overall aim of the Kilmore Art Expo
is to encourage artistic development
and appreciation of the arts. The Expo is
presented by the Kilmore Art Society Inc
and the Rotary Club of Southern Mitchell
and all proceeds from the Expo go to
charitable projects and programs, both
locally and internationally.
Kilmore is a 55 minute drive from
Melbourne so why not make a day (or
weekend) of it? We have great B&Bs as
well as motel accommodation for anyone
wanting to make a weekend of it.
The Expo will be held on Saturday April
11 from 10-5 and Sunday April 12 from
10-4 at the Memorial Hall, 14 Sydney St,
Kilmore. Admission $6 Concession $3
Admission includes catalogue and door
prize ticket.For further information
please email enquiries@kilmoreexpo.
com or phone 03 5782 1272 or checkout
the website www.
k i l m o re a r t e x p o.
com
Left Little Kilmore
Creek - Margaret
Morgan
Right Rear of Hudson
Park
Margaret
Morgan
Welcome to our ‘Art &
Roses Tours’
Saturday 11 April or
Sunday 12th April, 2015
We are inviting you and your Community
Organisation or Club to enjoy ‘A Day in
the Country’ with an Art & Roses Tour ,
includes a visit to the Kilmore Art Expo
and to Silkies Rose Farm in Clonbinane,
along with morning or afternoon tea at
Hidden Valley Estate in Wallan.
Tours are available for group bookings
only - all types of community
organisations, interest groups, societies
or clubs are welcome. For more
information please call:
DIANA SARGEANT Silkies Rose Farm –
Clonbinane 0418 337 765
ANDREA WILLIS Southern Mitchell
Rotary Club 0428 410 041
We provide $10 per head subsidy
towards your transport. The Tour
includes free of charge:
•Entry, catalogue and gallery guide at
the Kilmore Art Expo – Kilmore
•Entry and gardening demonstrations at
Silkies Rose Farm – Clonbinane
•Guided short walks, history and
entertainment
at Hidden Valley
– Wallan
Light Lunches
will be available
at the Kilmore
Art Expo Café,
main
course
is approx $10.
Morning
or
afternoon tea / coffee + cake at Hidden
Valley Restaurant, Wallan is approx $8.
At Silkies Rose Farm, you’ll enjoy the
splendour of mid-Autumn in the
gardens when the roses are at their
absolute best. Diana & Graham Sargeant
will share their organic and biodynamic
gardening principles and show you rose
pruning, composting, organic weed,
insect and black-spot management as
well as a little bit of animal husbandry
with the chooks in the garden. Very
entertaining learning when you take
a walk with Graham around the Rose
Farm. At Hidden Valley Estate, you’ll
have morning or afternoon tea at the
Restaurant and also enjoy a walk around
the gardens and lake, play Petanque
(Boule) or learn of the history of this
property..
Years
Ahead
road safety for seniors
Arts Digest
March 2015
Songs ofPraise
Fifty~Plus News ­­­­­19
YOU ARE INVITED! PLEASE BRING A FRIEND! FREE
EE ENTRY
AUTUMN
SPECIAL GUEST ITEMS:
Waverley Community Learning Centre
Diamond
mon
m
ond
nd
n
d Va
Valley
V
Valley
Inc. A0006997P
Baptist Church
Sunday, 22 March 2015
2.00 pm to 4.45pm ( pre-program at 1.30 pm)
Diamond Valley Baptist
Auditorium
COMMUNITY EVENTS - 2015
FREE - RACV: Personal Home Safety
NEW
This presentation discusses simple steps you can take to ensure the safety of yourselves, your
vehicles and your home. You will gain an overview of personal safety, vehicle security, home security,
home emergencies, falls in the home. To be held in the Tennis Club rooms behind our Centre.
9:30-10:30am
Friday
1hr
Term 1:
20/3
Free
309 Diamond Creek Road, Plenty (Melway 11 D7)
Phone: 9435 9377
Sing your favourite Hymns & Songs
Enjoy complimentary Afternoon Tea!
CARTER & CARTER have so many runs on the board during
d
the past 10 years that there should be no argument
about describing them as Australian Independent Country Music Artists of the Decade — Country Music Capital News.
With songs from the heart and borne of their amazing life experiences, Carter & Carter continue to make music that
makes a difference – telling their story and the stories of those around them as only
ly Carter & Carter can.
BRUCE BENNETT Easy Listening / Light Contemporary Trumpet style – Trumpet
et is his
passion… Especially the Classics from the last half century as well as some contemporary
mporary
pieces, either for the King of Kings or at a PM dinner. LEENA GARANDAN – singing
in part with the trumpet in Italian. She sings in 6 languages and has completed a 4 year
study in Classical Voice and Choral Conducting. Leena and her husband Joel who plays
Bass Guitar, are in the process of recording her debut album.
IAN ELLIS & LEIGH WALLACE – VOCAL DUET
us
From 2012 to 2014, IAN ELLIS’ 60 year musical world, came crashing down with a serious
illness resulting in him being discharged from hospital in June 2013 as a high care
whole saga is a miraculous story testifying
quadriplegic with only two months to live. The w
ying
to God’s continuing grace and faithfulness.
ess.
We are thrilled that Ian is now well enough
ugh
to sing a duet with Leigh Wallace, thanks
ks
to our amazing God.
LEIGH WALLACE
IAN ELLIS
LEIGH WALLACE comes from a musical
LE
family and has been involved in music all of his life
life. As a boy soprano
fam
he was a member of television’s Brian and the Juniors and later, as a
light baritone, was a member of The Young Australians led by Athol Guy
lig
of The Seekers fame. As an adult Leigh has sung predominantly Gospel
music and was a member of the Country Gospel groups Parable and
mu
the Kookaborough Creek Bush Band – both groups originating from the
Diamond Valley Baptist Church.
Dia
Regulars:
R
l
DALE PHILIP our own popular SOP Baritone and RON ELLIS Compere/Tenor will sing.
SONGS OF PRAISE IS A DVBC WOMEN IN FOCUS INITIATIVE
FREE - Older and Wiser - Avoiding Scams
NEW
Protect yourself from becoming a scam victim, how to report a scam, how to spot and report travelling
con men, protecting yourself, common scams, how to get help presented by Consumer Affairs Victoria.
Tuesday
9-12noon
Semester 1:
3hrs
31/3
Free
Community Wills Day
Wills Days allow you to make or update a simple Will from $75.
You can bookanappointment with a member of the Bequest team by
email: bequests@redcross.org.au or calling 1800811700.
A confirmation letter will be posted with a checklist for you to complete. A solicitor will discuss your wishes
and take your instructions. The solicitor will contact you once your Will is drafted and ready for signing.
