Solutions for Mobility and Daily Living Delivery & Home Visits Available Shop 4 / 41 Ferry Rd Southport Phone 5661 4432 www.adaptiveequipment.com.au Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm An Independent, Gold Coast family owned business ASPIRE AIR LIFT CHAIR ASPIRE RAPHAEL QUATTRO LIFT RECLINE CHAIR ASPIRE MONET DUAL ACTION LIFT RECLINE CHAIR ASPIRE REMBRANDT QUATTRO LIFT RECLINE CHAIR WINDSOR 4 MOTOR LIFT AND RECLINE CHAIR Scooters Lift/Recline Chairs Power Chairs Bedroom Aids Walkers Bathroom Aids Wheelchairs Bariatric Est. 1989 | P: (07) 5527 0314 | M: 0411 134 507 info@localnewsletters.com | www.localnewsletters.com February 2024 - No. 105 Gold Coast FREE! WIN! GIFT CARDS, Book Giveaway! Search on for outstanding Gold Coasters who go above and beyond The search is on for the outstanding Gold Coast residents who are changing lives and our community for the better. The annual Gold Coast Australian of the Year Awards recognise residents who are champions who make the city great, are positive ambassadors for the region, and provide an outstanding contribution to the Gold Coast. Nominations are now open. “There are so many Gold Coasters who work tirelessly and give their own time to help improve our community,” Mayor Tom Tate said. “The Gold Coast Australian of the Year Awards is the time to recognise those people who are outstanding in their field and are role models for all of us.” There are four categories including: • Gold Coast Australian of the Year • Gold Coast Senior Australian of the Year • Gold Coast Young Australian of the Year • Gold Coast Local Hero “Since Christmas Gold Coasters have been going above and beyond to help with the storm response and recovery effort – show them your appreciation by nominating someone who helped your neighbourhood for the Gold Coast Local Hero Award.” continued page 3 >
2 1 / 1 BELL PLACE MUDGEERABA Ph: 5525 2588 Clinic Open Monday to Friday Open until late Walk ins available! BOOK ONLINE: www.healthhubdoctor.com Services Available: Skin Checks Cosmetic Injections (Anti-Wrinkle Injections) Chronic Disease Management Women’s, Men’s and Kids Health Childhood Vaccinations Sleep Apnoea Clinic Osteo Clinic Acupuncture Iron infusions Mental Health Diabetes Clinic MIXED BILLING CLINIC Bulk Billing Available For Patients Under 15, Pension Card And Concession Card Holders. 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 AACTA Festival 2024 A Cinematic Extravaganza on the Gold Coast The Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA) is set to illuminate the Gold Coast with the inaugural AACTA Festival from February 8-11, 2024. Offering over 70 diverse events encompassing film, television, music, gaming, pop culture, and family activities, this four-day celebration promises an immersive experience for all. AACTA CEO Damian Trewhella expressed excitement, emphasizing the festival’s inclusivity, covering film, television, music, gaming, art, and pop culture. Foxtel Group’s Amanda Laing highlighted the festival’s role in showcasing Australian storytelling, while Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate recognized the city’s prominence in the screen sector. Screen Queensland CEO Jacqui Feeney welcomed the festival to the prolific Gold Coast, a hub for production and screen talent. With a call to plan a visit, pack popcorn, and enjoy the show, the AACTA Festival promises an unforgettable celebration of Australia’s screen sector on the picturesque Gold Coast. For ticket information, visit aactafestival.com. Hosted at the Home of the Arts (HOTA), the festival caters to industry professionals, film enthusiasts, families, and aspiring creatives. Free-to-attend events include panels, meet-and-greets, screenings, and activities, providing an opportunity to delve behind the scenes, discover industry trends, meet stars, network with practitioners, and explore the world of Australian film, TV, gaming, and music. The AACTA Industry Awards Ceremony on February 8 marks the festival’s beginning, followed by a day of industry events and discussions. The AACTA Awards Ceremony on February 10 features a star-studded red carpet, culminating on February 11 with screenings, live music, kids’ events, acting workshops, meet-andgreets, and the Screen Careers Expo. Cinematic highlights include a behind-the-scenes look at The Matrix, an animation deconstruction of Spider-Man: Across the SpiderVerse, a Mad Max: Fury Road stunt work showcase, and a preview of the BINGE Original series High Country starring Leah Purcell. Exclusive insights from Michael Gracey and producer Paul Currie on their upcoming film Better Man, featuring Robbie Williams, add to the festival’s allure. Literary enthusiasts will appreciate the presence of Queensland’s top writers, including Trent Dalton and Holly Ringland, along with panel discussions featuring renowned directors Danny and Michael Philippou, Warwick Thornton, and creators of The Newsreader. For families, a Play School LIVE event, kids’ acting workshops, face painting, live music, and a special appearance by Bluey promise entertainment. The AACTA Screen Careers Expo on Sunday provides invaluable insights for those aspiring to enter the industry.
