AUTHENTIC DISCOUNT FOOD OUTLET Hours: Tues - Fri 9am - 1.30pm, Sat: 8am - 12.30pm 127 Lahrs Rd Ormeau AUTHENTIC CHURCH A MINISTRY OF P: (07) 5527 0314 | M: 0411 134 507 info@localnewsletters.com | www.localnewsletters.com February 2026 - No. 129 Gold Coast FREE! Over Fifties WIN! CONCERT TICKETS, GIFT CARDS, Book Giveaway! *for illustration purposes only La Clique Returns to HOTA in 2026 After Spectacular Sold-Out Season Following an extraordinary sold-out season at HOTA, Home of the Arts in 2025, the internationally acclaimed cabaret sensation La Clique will return to the precinct in 2026 for an encore season of high-octane circus, comedy, music, and jaw-dropping spectacle. A global phenomenon born at the Edinburgh Fringe and enjoyed in major cities around the world, La Clique has earned a cult following for its distinctive blend of provocative cabaret, breathtaking physical feats, and world-class variety performance. The show’s return in March 2026 promises an all-new lineup of artists alongside signature favourites, bringing back the risqué atmosphere, glamour, and boundary-pushing artistry that captivated audiences last year. “La Clique was a runaway success at HOTA in 2025, and audience demand for its return was immediate. We’re thrilled to welcome this world-class production back to the Gold Coast for another season of bold and unforgettable spectacle,” Experience Gold Coast, Head of Arts and Culture, Yarmila Alfonzetti said. Continued page 4
2 To make an appointment to view our apartments, please call Shelly on 5578 3433 or visit www.ehrv.com.au Earle Haven Independent Living Units Our one bedroom units include: •Courtesy shopping daily bus •Doctor’s surgery and 24 hour emergency care on site • Licenced restaurant and coffee shop open 7 days a week • Shopping centres and railway station close by •Swimming pool, lawn and indoor bowls, mini golf, croquet • Library and craft room •Maintenance and gardening incl. in fees • Optional Extra’s include- Three meals per day in dining room, weekly clean and heavy laundry service Prices Start from $120,000 (Studio) $140,000 (1 bedroom) Ten Easy Ways to Start Your Day on a Positive Note We all know mornings can go one of two ways. Some days you wake up feeling ready to take on the world. Other days, not so much. The good news is that you don’t need a perfect routine or boundless energy to start your day on the right foot — just a few simple habits that help you ease into the day feeling a little more positive. muscles and get the blood flowing. 4. Have something to look forward to It might be your morning coffee, a favourite radio show or sitting quietly with the paper. Starting the day with something you enjoy makes a big difference. 5. Eat something sensible Breakfast doesn’t have to be fancy. A piece of toast, fruit or a bowl of cereal gives your body fuel and helps avoid that mid-morning slump. 6. Drink a glass of water It’s a simple habit many of us forget. Hydrating early can help you feel more alert and refreshed. 7. Go easy on the news and social media There’s no rule that says you have to know everything first thing in the morning. If the headlines raise your blood pressure, leave them for later. 8. Take a quiet moment A minute of gratitude, a short prayer, or simply enjoying the silence can set As we get older, mornings can feel especially important. A good start can make the rest of the day feel smoother, while a rushed or stressful beginning can linger longer than we’d like. That’s why small, steady habits often work better than grand plans that are hard to stick to. Here are ten easy, realistic ways to set yourself up for a better morning. 1. Don’t rush out of bed If you can, give yourself a minute before jumping up. Stretch your arms, wiggle your toes and take a couple of slow breaths. It helps your body wake up gently — especially if joints aren’t as cooperative as they once were. 2. Let the light in Open the curtains or step outside for a moment. Natural light signals to your body that it’s time to get moving and can lift your mood surprisingly quickly. 3. Move, even just a little You don’t need a full workout. A short walk, a few stretches or pottering around the garden can loosen stiff a calmer tone for the day ahead. 9. Pick one thing to get done Instead of a long to-do list, choose just one thing you’d like to achieve. It gives the day some direction without feeling overwhelming. 10. Be kind to yourself Not every day will start well — and that’s okay. A positive morning isn’t about being cheerful all the time. It’s about meeting the day with patience and a bit of self-compassion. Starting your day on a positive note doesn’t mean everything will go perfectly. There will still be interruptions, unexpected phone calls and the odd curveball. But when you begin calmly and intentionally, you’re better equipped to handle whatever comes your way. Sometimes, the smallest changes in the morning can lead to the biggest improvements in how the rest of the day feels — and that’s well worth trying.