Wednesday,1stApril,2015
10amto4pm
Waverley Community Learning Centre
5 Fleet Street, Mt Waverley
FREE - Seniors Forum on Retirement Lifestyle
NEW
RetirementLiving-HousingOptions-AgedCareStay Where You Are OR Move?
Presented by: RRVV, Consumer Affairs Vic., City of Monash - HACC, Seniors Info. Vic & Vendor Advocacy Aust.
Monday
9:15-12:30pm
3hrs
Term 2:
29/6
Free
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL PH: 9807 6011
www.waverleyclc.org.au
WCLC acknowledges the support
of the Victorian Government.
™
Neighbourhood Houses
The heart of our community
Bridge road brewers are excited to announce the
inaugural High Country Hops Festival.
A celebration of Victoria’s high country
brewers and the 2015 Hop Harvest.
This is a new event for Beechworth and the
surrounding region and is one that brings
together like minded craft brewers and the
growers of the all important ingredient –
HOPS!
The festival will be held outdoors as a
carpark festival directly behind the brewery
next to our new warehouse and bottling
facility. The festival will also feature local food
producers, musicians, performers, children’s
activities and even a chance to try your hand
at some archery.
For those wanting to travel from Melbourne
the High Country Brewers have partnered
with Melbourne’s Gertrude Hotel who will
be running a weekend tour to the region to
coincide with the event.
Those keen to be ferried between hop
gardens and breweries should contact Leo
from the Gertrude Hotel on 0427 800 0361 or
email leo@thegertrudehotel.com.au.
For more information regarding the
festival please contact Ben at infor@
bridgeroadbrewers.com.au
The festival begins at 11am.
C O L L E C T O R S
POP UP EXHIBITION
CaSTLEmaINE STaTE & FRINgE FESTIvaL
maRCH 2015
SUN 8th - SUN 22nd
OPENINg SUNday 8TH maRCH
Exhibition Open daily 11am - 4pm
LOUISE SmITH FINE aRT
DAVID DALLWITZ, Nelson, Acrylic on Board, 120x180cm
HOUGHTON PARK, 43 Odgers Road
Castlemaine VIC 3450
Mobile: 0418 519 747
Email: louiseart@bigpond.com
Web: www.louisesmithfineart.com
The Singers
return
Maroondah Singers, the
celebrated mixed-voice
community choir, is back
rehearsing for 2015 and it
warmly invites prospective
new members among
all voices. Sight reading
an advantage but not
essential; a love of singing
and keenness to learn
are the most important
attributes. Rehearsals at
Mountview Uniting Church,
559-561 Whitehorse Road,
Mitcham, at 7.30pm.
Inquiries: 9725 7649.
­­­­­20
Fifty~Plus News
Cruden Farm Open Garden
& Family Day fundraiser in
support of heart and diabetes
research
Sunday 15th March 2015 marks the 10th year that notfor-profit medical research organisation, Baker IDI Heart
and Diabetes Institute, will host its annual fundraiser
in the magnificent gardens of the late Dame Elisabeth
Murdoch’s Cruden Farm.
Come celebrate! Cruden Farm is one of Australia’s finest
examples of landscape gardening, initially designed by
influential Australian landscape designer Edna Walling.
The property includes historic buildings, a lake and
working farm. Guests are invited to pack a picnic, prepurchase a Phillippa’s picnic box (when purchasing
tickets online or via calling 1300 728 900) or enjoy the
available refreshments on the day. Guests can also enjoy live entertainment, hear from
gardening experts and learn more about healthy living
from Baker IDI’s heart and diabetes staff.
LESS TRASHY…MORE
TREASURE
A huge new vintage market about to kick off
at Mornington Racecourse – Saturday 14th
March. Welcome to Revival Market Mornington,
A brand new market full of old and wonderful
things. From pre-loved, vintage, antiques
and old wares, to bric-a-brac, up-cycled and
collectables, free from anything new!
At Revival Market we admit we love the old
stuff better than the new stuff, things that have
a story to tell and have stood the test of time.
Come and discover your treasures, that oneof-a-kind leather jacket worn in just the right
places, a groovy red planet lamp just waiting
to funk up your home. A classic novel, a fab tin
toy for the kids or that vintage watch that still
keeps precision time.
Meet the curators of these unique and
magnificent vendibles, rummage through Car
Boot Alley and soak up the atmosphere at our
renowned venue Mornington Racecourse.
Enjoy live entertainment and kid’s activities
DIRTSONG
Music of the Australian Indigenous experience
from Black Arm Band
Darebin Arts is pleased to present dirtsong as
it alights at the Darebin Arts and Entertainment
Centre in 2015. This extraordinary musical
performance will play one evening only,
Thursday 26 March.
An unforgettable show to move the heart and
lift the spirit, dirtsong is inspired by the words
of Miles Franklin Award winner Alexis Wright.
A production by the highly respected music
and theatre company Black Arm Band, the
show features an impressive line-up of artists
for its Melbourne performance, including new
generation Indigenous Australian artist Yirrmal.
A powerful musical journey through Australia’s
cultural heartland, dirtsong is set against a
backdrop of stunning moving imagery and
text, featuring memorable songs performed in
11 different Aboriginal languages from some of
the most extraordinary performers in the land.
Showcasing and celebrating the very best
of Australian Aboriginal music, experience
and identity, Black Arm Band is a collective
of renowned Indigenous singers, musicians,
performers and actors.
FEATURED ARTISTS: Emma Donovan, Deline
Briscoe, Ursula Yovich, Trevor Jamieson, Yirrmal
and Mark Atkins
Date: Thursday 26 March 2015 Time: 7:30pm
Duration: 90mins (no interval)
March 2015
Arts & Entertainment
From face painting to vintage cars, the line up of activities
offers something for people of all ages, including:
· Special guest speaker Anne Latreille, gardening
author
· Jaguar Club Victoria vintage car display
· Live chamber music and bush ballads
· Children’s entertainers
· Healthy cooking demonstrations
· Sausage sizzle and refreshments
· Devonshire tea
· Premium Victorian wine
· Fresh produce and homemade jams and relishes
· Plant stalls
· Baby farmyard animals
· Face-painting and other children’s activities
· A raffle and silent auction
Baker IDI researchers will be on hand to discuss the
latest advances in medical research in diabetes and
heart disease. Proceeds will help support Baker IDI’s
researchers and their mission to improve the quality of
health for all Australians.