3 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 13 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 carer 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 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 on School Holidays) SCHOOL BUS DRIVER & CARER POSITIONS To apply contact us at Metro Coach Pty Ltd Email: admin@metrocoach.com.au Phone: 07 5528 9166 SOUTHPORT, COOMERA, MUDGEERABA AND SURROUNDING AREAS A selection panel reviews all nominations and then chooses a winner. Last year’s awards were so successful that three of the four category winners took out the Queensland awards and are finalists in the 2024 national Australian of the Year Awards being announced by the Prime Minister in Canberra on Thursday 25 January 2024. Those winners are: • Gold Coast and Queensland Australian of the Year Men of Business founder Marco Renai • Gold Coast and Queensland Senior Australian of the Year Havafeed Relief founders Reverend Robyn Burch and Reverend Dr Lindsay Burch • Gold Coast and Queensland Young Australian of the Year Olympic swimmer Emma McKeon Nominations for the Gold Coast Awards close on Sunday, 24 March 2024. The Gold Coast Australian of the Year Awards are proudly supported by Listnr and the Gold Coast Bulletin. For more information and to nominate visit cityofgoldcoast.com.au/gcawards continued from cover
4 Why is this study being conducted? Gout is caused by a high level of uric acid in the blood, which builds up over time. Uric acid is produced when the body digests foods that contain a high level of a chemical called purine; purines can be found in certain types of meat, seafood, and alcohol. Normally, this uric acid is then passed through the urine. However, in people with gout, uric acid is not eliminated correctly and builds up in joints, causing very small crystals of uric acid to form; these are called urate crystals. When urate crystals dissolve, this can trigger a painful gout flare-up. Many of the current approved treatments for gout are called urate-lowering therapies (ULTs). These are designed to lower the uric acid levels in blood. However, due to how these treatments work in the body, they can disturb the urate crystals in joints, leading to a gout flare-up. Who is eligible to participate in this study? You may be able to take part in the Gout Clinical Trial if you: • Are aged between 18 and 85 years • Have high uric acid levels in blood • Have gout or a history of gout Additional eligibility criteria may apply and will be discussed directly with the Clinical Trial Coordinator. What happens during the study? The study will last up to 14 months. During the study, you will be required to: • Attend regular up to 17 study centre visits for health checks • Take your assigned study drug daily and receive additional medications to prevent gout flare-ups • Fill out an electronic diary each day to record any gout flareups Participation in this study is completely voluntary, and participants can decide to withdraw at any time. Eligible participants will be reimbursed for travel, parking, meals and other expenses associated with each study visit. Register for this clinical trial https://redcap.link/gout For further information please contact Taryn Houghton, Clinical Trial Coordinator on 0479178535 or email: clinicaltrialunit@griffith.edu.au. Ethics approval number for the Gout Clinical Trial: Bellberry Limited 2022-10-1070-AC, GU HREC 2023/353 Volunteers Needed for Gout Clinical Trial
5
6 7 YEAR WARRANTY Save money, time & hassle with our simple tile injection method Ripping up and re-laying tiles is messy, invasive & expensive Ready to walk on in 3-4 hours DO YOU HAVE LOOSE, TENTED OR CRACKED TILES? We Can Fix That! CALL US FOR MORE INFO & A FREE QUOTE 0407 898 795 It’s a happy new year for older Australians who want to work and not lose their pension. Here’s why. National Seniors Australia has been a long-time champion for reforms to allow pensioners to earn more income without losing their payment. That’s why this new year we’re celebrating the fact that new working pensioners are up to $2,000 better off because of National Seniors’ efforts to reform pension working rules. of the $300 fortnightly Work Bonus accrued in a Work Bonus income bank. The $4,000 is a one off addition to the Work Bonus for new pensioners and is on top of the $7,800 you can earn without impacting your pension. The additional $4,000 is applied at the start of the year to the Work Bonus income bank of new pensioners. Disappointedly, if you already received the $4,000 Work Bonus in 2023 you will not receive this again up front. However, your Work Bonus can accrue to a maximum of $11,800 because it carries forward over years. It does mean that those becoming eligible for the pension can work a little bit more without losing their pension but those with ongoing work will not unless they have periods out of the workforce and accrue beyond the old $7,800 limit. The decision to make the temporary increase in the Work Bonus permanent from 1 January 2024 means a new pensioner can earn $453 per fortnight (on average) in the first year of receiving their pension and not affect their pension. That might mean you can work an extra shift. It’s important to also note that the Work Bonus operates in addition to the pension income free area, which is currently $204 a fortnight for single pensioners and $360 a fortnight for couples combined. If you don’t have any investment income or savings, this would mean a new pensioner could earn even more each fortnight without losing your pension (all told, up to a total of $657 per fortnight for a single pensioner). For more information about the Work Bonus, Services Australia can be contacted by visiting a Centrelink office in person, by phoning 13 23 00 or at Services Australia. Work Bonus win means more income! On 1 January, all new pensioners will have $4,000 added to their Work Bonus balance. It’s a victory for older Australians and for National Seniors in our ongoing campaign to remove barriers to Australians who want to work in later life. How the new system operates is complicated, but the good news is you do not need to apply separately for any part of the Work Bonus. As with other Age Pension obligations, you just need to declare your income. How it works Here are some examples of the application of the Work Bonus. Under existing rules, the first $300 of fortnightly income from work is not counted under the pension income test, with any unused part source: nationalseniors.com.au
7 Client Intake Department Booking Department Scheduling Department Transcord Driver Helpful information to guide you through the process Transcord provides a service that allows people to live a more independent life, particularly those who find it unsafe to drive due to health conditions or are experiencing social isolation. Once you have made the decision to register with Transcord, we will create the easy steps to follow: A Day In The Life Of Transcord Community Transport... CLIENT INTAKE DEPARTMENT CLIENTS UNDER 65 Eligibility People over the age of 18 years experiencing long or short term health issues making it unsafe to drive or recovering from surgery, or needing to go to your place of work. You will be greeted by a Transcord officer who will explain our services and if suitable, register you which will take approximately 20 min and have you promptly on your way. Registering is easy just contact Transcord direct on 07 5539 3733 option 2 CLIENTS OVER 65 YEARS Our valued overs 65 years who are registered with MY AGED CARE 1800 200 422 can access our funded rate enjoying all the benefits on offer. Those people who do not wish to access My Aged Care, can be offered a competitive rate. My Aged Care will send your referral through to Transcord via their portal. One of our client intake officers will contact you and obtain the necessary information to register you. NDIS approved clients can also access our service and be assured of professional and quality care. BOOKING DEPARTMENT Now You Would Like To Book For Your Next Appointment Transcord offers services to hospital, medical appointments, social outings including monthly trips, or coffee catch ups. All bookings including social activities are made the same way. Ring 07 55393733 option 1…social outings option 6. Once our friendly staff have taken your booking, we ask that you ring from 2pm-4pm the day before to confirm your pick up time, we require 4 days notice to ensure your appointment time is met. SCHEDULING DEPARTMENT This part is critical as when bookings are completed they are sent to the scheduler. They work with 17-20 drivers depending on the days bookings. The scheduling team could be scheduling approximately 220-270 clients. Each designated driver receives their run sheet the night before which highlights the client details of pickup, also relevant details to be noted regarding the clients health issues. TRANSCORD DRIVERS On receiving their run sheet, drivers makes notes regarding their days run to ensure all client needs are met and clients are safely returned home after their appointment. Some drivers are up early morning picking up dialysis clients, working through a busy and often tight schedule whether rain, hail or shine. LET US HELP YOU BE ACTIVE IN THE COMMUNITY PHONE (07) 5539 3733 www.transcord.com.au
8 Research shows that 80% of older Australians prefer to age in the comfort of their own home rather than an aged care facility. We all want what is best for our ageing loved ones, and to respect their preferences, and at Home Care Assistance Gold Coast we exist to help make this preference a reality. The idea of having Care Workers in the home for some people might impact their feelings of independence, making it more challenging as they are resistant to the idea. At Home Care Assistance Gold Coast, we understand this challenge, and can provide you with strategies to address the underlying concerns or fears and therefore help make the transition to receiving support easier for everyone. When is the right time for home care? It is not often easy to determine exactly when your