3 THE VILLAGE - HERITAGE B&B - INDULGENT HIGH TEA or CASUAL LUNCH or COFFEE & CAKE all homemade on site Wednesday to Sunday from 11am to 3pm 65 Railway St, Mudgeeraba www.thevillagebnb.com.au For more information and bookings please contact us Liz 0448 722 233 or Rich 0410 210 858 We also cater for groups, baby showers & family events (available 7 days if pre booked). heritagehightea thevillagebnb Catering Available BOOK NOW! Sat 14 Feb 3 COURSE ROMANTIC EVENING MEAL Limited seating - BYO $69pp The only night we open for dinner Metro Coach is looking for some wonderful people to join their team. Metro Coach provides quality and reliable school transport services for children with special needs and offers a dedicated door to door service. â Metro Coach has been servicing the Gold Coast from Coomera to Mudgeeraba and surrounding areas for 14 years providing daily school bus transport for students with a disability and has become an important partner with schools and families. â Metro Coach is proud of its wonderful and passionate employees who work effectively as a team and are friendly, reliable, timely and professional. â Metro Coach Management provides great office support to its employees and the community. â Metro Coach provides modern air-conditioned buses that are modified to be accessible for students travelling in wheelchairs. â All Metro Coach buses have a passenger assistant on the bus to supervise the students. â Every day Metro Coach brings passion and commitment to its important role in the Community. Metro Coach Needs You! To enquire about working with Metro Coach, see advert below or call (07) 5528 9166 or email admin@metrocoach.com.au Are you interested in Casual Work on our School Buses with Special Needs Children? POSITION REQUIREMENTS: â Excellent Customer Service skills & enjoy working with the Community â Must be courteous, reliable and have a strong focus to provide a safe journey for our passengers â School Days Only (We do not work during School Holidays) WANTED - SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS & PASSENGER ASSISTANTS To apply contact us at Metro Coach Pty Ltd Email: admin@metrocoach.com.au Phone: 07 5528 9166 COOMERA, PIMPAMA, ORMEAU, OXENFORD, HELENSVALE, SOUTHPORT, MUDGEERABA & SURROUNDING AREAS
4 New Coomera Hospital: A Game Changer for Local Health The Crisafulli Government is delivering for the Gold Coast with the release of the improved masterplan for the new Coomera Hospital, paving the way for construction to progress quickly throughout 2026 as part of the fully funded Hospital Rescue Plan. The new hospital will be delivered in two stages, featuring an emergency department, intensive care unit, operating theatres, maternity services, a multi-storey carpark, and more. Stage One will deliver 400 beds, along with acute and specialist services, by 2031, with an additional 200 beds to follow the next year. Additionally, Stage One will include: - Dedicated Paediatrics, Rehabilitation, and Mental Health IPUs. - Imaging, Pathology, Pharmacy, CSSD. - Allied Health, Outpatients, Education, Administration. - Back-of-house services: Supply, Food Services and BEMS. Stage Two will include: - Day Surgery and Procedure Centre - Minor Injuries Clinic - Renal dialysis - Day medical unit - Day oncology unit - Nuclear medicine - Dedicated palliative care IPU - Operating Theatres + Endoscopy Suite. Once built, the Coomera Hospital will also now include multi-storey carparking and well-planned connections to public transport making it easier for patients, visitors and staff travelling to and from the facility. This project is part of the Government’s commitment to restoring health services when Queenslanders need them most, after a decade of decline that contributed to Labor’s health crisis. MEMBER FOR THEODORE BOOTHMAN MP Mark 3 Cottonwood Place, Oxenford QLD 4210 theodore@parliament.qld.gov.au 3445 0100 markboothman.com MarkBoothmanTheodore mark_boothman Authorised by Mark Boothman MP, 3 Cottonwood Place, Oxenford QLD 4210. ADVERTISEMENT Cont from cover Featuring a rotating cast of international stars and underground icons, the 2026 season will once again transform HOTA into a realm of wonder where guests can expect impossible acrobatics, seductive cabaret, laughout-loud comedy, and a soundtrack that electrifies the room. Whether you’re returning for more or discovering La Clique for the first time, this limited 2026 season is set to be a highlight of the Gold Coast’s events calendar. La Clique | 26 Mar – 19 April 2026 Tickets from $49 | Recommended 18+ Lakeside Room, HOTA Central, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise For information, visit: https://hota.com.au/whats-on/live/circus/la-clique La Clique Returns The City of Gold Coast’s Free Tree Giveaway is back in 2026, offering a timely and meaningful opportunity for ratepayers to help green our region while enhancing urban biodiversity. Under this annual initiative, households can collect up to three free trees or shrubs to plant on their own properties — a simple but impactful way to boost our city’s canopy, support native wildlife habitats and help cool neighbourhoods as climate pressures increase. The program runs from January through June 2026, with a series of collection dates across the City’s suburbs. For ratepayers looking to take part from February to March, trees will be available at locations including Coomera (5 Feb), Maudsland (12 Feb), Robina (19 Feb) and Mermaid Waters (26 Feb), followed by Mudgeeraba (5 Mar), Oxenford (12 Mar), Runaway Bay (19 Mar) and Burleigh Heads (26 Mar). This giveaway is more than a freebie — it’s an invitation for residents to take ownership of urban greening. By placing trees where they live, people contribute directly to cleaner air, greater shade and a greener City of Gold Coast. For more information and locations https://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/ Free Tree Giveaway
5 Occupational Lung Disease Experts Burleigh Heads | Robina vbrlaw.com.au • Pleural plaques • Asbestosis • Mesothelioma • Lung cancer Call Sean Ryan on 0457 222 709