LOCATION:CRUDEN FARM (enter from Cranhaven Rd,
Langwarrin). Melways Ref: 103 G6
No pets allowed
PARKING: Free
ENTRY COST: Children under 18 free; Adults $25; Groups
of 10 or more - $20 / person
TICKETS: Available on the day or pre-purchase
Phone1300 728 900 (during business
hours) or book online
http://www.bakeridi.edu.au/crudenfarm2015
DATE:SUNDAY 15th MARCH, 2015 TIME:10am - 3pm
throughout the day, delicious food and drinks
plus plenty of free on-site parking. Revival
Market is a place for all people who appreciate
the good things of the past.
Where - Mornington Racecourse.
320
Racecourse Road Mornington
Date - Saturday 14th March Time - 9:30 - 2pm
$2 entry, free visitor parking
Location: Darebin Arts & Entertainment Centre,
Cnr Bell St & St Georges Rd, Preston
Prices: Adult $35, Conc $30, Group 4+ $30
TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW AT
http://darebinarts.com.au
Photo above Emma Donovan
Photo below Yirrmal
Following the hugely successful
2013/2014 Australian tour of
EMPIRE by Spiegelworld, it was
announced that Spiegelworld
will be bringing its smash-hit Las
Vegas show ABSINTHE to Australia
in 2015. The Melbourne season
will open on March 21 2015 under
the spiegeltent on the Rooftop at
Crown Melbourne.
Inspired by the absinthedrenched cabarets of late 19th
century Europe, ABSINTHE is an
adult themed cocktail of circus,
burlesque and vaudeville for a
21st century audience, hosted by
the outrageous Gazillionaire and
his side-kick Penny.
ABSINTHE will be presented in
a 700-seat antique spiegeltent,
furnished with beveled mirrors,
plush velvet seating booths and
a well stocked bar. Audience
members will get up close and
personal as the artists present
their jaw-dropping acts on the
most intimate stage in town.
The Australian tour of ABSINTHE
will feature several of the
outstanding
acts
currently
featured in the Las Vegas
production with some additional
new surprises.
Spiegelworld’s
Impresario,
Australian Ross Mollison, says of
the impending Australian tour,
“ABSINTHE is now considered a
must see for visitors to Las Vegas. I
am thrilled to be bringing our
biggest ever hit production home
before we head off to tour the rest
of the world.”
Tickets
for
ABSINTHE
in
Melbourne are on sale now.
For information on the ABSINTHE
Australian tour please visit www.
absintheaustralia.com
ABSINTHE by Spiegelworld
Melbourne : March 21 – April 5
2015 under the spiegeltent on the
Rooftop at Crown Melbourne
Performance Schedule:
Tuesday / Wednesday - 8:00pm
Thursday / Friday / Saturday 7:30pm and 9:30pm
Sunday - 5:00pm & 7:00pm
Tickets:
Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday:
$54.00 - $134.00**
Friday/Saturday/Sunday: $64.00 $154.00**
*VIP Ringside Tickets are available
and include a seat in the front 2
rows, priority entry and a
complimentary beverage.
**transaction fees and charges
may apply
Bookings: www.ticketek.com.au
Group Bookings are available to
groups of 6 or more. Contact the
Ticketek Group Bookings
Department on 1300 364 001 or
email
groupbookings@ticketek.com.au
Show duration: 90 minutes with
no interval
ABSINTHE
is
recommended
for ages 15 and above. The
performance
features
some
nudity and strong language.
For more information about
Spiegelworld please visit www.
spiegelworld.com
Photo Las Vegas cast of Absinthe
by Tom Donoghue
March 2015
Fifty~Plus News ­­­­­21
Arts & Entertainment
PATRICK ROBERTS
AUSTRALIA’S GLOBAL
VIOLIN SENSATION
John Wolseley – Heartlands and Headwaters
ZIMRAH
BRILLIANT VOCAL GROUP
ALLY PATERSON
LIZ AND SIMON NYGAARD
AMANDA TUOHY
SOPRANO, ARTIST
& SPEAKER
Spectacular Fundraising
Concert
MATTHEW FIELD
OUTSTANDING CONCERT
PIANIST
A
ith The Sta
W
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g
rs!
Ni
FE
RIN
AT U
ANDREW KITCHEN OF ‘RIDLEY’
INTERNATIONAL ROCK PERFORMER
MUSICIAN – SONGWRITER
t O utstanding Christian Pe
G Eigh
r for
Saturday, 18 April 2015
mer
s
FREEO TO YORKE TRIO
ANDREW (Soprano Saxophone)
& ELIZABETH FREEMANTLE (Violin),
ASHTON WYNN-YORKE
(Pianist, Singer, Songwriter)
7:30pm (sharp)
Diamond Valley Baptist
Auditorium
RICHARD THOMAS
OUTSTANDING MUSIC
THEATRE
PERFORMER/WEDDING
SINGER
TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE
Buy your tickets online at trybooking.com/GUOF or from the church office.
ALL ADULTS $30 (GENERAL ADMISSION) • CHILDREN $10 (15 years and under)
Drinks & Snack will be on sale as well as Performer’s CDs & DVDs
10023004-01-a25Feb©MMP
TIM ELLIS
INTERNATIONALLY
RENOWNED,
AWARD WINNING
ILLUSIONIST
309 Diamond Creek Road,
Plenty (Melway 11 D7)
For four years,
artist
John
Wolseley
has roamed
the
coastal
floodplains
of the Northern Territory through to the
glacial lakes of Tasmania, exploring and
recording in exquisite detail the diverse
wetlands of Australia. The works he has
created will be revealed at NGV Australia,
11 April 2015.
This series of eighteen evocative works
on paper, many of them monumental in
scale (up to 10 metres in size), detail the
geographical features and unique plants
and animals of these wetlands in works
characterised by minutely-observed
drawing and rich watercolour washes.
Many works combine collage and unusual
markings made through burying works
or hoisting large sheets of paper across
the charred remains of burnt tree trunks
and branches. Through this ‘collaboration’
with the natural environment, Wolseley
subverts traditional approaches to the
depiction of landscape and seeking to
give the natural world a more active
presence in the work of art
‘Heartlands and Headwaters celebrates
A u s t r a l i a ’s
unique
and
diverse natural
environment,’
said
Tony
Ellwood,
Director, NGV. ‘Wolseley’s work is not only
of great beauty, but also demonstrates
how depicting the landscape has become
an important form of activism’.
The mangrove swamps of Roebuck Bay
in Western Australia, the flood plains of
the Gulf of Carpentaria in the Northern
Territory, the Finke River in the Simpson
Desert and the sphagnum swamps of
Skullbone Plains in central Tasmania are
just some of the sites detailed in these
impressive works.