loved one requires additional support to live well at home. There are times when it can be more apparent, for example following an accident or injury, or on return home from hospital, but at other times the indicators may not be as obvious. Things like changes in eating habits, signs of memory loss, changes to energy levels or difficulty taking part in day-to-day activities can all be signs that extra assistance could be of value. Home care funding options Care for your loved ones in the home can simply be paid for outright, but there are also full or partial funding options accessible through the government such as Home Care Packages, the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) and Carer Gateway respite. We can support you in your exploration of these options. Paying Privately The simplest method, and a good option when urgent care is required, is simply to pay privately in full. This timely option is also great when the care need is short term, or you simply wish to keep things simple and straight forward, without involving applications and processes for seeking funding support. Should this be your preference, we offer Respecting our ageing loved ones competitive hourly rates for home care services. Home Care Packages Home Care Packages are government funded subsidies for individualised home care services. As they are personalised to everyone, they can cover everything from gardening and cooking support to more complex services requiring a co-ordinated approach such as personal care or wound care. For those on an aged pension, these packages can be fully subsidised, so there is no out of pocket cost. Let us help you Home Care Assistance Gold Coast can help. Call Our Team today on 5528 1643 for your complimentary in-home assessment. See advert page 9 Present two amazing tours! FOR MORE INFORMATION & BOOKINGS PHONE JENNY 1300 794 373 jenny@currumbinvalleycoaches.com.au www.currumbinvalleycoaches.com.au LIGHTNING RIDGE 28 March - 3 April 2024 • Home pick up and Drop Offs • Comfortable coach travel with two Coach Captains • Quality Accommodation and Cooked Breakfasts • All 2 Course Dinners • 6 Lunches (except day 3) and Morning and afternoon tea as per itinerary • All entry fees and guided tours Experience all that Lightning Ridge and surrounding areas has to offer ... $2400PP Twin Share * $450 Single Supplement - Limited availability • Wine tasting experience, 2 Hour Guided Town Tour, Group Guided Farm Tour at Ricardoes Tomatoes & Strawberries, Afternoon tea river cruise, Roto House, Koala Hospital, Port City Bowling Club, Sea Acres Rainforest Centre C.ex Coffs, Slim Dusty Centre • Luxury Coach travel • 3 night’s motel accommodation PORT MACQUARIE GETAWAY 7 - 10 MAY, 2024 ~ 4 DAYS $1250PP Twin Share * $308 Single Supplement The adoption sale is valid from 8th February 2024 to 14th February 2024, inclusive. The reduced adoption fees apply exclusively to specific cats and dogs that are part of the adoption sale. Other animals are excluded from this offer. Availability is subject to change without notice. BEENLEIGH | GOLD COAST | IPSWICH | WARRA | WILLAWONG Valentine’s Adoption Sale 8th - 14th Feb
9 What is a Home Care Package? A Home Care Package provides Government funded services that can help you remain at home for longer, as well as providing choice and flexibility in the way that the care and support is provided. What services can you access under home care packages? Call today (07) 5528 1643 or visit homecareassistancegoldcoast.com.au 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 Home Care Packages We help you stay home, stay connected and stay in charge. • 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 with needed. • Cleaning and Maintaining the Home Washing windows, clearing gutters & other services as needed. • Medication Prompting Ensuring the right medication is taken at the right time. • Laundry Washing, drying, ironing and organising. • Pet Care Walks, feeding and other care to keep your pet happy and well. • Gardening Keep your garden beautiful with weeding, lawn mowing, pruning. • 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. Eligibility - Home Care Packages Home Care Packages are open to seniors over 65 years of age, or over 50 years for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, who need: • Ongoing services • Multiple services, eg: personal care, gardening, light housekeeping, etc. • High Level Support such as complex nursing care Local Home Care Provider To get approved for services you need to register with the Government’s My Aged Care. If you phone us on 55281643 we can complete a referral to My Aged Care to get the process started. Our Passion, Our Dedication for caring for the most vulnerable... Home Care Assistance is CHANGING the WAY the WORLD AGES.
10 • Implant Dentures • Health Funds & Veterans Affairs • Precision Dentures • Mouthguards/Splints • Same Day Repairs & Relines Shop 40/1 Mudgeeraba Rd, Worongary Town Centre 5/26-28 Commerce Drive, Robina TWO LOCATIONS Worongary & Robina 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 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. source: www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-health-dentures