6 Tired of Broken Vertical Blinds? Blinds Don’t Open? Fabric Blades Faded? CALL RON 0438 724 834 No Call Out Fee or Minimum Charge SPECIAL PRICES FOR SENIORS We can fix them or replace Tracks only, New Blockout Blades or complete NEW Verticals with simple Wand Controls Varsity Lakes Community Resource Centre 20 Mattocks Rd, Varsity Lakes | (07) 5593 7006 | www.varsitylakes.org.au 1-ON-1 TECH HELP | CYBER SECURITY AWARENESS DISASTER PREPAREDNESS Bring your latest energy bill for quick savings checks EVERY WEEK ... Stay Safe online. Be prepared. Enjoy a coffee. CONNECTION CONFIDENCE COMMUNITY Discover... Through digital confidence, online safety & disaster preparedness VLCRC is a welcoming place to learn, connect & feel supported Social inclusion programs that make you feel right at home 'Coffee Cart on site' Join us for: • Cyber Security Awareness • 1-on-1 Tech Help (phones, tablets & computers) • Digital Literacy Support • Disaster Preparedness & Planning • Become a Digital Mentor (volunteer training open) “Come for tech help, stay for a cuppa” “YOUR LOCAL HUB FOR CYBER SAFETY, DISASTER PREPAREDNESS & COMMUNITY CONNECTION” With the cost of living continuing to rise, many retirees and over-50s are looking for practical ways to stretch their budget without compromising dignity, quality, or community connection. In Ormeau, a local food outlet operated by Authentic Church is quietly providing just that. Open during the week, the Authentic Church food outlet offers affordable groceries to local residents, with a growing number of retirees and seniors making it part of their regular routine. The outlet stocks a range of everyday essentials, fresh produce and pantry staples at prices designed to ease household pressure. For many over-50s, particularly those on fixed incomes, even small savings on groceries can make a real difference. Visitors say the food outlet allows them to redirect money toward essentials like utilities, medical costs, or simply enjoying life a little more in retirement. What sets the outlet apart is not just the pricing, but the atmosphere. Visitors are welcomed by a warm smile and friendly staff. There is no pressure, no judgment, and no expectations. People come for groceries and often stay for a chat, making it as much a social connection point as a practical one. Senior Pastor and Community Care Director Melanie Stevenson said the outlet exists to serve the entire community, including retirees who may feel overlooked in today's economy. “We’ve seen many over-50s doing it tough quietly. This is about offering support in a respectful and dignified way. It’s a hand up, not a hand out.” Whether you’re a retiree, live alone, a downsizer, tightening up your budget, or just trying to save a few bucks, everyone is welcome. “ We don’t means test or restrict access to anyone” said Melanie. While the food outlet is run by Authentic Church, it operates as a community service first and foremost. Information about church services is available for those who ask, but there is no obligation or expectation attached to using the outlet. For retirees and over-50s looking for a practical way to reduce grocery costs while staying connected to their local community, the Authentic Church food outlet is proving to be a valuable local resource. You will find us at 127 Lahrs Rd, Ormeau Open Hours: Tues - Fri 9 am - 1:30 am & Sat 8 am - 12:30 pm See advert front cover Local Food Outlet Supporting Over-50s in Ormeau Do something special. Give blood. Call 13 14 95 download the app or donateblood.com.au
7 3 Bulk Billed Eye Tests 3 Most Health Funds Accepted 3 External Prescriptions Welcome *Excludes Maui Jim, Zeal and Oakley Sun RX PARIS MIKI OPTICAL Shop 18, 12 Sir John Overall Drive, Helensvale Plaza Phone 5580 5010 | www.paris-miki.com.au In our fast-paced lives, filled with digital screens and constant visual stimuli, it’s easy to overlook the significance of maintaining good eye health. However, regular checkups with an optometrist are not just a precautionary measure; they are essential for preserving the precious gift of sight and overall well-being. One of the primary reasons to prioritise optometric check-ups is the early detection of potential issues. Many eye conditions, such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, often develop gradually without noticeable symptoms in their early stages. An optometrist can detect these conditions through comprehensive eye exams, allowing for early intervention and effective management. Timely diagnosis can prevent irreversible damage to the eyes and, in some cases, even save one’s vision. Moreover, optometrists are equipped with the expertise to address refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. While it might be tempting to rely on over-the-counter reading glasses or online prescriptions, these solutions may not adequately address the unique visual needs of each individual. Optometrists tailor prescriptions based on a thorough understanding of the patient’s eye health, ensuring optimal vision correction. Regular eye check-ups are particularly crucial for children, as undetected vision problems can hinder their learning and development. Children may not always express vision concerns or even recognise them, making routine optometric visits essential for identifying and addressing potential issues early on. Good vision is integral to a child’s academic success and overall well-being. Paris Miki Optical has been servicing the Helensvale and surrounding community for eyewear needs since 2005. Store Manager Michael has over 32 year’s experience as a qualified Optical technician and has been The importance of regular eye checks working in the area for 25 years. We have an onsite workshop for quicker spectacle making, so you don’t have to be without your own frames for weeks if we are using your own frame for new lenses; repairs can be done onsite and same day service is available on in store stock lenses. Here at Paris Miki, we offer a large range of contact lenses; including multifocal, toric, 1 day, fortnightly to monthly lenses. Michael is able to customise lens shapes for rimless and semi rimless frames to suit customers various needs. We can also create prescription polarised sunglasses for most sunglass frames. Bulk billed eye testing is available with retinal photography. Health fund claiming for most funds can be done on the spot. To make an appointment please call on 5580 5010. $150 OFF COMPLETE PAIR New Year, New Health Coverage! The majority of health fund yearly limits refresh every January 1st. Schedule your eye examination today and upgrade your glasses!