The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia at
Federation Square |
11 April – 16 August, 2015 Free Entry
Image caption: John Wolseley
Cycles of fire and water – Lake Tyrrell,
Victoria 2011–12
Private collection
© John Wolseley/Licensed by VISCOPY,
Australia
Want to advertise in our
The Golden Age of China: Qianlong Emperor (r. 1736–1795)
NGV International 27 March – 21 June, 2015
Admission Fees Apply
Hidden treasures from Beijing’s Palace Museum in the
Forbidden City will come to Melbourne for the first time, in
an Australian exclusive exhibition. The Golden Age of China:
Qianlong Emperor (r. 1736–1795) tells the story of China’s
foremost art collector Qianlong Emperor, one of China’s
most successful rulers and longest living emperor of the
Qing dynasty (1644-1911).
This exhibition provides an unprecedented opportunity
to explore a rich concentration of more than 120 works
from the Palace Museum’s art collection, which is built on
the imperial collection of the Ming and Qing dynasties and
holds some of China’s most rare and valuable works of art in
its collection.
Tony Ellwood, Director, NGV, said, “This exhibitions tells the
fascinating narrative of one of China’s most influential rulers
and a great champion of the arts, whose passion saw him
become one of China’s foremost collectors and conservators
of art. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see exquisite
works from Beijing’s Palace Museum in Australia and visitors
will be able to see stunning ink on silk paintings, dragonembroidered silk court robes, precious objet d’art in gold and
jade, as well as Qianlong’s own paintings and calligraphy,” Mr
Ellwood said.
The Qianlong emperor’s long 60-year reign (1736-1795)
was a particularly fascinating time in China’s history. During
his reign, China was the wealthiest and most populous
nation in the world. Qianlong’s ability to preserve and foster
his Manchu warrior-huntsman traditions whilst adopting
the Confucian principles of political and cultural leadership,
resulted in the successfully governing of 150 million Chinese
people. It was his ability to adopt Chinese ways, yet honour
his Manchu traditions that made him one of the most
successful emperors of the Qing dynasty.
The Qianlong Emperor studied Chinese painting, loved
to paint and particularly loved to practice calligraphy. The
Emperor was also a passionate poet and essayist and over
40,000 poems and 1300 pieces of prose are recorded in
his collected writings. Qianlong wrote more poetry in his
lifetime than all the poets in the Tang dynasty (618-906)
combined, a dynasty known for its Golden age of poetry.
Aside from his own art practice, Qianlong combined his
passion for collecting art with his role as preserver and
restorer of the Chinese cultural heritage. He also embraced
the arts of other cultures, European, Japanese and Indian.
The exhibition will also show paintings and calligraphy
by the emperor himself as well as classical paintings in
his collection. There will also be a sumptuous display of
ceremonial weapons of swords, bows and arrow, a chair
made of antlers’ horns; silk court robes and ceremonial hats,
amongst other ceremonial and palace treasures.
There will be a sensory element within the exhibition,
complete with music and Forbidden City-like interiors,
immersing visitors in a day in the life of Qianlong, to evoke
the experience of the imperial court.
The Golden Age of China: Qianlong Emperor (1736–1795)
will be at NGV International from March 27 – June 15, 2015.
Please visit ngv.vic.gov.au for details.
Image caption: Qianlong Emperor in ceremonial armour on
horseback
清人画弘历戎装骑马像轴
Qing dynasty, Qianlong period 1736–1795
coloured inks on silk
The Palace Museum, Beijing
Arts and Events pages?
Email Genine at contact@
fiftyplusnews.com
Mindgames solutions
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Wonderwords Solution:
Adit, Aide, Dale, Date, Deal, Dial, Dual, Idea,
Lade, Laid,
Late, Laud, Lead, Quad, Tail, Tale, Teal, Adieu,
Adult, Ailed, Audit,
Dealt, Delta, Equal, Ideal, Quail, Tidal, Detail,
Dilate, Tailed,
Liquate, Quailed, Tequila, Liquated.
Nine-letter word: LIQUIDATE
A
K
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­­­­­22
Fifty~Plus News
Review: film
by Julian Lewis
STILL ALICE ****
This powerful and moving portrayal of
an otherwise bright and healthy 50-yearold professor who is diagnosed with early
onset Alzheimer’s will deeply touch anyone
who has ever had any connection with this
dreadful, degenerative disease, with Julianne
Moore superb as the wife and mother trying
desperately to fight the reality of her failing
memory and to maintain some semblance of
her former life and personality in a battle she
knows she is destined to lose. One of those
rare American ‘issue’ films that vividly bring
home in a manner that is both engrossing
and dignified the ramifications of such
tragic situations not only for those directly
involved but also educating those whose lives
have as yet been spared the impact of such
devastation. See it with someone you love, or
for someone you love, but whatever you do go
see it.
PLEASE JOIN US AND
SUPPORT THE “MAKEA-WISH-FOUNDATION”
Marinda’s Ballroom Dancing
Want to lose weight? Make new friends?
Have fun in a friendly environment? Come
and learn how to shake and groove! We will
Tango, Waltz, Foxtrot, Rumba, Quickstep,
Samba, learn Progressives and basic Rock and
Roll. Not to mention Jiving and a bit of line
dancing thrown in for fun.
Where?
KILMORE – Tuesday’s –Social Ballroom
7.30-10pm beginners/intermediates - Lessons
KILMORE MEMORIAL HALL NORTHERN HWY
KILMORE
LALOR – Wednesday’s – Social Ballroom
6.30-7.30pm - Beginners Lessons
7-8pm - Lessons Intermediate/Advanced
8-10.30pm – Social Dance
FRENCH ST HALL, 47A FRENCH ST LALOR
GLEN WAVERLEY – Sunday’s – Social Ballroom
12pm-4pm - Beginners/Intermediate –
(including social dance)
SCOUTS HALL, WHITES LANE GLEN WAVERLEY
MONTHLY SOCIAL DANCE NIGHTS - 2015
1st Saturday month – FRENCH ST HALL, 47A
FRENCH ST, LALOR
3rd Saturday month – EPPING MEMORIAL
HALL, 827 HIGH ST EPPING
5th Saturday month – EPPING MEMORIAL
HALL, 827 HIGHT ST EPPING
4th Friday month – SCOUTS HALL, WHITES
LANE, GLEN WAVERLEY
NEW YEAR’S EVE SOCIAL - THURSDAY 31ST
DECEMBER
CHARITY GALA’S - DINNER DANCE BALLS –
2015
BLACK & WHITE GALA BALL- DINNER DANCE SATURDAY 21st FEBRUARY
MASQUERADE GALA BALL DINNER DANCE SATURDAY 15TH AUGUST
XMAS DINNER DANCE- SATURDAY 19TH
DECEMBER
CONTACT: MARINDA 0425861109
Marinda.Sijmons@bigpond.com
www.marindasdancing.com
Arts & Entertainment
March 2015
Arts & Events Digest
Embroidery & Craft Exhibition
Wonderful creations created by
CWA Ladies
On exhibit & Sales 7th to 22nd
March 2015 10am to 4pm
Sponsored by “Yarra Valley CWA
Craft Group” Wandin: 03 9735
3732
At Warratina Lavender Farm 105
Quayle Rd, Wandin
ENTRY: $2 Donation CONTACT: Warratina Lavender Farm Ph:
03 5964 4650
Email: enquiries@warratinalavender.com.au
TURKISH PAZAR FESTIVAL
Queen
Victoria
Market,
Melbourne Sunday March 15
commencing @ 10.30 am. The
Turkish Pazar Festival is a day
of traditional Turkish music and
colourful folklore performances.