11 Homeworld Helensvale 5502 7227 Tweed Mall 0414 570 839 Logan Hyperdome 0438 997 250 FANTASTIC DEALS FEBRUARY Adjustable Beds & Mattresses Hot prices in store! Bedroom Furniture Priced to Sell! The Adjustable Bed Experts
12 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. Minimum order $55 (excl delivery of $8.50) 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 Embracing the support of NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) in your daily living opens a world of possibilities, and at Gourmet Meals, we are here to make every meal an experience of comfort, nutrition, and ease. As a NDIS-approved provider, Gourmet Meals operates under Core Support, Assistance with Daily Living, and Household Tasks, specifically Line items 01_022_0120_1_1 or Line item 01_023_0120_1_1. This means that 70% of the order cost is invoiced under the participant’s plan to cover our delivery, preparation, and packaging costs. The remaining 30% of the food cost is covered by the participant via MasterCard/Visa over the phone or online when ordering, ensuring financial flexibility. If this payment method is not suitable, please contact us to discuss other options. Gourmet Meals is not just a meal solution; it’s a healthy Nourishing Independence: Gourmet Meals, NDIS approved provider option designed for individuals living with disabilities in the South-East Queensland region. Whether your goal is to eat healthier, or you face challenges in cooking, or you are time-poor, we’re here to support you. As an approved NDIS provider of home-delivered meals, we understand the unique dietary needs that come with different disabilities and health requirements. Our commitment goes beyond providing nutritious, readymade meals; we’re here to empower NDIS participants with choices that respect their dietary preferences and requirements, foster independence, and enhance overall well-being. Dive into a world where quality, accessibility, and taste coalesce, designed explicitly with you in mind. Contact Gourmet Meals on 1300 112 112 or visit our website at https://gourmetmeals.com.au. Common Words 105 GARDEN + + HEAD = 3 LETTERS DOUBLE + _ _ _ STOP + + ON = 5 LETTERS PRINTING + _ _ _ _ _ BROOM + + LOVE = 8 LETTERS + SPACE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 3 LETTERS + + 5 LETTERS + 8 LETTERS = _ _ _ _ _ 5 LETTERS Answer to Common Words 104 SHOW, BOX, MEAL = LIGHT Word Puzzle 105 Collective Noun Quiz Two Way Quiz Find a four letter word that will fit in all of these to complete another word. Answer next issue. Answer to Word Puzzle 104 ROUT _ _ _ _RAY _ _ _ _ABLE _ _ _ _ENT RE_ _ _ _ DE_ _ _ _ED RAP_ _ _ _ S_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ION 1. Ambush 2. Array 3. Bale 4. Barrell 5. Barren 6. Bask 7. Battery 8. Bew 9. Bloat 10. Bob What animals, birds or fish do these collective nouns apply to. Answers page 31. Name the countries which these are the capital of: Answers page 31. 1. Nassau 2. Manama 3. Dhaka 4. Bridgetown 5. Minsk 6. Brussels 7. Belmopan 8. Porto-Novo 9. Thimphu 10. La Paz Find the word held in common by the three words. Then using the three words find a word that is common to them.
13 GOT LOOSE, PEAKING OR CRACKED TILES? 0414 446 579 CALL DAN FOR A FREE QUOTE Internal & External Patio Floor Pool Coping Bathroom Wall & Floor Splashback TILES WE CAN FIX Service & Product Warranty 10 YEARS Australian Standards Tested 25 YEARS Proven Track Record 30+ YEARS BEFORE AFTER GOLD COAST OFFICE 07 5646 6344 Antique Buyers in the Gold Coast Area With Covid having forced us to spend plenty of time at home, many of us have taken to sorting our drawers and cupboards. Now is a fantastic opportunity to turn those unwanted items into cash. “We are keen buyers, especially of the items listed on our advert (see back page). Everyone has something we want to buy, and nothing is too small for our consideration. We are just as happy to buy one item, as we are buying 10,000!”, says Mike Cornish, chief buyer for the company. The buyers will be in a convenient location in the area very soon (see back page). If you are in doubt about any items you wish to sell, take them in for an instant appraisal. Especially wanted by the buyers are any gold jewellery items, broken or not, antique jewellery, collectables such as military medals, old coins and banknotes, and mechanical watches. Gold and Silver still at high prices With the gold price still at higher than traditional levels, right now would be an opportune time to go through the jewellery box and dig out those old gold chains, rings and brooches and turn them into cash. Mike says, “Now is a great time to sell. We will buy anything made of gold – old jewellery, coins, virtually anything, even gold teeth! We also need silver in any form, including cups, cutlery, old coins, even teapots and the like.” Old coins can toss up a rarity Check those drawers and cupboards, you