8 GOLD COAST FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY "A person is a person through other persons" Desmond Tutu (Ubuntu philosophy). Connectedness, feeling grounded and proud are some of the comments people make once they embark on the search for family history. Regardless of humble or noble status during a lifetime, in the big picture, when all the pieces of a person’s life come together to make a tree, everyone becomes equally important. To be alive today is because of hardy genetics, mental drive and probably a lot of luck. On one hand death was common with child mortality, birth complications, death from injuries or disease no medical care could manage, plague, war and yet, men, and women after multiple births, lived to 6080+. Not everyone has a trail. It’s disappointing but never dull exploring possibilities. Finding a small fact about an individual who left their mark can feel incredible. “How could we not know this?”, “Why didn’t this information get passed down?” “I wish I’d asked more questions before my parents, grandparents passed away”. These comments are heard so often in family history conversations. Some information is easy to find while some takes searching multiple platforms. For example, following the line of a relative which may circle back to give valuable information about the focus person. For help with producing your family tree, you may like to join the Gold Coast Family History Society. For a modest yearly fee, you will have access to a comprehensive library, many worldwide subscription websites, and fellow researchers prepared to help you get started or break down any brick walls you may encounter. For further information visit http://www.goldcoastfhs.org.au or attend our rooms at the Bicentennial Building, 833 Nerang-Southport Road, Nerang. OPEN DAY The Gold Coast Family History Society is holding an OPEN DAY on Sat 7 March 10am – 2pm. Members will be on hand to guide people around our rooms and answer questions. Check out our worldwide resources provided for members. INTRODUCTION TO FAMILY HISTORY On Friday 20 March at 9 am we will be holding our Introduction to Family History class in Room 3, Bicentennial Building, 833 Nerang-Southport Road, Nerang. This session is free for members and $10 for non-members. Places will be strictly limited, please phone Pam on 0447 715 593 or email: goldcoastfamilyhistorysociety@gmail.com Subscription Traps and Your Wallet In today’s digital economy, subscription services are everywhere — from meal kits and fitness apps to streaming platforms and wellness programs. While these models promise convenience and value, they also bring a hidden risk: subscription traps. These occur when consumers are easily signed up to a recurring payment plan but face opaque or onerous processes to cancel, often resulting in unwelcome charges that can add up quickly. Subscription traps typically exploit psychological design features or “dark patterns” in online interfaces, such as buried terms and conditions, pre-ticked opt-in boxes, or multi-step cancellation processes that discourage users from opting out. These tactics not only frustrate consumers but also undermine trust in digital markets — particularly when people unwittingly transition from a free trial to a paid plan without clear warning. Recognising the growing harm, the Australian Government has made tackling subscription traps a priority. In late 2025 and into early 2026, it announced major consumer protection reforms aimed squarely at unfair trading practices like subscription traps and hidden fees. Central to this effort is a new ban on unfair trading practices under the Australian Consumer Law, developed in consultation with states and territories. These reforms will require businesses to disclose key subscription terms upfront, notify customers before free trials roll over into paid plans, and ensure that cancelling a subscription is at least as easy as signing up. The changes build on existing consumer law provisions against misleading and deceptive conduct, but go further by targeting the design and structure of the subscription process itself. Regulators such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) will have expanded powers to enforce these laws, including seeking penalties and compliance programs from companies that fail to treat consumers fairly. Recent legal action by the ACCC against major meal kit providers, including HelloFresh and Youfoodz, highlights why these reforms are needed. The watchdog alleges that tens of thousands of customers were charged despite cancelling subscriptions before the first scheduled delivery — evidence of how confusing practices can trap consumers into ongoing charges. For consumers navigating this landscape, vigilance is key. Australians should read the fine print before signing up, set calendar reminders for trial end dates, regularly audit bank and card statements for recurring charges, and use service-management tools where available. If difficulty cancelling arises, consumers can contact the ACCC or state consumer protection agencies for help. Ultimately, subscription services can offer real benefits — but only when they operate transparently and fairly. The government’s reforms reflect a necessary step toward restoring consumer control in an increasingly subscriptionled economy.
9 Homeworld Helensvale 5502 7227 Runaway Bay Mall 0491 923 693 Tweed Mall 0414 570 839 Logan Hyperdome 0438 997 250 Also Browns Plains - Macgregor - Noosa *Conditions apply. See in-store for details or visit www.bedsrus.com.au
10 Summer can be a wonderful time for enjoying the outdoors and connecting with family, but for older Australians, extreme heat brings real risks. In older adults, not only are they more vulnerable to heat stress, but it can happen much more quickly and be much more serious than in healthy, younger adults. At Home Care Assistance Australia, we see the impact of hot weather on our clients every year. That’s why it’s so important to recognise the warning signs, understand the risk factors, and know how to respond quickly. Recognising the Signs of Heat Stress Knowing the early signs of heat stress can prevent a dangerous situation from becoming an emergency. Be alert to any of the following symptoms: • Lethargy or unusual tiredness • Dizziness or fainting • Muscle cramps • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea • Rapid heart rate • Dark or decreased urine output • Confusion, disorientation or sudden mood changes • Headaches or blurred vision • Excessive thirst If your loved one begins to show these signs (especially in hot or humid weather) it’s essential to act immediately. Heat stress can escalate quickly. Don’t wait for multiple symptoms to appear – early intervention saves lives. How to Prevent Heat Stress The best way to avoid heat-related illness is through prevention. Here are some practical ways to stay safe during the warmer months: • Stay hydrated: Encourage regular small sips of water throughout the day—even before thirst is felt • Avoid the midday heat: Plan outings, appointments, shopping or exercise early in the morning or after sunset • Keep homes cool: Use fans, air conditioning, or visit cool public places like shopping centres or libraries. Often in a heatwave places like libraries will have extended opening hours for people who do not have cooling in their homes, or consider visiting a friend who does have cooling at home. • Wear lightweight, breathable clothing: Choose cotton or linen and opt for light colours • Use cooling aids: Cool cloths, mist sprays, or even a foot soak can help lower body temperature • Monitor medications: Some increase sensitivity to heat—check with your GP or pharmacist • Check in regularly: If your loved one lives alone, call or visit daily during heatwaves When Extra Support Can Help If you’re concerned that your loved one is at risk of heat stress whether due to health conditions, memory issues, or living alone, it might be time to consider in-home support. At Home Care Assistance Australia, our team can help by: • Monitoring hydration and food intake • Managing medications • Creating cool, safe home environments • Providing companionship and regular wellness checks • Supporting with transport, shopping, and personal care during hot days This kind of daily support makes a real difference in preventing emergencies and maintaining wellbeing through the summer months. Heat stress is serious, but preventable. With the right knowledge, a few practical changes, and support when needed, older Australians can stay safe and enjoy summer with confidence. Support at home from a specialist provider, such as Home Care Assistance, can bring enormous benefits and comfort to your quality of life while living independently at home. Home Care Assistance offers viable solutions for supporting independent living. For more information see our advert page 11 > Signs of Heat Stress in the Elderly FREE, FIXED NO OBLIGATION QUOTES FREE, FIXED NO OBLIGATION QUOTES Need it done? Jim’s the one! 131 546 INSURANCE COVER Satisfaction Guaranteed! P Lawn Mowing P Gutter Cleaning P Rubbish Removal P General Maintenance P Irrigation Installation P New Lawn Laying P Yard Clean Ups P Tree Removal P Weed Control P Fertilizing P Pruning
11 www.homecareassistancegoldcoast.com.au LOCAL HOME CARE PROVIDER Getting Started? 07 5528 1643 Dedicated to Ageing Well 30309/9 Lawson Street, Southport 4215 | (07) 5528 1643 www.homecareassistancegoldcoast.com.au u 24/7 Live-In and Hourly Care from Coolangatta to Logan, The Scenic Rim, Redlands and parts of Ipswich u Consistency of care with carefully matched Carers u Cognitive TherapeuticsTM to boost brain health u Zero exit fees, zero start up fees - so more care hours for you • Social Support and Companionship Support/transport to go appointments, shopping and social functions. • Meal Preparation Nutrition, cooking and hydration needs. • Personal Assistance Grooming, bathing, dressing, continence and mobility • Respite Care Assisting family members to take a well-deserved break. • Light Domestic Support • Medication Prompting Ensuring the right medication is taken at the right time. • Laundry Washing, drying, ironing and organising. • Lawn Mowing • Nursing, Allied Health and Therapy Services eg: speech therapy, podiatry, occupational or physiotherapy services and other clinical services such as hearing and vision services. • Mobility and dexterity, providing walking frames, bed rails, pressure-relieving mattresses, etc. What services can you access under home care packages? To get approved for services you need to register with the Government’s My Aged Care. Phone us on 07 5528 1643 after getting approved for your Home Care Package. With the introduction of the new ‘Support at Home’ Program, we’re here to help you understand what to expect. If you need any information or have questions about the process, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Speak to our Care Partners to schedule your free consultation today! 07 5528 1643 We Do Home Care Differently Government Approved Provider We provide high level professional care, in the comfort of your own home. Our dedicated team of skilled healthcare professionals are able to support and assist you in keeping your dignity and comfort as you age well. We offer 24/7 personalised on-call support and care from our trained carers and nurses. Local Approved Government Homecare Package Provider
12 0417 294 778 A Touch of Grass Garden Care GARDEN CLEANUPS / REJUVENATION & MAKEOVERS A SPECIALTY We offer an experienced, professional and reliable service Call Jeremy on ... Est. Gold Coast since 2001 Let us create your new and rejuvenated garden where you can sit back, relax and enjoy your tranquil surroundings ... Specialising Garden Makeovers & Rejuvenation * Garden Care * Plant Selection * Soft Landscaping There’s a long held view by many gardeners that iconic Kangaroo Paws can’t be grown successfully away from their natural distribution range in South West Western Australia. Plant selection and breeding programmes have developed cultivated forms of Anigozanthis species over the past four decades resulting in excellent plants for the home garden and landscapes. In the wild there are 12 species ranging from the 30cm brilliant red and green flowering Anigozanthosmanglesii to the bright yellow A. flavidus which grows around a metre tall. Cultivars bred from the species flavidus seem to be the hardiest through our summer wet spells. The range of cultivars and hybrids stretches into many dozens, all with enhanced disease resistance overcoming the problems associated with Ink Spot fungus. It was this ugly black spotting disease which previously precluded their success in the humid climate of the Eastern States. Care and good site selection still remain important. It is essential to plant into free draining soil, using only slow release native fertilisers low in phosphorus. Watering techniques remain critical, sub surface water deep into the root zone is preferred, avoiding showering the foliage or wetting the crown. Kangaroo Paws can provide an understorey infill complementing our regional trees, shrubs and ground covers, and are a fabulous accent when planted individually. They also make spectacular long flowering and colourful bedding displays. Planted near other bird attracting plants like Grevilleas and Bottlebrush, the nectar filled tubular flowers of Kangaroo Paw encourage smaller nectar