See arts and crafts and learn new
skills. Buy a magic Turkish carpet,
sit in the Turkish tea garden, enjoy tasty and economical
foods including gozleme (savoury pancakes), even plan a trip
to Turkey. Sing along with visiting Turkish performers, see
the authentic Ottoman style marching band and have your
fortune told. A fun filled day for all ages. Entry is Free.
ARJ BARKER - GET IN MY HEAD
What are you waiting for? Hop on in and let’s ride. There’s
plenty of room in here. Join me and together we’ll contemplate
everything from the social evolution of humanity, to the
intriguing and elusive nature of non-sexually derived boners.
I’ll even mention fondue at some point, and that’s a promise.
So take a load off your mind and get into mine already!
Melbourne International Comedy Festival
Main Hall, Melbourne Town Hall
26 Mar to 19 April 2015, various times (see to Festival website
for details) www.comedyfesival.com.au or www.ticketmaster.
com.au
www.arjbarker.com
WOMANz is the rule-breakin’ show that made Melbourne
Fringe history by taking out three awards for the first time,
including the prestigious Most Outstanding Comedy. Partshow, part-party, it shines the spotlight on ridiculous gender
stereotypes and dances them out of the door under the
spinning disco ball.
Venue: Melbourne Town Hall - Lunch Room
Dates: Thurs 26 March - Sun 19 April (not Mondays), Previews
26 and 27 March
Tickets: Full $27, Concession $24, Laugh Pack $22, Preview
and Tightarse Tuesdays $20
Times: 9:45pm (8:45pm on Sundays)
Bookings: http://www.comedyfestival.com.au
JOHN MAWURNDJUL AND GULUMBU YUNUPINGU:
EARTH AND SKY
TARRAWARRA MUSEUM OF ART, 28 MARCH – 8 JUNE 2015
Bark paintings by two of the most outstanding Indigenous
artists of our time will be featured at TarraWarra Museum of
Art, 28 March – 8 June 2015.
The works of John Mawurndjul and Gulumbu Yunupingu will
feature in an exhibition curated by Hetti Perkins titled Earth
and Sky. The title of the exhibition refers to the respective
subjects of the two artists’ practice. The curator of Earth and
Sky, Hetti Perkins states: ‘In bringing the work of these two
artists together, the exhibition will offer a panoptic view of
‘country’ from an Indigenous perspective. Both artists engage
with and represent the natural world in a highly sophisticated
and conceptual aesthetic form. Their work distils the spiritual
nature of this engagement in work that resonates with a
power that is both ceremonial and celebratory’
Don’t Stop Me Now!
Melbourne has never, ever seen a fashion show quite like
this one. It proves that flair and fun can go on forever. Called
Don’t Stop Me Now!, it’s just one of U3A Melbourne City’s
year long celebrations to mark its 30th birthday. On Sunday
15 March 2015 at 1.00pm in the ANZ Pavilion at Arts Centre
Melbourne, all will be revealed. Melbourne Fashion Festival
Stars of the show are U3A Melbourne City members brilliantly
transformed into breathtakingly cheer worthy runway
models.’ ‘The models, with one exception, are all new to the
catwalk and have been training hard. Their combined age is
1054 years.
Date: Sunday 15 March 2015 Time:1.00pm Venue: ANZ
Pavilion, Level 8, Arts Centre Melbourne,
100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne Tickets: $30 each, available only
through Ticketek.
For a limited time, Melbourne
residents have the opportunity
to get up-close to a selection
of the stunning costumes from
TOTEM, the awe-inspiring Cirque
du Soleil production now playing
under the Big Top at Flemington
Racecourse. The exhibition of
six costumes from TOTEM will be on display at Southgate
Centre on the Level 1 Mezzanine from March 5 to 23 2015.
These costumes represent the wonderful work of Australia’s
own Kym Barrett, the TOTEM costume designer who is best
known around the world for her work in films including Baz
Luhrmann’s Romeo + Juliet, and the The Matrix.
BREAST BEATERS a health and music program for Yarra
Ranges women living with breast cancer
Breast Beaters (BB) is an innovative outreach program aiming
to improve health and social outcomes for women living
with breast cancer in the Yarra Ranges region, through
combining singing, music and lymphoedema-management
exercises. The program aims to add some fun to the exercises,
encouraging higher levels of participation in this important
health activity.
Musician in Residence Jeannie Marsh is creating a medley of
songs to accompany upper-body exercises for the daily use
of women living with breast cancer. A DVD of the music and
exercises will be produced for women to use at home, and in
monthly group sessions at local community centres. The music
is varied in style (including Latin, classical, R and B, Celtic),
and includes opportunities for easy singing. Lymphoedema
Therapist Maria Stirling is the health professional consultant
in the project. The exercises are slow and simple, and are
suitable for women of all ages and fitness levels.
Following the completion of the Pilot Study, results will be
collated, the program will be refined in response to feedback,
and final BB materials will be prepared for the official launch
of the program in May 2015.
If you know someone who is interested in being part of the
Pilot Study the registration form and information can be
found at www.drmc.org.au
For more information about the Breast beaters program
contact Musician in Residence Jeannie Marsh at jeannie.
marsh1@gmail.com or Mobile: 0432 088 284
M¡longa
1-5 April 2015, State
Theatre
The art of tango
has
captivated
the world with its
sexuality, power and
beauty for centuries,
and
M¡longa
is
a
fascinating
exploration of this traditional dance from a contemporary
perspective. With an incredibly talented cast of fifteen
Argentinean dancers and live musicians, M¡longa draws
on Argentinian influences whilst also infusing aspects of
the 21st century into the movement.
1-5 April 2015 State Theatre Arts Centre Melbourne
To book visit www.artscentremelbourne.com.au or
phone 1300 182 183
Let’s Go !