may have a rarity lurking amongst your coins. “We want to see any old foreign coin accumulations. We will be quite happy to go through your coins on the spot and give you an idea of what we can pay. You just never know what can turn up!” Rolex and mechanical watches wanted Mechanical watches are needed urgently by the buyers. “Collectors at this stage want brands such as Rolex, Omega, Patek Philippe, Tag Heuer, and Longines, just to mention some. These brands can command good prices depending on the condition and model. In any event we will buy any mechanical watch, even if it’s only a few dollars for parts,” says Mike. “If you are unsure, bring any watches to us at the venues to have them appraised,” he said. Whilst we have a Covid safe environment at the venues, we also offer home visits for those unable to come to us. See our advert for home visit slots and get in touch to book yours in. See advertisement back page for details >
14 Cherri International / After Dark Digital, Security & Offset Printing celebrate 31 years of self employment on the Gold Coast, last April;. “Looking after Locals”. Compact Disc / DVD The first commercial compact disc was produced on 17 August 1982. DVD (an abbreviation of “digital versatile disc” or “digital video disc”) is a digital optical disc storage format invented and developed by Philips, Sony, Toshiba, and Panasonic in 1995. The world’s first DVD player was the Toshiba SD-3000, launched in November 1996. The first DVD players and discs were made available in November 1996 in Japan, March 1997 in the United States, 1998 in Europe and in 1999 in Australia. (12cm or 120mm International size). The Compact Disc and DVD although incredibly robust can be damaged by the oil from a human finger. After the surface is touched, an oxidization process begins, and generally within a year, the disc is discarded. DVD Drives are readily available with some laptop computers, AIO (All in One) and there are excellent portable drive to select from. The standard Compact Disc will hold 700 Megabytes and the DVD 4.7 Gigabytes (a standard Movie) of data respectively. There are two main classes of CD / DVD. ROM (Read Only Memory) and DVD R/W (Read & Write). (Blank Disc and Recorded on a Computer DVD Burner). “Burning” of your data, photos or video to a DVD is a safe, cheap and reliable storage medium. DVD Drives are available in various speeds. The original hardware speed was 2 x. Recording speed progressively increased over the years to 60x. Nearly all laptop computers have a 24 x DVD R/W (Reading & Writing) speed. Care must be taken if recording a DVD at a faster speed, as the slower DVD player may not recognise the disc. We recommend to record (burn) all DVDs at 8 x or 16 x, thus allowing compatibility with both a laptop and a desktop computer. Please call Mark on (07) 5537 8382 if unsure. Generally the software included with the DVD drive, such as Nero Express, is excellent, and will allow you to copy and produce most common disc types. Playing a modern DVD movie or music CD on very old equipment with limited RAM and Processor speed, may result in poor quality and interruptions. This is called “buffer underrun”. When choosing a CD or DVD, select by laser image. Turn the disc upside down, and then turn it into the light. A laser rainbow image will appear. The sharper the laser image, the higher the quality of the CD or DVD disc. Cherri International are giving a copy of Trend Micro Maximum Security 2024 (2PC/Mac/iOS/Android Licence) with all laptops and PCs supplied (valued at $77.00). This includes the latest in Ransomware protection. Please mention this fine “Over 50s” Newsletter. Talk to Mark at Cherri International and we will show you how to keep your PC running at optimum performance, including virus protection. We offer “one on one” tutorial for those who wish to learn computers properly. Cherri International will train beginners to advanced. © www.cherricomputers.com Email: mark@cherricomputers.com PH: (07) 5537 8382 / 0416 365 859 Cherri International would like to thank the readers of Especially for Over 50s for their business and also the ongoing referrals. Mark’s monthly computer tips RUNAWAY BAY HAS MOVED to 7 GATEWAY DRIVE, BIGGERA WATERS sales • hire • repair • service Come in and see our new expanded product range • mobility scooters • power chairs • wheel chairs • walkers • crutches & canes • lift chairs • walking frames • knee walkers 5500 6245 scootersandmobility.com.au • daily living aids • beds & mattresses • pillows & cushions • bathroom & hygiene • patient handling • pressure care • bariatric • rehabilitation 7 GATEWAY DRIVE, BIGGERA WATERS
15 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 30 year’s experience as a qualified Optical technician and has been The importance of regular eye checks working in the area for 23 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 Fresh Year, Fresh Health Coverage! The majority of health fund yearly limits refresh every January 1st. Schedule your eye examination today and upgrade your eyeglasses!