feeding Honeyeaters and Spinebills. Don’t be surprised to find the odd long flowering stem which stretches well above the strappy foliage bent over, or broken by the weight of delighted birds! Regular dead heading (the removal of spent flowers) will induce new flowers stems, or alternatively pick flowering stems as cut flowers. Although not a native of South East Queensland, Kangaroo Paws contribute to a unique Australian identity in our gardens. Melded with colourful local ground covers like Scaevolaalbida or aemula, Purple Fanflower, Chrysocephelumapiculatum Yellow Buttons, Xerochrysum cultivars Paper Daisies or any of the low Hibbertia species they make a great show. Trim Kangaroo Paw foliage as low as possible after the peak flowering period, or when the flowers fade and they’ll quickly recover with new bright green healthy stems and repeat flowers. Select the taller growing perennial hybrids and cultivar Kangaroo paws, regularly trim off old flowers and lightly prune associated ground covers and the reward will be almost year round colour and bird life. The smaller varieties tend to have shorter lives but provide amazing short term colour, and are great in pots! Flowering Kangaroo Paws can be seen at the Botanic Gardens in season. Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens, Rosser Park, 232 Ashmore Rd, Benowa Gardening by Kate Heffernan Honorary Life Member Friends of GCRBG, Botanic Garden Consultant
13 Which denture is the right choice for me? A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. There are two types of dentures are available, complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Complete Dentures Complete dentures can be either "conventional" or "immediate." Made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has begun to heal, a conventional denture is ready for placement in the mouth about eight to 12 weeks after the teeth have been removed. Unlike conventional dentures, immediate dentures are made in advance and can be positioned as soon as the teeth are removed. As a result, the wearer does not have to be without teeth during the healing period. However, bones and gums shrink over time, especially during the healing period following tooth removal. Therefore a disadvantage of immediate dentures compared with conventional dentures is that they require more adjustments to fit properly during the healing process and generally should only be considered a temporary solution until conventional dentures can be made. Partial Dentures A removable partial denture or bridge usually consists of replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-colored plastic base, which is sometimes connected by metal framework that holds the denture in place in the mouth. Partial dentures are used when one or more natural teeth remain in the upper or lower jaw. A fixed bridge replaces one or more teeth by placing crowns on the teeth on either side of the space and attaching artificial teeth to them. This "bridge" is then cemented into place. Not only does a partial denture fill in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from changing position. A precision partial denture is removable and has internal attachments rather than clasps that attach to the adjacent crowns. This is a more natural-looking appliance. Are There Alternatives to Dentures? Yes, dental implants can be used to support cemented bridges, eliminating the need for a denture. The cost is usually greater, but the implants and bridges more closely resemble the feel of real teeth. Dental implants are becoming the alternative to dentures but not everyone is a candidate for implants. Consult your dentist for advice. For more information on dentures please contact us. Shop 40/1 Mudgeeraba Rd, Worongary Town Centre 5/26-28 Commerce Drive, Robina • Implant Dentures • Health Funds & Veterans Affairs • Precision Dentures • Mouthguards/Splints • Same Day Repairs & Relines NEED NEW DENTURES? CALL SOMEONE WHO CARES! Custom made aesthetically designed natural looking dentures that you can wear with a confident smile. DENTURES DIRECT TO PUBLIC Registered with the Dental Board of Australia & Australian Dental Prosthetist Assoc. Ltd TWO LOCATIONS Worongary & Robina
14 We have 2 x $50 Gift Cards to give away! Simply complete the CROSSWORD and/or the SUDOKU puzzle and post to GC OVER 50s CROSSWORD COMPETITION and/or GC OVER 50s SUDOKU COMPETITION PO Box 3302, Burleigh Town City Q. 4220 Write your name and address on the back of an envelope. First correct crossword and first correct sudoku entry drawn will win. Entries close 28.02.2026 Winner notified by post. Win a $50 GIFT Card Just Joking CROSSWORD 129 by Mona Elliott ACROSS 1. REMEMBER 7. BIND 8. BORDER 9. REVERED 10. DINS 11. INVERSE 14. A SOFT WOOL 18. HABIT 19. ANCIENT 21. HARMONY 22. SEEMED 23. STRETCH DOWN 1. SENTIMENTAL 2. A MONTH 3. COMPANIONLESS 4. OVER SUPPLY 5. EXIT 2 3 4 9 11 12 13 15 16 20 21 23 1 8 10 14 22 5 6 7 17 18 19 6. TESTIFY 12. DEBAR 13. INSPECTED 15. SUDDEN 16. MALLET 17. HELP 20. DIVERSIFY Answer next month SU DO KU Instructions: The numbers 1 to 9 must appear in each row, column and 3 x 3 box. Numbers can not be duplicated. No. 129 4 9 7 4 1 3 3 6 5 2 9 8 6 7 1 9 5 4 2 1 8 6 Answer next month 10 reasons why English is weird 1. The bandage was wound around the wound. 2. The farm was used to produce produce. 3. The dump was so full that it had to refuse more refuse. 4, We must polish the Polish furniture. 5. He could lead if he would get the lead out. 6. The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert. 7. Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present. 8. A bass was painted on the head of the bass drum. 9. When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes. 10. I did not object to the object. An elderly couple, Margaret and Bert, moved to Tamworth. Bert always wanted a pair of authentic cowboy boots, so, seeing some on sale, he bought them and wore them home. Walking proudly, he sauntered into the kitchen and said to his wife, “Notice anything different about me?” Margaret looked him over, “Nope.” Frustrated, Bert stormed off into the bathroom, undressed and walked back into the kitchen clad only in his birthday suit except for the boots. Again he asked Margaret, a little louder this time, “Notice anything different NOW?” Margaret looked up and said in her best deadpan, “Bert, what’s different? It’s hanging down today, it was hanging down yesterday, it’ll be hanging down tomorrow.” Furious, Bert yelled, “AND DO YOU KNOW WHY IT’S HANGING DOWN, MARGARET?” “Nope, Not a clue”, she replied. ‘IT’S HANGING DOWN, BECAUSE IT’S LOOKING AT MY NEW BOOTS!!!’ Without missing a beat Margaret replied, “Shoulda bought a hat, Bert... shoulda bought a hat...”