March 2015
June 2013
Fifty~Plus News ­­­­­23
The Romance of Rail and Sail Travel
TOURFifty~Plus
SPECIALS
News 17
Arts & Entertainment
5 DAY NSW SAPPHIRE COAST
and its region
Modern classic returns A portrait of Geelong
to Melbourne stage
few days checking out the wonders of
our Northern capital and surrounding
highlight destinations, including
Kakadu and Litchfield National Park.
AN exhibition now at Geelong Gallery preEnjoy the beautiful Darwin sunsets
sents a fascinating view of the port city and its
with a refreshing beverage or two.region through artistic representations rangThen board the mighty Ghaningtoacross 150 years.
WIDELY recognised as a modern
Through almost 70 paintings, drawings, prints
classic and one of the great artistic
and photographs drawn from the gallery’s
achievements of the 20th century,
Two on
holidays
most returns
travellersto have
nationally significant collection, Impressions of
Einstein
the Beach,
on theirfor
list an
is aexclusive
cruise andseason
a great rail
Geelong surveys the development of the city
Australia
Call Trevor or Claire right now on
journey.
Imagine
having
them
both
in
from the period soon after European settlement
at Arts Centre Melbourne from 31
9782 0367 or email grouptravel@
the
same
tour package!
to more contemporary times. The exhibition also
July
until
4 August.
bigpond.com to request your copy.
Fly direct
to opera
Sydney
to board
highlights the natural beauty and geographical
Described
as an
in four
acts, the
Book early, don’t miss out!
Princess
andofwhile
away the
theDiamond
collaborative
work
director
This new production by the original diversity of the surrounding region.
days Wilson
travelling
the East Philip
coast with
A focal point of the exhibition is Eugene von
Robert
andupcomposer
creative team, including choreograa
port
call
in
picturesque
Port
Douglas
Guerard’s
famous View of Geelong (1856), along
Glass encompasses dance, visual arts, pher Lucinda Childs is a chance for
before
arriving
in
Darwin.
Spend
a
with
another
work by von Guerard. Rarely seen
opera, theatre and music and was a new generation to come to know
historical
works
by artists John Skinner Prout,
an immediate international success Einstein
on the
Beach and
thoseof our
travel
through
the for
heart
ST
Gill,
William
Duke,
Walter Withers and Arthur
from its first production in Avignon who continent.
Enjoy choosing
your off
have experienced
its power to
Streeton
will
also
be
on display, along with a
in 1976. Although there have been be enthralled
train experiences
on the way to
again.
selection
of
modern
and
contemporary landmany performances in Europe and
Adelaideabefore
a final
flight of
home to
Comprising
touring
company
scapes
by
Lina
Bryans,
Marion
Manifold, Mahgo
New York and a production was part 62 members,
Melbourne.
Einstein on the Beach
Smith-Armstrong
and
Jan
Senbergs.
of the 1992 Melbourne Festival, its runs for
This
tourhours
package
fourfantastic
and-a-half
with- has so
epic scale means that it is a rare treat out interval.
many inclusions
you isreally
needThe
to recently acquired, and rare, Robert Hoddle
The audience
able to
watercolour
Near Melbourne — Station Peak and
for Melbourne theatregoers.
brochure
to appreciate
leavesee
andthe
re-enter
the auditorium
if them.
Anakie
Youang
(sic) in the distance (1847) appears
Inspired by Einstein’s numerical they The
wish.romance of a rail and sail once in a
alongside
specially
commissioned photographs
theorems and mathematical breaklifetime
awaits
you.
Einstein
on holiday
the Beach
is at
State
by
John
Gollings.
Both
works, which will be on
throughs the work breaks all of the Theatre,
Don’tArts
forget
to enquire
about the free
Centre
Melbourne,
display
for
the
first
time,
feature
the zigzag profile
rules of conventional opera, using at 7pm
home
return service.
31pick
Julyuptoand
3 August
with
of
the
You
Yangs,
an
ancient
site
of spiritual sigpowerful images in juxtaposition a 1pm matinee Sunday 4 August.
nificance
for
the
original
indigenous
peoples of
with abstract dance sequences www.artscentremelbourne.com.
value
of
$200.
the
district
and
a
landmark
that
has
long
been an
choreographed by Lucinda Childs. au, 1300 182 183.
From Africa to Alaska, Collette has unique options to suit
all travellers..
For more information, call 1300 792 195 or visit www.
Collette, one of the world’s major and most prestigious
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Leading US Travel Company
launches in Australia
Departure Monday 4th May
Accommodation Coachmans Rest in Eden
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Cost $895.00 p/p T/share
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Early bookings are essential.
14 DAY QUEENSLAND
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Departure Thursday 14th May, 2015
Featuring visits to the Stockman’s Hal of Fame,
QANTAS Founders Museum, Cattle Station Visit,
Kurandah Sky Rail, Palm Cove & Port Douglas and
much more.
Cost $4895 pp t/share
*Single supplement $690 extra
Robert Hoddle: Near Melbourne—Station Peak
and Anakie Youang (sic) in the distance 1847,
11 DAY
EASTERN
watercolour
Collection:
Geelong COASTAL
Gallery. Purchased
through TOUR
donations, 2012.
Departure Thursday 28th May
inspiration
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and Kuranda,
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Includes Cairns,
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Hervey Bay,
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“Impressions
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Air fareGeelong’s
to Cairns & waterfront,
Sydney to
a Macquarie
journey that
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Melbourne. the popular coastal
rivers, parks and streetscapes,
$3995 pp t/share
destinations ofCost
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as well as the unmistakable landmark of the You
Yangs,” says curator Lisa Sullivan.
Impressions
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of TOP
the city
10 DAY RED
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and its region is at Geelong Gallery, Little Malop
END
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52292015
3645, www.
Featuring visits to Uluru, Alice Springs, Standley
geelonggallery.org.au
Chasm, Legendary Ghan, Kakadu and more.
Cost Pensioner $4985 pp t/share
Cost Non Pensioner $5269 pp t/share
*Single supplement $730 extra
Exhibition shines light on Monet’s art and life
United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, has now
THE opportunity the NGV’s Winter Masterpiece exhibi- Australia and is at the National Gallery of Victoria, St Kilda
opened offices in Australia.
tion, Monet’s Garden, offers to gain real insights into the Road, until 8 September. Tickets $26/$22.50.
With a proud history of nearly 100 years’ experience
way the French Impressionist used colour, light and an
specialising only in guided travel, Collette offers 160
Monet and the Plants Men
evocative use of the surface of his canvasses to record
escorted tours to destinations on all seven continents and
Among the many events scheduled to coincide with
the ever-changing beauty of the garden he created
boasts a 98% worldwide customer satisfaction rating from
at Giverny, is probably just one of the reasons why Monet’s Garden, including a comprehensive program
its tour survey returns for the past five years.
presented by the NGV, the Friends of the Royal Botanic
Melburnians will love this exhibition.