16 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 As well as the destruction and damage of homes and businesses, the last weeks of tremendous storms have also devastated areas of natural vegetation. Everyone in horticulture, conservation and the garden media recognise the challenges ahead in gardens and natural areas, and many are involved in clean-ups and providing support for some of those affected. The heat and humidity have been intense. Even the smallest of gardens can help reduce the effects of the sun! On the hottest of days, we all head for the shade. Some of the loveliest of small trees are in flower now and a trip to Brisbane or the older suburbs of the Gold Coast will see mature Crepe Myrtles in bloom. Many that grow in Brisbane’s parks including New Farm and the City Botanic Gardens are a legacy of Harry Oakman (1906-2002) Director of Brisbane City Parks from 1947- 1963. He was also a prolific author and champion of gardens and trees for South East Queensland. The delicate mauve form is close to a century old and grows in a heritage garden on the Gold Coast. Lagerstroemia indica is one of around fifty species of Crepe Myrtle from sub-tropical climates, first introduced to Australia in Sydney in 1836 and then available to the public through Camden Park Nursery Catalogues in 1843. It is a delightful tree, with special forms available for many years and recent cultivated forms allowing for the selection of mature tree size and flower colour. There are also dwarf forms and ground covers. And an Australian native species Lagerstroemia archeriana from the Rockhampton region which is equally delightful. The panicles of individual flowers, each 6 – 10cm across are from white to soft mauve or brilliant hot pinks develop along branch tips. Moderate pruning through the short deciduous winter period will encourage more branches and thus more flowers. Not to be outdone by the brilliant flowers, the bare winter trunks are equally beautiful with smooth mottled trunks. Crepe Myrtles require an open full sun position, and are not too fussy about soil types but the moist humid conditions may cause some mildew problems on foliage. They are in flower now at the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens. The effects of the sun can be alleviated with careful planning and planting. Even a group of large pots planted with trees offers respite in a small courtyard. It’s not only the shade offered, but also the cooling effect as hot air passes through the leaves and moisture evaporates into the atmosphere. Stay safe in the heat and the storms... Kate Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens, Rosser Park, 232 Ashmore Rd, Benowa Visit www.friendsgcrbg.org.au or www.facebook.com/friendsgcrbg Gardening by Kate Heffernan Honorary Life Member Friends of GCRBG, Botanic Garden Consultant Lagerstroemia indica Lagerstroemia indica
17 PLUS FREE ENTERTAINMENT Are you tired of drawing on your eyebrows?? Or have trouble seeing to put your eyeliner on?? 6a/5 Michigan Drive, Medical Centre Oxenford H 10% DISCOUNT with this ad Beauty on Michigan 5561 7944 Book your Cosmetic Tattooing... BOOK NOW Walk (or roll) to raise awareness for Motor Neurone Disease! Sunday, 10 March 2024 - 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM Gather your family, friends, colleagues and the dog to walk or roll 2km or 4km along the scenic beachside path from Hollindale Park to The Spit return and help raise vital funds and increase awareness for Motor Neurone Disease. Register your team and start fundraising. (https://www.mndaq.org.au/events/tickets/68/goldcoast) Upon arrival, receive a ‘Walk to Defeat MND’ t-shirt to draw awareness to the cause while walking or rolling. Proceeds from this family-friendly and inclusive fundraising event will help support Queenslanders living with MND! Follow our Walk to Defeat MND Facebook page for the latest updates www.facebook.com/Walk2DFeetMNDQld About the event - • This is not a race. Enjoy a walk at your own pace. • This event has been designed to be wheelchair and stroller-friendly. • Fundraise, get dressed up, and get into the spirit, as all these things will be rewarded on the day at our Awards Ceremony. • Dogs are welcome! Dress them up to enter the Best Dressed Dog Award. Please keep them on a leash and clean up after them. • Food and beverages will be available at the event. Please bring cash and coins for donations. • There will be merchandise available on the day and a r.a.f.f.l.e (tickets can be purchased for $5 each or 3 for $10) for a chance to win some great prizes. Cash or card payments are welcome. • Parking is available along MacArthur Parade and in front of The Pavilion along the beachfront. We suggest you get here early to allow ample time to find a legal park. There is also a drop-off location and accessible parking in front of the pavilion.