15 HEALTHY EATING MADE EASY Call now 1300 112 112 www.gourmetmeals.com.au HOME DELIVERY OF READY MADE MEALS New Customers use the code word INTRO and receive a FREE MEAL Minimum order applies, one per customer l3 Gluten Free l3 Wholesome and nutritious l3 Convenient ready-made frozen meals l3 Australian owned and operated l3 Tastes like home cooking l3 Home delivered or available in stores Minimum order $49.00 (excl delivery of $7.50) Full range of meals available at Booval Newsagency, 38 South Station Road, Booval Advertorial Meals snap frozen to retain all freshness, nutrients and flavours WHEN compared with their fresh alternatives, frozen meals are still wrongly misconceived to be the unhealthier option, says Gourmet Meals owner Daniel Wuthrich. “However, research continuously suggests that it’s quite the opposite,” he said. “A common misconception is that frozen foods lack the same levels of nutrition, but in actual fact, frozen meals can retain even more nutrients than fresh food.” Mr Wuthrich said that with every day that fruit and vegetables sat at the shops or in a fridge, more and more nutrients were lost, while freezing those foods kept their valuable vitamins and nutrients intact. “If you’re after a calorie-controlled diet that’s not only convenient but also maintains its nutritional integrity, why not try some of our frozen ready-made meals?” he said. “Gourmet Meals provides a wide range of healthy and portion-controlled meals that are high in fibre and protein, and reduced in salt and fat. “Our meals are snap frozen in order to retain all their freshness, nutrients and flavours. “They go straight from the pot to the blast freezer in order to stay fresh without the need for any added preservatives, flavours or colours.” Mr Wuthrich said all Gourmet Meals were free from gluten and additives, and the act of freezing simply left the goodness intact ready for people to take advantage of once they were heated up to eat.“ Gourmet Meals has a varied menu filled with great tasting meals that are just like home cooking and remind you of the delicious meals mum used to cook when you were growing up,” he said. “Some of our all-time favourites are cottage pie, curry prawns and honey soy chicken as well as all our roasts and casseroles, not to forget our yummy soups and scrumptious desserts. “Ordering ready-made frozen meals is extremely convenient for busy parents and time-poor professionals; they also minimise food wastage, which is not only good for the hip pocket, but also reduces the environmental footprint. “It gives the possibility of having a varied menu throughout the week, every day something different. “Check out our menu today to discover our wide range of healthy meals that can be delivered straight to your door at a competitive price.” Ordering ready-made frozen meals is extremely convenient for busy parents and time-poor professionals; they also minimise food wastage, which is not only good for the hip pocket, but also reduces the environmental footprint. – Owner Daniel Wuthrich Full range of meals available at 46/215 Brisbane Rd, Biggera Waters | Mon-Fri 9am to 4pm. Contact our office for minimum order requirements 4 Large Gluten Free Variety 4 Convenient ready-made frozen meals 4 Tastes like home cooking New Customers use the code word INTRO and receive a FREE MEAL Minimum order applies, one per customer 4 4 4 Affordable Gourmet: Eating Well Without Blowing the Budget The rising cost of living is being felt in households right across Australia. Grocery bills are climbing, fuel prices fluctuate, and everyday essentials seem to cost more each time we shop. For many people, food is one of the first areas where spending needs to be tightened — but that can feel daunting when good nutrition, enjoyment, and convenience still matter. The good news is that saving money doesn’t have to mean settling for bland meals or sacrificing quality. With a little planning and the right choices, it’s possible to eat well, stay on budget, and even simplify daily life. One increasingly popular solution is professionally prepared snapfrozen meals. At Gourmet Meals, we see firsthand how thoughtfully prepared frozen meals can support Australians who want reliable, affordable food that still feels like a proper home-style meal. Our range is designed to deliver balance, flavour, and comfort, while helping households take control of their food spending and reduce waste. Snap-frozen meals offer a practical middle ground. Because each meal has a fixed price and a controlled portion, you know exactly what you’re spending. There are no surprise add-ons at the checkout, no unused vegetables wilting in the fridge, and no forgotten leftovers heading for the bin. Every meal you buy is a meal you’ll actually eat. Gourmet Meals are snap frozen to lock in flavour and nutrients, then stored until you’re ready to enjoy them. There’s no rush to use them before they expire, and no pressure to cook when you’re tired or short on time. Meals are ready when you need them — whether that’s every night or just on busy days. For many people, fewer trips to the supermarket are another welcome benefit. Less time navigating crowded aisles and more time doing the things you actually enjoy can make a noticeable difference to daily life. Beyond cost and convenience, nutrition remains a priority. Professionally prepared snap-frozen meals are created with balance in mind, offering sensible portions and familiar flavours without excess. In challenging economic times, small changes can have a big impact. Choosing snap-frozen meals is not about giving something up — it’s about gaining confidence, structure, and simplicity in the way you eat. Affordable gourmet dining doesn’t have to be an occasional treat. With the right approach, it can be part of everyday life: satisfying, dependable, and kind to both your budget and your time. Eating well should feel comforting, not complicated — and that’s a goal worth investing in. Special Easter Offer: From 19 February 2026, enjoy a FREE meal with every $85 spent on Gourmet Meals. Terms and conditions apply. For more information, please contact our office — our friendly team will be happy to assist. Congrats December Winners! Congratulations to our winners! We receive hundreds of entries for our competitions each month so keep on entering, you might be the next lucky winner! $50 GIFT CARD SUDOKU: E. McClue, Ashmore CROSSWORD: S. Hill, Robina CRYPTIC: P. Harding, Tugun MY HUSBAND’S WIFE BOOK COMP A. Jackson, Bilinga | V. Andrews, Burleigh D. Mumberson, Coombabah L. Stratford, Nerang P Martin, Biggera Waters MOTOWN @ THE STAR CASINO H. Grimley, Broadbeach M. Smith, Surfers Paradise HELICONIA SPECIALIST 2 MARKET STREET, CARRARA Ph: 0415 323 815 DELIVERY AVAILABLE | OPEN 7 DAYS SCREENING HELICONIAS HUGE VARIETY OF TROPICAL GARDEN PLANTS INC. PALMS, GINGERS, CORDYLINES & COSTUS One of our most popular plants - Heliconias. This is a great example of how well they work as a screener. If you’re trying to hide your fence or the neighbours these will do the job. Choose from: Kawauchi, Rauliniana, Black Cherry, Jacquinii or Hot Rio Nites. plus many other plants to choose from.