Collette’s Vice President of Service & International Business,
Once known as ‘The Garden City’, Melbourne is still home Gardens have several linked events from botanical
Christian Leibl-Cote, was in Australia for the launch and will
to a huge number of garden lovers who will relish the illustration workshops to illustrated talks. Sophie
lead Collette’s new team in Australia. Alison Mead, Business
Matthiesson, curator of international art at the NGV,
chance
to experience
more
of thissays,
famous
gardencaters
through
Manager
of Collette
Australia
”Collette
well to
will give an illustrated talk, Monet and the Plants Men
Monet’s
eyes.
the over 45+ market and offers small groups with well paced
on Wednesday 26 June at 6 for 6.30pm, at Mueller Hall,
“Through
these
paintings,
visitors
will
experience
every
tours.”
National Herbarium, RBG Melbourne. Ms Matthiesson
aspect
of
Monet’s
garden;
the
iconic
Japanese
footbridge,
To celebrate Collette’s grand opening in Australia, Collette
will talk about the plants men behind Monet’s famous
theiswaterlilies
othercredit
flowers
irises, agapanoffering anand
on-tour
forincluding
all new bookings
from now
garden, examining the international web of hortithus,
wisteria,
the
weeping
willow
and
the
alley
of
roses,”
to 31 May 2015, for travel to 31 December 2015. By booking
cultural expertise into which Monet tapped for the
says
Director,
Tonyand
Ellwood.
a NGV
Collette
holiday
selecting the preferred on-tour
creation of his living masterpiece. Bookings: www.
Monet’s
Garden
is
organised
by
the
Musee
Marmottan
optional sightseeing activities, they will be included to the
Monet, Paris, in association with the NGV and Art Exhibitions rbgfriendsmelbourne or 9650 6398.
5 DAY PORT STEPHENS &
HUNTER VALLEY
Departure Tuesday 21st July, 2015
Cost $1495 pp t/share
*Single supplement $280 extra
8 DAY FLINDERS RANGES
Departure Friday 18th September, 2015
Including Arkaarola and Wilpena Pound
Cost $2495 pp t/share
*Single supplement $475 extra
5 DAY CANBERRA FLORIADE
Departure Monday 28th September
All incl Cost $1195.00 pp t/share
*Single supplement $320 extra
Claude Monet, Waterlilies, evening effect (Nymphéas,
effet du soir) (1897), Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris
16ofDAY
SAIL
Gift
MichelRAIL
Monet,-1966
(inv.PACKAGE
5167)
Departure Thursday 22nd October, 2015
includes the Diamond Princess Cruise
from Sydney to Darwin with six nights
accommodation in Darwin followed by two nights
aboard the Ghan to Adelaide includes air fares
Melbourne to Sydney and Adelaide to Melbourne
Price to be advised.
Dreaming of the Sunshine Coast?
Autumn/Winter
SPECIALS
16 DAY NEW ZEALAND
Departure Saturday November 14th
includes both North & South Islands
Cost $4399.00 p/p t/share
Single supplement $1070.00 extra
Plus taxes.
26 Day stays 2 bedroom apartment
with sea views
at $500 per week
Impressions
ofupGeelong—
Free home pick
and return
available
a portrait of service
the city
and its region
Group Travel Marketing
Pandanus Coolum Beach Resort
Email or call us today: seaviews@pandanuscoolumbeach.com.au
Web: www.pandanuscoolumbeach.com • Phone: 07 5446 3905
Licensed Tour Operators
until 25 August
Over 150 years of artistic interpretations
of the historic port city of Geelong and
its surrounding districts.
14 day stays 2 bedroom apartment
with sea views
at $560 per week
Ph 9782 0367
all hours
or email:
grouptravel@bigpond.com
www.grouptravelmarketing.com
Eugene von Guérard
View of Geelong 1856
oil on canvas
Collection: Geelong Gallery
Geelong
Gallery
Little Malop Street
Geelong 3220
T +61 3 5229 3645
Free entry
Open daily 10 am – 5pm
Guided tours of the
permanent collection
Saturday from 2pm
i e n d s tNews
o travel
­­­­­ F
2
4 rFifty~Plus
with....
March 2015
Join O’Shannessy’s for a holiday
you’ll never forget!
Prices Include: All meals (including morning teas and most lunches) quality ensuite motel and resort
accommodation, all entry fees to interest venues and cruises, travel by O’Shannessy’s new 5 star coaches
equipped with 2 doors, seat belts and rest room. Patrons are not expected to handle luggage. All prices
are per person twin share and include GST. All coach tours hostess escorted. Prices include Flights where
applicable.
WINNER Australian Achievers Awards for
Excellence in Customer Service
Repeat Clientele and Group Discounts Apply
Easter in Gippsland
Apr 3-7, 2015 • 5 Days $1,665
Easter in Broken Hill
Apr 3-8, 2015 • 6 Days $1,845
Highlights: Broken Hill, Royal Flying Doctor
Base, Silver City Mine and Art Gallery, Silverton,
Pro Harts Gallery, Jack Absolom’s Gallery, Living
Desert Sclupture Symposium, Australian Inland
Botanic Garden – Mildura and Donald.
Southern Highlands Scottish Festival
Apr 9-14, 2015 • 6 Days $1,895
Highlights: ABC Cheese Factory – Bega,
Batemans Bay, Fitzroy Falls, Brigadoon –
Scottish Festival, Red Cow Farm, International
Cricket Hall of Fame, Bowral, Joadja Ghost
Town, Cooma Cottage – Yass, Crisps Artglass
Studio, Bandiana Base Military Museum.
High Country to the Murray Delta
Includes The Man From Snowy River Bush Festival
April 10-20, 2015 • 11 Days $3,395
Highlights: Man from Snowy River Museum,
Corryong, MV Paradise Queen Cruise – Lake
Mulwala, Byramine Homestead, Port of Echuca
tour, Sharps Magic Movie House, Pride of the
Murray cruise, Flying Boat Museum, Lake
Boga, Pioneer Settlement Museum – Swan Hill,
PS Pyap Cruise, Woodsies Gem Shop,
PS Rothbury cruise, Trentham Estate Winery,
Missy cruise – Berri, Loxton Historic village,
Mannum, Victor Harbor, WA Whale Centre,
Coorong Discovery Cruise, Keith, Brambuk
Aboriginal Cultural Centre – Halls Gap and
Ararat.