18 Answer to Crossword No. 104 from last issue Answer to Cryptic Xword No. 104 from last issue Answer to Sudoku No. 104 from last issue CRYPTIC 105 Answer next 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 a $50 WISH Card. Entries close 29.02.2024. Winner notified by mail. (Can be used at Woolworths Supermarkets, selected Ampol Woolworths, Big W, BWS, Dan Murphy’s, Cellarmasters) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 ACROSS 1. Does the Scottish Bishop cook on this? (6) 7. The governing bodies wrote some of the book. (8) 8. Walk a little and inside find a base. (6) 9. Stepping out and biking on the road. (8) 10. Spikes caused by sirens on the junction. (6) 11. It is non compulsory that I too plan moving. (8) 14. Loathing that dates sit rotting. (8) 18. Quietening a communist while divided. (6) 19. Flutters around just before 1000 households. (8) 21. The brood makes a mess. (6) 22. Crux of the crucial gem. (8) 23. Currency found on the road at the seashore. (6) DOWN 1. Rabbited on but quietly upset. (8) 2. The time agreed upon was inadequate. (6) 3. Over a hundred ships otherwise surrounded by the secret service clippers.(8) 4. A den for the French Inland Revenue. (4) 5. I circle behind the hunk in the workplace. (6) 6. The head dashed into the intelligence branch. (6) 12. Supports for the French behind the locks. (8) 13. Put a hole in and took off around the snake. (8) 15. I am a long time finding the reproductions. (6) 16. His set works for the large mining company. (6) 17. The substance was of importance. (6) 20. I mislead the legend. (4) 2 3 4 9 11 12 13 15 16 20 21 23 1 8 10 14 22 5 6 7 17 18 19 C R E D I T M S C R R O V E R T U R E E N T A I L A A E A G L I T E R A T E T H R O N G E I I N A B A N D O N S O T T T NASTI EST E O B I I N S T E P C O N T R A S T C P U L I U T O P I A U N H E E D E D R G D S S E N T R E E 9 11 13 19 24 26 5 1 8 10 12 14 15 16 17 18 20 21 22 23 25 27 2 3 4 6 7 M C C P C H E R I S H E D S H O R E H X S O R H M N I N T E S T I N E O P E R A R R P C A N D N E R A S E E N D E A R I N G M N E A A S U N D E R D E R A N G E M E E X S A B O T A G E S V I S I T H R A L I E H R E R E C T I N T E R C E D E R L L T D O S B M R E L A Y E N U M E R A T E Y A T D 6 1 3 2 7 9 5 8 4 5 7 2 8 3 4 1 9 6 9 4 8 5 6 1 2 7 3 7 8 6 9 5 3 4 1 2 4 9 5 6 1 2 7 3 8 3 2 1 4 8 7 6 5 9 8 3 4 1 2 5 9 6 7 1 6 9 7 4 8 3 2 5 2 5 7 3 6 9 8 4 1 An Englishman inherits a blue and green budgie from his brother’s estate. He brings it home, and after removing its cage cover, the bird begins to talk, “I’m a Gleisga Budgie an’ am hard as nails! It keeps repeating this mantra ad nauseam till it’s new owner is so fed up with hearing it, he goes out and buys a Kestrel and puts in the cage with the Budgie. Next morning the Kestrel’s dead, the Budgie swinging on it’s perch says, “I’m a Gleisga Budgie an’ am hard as nails!” The next day the man buys a Buzzard and puts it in the cage with the Budgie. Next morning the Buzzard’s dead, and the Budgie is swinging on its perch, and saying, “I’m a Gleisga Budgie an’ am hard as nails!” Next day the man buys a Golden Eagle and puts it in the cage with the Budgie, and sure enough, next morning the Golden Eagle is dead and the Budgie is sitting on its perch featherless. The man asks, “What happened here? and the Budgie replies, “a had to take my jacket off ta deal with that one!” Win a $50 WISH Card
19 Navigating Driving Challenges: Age, Disability, and the Need for Constant Upskilling Driving is a dynamic skill that demands a constant adaptation to accommodate various life stages and social changes. This adaptation becomes particularly crucial when addressing the specific needs of senior drivers, individuals with disabilities, and the general driving population's need to stay abreast with evolving road conditions and regulations. The Role of Age Assessment as individuals age, driving abilities can change due to various factors like reflexes, vision, and health conditions. Regular age assessments for senior drivers are vital. These assessments help determine whether adjustments are needed to ensure the safety of all road users. They guide seniors on how to adapt their driving habits, suggest vehicle modifications for comfort and safety, and can even offer insights into alternative transportation options if needed. Driving with Disabilities represents independence, but for individuals with disabilities, it involves overcoming unique challenges. Customised driving instruction is vital in this context. It involves adapting vehicles with special modifications, like hand controls or wheelchair accessibility, and employing teaching methods tailored to each individual’s needs. This specialised approach empowers people with disabilities to gain confidence in their driving abilities, ensuring they can navigate the roads safely and independently. Keeping Up with Modern Driving. In an era where technology is rapidly advancing, upskilling in driving is essential for all. New vehicle technologies, updated road laws, and changing traffic conditions require even experienced drivers to periodically update their skills. Upskilling lessons are designed to keep drivers informed and confident, ensuring they are equipped to handle the demands of modern driving and maintain road safety. In response to these diverse needs, Spotto Driving School on the Gold Coast offers tailored programs encompassing age assessment, disability driving instruction, and upskilling. Spotto’s commitment to adapting its teaching to suit each learner’s needs reinforces the importance of accessible and lifelong driving education. With a focus on safety, independence, and staying current, Spotto Driving School ensures that every individual is equipped to face the road with confidence, regardless of their age or ability. Welcome to For Enquiries and Bookings phone 0417 855 512 0417 855 512 SPOTTO DRIVING SCHOOL We offer tailored programs encompassing P Age Assessment P Disability Driving Instruction P Neuro Diversity P Upskilling Your path to safe, confident driving begins here Let’s hit the road together! One-Off or Package Lessons Gift Vouchers Available SPOTTO DRIVING SCHOOL GOLD COAST Book now 5539 4255 or online www.spotlighttheatre.com.au 185 - 187 Ashmore Road, Benowa Bookings: www.javeenbah.org.au Phone 0417 004 466 • Email info@javeenbah.org.au CNR STEVENS & FERRY STREETS, NERANG Tickets available 5532 2096 www.gclt.com.au 21A Scarborough St, Southport
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