16 Answer to Crossword No. 128 from last issue Answer to Cryptic Xword No. 128 from last issue Answer to Sudoku No. 128 from last issue TO ENTER SEND YOUR COMPLETED CRYPTIC CROSSWORD TO: “Over 50s Cryptic Crossword Competition” PO Box 3302, Burleigh Town City Q. 4220 Write your name and address on the back of an envelope. First correct entry drawn will win. Entries close 28.02.2026 Winner notified by post. Win a $50 GIFT Card Just Joking CRYPTIC 129 Answer next issue 1 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 26 27 2 3 4 5 6 7 25 ACROSS 4. Current copper sexy but showed correctness. (8) 8. Ships used for a short cut. (8) 9. Angling to throw around the worker. (8) 10. Carve words on new rice bins. (8) 11. Tail on an itinerant citizen. (8) 12. Song found in bar I attend. (4) 14. Hit up friends. (4) 15. Medical care of distressed ten matter. (9) 16. Drop one to say hello or drop one in to fish. (4) 18. Pass strange snakes. (4) 21. Rummage a couple of beds to find fruit. (8) 24. Speaks about strange love of sausages. (8) 25. The hat contained the alternative to a wide view. (8) 26. Awful evil rant caused a break. (8) 27. Not so genuine as sellers questionable.(4,4) DOWN 1. Seeing less impressive performance.(7) 2. Guess cups elate playing. (9) 3. Be humble at home to start. (5) 4. Agree although forwarded. (6) 5. A hundred rushed to be humbled. (9) 6. Fraction to air exchange. (5) 7. Able to say goodbye with a song. (7) 13. Put holes in rope after tangle. (9) 14. Keep watch but somehow lay at rest. (4,5) 17. Set up a position at home. (2,5) 19. Exercise around the unfit Asian on the baby’s blanket. (4,3) 20. Attack while under canvas. (6) 22. Superstars took their wedding vows in front of many from the South. (5) 23. Stage show with her capturing appeal. (5) 6 5 7 2 8 9 4 3 1 1 9 8 3 4 5 7 2 6 2 3 4 7 1 6 8 9 5 3 1 9 8 6 4 5 7 2 4 6 5 9 7 2 3 1 8 7 8 2 1 5 3 9 6 4 9 4 3 6 2 8 1 5 7 5 7 6 4 3 1 2 8 9 8 2 1 5 9 7 6 4 3 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 11 12 13 15 16 17 18 20 21 23 1 8 10 14 19 22 24 25 C O N C U R C I F U H A B N O R M A L S T R A I N M P E C S K E E P S A K E MORTAL E S C M E E V I L S E L E A N S S T E E D E G H O O P R N I I A L A I R D S S A T U R A T E V L U A P A B I D E S R E T R E A T S A S E E N E N L I S T 1 8 11 13 17 21 26 9 10 12 14 15 16 18 19 20 23 22 24 25 27 28 2 3 4 5 6 7 H E A T B A G C H A M B E R O C U A A T R E T R E A S U R E R T R I A L D T H M P E D A O R Y X D E T A I N M E N T G L B N L D E S T E P O U T S T A M P E D N T N E W R E S T L E A C C U S E D A L A D E T E S I L V E R S I D E L I M P H E N T I M C R I M A G E E X C L U S I V E N V C R T M D S G H E R K I N S A U C E R S So one day, Grandma sent her grandson Little Johnny down to the waterhole to get some water for cooking dinner. As he was dipping the bucket in, he saw two big eyes looking back at him. He dropped the bucket and hightailed it for Grandma’s kitchen. “Well now, where’s my bucket and where’s my water?” Grandma asked him. “I can’t get any water from that water hole, Grandma” exclaimed Johnny. “There’s a BIG ol’ alligator down there!” “Now don’t you mind that ol’ alligator, Johnny. He’s been there for a few years now, and he’s never hurt no one. Why, he’s probably as scared of you as you are of him!” “Well, Grandma,” replied Johnny, “if he’s as scared of me as I am of him, then that water ain’t fit to drink!”
17 When life gets busy, it’s easy to let important health checks slip down the todo list. Between work, family, and everyday demands, that simple reminder to book a breast screen can often fall by the wayside. But here’s a friendly nudge — don’t wait. This small act of self-care could make a big difference. Peace of mind For most women, breast screening brings reassurance and peace of mind with most breast screens delivering a normal result with no breast cancer found. Many women say that receiving a clear result allows them to get on with life, free from that nagging feeling in the back of their minds. Early detection means more options The goal of breast screening is to find cancers when they’re very small — often too small to be seen or felt. When breast cancer is found early, it’s usually easier to treat and there are often more treatment options available. Early detection not only saves lives but can also lead to a better quality of life after diagnosis. Saving lives, one screen at a time Since the introduction of the BreastScreen Australia program, deaths from breast cancer have reduced significantly. There are different benefits and risks of breast screening depending on your age, risk factors, and other considerations. Regular screening mammograms are recommended every two years for most women aged 50 to 74 as the effectiveness of breast screening is strongest for this group. Free breast screens are available at BreastScreen Queensland services for eligible people aged 40 and over who haven’t noticed any breast changes. If you’re a woman aged 40 to 49 or 75 and over, with no family history or previous diagnosis of breast cancer, speak with your doctor to help decide if breast screening is right for you. Support is available The BreastScreen Queensland team are here to support you every step of the way. Videos and facts sheets in various languages can be found online to help you prepare for your visit, including information for individuals with disability and those who use a wheelchair or mobility aid. Interpreters and small group bookings can be arranged. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients visiting BreastScreen Queensland Gold Coast services, a Sistas Shawl (which can be worn or held during the screen) is offered alongside culturally supportive information. Convenient, quick and free Appointments are simple to book and available at convenient locations across Queensland. Permanent clinics are at Burleigh Waters, Helensvale, Robina and Southport. A mobile clinic visits other areas through the year including Nerang (February) and Elanora (March to April). Early morning and Saturday clinics are offered to help fit around your schedule. Book by phoning 13 20 50 or online at breastscreen.qld.gov.au Because peace of mind, early detection and better outcomes are all reasons to make booking a breast screen a priority. Regular screening could save your life
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