Flinders Ranges Outback
Apr 15 -23, 2015 •9 Days $3,195
Lord Howe Island
Apr 18-24, 2015 •7 Days $4,295
Sydney Blue Mountains
Apr 21-29, 2015 • 9 Days $3,075
Highlights: Weary
Dunlop
Memorial,
Benalla, Humes Cooma Cottage, Goulburn,
Hawkesbury
River
Cruise,
Sydney,
Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, Bondi Beach,
Vaucluse House, Rushcutters Bay, Rocks
area, Dinner Cruise on the Harbour, Olympic
Village, Richmond, Blue Mountains Botanic
Gardens, Govetts Leap Lookout, Three Sisters,
Scenic World – Railway, Cable car, Skyway.
Grose Valley, Everglades House & Gardens,
Jenolan Caves, Hartley Historic Village, Bathurst
Mount Panorama, P.O.W. breakout – Cowra,
Japanese Gardens, Wagga Wagga and Albury.
Murray River Run –
Wellington to Border Cliffs
Apr 25 – May 2, 2015 •8 Days $2,995
Highlights: The Grampians National Park,
Mannum Dock Museum, Aboriginal Tour at
Kroehn’s Landing, Historic River Port of Morgan,
Redgum Forests, Banrock Station, Barmera,
Renmark, Waikerie, Mannum, Kamakazi Flats,
Chowilla Station, Customs House at SA/Vic
Border, Pass through 6 river locks, Wimmera
Plains/Mallee, Mildura.
Bright Autumn Colours
Apr 30 – May 4, 2015 •5 Days $1,485
Pumpkin Festival – Collector NSW
Apr 30 – May 6, 2015 •7 Days $2,185
Highlights: Benalla, EV Olives, Albury,
Rusconi’s Marble Masterpiece, Cooma Cottage,
Goulburn, St Saviours Cathedral, Old Goulburn
Brewery, Garroorigang Homestead, Pumpkin
Festival - Collector NSW, Crookwell Wind Farm,
Lindner Sock Factory, Crystal Brook Lavender
Farm, Crisps Artglass Gallery, Monte Cristo
Historical Homestead, Wagga Wagga, Corowa
Chocolate Factory.
Yorke and Eyre Peninsulas
May 6 – 15, 2015 •10 Days $3,095
Port Stephens & The Hunter Valley
May 8 – 17, 2015 •10 Days $3,475
Highlights: Darnum Musical Village, Lakes
Entrance, Orbost Exhibition Centre, Bega
Heritage Centre, Batemans Bay, Kiama - Blow
Hole, Shoal Bay - Port Stephens, Moonshadow
Dolphin Cruise, Tailor Made Fish Farm, Nelson
Bay, Hunter Valley Gardens, Newcastle - Talking
Tram Tour, Fighter World - RAAF Williamtown,
Upper Hunter Valley, Darley Stud, Denman,
Meet the Locals - Hawkesbury River Cruise,
Bathurst - Crago Fountain, Australian Fossil
& Mineral Museum, Japanese Gardens –
Cowra, Junee - Liquorice & Chocolate Factory,
NEW FOR
Botanical Gardens – Albury.
2014
Murray Princess
May 10 – 16, 2015 •7 Days $3,095
Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour
May 18 – 26, 2015 •7 Days $2,745
Highlights: Benalla, Tumut,
Southern
Highlands, Red Cow Farm, Sydney, Newcastle,
Port Macquarie, St Thomas Church, Ricardoes
Tomatoes & Strawberries, Hastings River, Koala
Hospital, South West Rocks - Trial Bay Gaol,
Coffs Harbour - Bruxner Park, Forest Sky Pier,
Big Banana, Bunker Cartoon Gallery, Carobana
Confectionery, Bellinger Valley – Bellingen,
Dorrigo Plateau - Dangar Falls, Skywalk,
Rainforest Centre, Honey Place, The Clog Barn
For enquiries or bookings call
Chris O’Shannessy and the team on
FREE
CALL
1800 354 352
Visit us on the web at www.oshannessys.com.au
Nagambie and Swan Hill
Whitsunday Experience
May 20 – 24, 2015 •5 Days $1,795
Jul 16 – 23, 2015 •8 Days $ 3,545
Outback QLD – Longreach
May 28 – Jun 9, 2015 •13 Days $3,995
Sydney – Vivid Lights
Overseas Tours
LIMITED SEATS AVAILABLE BOOK EARLY TO
AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT
Jun 2 – 9, 2015 • 8 Days $2,685
(Coach only)
Jun 3 – 7, 2015 •5 Days $2,345
(Fly in – Fly out)
Vietnam
April 8-20, 2015 • 13Days $5,215
Includes an overnight cruise on Halong Bay
Norfolk Island – Bounty Day
Jun 5 – 13, 2015
•9 Days $4,445
Tropical Far North Queensland
NEW FOR
Jun 17 – Jul 4, 2015 •18 Days $6,395
2014
Winter Wonderland – Creswick
Jun 19 – 22, 2015 • 4 Days $1,485
Red Centre and Top End
Jun 22 – Jul 8, 2015 •17 Days $6,395
(Flight Option)
Jun22 – Jul 10, 2015 •19 Days $7,495
(Ghan Option)
Central Australia
European Mediterranean Cruise
Barcelona to Venice
Sept 14-Oct 9, 2015 • 26 Days
From $14,095 (Includes airfares)
On board the Norwegian Spirit for 12 nights.
Then we enjoy a coach tour of Italy
Includes stopovers both ways in Singapore.
Jun 22 – Jul1, 2015 •10 Days $3,795
Lake Eyre in Flood
Jun 22 – 26, 2015 •4 days $TBA
Mississippi Cruise
The Top End
Jun 28 – Jul 8, 2015 •11 Days $5,195
(Flight Option)
Jun 28 – Jul 10, 2015 •13 Days $6,195
(Ghan Option)
October 5-21, 2015 •17 Days $TBA
New Orleans to Memphis on the American
Eagle Paddle Wheeler
Includes stopovers both ways in Dallas.
(pic not actual boat)
Port Douglas / Cairns –
Tropical Escape
Jul 6 – 13, 2015 •8 Days $3,595
New Zealand Garden Tour
Head of the Bight – Whale Watching
Jul 8 – 15, 2015 •8 Days $ 2,415
(coach)
Jul 8 – 13, 2015 •6 Days $ 2,165
(fly in – fly out)
Oct 29 - Nov 14, 2015 • 17 Days $6,995
Featuring Taranaki and Marlborough
Garden Festivals
Free Chauffeured Home
Pick-up and Return
All suburbs of Greater Melbourne,
Ballarat, Geelong, the Bellarine &
Mornington Peninsulas, Bendigo &
some areas of Gippsland, including
Warragul.
O’Shannessy’s Sorrento Travel Pty Ltd trading as
2121 Point Nepean Rd, Rye, Victoria 3941